2008 Woodie Awards
Sen. Edgar Malepeai honored as Pi Sigma Alpha's "Statesman of the Year"
Ryan Hunter
Issue date: 4/25/07 Section: News
"[Sen. Malepeai] embodies the best of a statesman's characteristics: vision, courage, experience, and pragmatism," said Vailas. "He not only is a leader, but nurtures leadership in others. [This award] is a great honor to a great leader and friend."
Grace Owens, who teaches at Highland High School alongside Malepeai, spoke of him as a vocal advocate for the voiceless, who "time and again has stood up for all Idahoans." She also mentioned how he constantly has battled legislation and measures which she felt "hurt the spirit" of those in various groups in Idaho, highlighting his stalwart opposition to attempts at a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage, and also his opposition to a bill that would make English Idaho's official language.
Several of the other speakers, including Bannock County Commissioner Larry Ghan, highlighted Malepeai's "passionate and moving" speech on the floor of the Idaho Senate during the "English only" bill debate as an apt example of Malepeai's character as an elected official.
"[Malepeai] is one of the few that practices the odd and unique art of 'good government,'" said Ghan.
Ian Malepeai, Sen. Malepeai's son, reiterated this sentiment, highlighting his father's proactive approach in politics.
"He's never been one to be caught in complaining," said Ian of his father. "Instead he's always the one to come to the table with solutions to problems."
Sen. Malepeai thanked everyone in attendance for their support and friendship, stating with overwhelming humility that without them, he wouldn't be where he is today.
"Whether you know it or not, every one of you has impacted my family and me in a positive way, and for that I thank you," said Malepeai.
Prof. Adler concluded the evening with a punctuation mark, stating, "This is by far not the last chapter of your life. We expect great things from you… 'governor' Malepeai!"
The comment was responded to by loud and enthusiastic cheering, bringing up the question of whether it was just a well-intentioned compliment, or an encouragement towards future prospects.
Grace Owens, who teaches at Highland High School alongside Malepeai, spoke of him as a vocal advocate for the voiceless, who "time and again has stood up for all Idahoans." She also mentioned how he constantly has battled legislation and measures which she felt "hurt the spirit" of those in various groups in Idaho, highlighting his stalwart opposition to attempts at a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage, and also his opposition to a bill that would make English Idaho's official language.
Several of the other speakers, including Bannock County Commissioner Larry Ghan, highlighted Malepeai's "passionate and moving" speech on the floor of the Idaho Senate during the "English only" bill debate as an apt example of Malepeai's character as an elected official.
"[Malepeai] is one of the few that practices the odd and unique art of 'good government,'" said Ghan.
Ian Malepeai, Sen. Malepeai's son, reiterated this sentiment, highlighting his father's proactive approach in politics.
"He's never been one to be caught in complaining," said Ian of his father. "Instead he's always the one to come to the table with solutions to problems."
Sen. Malepeai thanked everyone in attendance for their support and friendship, stating with overwhelming humility that without them, he wouldn't be where he is today.
"Whether you know it or not, every one of you has impacted my family and me in a positive way, and for that I thank you," said Malepeai.
Prof. Adler concluded the evening with a punctuation mark, stating, "This is by far not the last chapter of your life. We expect great things from you… 'governor' Malepeai!"
The comment was responded to by loud and enthusiastic cheering, bringing up the question of whether it was just a well-intentioned compliment, or an encouragement towards future prospects.
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