Boise, ID May 2023

F o r e x c e l l e n t s e r v i c e a n d r e p r e s e n t a t i o n , c o n t a c t t h e

T r e a s u r e V a l l e y u l t r a - l u x u r y r e a l e s t a t e s a l e s t e a m .

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Inspirational Women from Idaho

It is my pleasure to introduce our annual issue that celebrates the incredible women of the Treasure Valley. In this issue, we feature individuals from diverse backgrounds, including poets, STEM professionals, actresses, wives, mothers, and daughters.

Our cover story highlights the remarkable achievements of Boise resident Jane Merrow, an accomplished actress who has inspired many with her talent and dedication. Her story is a testament to the resilience and determination of individuals who pursue their dreams.

We also recognize the contributions of teachers in the STEM field who have made significant strides in science, technology, engineering, and math. Their achievements have opened doors for future generations and advanced their respective fields.

Additionally, we pay tribute to the women who play a crucial role in our daily lives. Wives, mothers, and daughters provide the foundation for our families and communities, and we honor their unwavering commitment, strength, and love.

As we celebrate these individuals, we also encourage our readers to support locally owned businesses in Boise and Eagle, particularly those owned by women. By supporting these entrepreneurs, we can foster a vibrant community that benefits everyone.

In conclusion, we thank all of the individuals who have contributed to this issue and all those who have made the Treasure Valley a wonderful place to live. We hope that their stories inspire readers to appreciate and celebrate the remarkable individuals in their lives.

May 2023

PUBLISHER

Vince Gewalt | vince.gewalt@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Jordan Gray | editorial@boisecitylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ashley Loeb, Pamela Kleibrink Thompson, Stephen Singson, Kurt Orzeck, Chelsea Chambers

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ashley Loeb, Joel Hager

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

VINCE GEWALT, PUBLISHER @BOISELIFESTYLE

@posyblueflowertruck

Meet Roni, the vibrant and passionate flower grower and a modern florist in her Blue 1952 Chevy pickup, spreading joy and beauty throughout Treasure Valley with her stunning and unique floral arrangements.

city scene

1: Beth Trott exploring the mysteries and beauty of the people, places and things in the watercolor medium. 2: Director Rebecca Hupp ushering the Boise Airport through a period of unprecedented growth. 3: Ribbon cutting at The Tile House, Beautiful space, great staff and BEAUTIFUL products. 4: A creative communications team, five owners decided to do something bold: start an all-woman-ran agency. 5: Mechele Duke and her team of strong and talented women celebrating 15 years in Treasure Valley 6: From shopping and dining to outdoor adventures, Cait takes advantage of everything Idaho has to offer. 7: McKenzie Joyner, living life to the fullest with bucket list food, travel, and lifestyle content.

FB: @BOISEMETROCHAMBER

FB: @BETH.TROTT1

FB: @IFLYBOISE

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Newsworthy in Idaho

A Roundup of Exciting News from Local Businesses

ARTICLE BY STEPHEN SINGSON

2023 SPRING PARADE HOMES

The Annual Spring Boise Parade of Homes includes homes across Ada County. Throughout the two-week event, May 6 - 21, “an opportunity to tour brand new homes in some of the newestcommunities.” This is your chance to tour homes in some of the newest communities and check out the latest design trends firsthand. BoiseParadeofHomes.com

1) Alturas Homes , Rod Givens 2) Asbury Homes, John Asbury 3) Berkeley Building , Jenna Englund 4) Biltmore Co. , Kevin Amar 5) Brighton Homes, Lars Hansen 6) Busalacchi Custom Homes , Steve Busalacchi 7) Cedar & Sage, Ron Gintz 8) Core Building Co. , Travis Perry

9) Hammett Homes , Craig Hammett 10) James Clyde Homes , James Clyde 11) KB Home, Thomas Coleman 12)

Legacy Homes, Nate Sampson 13) Oakmont Signature Homes , Jordan Thompson 14) Paradigm Construction , Matt Knickeram 15) Rennison Homes , John Rennison 16) Riverwood Homes , Dan Johnson 17) RSI Construction , Corey Elitharp 18) Serenity Homes ,Richard Barlow 19)

Shadow Mountain Homes , Don Flynn 10) SherburneMarrs , Jared Sherburne 21) Solitude Homes, Cody Weight

22) Superior Custom Homes , Ron Henry/Blake Richards

23) Toll Brothers , Brenda Guggenbiller 24) Tresidio Homes , Jon Hastings 25) Zach Evans Const. , Carl Argon

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN CREATING POSITIVE IMPACTS

Sisters Sonya and Tedi Serge are hosting the Girl Powerful Podcast that has become a favorite among listeners for its engaging conversations with women who lead purposeful lives. The podcast features diverse guests, including athletes, TV personalities (pictured: Rachel Clark of Bravo’s Winter House), and wellness experts, who share truthful stories and valuable tips to motivate and inspire listeners. The podcast’s mission is to entertain and educate listeners with meaningful conversations covering various topics, such as improving confidence and adopting healthy habits. Sonya and Tedi aim to connect with listeners from all walks of life and make their content accessible. @girlpowerfulproject

