3/9/2006
New Basque license plate now available
BOISE - A new license plate that will honor Idaho's Basque heritage and raise funds for the Cenarrusa Center for Basque Studies is now available at county auto licensing offices.
The plate features a camp/sheep wagon. The first Basque immigrant sheepherders lived in camp wagons during their long stays in Idaho's mountains. The lower center of the plate reads Basque. The background is Idaho's standard red and blue mountain license plate artwork.
The initial cost for the plate is $35. That price drops to $25 when the plate is renewed. These fees are in addition to annual vehicle registration, county and plate fees. The Cenarrusa Center for Basque Studies will receive $25 for each new plate and $15 from annual renewals.
Founded in 2003, the Cenarrusa Center for Basque Studies is a joint project among educators, business leaders and cultural groups that offers educational programs to those interested in Basque studies.
"We will use the funds to preserve the Basque culture, language and contributions to Idaho through educational and outreach programs," said Pete Cenarrusa, Chairman of the Cenarrusa Center for Basque Studies.
"Purchasing the plate is a great way to show Basque pride and contribute to its preservation," Steve Achabal, President of the Basque Center, added.
The plates can be personalized with up to five letters or numbers for an additional $25 the first year and $15 for renewals. Applications for personalized Basque plates are available at county auto licensing offices or for download on-line at itd.idaho.gov/dmv
Sample versions of the Basque plates can also be purchased from the Idaho Transportation Department for $30, $20 of which goes to the Cenarrusa Basque Center fund. Sample plates can be personalized at no additional cost. These plates cannot be displayed on motor vehicles.
"Sample plates make a unique gift and also contribute to the preservation of the Basque culture,"Jill Aldape president of the Oinkari Basque Dancers, said.
Applications for sample plates are available at county auto licensing offices or for download on-line at itd.idaho.gov/dmv
The new Basque license plate may only be displayed on passenger vehicles, light trucks with a gross vehicle weight of up to 26,000 pounds, motor homes, and camper trailers (excluding horse, car, and cargo trailers with RV facilities).