Kay Merriam

Erin Doyle, Carolyn Purnell and Mary Anne Hoffmann

Pat Bystrom

Dorothy Chatterton, Peggy Anderson and Dorothy Brzek

Bret Gordon

Bea Cowger

Lorraine Wight

Erin Schilk, Sarah Bingham, Coleen Nelson and Jay Bingham

Jan Stanek and Ella Rast

Augusta Scheetz

Bertie North and Kristy Gordon

Gary & Linda Buchli

Dawn Fitzpatrick

Andrew, Corine and Nina Pierce

John & Trudy Saint-Vincent

Karen & Lyle Scow and Meg Downey

Theresa Carter

Teri Henderson, Ann Akers and Glenda Funk

Art Walk: The Merry Month of May

A breezy afternoon with intermittent rain or sunshine mixed with cold air greeted those who ventured out for the May 4, 2012 Art Walk. As per usual, the many participating venues did much to overcome any trepidation about weather.

Taste is very individual; but at this monthly event, a huge range of visual, musical and culinary creations plainly denied that the old adage: “you can’t please everybody.” This Friday had something for everyone!

Over shops, business offices and galleries greeted walkers with a wonderful array of visually interesting and eye-catching pieces. Starting at the Art Center, a judged show containing local pieces adorned the walls and provided something for everyone to ooh and ah about. One startling collection was that of jewelry exhibited by Ann Gaffney, but there were many more eye catching items and also undeniably yummy edible tidbits. Hard to choose!

Other exhibits featured stained glass, posters, custom cards, more jewelry, a fashion show, sculpture, and the work of middle school, high school and ISU students. Remembering that taste is an individual perception, three more exhibits were still, for me, special attention getters

First, Sandra Schow’s “low-relief assemblages” as described in the Art Walk brochure, were full of imagination and deeper meaning, too. She has, over time, developed a complex and often whimsical approach that gives the viewer many moments to enjoy puzzling over the geometry, color, and focus of each. Her pieces were shown at the New Dawn Gallery, a wonderful venue which holds on to a bit of the refined atmosphere of its original use as The People’s Store. Check out the stained glass light fixtures!

Photography offered another compelling group. Tim Frazier’s works showed his accumulated expertise combined with fresh ways of viewing and catching “aha” images. Several other venues treated visitors to differing photographic styles and subjects, all of which were worth seeing.

Finally, Stan Gates’ Fine Art Gallery was a must. It contains elegant and refined works. They complement the old world architecture of the building as they show the visitor examples of Gates’ sculptures and the oils and water colors produced by other artists he has selected to grace his gallery walls. Bravo!

Music is also a part of the Art Walk. In fact, this first Friday monthly event is a bit like walking through a high-toned outdoor market. The eyes are soothed and/or startled; the taste buds are stimulated, and the ears are treated to an expansive selection of tones, tunes, and tempos.

By the time one has covered the many venues, going out to dinner becomes a reasonable finale. Nicely, that activity provides many opportunities to discuss findings, likes and comparisons from the Art Walk.

It’s easy to appreciate that event because its diversity of artistic expression gives us an excellent example of Pocatello talent and creativity. Afterthought: the galleries will probably continue their showings for a time if you didn’t get to the Art Walk.

Shirley Taysom, Cydney Pearce and Deb Hedeen

Scott Benson, Shane Carnahan and K.C. Harding

Sande McDermott and Paul Wackenhut

Paul Neibaur and Bill Moore

Paul, Terrell, Truman and Luke William Campbell

Josh and Rube Sakalaris

Anne Schroeder, Roger and Nancy Wheeler

Emma and Vanessa Shafer

Kay Wilkins, Lori Ann Morris and Nina Wilkins

Bill Moore and Sonja Launspah

Janet Staples and Roberta Turner

Jarom and Rocky Rushton

Gail Olsen and Amanda Stubblefield

Mark & Debbie Stubblefield and Ken & Margaret Barr

Jan McDougall and Marty Sherwood

Wayne & Sandie Schow and Susanne Hull

Linda Chivers, Rose Bowen and Marilyn Raymond

Diane & Ted Schow

A Symphonic Tribute to the British Isles

            The end of an era? Perhaps, but we can also address the uncertainty evoked by the departure of Chung Park as a new step forward based on his legacy of attentive focus on the development of our symphony. So, welcome its future with enthusiasm. Long may it reign, prosper and provide us with the splendid symphonic programs we have come to expect and enjoy.