BOISE DOWNTOWN (“BODO”) CINEMA NOW OPEN

BoDo Cinema, located in Downtown Boise, opened its doors on March 23, 2023. The luxury theater, brought to Boise Downtown by Cinema West, features two giant screen auditoriums with Dolby Atmos technology, all-laser projection, luxury electric recliners, and luxury chaise loungers for two. The cinema also has upgraded finishes for a modern look.  CinemaWest.com

NEWS RELEASE AND STORY IDEAS: We’re always interested to hear about new business openings, upcoming events, local news items, and community members contributing in new and exciting ways. Email: EDITORIAL@BOISECITYLIFESTYLE.COM | @BOISELIFESTYLE

Photo: “Walk the Lines,” watercolor by Beth Trott, Art Source Gallery’s May Featured Artist.

Rachel Clark

A Writer’s Life for Me

MEET TWO TREASURE VALLEY POETS

ARTICLE BY CHELSEA CHAMBERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOEL HAGER + PROVIDED

Sammy Hagar

Sammy made her way to Idaho when she was a junior in high school. Entranced by Boise’s eclectic music scene, she quickly found her people and got to work. “I became a lead journalist for a music magazine and started my own magazine with my best friend that soon was covering shows across the nation,” Sammy shared. “I ended up marrying that best friend, and we’ve been together for almost a decade. Nowadays, I spend my time as a journalist, ambassador, public speaker, marketing specialist, and creative.”

She discovered her passion for the written word when she was very young—penning short stories as early as 5, entering contests by 8 and winning them throughout her school-aged years. At age 13, Sammy became the youngest member of a spoken word group and that solidified her career path. “I knew then that I wanted to do writing and public speaking for the rest of my life.”

Sammy draws inspiration from the world around her but can always be moved by music. “I have hundreds of hours of music (no joke) on my playlists, and it’s all categorized for moods to get me ready for a run, to work, to take on the day, or even just to go to bed!”

You can read more of Sammy’s work and learn about her upcoming novels online at clippings.me/sammyhager.

Christy Claymore

As a freelance writer and editor, Christy can never be sure where inspiration will strike. “Sometimes as I am working on other projects, an unrelated thought or image will interrupt, and I’ll have to pause the task to get a line or so down. That sort of thing happens in the middle of the night too,” Christy said. “For this reason, I usually have a notebook near at all times.”

A writer since childhood, Christy often struggled academically as a kid but was able to take solace in her love of writing. Like many, it was a teacher that inspired her to hone her craft. “Writing was always something that seemed to save me in that way. I could do that one thing well, and I loved it. Thankfully, my 5th grade teacher noticed and sent me to a ‘Young Writers’ conference. I didn’t know it at the time, but he also kept all my writing to show to his future students. After I graduated college, he sent me a packet with all this writing I had forgotten about. It meant a lot to see my scrawlings from when I was ten years old. Teachers like him (Mr. Keiser) are invaluable.”

Christy is an emerging Treasure Valley poet whose work can be found locally in places like Writers in the Attic, an anthology series published by The Cabin. She also was featured on MING Studio’s My On Mondays podcast.

“I am learning to be more bold in sharing my work and receiving feedback. I have a handful of fellow writers I do this with. It’s important to get good feedback, even if it’s sometimes hard to swallow criticism—you only grow if your blind spots are revealed.”

“The world is never the same once a good poem has been added to it. A good poem helps to change the shape of the universe, helps to extend everyone’s knowledge of himself and the world around him.”

– Dylan Thomas

Oh, Gentle Stream

by Sammy Hagar

Oh, gentle stream,

Gentle, flowing brook of green, Only trees and I have seen, The way you kiss the shore tonight

Your gentle flow, Your steady rise,  Your persistence,

And gentle eyes,

Your beautiful voice and soft refrains, And here I listen, my body twain

Upon the shore formed by your pain,  And all is lost in soft refrains; Your reflective eyes,

Your cold, teal kiss, The gentle swaying of your hips,  Your flowing hair, You comb through with leaves, Your gentle eyes

Lost in the trees, ‘Til all is quiet,

You whisper your refrains,  And still, I listen, my body twain, Waiting for you to call my name;

Oh, gentle stream,

Gentle, flowing brook of green,

Only trees and I have seen, the way you kiss the shore tonight…

The Willow

by Sammy Hagar

I lay beneath a willow tree

And let it hold and comfort me

Stretch down her arms and rub my neck

Kiss my face and arch my back

Hide me from the barren world

Of cruel indifference as her leaves twirl

Fall to my chest and to the ground

Love letters of green and brown

Around my feet, upon my tears

To cover eyes from pain and fear

I lay beneath this willow tree

And let her hold and comfort me

I rub her hair of gold and red

And when it falls, we laugh instead

And when it’s cold, I bring her heat

And when it’s hot, she serves relief

I scare the crows from her green hair

And watch it sway, so debonair

I lay beneath this old willow tree

And laugh at how funny it is to be

Young again

How do I Love Thee? Well, Who Said I do?

by Sammy Hagar

How do I love thee?

