Kendall Cares

Paul Farrally, general manager of Kendall Subaru, cutting the tape.

Yesterday evening, Kendall Motors held their grand opening for their newest venture in town, the Subaru dealership on Thain Road. The ribbon cutting came first, though the early crowd was already inside, snacking. They were coaxed outside for the ceremony.

Paul Farrally, who just moved to the valley in December, did the honors with the traditional over-sized scissors and a bright red ribbon while the crowd cheered and applauded. Then everyone back inside, some for more snacks, some for a beer or glass of wine. 

The Lewis-Clark Animal Shelter attended - more later - with the whole staff and several members of the board. Representing the board was the ever-personable veterinarian John Hoch of Lewiston Veterinary Clinic; the president, Lonnie Ells, taking time off from his busy accounting practice to attend; and Joyce Keefer, who seems indefatigable as she works as one of the valley's best Realtors and serves (and works) on community boards. 

Aaron Jollymore, making sure the food was just perfect.

Jollymore's, a restaurant who seems always to be assisting the Shelter, provided the catering. Aaron Jollymore, the executive chef, and I chatted about the spread, which included bite-sized steak, and a tasty spinach-sun-dried tomatoes spread was a hit with the folks that attended. Like the rube I sometimes am, I had eaten the spinach spread as a standalone dish. The second time through the line (as always, Jollymore's had more than enough food for everyone,) I tried it as intended. Delicious both ways and hats off to Aaron, a wonderful chef.

The main presentation came at 5:45, when Paul Farrally presented a pair of checks to the Lewis-Clark Animal Shelter as part of the Kendall Cares and Subaru Share the Love programs for supporting worthy causes in the community. Lonnie Ells and John Hoch accepted the checks on behalf of the Shelter. The total contribution was a staggering $11,300 - much more than the Animal Shelter expected and thoroughly welcome.

I had a chance to chat afterward with both Paul Farrally and Megan Dooley, the community relations specialist who traveled up from Boise for the event. Very open and hospitable individuals, both, and a pleasure to talk to. It seemed a trend with the Kendall staff. 

John Hoch, Lonnie Ells, and Paul Farrally