No offense to the good folks of Idaho, but the Lehigh Valley has a lot more than potatoes going on.

Laurie Demko knows a thing or two about both locales, having lived in the Potato State for a quarter century, returning to the Lehigh Valley, where her family resides in 2006. Demko began her career with LVEDC that same year and her role in the organization has evolved since then.

Primarily Demko serves as Executive Assistant to President and CEO Phillip Mitman. That’s a formal way of saying she helps Mr. Mitman stay on his game.

“I like Phil’s leadership style,” Demko said. “He’s personable and encouraging.”

But like a juggler she has more than one ball in the air. She also assists Steve Melnick with his coordination of the Keystone Opportunity Zone program.

The KOZ is a tax abatement program centered in parcels of land and buildings that are obviously designed to spur economic growth,” Demko explained.

She also serves as the administrative aide for the Board of Directors, Executive Committee and various board committees, tacking clean, concise notes.

When asked what makes the Lehigh Valley such a great place to live, her answer underscored the region’s diversity.

“It’s interesting because of the contrast between the country and culture,” she noted.

“You have some very scenic places that are beautiful and yet you’re not that far from a museum or some other cultural pursuit,” she noted. “It has the best of both worlds.”

As for her own world, Demko would like to take on additional responsibilities over time with LVEDC.

“I’m always looking to expand my horizons,” she said.

All the way from Idaho to the Lehigh Valley.