News Six companies received carved crystal awards for honesty and reliability in consumer and employee relations during a special event this week at the Boise Centre on The Grove. Recipients were Kevin Burlison, owner of Champion Window Company of Boise; Andy Dodson, a financial adviser for Edward Jones Investments in Nampa; James Latta, chief executive officer of First Bank of Idaho in Ketchum; Life's Kitchen; owners Sam and Angela Beckman of River City Glass and Design, and Crystal and Troy McClain of TCM Productions Inc. "My policy is families first," Burlison said. Employees are the heart and soul of Champion Window, and customers understand and support that, he said. "I just want to say it doesn't make it OK to come in tomorrow and ask for a raise," he joked. The 11th annual awards also included three honorable mentions: Ada Tax Professionals, C&H Group LLC and Mercy Medical Center. "We recognize the achievements of these local businesses, and celebrate the high ethical standards of behavior toward customers, shareholders, employees and the communities in which they do business," said Joel Hickman, Idaho district president of KeyBank, which sponsored the awards. "As we have read the local and national news over the past several months, this is more important now than ever before." The audience of about 500 roared as Life's Kitchen was named. The program transforms troubled teenagers by teaching them culinary arts and life skills. "The very foundation of Life's Kitchen is based on integrity, respect for oneself and for others, caring and social responsibility," said Rouchelle Abrahamson, executive director. She said the program has helped 150 youths in the past few years. "I think it's because we focus on what's right with them, not what's wrong with them," she said. Sandra Forester: 377-6464. |