February 23, 2026 (Cover photo credit: Bannock County Veterans Memorial Association)
Pocatello–The Bannock County Veterans Memorial Building today hosted a ribbon-cutting to mark the grand re-opening of their iconic main-floor ballroom a year after water damage forced it to close.
Building Historian Miguel Diaz Dominic welcomed the community to the ceremony, declaring that in reopening the building “we do more than unlock doors–we reopen a promise…We recommit ourselves to the values this building represents: service, unity, remembrance, and freedom.” He thanked the volunteers who keep the building going: “This memorial building is sustained entirely by veteran volunteers…They show up early. They stay late…They go above and beyond–not for recognition, not for reward–but because service is part of who they are…Through their dedication, this space becomes more than brick and mortar. It becomes a place of fellowship, remembrance, healing, and unity.” Dominic also thanked Idaho Fire and Flood for their “outstanding work and dedication” in completing the building renovations: “Your support has ensured that this memorial will continue to honor our veterans, serve our community, and stand as a symbol of remembrance and unity for generations to come.”
Building Manager Teresa Vialpando spoke next. She thanked all the volunteers and donors, especially the anonymous donor whose generous contribution made the repairs possible. She also thanked Idaho Fire and Flood for their commitment to the renovation.
Finally, Pocatello-Chubbuck Chamber of Commerce Trailblazer Gary Seymour came to the podium and acknowledged the Building’s contributions to the community. He invited his fellow Trailblazers, Memorial Building staff and volunteers, and representatives of Idaho Fire and Flood to join him at the front of the room to cut the ribbon.
Idaho Fire and Flood provided sandwiches, chips, and ice cream for all attendees after the ceremony. Glean Coffee sponsored coffee and lemonade.
During the lunch, Idaho Fire and Flood founder Mason Clinger shared the story of his company’s involvement with the renovation project. He explained that since one of the company’s core values is helping and serving others, they make a point of completing a variety of service projects throughout the year. One such project was assisting with exterior cleanup and landscaping at the Building. Through that project, he became impressed by the Building’s impact on the community. Idaho Fire and Flood employee Lance Larsen spoke more directly about the renovation project, stating that they felt “honored to be able to help the Memorial Building.” He gave a shout-out to the donors and community support that made the project possible, mentioning that staying within budget was the biggest challenge.
