At CURE’s 23rd Annual Meeting, the organization honored Governor Mark Dayton with the Gary Kubly Good Government Award. CURE’s Board of Directors selected Governor Dayton because of his commitment to advance clean water goals, primarily through his steadfast support for the Buffer Initiative. CURE members Pat Kubly and former state representative, Andrew Falk, presented the award.
In presenting the award Falk stated, “For 23 years, CURE’s mission has been to focus public awareness on the Minnesota River Basin and to take action to restore and protect the river’s water quality, biological integrity, and natural beauty for all generations. The implementation of a comprehensive buffer policy would be a major step forward for our region, and we are glad that the Governor’s Buffer Initiative has rekindled the conversation.”
The award was accepted on behalf of the governor by CURE founding members Del Wehrspan and former congressman, David Minge.
“The foundation for CURE’s success is the passion and commitment of its members. The awards presented each year at our annual meeting reflect our appreciation for sharing and advancing CURE’s mission. This year’s awards were well deserved,” noted Duane Ninneman, CURE Executive Director.
Over 150 people attended CURE’s Annual Meeting this year at the Maynard Event Center in Maynard, MN. Other award recipients included Lauri Wyum of Montevideo, recognized as CURE Volunteer of the Year. Ken Paulman of Fresh Energy received CURE’s Good Media Award for his work publishing Midwest Energy News. And Sally Finzel of Morning Sky Greenery, a nursery specializing in Minnesota native prairie wildflowers and grasses, accepted the Good Business Award. Sisters Kay and Annette Fernholz of Earthrise Farm were honored as this year’s RiverKeepers.