One does not have to exaggerate when describing the growth and expertise that our Idaho State Symphony has demonstrated during the last four years under the inspired leadership and tutelage of director Chung Park. This fellow has had a monumental effect upon orchestra members and the public which has come to be increasingly eager for each and every symphony presentation. And, of course, we will still have the wonderful Jensen Hall.

And now, back to the final season performance of the Idaho State Civic Symphony. It was grand! The beginning presentation was performed by the Idaho State University Concert Choir conducted by Dr. Scott Anderson. This impressive choir, accompanied by brass, percussion and organ, rendered the three movements of John Rutter’s Gloria in Latin.

Almost all seats were occupied for this concert. As an aside, the lovely flowering tree on the stage seemed to have been selected because of its fragile limbs. They presented a delicately musical posture. While that may seem a bit much, the tree perfectly matched the flowing atmosphere created by the music.

Elgar’s Enigma Variations, conducted by Park, was next. It provided a combination of fourteen very short musical images of some of the people in Elgar’s life. Finally, the Scottish Fantasy by Max Bruch was played. Violin soloist Yosuke Kawasaki performed beautifully and then gave us an encore.

Audience enthusiasm was energetic and appreciative. A standing ovation was given to Kawasaki and then to Park. Saying goodbye is always difficult and it was easy to see that the audience was pouring forth its love and appreciation for this fellow who has done so much for the Idaho State Civic Symphony. He will be missed, but the next Music Director will be welcomed with the same enthusiasm that this audience has given Park. How can it be any other way when so many people have been exposed to such wonderful music right here in Pocatello Idaho?

Nancy Lauts, Frances Ashcroft and Wendy J. Anderson

Mary and Noah Perry

Brian, Lori and Garrett Smith

Jennifer and Nick Alder

Kassaundra, Maddie, Megan and Jerod Young

Kris Hansen, Ari and Stephanie Herrera

Julie Waldel, Shovel, and Gabe Zamaro

Misty and Erin Hunzeker

John Trussel and Tonique Wartenbe

Nathan and Julia Brown

Whittney Coffin and Taylor Neilson

Diljune, Mauli and Ebiklou Ngiraswei

Del Owens and Kim Gower

Lajuana & Daniel Knight

Lea Bransky and Maddie Wilson

Debra Harris, Cameron Criddle and Charlie Johnson

Stephanie Adams and Cherylee Shuler

Karrie Johnson, Kristen Barrington, Glenda Ballanor and Kristen Medina

Celebrating Earth Day: The Environmental Fair

                        Of all the fairs available to Pocatellans, the environmental fair has perhaps the most information about what we can all do to protect our surroundings. Also, these actions do not  require us to deprive ourselves of material possessions. Instead, they remind us that our earth is a rich and meaningful tapestry of information, comfort, creativity and rest that all of us can enjoy. In return, our natural environment needs our care, appreciation and understanding.

To compare the fairs we have seen so far this spring: the Health Fair was probably 95% adults including town folk and students and the Spring Fair comprised an equal number of children and adults. But, the Environmental Fair must have attracted a crowd that was 75% children. There were so many attractions, such as talking to firemen, taking away balloon animals, planting a seed, eating baked potatoes, popcorn, candy and other treats. There was also an enormous variety of educational literature; a huge array of services, and much more.

All in all, this was a wonderful day; a bit hot but after our long session with topsy-turvy weather, it was most welcome, even though some sunburned arms and noses would later on provide another reminder of the day.

