Thursday, September 30, 2010

IDAHO STATE UNIVERSITY MASSAGE THERAPY CLINIC OPENS OCTOBER 26TH

Released by Idaho State University College of Technology 9/30/10
Contact: Susan Beck, (208) 282-4287

IDAHO STATE UNIVERSITY MASSAGE THERAPY CLINIC OPENS OCTOBER 26TH
Pocatello – Experience the benefits of massage and improve your health at the Idaho State University Massage Therapy Clinic. The ISU Massage Therapy Program is beginning their fall clinic sessions on Tuesday, October 26.

The Massage Therapy Clinic is open on Tuesday and Thursday nights while classes are in session. Appointments are available at 5:15 pm and 6:30 pm. The clinic is located in Owen Complex, building #42 on the ISU Campus. Parking is available behind the building near the ramped entrance. A twenty-four hour notice for cancellation is requested and clients are asked to arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled time.

Each massage session costs $20 and is payable by cash or check. Any contributions made above the fee go to the ASISU Student Massage Therapy Association.

All massage sessions are provided by student practitioners. Appointments may be scheduled online at http://www.isu.edu/ctech/massagetherapy/schedule.shtml or by leaving a message at 282-2988.



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Wednesday, September 29, 2010

New Online Version of ISU Student Newspaper The Bengal Due to Go Live by Monday, Oct. 4

Released by Idaho State University September 29, 2010
Contact: Bengal Newspaper Editor Princess Young, 282-2247 or bgchief@isu.edu

New Online Version of ISU Student Newspaper The Bengal
Due to Go Live by Monday, Oct. 4

POCATELLO – Idaho State University’s student newspaper The Bengal will feature a new online edition by Monday, Oct. 4.
“We are working on finishing our new and updated website (www.isubengal.com) so that it can go live as soon as possible,” said Princess Young, The Bengal's Editor-in-Chief. “We were planning on making it live on Wednesday, Sept. 29, and even publicized it as such in our print edition of The Bengal, but we ran into some technical problems. We have been building our site with a company that is located in New York so we've been in close contact with them this week and are working on the issues now. The website will go live during the day on Monday, Oct. 4.”
The Bengal’s new website will feature all the content from the print editions, exclusive online stories, surveys and polls to participate in, online photo galleries, a PDF of the current edition of the paper, and online archives. Readers can also subscribe to an RSS feed and can submit online opinion articles and letters to the editor.
Cassidy Fernandez is The Bengal's Online Editor.
“I am very excited for the debut of the new site next week, and I am sure our readers will notice the improvements of our online version," Fernandez said. "Our website had not been updated since 2006. With the new layout, it will be easy to see why the noticeable differences in the site made it well worth the wait."
"We currently have more than 3,000 people that are subscribed to the RSS feed to our old site. They will be transferred to the new site next week, and I hope that our new edition will be so appealing that we will gain even more subscribers,” Young said. “It's our 100th year of publication with the print edition of The Bengal this year, and I am happy with the changes we have been making to attract students, staff, and the community to our publication. Technology has become increasingly vital in today's society so the new website will help us even more as we constantly increase our efforts to gain readership."
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IDAHO STATE UNIVERSITY RODEO TEAM MEMBERS MAKE TOP 10 IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGION

Released by Idaho State University 9/28/10

Written By: Angela Askey, (208) 282-3216

IDAHO STATE UNIVERSITY RODEO TEAM MEMBERS MAKE TOP 10 IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGION
Pocatello –Idaho State University Rodeo Team members completed their fall competition schedule following the Utah State University Fall
Stampede Rodeo this past weekend. Team members have had a successful fall season as shown by the Rocky Mountain Region Standings
posted Sept. 27, 2010:
Women’s team – 3rd in the Rocky Mountain Region and 8th in the Nation
Men’s team – 2nd in the Rocky Mountain Region and 2nd in the Nation
Men’s All Around
Kyle VanBiezen – 1st
Cy Eames – 2nd
Tyler Wadsworth – 3rd
Bull Riding
Montana Barlow – 1st
Tie Down Roping
Kyle VanBiezen – 1st
Tyler Wadsworth – 2nd
Cy Eames – 5th
Trevor Townsend - 9th<늄Ū>
Steer Wrestling
Kyle VanBiezen – 5th
Tyler Wadsworth – 6th
Cy Eames – 8th
Team Roping Header
Cy Eames – 1st
Jarrett BanBiezen – 8th
Team Roping Heeler
Tyler Wadsworth – 7th
Kyle VanBiezen – 8th
Barrel Racing
Kim Sanford – 2nd
Brianna Overdorf – 5th
Breakaway Roping
Tianna Stimpson – 10th
ISU rodeo team members competed against students from the following college/university rodeo teams: Brigham Young University, College of
Southern Idaho, Dixie State College of Utah, Snow College, Southern Utah University, Utah State University, Utah Valley University and Weber State University.
The ISU team will resume their rodeo schedule in February with 5 rodeos on the agenda for spring semester.
For more information about the ISU Rodeo Team contact Angela Askey, Advisor at 282-3216. For a complete listing
of rodeo standings please visit the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association website at http://collegerodeo.com.

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IDAHO STATE UNIVERISTY AUTOMOTIVE COLLISION REPAIR AND REFINISHING AND AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS TO HOST DALE EARNHARDT JR SPRINT CUP CAR

Released by Idaho State University College of Technology 9/29/10

Contact: Russel Butler, (208) 282-3305

IDAHO STATE UNIVERISTY AUTOMOTIVE COLLISION REPAIR AND REFINISHING AND AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS TO HOST DALE EARNHARDT JR SPRINT CUP CAR

Pocatello – The Idaho State University Automotive Collision Repair and Refinishing and Automotive Technology programs, in partnership with the US Army National Guard, will host the Dale Earnhardt Jr. NASCAR Sprint Cup Car on campus.

The car will be showcased on October 6th from 10 am-3pm in the Auto Collision and Automotive Technology parking lot, 1225 E Carter.
The public is invited to attend this FREE event.

For further information please contact ISU Auto Collision at 282-3305 or Automotive Technology at 282-3605.

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Tuesday, September 28, 2010

COLLEGE OF PHARMACY TO PROVIDE 50 FREE SEASONAL FLU IMMUNIZATIONS AT OPEN HOUSE THIS WEEK IN POCATELLO

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Andrew Gauss

September 28, 2010 (208) 282-3393

Andrew@pharmacy.isu.edu



MEDIA ADVISORY



COLLEGE OF PHARMACY TO PROVIDE 50 FREE SEASONAL FLU IMMUNIZATIONS AT OPEN HOUSE THIS WEEK IN POCATELLO



WHAT: In conjunction with American Pharmacist Month, the Idaho State University College of Pharmacy faculty, students and staff will provide flu vaccinations, free of charge, to the first 50 guests who register for adult flu shots during the Pharmacy Open House, slated for Friday, October 1 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the College of Pharmacy, 970 S. 5th Ave. These shots are a $30 value. Once the 50 free vaccines have been used, Sav-on Pharmacy will provide additional shots for $20. H1N1, or swine flu immunization is part of the seasonal flu shot this year. Those with ISU health insurance can receive the seasonal immunization, at no deductable cost by presenting a valid insurance card at the event. Child immunizations for those under 9 years of age will not be available.


WHEN: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2010

4 P.M.



WHERE: 970 S. 5TH AVE.

POCATELLO, ID




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Idaho State University Researchers Study Newly Discovered Earthquake Fault in Idaho’s Sawtooth Mountains

Released by Idaho State University September 28, 2010
Contact: Glenn Thackray, (208) 282-3560 or Thacglen@isu.edu

Idaho State University Researchers Study Newly Discovered
Earthquake Fault in Idaho’s Sawtooth Mountains

POCATELLO – While looking at a highly detailed new topographic image of Idaho’s Sawtooth Range, Idaho State University geosciences professor Glenn Thackray had an “eureka moment” when he discovered a previously unknown active earthquake fault about 65 miles, as the crow flies, from Boise.
ISU researchers estimate the fault has been active twice in the last 10,000 years, about 4,100 and 7,000 years ago.
The researchers examined a Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) image. LIDAR is a remote sensing system used to collect topographic data with aircraft-mounted lasers capable of recording elevation measurements at a rate of 25,000 pulses per second and can have a vertical precision of about six inches. The images can be displayed so they don’t show an area’s vegetation. Four years ago while doing some research on glaciers in the Sawtooth Range, Thackray was examining a high-resolution, “bare-earth” LIDAR image of the mountains: this is when he noticed a line running through the image in the vicinity of Redfish Lake.
“The black line stood out and I thought that it had to be an earthquake fault,” Thackray said. “It was long suspected that there was an active fault in the Sawtooths, but without the LIDAR technology it would have been exceptionally hard to find.”
Since that time, ISU researchers have been on the ground documenting the fault that is at least 25 miles long and could be as long as 40 miles. It is located on the eastern edge of the range and comes within about five miles from the town of Stanley. A portion of it runs through the upper end of Redfish Lake. It runs along the range approximately from near Stanley Lake to at least as far south as Petitt Lake.
“The reason this discovery is so important is that it is within the heavily visited areas of the Sawtooth National Recreation area, very close to the town of Stanley, and within 65 miles of Idaho’s largest city, Boise, and the most populated area in the state,” Thackray said. “We would like to know how big the earthquakes are along this fault and how active it is.”
Thackray emphasized that the fault is cause for concern, but not alarm, for visitors to and residents of the Stanley-Sawtooth area, and to the residents of the Wood River or Boise valleys. The discovery may have implications for land-use and emergency planning, and perhaps building codes. Depending on the magnitude of a potential earthquake, it could do damage to surrounding areas.
There are few major, active faults in Idaho. Idaho’s three other major faults run along the base of the Lost River Range (where the famous Borah Peak magnitude 7.3 earthquake, the largest ever recorded in Idaho, occurred in 1983), the Lemhi Range and the Beaverhead Range. Faults are break in the earth’s crust, along which rocks and the earth move. Typically, the earth is moving up on one side of the fault, and moving down on the other.
“It’s the movement of the rocks that are important. That is what creates an earthquake hazard,” Thackray said.
After discovering the fault on the LIDAR image and then confirming its existence on the ground, ISU researchers had to determine whether it was an active fault, defined as a fault that has featured an earthquake within the last 10,000 years. Determining whether the fault was active was a challenge for the researchers because most of the fault is located within the Sawtooth Wilderness and Recreation Area.
“Normally, to test a fault you could take in a Cat or backhoe and dig up sediment and rock and use carbon dating to date the occurrence of previous activity,” Thackray said. “But we couldn’t do that because the fault is in a wilderness area.”
This is where a little luck and scientific serendipity came into play. Other ISU researchers, biological sciences professor Bruce Finney, postdoctoral researcher Mark Shapley, and ISU geosciences graduate student Eric Johnson, were doing lake sediment core sampling of lakes in the Sawtooths, including Redfish Lake, to study the historical record of sockeye salmon returning to the area. While drilling through the sediment in the upper portion of Redfish Lake the researchers hit levels where there were landslide deposits interrupted the regular accumulation of sediment deposits.
“We were able to date the occurrence of the most recent fault activity by using those drilling samples from the large landslides in Redfish Lake,” Thackray said.
“There is a lot that we still don’t know about this fault, but our studies have revealed the outline of its history,” he added.
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Monday, September 27, 2010

