It�s almost as if Dave Beiter was destined to become Boise�s mayor. Born in Boise and raised in the quiet tree-lined north-end neighborhood, Mayor Beiter recently spoke to the newly invigorated Fettucini Forum about �Growing Up Boise: Reflections of a Hometown Mayor.� At the forum, Beiter spoke about life growing up in Boise-- learning to ski at Bogus Basin and to swim in Boise City Recreation programs, walking to school or the store. "It was a good life," the mayor said, one�that he is striving to retain in Boise,�a city that stays true to its roots.
The Fettucini Forum is a revival of a program started by Boise�s Pug Ostling. The forum was a staple at Pug�s old Noodles restaurant, where Pug wanted a way to inform his customers and employees on the issues of the day. Unfortunately, the forums ended when the downtown Noodles closed. The good news is that this winning combination of food and public discussion has recently been revived, with the help of the Boise State University Political Science Department. Now held in conjunction with downtown Boise�s First Thursday at the historic Rose Room in the Union Block, the new forum promises to continue the tradition. Future forums will feature Nancy Napier, �Creative Paths to Municipal Growth,� and Julie Numbers Smith, �The Arts and Economic Prosperity.�
The forum�s inaugural speaker, Dave Bieter, has always been a leader. In 1978 he was student body president at Bishop Kelly High School. He earned a bachelor's degree in international studies at the College of St. Thomas, then graduated from the University of Idaho with a juris doctorate. His early legal career included experience in both public and private practice. Unfortunately, it was a tragic accident in 1999, which took the lives of his parents Eloise and Pat, that thrust Beiter into politics. Dave was called to fill his father's place in the Idaho House of Representatives. Voters elected him to a full term in November 2000 and reelected him in 2002. His legal experience and distinguished public service made him a prime candidate to help heal Boise after the difficulties of former Mayor Brent Coles. He was elected in November of 2003 and has quickly become an effective leader.
Beiter is a hands-on mayor; he often chooses to walk to work, and is quick with a handshake and a smile as he moves about town. With a steady hand the new mayor has indeed helped Boise heal.
At the forum, Beiter spoke with great pride about continuing the legacy of his parents. He will work hard to make sure Boise will continue to be a great place to live and raise a family. Pat and Eloise Beiter would be proud.