The Bark Park booth had two young women who have worked very hard to bring into reality the concept of a park where dogs could run free and play without danger from vehicles. “This will be Pocatello’s first dog park. We have worked for seven years and waded through tons of red tape but now, for sure, this ½ acre area will become a reality,” said Cherylee Shuler.

The Animal Shelter, always calm, helpful and so aware of the many cats and dogs in our community that are in desperate need of a good temporary home at the shelter, remind everyone to vote for a new Shelter on the November ballot. It is a condition of civilized behavior that these animals be treated well and offered a clean and healthy environment until they are rescued by a compassionate community member.

Another of the many noteworthy booths was that devoted to helping our military veterans in their struggle to reenter civilian life. Our debt to these veterans is obvious and so it was important that knowledgeable people were in attendance here.

The fire department struck a special chord with its engine rig and the American flag flying from the top of the ladder. Travis Smith, of the fire station on Bannock Highway, was especially kind and helpful. In his words, “We really appreciate the opportunity to be involved in this event. It is especially important to us that we can help the public have a better understanding of fire danger and control.”

To pick out one booth over any other may be inappropriate. Every person who had worked to  set up a booth, produce literature, take time to answer questions, and provide the public with explanations about their particular endeavor is to be thanked and congratulated for making this a fun, appreciative and educational experience.

Ardys Holte and Doug Balfour

Rick Aubrey and Rita Haggardt

Catalina Steckbauer, Roy Lacey and Sam McKee

Roger Bray and Elmer Martinez

Donna Boe and Dave Packer

Janie Gebhardt and Eric D'Amico

John Perryman and Tamara Code

Greg Anderson and Gene Gillette

Doug Sayer

Judy & Frank Harmon, Margaret Herzog

Roger Chase

Jane Vitale, Angela & Adam Davis

Arlene Hurlburt, Jim & Shelley Allen

Dick Sagness and Dave Finkelnburg

Teuila & Eon Filiaga

Edgar Malepeai, Val Arvas and James Ruchti

Welcome Home

            The Idaho Legislature dominates many newspaper articles and TV news programs throughout the legislative session of each year. When the legislative year is over, both Senators and House members arrive back home. Then,  there is good reason to get together and welcome them.

This year is a little different in that Edgar Malepeai and Diane Bilyeu are retiring from the Idaho State Senate and Donna Boe has previously retired from the legislative House. All three of these dedicated individuals will be missed at the state level. But, the clarity and intellect they each exhibited in their decision making processes will also be greatly missed by their constituents.

Each of the three spoke at the gathering in Station Square while a packed house comprising mostly Democrats and some Republicans enjoyed apple pie with ice cream and coffee. It was especially rewarding to hear each of the three express their feelings about their time within the legislature.

Happily, they each spoke of the dedication many of their fellows exhibited when addressing issues. Sadly, there were also a few words spoken about the diminishing demonstrations of regard for bipartisan decision making. While this bump in the road has been addressed by others, it hopefully reminds all of us that when good minds get together, there is much more to be done than merely expressing differences of opinion.

Appreciation for local values and perspectives was noted by Senator Malepeai as one of the driving forces needed in the minds and hearts of all legislators. Bilyeu too, used those words but then also indicated she was disappointed in the toxic atmosphere and lack of ethics that was sometimes demonstrated during the session.

Over all, each of the retiring legislators stressed that they were deeply satisfied and moved by the support they had received from their constituents and others throughout the state. That their input into so many legislative debates was supported contributed to a sense of fulfillment for each of them. That sort of approval is cherished when individuals are working hard to do what is right for the citizens they represent plus random others throughout the State of Idaho

Donna Boe, who had retired earlier, mentioned that it was interesting and provided new perspective for her to stand back and observe; still she was glad to have stepped down. Another idea that came up during the comments was that people on both sides of the aisle were often able to be on common ground when addressing issues. The result was to accomplish more. That sort of willingness to work together, when it happened, made tasks much less frustrating when searching for solutions to a variety of important problems.