Journal of the American Dietetic Association Recognizes Two ISU Students Arrowood and Schneider for Outstanding Performance

Released by: Idaho State University Sept. 27, 2010
Written by: Rachel Essinger
Contact: Andrea Grim, Clinical Assistant Professor (208) 282-3091, grimandr@isu.edu

Journal of the American Dietetic Association Recognizes
Two ISU Students Arrowood and Schneider for Outstanding Performance

POCATELLO – This month’s Journal of the American Dietetic Association recognized Dawnett Arrowood as ISU’s Outstanding Dietetic Student of the Year and Ruth Schneider as Idaho’s Outstanding Registered Dietician of the Year.
The Outstanding Dietetics Student Award encourages participation in the American Dietetic association by recognizing the emerging leadership and achievement of students in dietetics education programs that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education. States may select one student recipient from each type of education program: Dietetic Internship, Coordinated Program and Dietetic Technician Program.
Recipients of the Outstanding Dietitian of the Year have made distinguished contributions to advancing the profession. The criteria and the name of the award are determined by each state organization.
The award listings are in the September 2010, Vol. 110, No. 9 issue of Journal of the American Dietetic Association. For more information about ISU’s dietetics program visit www.isu.edu/hns/dietetics/didactic.shtml.

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ISU’s University Counseling and Testing Service to Hold Second Annual Wellness Symposium Sept. 30-Oct. 2

Released by: Idaho State University Sept. 30, 2010
Written by: Rachel Essinger
Contact: University Counseling and Testing Service, Pocatello (208) 282-2130

ISU’s University Counseling and Testing Service to Hold
Second Annual Wellness Symposium Sept. 30-Oct. 2

POCATELLO – For one weekend this fall, Idaho State University’s University Counseling and Testing Service will hold its second annual Wellness Symposium in the Pond Student Union.
The symposium will consist of workshops and presentations such as “Viewing Conflict as Opportunity,” “Creating a Culture of Civility” and “Healthy Eating Using the Food Label” led by doctors in various fields with professional continuing education units available.
Sessions start at 9 a.m. every day of the symposium and last until 5 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and until noon on Saturday in the North Fork Room. Meditation/mindful movement will be offered Thursday and Friday from 8-9 a.m. in the Bear River Room.
Registration fees are $20 for Thursday half-day, Friday half-day or Saturday, $40 Thursday full-day or Friday full-day. All events are free to individuals not requesting continuing education hour credit.
For more information about the Wellness Symposium call (208) 282-2130. For information about University Counseling and Testing Service call (208) 282-2130 in Pocatello or (208) 282-7750 in Idaho Falls, or visit online at www.isu.edu/ctc.
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College of Pharmacy to Host 5K Fun Walk/Run for Diabetes Oct.9

Released by: Idaho State University Sept. 27, 2010 Written by: Rachel Essinger
Contact: Jeff Gower gowejeff@pharmacy.isu.edu

College of Pharmacy to Host 5K Fun Walk/Run for Diabetes Oct.9

POCATELLO – Students of Idaho State University’s College of Pharmacy will hold a 5K Fun Walk/Run for Diabetes on Oct. 9 as part of American Pharmacists Month and in preparation for National Diabetes Month in November.
The event will also include health education booths and hands-on demonstrations that participants and onlookers can enjoy.
Preparations have already begun for this event and the college is working with a number of other groups on campus including nursing students, physician’s assistant students and the ISU Wellness Center, but they are looking for additional assistance in funding and preparations for further advertising, water station supplies and materials for participants.
Registration begins at 9 a.m. at the ISU Hutchinson Quadrangle. The race begins at 9:30 a.m. There is a $10 entry fee.
For more information or to make a contribution, contact Jeff Gower at gowejeff@pharmacy.isu.edu.
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Thursday, September 23, 2010

GEOMATICS TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM RECEIVES DONATION FROM GEOLINE, INC.

Released by Idaho State University College of Technology 9/23/10

Written By: Angela Askey, (208) 282-3216

GEOMATICS TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM RECEIVES DONATION FROM GEOLINE, INC.
Pocatello – The Idaho State University Geomatics Technology program recently received a donation of Global Positioning equipment from GeoLine, Inc., of Boise for establishing a Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) at the ISU Meridian Campus.
Equipment, totaling more than $15,000, includes a dual frequency Global Positioning System(GPS) NETRS receiver, Zephyr Geodetic Antenna , 50ft of antenna cable, and Ethernet to power adapter.
Once the CORS is established on the Meridian Campus as a base station, Geomatics Technology students in Meridian will be able to utilize centimeter level accuracy in obtaining geodetic latitude, longitude and ellipsoidal height for their field data collection. This facility will also be used by other local surveyors for no charge.
The first CORS station was established on the main ISU Campus in Pocatello by the Geomatics Technology Program as a result of donations from the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD), Idaho Society of Professional Surveyors, ISU GIS Center, and Engineering and other public and private agencies. Later two other CORS were established by the Geomatics Technology program, one at ISU Idaho Falls, and the other at Snake River High School in Blackfoot. In addition, ITD has since established CORS at Rexburg, INL, Driggs, Salmon and several other locations throughout the state. Efforts are in place to connect and coordinate all the CORSs to the server at ISU GIS Center.
The Geomatics Technology program is accredited through the Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, Inc. and uses the latest surveying technology to offer an excellent educational environment with the latest in computers, software and surveying equipment, such as electronic total stations, GPS receivers, data collectors, and soft copy photogrammetric systems. Graduates will earn a Bachelor of Science degree in this program.


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American Pharmacists Month

Released by Idaho State University September 23, 2010
Contact: Andrew Gauss, Director of College Relations, ISU College of Pharmacy, 208-282-3393 or andrew@pharmacy.isu.edu


American Pharmacists Month

ISU College of Pharmacy to provide free flu vaccines to first 50 guests at open house

POCATELLO – In conjunction with American Pharmacist Month, the Idaho State University College of Pharmacy faculty, students and staff will provide flu vaccinations, free of charge, to the first 50 guests who register for adult flu shots during the Pharmacy Open House, slated for Friday, Oct. 1, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the College of Pharmacy, 970 S. Fifth Ave.
These shots are a $30 value. Once the 50 free vaccines have been used, Sav-on Pharmacy will provide additional shots for $20. H1N1, or swine flu immunization is part of the seasonal flu shot this year. Those with ISU health insurance can receive the seasonal immunization, at no deductable cost from their local pharmacy.
“We encourage people to get their seasonal flu immunizations to ensure good immune health,” said ISU President Arthur C. Vailas, who recently joined his wife, Dr. Laura Vailas for an immunization by pharmacy students.
The open house will also feature tours of the College, refreshments and information regarding immunizations, heartburn awareness programs, diabetes education and poison prevention.
Do you have questions about the use of your medications? Consumers with questions about their medications don’t have to worry about where to get information. Pharmacists are their best and most accessible medication experts. Also bring your prescription and over-the-counter medications to the Pharmacy Open House where student pharmacists, assisted by licensed pharmacy faculty members, will answer questions regarding prescriptions.
Sponsored by the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), the theme of American Pharmacists Month, “Know your medicine, Know your pharmacist,” encourages patients to get to know the resources a pharmacist may provide.
For example, did you know that taking your medications properly is one of the best ways to avoid future health care costs? Each year, thousands of people end up in the hospital, fail to get better, and spend more money than they have to simply because they do not take their medication properly, according to APhA.

Pharmacists can educate patients about medications, both prescription and nonprescription. The APhA says that every person should be able to answer several questions before taking any new medication. Many of these questions include the length of time a medication should be taken; does this medication contain anything that can cause an allergic reaction; should alcohol be avoided or any other medicines, foods or activities while taking the medication and several other questions.
APhA says that consumers should expect a higher level of service from today’s pharmacists. Consumers should look to their pharmacists to provide medication-counseling services, including drug regimen reviews and drug interaction checks; coordination of patient care with physicians and other health are providers, and monitoring of side effects. Some pharmacists can also perform limited patient testing, such as cholesterol screening, glucose monitoring and blood pressure checks for serious health-threatening problems.
For more information about the ISU College of Pharmacy Open House, please call 282-3393.
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The Art of Illusion Multimedia works by Anne Merkley and Stan Gates At ISU Transition Gallery Oct. 4-Oct. 27

Released by Idaho State University September 23, 2010
Contact: Corinne McCullough, (208) 282-3451

The Art of Illusion
Multimedia works by Anne Merkley and Stan Gates
At ISU Transition Gallery Oct. 4-Oct. 27

POCATELLO – The Idaho State University Pond Student Union Transition Gallery will present “The Art of Illusion,” multimedia works by Anne Merkley and Stan Gates Oct. 4-27 and hold an opening reception for the exhibit on Monday, Oct. 4, from 7 to 9 p.m.
All art is an illusion, the representation of some greater reality in a two- or three- dimensional form. Anthropology, psychology and religion teach us that throughout the evolutionary development of humankind, creativity, thought and symbolism have been of paramount importance to our survival.
Merkley, a Southeast Idaho native who has studied, produced and taught art for most of her life, works in a number of different media, exploring the potential of each to give form to her vision. Best known for her realistic portraits in watercolor and oil, she often turns to photography to keep up with change. By rearranging and juxtaposing elements, she teases the viewer into seeing more than meets the eye. In this exhibit she layers three different ages of Mexico, from Mayan to Spanish to apocalyptic prophecies of 2012.
For Merkley the thread of continuity in “The Art of Illusion” began with abstract drawings made at age two and carried through photo collages assembled by a cut-and-paste method prior to the existence of Photoshop,
Gates grew up in the West, spending most of his time in Alaska and Wyoming. He was trained and worked as an engineer for 35 years, all the while maintaining a passion for the arts. He has produced the majority of his sculptures over the last five years, many of them on airplanes while flying to and from work in other countries. He creates in clay and in brown wax, then converts pieces into metal, plaster, bronze, or resin-based materials.
Most of Stan’s sculpting is done with his hands. He likes the feel of wax and clay, likes handling it and looking at the figure from different perspectives, both physically and mentally. Because hands are so expressive, he often starts a piece by doing them first, then building the rest of the body to reflect what he sees in them. His pieces reflect images from memory, imagination, and experience.
Today, in the midst of a visual media glut, both Anne and Stan are concerned with maintaining standards of aesthetics and excellence. Stan owns the Gate City Fine Arts Gallery in downtown Pocatello, and Anne regularly receives awards for her work in shows from local to national levels.
The Transition Gallery is located on the first floor of the Pond Student Union. For more information regarding this exhibit, please contact Corinne McCullough at (208) 282-3451.
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Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Greater Pocatello Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours To Host ‘I Love ISU’ Finale Bash Set Sept. 23; Check presentation at 5:45 p.m.

