Boise, ID June 2025 by City Lifestyle

From

Our

SOME

COME FOR THE SLOW PACE. SOME DON’T.

For the Men Who Make It Matter

The stories in this month’s issue aren’t about bravado. They’re about presence. About the men who invest their time, talent, and energy into something beyond themselves—and in doing so, help shape Boise into the city we love.

Some build with their hands, others with their voices. Some lead from the front, others from backstage. But all carry a common thread: they care. About people. About impact. About doing things the right way.

You’ll meet men who blend horsepower with philanthropy, and others who bring rhythm, creativity, and emotion to their art. There are those who’ve made a career out of mentoring the next generation—on fields, in classrooms, or through local businesses. One has turned his passion for sport into a platform for growth. Another found a way to turn kindness into a movement. Whether through craft, cause, or community, these men lead with intention. Many inherited that drive from the generations before them. Others are building it anew, one meaningful step at a time.

As we reflect this month on fatherhood, mentorship, and leadership in its many forms, we’re reminded that strength doesn’t always announce itself. Sometimes, it’s just there—consistent, steady, and quietly shaping the future.

Thanks for reading—and Happy Father’s Day.

June 2025

PUBLISHER

Vince Gewalt | vince.gewalt@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Tricia Busalacchi | tricia.busalacchi@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Jordan Gray | editorial@boisecitylifestyle.com

SALES SUPPORT ASSISTANT

Maria Serondo | support@boisecitylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Russell Detablan | editorial@boisecitylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jordan Gray, Martha Channer, Tammy De Weerd, Renee Van Ausdle, Jana Kemp, Mel Boban, Chelsea Lyn Agro, Katie Bobbow

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Phil White, 8th Street Studio, Mike Reid, Bob Vestal

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Jewelry, Fast Cars, and Generosity

Dialogue with a Dancer

Blending

Bighorns, Boots, Lacrosse

Josh

Begins Here

Karin Otto OWNER

fast cars and JEWELRY GENEROSITY

Crafting connections through cause and community

ARTICLE BY JORDAN GRAY

Building a thriving community is a multi-faceted effort. And when it comes to facets, Blake Simmons of Simmons Fine Jewelry knows a thing or two.

Founded by his father, Jay Simmons, the brand has been a Treasure Valley tradition for more than 36 years. Both the family and the business help support a number of charitable causes and events across the Treasure Valley and Idaho.

“It is important to us; that we support and rub shoulders with our friends in the community and show that we’re with them and appreciate them,” Blake Simmons said.

HELPING IDAHO

“There are certain people who come in and solicit the support of charity,” he said “There’re others that we’ve connected with organically. There are people who shop here who are involved with supporting these causes as well, and it’s a gesture of community and good faith to support them where they’re at and what they feel is important to the community. It just feels good to be involved with things that are making a difference.”

Recently, that’s included Foster + Heart, a Treasure Valley nonprofit aimed at meeting the needs of children in foster care. Simmons Fine Jewelry partnered with the nonprofit in October, offering the proceeds of the business’ annual Show and Shine event. The gathering of car enthusiasts recently evolved into a trunk-or-treat event for families and a fundraiser which featured more than 100 cars decked out for Halloween with candy-filled trunks.

“That’s a need that is here, and I don’t think a lot of Idaho understands that,” Simmons said.

A LOVE OF CARS AND CAUSES

The Simmons family enjoy fast cars. Founder Jay Simmons’ 60th birthday gift from his wife was a Lava Orange Porsche 911 with ‘CARATS’ license plates.

Events like the Show and Shine allow them to put their love and community and cars into one spot. The business sponsored IndyCar driver and Idahoan Sting Ray Robb during his last two seasons, who then appeared during the 2024 event and auctioned off a signed racing suit for the cause.

“It is a common passion to support the community in this way,” Blake Simmons said. “Sting Ray is a great advocate for meaningful causes and foster

care is a cause close to his heart. It was a joy to join passions for cars while supporting our community at the same time. We have a lot of clients that love cars.”

