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OWNER -TO- OWNER
DECEMBER 2025
franklinbuildingsupply.com | 208-514-2200 | 9222 W. Barnes Dr., Boise, ID 83709 Reflecting on 35-Plus Years With FBS
When I was first asked to write about my career with FBS for our newsletter, I assumed it would be simple, just a few paragraphs to sum up 35 years. I quickly realized how wrong I was. After filling three pages of notes, I struggled to condense decades of memories, lessons, and stories into something brief. The following is my attempt to share my journey without unpacking every great (and sometimes challenging) moment along the way. My FBS career began on April Fools’ Day 1990 at the McCall location, working the sales counter. Prior to joining FBS, I worked for Boise Cascade and Vance Building Center, gaining experience in material take-offs, pricing, subcontractor estimates, and even building homes. That background proved invaluable. There were many days in McCall when I’d perform the take-off, price the job, pull and load the materials, deliver them, and then come back to help process invoices and prepare monthly statements. A couple of months in, I transitioned to outside sales, taking on accounts previously managed by Bob Dodge, who was balancing those responsibilities with his general manager duties. That role felt familiar, as I had served as both GM and outside salesperson at Vance Building Center in Winnemucca, Nevada. In the spring of 1991, Bob recognized the need for a dedicated sales manager, and I stepped into that role, coordinating efforts between me and two other salespeople. Over the next six years, I also took on what I call the “unofficial assistant manager” role. Back then, everyone wore multiple hats, and that spirit of teamwork still defines McCall today. It’s common to see anyone, Ben, the CSRs, whoever is available, jump in to help a customer, build loads, or cover the counter. Flexibility has always been part of who we are. In 1996, FBS underwent a major shift with the buyout of Bud Fisher, leading Bob and the three Mikes to purchase Bud’s stake. This change marked the start of the regional management structure. When Bob became a regional manager, I was promoted to general manager of McCall. The years from 2008 to 2010 were some of the toughest of my career. The housing market collapsed, and I had to oversee the reduction of our workforce from more than 70 employees to fewer than 10. Every day presented new challenges, and there
were moments we wondered if we would make it through. But we did. And when we came out the other side, it reinforced what I already knew, that FBS cares deeply about its people and the long- term health of the business.
After Bob retired in 2010, I’ll never forget when our chairman, Dick Lierz, came to McCall to meet with me. Over lunch, he explained the responsibilities of the board and asked if I would consider joining. It was a defining moment, knowing I had earned the trust of Dick and the other owners. At the time, only three of us on the board were not owners: James Dowen, Bryce Luker, and I. Before Mike Hyer retired in 2016, we restructured our regional roles, and I became regional manager of the Mountain West Region (McCall, Bellevue, Fruitland, Boise Supply Company, and Caldwell). That same year, Rick hired Levi Smith as COO. When I first met Levi on a flight to Seattle for the summit, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this “Texas rancher.” But by the end of that trip, and especially after a one-on-one in McCall, I knew Rick had chosen the right leader to help guide FBS into the future. In 2017, after years of commuting between McCall and the Treasure Valley, Marilyn and I made the move to Star. It was a big shift from a town where I knew everyone to one of Idaho’s fastest-growing communities. As I look ahead to retiring on Dec. 31, 2025, I feel both excitement and a touch of regret. I’m eager for the next chapter, but I will deeply miss the people and relationships built over so many years. Stepping away wasn’t an easy decision, but it became clearer, knowing FBS is on solid ground. I have complete confidence in our leadership and in the future of this company. We’ve weathered many storms together, and I’m proud of all we’ve accomplished. I look forward to watching FBS continue to thrive, driven by the commitment and ownership of its employee-owners.
–Ken Leavitt
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HIGH FIVES!
a few things and will be making the appropriate changes to our plan. Great job keeping everyone safe. EASY
From: Jordan Crow, Boise Finish To: Rich Weaver, TVID Exterior
WOW From: Melissa Mallory, Burley To: Kris Conners, Burley
Every time Rich came in for will calls, he always had the best attitude, was very appreciative of everyone, and always wanted to make things easier for everyone around him. I’ve run into him a few times more recently on job sites, and he always says hi and is still always looking for ways to make things easier for all of us. I’ve noticed him handling a lot of little things to cut out some of the work that our team would be doing otherwise. When I think about people who perfectly represent us as a company, Rich is absolutely the first person I think of. STRIVE
Kris tends to wear many hats at our location. Any time you ask Kris for help (no matter the department or problem), he is well-versed and always quick to help, and he is great with problem-solving. Working with Kris is a joy, and you always know he has the customer and FBS in mind when tackling tasks and/or problems. GUIDE From: Tyler Anderson, Jerome To: Tim Morrell, Jerome Tim took the time to get off his forklift and help remove some of my rust by guiding me and giving me some tricks and pointers on loading the semi with material. Thank you, Tim. There’s a reason you’re Top Dog. SAFE From: Jay Tegethoff, Twin Falls To: Twin Falls Emergency Action Committee I want to thank the Twin Falls Emergency Action team, which includes Jeff Morgan, Jay Tegethoff, Mitch Montgomery, Justin Osterhout, Sierra Baker, Zack Phillips, Lana Bryan, and Kale Black. They successfully implemented a mock fire drill for the location. It went off without a hitch, and we all learned
From: Aaron Sweet, Gooding To: Mo Martinez, Twin Falls
Mo has truly gone above and beyond to support the Gooding store during our recent staffing challenges. He moved his computer from his office in the back up to the bullpen so he could help cover the front counter, and even went the extra mile to get his medical card so he could step in and take deliveries when we were in a bind. Words can’t fully express the appreciation we feel as a store for the dedication, flexibility, and teamwork Mo has shown over the past few weeks. His willingness to jump in wherever needed has made a real difference.