The answer is constricted; I love thee blatant and forsaken Spoken out and thus awakened Turpentine, construed, conflicted Love restricted and inflicted

Oh my heart, you have thus taken Time for love to grow unshaken— Alas, love is but a wilting rose

Upon my withered chest

And though sweet in smell, it does not grow But falls amongst the rest

If shredded my heart, no tears shall flow For only blood at best

The Sky, an Abracadabra

by Christy Claymore

Abracadabra: “I will create as I speak.”

The sky, bird and wind-waxed presents plain and sacred colors rising and falling finally with the sun caught in clouds setting gradually, then suddenly.

The sky finds its symbolic nerve in constellations threading the expanses of a black curtain, falling to deep blue, ascending to early gray, waking the first lone, bold bird who unbravely breaks silence with a simple song, raising fully and—eventually— an entire chorus, bringing up the sun, moving stillness as a new horizon appears gold upon its canvas, the moon lingering pink in tree branches.

This simple complexity couldn’t just be made up but it is, entirely, by a song too deep to hear, whispering an early Abracadabra, waking days with live utterances, pouring speech into primal silences, singing the sky to opening, to change, as it does always, all over again.

Samantha Hager

Christy Claymore

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Alias Alais and Many Others

George Orwell's 1984-Jane as Julia with co- star David Buck as Winston. PC: BBC

JANE MERROW

ARTICLE BY PAMELA KLEIBRINK THOMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

“Creating another person—bringing a person to life, creating a character that people want to watch, someone that audiences respond to,” is the greatest joy of acting for British actress and Boise resident Jane Merrow, who has performed in over 80 film and television projects as well as on stage. Merrow knew she wanted to perform since the age of 8 and her family supported her passion.

Performing in London as “Hilary” in Country Dance, a James Kennaway play, led to a chance to audition for the part of Alais in The Lion in Winter. During her audition, she acted opposite Peter O’Toole, doing a scene from Country Dance as she did it on stage. O’Toole told her, “I don’t believe a word you’re saying.” Merrow learned, “On film you’ve got to believe and make the audience believe everything you’re thinking and doing. The camera captures everything. On stage you can get away with doing it technically. On film you have to be truthful.”

Merrow landed the role of “Alais,” the mistress of Henry II, in the film The Lion in Winter (1968), in which she co-starred with Peter O’Toole, Katharine Hepburn and Anthony Hopkins. The role earned her a Golden Globe nomination as Best

Supporting Actress. “What made the film a success was the relationship the actors had with each other. That really made that film. It started with Peter. He loved acting. I got that. I feel the same way.”

O’Toole counseled Merrow: “Keep your eyes still. Focus your eyes on the center of the face or on one eye or the other.” Hepburn taught her how to cry on screen. Merrow reflects, “There’s nothing like working with the best.”

One of her beloved TV projects was Secret Agent with Patrick McGoohan (titled Dangerman in the UK). Working with McGoohan was “exciting, like a roller coaster.  He had a powerful personality and lots of charisma. It was a fun part—like playing tennis with someone.”

In summer 2022 Merrow traveled to Ireland to appear in a documentary about Peter O’Toole directed by Jim Sheridan called Along the Skye Road to Aqaba due to be released on Britbox this year. “It was a wonderful experience. I talk about working with Peter. Other actors doing the same include Sir Anthony Hopkins, Sir Kenneth Branagh, Brian Cox and Dame Sian Phillips (Peter’s ex-wife).”

Merrow recently returned to the British stage portraying Lady MacBeth at the Groundlings Theatre.

Jane Merrow PC: Cary Judd

Jane Merrow is Alison in The Prisoner. PC: ITC Entertainment

Jane Merrow as Alais, the mistress of Henry II (played by Peter O'Toole) in The Lion in Winter (1968): PC Bob Willoughby

Six Million Dollar Man with Lee Majors.

PC: Harvey Bennett Productions

“You have to keep working on your voice and learn your lines.” Another role she’d like to play is Gertrude in Hamlet because a “mother/son relationship is always interesting.” Gertrude marries her husband’s brother. “Just because we get older doesn’t mean we can’t fall in love again.”

Idaho’s film community “has helped me meet many interesting people and get the new phase of my work going.” Merrow starred in a silent short filmed in Boise with a surprise ending called Cougar; recently worked with two actors from her past, Derren Nesbitt and Vernon Dotcheff, while filming The Haunting of Margam Castle in the U.K.; and created New Chilling Tales, a series of short films based on classic horror stories, including The Yellow Wallpaper in which she plays a woman overcome by fear. “I am an actor and my career was somewhat stalled and I decided that I would create my own work. I had fallen in love with the Internet and could see its potential for delivering films to an audience.” With many short classic horror stories in the public domain, Merrow found her new passion. Merrow also is reading M.Z. Andrews’ A Coffee Coven’s Cozy Capers for audible—which features “silly witches that live in modern life. It’s funny and tremendous fun.” In this project, she uses only one of her tools—her voice, and she has to quickly switch from one character and voice to another.