Simmons has also partnered with the Sun Valley Tour De Force, which bills itself as “one of the world’s most unique charity events.” The high-octane event is set for July 17-19. Proceeds from this annual three-day event have helped fund more than $2.2 million in donations to multiple nonprofits.

“It’s exciting to be part of something that brings people together and gives back,” Blake Simmons said.

“It’s not about the cars or the jewelry,” Jay Simmons said. “It’s about the people. These events let us connect with the community in ways that matter. We love supporting the causes that they do. We’ve seen the difference these donations have made in many nonprofits in Idaho, like The Hunger Coalition.”

The Hunger Coalition is a nonprofit organization based in Bellevue, Idaho, dedicated to combating food insecurity in Blaine County. Founded in 2003, its mission is to build a healthier community by ensuring access to nutritious food and addressing the root causes of hunger through collaboration, education, and advocacy.

Some events have benefited from jewelry donations, like the Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees.

“We’ve been very supportive of Saint Alphonsus and the Festival of Trees,” Jay Simmons said. “We always donate a Hearts on Fire diamond necklace or piece of custom jewelry, like last year’s 40th anniversary Ruby and Diamond Saint Alphonsus logo pendant. It’s kind of a joy.”

MAKING AN IMPACT

For Jay Simmons, these efforts are deeply personal.

“I was born in Idaho, and I love Idaho,” he said. “Giving back is part of who we are. It’s how we show gratitude for the community that’s supported us all these years.”

Blake Simmons echoed his father’s sentiments.

“Whether it’s helping someone celebrate a milestone or raising money for a good cause, we’re in the business of making people feel seen, celebrated, and valued,” Blake added. “That’s what drives us. We just love spending time with our friends in the community.”

For more, visit SimmonsFineJewelry.com.

DIALOGUE with a DANCER

ARTICLE BY MARTHA CHANNER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKE REID + BOB VESTAL

Meet Yurek Hansen, a second-generation choreographer and dancer exploring the strength, grace, and grit it takes to move with purpose.

Yurek is an earthy guy, born and raised in Idaho, with a long history of athletic achievement that includes lacrosse, martial arts, and football. “Dance is the ultimate challenge,” he explains. “It’s where athleticism merges with imagination. No one wakes up one morning and shouts out, ‘I think I’ll be a dancer.’ It is a slow, painful, ongoing trial by fire that requires great endurance, athletic prowess, and sheer grace.” Yurek dances to express the totality of himself—both as a serious athlete and as a theatrical performer with a profound artistic message to share.

So, what is it like for Yurek to be a man in a field that is often considered woman-dominated? Having been raised by a father who was also a dancer, he dispels the common mythology surrounding the “girliness” of dance. “Men bring power to the dance—a raw physical strength that, when done well, is like the beauty of a dangerous panther. Male gracefulness is different from what women bring to the artform; it is often more edgy and stark—not better, just different.” However, male dancers also have the opportunity to exhibit a

wide range of human emotions, including gentleness and sensitivity. Water bottle in hand, he demonstrates a man cradling someone he loves: “Deep dancing exhibits all the noble male traits like love, support, protection, and vigilance, along with other keen and subtle expressions that require the display of authentic emotions.”

What do other men think of this? Yurek replies, “Men are generally and genuinely interested to know more about how and why I chose this career. I explain that I see it as the path of the natural man, a path that thrives on instinct and the exploration of life’s mysteries; a form of ritual that was once tribal and is now art.” He, of course, also demonstrates an enviable acrobatic and raw breakdancing ability, along with his modern dance and ballet training, that most men would find impressive. According to Yurek, being a man in the dance world is being a man: a protector, a father, a facilitator, and a defender of what he believes in.

