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Farewell from former Gov. Dirk Kempthorne

Idaho state employees:

As I embark on a new chapter of public service in my life, I have a deep appreciation and
respect for each of you and your dedicated service to the citizens of the State of Idaho.

Throughout my two terms as Governor, it has been my great fortune to work with and enjoy the support of so many dedicated public servants. I am proud of what we have accomplished together.

As Idahoans would come to their Statehouse and tour the Governor’s office, one of the items that seemed to always catch their attention was a pair of boxing gloves that I was
fortunate to have signed by legendary champion Mohammad Ali. The inscription reads, “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.”

Your service to the people of Idaho has indeed made this the greatest state in the nation in which to live, It is an honor to have been nominated by President Bush to serve our country as the 49th Secretary of Interior and confirmed by the United States Senate. I have accepted this awesome responsibility knowing the course we have set for Idaho over the past several years will continue to serve the citizens well.

Patricia and I are grateful for the experience of serving as Idaho’s 30th Governor and First
Lady. Thank you for all you mean to us and to the citizens of Idaho. I will always be
of my service with you.

God bless Idaho, and God bless the United States of America.

Sincerely,
DIRK KEMPTHORNE
Governor