Anyone who has ever had an opportunity to discuss legislative problems with these three individuals knows that this has been an outstanding group. They will be missed in the legislature for their decision making processes. The community, however,  knows they will continue to contribute their solid ideas to the positive future of Idaho.

Welcome home and thank you so much for caring about people!

Jamie Udell, Kylie Koolstra and Sierra Peterson

Brent & Stacey Marshall

Warren and Danielle Brakebill and Jim Jump

Allex Deatherage and Neil Jewell

Jared Webster and Amanda Wyatt

Bodhi and Kendall Edmo and Denell Gonzales

Landon Hall and Annie Robbins

Wini, Madeleine and DeWayne Murphy

Dusty McAnulty and Cheryl Jewitt

Samantha, Joanna and Tirionna Marlow and Carol Fields

Christie & Justin Olson

D'Lynn & Teresa Howell

Candice Robbins and Shane Harris

Chase Howell and Julie Wright

Nika Criddle, Tricia Zitterkops and Burgandie Bullocks

Stephanie Hunter

Rodeo Time

            The Wrangler Silver Tour Rodeo has come to town! Those who live in the eastern United States seldom have the opportunity or perhaps the inclination to see a rodeo. Living in the West, however, offers a different story. Rodeos pull many toward that particular brand of entertainment or participation for various reasons. Sometimes it is love of horses or, on a more practical level, the tasks related to growing up on a ranch or farm.

So, now we come to the rodeo. Just as with a neighborhood baseball game in an empty field, a rodeo can take place in an empty lot. Both focus on having fun doing something that is compelling, satisfying and maybe scary. They can both also lead to joy, fame and greater understanding of self.

The entertaining spectacle of rodeo has arisen from the bronco busting, bull riding or calf branding and more which began as part of the working ranch life. Nevertheless, today, one of the reasons rodeo survives is because it is exciting to see muscular and seemingly ferocious animals being subdued or possibly subduing their riders or ropers.

We also see the elegant footwork of quarter horses as they and their riders unify in the process of roping, bulldogging, or barrel racing and more. To see this intelligent blending of rider and horse capabilities is quite wonderful especially if we consider the patience needed by both to accomplish the task.

Among the many aspects of rodeo showmanship are bull and bronc riding. They offer a combination of luck in drawing a great animal, not getting scraped off against a fence or rolled on, and finally, the talent required for staying on until the buzzer sounds. Even so, the reward for doing everything right can be a matter of broken bones.

The rodeo also features Mutton Bustin’; one little kid at a time rides a bouncing stiff legged sheep across the arena. Wearing a helmet and garbed in true cowboy fashion, these young boys and girls are to be applauded for their courage!

And yes, the rodeo queen contestants: these lovely young ladies are big smiles, fancy outfits, showy belt buckles and pristine hats. Upon meeting them, it is easy to think they should all win.

People come to the rodeo from many western states. Some are there to cheer on a son or grandson, as typified by proud grandmother Wini Murphy who said, “Yes, Sonny (her grandson), I’ve gone to rodeos since I was ‘that’ tall!”

A final observation: those who work with animals are nice people. The ones you may meet at a rodeo all show humility and good manners topped off with a quiet self confidence that does not come from taking a class in self esteem. Instead, they have developed their character through working with, being responsible for and training farm and ranch animals.  We are lucky to have a rodeo come to Pocatello.