He acknowledges that his role as both an artist and a director is complex. As the current Artistic Director of Idaho Dance Theatre (which his parents, Marla and Fred Hansen, founded thirty-six years ago), he has learned to manage a heavy workload while directing his company and also teaching as an adjunct professor. “Dance has the elasticity to bring together philosophy, history, and culture—especially through choreography; a wordless storytelling medium that allows the viewer to engage viscerally and spiritually. Whether I’m directing a concert or creating choreography, I have to employ structural knowledge and spatial awareness—something that the viewer will understand

“MEN BRING POWER TO THE DANCE - A RAW physical strength THAT, WHEN DONE WELL, IS LIKE THE BEAUTY OF A dangerous panther.”

intuitively as gravity.” Yurek’s educational background in architecture and drafting makes him especially aware of the development of this sort of “kinetic sculpture,” which is a necessity for both choreography and the staging of a production.

Yurek often talks about authenticity—what it means to be real. He becomes especially real when he mentions his life partner Nicole, who is also the managing director for Idaho Dance Theatre. “No matter how talented or creative we are, it’s people like Nicole who keep the whole thing going. As much as I love to facilitate for others in all the ways that we have discussed, I know that I couldn’t do that without her endless patience and dedication.” Yurek smiles and stretches a bit—we have been talking for several hours. As he lets go of his leadership face, replacing it with a quieter, humbler one, he suddenly looks as if he has answered his own deep question. He turns back and says, “I’m a lucky guy in so many ways.”

Photo: Mike Reid

Priceless Memories

Advice Editorial: Gift Giving Inspiration For Dads

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

Retro Movie Night

Enjoy a movie night together with popcorn, candy and all the fixings. Home movies enable strolls down memory lane, or one of his favorite movies from his childhood makes for fun conversation. Ordering a projector for a large format screening makes the movie night feel extra theatrical.

Learn Together

Learning a new skill together, or sharing a favorite hobby, is a great way to bond. If Dad likes woodworking or fishing, finding a class to attend together goes beyond gifting tools and allows fun.

Blast From The Past

Brainstorm childhood memories together and enjoy a day reliving them. If he chaperoned a trip to the zoo, experience it again together. If short on time, stop at a favorite ice cream stand and tell him how much you cherish the memories.

With clean lines and a modern aesthetic, Ultra™ Series fiberglass windows and doors add style to any home. Through a careful design process, Milgard offers these durable, low maintenance, windows and doors that are designed to last. Available in 4 tough exterior finishes, Milgard Ultra features a Limited Lifetime Warranty for complete peace of mind.

PURPOSE-DRIVEN TREASURE VALLEY MEN

Fathers, founders, and everyday leaders whose commitment to purpose quietly strengthens the heart of the Treasure Valley.

Not every great story begins with a spotlight. Some begin with a handshake, a habit of showing up, or a decision to do what’s right— even when no one’s watching.

This month, we’re celebrating the men who define leadership through action. They’re the ones coaching after work, building businesses from the ground up, mentoring the next generation, or quietly supporting causes that matter. They carry responsibility with grace and lead with a kind of confidence that doesn’t need to be loud to be strong.

These men come from every corner of the Treasure Valley, and their impact is woven into the fabric of our neighborhoods, workplaces,

and lives. Some are innovators. Some are protectors. All are contributors.

They remind us that success doesn’t always look like a headline. Sometimes, it looks like patience. Like follow-through. Like standing up when it’s easier to sit back.

In this issue, we honor 20 men whose stories may vary—but whose values run deep. Their character speaks louder than titles, and their influence is felt long after the conversation ends.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Know someone worth spotlighting in a future issue? We’d love to hear from you.

Email: Editorial@BoiseCityLifestyle.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHIL WHITE, 8TH STREET STUDIO

Daniel Wallis, Heritage Hardwood Flooring

Drey Campbell, Lee & Associates

Curt Asmussen, Inn at 500 Capitol

Gene Zufelt, View Point, Inc

enthusiasts enthusiasts

VEHICLE CONSIGNMENT

Our sales and management staff have unmatched expertise along with a vast customer database and client network earned over three decades.

UNIQUE Inventory

Our indoor showroom features a variety of exotic, luxury and collectible automobiles you won’t find anywhere else.

WE BUY CARS!

Have a unique, well optioned, low mileage, exotic, luxury, or collectible car? We pay top dollar!