Released by Idaho State University September 22, 2010
Contact: Donald Colby, (208) 282-4883 or Carla Jensen, (208) 282-4787

Greater Pocatello Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours
To Host ‘I Love ISU’ Finale Bash Set Sept. 23; Check presentation at 5:45 p.m.

Pocatello – Plan on attending “The CELEBRATION” of the 28th annual “I Love ISU” scholarship campaign. The ISU Foundation and Watkins Distributors are again teaming up to host the Sept. 23, 2010, Greater Pocatello Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours.
Festivities will be held once again at the Booth Barn, 1100 Booth Drive in Pocatello.
Business After Hours celebrates the successful conclusion of the annual “I Love ISU” scholarship drive each year. The festivities are from 5 to 7 p.m. The annual check presentation will take place at 5:45 p.m. Drawings will be done for door prizes.
The Idaho State University Foundation and Watkins Distributors will provide great food and beverages for all attending. Kelly Rodriguez of STAR 98.5 will again provide music and a remote broadcast of the event.
This is one of the best After Hours of the Year! Mark the date and we will see you Sept. 23!
For additional information on “I Love ISU” contact the ISU Foundation at (208) 282-3470.
Information is also available at the Idaho State University Foundation’s website www.isu.edu/departments/alumni/foundation/iloveisu/.
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Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Idaho State University Awarded $1 Million NSF Grant; ISU, Canadian Museum of Civilization Team Up on Online, Virtual Laboratory

Released by Idaho State University September 20, 2010
Contact: Herbert Maschner, (208) 282-5417, Corey Schou, (208) 282-3194, Matthew Betts (819)-776-8419

Idaho State University Awarded $1 Million NSF Grant;
ISU, Canadian Museum of Civilization Team Up on Online, Virtual Laboratory

POCATELLO – Efforts by Idaho State University and Canadian Museum of Civilization researchers to further create an online, interactive, virtual museum of northern animal bones have been bolstered by a $1,029,232 grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation.
“We are building on the success of our pilot project,” said grant principal investigator Herbert Maschner, ISU anthropology research professor, director of the ISU Center for Archaeology, Materials, and Applied Spectroscopy and interim director of the Idaho Museum of Natural History. “This new National Science Foundation grant will result in a ground-breaking website that will provide the tools necessary to assist more efficient, accurate, and cost-effective analyses of arctic animals by researchers around the world.”
The grant, titled "Virtual Zooarchaeology of the Arctic Project (VZAP): Phase II," was awarded to Idaho State University earlier this month. The grant’s other principal investigators are Corey Schou, Ph.D., professor of information systems and director of the ISU Informatics Research Institute, and Matthew Betts, Ph.D., curator of Atlantic Provinces Archaeology at the Canadian Museum of Civilization and a former postdoctoral researcher at ISU.
This group of researchers used pilot funds from a $310,000 NSF grant received in 2008 to begin creating an online two- and three-dimensional archeological collection of Arctic animal bones, which was built using techniques developed in the Informatics Research Institute and the Idaho Virtualization Laboratory (http://vzap.iri.isu.edu/). The VZAP team has now produced more than 3,000 individual 3D models and more than 12,000 digital photographs, while also developing advanced 3D laser scanning protocols, implementing a robust database, and creating a revolutionary graphical user interface, the Dynamic Image Engine.
Animal bones rec overed from northern archaeological and paleontological sites are often superbly preserved and therefore provide a high-resolution record of ancient human behaviors, climatic regimes, past ecological variability, and animal populations. However, researchers who analyze these materials are significantly hampered by the absence of comprehensive northern-focused vertebrate reference collections, of which only a handful exists in North America. High-resolution reference collections are necessary to adequately identify bone fragments.
“VZAP replicates the complete skeletons of 132 taxa (a grouping of organisms given a formal taxonomic name such as species, genus, family) of northern fish, mammals, and birds, in both 2D and 3D, and delivers them on a unique online database,” Schou said. “A workshop held to demonstrate the functionality of VZAP, and to provide input from the scientific community, resulted in survey data that demonstrate the broad community support for this concept in general, and VZAP in particular.”
The VZAP tools were recently shown in France and are being tracked actively by bloggers.
Phase 2 of VZAP, funded with the new NSF grant, will continue this research.
“We will streamline our 3D scanning with new technologies, we will refine and further upgrade our graphical user interface and database,” Betts said. “And, most importantly, we will complete the scanning and photography of the remaining 76 arctic taxa necessary to complete the VZAP catalogue, and add an additional 145 individuals to the most common and closely related species.”
The broader impacts and intellectual merits of VZAP are considerable.
“As demonstrated by the results of a workshop and user studies, the international archaeological and paleontological communities believe VZAP addresses a significant deficit in the ability of arctic scientists to conduct zooarchaeological and paleontological research,” Maschner said. “We are also developing virtualization strategies and software technologies that are of great utility to the museum, academic, and social science communities. Several important collaborations have already stemmed from this work.”
Schou pointed out that this is complimentary grant to the recent Technology Incentive Grant the project received from the Idaho State Board of Education. Furthermore, Maschner noted that this award has provided the methods and skills necessary to create a virtual museum of the collections in the Idaho Museum of Natural History as well. This is the first large award to be received by the IMNH since Maschner became Interim Director.
More broadly, these researchers are developing an informatics system that promotes outreach and pathways of knowledge for students and casual learners, and provides a resource for K-12 and university instructors to teach northern science in an engaging, interactive, and digital format.
“VZAP democratizes science and provides new research avenues for a broad spectrum of northern scholars by providing general access to collections normally only available to museum staff and advanced researchers,” Maschner said.
“This is a tremendous tool for researchers,” Betts said. “At the same time, the interactive technology and scanning protocols we are developing have significant applicability to the museum communities. This is a system that can be transferred to any heritage collection.“
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Monday, September 20, 2010

ISU Homecoming Award Recipients to Be Honored Sept. 24 At Alumni Recognition Dinner

Released by Idaho State University Sept. 20, 2010
Contact: ISU Office of Alumni Relations, (208) 282-3755

ISU Homecoming Award Recipients to Be Honored Sept. 24
At Alumni Recognition Dinner

Pocatello – Idaho State University will recognize and honor special alumni, faculty and staff at Bengal Homecoming 2010 at the President’s Alumni Recognition Dinner at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 24, at the Red Lion Hotel in Pocatello, 1555 Pocatello Creek Road.
A reception at 6 p.m. precedes the dinner and an award ceremony follows. Those wishing to attend should contact the ISU Alumni Office at (208) 282-3755 or e-mail alumni@isu.edu. The cost is $40 per person.

“We have alumni and friends coming from all parts of the country to honor and acknowledge our award winners,” said K.C. Felt, director of ISU Alumni Relations. “We invite all who want to celebrate Homecoming and our honorees to attend.”
Dr. Ellen Joy Plein is being honored as Distinguished Alumnus; Clarence W. and Velma A.* Byrne are being honored with the William J. Bartz Award; Dr. Corey Schou is being honored with the ISU Achievement Award; Coach Dave Nielsen is being honored with the ISU Distinguished Service Award; Bruce S. Bistline, Senator Robert L. Geddes and William M. Kobus are receiving the President’s Medallion Awards; and David S. Kragthorpe is the recipient of the student selected Homecoming Parade Marshall Award.

For complete biographies of the honorees visit www2.isu.edu/headlines/?p=2743.
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Idaho State University Alumni Homecoming Week Events Planned Sept. 23-25

Released by: Idaho State University September 8, 2010
Written by: Rachel Essinger
Contact: ISU Office of Alumni Relations (800) 933-4781, (208) 282-3755 or alumni@isu.edu; or ASISU (208) 282-3435

Idaho State University Alumni Homecoming Week Events Planned Sept. 23-25

POCATELLO – Idaho State University’s Homecoming 2010 with the theme “The Year of the Tiger” will feature a variety of ISU Alumni events culminating Sept. 25 with the Homecoming Parade at 10 a.m. and football game at 3:35 p.m in Holt Arena.
“Homecoming this year promises to be one to remember,” said K.C. Felt, director of Alumni Relations. “Our award recipients are an extraordinary group of individuals whose support and commitment to Idaho State is remarkable. We have a full slate of enjoyable events planned for alumni and friends and are anxious to welcome all back to campus and especially our 1963 championship football team reunion group.”
For more information on Alumni Relations events, call (208) 282-3755, visit www.isu.edu/alumni/homecoming.shtml or e-mail alumni@isu.edu. Below is a listing of ISU Homecoming events sponsored by the ISU Office of Alumni Relations and the ISU Alumni Association.
• Thursday, Sept. 23:
• 7-10 p.m. – Alumni Homecoming Kickoff Celebration at Pinehurst Nursery and Floral, 4101 Pole Line Road, (just off N. Yellowstone Ave) in Pocatello. Cost is $20 per person. Reservations requested, please contact (800) 933-4781, (208) 282-3755 or alumni@isu.edu.
• Friday, Sept. 24:
• 10-11:15 a.m. – Free Bengal Bus Tour starting at PSUB theater entrance. Reservations requested, please contact (800) 933-4781, (208) 282-3755 or alumni@isu.edu.
• 11:45 a.m.-1 pm. – Founder’s and Golden Bengal Luncheon in the Wood River Room of the PSUB. Reservations requested, please contact (800) 933-4781, (208) 282-3755 or alumni@isu.edu.
• 6-7 p.m. – Past Alumni Board Presidents’ Reception, pool-side in Suite 109 at Pocatello Red Lion Hotel
6 p.m. – Presidents’ Alumni Recognition Reception and Dinner in the Main Ballroom of the Pocatello Red Lion Hotel. Scheduled events include a reception at 6 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m. and Recognition of Alumni Award recipients at 8 p.m. Cost is $40 per person. Reservations requested, please contact (800) 933-4781, (208) 282-3755 or alumni@isu.edu.
• Saturday, Sept. 25:
• 10 a.m.-noon – Homecoming Parade through downtown Pocatello, ending at Holt Arena parking lot
• Immediately following the parade – Bengal Tailgate Celebration in Holt Arena parking lot. This year’s competition will judge the best recipe for “Jacked-Up Bengal Burgers.”
• 3:35 p.m. – Homecoming football game in Holt Arena versus the Northern Arizona Lumberjacks with Homecoming Award recipients recognition at halftime.
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Released by: Idaho State University September 10, 2010
Written by: Rachel Essinger; Contact: Val Davids, ISU Student Activities Board, 282-3435

