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LIFESTYLE LETTER

JULY 2021 PUBLISHER

Greg Gewalt | greg.gewalt@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

SUMMER TIME IN MERIDIAN

Kimber Patterson | kimber.patterson@lifestylepubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Jordan Gray | editorial@meridiancitylifestyle.com

JULY IS PRIME TIME FOR ALL OF THE BEST ACTIVITIES SUMMER HAS TO

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

OFFER. From pool parties and backyard barbecues to baseball games and family

Kendall Houlton | kendall.houlton@lifestylepubs.com

vacations, this month reminds us to kick back and have some fun!

AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart

This issue is brimming with great stories — six of the top National Parks to visit, summer reads for kids, and the amazing life of nationally recognized animal expert Corbin Maxey.

L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Be sure to take advantage of all the exciting events happening in Meridian this month. Fourth of July brings us plenty of star-spangled fun in Meridian Downtown, from patriotic parades to awe-inspiring fireworks displays. Speaking of parades, we’ve also included the recent Parade of Homes™ award winners and many residential communities providing inspiration to new and existing homeowners alike.

Shane Plummer, Mechele Duke, Kay Bird, Kendall Houlton CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

David Fish, Samantha Maxey, Brett Cheffings, Aaron Rodriquez

We’re sure you’ll find plenty in this issue and on our digital platform, CityLifestyle. com, to get you in the mood for summer fun! As always, thanks for reading, and we’ll see you around town!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

Greg Gewalt, Publisher

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

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CityLifestyle.com/Meridian ON THE COVER Corbin Maxey & Clyde PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAMANTHA MAXEY 8

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 Meridian Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Meridian areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Meridian Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE JULY 2021

FEATURES 26 Building Innovation Providing the Vision and Design Ideas to Make Your Next Home a Reality

36 Corbin Maxey, Animal Expert Swimming with Alligators is Just Another Day at the Office for This Meridian Native

46 Summer Reading List for Kids Armchair Adventures for the Young at Heart

26 36

48 Lakeshore Reflections Contemplating the Big Picture

48 DEPARTMENTS

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Travel Destination

22 Locally Owned 26 Open House 36 Animal Kingdom 44 Local’s Choice 46 Page Turners 48 Healthy Lifestyle 50 Lifestyle Calendar 54 Inspired By

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Unplug and Be Outside Week Offers Fun in the Sunshine Unplug and Be Outside Week featured introductory classes in arts, sports, and recreation for people of all ages. “Unplug and Be Outside is a reminder that there are lots of options to ease our way back into activity and enjoy the outdoors,” Meridian Parks Recreation Coordinator Renee White said. PHOTOS COURTESY SHELLY HOUSTON, CITY OF MERIDIAN.

1. Soccer drills helped teach kids the thrill of the game. | 2. A little wind didn’t scare away the families who came to Kleiner Park for a disc golf clinic put on by 208 Discs. | 3. Future tennis pros take the court to learn how to work the net. | 4. Youth ambassadors from the Treasure Valley Children’s Theater led participants in a variety of playful and creative acting games. | 5. Disc golf was one of the many activities that made up Unplug and Be Outside Week. | 6. Loaner poles, bait, and helpers helped kids give fishing a try for the first time. | 7. Blind Date with a Book led to some new literary finds for this pair.

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AROUND TOWN Movies are projected onto a 30-foot inflatable screen in a roped-off seating area within the park. Blankets and low-backed chairs are encouraged for front row seating, but regular chairs are permitted on the sides and rear seating areas. The movies begin at dusk, but families are invited to come early and participate in a variety of activities before the movie begins each night. Settlers Park also features built-in activities to encourage play and physical activity, including the Adventure Island Playground with a splash pad, climbing rock, sound garden, and Idaho’s first universally accessible playground area. Parents are discouraged from dropping youth off at the event unsu-

MERIDIAN FIRE ENGINES RESCUE BABY ANIMALS ACROSS TOWN Meridian Fire has been on rescues across Meridian. Engine 34 rescued four kittens from a home's HVAC floor vents. The kittens were taken to a local vet in Meridian, where all were found strong and healthy, and immediately adopted. Engine 35

pervised. Attendees who are loud or disruptive will be asked to leave. Settlers Park is closed outside the borders of the movie night seating area after dark. To view the movie schedule and watch trailers, visit meridiancity.org/movienight.

2021 USA PICKLEBALL PNW REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP COMES TO MERIDIAN

rescued some baby ducks from a sewer, and suc-

On June 24-27 in Settlers Park, the USAPA

cessfully returned them back to their mom. Engine

PACIFIC NORTHWEST NONPROFIT (UPNWN)

33 also rescued baby ducks from a storm drain, an

hosted one of the biggest pickleball tournaments

operation which included the resuscitation of one

in the US, drawing players and spectators from

baby (who went to longer-term care) and the return

across the country. UPNWN represents the four states of Idaho,

of the rest to mom.

Washington, Oregon and Alaska - and makes up the Pacific Northwest Region. This event has been hosted in Oregon for the last five years and was hosted in Boise and Meridian this year. Local partners included with charity partners Treasure Valley YMCA and Meridian Dairy Days; sponsorship partners, the Brighton Corporation, Meridian Dairy Board, Idaho Potato Commission, Meridian Chamber of Commerce, City of Meridian, City of Boise, Meridian Parks & Rec, Boise Park & Rec, with Cecil Andrus Elementary School. Other partner organizations include Therabody (Theragun),

USA

Pickleball,

Selkirk,

HEAD

Penn Pickleball, OneShot Pickleball, Humana MarketPoint, and the Idaho Beef Council.

SPARKLIGHT MOVIE NIGHT RETURNS TO SETTLERS PARK Meridian

Parks

and Recreation

DOWNTOWN PLANS The Meridian Development Corporation (MDC)

recently

is seeking project proposals for the Civic Block on

announced the return of a Meridian favorite,

land owned by MDC and the city of Meridian. MDC

Sparklight Movie Night. The event takes place

is seeking a mixed-use development that achieves

every Friday evening through August 20 in Settlers

iconic status for the city’s quickly changing down-

Park (3245 N. Meridian Road).

town. Info: MeridianDevelopmentCorp.com

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

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Thaank you Th

to the BCA for putting on the 2021 Spring Parade of Homes, as well as all of the out-of-state builders that donated their time to judge the Parade Homes. We want to thank everyone for coming out, it was hands down one of the best parade turnout we have experienced in years, and we hope the public thoroughly enjoyed walking through these exquisite homes. Thank you to all the builders who participated in creating a memorable Parade of Homes for all. Thank you to the BCA for being our communities’ advocate for responsible development and fighting to keep homes affordable.

MIKE LOUIE & JENNIFER HICKEY REALTORS ®

FOUNDERS OF SPOT LIGHT REAL ESTATE

INFO@SPOTLIGHTIDAHO.COM

208-577-7777

TRAVEL DESTINATION

Explore National Parks Across the U.S. 6 TOP NATIONAL PARKS TO VISIT NOW

THE UNITED STATES’ NATIONAL PARKS, WHICH ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR NATURAL WONDERS AND UNMATCHED BEAUTY, ENCOMPASS LANDS THAT HELPED SHAPE THE HISTORY OF THIS COUNTRY AND HOLD CULTURAL VALUE AND SIGNIFICANCE. The national parks invite us to stretch our imaginations—and our legs—and explore the great outdoors. This list of national parks just scratches the surface of the natural wonders to wonderlands to discover, but it includes six of the most stunning national parks in the United States.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK Rocky Mountain National Park includes majestic mountains, abundant wildlife, incredible hiking trails and so much more. Popular activities include fishing, hiking, riding horses and bikes and enjoying the spectacular views. Wintertime brings cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding. Watching wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, elk, moose and mule deer, is a popular activity as well.

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK Located in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite National Park boasts giant sequoia trees, breathtaking waterfalls, vast meadows and more. The park is home to unique rock formations like El Capitan, Half Dome and Glacier Point. Gaze in awe at Yosemite’s thousands of waterfalls, including Yosemite Falls, Ribbon Fall and Wapama Falls.

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK Yellowstone’s 2.2 million acres include colorful hot springs, awe-inspiring waterfalls, fascinating mudpots, explosive geysers, diverse wildlife and more. It is home to more hot springs and geysers than anywhere else on Earth. The oldest and largest herd of bison in the country lives at Yellowstone, as well as elk, wolves and grizzly bears.

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is home to the world’s largest concentration of hoodoos on Earth. With its fascinating landscape composed of hoodoos, horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters and whimsical limestone rock formations, a visit to Bryce Canyon is often likened to a visit to another planet. This stunning landscape, formed by wind, water and snow, draws hikers, rock climbers, photographers, stargazers and cross-country skiers.

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK Glacier National Park is located on the border of Canada and the United States and is often referred to as the “Crown of the Continent.” Visitors will find more than 700 glacial lakes and many hiking trails, ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous. Going-to-the-Sun Road, known as one of the most spectacular scenic drives in the country, is a paved, two-lane highway that divides the park into east and west regions.

6. ZION NATIONAL PARK Zion National Park’s colorful sandstone cliffs, lush plateaus covered in pine and junipers, narrow canyons, the Virgin River, plus seeps, springs and waterfalls are just some of the scenic wonders here. One of Zion’s most popular hikes is known as the Narrows, the slimmest section of Zion Canyon. Other popular attractions include the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, Angels Landing, Observation Point and Canyon Overlook Trail. CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

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ARTICLE BILL RAUER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

E XC E L L E N T HOMES

Asbury Homes, winner of numerous Parade of Homes awards - Hope Springs Community, Star Idaho

THE BUILDING CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHWESTERN IDAHO (BCASWI) RECENTLY WRAPPED UP IT’S 2021 SPRING BOISE PARADE OF HOMES™. Parade of Homes™ is a showcase of home designs in new construction by some of the associations’ builders. Providing annual spring and fall tours of homes has been a tradition since 1956! It was wonderful to allow open houses at each of the locations in the traditional open house manner with safety protocols in place at each home, as well as the ability to continue access via 3D virtual tours. The event was successful for the participating builders and those who support them, albeit differently than in past parades. Instead of limiting the event to 40 homes, only a bit more than half that number was available, and very few were offered

The BCASWI is a local association and our 400 members are

for sale. The definition of success for many builders

also members of the Idaho Building Contractors Association

was being able to complete the homes in time for

(IBCA) as are six other local associations throughout the state.

the parade. As Rod Givens of Alturas Homes and

All of those 1,100 members are among the 150,000 members of

BCASWI President said, “It’s an incredible opportu-

the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Collectively

nity for us to showcase our brand, and it forces us to

we provide advocacy, expertise, and education throughout our

think outside the box by designing a new home for

nationwide network to promote the responsible development of

every show. We appreciate participating in an event

our communities in the pursuit of keeping homeownership as

that is so enjoyable for the community.”

affordable as possible.

Due to labor and material (lumber, plastic, and

With the success of the 2021 Spring Boise Parade of Homes™,

concrete) shortages, builders have had to educate

and as we prepare for the fall event in October, we fondly remem-

their clients regarding the escalating costs and

ber that a “home show” was the genesis of our organization 65

prices. As mentioned in my March article for this

years ago. Showing homebuyers the latest building technology

publication, land ready for residential development

while ensuring homeownership for Americans has always been,

is simply not available due to a lack of infrastruc-

and will continue to be, our focus.

ture. City and county officials are looking at every option to fund this expansion. I’m glad to be part of an association that is working to help them under-

BILL R AUER

stand how important the homebuilding industry is

Executive Officer of the BCASWI.org

to our local, state, and national economy.

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

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208-830-9828 1022 S. Wells Street, Ste 200 Meridian Idaho 83642 CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

OPEN HOUSE

BUILDING

INNOVATION PROVIDING THE VISION AND DESIGN IDEAS TO MAKE YOUR NEXT HOME A REALITY THE BOISE PARADE OF HOMES GIVES ALL ATTENDEES THE VISION, DREAM AND DESIGN IDEAS TO MAKE THEIR NEXT HOME A REALITY. Whether looking for a custom build with extraordinary detail from floor to ceiling, or a starter home full of current trends and designs, the Parade of Homes is the ideal place to be. The Boise Parade of Homes is a twice-annual event showcasing new houses constructed throughout the Treasure Valley - a home tour presented by the local ARTICLE GREG GEWALT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Building Contractors Association of Southwestern Idaho (BCASWI). According to Rod Givens, current BCASWI President, “The Parade of Homes is an incredible opportunity for Alturas Homes to showcase our brand. It also forces us to think outside the box by designing a new home for every show.” One thing is clear - you will discover innovations in homebuilding, energy efficiency, sustainable architecture, and interior design that will inspire you. To see some of the best houses Treasure Valley has to showcase, preview the winners here and visit BCASWI.org to learn more about these homes and their builders.

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

SUPERIOR CUSTOM HOMES ($900,000 to $975,000) Best Overall Winner - Best Interior Design & Finish - Best Master Suite - The Legacy Development in Eagle is nestled between the Boise metro area and back country recreation. The development itself creates a haven with 39% open space filled with water features and abundant community facilities including three Tennis Courts, a 26-acre 3-Hole Executive Practice Golf Course, and Swimming Facility.

GARDNER HOMES IDAHO ($700,000 to $760,000) Best Overall Winner - Best Decorated - Best Exterior Design - Best Interior Finish & Design - Best Kitchen - BridgeTower West is a new home community in Northwest Meridian. The neighborhood offers a unique combination of the latest home designs, planned convenience, and community connectivity while retaining an “old world” charm. You will find brick-lined streets and a vast array of amenities, convenience and new growth surrounded by schools, retail, services, parks and recreational activities.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

MK CUSTOM HOMES ($1,000,000

to $1,500,000) Best Overall Winner - Best Decorated - Best Exterior Design - Best Interior Design & Finish - Best Master Suite - Located in Three Corners Ranch in Meridian, this is a community of high quality detached single-family homes with comparable amenities and appointments. House styles and designs will include one and two-story residences. Siding and roofing materials will vary as will the overall home styles and color schemes. Individual homes will range in square footage depending on the lot size and home buyers needs. Along with the larger residential homesites, Three Corners Ranch has 3.11 acres of open space comprised of park strips, pocket parks, pedestrian pathways, and a large common neighborhood park.

BILTM0RE CO. ($1,000,000 to $1,500,000)

Best Kitchen - The new home community of Eagle Mountain Estates is located at the quiet end of Eagle with easy access to Hwy 16, State Street, and Eagle Road. This community has an incredible amount to offer. It is located within 15 minutes of Eagle Island State Park, and conveniently close to Fred Meyer and the new Meridian Costco (coming soon).

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

ALTURAS HOMES ($900,000 to $975,000)

Best Kitchen (TIE) - Homestead community offers homes in Eagle with an opportunity for growing families to be close to many wonderful natural amenities, including bike and walking trails in the foothills. This community provides many amenities, including a swimming pool, neighborhood park and playground, along with Eagle Island State Park on the Boise River, located minutes away.

TRESIDIO HOMES ($610,000 to $675,000) Best Overall Winner - Best Decorated - