JACKSON HOLE, WYO – The first honor of this month’s Rotary award luncheon went to a member of the Rotary Club of Jackson Hole: Bruce Bollinger. He was recognized for his giving commitment to Rotary’s international foundation which supports the humanitarian service work of Rotary worldwide, including the fight against polio. Bollinger was inducted into the “White Hat Society” for giving $5,000 in one year to the Rotary Foundation.
Paul Cucchiarelli, co-owner of Hand Fire Pizza, received the Citizen of the Month award for the way his business gives back to the community. Every Tuesday night, Hand Fire hosts “Pizza with a Purpose,” featuring a nonprofit which receives part of the proceeds.
Three students were also honored at the April luncheon.
The student of the month from Jackson Hole High School was Annalise Zabriskie, with an impressive academic record including two AP math classes her senior year. Zabriskie serves as student body president, secretary of Key Club, is a Rotary Interact member, and is the captain of the varsity hockey team.
Sal Ponce-Ramirez, Student of the Month from Summit High School was introduced by Principal Beth Auge as a musician who plays three instruments and has a winning sense of humor. He told a powerful story of his struggles in high school and finding community and hope at Summit High School. He reflected that he now finds himself writing poems “of hope and optimism and love” rather than about sad things.
Journeys School presents a “Student of the Season” every fall and spring. The student honored this season was Avery Absolon. She spoke about finding more confidence in herself and her passions, and deciding to be at Journeys while many of her friends went to a different school. Her love of dance, embrace of adventure, and being willing to try new things were highlighted by Head of School Nancy Lang.
