WAITSBURG – There's nothing unusual about Waitsburg parent and bus driver Pam Alexenko spoiling and supporting local kids. It's just part of who she is and something she's done for years.

But her son Luke's fraternity brothers at Beta Theta Pi at Eastern Washington University, who are now on the receiving end of her generosity, found her treats and encouragement so impressive that they reinstated the Beta Theta Pi "Mom of the Year" award and presented Pam with it during last month's Mom's Weekend.

And the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Luke Alexenko has followed in his mom's foot...