Community Energy Challenge
kickoff celebration photos

 
Ollie the Otter greets Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty upon arrival.


Governor Pawlenty congratulates the community of Rothsay on demonstrating what it means to be energy-saving champions.


Even the young kickoff participants sported their Community Energy Challenge t-shirts for the evening.


Rothsay Mayor Travis Shirley accepted a limited-edition print commemorating Otter Tail Power Company's 100th anniversary from Chuck MacFarlane, Otter Tail Power Company President. Otter Tail Corporation worked with Jeff Hoff, North Dakota artist and 14-year Otter Tail Power Company employee, to create this original wildlife print featuring the river otter.


People around Rothsay recognize the benefits that the Energy Challenge brings to the school and the community.


Bill Glahn, Minnesota Office of Energy Security Executive Director, applauds Rothsay for their commitment to energy savings.


Chris Buckingham, Rothsay City Council, expresses thanks for the opportunity to participate in the Community Energy Challenge.


Rothsay Public Shcool student council president Paige Larson speaks on behalf of the student body, emphasizing its commitment to paying it forward through environmental and social stewardship.


Governor Pawlenty shares a photo opportunity with students.

 

 

 



 


Children were excited about the celebratory atmosphere of the evening. Many received temporary Ollie the Otter tattoos before the program began.


Students show off samples of the Community Energy Challenge t-shirt that all participants received as they walked through the gymnasium doors.


Rothsay Mayor Travis Shirley thanks the community for its commitment to this challenge, and thanks Otter Tail Power Company for this opportunity.


Dr. Mary Donohue Stetz, Rothsay Public School Superintendent/Principal, participates in a radio interview about the goals of the Community Energy Challange.


The Rothsay Public School choir entertained the crowd.


Over 400 people listen to Governor Pawlenty congratulate the city of Rothsay and praise them for their commitment to saving energy.


The Rothsay Senior High School band gets toes tapping in the crowd.


(Above and below) Governor Pawlenty kindly signs autographs for school kids.


This young lady, who was enjoying her free hot dog, kept her eyes on Ollie the Otter the entire evening.