FULL SERVICE Auto Salon

The Treasure Valley’s best in full detail services, paint correction, ceramic coatings, paint protection film, and complete vinyl wraps.

CUSTOM BUILDS

Our experienced team of mechanics can handle engine swaps, suspension, custom electronics and accessories, and so much more.

MAINTENANCE & REPAIR

Certified technicians and parts suppliers with experience in a vast array of unique brands.

Nikolai Castoro, Torro Restaurants Group

Daniel Sprague, HB Workplaces

Mark D. McAllister, Sunway Commercial

Brandon VanWaeyenberghe, The Boise Phil

Dave Wilhite, CFP® & Bill Overton, CFP®

Todd Christensen, CapEd Credit Union

Drake Beaudry, Park Place LTD

Calvert Elliott, Avery Hotel

Dr. John Dewitt, Keystone Physical Medicine

THE AMBROSE SCHOOL

PreK - 12th Classical Christian Education

SCHEDULE A CAMPUS VISIT TODAY!

We invite new families to schedule a campus visit to discover whether a classical Christian education is the right fit for your family.

To learn more, go to theambroseschool.org.

Adam Pitale and Tony D’Amato, Enzo’s Hand Wash & Detail

Chef Lou, Westside Drive In Kelly Woodhouse, Woodhouse Group

Benjamin Wasby, Les Bois Wines

Spencer Wheeler, Hoagland Meat

Jim Sterk, Lithia Ford Lincoln

Tyrone Flower, Royal British Motocars

Drake Beaudry, Lupo Motors

SO YOU WANT TO BE A COWBOY

Favorably referred to as the “Last Best Place” and the “Treasure State,” Montana has captured the hearts of cinematic cowboys like Taylor Sheridan and Harrison Ford and inspired the television series, “Yellowstone” and its prequels, “1883” and “1923.” Though fictional, they’ve reminded America of its deeply-rooted spirit for adventure and the simple yet rugged way of life that we all crave. Whether its the backdrop of jagged, snowcapped peaks or the endless golden pastures that are peppered with livestock, this Rocky Mountain soil is a breeding ground for dreamers and doers, and the people who call it home are no strangers to the ritual of ranch life.

So, you want to be a cowboy? Slipping on some leather and having a little hide in your hat are good ways to start, but visiting a resort that brings the best of this life to the forefront, while also embracing modern luxury, is the experience of a lifetime. Personalization is key—a divine selection of cuisine for the foodies, awe-inspiring activities for the adrenaline seekers, and world-class lodging that tickles every fancy from stargazing glamping, to timber-style family dwellings, to the uniquely designed green “o hauses” that invite the outside world in.

WHAT TO DO

To change your attitude, you need a change in altitude. Gain some speed or turn up the adrenaline level with ATV tours, electric biking, mountain biking, go-karts, paintball, rappelling down Lookout Rock or whitewater rafting down the Blackfoot River. Indulge in the western art of living with archery, fly-fishing, hiking or sporting clays. For those who want to immerse themselves in the language of horses, there are horse-related adventures such as lessons, grooming or feeding, horse-whispering workshops or organized trails rides. Riders can also enjoy cattle drives that bring you back to yesteryear—driving a herd of cattle across the famed landscape—and bear witness to mustang gentling, where the Equestrian Manager communicates with a wild horse through body language and tone of voice.

DISCOVER THE WHIMSY OF THE WEST AT PAWS UP MONTANA

HOW TO GET HERE

Airport: Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) Airport transfers from Missoula are complimentary for guests and all luxury home and Green O accommodations come with a Lexus luxury SUV for transportation use on property.

DRINK & DINE

Montana’s best kept secret? Our hideaway chefs, making waves from the Montana wilderness. Chef Brandon Cunningham, Executive Chef at the Green O, is a James Beard Award finalist whose creations at the Social Haus are highly curated through an 8-course tasting menu. Other highly trained and talented chefs like Chef Brett Edlund, Chef Ben Scott, Executive Pastry Chef Krystle Swenson, and Sunny Jin, the General Manager of Food and Beverage, are part of the intricate patchwork of the culinary experience at Pomp, Trough, Shed, Camp and the notable Chuck Wagon—a summertime treat where guests can ride a hay wagon along the banks of the Blackfoot River for an Old West-inspired chuck wagon dinner.

