HAYDEN, Idaho — Three Hayden residents were recognized for their contributions to the community during the Oct. 27 City Council meeting, where Mayor Alan Davis also proclaimed Nov. 1, 2026, as Extra Mile Day.
Judy Eichelberger, Joy Richards and John Young received Extra Mile Hero recognition for their years of volunteerism, civic involvement and service to the city.
Councilmember Tom Shafer read the acknowledgments detailing each recipient's contributions as Davis presented the recognitions and posed for photographs with the honorees.
Extra Mile Day is an annual observance held Nov. 1 that encourages communities to recognize individuals whose volunteerism and service make a positive difference.
The observance is associated with Extra Mile America, an initiative founded by motivational author Shawn Anderson. The organization encourages individuals and communities to create positive change through personal effort, service and a willingness to do more than expected. Hayden participates in the recognition annually, according to Davis.
More information about Extra Mile America is available at https://extramileamerica.org/about/.
Three residents recognized
Judy Eichelberger was recognized for her work preserving and sharing Hayden’s history.
An author, historian, educator and editor, Eichelberger has contributed to the Hayden Lake newsletter and Discovery magazine, promoted local history among students and helped publish the city’s first historic preservation commission book.
Davis cited her efforts to educate younger generations and encourage community participation as reasons for her recognition.
Joy Richards was honored for her longtime involvement in civic activities and community initiatives.
Davis credited Richards with supporting Hayden events and volunteer programs that encourage public participation.
Richards also serves on the Hayden Urban Renewal Agency, where she contributes to projects intended to support local businesses and economic development.
The mayor recognized her continued dedication to civic involvement and public service.
John Young was recognized for his contributions to Hayden’s economic development and municipal planning.
Young serves on the city’s Development Impact Fee Advisory Committee, where his professional experience and technical knowledge contribute to discussions about infrastructure funding and future development.
He previously served on the Hayden Urban Renewal Agency, participating in projects aimed at supporting the city’s business community.
Davis credited Young’s years of service and technical expertise with helping shape Hayden’s development.
November 1 proclaimed Extra Mile Day
Following the recognition ceremony, Davis formally proclaimed Nov. 1 as Extra Mile Day in Hayden.
The proclamation encourages residents to recognize those who contribute their time and efforts to improving the lives of others.
In the proclamation, Davis called on residents to recognize people who inspire others through service to their communities, the nation and the world.
The observance emphasizes the contributions of residents who volunteer, participate in civic activities and support community initiatives.
The three honorees were recognized at the beginning of the Oct. 27 meeting, with the formal proclamation delivered later in the meeting.
PUBLIC RESOURCES
City of Hayden
Extra Mile Day proclamation Oct. 27, 2026 City Council Agenda
City Council Meeting Oct. 27, 2026 (1:19:28)
Hayden Reporter
Extra Mile Hero Presentation & Proclamation edited meeting excerpt (4:52)
Mayor Alan Davis Extra Mile Day Proclamation meeting excerpt (41 seconds)