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50 YEARS OF BUILDING. 10 YEARS OF OWNING. ALWAYS GIVING BACK. LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD
As we close out 2025, we’re taking a moment to celebrate everything our teams have accomplished this year. From strong performance, new Blue Star Safety locations, and standout ownership stories, it’s been a year full of teamwork, pride, and growth. We also marked big milestones by opening a new location in Idaho Falls and opening a new showroom for our TVID Interiors team. Both incredible spaces highlight our craftsmanship and continued commitment to customers.
This season, every FBS location is giving back in its own way by supporting local causes, collecting donations, and helping families in need. It’s our way of saying thank you to the communities that have supported us for 50 years. Looking ahead to 2026, we’ll be celebrating 50 years in business and 10 years as employee-owners with events, stories, and plenty of opportunities to reflect on what ownership means. Here’s to finishing strong, giving back, and kicking off a milestone year together!
BIRTHDAYS JANUARY
JANUARY ANNIVERSARIES
LOCATION - EMPLOYEE - YEARS
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19 22 22 22 23 24 24 25 26 26 26 27 27 27 28 29 29 30 30
Guiseppi Imbriani Jim Priess Liz Wagner Josh Wiggins Archie Kasumovic Robert Smith James Bermudez James Shrewsbury Skyler Bateman Freddy Ruiz Zachary Downer Mitchel Montgomery
Emma Choules Levi Smith Tom Mosgrove Alan Akberdin Scott Still Ken Leavitt Keven Sanchez Sierra Breaux Brandon Benton Fernando Trujillo Amanda Jones Lily Sheridan Shannon Brown TJ Richardson Rj Vera Derek Byington Chris Eisnaugle Paul Lewis Zach West Cameron Fuhriman Jeff Denker Jackson Theberge
TVID - Interior TVID - Interior Twin Falls Bellevue Interior Bellevue TVID - Interior Sawtooth Door Caldwell Truss TVID - Exterior Caldwell Truss TVID - Exterior Boise Boise Finish Boise
Justice Shands Collin Kaufman Chase Rond
1 1 1 1
Pocatello Sawtooth Door Twin Falls Boise Boise Corporate McCall Jerome Truss TVID - Exterior Caldwell Corporate Boise Boise Finish
Michael Hoskins Ivan Barriente Erik Olsen Andrew Mannion Jonathan Sanches Jordan Paeth Skyler Bateman Evan Hess Aaron Lowther Chris Morrison Levi Smith Joey Green Doug Cox Rusty Anderson John Rifelj
5 5 6 6 7 7 7 7 8 9 10 12 12 20 23
2 3 3 5 6 6 9 9 9
Trent Shoemaker Daniel Fleshman Abby Hendricks Cameron Fuhriman Brandon Dixon Meregildo Castillo Kyle Jenner
2 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 5 5 5
10 10
Jill Flabel Nick Lang Mike Price
11 11
12 12 13 13 13 15 15
Bracken Garz Dana Parker Matthew McBurney
Tommy Tristan Trevor Lovejoy David Gardner Chris Bazzle Cameron Sato
Alex Ruffridge Steven Grijalva John Hughes Jordan Paeth
31 31 31
Fruitland Pocatello
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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
franklinbuildingsupply.com 9222 W. Barnes Dr. Boise, ID 83709
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Reflecting on 35-Plus Years With FBS
High Fives! HR Corner Looking Back, Looking Ahead January Birthdays and Anniversaries
In the Spotlight
IN THE SPOTLIGHT Building More Than Loads: Juan Baeza Builds Team Strength
Here at Franklin Building Supply, nothing would be possible without our team members. They are at the center of everything we do, and few team members embody that belief more clearly than Juan Baeza, Load Builder at our Bellevue location. In his three years with FBS, Juan has established himself as a reliable, positive team member with a strong sense of ownership, all qualities that make him a key part of our team. “Juan Baeza is a steady workhorse. He came to us after working in the restaurant industry for 26 years. This was a completely new experience for Juan, but he has come so far,” Juan’s supervisor mentions. “He is the oil that keeps our yard running as our primary load builder. He is soft-spoken and a very hard worker. I appreciate that no matter how busy
Juan is, he is always friendly and will spend time talking with you. We are honored to have him on our team.” Juan’s role encompasses customer service, load building, stocking materials, and maintaining a clean and organized yard. It’s a job that demands energy, accuracy, and focus, and Juan brings all three every single day. He says busy days are his favorite because “busy days go by fast,” and the constant activity allows him to stay engaged and keep learning. Whether he’s organizing materials, helping customers, or adjusting to the changing demands of each season, Juan enjoys the variety and takes pride in doing his work well. Safety is also a top priority for Juan. He values the daily huddles and reminders that help everyone stay
mindful and return home safely. For him, safety is part of ensuring the well-being of the entire team. When asked what motivates him, Juan points first to his family. Becoming a better person every day and completing his work efficiently and accurately are goals he carries with him on and off the job. Outside of FBS, Juan enjoys family gatherings, weekend cooking, gardening, and improving his home. Juan, we are so thrilled to have you as part of our family. You represent exactly why we value our team so deeply: people who care, contribute, and continually lift those around them.
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