Idaho State University Student Homecoming Events Planned Sept. 20-25

POCATELLO – Idaho State University’s Homecoming 2010 with the theme “The Year of the Tiger” will feature a variety of ISU Student Activities Board events culminating Sept. 25 with a Homecoming parade at 10 a.m. and a football game Sept. 25 at 3:35 p.m.
“Homecoming is a great way to meet new students and participate in spirit events,” said Tara Loving, Student Activities Board marketing chair. “This year we have some traditional events, as well as, some new and exciting ones. We would love to have as many people show their Bengal pride during our Homecoming Week”.
For more information on ISU Student Activities Board events, call (208) 282-3451 or visit www.isu.edu/homecoming/, or e-mail alumni@isu.edu. Below is a listing of ISU Homecoming events sponsored by ISU Student Activities Board. A separate news release will detail information on ISU Alumni Association Homecoming Events.
ISU Student Activities Board Homecoming events include:
• Monday, Sept. 20:
• 10 a.m. – Spirit Log Hunt/Breakfast at the PSUB Amphitheater
• 3 p.m. – Powder Puff Football on Hutchinson Quad
• 5:30 p.m. – Street Painting at PSUB parking lot
• Tuesday, Sept. 21:
• Noon – Build a Bengal in the PSUB Wood River Room
• 7 p.m. – Royalty Pageant in the PSUB Ballroom
• Wednesday, Sept. 22:
•Noon – Spelling Bee on Hutchinson Quad
• 9 p.m. – Bonfire at Holt Arena parking lot
• Thursday, Sept. 23:
• Noon – Dip Competition in the Rendezvous
• 8 p.m. – Homecoming Concert featuring Sara Bareilles in PSUB Ballroom
• Friday, Sept. 24:
• Noon – Sumo Wrestling on Hutchinson Quad
• 7 p.m. – Homecoming Dance in PSUB Ballroom
• Midnight – True Bengal at Red Hill Columns
• Saturday, Sept. 25:
• 10 a.m.-noon – Homecoming Parade through downtown Pocatello, ending at Holt Arena parking lot
• 2 pm – Student Tailgate at Holt Arena west side
• 3:35 p.m. – Homecoming football game in Holt Arena versus the Northern Arizona Lumberjacks.
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Guitarist, Singer Eric Bibb Back by Popular Demand For ISU “Season of Note” Series

Released by: Idaho State University Sept. 20, 2010
Written by: Rachel Essinger
Contact: Stephens Performing Arts Center Box Office, (208) 282-3595

Guitarist, Singer Eric Bibb Back by Popular Demand
For ISU “Season of Note” Series

POCATELLO – Eric Bibb, internationally known guitarist and singer, will present a concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9, in the Joseph C. and Cheryl H. Jensen Grand Concert Hall of the L.E. and Thelma E. Stephens Performing Arts Center.
The concert is part of the Idaho State University 2010-11 “A Season of Note” concert series. Bibb is famous for his blues, gospel, folk and New Orleans R&B roots music. Bibb last performed at ISU in 2008 as part of the “Season of Note” series.
“Bibb’s voice is a sweet, smoky baritone, and his finger-picking style is understated, coloring his songs rather than adding technical flash,” noted a reviewer from the Austin American States referring to Bibb’s recording “Get Onboard.” “The quieter, more reflective aspect of the blues doesn’t get a lot of attention, but when Bibb plays, blues and gospel can become one glorious whole.”
Nominated for nine W. C. Handy Blues Music Awards and winner of the “Best Newcomer” title in the British Blues Awards, Bibb has been appropriately described as “discreetly awesome” and “a total original.” In the words of “House of Blues Radio Hour” host Elwood Blues,“You are what the blues of the new century should be about.”
More information on Bibb is available at www.ericbibb.com.
Tickets are $20 main level, $16 upper level and can be purchased at the Stephens Performing Arts Center Box Office online at www.isu.edu/tickets or by calling (208) 282-3595. They can also be purchased at the Vickers Stores in Pocatello and Idaho Falls.
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Idaho State University to Host USA Science Festival Oct. 23

Released by Idaho State University September 19, 2010
Contact: Linda DeVeaux at deveaux@iac.isu.edu or 282-5661, Caryn Evilia at evilcary@isu.edu or 282-3291, Jean Pfau, at pfaujean@isu.edu or 282-3914

Idaho State University to Host USA Science Festival Oct. 23;
Deadline for Entering Festival Hands-On Science Booth is Oct. 1

POCATELLO – Idaho State University’s Pocatello campus is hosting the 2010 Idaho Science and Engineering Festival on Oct 23 and is looking for additional groups to host scientific demonstration booths. The deadline for booth applications is Oct. 1.
The Idaho festival is a satellite event that corresponds with the inaugural national USA Science and Engineering Festival being held in Washington, D.C., Oct. 10-24. The national festival ends with a two-day Expo on the Mall, which will feature 1,500 booths with hands-on activities from more than 500 organizations. There are also concurrent satellite science/engineering festivals taking place throughout the United States, but ISU’s festival is the only one scheduled in the Intermountain West.
“This is our nation’s first national science festival, and we are proud to be part of it,” said Linda DeVeaux, ISU associate biology professor and one of the ISU event’s three organizers. “Eventually, this may be celebrated statewide, but for now we’re looking for strong participation in our area. The goal of the festival locally and nationally is to present hands-on, fun science activities to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.”
Its organizers are billing the national festival as “the ultimate multi-cultural, multi-generational and multi-disciplinary celebration of science in the United States.” ISU satellite festival sponsors include Micron Foundation, ON Semiconducter, Idaho National Laboratory – INL and Simplot.
The Pocatello event has about 20 organizations that have signed up to host booths from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Pond Student Union Ballroom. There is space to accommodate about a dozen more booths. School children of all ages and their families are invited to attend this free event. Area school groups are also invited to attend.
“We are looking for interested individuals and departments to put up booths about their brand of science or engineering,” said Caryn Evilia, ISU assistant professor of biology and chemistry. “One requirement for the booth is that it has hands-on activities for kids. These activities should assume up to a 10th grade understanding of science concepts. We also invite local government agencies to participate in this event by setting up demonstrations.”

Besides helping to organize the local festival, DeVeaux will be representing Idaho State University at the national festival in Washington, D.C. DeVeaux will be in a booth that demonstrates accelerator technology, a technology DeVeaux uses to carry out studies on radiation-resistant microbes.
For more information on the national festival, visit http://www.usasciencefestival.org/; for more information on the ISU festival, visit www.isu.edu/departments/bios/USA_Science_Engineering.shtml or contact DeVeaux (deveaux@iac.isu.edu or 282-5661), Evilia (deveaux@iac.isu.edu or 282-5661) or Jean Pfau (pfaujean@isu.edu or 282-3914).
For information on what makes a good booth, visit http://www.usasciencefestival.org/images/files/What_Makes_a_Good%20Exhibit_1_10_10.pdf.
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Friday, September 17, 2010

Idaho Museum of Natural History Announces Docent Training Schedule for Fall

Released by: Idaho Museum of Natural History September 17, 2010
Written by: Rachel Essinger
Contact: Rebecca A. Thorne – Ferrel, Education Resources Manager, (208) 208-2195

Idaho Museum of Natural History Announces Docent Training Schedule for Fall

POCATELLO – Beginning Oct. 7, the Idaho Museum of Natural History will hold docent training classes for individuals interested in working with the museum.
A docent is a volunteer teacher who learns about the museum’s exhibits and presents the information to visitors and school groups. Docents at the Idaho Museum of Natural History will learn about Idaho’s past through the rocks, landscape, fossils, prehistoric peoples and wildlife.
The docent training is scheduled 1-4 p.m. Oct. 7, Oct. 21, Nov. 4, Nov. 18, Dec. 3 and Dec. 16. It is open to the public for no charge.
The instructors will be Rebecca A. Thorne, Scott Davis, Janet Bala, Herb Maschner and David Fortsch.
Specific themes that will be covered in these training sessions include “Geologic Building Blocks: Minerals & Gem Stones,” “Earth’s Geologic Time: Eons of Information” and “Rock On & On!!: Earth’s Geologic Rock Cycle.”
For more information, contact Thorne-Ferrel at (208) 282-2195 or thorrebe@isu.edu.
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National News Website Ranks Idaho State University Seventh Safest College Campus in the United States

Released by Idaho State University September 17, 2010
Contact: Stephen Chatterton, director of public safety, (208) 282-2515

National News Website Ranks Idaho State University
Seventh Safest College Campus in the United States

POCATELLO – Idaho State University has been ranked the seventh safest campus in the United States by The Daily Beast, a national news website.
This is the second consecutive year that ISU was ranked as one of the 10 safest campuses in the nation.
This is the Daily Beast’s second-annual ranking of the safest and most dangerous colleges in the U.S. It used the “three most recent calendar years of campus security and crime data (2006-2008) compiled by the U.S. Department of Education, as well as the FBI and the Secret Service, in conjunction with the Clery Act, the federal mandate requiring all schools that receive federal funding to disclose crime information annually.” The report reflects incidents reported to campus or local police, not convictions.
Different crimes were weighted again each other. For example, murder carried more importance than burglary. Incidents both on-campus and nearby were considered.
“We have great support and assistance from the Pocatello Police Department, their officers and their Neighborhood Watch program,” said Stephen Chatterton, ISU director of public safety. “Our Public Safety staff is dedicated and works hard at keeping the campus safe. Our students, staff and faculty are the best, their support and attitude toward campus safety makes the difference in the quality of our campus atmosphere
The Daily Beast ranked Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee, Wisc., as the safest University in the United States. For a complete list of the 50 safest colleges visit the website listed below.
The Daily Beast has also ranked the 50 colleges with the worst safety rankings.
To view the report go to www.thedailybeast.com and type “safest colleges” in the site’s search engine. The complete website address is http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsmaker/college-safety-rankings?cid=hp:mainpromo7.
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Davis Gallery to Host Commemorative Print Exchange Portfolio

Released by: Idaho State University September 17, 2010
Written by: Rachel Essinger
Contact: Amy Jo Poppa, Gallery Director, (208) 282-3341

Davis Gallery to Host Commemorative Print Exchange Portfolio

POCATELLO – Idaho State University’s John B. Davis Gallery will host “Reunion: Images of 2010,” a portfolio of prints commemorating the 20th anniversary of the “Images 1990” print, from Sept. 21 through Oct. 15.
The opening reception will be held Monday, Sept. 20, 6-8 p.m. Gallery hours are Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Davis Gallery is located in the ISU Fine Arts Building, Building No. 11 on ISU maps.
For more information about this exhibit and Davis Gallery visit www.isu.edu/art/galleries.shtml.
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What’s New About Recycling at ISU?

