Citizens Project Honors Lorne Kramer With Divine Award

Why is Lorne Kramer simply divine? More than 200 community leaders gathered last night at the fourth annual Divine Award Celebration to find out. The Divine Award event honors an outstanding individual in the Pikes Peak region and connects community members around the shared values of equality, diversity, religious freedom and civic engagement.

Friends and colleagues recognized former Colorado Springs Police Chief and City Manager Lorne Kramer's many contributions in a David Letterman-style "Top 10 Reasons Why Lorne Kramer is Divine."

"He always did the right thing no matter how unpopular it was," said former City Council member Richard Skorman. He praised Kramer for caring deeply about his employees and for introducing the proposal to grant same-sex partners of city employees equal access to spousal benefits. The policy was adopted in 2003 but only lasted a few months before a newly elected council rescinded them. On the lighter side, City Clerk Cathy Young got hearty laughs from the crowd by revealing Lorne's mischievous side, describing pranks at City Council meetings involving her hydraulic chair. In accepting the award, Kramer said he has seen dramatic changes in our community over the years and feels a greater sense of moderation.

He expressed his gratitude for being able to serve others in his positions with the city and said he believes, "the key to a better community, and a better world, is respect for others regardless of their differences."

Other presenters included: Howard Brooks, Mary Lou Makepeace, Pam Shockley-Zalaback, Cathy Robbins, Will Temby (by proxy), Jody Alyn (by proxy), Pam Jones, and Juliet Draper. Event sponsors were USAA, Memorial Health Systems, Rod & Jennifer Barber, KRCC and the Colorado Springs Independent.

2008 Divine Award recipient Lorne Kramer was recognized for his commitment to collaboration, diversity and equality. As Colorado Springs City Manager (2002-2007), he championed benefits for same-sex partners of City employees and as Police Chief (1990-2001), he promoted diversity within the police force.

Throughout his 44 years of public service, Mr. Kramer received national recognition for many progressive and innovative programs and accomplishments in the areas of crime reduction, gang violence and community partnerships. He has also been recognized by the Colorado Springs City Council and numerous civic organizations for his leadership, collaboration, and community partnership.

"Citizens Project is honored to recognize the myriad accomplishments of former Colorado Springs City Manager Lorne Kramer," said Barb Van Hoy, Citizens Project's Executive Director. "The Divine Award Celebration allows us to honor his efforts and - at the same time - unite community members around a common vision for a more diverse and equitable Colorado Springs."

Citizens may nominate individuals year-round. For more info, please visit www.citizensproject.org.

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