KC Felt, Bob Bloxham & Kate DeLate

Kellie and Jess Dalik and Tami Carlyle

Nancy Ruud and Kevin Lundquist

Eric Carlson and Keith Miller

Ronda Scott, Terri Hawkins and Sheray Kies

Devin Dixon and Jeff MacKey

Delwin Bevin, Michelle and Mason Clinger

Deanna & LaVerelle Stecklein

Tanner and Debbie Erickson, Stacey and Colter Raben

Sable Gneiting and Louis Deckard

Jennifer, Nick and Tobin Alder

Liz, Brighton and Torey Robinson

Braden Wollen and Nash Hendricks

Eleanor Romero, Mike VanBrant and Rose Saiz

Marc Argon and Harley Wilson

Shantelle McKnight and Dallas Pope

Tiffany Liljenquist and Dylan Swanson

ISU Spring Fair

            The word ‘fair’ has multiple definitions. It can be supposed that “It isn’t fair to get a ticket when you are just going a little bit faster than the designated speed limit.” Or, “It rained yesterday, but other than that the weather was fair for this time of the year.” Or, “The Spring Fair is here, so let’s go and see what’s going on!”

The subject of this piece is the latter use of ‘fair.’ Specifically, it describes the Raven Productions Spring Fair held last week at the ISU Holt Arena. Upon entering the parking area at the Holt, it appeared that the entire Pocatello community was checking out this event. And, after three days, total attendance was more than 20,000. Wow!

Weather on Saturday was beautiful, but that did not deter anyone from checking out the more than 225 businesses and services represented. The merchandise was varied: everything from cosmetics and jewelry to storm doors and windows to green houses and garden tractors. Finally, trailers that could change camping into luxuriating beckoned visitors outdoors to inspect the many, many examples.

The food aisle was a welcome stopover. Its purposes combined eating with meeting friends and gathering family members who had lingered in one of the many other aisles. The picnic tables were consistently full and booths offered an assortment of foods that could please just about any culinary preference.

Fair clientele included young families with two or three small children, often in a super sized stroller; for these groups there was clothing, toys, yard swings, household gates to protect little ones from descending steep stairs, and many other child oriented products.

Then there were couples looking for the ‘good deals’ with which to start their lives together. These items included, among other attractions;  paintings, lawn furniture, and of course, the sets of dishes, pots and pans, and tools with which to slice, chop, cook, or otherwise change raw ingredients into yummy creations all in a few perfect minutes.

Many pairs of teens or older residents wandered about just looking, mostly for something new and different, a chance to see friends (or make new ones), the opportunity to eat terrific ‘fair’ food, or merely enjoy being among so many other friendly fair goers.

Several services offered good deals on window washing, yard cleanup, potions for fertilizing plants and again, a plethora of other possibilities for making life easier as spring notifies all of us our yards and houses too are ready for attention.

Happily, everyone’s fair cravings seemed to be fulfilled. And so, as the streams of fairgoers and fair leavers passed one another, all had expectant or satisfied happy smiles plus armloads of ideas, acquisitions and/or probably full tummies.

KC Felt, of Raven Productions, said, “This has been amazingly well attended. The crowds comprised people from local areas as well as several from Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, California and beyond.” It was great fun with great things to buy and great ideas to pursue. Sum total? It was a perfect fair!

Ashley George and Paula Sanderlin

Natalie Hartley and Shannon Smith

DaNel Kirby, Logan Stanley and Amanda Butikofer

Moses Collier and Loretta Taylor

Zina Magee, Amber Burt and Tedi Hugues

Missy Haidle and Kiersten Moholy

Colleen Champlin and Natalie Armstrong

Daren Collins with Karmel and Tessa Heath with Sunshine

Ryan Gilbert, Kelci Eck and Sarah Cox

Nomin Park and Mikayla Carrington

Jesse Carroll and Peggy Frost

Cindy Evans and Mary Mayfield

Kale Bergeson

Alice Konishi and Minnie Adams

Cassey Troshynski

Barbara and Sally Maurer

Rosemary Nett and Terry Walsh

Dennis & Shannon Sudweeks

Jill Kirkham and Rhonda D'Amica

 ISU Annual Health Fair for 2012

            “Going to the Fair” can send us in many directions. This event, the ISU Health Fair, is super because it provides enjoyable ways to get information about physical, emotional and mental health plus a ton of other available services. As Shannon Sudweeks of Home Health offered, “This is the second Health Fair in which we have participated; the networking is great and we have met so many wonderful people.”