Released by Idaho State University September 16, 2010
Contact: Donna Lybecker. 282-3331 or Mark McBeth, 282-2740

What’s New About Recycling at ISU?
ISU Faculty, Staff, Students Respond to Survey

POCATELLO – Idaho State University Department of Political Science faculty members Donna Lybecker and Mark McBeth recently completed a grant from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) that involved both studying recycling and educating the campus community about recycling.
In late spring 2010, the two conducted their second recycling survey sending an e-mail survey to all ISU faculty, staff and students. They received responses from 1,656 ISU faculty, staff and students. Their findings indicate that 77 percent of the ISU community views ISU having a recycling program as important.
Despite this view of the importance of recycling, 65 percent of the ISU community is unsatisfied with ISU’s current recycling program. Respondents indicated in both the survey questions and comments that dissatisfaction with recycling rests with the inconvenience that comes from a lack of available of recycling bins, inadequate signage, and inconsistent pick up of recycling materials. Ninety percent of respondents supported an expanded ISU recycling program.
As part of the USEPA grant, Lybecker and McBeth were able to purchase recycling bins for several offices and working with Bill MacLachlan, associate director of Campus Recreation, they were able to outfit Reed Gym and the new Student Recreation Center with recycling bins as a way to conduct a pilot study of the feasibility of co-mingled recycling at ISU.
There are still some bins remaining and interested departments and offices can contact Lybecker and McBeth for details. MacLachlan is currently collecting recyclable materials using the City of Pocatello’s co-mingled recycling program. The Reed Gym and Student Recreation Center projects have produced a lot of discussion about the future of recycling at ISU.
Currently, the ISU Recycling Committee is working with the ISU Administration to expand recycling efforts. The committee is comprised of Lybecker, McBeth, MacLachlan, Glenn Thackray in the ISU geosciences department, Shannon Ansley with the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality and Linda Burke, retired ISU staff member.
A study spearheaded by Thackray (http://geology.isu.edu/thackray/ISU_Recycling/) presented several cost neutral options for recycling and was presented to the administration in the spring. A meeting this summer indicated that the university community should be seeing some of these new efforts at recycling in coming months.
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Thursday, September 16, 2010

Idaho State University Letter from the President

September 16, 2010

Dear Friend of Idaho State University,

When a community pulls together, amazing things can happen.

Last month, the Pocatello community was able to witness this first-hand when more than 3,000 volunteers, including members of our ISU community, came together, with the assistance of the television show, “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” to build a new house for the Marshall-Spreier family, who had lost their home in a fire.

The event brought an amazing display of community support, one of the biggest in Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’s history. I’m proud to say that more than 1,000 of those volunteers came from Idaho State University. Students, faculty and staff did work from helping to construct the home to raising money for the family and cleaning up the neighborhood after the show left.

One of my favorite moments during the weeklong event was when Laura and I were able to present eight of the Spreier children with scholarships to Idaho State University. The family was grateful, and we received a heartwarming feeling knowing that Idaho State University was able to relieve some stress in their family and share the great educational opportunity we can provide.

Idaho State University is a part of both the local and global community, and our students, faculty and staff show it each day. Whether it’s in Peru, where students and faculty work with the Idaho Condor Humanitarian Project to bring medical necessities to the country’s poorest residents, or at home, where student groups raise money for various local organizations, we do our best to help others.

Last year, students from the College of Pharmacy used proceeds from a spaghetti fundraiser dinner to fulfill the wish of a teen suffering from cystic fibrosis through the Make A Wish Foundation. The Idaho State University Department of Dental Hygiene and ISU Department of Dental Sciences participate annually in “Give Kids a Smile” Day, where they, along with others, provide dental care to children who otherwise wouldn’t receive services. Dental hygiene students also offered free services at the 2009 Special Olympics Winter World Games in Boise.

We care about our community and our world, and our students, faculty and staff are making it a better place. This week, you can also make a difference in the lives of students when a volunteer from the I Love ISU campaign calls. On September 20-23, volunteers will be calling members of the community and asking for support for scholarships. It is a wonderful way to help the future business leaders, teachers, health care workers, artists and scientists along their educational journey.

Go Bengals!


Arthur C. Vailas, Ph.D.
President
Idaho State University
president@isu.edu

Leading in opportunity and innovation

The Letter from the President archive is available on the Web site for the Idaho State University Office of the President. The site also includes special events, a photo gallery, presidential addresses, information about the President's Cabinet, contact information and more. Visit anytime!

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Idaho State University Has New Initiatives to Foster Technical Transfer, Provide Data to Idaho Business

Released by Idaho State University September 15, 2010
Contact: Richard Jacobsen, technology transfer, (208) 282-4191 or Sam Peterson, Bengal Solutions, (208) 282-2966

Idaho State University Has New Initiatives to Foster
Technical Transfer, Provide Data to Idaho Business

POCATELLO – Idaho State University has announced new commitments to increase economic development and to partner with business and other government agencies. The University has created new technology transfer services and the College of Business has unveiled Bengal Solutions, which can provide a variety of services, including market research, to Idaho businesses.
“We have new initiatives in place for technological and commercial transfer of patents, business startups and intellectual property,” said Pamela Crowell, ISU Vice President for Research and Economic Development. “We’re going to work closely with faculty to provide the tools and resources they need to get their ideas to the marketplace.”
ISU technology transfer operations include partnering with industry, government entities and other education institutions to increase economic and intellectual cooperation. This partnership will help develop new products and services. The office will help with licensing of University-developed technologies to existing companies, and with forming start-up companies based upon the work of students and faculty as new businesses, contributing to the economic development of the region.
ISU engineering Professor Richard Jacobsen has been selected to lead ISU technology transfer operations. Jacobsen also serves as the associate director for the Center for Advanced Energy Studies in Idaho Falls, and was the dean of the ISU College of Engineering from 2006-10. He is also the former dean and associate dean of the University of Idaho College of Engineering. He was also been on the Board of Directors for the Idaho Research Foundation, was the director for the UI Center for Applied Thermodynamic Studies and was the chief scientist at the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (now INL).
“There is a tremendous amount of potential for technical transfer from Idaho State University’s medical and pharmacy programs and there are opportunities for engineers and scientists in many other programs and disciplines, from biological sciences to computer science, to get their ideas into the market place,” Jacobsen said.
“The relationship,” continued Jacobsen, “between research and technology transfer is real. It is a matter of helping people know what their options are and recognizing, crediting and protecting the entrepreneurial efforts of our faculty and students.”

To help with technology transfer and other areas, the University has hired Darlene Gerry in ISU’s Office of General Counsel. Gerry, ISU associate general counsel, has an extensive background intellectual property creation and licensing transactions. She spent 13 years working as an in-house counsel for IBM and is a former Senior Vice President and General Counsel of AMI Semiconductor.
The creation of Bengal Solutions complements Idaho State University’s new efforts to bolster the economic success of the region. Bengal Solutions provides additional business services to ISU researchers interested in commercializing technologies and intellectual property, utilizing the talent of MBA students and faculty in the ISU College of Business. It also completes market, technology and competitor assessments for regional businesses.
“We see Bengal Solutions as a real important direction for what ISU is doing and what we’re doing for our students in the College of Business and for regional businesses,” said Kregg Aytes, associate dean of the College of Business. “It is important for our students to work in a real-world situation and it is important the College of Business shows we are relevant to the business community.”
Bengal Solutions ensures the quality of its products through faculty, mentors and client feedback.
Bengal Solutions partners with the Eastern Idaho Entrepreneurial Center, commonly referred to as the E-Center. The E-Center is a nonprofit organization founded in 2006, and collaborates with both ISU and Brigham Young University - Idaho in economic development efforts. The center connects students and faculty with regional business and provides short-term, low-cost professional consulting services.
For more information on the ISU Office of Technology Transfer, contact Jacobsen at (208) 282-4191 or jacorich@isu.edu.
For more information on Bengal Solutions, contact Sam Peterson at (208) 282-2966 or petesam@isuledu, or contact Aytes at (208) 282-3357 or aytekreg@isu.edu.
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80th Year Celebration SEASON! “ You Can’t Take It With You”

80th Year Celebration SEASON!
“ You Can’t Take It With You”

Viewer’s Choice Winner!


Stephens Performing Arts Center – Beverly B. Bistline Theatre

October 1, 2, 7, 8, & 9, 2010 @ 7:30pm



The L.E. & Thelma E. Stephens Performing Arts Center will host Theatre ISU’s 80th Year Celebration Season beginning with the Viewer’s Choice Winner, “You Can’t Take It With You” opening Friday, October 1, 2010 at 7:30p.m. in the Beverly B. Bistline Theatre.
Theatre has a long and rich tradition at Idaho State University and this year marks their 80th year on campus. To celebrate and kick things off, Theatre ISU will revive the 1930’s Pulitzer Prize winning comedy, “You Can’t Take It With You.” First performed on Frazier Hall’s stage in 1939, Theatre ISU is taking another crack at this hilarious fan favorite.
A cast of wonderful eccentrics offers a recipe for true happiness in life – all framed in the context of the Great Depression. “You Can’t Take It With You” is a great reminder that life should be lived to the fullest, and that happiness will always prevail in the end. If you’ve never seen this play, it’s time to acquaint yourself with this classic American play. If you’re familiar with the play, we trust you’ll return to visit a cast full of old and dear friends!
“You Can’t Take It With You” runs October 1, 2, 7, 8, & 9, 2010 at 7:30pm and tickets are available NOW at the Performing Arts Center box office, or by phone at 282-3595. You can even order ON-LINE at www.isu.edu/tickets or at Vickers Western Stores in Pocatello and Idaho Falls. Adults $15; Children ages6-12 $9 and ISU Students w/Bengal card are just $7!


