Soroptimist of Cd'A to honor seven women at awards luncheon

COEUR d’ALENE — For more than 30 years, Soroptimist International of Coeur d'Alene has honored the accomplishments of local women in their fields of interest and work and for their dedication to serving others.

On Nov. 18, seven women will be recognized for their talent and hard work during the 34th annual Women of Distinction Awards Luncheon at Cedars Floating Restaurant in Coeur d'Alene.

"They’re caught off-guard by the honor, but are always so deserving of the award,” said event chair Angie Lemmerman. "It's incredible that we're able to repeatedly find the women of the caliber that are honored at this event."

This year's guest speaker is Michele Sandberg, coordinator of the Qualified Worker Retraining Program of North Idaho College's Workforce Training Center and Community Education.

"Michele brings experience with the women who are re-entering the workforce or education through the Workforce Training Center," Lemmerman said. "They train women on soft skills and things that help them become more rounded."

This year's seven winners are:

Arts and Culture Award: Ali Shute, with the CDA Arts Alliance, for excelling in the creation or support of the arts and culture.

Business and Professional Award: Cheryl Hunter, with Pioneer Title, for her work in the community and in her profession.

Community Service Award: Linda Pederson, with Cancer and Community Charities (3Cs), for her years of service to a nonprofit organization.

Education Award: Kathy Sells, with Holy Family Catholic School, for her work in the public or private education field.

Health Award: Dr. Leanne Rousseau, of Heritage Health, for her contribution to local medicine.

Public Service Award: Jessie Morrow, with Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, for her work in the public sector.

Senior Award: Tina Gospodnetich for her years of volunteer work in Coeur d’Alene and for her current work with the Coeur d'Alene Youth Marimba Band.

"Most of these women are pretty connected," Lemmerman said. "They're known in their community as givers."

The Women of Distinction Awards Luncheon program begins at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $25 each and a portion of the proceeds will benefit local women and children. The event will also feature a raffle.

RSVP is requested by the end of the day Monday. RSVP at sicoeurd.alene@soroptimist.net.

Cedars is located at 1514 S. Marina Drive.

Info: www.soroptimistcda.org