Tests on hearing, lung capacity and more are available as is information about pet care and the Animal Shelter. Brochures about physical therapy, spinal problems, kidney function, aroma therapy and more were there for the taking. . The ISU Credit Union offered financial information (which can certainly affect our health!).

If abstain from having breakfast, you can get a blood test. This has great appeal because it can, without exorbitant cost, identify many health needs which you can discuss with your medical doctor.

Veteran assistance is offered through the ISU Veteran’s Sanctuary. Kale Bergeson,, Student Outreach Officer said, “When I first came to ISU, I was adrift and overwhelmed, but the veteran services helped me so much with everything from resources to camaraderie. I urge all Vets to come and see us.”

Its fun to discover your hearing hasn’t been diminished by the din in movie theaters; it’s also a happy thing to find your lung capacity is better than most at your age level. At the same time, it is helpful to have your spine alignment checked.

So, whether you learn about things that need fixing or things that show you’re still perking along, it is all beneficial.  Additionally, issues including healthy eating, the values of a colonoscopy, taking care of your pets or finding home health services are available. This list is offered, not in order of importance; but merely to show some of what the Health Fair offers.

There is no excuse for neglecting our physical and mental health. This Fair nicely presents a huge spectrum of available tests, services and remedies. It also offers alternative health services and, importantly, ways to deal with our health without having to give up an arm, leg, or kidney to pay for those services.

If you read this and say to yourself: “Thank you very much, but I have no need of any help with physical, mental or emotional needs; and my pets’ needs are also taken care of,” that is great! You can always come to the Fair just to enjoy conversation with students within the many departments which provide degrees in the areas referred to above. Also, you can collect enough ballpoint pens to last until next year and come away with multiple fabric grocery bags. And then there are the cookies, coffee, juice, milk and cheese sticks which can revive your brain after it soaks up information.

Finally, there is that rare opportunity to see the sun rise before dashing in for a blood test. It all takes place once a year in the Pond ballroom at ISU and is an easy way to get started and then continue to manage health needs.

Debbie & Monte Davis

Marc Wilson, Jacob and Stephen Michelson

Maurice Sanchez, Jeremy Jennings and Robert Jesse

Salvador, Amaya, Noellia, Anicia, Caprees Garza and Ayden Luna

David & Kim Kessel, Charlie Huff and Don Cook

Jeff Baldwin, Cal Craner and Larry Baldwin

Kent Richards and Denise Jones

Tacia & Nick Tsakrios

Jeff and Greg Brough

Steven, Chuck and Chucky Bissey

Carol & Joe Kremer

Taya, Addison and Heather Tensel

Kyle & Jaime Jones

ShyAnn Mikesell, Kim and Allyssa Day

Jake Mikesell, Jaceslyn, Ryan and Jefton (little guy in the backpack) Day

Carol Nafer and Mike Barnes

Maggie & Allen Weishaar

Ciera (hiding her face), Troy and Rachel Matheson

Chuck & Linda Porter, Kent & Jan Linford

Carlo & Terresa Wilson

Chrome in the Dome

            If you want to find nostalgia and a sociable atmosphere plus extraordinary examples of restored and/or modified gasoline engine vehicles, then put Chrome in the Dome on your calendar for next year. Skills USA Car Club has sponsored it for at least six years and is associated with the auto tech/web/design classes within ISU.

This is always an educational and fun March event at the Holt Arena. Loving cars makes it truly special and this event had something to appeal to a wide range of tastes!

This year, the vehicles were placed in a clockwise arrangement of the earliest vehicles up to the long, sleek models from the 1940s and finally, the latest examples of uniquely customized contemporary cars. Also, tucked among all of the glitter were some pickups and jeeps, one with bullet holes in the glass and another with a skull on the hood.

The earliest vehicles were the roadsters: Model T Fords dating from 1915 and maybe earlier, up through a 1933 Plymouth. All of these had brilliant paint jobs and tough but beautiful engines which were clean and powerful appearing without even being fired up. Each vehicle was attended by a happy owner who delighted in giving all observers facts about his/her pride and joy.

