Community members, Idaho State University thank donors, present checks to Mayor Blad for new Bengal paws

POCATELLO – Community representatives and Idaho State University thanked donors and presented two checks totaling $24,500 to Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad that will be used to replace the Bengal paws on Pocatello streets running from the East Clark Street freeway exit ramp to Holt Arena and Reed Gymnasium on the ISU campus.

Community donors, represented by Idaho Central Credit Union President and ISU alumnus Kent Oram, presented a check for $15,000 and ISU President Arthur Vailas presented one for $9,500.

“Idaho State University is a vital part of this community. These paw prints let visitors know that as soon as you enter Pocatello you’re in Bengal country,” said Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad. “We’d like to thank Mr. Oram and Idaho Central Credit Union, President Vailas and Idaho State University and all of you who donated for your generous support.”

A ceremony was held today at Holt Arena, near Memorial Drive where some of the paws will be installed. Those on hand got to see one of the new four-foot-square paw prints.

“I am excited to see the response from many in our community who want to ensure that Idaho State University maintains a strong and visible presence,” Oram said. “The paws represent the community’s support for ISU and all of the benefits the university adds to our community.”

ISU’s Vailas said he was pleased by all the support expressed by community and the City of Pocatello.

“This is Bengal country and these paw prints lead citizens and students to our fine University,” Vailas said. “We are thrilled that the community moved so quickly to raise these funds and get a new set of paw prints that lead them to the heart of our campus. We would like to express our thanks and appreciation to all of the community donors.”

Those donors include Idaho Central Credit Union, Portneuf Medical Center, Richard and Gloria Howell, Idaho State University Federal Credit Union, Michael and Alene Orr, Pioneer Title Company, Arlene Wilson-Evans, First American Title Company, Mickelsen Construction, Acoustic Specialties, Inc., Greater Association of Pocatello Realtors, Inc., Engelson, Capell & Engelson, PA, Mark and Sheila Dahlqvist, Mark and Eva Nye, Cole Chevrolet, Jay and Carol Colonel, Dick and Donna Sagness and Staci Campbell, Hair Hub, LLC., and Phil Meador Toyota.