The INKster met Thomas Jacobs last fall and has learned a lot from the 24-year-old, including many of the fine points of the art of cage-fighting, which she had barely heard of before meeting him.
Thomas, who has been working as a nursing assistant for the past eight months, has been cage-fighting for five years. On Aug. 3, he participated in the Rumble on the River cage-fighting event at the Clearwater River Casino in Lewiston. He won in the first round by submission in a 185-pound match against Craig Marsh of Orofino.
Thomas is the son of Jeff and Nancy Jacobs of Uniontown. He graduated from Colton High School in 2007, where he excelled in sports. He was All-State in football and baseball and was All-League for four years.
How did he feel after winning the match in Lewiston?
"To quote my father, 'Pain is temporary, but defeat is forever,' " he said.
Thomas expects to move to Coeur d'Alene this month.
"I plan on furthering my cage-fighting career and working as a personal trainer," he said.
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The INKster is responding to a request from her old friend Jo Ann Trail to make mention of the upcoming welcome dinner for International Students at the University of Idaho. The UI is anticipating more than 150 new international students arriving this month. The event takes place Thursday evening at the UI Shattuck Arboretum, behind the tennis courts. Those attending are asked to bring a dish to share, such as a main dish, salad, appetizer or dessert. Please label the dish. Drinks and tableware will be provided.
The dinner is being hosted by the Friendship Family Program. The group is in the process of updating its database to help match students and families. For a form, contact Tammi Johnson at (208) 885-8941 or tammir@uidaho.edu.
"Completing the form helps ensure the best possible matches," Tammi wrote in an email.
Tammi is the manager of International Student, Scholar and Faculty Services.
... the blotter rests.
Vera White pens INK. To contribute, email vnwhite@cableone.net.