The 1940s cars featured memorable long classic bodies with gleaming chrome, fancy fins, elegant interiors and elaborate hubcaps. Of course, they also sported engines that appeared to have the power to go from here to the moon and back.

There were some notable paints which, depending on the tilt of your head, would appear deep blue, peacock green, purple or black. There were low riders that would definitely be challenged by any obstacle higher than a speed bump. Others showed custom bodies and/or engines but all merited description as “sexy”, “cool” or other complimentary terms.

A personal favorite was the early model MG. What fun it would be to drive it around here while watching for pot holes and squirrels. Oh well!

Beyond all the topnotch forms of automotive care and creativity, there were the motorcycles. Once again they exuded shine, power and personal pride, all of which drew fans to inspect them closely.

Along the sides of the Holt arena, vendors offered fancy-dancy hubcaps: there were also unique trophies made by students using engine parts and ideal for use as prizes.

Of course, other vendors offered insurance, oil, car parts, raffle tickets and services.  Corndogs, hot dogs and other tasty morsels were also available as a respite from walking, looking and talking to exhibitors..

One fellow, Tom Hogan, was nice enough to describe in detail his “kit car,” a Ford roadster with a Chevy engine and a trunk instead of a rumble seat. The car was a true red and Hogan was a true gem. There is a lot to be said for fun and informative conversations; this was definitely one to remember.

To categorize visitors to Chrome in the Dome would be impossible. It was packed with families, teens, college students, those reliving their associations with similar vehicles and the merely curious. It was a terrific show!

Alan Bermensolo with wife Vickie and daughter Kara

Shawn Kelsch and Jeff Newbold

MaryKay & Bill Richey

Jim & Deb Jolly

Don Aslett

Park & Sharon Price with Arthur & Laura Vailas

Mark Johnson, Kara Bermensolo and Susan Johnson

Zack & Rhianna Johnson

Matt Bloxham

Karen & Jim Johnston

Jean & Kent Tingey

Idaho Business Leader of the Year: Alan Bermensolo

            What does it take to be honored as Idaho business leader of the year? The Delta Upsilon chapter of ISU business fraternity Alpha Kappa Psi, has come through with a sterling addition to its list which already comprises many topnotch business leaders. Even so, we are privileged to recognize and honor this year’s selection: Alan Bermensolo

Bermensolo, a Mountain Home business man has been the CEO and president of B Transfer, Inc and B Secure Self Storage LLC since 1988. Previous to his tenure, these enterprises were begun by his grandfather and then continued by his parents.

Bermensolo’s awards and accomplishments are significantly notable but it is in a conversation with him that one’s appreciation and regard move to a level unequaled by most. How is that? First, his straightforward conversational skills immediately convey that here is an individual with a balanced view of life and its various exigencies. In other words, he is not interested in taking charge of the discussion nor is he intent upon second guessing what the “right response” would be.

Bermensolo has humility. This particular attribute can sometimes be seen as undesirable by those thinking leadership is power. However, perhaps it is best to use his words, “My father was the oldest offspring in his family. Leadership was instilled in him, not as a way to control others but as a work ethic and the need to be a gentleman. I learned from him and my mother that there are three simple rules: 1) do the right thing, 2) do it to the best of your ability, and 3) show people you care about others.”

He describes his interactions with employees using much of the same language in that he works toward developing excellence and mutual trust, “they are like family, and are part of what I am.”

He talked about his family and the tragedy that had visited them. However, even though it was a difficult task, he described how he recognized that we can never assume life will be free of such events. Further, that the strength one can develop through deeply unfortunate accidents will not only sustain but can help to meet additional life challenges.

Bermensolo’s good judgment has propelled him upward. He expresses, when speaking of clients, that “1) Can I trust this person? 2) Is he or she committed to excellence and 3) Does he or she care about me? Finally, he articulates a simple but profound perspective on problems: “If there is a problem, fix it.” The sum of this leads to the obvious opinion that the selection of this business leader was accomplished by a high quality group.

