'It’s never too late to dream'

COEUR d’ALENE — Amy D’Orazi wasn’t acting when, more than once, she wiped away tears Wednesday.

But even then, she managed to smile and radiate joy.

“I am so honored to be here,” she said to about 150 people at the 27th annual Mayor’s Awards in the Arts. “I’m shocked, quite honestly, to be receiving this award.”

D’Orazi accepted the Excellence in the Arts award, which highlighted a night of music, accolades and speeches during a celebration of art at the Hagadone Event Center.

Chuck Ethridge of the Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre said it was a pleasure to be among such a talented group.

“You guys ignite my soul,” he said.

Several awards were presented.

The Lifetime Achievement award was given posthumously to Roberta Larsen, who died in August at the age of 87. She was praised for her many contributions to the art community.

The Student Excellence in the Arts went to Josalyn Benak of Lake City High School, who thanked her teachers and mentors.

“Every time I create something I think of you because I like to imagine showing you my work," she said, "hoping it makes you happy."

Support of the Arts went to David and Susan Denton, who have donated financially to many local art organizations.

David Denton said when he met Susan he knew little about the arts. He does today, and their home contains an eclectic collection.

He praised artists and the people behind the scenes who make it all happen.

"It’s amazing what they do for the community," David Denton said.

Sue Denton said art brings her joy.

"The arts elevate us. They elevate us above the mundane, above the ugly, above the politics," she said.

Nick Thorpe, who grew up in the Silver Valley, received the Arts in Education award.

He is a music director with Carnival Cruise lines and has been a performer, arranger, producer, director for the past 25 years. He has worked with Aspire Community Theatre and Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre.

Thorpe said personal connections are important and shared a story of lives changed “because somebody cared.”

“If you really want to make a difference, support our community,” he said.

D’Orazi has been involved with Aspire and Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre and has had a number of lead roles in the region. She is a singer, accomplished painter and a beloved preschool and kindergarten teacher.

Master of Ceremonies Stephen Shortridge said D’Orazi has a vibrant quality on stage and those who have seen her perform, “cannot keep their eyes off her."

D'Orzai said she grew up a dreamer, introduced to great artists by her father. She said she learned young to observe and express life through music.

She said teaching children has given her an opportunity to share her love of art.

“Children and art are truly the gifts that keep on giving,” she said.

D'Orazi thanked family and friends for their support.

“I feel so blessed,” she said.

In her acceptance speech, D’Orazi said her hope is to leave a trail of creativity wherever she goes and to do her best to inspire young minds.

“And remind everybody that it’s never too late to dream, never too late to take risks or try something new, never too late to grow,” she said. “To seek and take risks, that is what it means to be truly alive.”