To filmmakers, Merrow offers these words of wisdom: “There is no point in making a film nobody wants to see. That’s why I’m tying into stories people love to read.”

Merrow has advice for actors in her book Being An Actor, available online. “Be prepared. Always learn your lines, build stamina and be prepared for disappointment and rejection.”

Merrow shares sage wisdom to attain success for all of us. “Surround yourself with good talented people. Stick with it. Keep your eye on the prize and stay in the race.”

Jane Merrow’s website is JaneMerrow.com

Jane Merrow with Katharine Hepburn who plays Eleanor of Aquitaine in Lion in Winter. PC: Bob Willoughby

Mission Impossible with Leonard Nimoy: Paramount Pictures Television

A Place to Dwell

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY LOEB

JAMIE BATSON BRINGS

EARTHY, COASTAL-INSPIRED DESIGN TRENDS TO EAGLE

Since her childhood in Seattle, Washington, Jamie Batson’s had a knack for decorating. Allowed to decorate, rearrange, and design her own space, she developed a taste for “clean looks where items pair well together.”

It wasn’t until 2020, when significant restructuring took place at the location of her corporate finance job, that she decided to see if she could turn her passion for design into a full-time career. In 2021, Dwell Home Co. (1501 E. State Street, Eagle) was the result of Batson’s dream coming true.

“I opened Dwell with zero retail experience and having never been a business owner,” she said. “There have been countless learnings along the way, but the most significant is the value of hiring a great team of people, leveraging their talents, and making sure they feel valued and rewarded for their contributions.”

Now Dwell has become Batson’s second home, open to all who appreciate nature and creating a warm, inviting space to live. “My motto is ‘cohesive, yet comfortable,’” Batson said. Dwell follows suit as an airy, neutral space with abstract landscapes and a variety of metal, wood, cloth, ceramic, and glass textures.

One of the most important aspects of Batson’s designs is for the house to feel like a home in which families want to dwell, hence the name chosen for the shop. “I enjoy making people happy and I think loving the space you live in can be a big contributor to happiness.”

KEEPING IT TRENDY

Evolving is key for Batson’s continued success. Batson makes it a point

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY LOEB, JENN KOCH, JENNY LOSEE

to keep Dwell’s inventory is constantly changing. She does this by traveling across the country for new products and design trends. She also listens to her customers and keeps tabs on social media trends to do her best to ensure people can find the key items that will complete their desired home look.

“I source products that I love and would want to have in my own home,” she said. “And I listen for what our customers are wanting. A lot of the newer homes have open shelving, large walls, and tall ceilings. That lends itself to larger art, bigger accent items such as vases, trays and pots, and beautiful accessories for shelf styling.”

Batson has also developed positive relationships with local designers to help connect “their clients with products as well as helping refer our customers to local designers when needed.”

DESIGN INFLUENCES

Batson’s main design influence is her affinity for the Pacific Northwest’s shorelines and mountain regions. Practically, this means she’s drawn toward more earthy green and blue tones and organic shapes.

“My current style is transitional and nature-influenced,” Batson said, and her interpretation of the coastal vibe is far from seashells or nautical themes. Instead, she incorporates her love for a more airy, tranquil oceanside with rattan accents and other items that offer a natural aesthetic, creating a “mountain coastal’’ feel.

In Idaho, Batson gets that feeling in Stanley, her favorite spot for a weekend getaway. “I love spending time with my family on the beach and in the mountains,” she said. “The beauty of nature inspires many of the product selections in the shop, from the art we carry, to the greenery options and textures and colors throughout the store.”

Batson also cited interior designer Shea McGee, star of Netflix’s “Dream Home Makeover,” as someone she admires, but her design preferences as an adult  are” based on pieces I’m drawn to and that I think others will like based on current trends.”

CREATING SPACES

While Batson enjoys creating an inviting experience in her shop, she also loves going hands-on to help transform empty rooms into true living spaces. When thinking about home design, living rooms and shelf styling stand as Batson’s favorite spaces because “it’s where families spend the most time.”

One of her fondest memories in the home design experience thus far was with customers who utilized Dwell’s in-home design services. “[The couple] had purchased their home sight unseen and moved in with very few possessions,” Batson said. “They needed help warming up the space [and] sourcing furniture.”

Batson said that with her help, the couple’s cozy new space was ready just in time for Christmas. “The joy on their faces was the best!” she said. “We were able to help transform a house into their new home.”

FAMILY SPACE

As for her own family space, Batson’s home when she’s not at Dwell includes her husband Ryan, her son Jackson, three dogs, and Alfred

the chinchilla. Ryan is the reason Batson is in Boise. The couple met in Washington, then moved to Boise six years ago so their family could be closer to his relatives.  Those relatives help support Dwell as well. Currently, Ryan’s mother, Cindi Pritchett, helps out in the store, and you’ll also find her husband and son in the shop from time to time, assisting Batson and her other team members including Christine Clevenger, Delanie White, and Kobie White.

