LIA Briefs

Congratulations to Travis Jones, Class 28, who was recently reappointed by the Oregon Governor, to the Oregon Wheat Commission. Travis serves as a Member At - Large for the Commission. His past experience on the staff of Senator Larry Craig and as Executive Director of the Idaho Grain Producers gave him excellent background for the position. Travis continues his work as US State and Local Manager for Government and Public Affairs for NIKE, Inc. in Portland.
 
Congratulations to Audra Cochran, Class 39, who received her Master's Degree from the University of Idaho earlier this month. Audra continues her position as Associate Extension Educator for the U of I Extension Forestry program.
 
Congratulations to Samantha Parrott, wife of Stephen Parrott, Class 39, who recently received her Master's Degree from the U of I. Samantha works in Boise for U of I CALS in Fund Development.
 
Prayers and quick healing for Lisa Shively, Class 15, who recently broke her hand while planting flowers with a new auger device she has purchased. Lisa said it was totally "operator error". The surgery is completed and Lisa may have trouble going through airport security in the future.
 
When the COVID situation raised its head in Idaho, Foodbanks across the state were forced to change procedures. Candi Fitch, Class 28, played an important role in helping the Cascade Food Pantry. Candi stepped up and connected the Cascade folks with onion sheds in the Treasure Valley to supply 300 fresh boxes every two weeks to fill for 150 households. Thanks Candi for doing your part to fight food insecurity for families.
 
Sympathy is extended to Dean Langley, Class 9, who recently lost his older sister Stella Stroebel, living in Kuna. Stella's death was sudden and at home. Our thoughts and support are with Dean and his wife Julia at this time.
 
Sympathy is extended to Clark Tacke, Class 37, and his wife Sara in the loss of Sara's grandfather and longtime Idaho ag leader Jim McDonalds, former Idaho Wheat Commissioner. Clark and Sara farm in the Greencreek area of North Idaho.
 
Cori Wittman Stitt, Class 40, reports that her Dad Dick Wittman made it through his open heart surgery in Spokane in April but then had to return about two weeks later for some complications. Many of you met Dick when he spoke at the 2020 Idaho Ag Summit. Our prayers are with Dick and the family during his extended recovery. The Wittmans farm in the Lapwai area.
 
Congratulations to Brooke Jacobson, Class 39, on her recent marriage to Caleb Swanke, the first of May. Brooke continues her employment at the Idaho State Department of Agriculture in Range Management.
 
Congratulations to Britt Beene, Class 36, and wife, Andrea on the election of their son, Clayton, as State FFA President via an interesting procedure to deal with the COVID environment. Clayton just graduated from High School.
 
Congratulations to Crystal Wilson, Class 36, who recently received the highest award from the Idaho Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the June Yerrington Award. Crystal is part of launching a new program through DairyWest, and serves as Vice President of Employee Development and Engagement for the company Unbottled in Meridian.