Post-Christening Evening Reception

The USS IDAHO Commissioning Committee concluded a weekend of christening festivities by hosting an Idaho-themed reception for the crew and guests at the Mystic Marriott ballroom in Mystic, Connecticut on Saturday evening, March 16. Guests sampled a buffet of special Idaho fare: smoked salmon, finger steaks, and Simplot French fries, a baked potato bar, huckleberry cheesecake, and Idaho Spud Bars.

Advisory Board Chair Governor Dirk Kempthorne welcomed the guests and congratulated Sponsor Terry Stackley on breaking the bottle of christening water with one whack. He then presented her with a bottle of 44 North's USS IDAHO Huckleberry Flavored Vodka. "Batch 799" commemorates the commissioning of the USS IDAHO and features a submerged submarine.

Committee chair Richard Colburn displays souvenir bottles of Idaho christening waters developed by 44 North's Scott Probert and team. Photo by Laura Barton.

Matt Wrobel displays U.S. flag grommets and presents the ship's bell made from brass grommets to Commander Randall Leslie and Chief of the Boat Travis Skipper. Photo by Laura Barton.

Crew members of PCU IDAHO share their experiences and impressions on past crew visits to Idaho. Photo by Laura Barton.

Mitzi Cheldelin and Idaho Power CEO Lisa Grow enjoy the reception with family and friends. Photo by Tammie Colburn.

(l. to r.) Committee members Robert Earl, Blythe Fortin, and Ray Fortin.

Planning Committee Chair Don Curry welcomes christening guests. Photo by Laura Barton.

Last call for USS IDAHO merch from the Krivys and Bob Brady. Photo by Laura Barton.

Committee members Dennis Johnson and Laura Barton. Photo by Tammy Colburn.