Barbara Morgan, Lori Otter Help Launch

Astronaut Barbara Morgan joined Idaho's First Lady Lori Otter and other dignitaries to launch the statewide "Be Outside" initiative Friday, January 30. The "Be Outside" campaign is an effort to connect Idaho's children with nature. The initiative was developed by the Idaho Children and Nature Network -a coalition of government agencies, organizations, private businesses, medical professionals and Idaho residents. Lori Otter read a statement from Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter, proclaiming 2009 the Year of "Be Outside" - Idaho Children in Nature. Morgan, retired NASA astronaut and distinguished educator-in-residence at Boise State University, spoke of the wonder of nature, such as when in the space shuttle Endeavor pulled away from the International Space Station. The astronauts turned off all the lights in the cabin so they could marvel at the spectacle of stars. Marty Schimpf, Boise State University Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and A.J. Church representing U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo also spoke in support of the effort to reconnect children with nature and the outdoors.