The Crier caught up with Idyllwild’s new postmaster this week. Mark A. Pererra displays a balance of cordiality, humility and military precision. He mentioned his Creole roots and two tours of duty with the U.S. Marine Corps in Iraq. In response to a request for a biographical sketch, he submitted this brief note:

“Yes, this is my first week in Idyllwild. Brief background is that I was born and raised in Belize, which is a country in Central America. Belize is the only country in [Central America] where English is the first language. The second language is Spanish and there [are] a lot of other dialects depending on what regions people come from. That is mainly why I’m able to speak different languages.

“I migrated to the United States in 1983 and joined the United States Marine Corps, which I will say offered so many opportunities for me. It allowed me to travel all over the world engaging with people of many different backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures and religions. The Marine Corps taught me discipline, leadership, decision making and the ability to think on my feet. It also taught me to be humble and respectful of others.

“These are some of the tools and skill sets that I’m bringing to the Idyllwild Post Office as the postmaster of Idyllwild. I can see that the community is very close knitted, whereby everyone looks out for the welfare and well-being of their fellow person. As such, I’m looking forward to providing quality services to the community of Idyllwild as I engage everyone in my new position.”