CHELSEA LYN AGRO PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

JOSH NORTON BRINGS IDAHO ITS FIRST SEMI-PRO LACROSSE TEAM, BLENDING LOCAL PRIDE, YOUTH DEVELOPMENT, AND A LIFELONG PASSION FOR THE GAME

Bighorns, Boots, Lacrosse

ARTICLE BY RENEE VAN AUSDLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSH NORTON + RENEE VAN

AUSDLE

Boise local Josh Norton uses his talent and nearly two decades of experience to grow lacrosse in the Treasure Valley, bringing players from all backgrounds together to compete on the new semi-professional team, the Boise Bighorns.

Norton first picked up a lacrosse stick in third grade and never looked back. He played in local youth leagues and later earned a spot on the AllIdaho team. He also played for Eagle High School, Boise State University, and in Washington, D.C. In 2017, he landed his childhood dream job at LaxID.

“I get to gear kids up, teach them the sport, string sticks, and do design work for local teams,” Norton said. “My job is amazing, and I’m grateful for it.”

Norton aspires to grow lacrosse in the Treasure Valley by starting the first and only semi-professional lacrosse team in Idaho. “Lacrosse has given me so much, I want to give back and grow it as far as I can,” Norton said.

When naming the team, Norton considered various ideas—from birds to frontiersmen—but ultimately wanted something uniquely Idaho.

“The Box Lacrosse League handled the design and naming—but as soon as I saw it, I was sold,” Norton said. “My family’s full of hunters, and my mom has a bighorn sheep mounted at home.”

On April 19th, the Boise Bighorns competed in their first exhibition game in Draper, Utah against the Wasatch Whalers. The team plans to travel back to Utah multiple times for games and to Colorado. Norton hopes to eventually host games and events in Boise.

Norton envisions launching youth programs and creating a Bighorn’s youth team—perhaps called the Billy Goats. These younger players would be coached by Bighorn’s pros, forming a strong pipeline of athletes committed to growing the game the right way.

“Lacrosse is a medicine game. Through the ups and downs of life, it’s always been there, helping me through the darkest times and celebrating the brightest. It’s the Creator’s Game for a reason, and I can’t wait to see what it brings to Boise.”

ARTICLE BY JANA KEMP

BY PHIL WHITE, 8TH STREET STUDIO

COMING HOME TO GUITARS

FROM VINTAGE TREASURES TO WORLD-RECORD AMPS, 12TH FRET MUSIC STRIKES A CHORD WITH MUSICIANS SEEKING QUALITY GEAR, EXPERT SERVICE, AND A COMMUNITY THAT LISTENS

Boise has its own “Norman’s Rare Guitars” in the 12th Fret Music shop at 671 South Capitol Boulevard. If you’ve watched the documentary about Norman, you’ll be equally in awe seeing wall-to-wall and ceiling-hung guitars at Rob Ridgway’s 12th Fret Music.

Rob’s passion began when he was 14 or 15 years old, when he first started playing guitar. Rob became a professional musician, with a dream of opening a guitar store. He shared: “I remember I just loved being in music stores and feeling like I was at home.” Creating a sense

PHOTOGRAPHY

Rob Ridgway’s shop isn’t flashy, but it hums with history. On any given day, someone’s tuning up, someone’s reminiscing, and someone’s learning—quiet proof that Boise’s music scene doesn’t need a spotlight to stay alive.

of home has happened. The low-key atmosphere with a friendly and knowledgeable team invites question asking, staying for a while, and community building.

When Rob purchased 12th Fret Music, it was located off South Broadway. Rob has continued guitar and amp repair work with a passionate team on board. New, used, exclusives, and consignment guitars from more than 30 makers are in the store, plus multiple amp makers.