FOLLOWING DREAMS

“It’s funny thinking back on my first two homes and how many different paint colors I experimented with

—some were definitely better than others—and how my style has evolved over the years.” Her style still changing with the tides, Batson is ready to expand Dwell’s footprint in Eagle to offer more variety and pieces for every room in the house.

And with Dwell celebrating its second anniversary soon, Batson now encourages others to follow their own dreams since she’s shown that determination, persistence, and experience can pay off. “Don’t wait!” she said. “If you have an idea and something you’re passionate about, start taking steps toward your dream and just keep going until you get there.”

BATSON’S TIPS FOR SHELF STYLING

When choosing items for your shelves, you’ll want to consider placement, size, shape, texture & material, and color.

1. PLACEMENT: When placing items on your shelves, try varying the size and arrangement of objects. For example, one shelf may have three complimentary objects grouped together while the next might have just one large centered item or two objects side-by-side with differing heights. We also recommend creating a visual zig-zag pattern with color. For example, you might place a wood bowl stacked atop books on the upper left shelf, a wood tray down and to the right of the bowl, and wood chain links draped over books on the bottom left shelf. Using a zig-zag pattern will create a sense of balance.

2. SIZE: Give yourself permission to be brave with larger pieces and use smaller items to complement the larger. Examples of larger items that work well for shelving include tall vases, pottery (with or without stems), vertically placed books, pots with greenery that fills the space, oversized bowls, artwork, and tall candle sticks. Smaller items can add interest and dimension when placed next to larger pieces or sitting atop a stack of books, or in a tray.

3. SHAPE: Consider the shapes you’re using and vary them. For example, you might use a rectangular stack of books with rounded marble rings on top or a leaning round tray with a wicker box offset in front of it. Mixing different shapes makes for a visually appealing space.

4. TEXTURE AND MATERIAL: Texture is an important and often overlooked key to styling. We suggest incorporating a variety of textures and materials such as wood, glossy or matte finishes, pieces with an aged or distressed appearance, metal, glass, etc.

5. COLOR: The neutral palette can be calming and beautiful when used with the above tips. If you choose to incorporate color, we recommend selecting one

to two colors and weaving them into a few different spaces on your shelves to maintain consistency. This could be as simple as a set of blue sea-glass beads draped over a stack of books on one shelf, and on another, a piece of art or a pot with a similar blue tone. Greenery also makes for a great pop of color and helps to bring the outside in.

Allow yourself to play and remember there is no such thing as the “right answer” when it comes to decorating your home. What matters is that it brings YOU joy!

“The beauty of nature inspires many of the product selections in the shop, from the art we carry, to the greenery options and textures and colors throughout the store.”

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INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN OF BOISE

WHAT MOTIVATES AN EXTREMELY SUCCESSFUL NUTRITIONIST, ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE, BANK CEO AND POLITICIAN-TURNED-MEETING-FACILITATOR?

What do the owner of an Idaho nutrition company, the CEO of a major bank, a former State Legislator-turned-media personality and the COO of an award-winning ad agency all have in common? They are four influential business women who are keeping the city’s commerce sector bustling.

In fact, as Boise continues to rank among the top 10 cities for jobseekers in the U.S., according to MoneyGeek, these four female leaders are also helping inspire younger women to strive for greatness in the city’s burgeoning white-collar sectors. Get to better know Deneen May, Jill Watterson, Jana Kemp and Deena LaJoie in the following pages.

JANA KEMP

FACILITATOR, AUTHOR, SPEAKER

Jana Kemp is a Renaissance Woman. The former Republican State House Legislator and independent gubernatorial candidate is also an author, a media personality, facilitator, presenter, speaker, writer and change agent.

Try putting all that on a business card. When asked to name her current main focuses, Kemp narrowed them down to facilitating meetings, coordinating employee education workshops and writing — both her own books and ones she ghostwrites. If “meeting facilitator” seems like a superfluous role, then you haven’t attended a meeting lately. On their way back to the office after COVID shutdowns, many employees appear to have forgotten basic steps like taking meeting minutes, setting an agenda and following through on decision-making.

“I’m brought in when meetings become so painful that people want help,” she said. “I really enjoy facilitating, through which I can help groups accomplish their purposes. At the same time, I get to learn what the employees’ passionate projects are. It’s variety-filled.”

Thirty years ago, Kemp founded Jana M Kemp, LLC, the umbrella organization for most of her projects. She has always worked as a contractor or worker for hire.

But actually, Kemp started honing her human-resource skills back when she was in her jammies.

“Growing up in 4H, we learned to run and participate meetings and understand rules of order,” Kemp recalled.

Obviously, Kemp has near-limitless highlights in a vast-reaching career that encompasses various fields in the for-profit, nonprofit and government sectors. But the most historically significant one is that she was the first woman on the general election ballot for governor in Idaho.

“I remember saying, ‘Let me not be the first and last candidate in this century,’” Kemp said, noting that another female candidate appeared on the ballot after her.