ISU PRESS RELEASE

Contact: Erin Joy, Box Office Manager
Theatre/Dance ISU – 282-6452

Idaho State University Professor Blanton Receives Nutritional Research Grant From Idaho Beef Council; Study Volunteers Needed

Released by Idaho State University September 15, 2010
Contact: Cynthia Blanton, (208) 282-3953

Idaho State University Professor Blanton Receives Nutritional Research Grant
From Idaho Beef Council; Study Volunteers Needed

POCATELLO – Idaho State University dietetics assistant professor Cynthia Blanton has been awarded a $91,000 grant from the Idaho Beef Council and is looking for 75 female undergraduate students to participate in her study.
Blanton is studying the effect of nutrition on cognitive performance. She will track female undergraduate students ages 19 to 30 for 16-week periods over the next 20 months, completing the study within in two years
The ISU dietetics professor previously completed a study that demonstrated that poor nutritional status negatively affected cognition in university women.
“Now I am performing an intervention to test how to solve the problem,” Blanton said.
The women study participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: One that eats beef and another that eats non-beef meats. At the beginning and end of the study the volunteers will complete cognitive tests and will also have their blood drawn to test their nutritional status.
In between, volunteers will receive three meals a week at the Dietetics Foods Laboratory located in Albion Hall, the north wing of the ISU College of Education. The volunteers who complete the entire 16-week study will receive $135.
For more information on the study or to volunteer, contact Blanton at blancynt@isu.edu or call (208) 282-3953. The ISU Family Medicine Clinical Research Center is also participating with the study by helping to recruit students. Prospective volunteers may also contact the clinic’s Katie Gamble at katieg@fmed.isu.edu or (208) 282-2257.
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Bicentennial Chopin Celebration Featuring ISU’s Neiwirth, Bond Set Sept. 25 in Pocatello, Oct. 18 in Blackfoot

Released by Idaho State University September 15, 2010
Contact: ISU Music Department, (208) 282-3636

Bicentennial Chopin Celebration Featuring ISU’s Neiwirth, Bond
Set Sept. 25 in Pocatello, Oct. 18 in Blackfoot

POCATELLO – The Idaho State University Department of Music’s Mark Neiwirth and Kori Bond will perform the complete works by Frédéric Chopin (1810-1849) in celebration of the bicentennial year of his birth on Sept. 25 in Pocatello and Oct. 18 in Blackfoot.
The Pocatello concert will be in the Joseph C. and Cheryl H. Jensen Grand Concert Hall in the L.E. and Thelma E. Stephens Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 25.
The same concert will be performed at the Blackfoot Performing Arts Center (www.blackfootpac.com) at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 18.
This will be the final concert of three this year in which Neiwirth and Bond have performed works to celebrate major birthdays. The others featured works by Robert Schumann and Samuel Barber. Most pianists consider Chopin to be among the very greatest of composers for the piano, and audiences around the world have been thrilled by performances of his works for nearly 200 years.
The first half of the concert will feature Bond performing the complete 24 Preludes, Op. 28. These are short character pieces in each of the 24 keys, which cover the gamut in human emotions and contrasting characteristics. Many of the pieces are virtuosic etudes, inspired by the capabilities of the piano and the preludes of J.S. Bach’s Well-Tempered Clavier. Others are slow, poetic and intimate. They are all masterfully written and highly popular in performance.
Neiwirth with perform the four Scherzi for the second half of the concert. These are larger scale concert pieces that feature many contrasts within each piece. Like the Preludes, they require a vast array of pianistic techniques and incredible endurance to perform as a whole set. The greatest concert pianists typically have one or two of these pieces in their repertoire because audiences love to listen to scherzi, and they are a great tour-de-force for the pianist.
Bond and Neiwirth are piano faculty in the Idaho State University Department of Music. They both perform nationally as soloists, chamber musicians, and concerto performers. Their biographies can be viewed at the ISU music department website at www.isu.edu/music.

Tickets for the ISU concert on Sept. 25 are $10 for the general public, $7 for faculty and staff, $5 for pre-college students, and free for ISU students with a valid Bengal ID card. Tickets are be available at the Stephens Center Box Office and can be purchased directly before the concert, by calling (208) 282-3959 or online at www.isu.edu/tickets/.
Ticket information for the Blackfoot concert is available at www.blackfootpac.com.
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Holiday Card Contest Open to ISU Students; Top Prize is $1,000 Scholarship

Released by University Relations September 15, 2009
Contact: ISU President’s Office, 282-4798, or e-mail johnally@isu.edu

Holiday Card Contest Open to ISU Students;
Top Prize is $1,000 Scholarship

Pocatello – Idaho State University undergraduate and graduate students can enter a contest to create the design for this year’s ISU holiday card. The contest winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship, the runner up a $500 scholarship.
The deadline for entries is 5 p.m. Oct. 11 and the winning selection will be announced by Oct. 15. Entrants should try to capture the spirit and beauty of the holiday season, while thematically incorporating ISU. The winning entry will appear on the University holiday card, which is sent to thousands of University family members and supporters.
Contest rules are:
• Entries must be a drawing or painting. No photographs or computer-generated design. Acceptable mediums include, but are not limited to, watercolor, oil, acrylic, pastel.
• No black and white entries will be accepted.
• Art can be vertical or horizontal 16”x10.5”.
• Contest is open to all ISU graduate and undergraduate students, both part time and full time.
• Entering an art piece allows ISU to use all images in print and/or on the Web.
• The winning entry will be announced by 5 p.m. Oct. 15 and becomes property of ISU. The University reserves the right to abstain from selecting a winner if entries do not meet quality standards.
All entries must be turned in to the President’s Office by 5 p.m. on Oct. 11. No entries will be accepted after that time. All entries, except the winning entry, can be picked up in the President’s Office between Oct. 15 and Oct. 29. All entries not picked up by
Oct. 29 become the property of Idaho State University.
For more information, contact the ISU President’s Office at (208) 282-4798, or e-mail
johnally@isu.edu with any questions.
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ISU Graduate Art Student Presentations Set at 4 p.m. Sept. 16

Released by Idaho State University September 14, 2010
Contact: Angie Zielinksi, zielange@isu.edu, or at 282-3229.

ISU Graduate Art Student Presentations
Set at 4 p.m. Sept. 16

POCATELLO – The third annual Idaho State University Graduate Art Student Presentations will be from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 16, in Room 401 of the ISU Fine Arts Building
The ISU Department of Art and Pre-Architecture invites the faculty, staff and students of ISU and the greater Pocatello Community to attend.
Each student will show images and discuss the direction of their current work. There will be time for a few questions after each student, and longer discussions are encouraged after the event.
For more information, contact Angie Zielinski at zielange@isu.edu or 282-3229.


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Idaho State University Listed by G.I. Jobs As Military Friendly School For Second Consecutive Year

Released by Idaho State University September 14, 2010
Contact: Casey Santee, Veterans Sanctuary Coordinator, (208) 282-4298

Idaho State University Listed by G.I. Jobs As Military Friendly School
For Second Consecutive Year

POCATELLO – Idaho State University is listed as a Military Friendly School by G.I. Jobs for the second consecutive year.
The recently announced list honors the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools that are doing the most to embrace America’s veterans as students. Schools on the list range from state universities and private colleges to community colleges and trade schools. The common bond is their shared priority for recruiting students with military experience.
“We’re pleased to have made this list,” said Casey Santee, coordinator of the Idaho State University Veterans’ Sanctuary Program. “This program is a campus and community partnership that works because of the passion of the people involved. We strive to help veterans transition into college life and we promise to support them until they graduate. This award is also a testament to our student veterans, who continue to prove through service projects, and in countless other ways, that they are truly our nation’s future leaders.”
Colleges have long coveted veterans in the classroom. Dorothy Bassett, dean of Duquesne University’s School of Leadership and Professional Advancement, a Military Friendly School, points out some of those reasons: “Military students bring a high degree of maturity, life experiences, diversity, leadership and worldliness to the classroom. Other students and faculty benefit from the different perspectives that service members and veterans bring.”
The tens of billions of dollars in tuition money, now available with the recent passage of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, has intensified an already strong desire by colleges to court veterans into their classrooms.
“This list is especially important now because the recently enacted Post-9/11 GI Bill has given veterans virtually unlimited financial means to go to school,” said Rich McCormack, G.I. Jobs publisher. “Veterans can now enroll in any school, provided they’re academically qualified. So schools are clamoring for them like never before. Veterans need a trusted friend to help them decide where to get educated. The Military Friendly Schools list is that trusted friend.”
Schools on the Military Friendly Schools list also offer additional benefits to student veterans such as on-campus veterans programs, credit for service, military-spouse programs and more.
The list was compiled through exhaustive research starting last May, during which G.I. Jobs polled more than 7,000 schools nationwide. Methodology, criteria and weighting for the list were developed with the assistance of an Academic Advisory Committee (AAC) consisting of educators and administrators from Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Toledo, Duquesne University, Coastline Community College and Lincoln Technical Institute.
A full story and detailed list of Military Friendly Schools will be highlighted in the annual Guide to Military Friendly Schools and on a poster, both of which will be distributed to hundreds of thousands of active and former military personnel in September.
A new Web site, found at www.militaryfriendlyschools.com, will launch in September with interactive tools and search functionality to assist military veterans in choosing schools that best meet their educational needs. Criteria for making the Military Friendly Schools list included efforts to recruit and retain military and veteran students, results in recruiting military and veteran students and academic accreditations.
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Idaho State University Student Homecoming Events Planned Sept. 20-25

Released by: Idaho State University September 10, 2010
Written by: Rachel Essinger; Contact: Val Davids, ISU Student Activities Board, 282-3435