Selling, setting up, and repairing guitars and amps is a unique offering in Idaho. Want to test guitars and amps? Rob says, “Yes, come on in. We encourage this 100%. Instruments and sound are very personal to the player and every guitar and amp is going to resonate differently for each player and listener.”

Visitors and customers interact with team members and each other as they explore the store, the acoustic demo room, or the high-end electric demo room. In addition to guitars, you’ll find strings, picks, tuners, straps, accessories, and more. If you want to explore your collection’s worth, Rob’s team can appraise instruments.

Rob Ridgway (middle) with team members Glen, Marco, Eve and Steve

“It took a while to get to this point and I’m grateful for everyone who has helped get us here. When I hire, I look for a passion for instruments and music, and for people who can be of service to our customers.”

After the 2017 purchase, Rob shares: “We were bulging at the seams and knew we needed more space, but I wasn’t quite ready to move. Then, the complex was sold and the new landlords/owners wanted to increase our monthly lease payments by 90%. So, I started looking and was able to find our home on Capitol. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise for us!”

Building a friendly and knowledgeable team that creates a sense of home for customers requires careful hiring. Rob values his team and indicates “It took a while to get to this point and I’m grateful for everyone who has helped get us here. When I hire, I look for a passion for instruments and music, and for people who can be of service to our customers.”

As a Marshall distributor, Rob’s team has built the largest – and loudest – Marshall amp wall in the world and is hoping to earn a Guinness World Record. This wall will also be a part of a local charities fundraising effort. Stay tuned!

12th Fret Music has something for everyone: New players; People who have been playing for awhile and want to upgrade gear; People looking for pro-audio equipment; Through to high-end guitar collectors. Rob wants everyone to know: “We care about music as much as our customers do and we are here to enjoy the journey together.”

Guitar repairs

YOU BELONG AT THE Y!

ENJOY MEMBER RATES

· $30 Wellness 30 sessions

· $30 swim lessons

· $30 after-school programs

· $30/month for KidZone

· FREE Kids Night Out · FREE Youth Activity Center

SUMMER GRILL RECIPES

ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW

THESE DELICIOUS RECIPES ARE LIGHT, BRIGHT AND FEEL LIKE SUMMER

The sun has returned, and grilling season is upon us. With the nice weather comes vegetable gardens and fresh produce, along with the overwhelming desire to be outside as much as possible. We’ve compiled some fresh and light dishes that you can shop for at your local farmers market and whether you’re looking for a quick mid-week meal or something to grill for a crowd on the weekend these dishes won’t disappoint. These pair well together or can stand on their own!

INGREDIENTS:

• 2lbs. Outside skirt steak*

• 2 Tablespoons Lime*

• 2 Tablespoons finely, chopped cilantro

• ¼ Cup Olive oil or avocado oil

• ¼ White onion, finely chopped

• 1 Tablespoon cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Place skirt steak into gallon freezer bag

2. Combine all other ingredients in bowl and mix. Pour over steak and marinate for 3-4 hours or overnight in the fridge.

3. Bring skirt steak to room temperature by letting it sit out for one hour.

4. Get your grill hot on one side and medium on the other.

SIMPLE SKIRT STEAK

5. Once the grill is ready, wipe excess marinade off steak. Starting on the hot side, place skirt steak on grill for 2 minutes per side, attaining a nice sear.

6. Transfer steak to the cooler side of grill and cook until the internal temp is 130°. Let rest for 10 minutes (temp will rise while resting).

7. Carve and serve. This dish pairs well with beans and rice or served as tacos. Below is a chimichurri sauce that compliments it nicely.

*Outside skirt steak is a more tender cut than inside skirt steak, for this recipe outside skirt is recommended. Do not use too much lime as the citrus can cook the meat before putting it on the grill, resulting in a tougher texture.