In light of all her tremendous accomplishments over the years, the Idaho Historical Society recognized her in an exhibit about trailblazing women.

“I’m really proud to have been included along with Ruth Bader Ginsburg, astronauts and Olympians,” Kemp said.

DENEEN MAY

CEO, ZIONS BANK

Zions Bank Chief Executive Officer Deneen May has spent her entire career in banking, in positions from commercial lending to retail.

Her fascination with coordinating meetings and serving as team leader started at an early age. May recalled being in 4H.

In 2009, she joined Zions Bank as manager of its Meridian Silverstone Branch. She helped many businesses prosper by providing financing, growing their branch loan portfolio by $18 million during her first six years as manager.

In 2021, May was promoted to Western Idaho Region President, responsible for the strategic direction, market share growth and profitability of the bank’s 12 branches in the Treasure Valley and North Idaho.

“Helping my employees grow in their individual roles while developing a synergistic team makes it worth coming to work each day,” May said.

May said she is passionate about small-business lending because it helps create new jobs and bring economic prosperity to Idaho communities. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, more than 176,000 Idaho small businesses employ more than half of the Gem State’s workers, May noted.

“I’m proud that Zions Bank has consistently been among the top ranked Idaho lenders for U.S. Small Business Administration loans, which are a strong financing option for new businesses,” she said.

May serves on the advisory board of directors of the Boise Chamber of Commerce, as well as the board of directors for Capital Matrix. She also engages in the community through Zions Bank’s Paint-a-Thon, United Way Day of Caring and Teach Children to Save Day. Previously, she served on the board for the Meridian Food Bank and Meridian Chamber.

Zions Bank has a rich history of bolstering economic growth and fostering opportunity for all, May said. She added that, when the bank opened its doors in 1873, it was one of the few institutions to open savings accounts for women.

“Each day, I strive to advance Zions Bank’s mission to create value for the communities we serve — and it’s gratifying to contribute to Idaho’s national leadership in job creation,” she said.

JILL WATTERSON

COO, PARTNER, DUFT WATTERSON

If there’s one thing all Boiseans can agree on, it’s that the city’s population continues to go up, up, up. And when a metro area is booming, that means more commerce, industry, companies — and, of course, advertising.

It’s time for Idaho native Jill Watterson to shine. And she does. Watterson boasts an ear-to-ear smile and a down-to-earth nature that comes from running a farm (which she does, with her husband and two children). She also exudes a quiet confidence that one gains when sitting atop a bustling advertising agency.

Nicknamed “Idaho’s most awarded advertising agency,” Duft Watterson — which Watterson founded with business partner Ward Duft — won 2020 Agency of the Year from Ad Age, among other honors.

Make no mistake about it: Duft Watterson had to do a bunch of climbing to reach the prestigious, peak position the ad agency is in right now.

“It used to be people didn’t know much about Boise and didn’t consider it a metro area, so it was tough for us as an agency,” Watterson recalls of the company starting in 2004. “It was hard to get our foot in the door with a meeting.”

However, it was during those early years — when revenue was an occasional trickle instead of a steady stream — that Watterson made sure she built personal relationships with clients she believed would stick with her practice no matter what.

“I grew up with a dad who owned a business, and I watched him work his rear end off to get the business to where he wanted it to be,” she said.

Indeed, “tenacity” is a word that must be included in any conversation about Watterson. Thanks in part to her hard work, the ad agency’s client list includes Geisinger Health System, HiRoad Insurance, Washington Trust Bank, Zacca Hummus and Combat Flip Flops.

Oh, and a little hospital system you may have heard of, too.

“We recently gained St. Luke’s, which is really great,” Watterson noted.

With that line, Watterson just earned another award — for Biggest Understatement of the Year.

DEENA LAJOIE

OWNER, IDAHO NUTRITION

“People will tell you they know what they need to do to get healthy. But I don’t think they really do.”

That’s the conclusion Boise nutritionist Deena LaJoie inevitably arrived at — and continues to believe — after decades of researching and educating herself about both physical and mental health.

Ask 10 people for one diet tip each, and you’ll get 10 different diet tips. LaJoie says diets are trendy and fail more often than not.

For LaJoie, “Nutrition and lifestyle are the missing pieces to the puzzle of our culture.”

LaJoie inadvertently entered into the world of nutrition after seeing what her five children ate at school: candy bars that teachers gave them as rewards and snacks for minuscule amounts of exercise.

“We’ve been setting up younger people for disaster over the years,” LaJoie said. “And now there’s evidence of that. We might be looking at the first generation that won’t live longer than their parents.”

Subsequently, LaJoie obtained her Resident Doctor credential and worked as a dietician over the past 10 years. In turn, those accomplishments provided the foundation atop which she built Idaho Nutrition

The company’s philosophy involves coaching and educating patients about nutrition. It also hosts an array of services, from health coaching to weight loss to sports nutrition to supplements and more.

LaJoie’s bustling business now boasts 11 staff dietitians who work part-time (except for LaJoie, of course).

“Being a dietitian is something like being a teacher,” she said. “You’re not going to make a fortune. You’re doing it because you generally care. You want to see your children be healthy, grow up in a healthy environment and live healthy lives.”