Idaho State University Student Homecoming Events Planned Sept. 20-25

POCATELLO – Idaho State University’s Homecoming 2010 with the theme “The Year of the Tiger” will feature a variety of ISU Student Activities Board events culminating Sept. 25 with a Homecoming parade at 10 a.m. and a football game Sept. 25 at 3:35 p.m.
“Homecoming is a great way to meet new students and participate in spirit events,” said Tara Loving, Student Activities Board marketing chair. “This year we have some traditional events, as well as, some new and exciting ones. We would love to have as many people show their Bengal pride during our Homecoming Week”.
For more information on ISU Student Activities Board events, call (208) 282-3451 or visit www.isu.edu/homecoming/, or e-mail alumni@isu.edu. Below is a listing of ISU Homecoming events sponsored by ISU Student Activities Board. A separate news release will detail information on ISU Alumni Association Homecoming Events.
ISU Student Activities Board Homecoming events include:
• Monday, Sept. 20:
• 10 a.m. – Spirit Log Hunt/Breakfast at the PSUB Amphitheater
• 3 p.m. – Powder Puff Football on Hutchinson Quad
• 5:30 p.m. – Street Painting at PSUB parking lot
• Tuesday, Sept. 21:
• Noon – Build a Bengal in the PSUB Wood River Room
• 7 p.m. – Royalty Pageant in the PSUB Ballroom
• Wednesday, Sept. 22:
•Noon – Spelling Bee on Hutchinson Quad
• 9 p.m. – Bonfire at Holt Arena parking lot
• Thursday, Sept. 23:
• Noon – Dip Competition in the Rendezvous
• 8 p.m. – Homecoming Concert featuring Sara Bareilles in PSUB Ballroom
• Friday, Sept. 24:
• Noon – Sumo Wrestling on Hutchinson Quad
• 7 p.m. – Homecoming Dance in PSUB Ballroom
• Midnight – True Bengal at Red Hill Columns
• Saturday, Sept. 25:
• 10 a.m.-noon – Homecoming Parade through downtown Pocatello, ending at Holt Arena parking lot
• 2 pm – Student Tailgate at Holt Arena west side
• 3:35 p.m. – Homecoming football game in Holt Arena versus the Northern Arizona Lumberjacks.
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Idaho State University Alumni Homecoming Week Events Planned Sept. 23-25

Released by: Idaho State University September 8, 2010
Written by: Rachel Essinger
Contact: ISU Office of Alumni Relations (800) 933-4781, (208) 282-3755 or alumni@isu.edu; or ASISU (208) 282-3435

Idaho State University Alumni Homecoming Week Events Planned Sept. 23-25

POCATELLO – Idaho State University’s Homecoming 2010 with the theme “The Year of the Tiger” will feature a variety of ISU Alumni events culminating Sept. 25 with the Homecoming Parade at 10 a.m. and football game at 3:35 p.m in Holt Arena.
“Homecoming this year promises to be one to remember,” said K.C. Felt, director of Alumni Relations. “Our award recipients are an extraordinary group of individuals whose support and commitment to Idaho State is remarkable. We have a full slate of enjoyable events planned for alumni and friends and are anxious to welcome all back to campus and especially our 1963 championship football team reunion group.”
For more information on Alumni Relations events, call (208) 282-3755, visit www.isu.edu/alumni/homecoming.shtml or e-mail alumni@isu.edu. Below is a listing of ISU Homecoming events sponsored by the ISU Office of Alumni Relations and the ISU Alumni Association.
• Thursday, Sept. 23:
• 7-10 p.m. – Alumni Homecoming Kickoff Celebration at Pinehurst Nursery and Floral, 4101 Pole Line Road, (just off N. Yellowstone Ave) in Pocatello. Cost is $20 per person. Reservations requested, please contact (800) 933-4781, (208) 282-3755 or alumni@isu.edu.
• Friday, Sept. 24:
• 10-11:15 a.m. – Free Bengal Bus Tour starting at PSUB theater entrance. Reservations requested, please contact (800) 933-4781, (208) 282-3755 or alumni@isu.edu.
• 11:45 a.m.-1 pm. – Founder’s and Golden Bengal Luncheon in the Wood River Room of the PSUB. Reservations requested, please contact (800) 933-4781, (208) 282-3755 or alumni@isu.edu.
• 6-7 p.m. – Past Alumni Board Presidents’ Reception, pool-side in Suite 109 at Pocatello Red Lion Hotel
6 p.m. – Presidents’ Alumni Recognition Reception and Dinner in the Main Ballroom of the Pocatello Red Lion Hotel. Scheduled events include a reception at 6 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m. and Recognition of Alumni Award recipients at 8 p.m. Cost is $40 per person. Reservations requested, please contact (800) 933-4781, (208) 282-3755 or alumni@isu.edu.
• Saturday, Sept. 25:
• 10 a.m.-noon – Homecoming Parade through downtown Pocatello, ending at Holt Arena parking lot
• Immediately following the parade – Bengal Tailgate Celebration in Holt Arena parking lot. This year’s competition will judge the best recipe for “Jacked-Up Bengal Burgers.”
• 3:35 p.m. – Homecoming football game in Holt Arena versus the Northern Arizona Lumberjacks with Homecoming Award recipients recognition at halftime.
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ISU Homecoming Parade Set Sept. 25; Entry Deadline is Sept. 17

Released by University Relations September 9, 2010
Contact: Parade Chair Jason Sperry at 282-2879 or sperjaso@isu.edu.


ISU Homecoming Parade Set Sept. 25;
Entry Deadline is Sept. 17

Pocatello – The Idaho State University Homecoming 2010 Parade at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 25, in Pocatello will start at the corner of South First Avenue and Center Street, just east of the Center Street Underpass.

From the starting point, the parade will proceed up Center Street to South 15th Avenue, where entries will turn right and continue to the parade’s finish at the Holt Arena parking lot.

Parade entries are due by noon Friday, Sept. 17. After this date a $25 late fee applies. No entries will be accepted after noon Friday, Sept. 24.

The parade’s theme is ““The Year of the Tiger” and will take place from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by the annual pregame tailgate party and football game. The parade lineup begins at 8 a.m.

The parade staging area will be along First Avenue from Center Street south to Humbolt Street. The parade check-in/entry point for the general public is at First Avenue and Humbolt Street. For entries that have horses, there will be a staging and parking area on Sutter Street.

Parade organizers are requesting that parade participants take steps to avoid creating traffic congestion at the parade’s staging area. Only parade entries may enter the parade line-up at the Humbolt check-in/entrance point. Floats and entries need to be fully constructed before coming onto First Avenue.

All other traffic, such as vehicles dropping off parade participants, will not be allowed on First Avenue because this creates great safety concerns for pedestrians moving about the congested staging area.
Special slots have been reserved for bands, cheerleaders, drill teams, and dance groups. Parade officials will space these groups so that spectators will be able to hear and see them independently. There is no room to reserve space for multiple groups to follow bands. If a group is planning to follow a band, they must arrive with the band to ensure a space.

Groups will be required to stage at a different area away from First Avenue, and then walk to the parade starting area. The ISU Pond Student Union parking lot located at the end of Humbolt and Dillon Streets, and the ISU parking lot on Fourth Avenue between Terry and Putnam Streets, are both good staging and parking areas for parade participants. There may also be parking available on the side streets east of Second Avenue.
There are no parade entry fees for University-registered student organizations or other educational entities such as University departments or community public schools. The fee for non-profit agencies is $32. Commercial entry fees for businesses, political candidates and community groups are $65 per unit. Examples of a unit are a motorized vehicle with or without attached trailer, walking group or marching group. Applicants must specify what type of unit they are entering.

For more information, contact parade chair Jason Sperry at 282-2879 or sperjaso@isu.edu.

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‘McI Love ISU’ Night Set Sept. 16 Expanded to Two Pocatello McDonald’s Locations

‘McI Love ISU’ Night Set Sept. 16 Expanded to Two Pocatello McDonald’s Locations

Pocatello – In its second year the ‘McI Love ISU’ night in Pocatello, set from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sept. 16, has been expanded to include two McDonald’s restaurants in Pocatello.
“I Love ISU” leaders and volunteers will work the counters and kitchens at the McDonald’s location at 831 Yellowstone (across from Fred Meyers) and the McDonald’s at 1011 South Fifth Avenue (across from Idaho State University).
“We are pleased to again be supporting the efforts of this wonderful campaign,” said Mary Johnson, McDonald’s co-owner along with her husband, Mike. “We felt so good participating last year that the ‘McI Love ISU’ efforts have been expanded to two Pocatello McDonald’s restaurants. We want to help as many of these deserving ISU students as we can, investing in the future of our community.”
During this time 20 percent of the sales at both locations will be donated to “I Love ISU” scholarships. Those McDonald’s restaurants will also be accepting donations that go directly to the “I Love ISU” fund. Everybody is invited to join in this event.
“Please join us for a meal or a snack, and support Idaho State University students and scholarships at the same time,” said Roger Wheeler, co-chair of the “I Love ISU” campaign. “We look forward to seeing you at either or both locations.”
For additional information on “I Love ISU” contact the ISU Foundation at (208) 282-3470.
Information is also available at the Idaho State University Foundation’s website www.isu.edu/departments/alumni/foundation/iloveisu/.
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CW HOG 29th Annual Pig-Out Set Sept. 18 At Lower Ross Park in Pocatello

Released by Idaho State University September 10, 2010
Contact: ISU Outdoor Adventure Center, (208) 282-3912

CW HOG 29th Annual Pig-Out Set Sept. 18
At Lower Ross Park in Pocatello

Pocatello – The 29th annual Idaho State University CW HOG Pig Out, a dinner and fundraiser for Idaho State University’s Cooperative Wilderness Handicapped Outdoor Group, is Saturday, Sept. 18, at the Lower Ross Park Pavilion. CW HOG provides outdoor recreational opportunities for individuals with and without disabilities.
Dinner includes grilled pork chops, Idaho baked potatoes, corn on the cob, a Dutch oven vegetarian dish, and ice-cold beverages. Dinner is from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Musical entertainment, featuring US Bluez and Soul Full of Blues, will be from 4 to 11 p.m.
The Pig Out is the biggest annual event for CW HOG. Proceeds benefit ISU’s CW HOG program by providing staffing, trainings for staff and volunteers, equipment, and financial aid to participants who would other wise not be able to get the experiences that CW HOG has to offer. The confidence, self-esteem, and lifelong memories that come along with challenging oneself with outdoor adventures are immeasurable and CW HOG is committed to assisting with these challenges.
Those 12 and older pay $14 in advance, $15 at the door. Children 11 and younger pay $6 in advance, $7 at the door. Children ages 5 and younger eat free. The cost for a family of four is $35 with $5 for each additional child. Those only listening to the music pay $7.
Advance tickets are on sale at Scott’s Ski and Sports, Sandbaggers, Barrie’s Sports, Ace Hardware & Snake River Outdoor Sports, and The Outdoor Adventure Center on the ground floor of the Pond Student Union Building.
T-shirts with this year’s Pig Out slogan "Tickling Pork Bellies" will be on sale for $13 and will be available at the Pig Out.
For more information on the Pig Out, call the CW HOG Office at (208) 282-3912.
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Scientists’ Efforts to Influence Public Opinion Have Limited Effect According to Study Co-Authored by Idaho State University Professor Carlisle

Released by Idaho State University September 9, 2010
Contact: Juliet Carlisle, ISU Political Science Assistant Professor, (208) 282-2550 or carlisle@isu.edu; or Jayne Fairley, SAGE, jayne.fairley@sagepub.co.uk, Tel: +44 (0)207 3248719. Note: Most of the information below was provided by SAGE in a press release written by Jayne Fairley that was distributed for release on Sept. 3.