CHIMICHURRI

INGREDIENTS:

• ½ Cup parsley, finely chopped

• ½ Cup cilantro, finely chopped

• 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 3 Cloves garlic, minced

• 1 Red chili (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)

• ½ Teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 Teaspoon salt

• 1 Tablespoon lime juice (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. You can make this in the late morning and let it sit for around 4-6 hours, or you can make it the day before and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just be sure to take it out and get it to room temp before you serve it, as olive oil hardens in the fridge. Serve over skirt steak or tacos.

ROASTED CORN SALSA

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 Ears sweet corn

• 10oz. Cherry tomatoes

• ¼ Cup lime juice

• 1 Finely chopped jalapeno or serrano (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)

• ¼ Cup cilantro, finely chopped

• ½ Cup white onion, chopped

• 2 Cloves garlic, minced

• Salt to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Grill corn, you do not need to soak the corn beforehand.

2. Place corn on the grill (inside their husks) over medium heat turning every few minutes.

3. After 10 to 12 minutes shuck the corn and put the cobs back on the grill for 2-4 minutes rotating frequently to achieve that charred look and flavor.

4. Cut the corn from the cob, place in bowl and add all other ingredients. Let the mixture meld for about an hour and serve with tortilla chips or as a taco garnish.

“More

Market: Why Farmers Markets Matter” The Boise Farmers Market Video Series

Boise + Eagle Events

JUNE 2025

1-30 — WINE & CIDER MONTH

Throughout Idaho: Wine & Cider tastings, events, and special offers. idahowines.org

1-7 — LITTLE WOMEN

Boise Little Theatre: A stage adaptation showcasing the March sisters’ journey. boiselittletheater.org

6-8 — GEM FAIRE

Expo Idaho: Hop gems and jewelry at wholesale prices gemfaire.com

7-21 — BOISE FARMERS MARKET

Saturdays, 1500 Shoreline Dr., 9 AM: Local harvest—seasonal produce, artisan goods, fresh proteins, and ready-to-eat food. TheBoiseFarmersMarket.com

7 — TREASURE VALLEY TRIATHLON

Simplot Park, 9 AM: Largest adaptive triathlon in the western United States. ymcatvidaho.org

7 — TREASURE VALLEY RESCUE RUN

Reid Merrill Park, 8 AM: Kids, strollers, and dogs welcome! runsignup.com

7 — SUMMER CELEBRATION AND ICE CREAM SOCIAL!

PUP, 2735 E. Kuna Rd., 4 PM: Dog-friendly ice cream, local vendors, raffles, free dog swims. pupidaho.com

8 — SAVOR IDAHO 2025

Idaho Botanical Garden: Sip, savor, and stroll through local wine & cider. idahowines.org

11-14 — EMMET CHERRY FESTIVAL

Emmett City Park: Festival events, concerts and carnival. emmettcherryfestival.com

11 — NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERT SERIES

Sunset Park, 5:30 PM: Bring a blanket and enjoy the summer vibes! cityofboise.org

11-14 — EAGLE RODEO

Eagle Rodeo Grounds: Cowboy action and an after parties. eaglerodeo.com

13 — ROARS AND POURS

Zoo Boise, 6 PM: Explore the zoo just for adults (21+)! zooboise.org

14 — ALIVE AFTER FIVE

The Grove Plaza: Free concert series every Wednesday. downtownboise.org

14 — IDAHO FAMILY SUMMER PALOOZA

Expo Idaho, 10 AM: A day of fun, shows, and activities iblevents.com

14 — IDAHO PET EXPO

Expo Idaho, 10 AM: Vendors and furry friends. iblevents.com

14 — SAW THE MUSICAL

Egyptian Theatre, 7:30 PM: A unique theatrical adaptation on the horror franchise. showclix.com

17-21 — SNAKE RIVER STAMPEDE

Ford Idaho Center: Bull riding, barrel racing, and more. snakeriverstampede.com

17 — PETER FRAMPTON –LET’S DO IT AGAIN TOUR

Idaho Central Arena 7:30 PM: Timeless hits and epic solos. idahocentralarena.com

17 — EARTH, WIND & FIRE LIVE

Idaho Botanical Garden, 7 PM: R&B, funk, and soul under the stars. idahobotanicalgarden.org