LaJoie continued, pivoting to her thoughts about her own life.

“What has guided me to develop this business and keep growing it is the fact that I believe registered dietitians and nutritionists are an underutilized but very valuable component of our health care system,” she said.

“That’s what I reach for.”

www.oliveandvyne.com

Olive & Vyne

Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar Tasting Room

Boutique Wine Shop

Local Artisan Foods

Kitchen Accessories, Cookbooks

Gift Baskets & More!

Olive & Vyne

Patio Events every Thursday in Eagle

Second Location

New building in Caldwell will add a wine bar, themed wine rooms, clubs & more tasting events and classes!

Come visit us!

Eagle Location 600 S Rivershore Ln, Ste 160 Eagle, Idaho, 208-939-6775

Caldwell Location 811 Main St Caldwell, Idaho 208-453-6992

Olive & Vyne

ARTICLE BY CHELSEA CHAMBERS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

#OMG Female Filmmakers

STEPHANIE CULLEN TRANSPORTING VIEWERS TO NEW PLACES, NEW WORLDS, AND NEW ADVENTURES

Do you remember which movie stood out to you most as a child? Or maybe there were several that you just couldn’t help but watch over and over again. Film, like most art, has a way of speaking to us—connecting us to something beyond our present moment. Through the magic of film, we are each transported (sometimes catapulted) to new places, new worlds, and new adventures.

“I attribute my love of film to my dad. We used to rent movies every weekend and one of the first ones I remember, after the cartoon Strawberry Shortcake, was E.T. by Steven Spielberg,” Stephanie Cullen, founder of #OMGFemaleFilmmakers, began to explain. “I’m pretty sure we rented that on beta-max and even had to rent the beta-max machine from the local grocery store in Hawai’i just to watch the movie. After E.T., I fell in love with all the 80s classics, my favorite being The Goonies.” And just like that, something amazing was set in motion. In all the magical and wonderful ways we can never fully realize, Stephanie’s future was unfolding.

“I attribute my love of film to my dad. We used to rent movies every weekend and one of the first ones I remember, after the cartoon Strawberry Shortcake, was E.T. by Steven Spielberg,”

In February of 2022, Stephanie made the leap to leave her day-job at HP and pursue her production company dreams full-time. “And it was a success!”

Born in Hawaii on the island of O’ahu, Stephanie spent most of her early childhood roaming the tropical shorelines until her family opted to swap coastal views for those of Federal Way, Washington. After high school, Stephanie spent time in Colorado and California before finding her way to Boise in 2005. And all throughout, filmmaking was never far from her mind.

“In 2011, I started working at HP doing data entry and, on the weekends, I would make short films with my friends.” A few years later, a contract job came available asking people to create video content for the customer support team. “I made a short how-to video about how to change the batteries in a flashlight and I got the job! My first week in that position, I had to create a video about HP’s Instant Ink program, start to finish, and it had to be completed by that Friday. I got it done and I attribute that first week’s success to the many 48-hour film festivals I’d participated in here in Boise.”

It takes a certain caliber of person to be able to take part in a high-intensity, high-pressure 48-hour film competition. In this case, the same caliber of person who also worked a full-time job while starting the process of having her own production studio. While simultaneously going to graduate school, creating video content for nearly a dozen clients, participating in the Leadership Boise Program, serving on the board of Kessler Keener Foundation and as a chair for Ballet Idaho, competing in the 2021 Strongwoman Competition, running multiple Race to Robie Creek Marathons, and raising a lovely troupe of pets including a 19-year-old cat.

In February of 2022, Stephanie made the leap to leave her day-job at HP and pursue her production company dreams full-time. “And it was a success! In December 2022, I signed a lease on my studio space in Garden City,” Stephanie shared with a smile. “As I started working through the logistics of having a production company plus a physical studio space that I rent out to other creators, companies, and individuals, I decided to create a second LLC. I registered OMG Studios Boise in January of 2023, and just had my ribbon cutting on March 14, Pi Day.”

And we’re so excited to see what comes next for Stephanie and OMG Studios. To learn more about Stephanie, #OMGFemaleFilmmakers, her stories and her work, visit her online at omgFemaleFilmmakers.com.

LOVE YOUR LAZY LAWN

An easy way to help the ecosystem

Give some thought to this. Almost all US fruit and grain crops depend on pollination, yet our insect population has declined by 75% in the last 25 years - and most pollinators are insects.

Fortunately, keeping pollinators (and our local farms) alive couldn’t be easier. Just get lazy about your lawn!

Lawns mowed every two weeks offer more food for pollinators than lawns mowed weekly. So, while you’re lounging on the couch every other Saturday, your longer grass will be supporting American food systems. As a bonus, longer lawns also need less water, so being lazy saves you money, too.

Perfect lawns are literally the empty calories of the ecosystem. By letting go of that green-carpet ideal, you’ll add color to your landscape by allowing dandelions, violets, and white clover to decorate your grass. More important, these “weeds” feed pollinators which, in turn, feed us.