Scientists’ Efforts to Influence Public Opinion Have Limited Effect
According to Study Co-Authored by Idaho State University Professor Carlisle

POCATELLO – Scientists’ efforts to influence public opinion have a limited effect, according to a study published this month that was co-authored by Idaho State University Assistant Professor of Political Science Juliet Carlisle.
The study also notes that more people are likely to believe scientific studies claiming that oil drilling is riskier, not safer, than was previously thought, according to a new study of attitudes in California.
The study “The Public’s Trust in Scientific Claims Regarding Offshore Oil Drilling” appeared in the journal Public Understanding of Science published by SAGE. It was co-authored by Jessica Feezell and Eric Smith, both from the University of California, Santa Barbara, together with Kristy E.H. Michaud from California State University, Northridge and Los Angeles media consultant Leeanna Smith. The authors think that prior beliefs may turn out to play a critical role in many policy disputes, muting the influence of scientific studies.
“Although the focus of this particular study is offshore oil drilling, it is important that people understand that our findings can very likely apply to any number of policy issues,” Carlisle said. “The concern is that if individuals are not open to ideas and information that contradict their prior beliefs and core values, not only do scientists have a challenging task, but also the open debate and marketplace of ideas that we value as a democracy is limited.”
“This is not a conclusion that is likely to bring joy to the hearts of the scientific community,” says Smith. But how do people decide which scientific claims and which experts to believe?
Some social scientists hold that people most often believe claims by experts from organizations that line up with their own personal political views – this is the source credibility hypothesis. An alternative view – the content hypothesis – claims that people are most likely to accept a scientific claim if it supports their existing views, regardless of the source.
Psychologists have been looking at these hypotheses since the 1950s, but in recent decades the content hypothesis has been all but forgotten in policy research. The investigators behind this PUS paper believe its time for a content hypothesis revival – specifically when it comes to views on offshore oil rigs.
The researchers used an experiment embedded in a 2002 public opinion survey of 1,475 Californians to assess the confidence people have in reports about safety studies on offshore oil drilling along the California coast. Californian voters are well versed in the debate about oilrig safety: resistance to offshore oil drilling began in response to the very first offshore operation in California in 1896 and has been political hot potato ever since.
The first important finding was that consistency between the content of messages and a person’s prior beliefs has a substantial impact. But the message source had no effect on peoples’ confidence in the scientific reports: liberals have overwhelming confidence in the claim that offshore oil drilling is riskier than previously thought, irrespective of the source, and conservatives place more faith in the message that oil drilling is safer.
Given that liberals are generally pro-environment and conservatives are generally pro-development, this is exactly what the content hypothesis would predict: the ideology and the content of the message interact.
“One finding immediately jumps out. Californians generally have more confidence in expert claims that offshore oil drilling is riskier than previously thought than they have in claims that it is safer. Fifty-eight percent of the respondents express a great deal or moderate amount of confidence in expert claims that offshore oil drilling is riskier than previously thought,” says Smith.
Together, these findings raise the question of whether scientific studies are likely to have much impact on the public’s views of the safety of energy sources.
The findings are consistent with previous research showing that core values and prior beliefs influence whether people accept persuasive messages. But this is the first time the researchers are aware of to show that core values and prior beliefs have independent effects.
If researchers can replicate these findings in other policy areas, the influence of science on public policy debates will be in doubt.
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ISU Homecoming Award Recipients Announced; Alumni Recognition Dinner Set Sept. 24

Released by Idaho State University Sept. 9, 2010
Contact: ISU Office of Alumni Relations, (208) 282-3755

ISU Homecoming Award Recipients Announced;
Alumni Recognition Dinner Set Sept. 24

Pocatello – Idaho State University will recognize and honor special alumni, faculty and staff at Homecoming 2010.
Award recipients will be honored at the President’s Alumni Recognition Dinner at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 24, at the Red Lion Hotel in Pocatello, 1555 Pocatello Creek Road. A reception at 6 p.m. precedes the dinner. Those wishing to attend should contact the ISU Alumni Office at (208) 282-3755 or e-mail alumni@isu.edu. The cost is $40 per person.
Dr. Ellen Joy Plein is being honored as Distinguished Alumnus; Clarence W. and Velma A.* Byrne are being honored with the William J. Bartz Award; Dr. Corey Schou is being honored with the ISU Achievement Award; Coach Dave Nielsen is being honored with the ISU Distinguished Service Award; Bruce S. Bistline, Senator Robert L. Geddes and William M. Kobus are receiving the President’s Medallion Awards; and David S. Kragthorpe is the recipient of the student selected Homecoming Parade Marshall Award.
Following are the honorees and their awards.
• The Idaho State University Distinguished Alumnus Award recognizes exemplary professional and personal contributions resulting in national or international recognition. Dr. Ellen Joy Plein, a professor at University of Washington, earned her bachelor’s degree in pharmacy at ISU in 1947. She earned a masters degree in pharmacy at the University of Washington in 1951 and a doctoral degree in 1956. Plein continues to conduct research and contributes to a number of courses at the University of Washington. She has established three scholarship endowments at ISU in memory of three classmates from the Class of 1947.
“Idaho State University is proud of Dr. Plein as a graduate of this institution,” said Kent Tingey, ISU Vice President for Advancement. “Dr. Plein’s accomplishments on a national scale and her support for the College of Pharmacy in the form of generous scholarships continue bless the students who attend ISU.”
• The Idaho State University Achievement Award recognizes personal actions, generosity and self-sacrifice on the behalf of the University by a faculty member. The award was established in 1984. Dr. Corey Schou is professor of informatics and computer information systems. He directs the Informatics Research Institute, which works closely with researchers around the world, and hosts the National Information Assurance Training and Education Center and the Simplot Decision Support Center. The Informatics Research Institute also hosts the U.S. government Cyber-Corps Scholarship for Service program.
– over –
ISU Homecoming Awards Add One ISU09092010
• The Idaho State University Distinguished Service Award recognizes ISU staff who have shown exceptional loyalty to the University through an extended period of employment. Coach Dave Nielsen has been the head track and field coach at Idaho State University for 27 years. He is well known for having coached former Olympic champion and world-record holder in the pole vault, Stacy Dragila. A former pole vaulter himself, Nielsen was a Big Ten champion, earned All-American honors and competed at the 1976 Olympic trials.
• The William J. Bartz Award recognizes continued support and development of ISU through personal actions, participation in University affairs and financial support. Clarence W.Byrne and his wife, Velma*A. Byrne, are World War II veterans who met in North Africa during the war. They settled in Rigby, Idaho.
In 2008, Clarence was recognized as a 70-year member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. He was also known for flipping the switch that made Arco the first city in the world lit by nuclear power.
In 2003, Clarence and Velma’s family members created an endowed scholarship at Idaho State University in their honor. Four of their five children have attended Idaho State University –C. William Bryne, Jr., Michael J. Byrne, James A. Byrne and Patricia C. Byrne. Now a tradition that all family members subscribe to, on birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and any other special occasion, they make gifts in the names of family members to this and several other scholarships in lieu of gifts to the individual family members.
• The President’s Medallion was established in 2001 to honor friends and alumni whose outstanding accomplishments and exemplary service and support bring distinction to the University and advance higher education.
– William M. Kobus attended Idaho State University. Bill received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Idaho State University in 1981. In January, Bill concluded four years as director of the ISU Office of Alumni Relations. A retired senior executive with the U.S. Postal Service, Kobus was a postmaster/area manager in Pocatello, Boise, Salt Lake City, Utah, and Albuquerque, New Mexico.
“Bill Kobus has served this institution with distinction for a very many years. Even after he retired from a successful career with the U.S. Postal Service, we asked Bill to come back and help us out in the Alumni Office for a few months,” Tingey said. “That help turned into a few years, for which we express deep appreciation to Bill and Rosemary for their sacrifice, unequaled commitment and support. In addition to their time and talents, they have been extremely generous to a variety of different programs at Idaho State University.”
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ISU Homecoming Awards Add Two ISU09092010
– Idaho Senator Robert L. Geddes grew up on a family farm in Franklin County and now lives in Soda Springs with his wife, Tammy. He has worked for Monsanto since 1985 and in 1995 Geddes was appointed to fill a vacancy in the Idaho State Senate. Of the nearly 16 years of service in the Senate, he served for two year as Majority Caucus Chairman and for the last 10 years as the President Pro Tempore.
“The overall and broad-based support for Idaho State University that has come from Senator Geddes has been immeasurable,” Tingey said. “He has been, and continues to be, a dear friend to this institution and has worked relentlessly to help build not only legislative support, but support from a variety of constituents for the initiatives and strategic plans of Idaho State University. In particular, his work in helping to build the Meridian campus has been remarkable.”
– Bruce S. Bistline, an attorney with Gordon Law Offices in Boise, is a long-time supporter of ISU and has been an Idaho State University Foundation Board member since 2007. He is the chair of both the Foundation’s Development Committee and the Stephens Performing Arts Center sub-committee. Bistline has practiced law at a variety of firms and companies since 1975 and has been with Gordon Law Offices since 1997.
“Since Mr. Bistline joined the Idaho State University Foundation Board of Directors a couple of years ago, his insight, wisdom and assistance has been invaluable and his efforts in generating financial support for the University have been tireless,” Tingey said. “Bruce’s leadership of the development committee which is involved in generating resources to support the University in its mission has been extraordinary. ”
• Homecoming Parade Marshall recognizes ISU faculty, staff or alumni who have made a significant impact on the ISU community and enjoy popularity among their colleagues and students. Dave Kragthrope coached the Idaho State University football team from 1980-82, and he quickly took a team that had lost 19 straight football games and just 19 games later had a conference championship on the way to a 12-1 record and the 1981 I-AA national title. Kragthorpe was honored with an ISU Sports Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008.
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