18-21 — MERIDIAN DAIRY DAYS

Storey Park: A weekend of tradition, fun, and entertainment! dairydays.org

19-22 — SAWTOOTH VALLEY GATHERING

Stanley Idaho: Live performances, camping, workshops. sawtoothvalleygathering.com

20-22 — EL KORAH SHRINE CIRCUS

Expo Idaho: Live music, acrobatics, and other entertainment. expoidaho.com

21 — BOISE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Expo Idaho 10 AM: Food trucks, carnival rides, and 12+ hours of music. boisemusicfestival.com

23-27 — PARK EXPLORERS CAMP

Julia Davis Park: Visit a different cultural spot each day. dcidaho.org

24 — POST MALONE & JELLY ROLL

Albertsons Stadium: Two chart-topping artists. boisestadium.org

26 — CODY JINKS

Ford Idaho Center, 7 PM: The Hippies and Cowboys Tour. fordidahocenter.com

27 — ZOO’S LINE IS IT ANYWAY?

Zoo Boise, 6 PM: Hilarious improv comedy meets wildlife. zooboise.org

27-28 — EAGLE FUN DAYS

Family activities, live music, local vendors, a car show, parade, food trucks. cityofeagle.org

28-29 — FINE ART FESTIVAL

Kleiner Park: 150 artists, live music, food, and family fun! meridianfineartfestival.com

28 — WILD WEST BREWFEST

Indian Creek Plaza, 5 PM: 40+ breweries, 12 tastings, live music, and beard contest! indiancreekplaza.com

Boise Being Nice

Celebrating kindness in motion—from light-post banners to flower giveaways, Boise Nice reminds us that small actions create lasting impact

ARTICLE BY STAFF WRITER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

When Rourke O’Brien moved from Seattle to Boise, something about the city struck him right away. People waved from their cars. Strangers smiled and held doors. Conversations in coffee shops and grocery store lines turned into genuine exchanges. Boise felt different—more intentional, more grounded, more kind.

That sense of quiet community spirit stayed with him. It wasn’t long before Rourke discovered a Facebook page started by longtime Boise resident Julia Grant, focused on the message of “keeping Boise nice.” Inspired, he reached out. Together, they transformed the idea into Boise Nice™, a 10-year, 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission: to identify, preserve, and enhance the things that make Boise so livable and welcoming.

Boise Nice operates without employees. It runs entirely on community energy, volunteer support, and donations. Every dollar goes toward messaging—stickers, banners, and billboards that encourage daily acts of kindness, shared responsibility, and pride of place. “This work has a fun factor,” Rourke says. “But it’s also deeply meaningful. Idahoans care about their neighbors. They want to protect what makes this place feel like home.”

You’ll find Boise Nice at community events all year: YMCA fun runs, SoleKIDS races, Girls on the Run, the City of Boise’s Earth Day Celebration, Savor Idaho, and Girl Scout programs. At every event, the team offers Boise Nice stickers, shares stories, and invites residents to take part in keeping their city kind.

The organization also values collaboration and creativity. Rourke frequently encourages residents to come forward with their own ideas for spreading kindness—whether through schools, workplaces, or neighborhood events. Boise Nice isn’t just about awareness; it’s about inspiring action through community-driven engagement.

A signature initiative is Boise Plogs, which encourages locals to jog, walk, or bike while picking up litter. “You don’t have to run,” Rourke laughs. “You just have to care.”

To get involved, visit boisenice.org or email info@boisenice.org. Be kind.

Things to Know...

1 | The Goal

Boise Nice has been growing for years. Founders Rourke and Julia are on a mission to keep the “nice” part of Boise alive— through everyday kindness, awareness, and shared values.

2 | Banners

With support from Lamar Advertising, 11 digital billboards across the Treasure Valley share rotating “Wave to a stranger—it’s a Boise thing” messages. Also featured on screens at Idaho Central Arena, JUMP, and the Boise Chamber of Commerce.