Here’s one more way being lazy can save the world: skip the pesticides. Pesticides kill pollinators, and they’re hardly health food for humans, birds, and pets, either. In fact, research shows that when bees visit plants treated with neonicotinoids (a chemical in most pesticides), even small amounts can build up over time and kill the hive. Neonicotinoids disorient bees and disrupt their fertility. Worse, they can linger in plants and pollen for 2-4 years.

So be a hero. Stay in bed this weekend and stop fussing over your lawn.

For more information, visit www.fs.usda.gov/ treesearch/pubs/55816

ARTICLE BY ANDREA BUGBEE

Boise + Eagle Events

MAY 2023

1-31 — THE ART OF JEAN LAMARR, BOISE ART MUSEUM

Featuring paintings, prints, and sculptures, spanning from the 1970s to the present. BoiseArtMuseum.org

4-7 — BALLET IDAHO - SWAN LAKE

Morrison Center 6:30 PM: Look for a professional classical ballet company and academy in Idaho. MorrisonCenter.com

5 — FROM THE BAYOU TO BOISE, A CAJUN FEAST!

Basque Center, 5:30 PM: Cajun style feast along with New Orleans style procession and music. Basquecenter.com

6-21 — SPRING PARADE OF HOMES

Treasure Valley Locations: Parade of Homes is a showcase of home designs in new construction. BoiseParadeOfHomes.com

6 — NINJA MOUNTAIN BIKE CLINICS

Boise, Idaho, 8:45 AM: The 2-Day Course for riders who want to gain the skills and confidence to ride in a variety of environments. ridelikeaninja.com

6 — EXPERIENCE IDAHO EXPO

Expo Idaho, 9:00 AM: It’s a daylong celebration of the amazing Idaho businesses, artisans, and consumers! iblevents.com

6 — GIRLS DAY OUT EXPO

Expo Idaho, Glenwood St., 9:00 AM: This program features spa services, makeovers, and other beauty-related topics. ibleventsinc.com

6 — IDAHO HEALTH + FITNESS EXPO

Expo Idaho, 10:00 AM: Here’s the ultimate combination of care for one’s body and mind with exercise and enjoyment! iblevents.com

7 — SEVEN SUNS ARCHERY

Expo Idaho, 8:00 AM: We’re bringing you a wide selection of traditional bows and accessories, including sizes for adults and children. iblevents.com

7 — ROMEO AND JULIET PLUS THE MASTERWORKS

Morrison Center, 4:00 PM: Romeo and Juliet inspired Gregory Taboloff to write his first Sonata for piano. gregorytaboloff.com

13 — BOISE TREE CLIMBING COMPETITION

Julia Davis Park, 8:00 AM: Climbers of all experience levels can greatly benefit from attending this educational event and skills competition. pnwisa.org

13 — JUDY COLLINS

Egyptian Theatre, 8 PM: Grammy Award–winning American Folk singer-songwriter with a career spanning over 60 years. EgyptianTheatre.net

13 — IDAHO POTATO MARATHON & FUN RUNS

Albertsons Headquarters, 7 AM: The YMCA Famous full, half, 10K & 5K run on the Boise Greenbelt. ymcatvidaho.org

19 — ZOO BOISE WINE SAFARI

Zoo Boise, 8:00 AM: Try wines from all over the world while you listen to animal experts and get exclusive zoo access. Zooboise.org

19 — COMEDIAN CHRIS D’ELIA

Idaho Central Arena, 8 PM: Chris D’Elia “Don’t Push Me Tour”. IdahoCentralArena.com

20 — LUKE COMBS WORLD TOUR

Albertsons Stadium, 5:30 PM: Country superstar and reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year. Ticketmaster.com

20 — BOISE PHILHARMONIC, A SEA OF SOUND

Morrison Center, 7:30 PM: Mahler’s Fifth symphony embracing a world of emotion. MorrisonCenter.com

20 — SOUTHERN AFRICAN SPRING PICNIC

Surprise Valley Clubhouse, 3:30 PM: All attendees should bring their own drinks, as well as meat to braai and a side dish, salad, or dessert to share. allevents.in

20 — PUBLIC ART WALKING TOUR

Boise Watershed, 9:30 AM: The Public Art Program Team invites you to the Boise WaterShed to view public artwork. Boiseartsandhistory.org

20 — GEORGE MICHAEL REBORN

Egyptian Theatre, 7 PM: Robert Bartko exudes the energy and passion of George in the 80’s and 90’s. EgyptianTheatre.net

23-25 — RIVERDANCE

Morrison Center, 7:30 PM: The international Irish dance phenomenon is back by popular demand. MorrisonCenter.com

ENDLESS ADVENTURE EVERY DAY.

With a second home at Tamarack Resort, lifelong memories are just a few steps from your front door. No matter the season or the size of your family, there’s something for everyone: World-class skiing and mountain biking trails for thrill seekers. Tranquil lakes, a scenic golfing experience and views for those who like to take things a little slower. And a vibrant community that brings everyone together.