And, as a final note, guests comprised sartorially elegant gentlemen and stylish women, all of whom exuded a dignified but animated presence. Even so, Alan Bermensolo, his wife Vickie and daughter Kara stood out through the entire evening as being well worth the spotlight within which they stood. Sum total? This Business Leader adds a special zest to the list of previous selections! It was a pleasure to meet him.

Ian Mosley

Dennis Krumwiede, Greg Murphy and Kitty Pumpfrey

ISU President Arthur Vailas

Savana Soljess, Megan McKinlay and Ravan Thorpe

Vishal Bainpal and Kuba Kusmeruk

Moses Collier, Steven Taryole, Colin Carr and Ray Skeem

John, Nathaniel and Noke Walker

Marjanna and Colter Hulot

Jay Colonel and Anne Nicholes

Sherrod Baldwin and Melvin Morgan

Victoria Banales and Sharon Biede

Amanda Donaldson, Britany Allred, Taylor Goodnee and Malyssa West

Stacy Pearson and Phillip Coates

Jaque Baergen and Susanne Forrest

Adam Gonzales, Shellee Roe and Chris Taylor

Adam Nickels, Khalil Azizi, and Katie Dean

Colonel George Hansen, Michael Ericksen, Daniel Hughes and Antonia Pearse

Casey & Kelsee Hyde

Sandra Dillon and Sarah McCurry

Linda DeVeaux and Caryn Evilia

Jake Kapplow, Drew Geiger and Kelli Seeliger

Jim Johnston (project co-chair) and Ruiling Guo

ISU and the Community: A ‘Communiversity’ Event

            What fun! Tons of people; stacks and stacks of information about programs, classes, civic events; learning to swing dance and more; seeing a pig heart and lungs; finding out about ROTC; and partaking of free hot dogs, baked potatoes and ice cream. Was that the whole thing? Not by a mile! So, let’s look at the event in its totality!

A reconfigured food court in the ISU student center might have been enough to enthrall, but the real draw was the Pond ballroom. That huge venue was packed with townsfolk, seven foot tall basket ball team members, sorority girls and fraternity boys, activities in which community members could participate; a site for taking blood pressure along with other booths focusing on a huge variety of health issues and as it has been said too many times in other pieces here, “…..the list goes on.”

But, let’s start at the beginning: finding a place to park. Just about every spot was taken except for a few in the Bilyeu theatre parking lot. So after a refreshing walk and then stepping around beverage trucks, TV station vans, lots of electric wires, and oodles of people carrying, pushing, and sorting boxes holding unimaginable contents, one could move into the fun craziness of this event.

Going into the ballroom took some deft twirls and turns mixed in with hops, skips and jumps to avoid people, products and more people. Once inside, it took more fancy movements to avoid ice cream bars and other foods from ending up on your clothing. Is this a complaint? Not at all! Instead, it spoke directly to the merriment and great enthusiasm which should pervade a university campus.

Everyone, from ISU President Arthur Vailas to the crew that so painstakingly monitors the materials that go into the recycling program, was smiling, exuberant and animated. What an exciting experience.

All in all the mix of students and community members was energized by this example of what can take place when the university and community join hands to celebrate life, knowledge, interactive events and understandings.

Jim Johnston, co-chair of the occasion, was every place at once, always with a smile. It takes special people to have this kind of dedication and Johnston has it all.

One of the neatest things about this frenetic event was the opportunity to have conversations with young people who are deeply involved in graduate studies about any one of several stimulating topics. One such person, Ian Mosley, a graduate student in Sociology was especially interesting as he described his interest in behaviors. His comment, however, focused on the event, “It is such a pleasure to see so many people here who are really interested in the things that ISU students are studying.”

Every one of the booths had animated and friendly people tending to them. It was informative, jolly and well worth attending!