LIA Briefs

Sympathy is extended to Justin Place, Class 37, in the recent passing of his father. Justin and his sons are involved in a farming operation at Hamer, Idaho.
 
Slow recovery, but good progress is being made by Dave Bjorneberg, Class 23, following a recent surgery. Dave plans to return to work at the USDA Research Service in Kimberly this week.
 
Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated for Reagon Hatch, Class 14, who recently suffered a stroke. Reagon has been in Boise at St. Luke's hospital, but is scheduled to return to the Magic Valley for therapy as he continues his battle against cancer. Reagon was honored at the Twin Falls County Fair for his involvement in the Magic Valley Dairy Heifer Program. He has been in a role of leadership with that program since 1996.
 
Sympathy and prayers are extended to Jeremy Falk, Class 36, in the sudden and unexpected passing of his father. Jeremy's family lives in Ohio. Jeremy will return to his teaching assignments at the U of I following his time with family for the memorial service.
 
Over 80 LIA alumni, spouses, and family members attended the Treasure Valley LIA BBQ on August 29 at the home of Rick and Dorita Waitley. Thanks to everyone who came to enjoy the great food and fellowship. Bob Hays, Class 28, provided the BBQ trailer and served great BBQ burgers, hot dogs, brats, and sausages. Bob was assisted by his wife, Becky; LIA Trustee Kip Dennis, Class 19; and John Mundt, a longtime friend of LIA.
 
Dr. John Foltz, Class 12, has recently accepted a position as Head of the Department of Animal Science at his alma mater, Ohio State University. John will be leaving Idaho in September, having served at U of I as a professor, Associate Dean, Dean, and most recently, Special Assistant to the President. This move to Ohio will allow John to live closer to family members.
 
The LIA Board of Trustees has their work cut out for them as they start to work through the pile of 44 applications for the 30 positions in LIA Class 38. Thanks to many LIA alumni who recruited, wrote letters of recommendation, and encouraged individuals to apply. The class will be announced following the selection on 
September 8.
 
The Idaho Ag Summit Governor Awards Committee met recently and selected the individuals for the five categories of Governor Awards. Drew Eggers, Class 12, was selected in the category of Lifetime Achievement and will be recognized at the Ag Summit on February 20 in Boise.
 
Deb Kauffman, wife of State Representative Clark Kauffman, Class 13, walked away from County Government in Twin Falls County with a happy "retirement smile" after serving the past several years as County Treasurer with over 20 total years of service to the County. Deb will find plenty to fill her time as a wife of a State Representative and active farmer.
 
Shane Robins, Class 35, his wife, Jamie, and family recently relocated from Idaho to West Jordan, UT, where Shane will be working for Intermountain Wood Flooring out of Salt Lake City. Shane had been employed at Big D Ranch in Meridian.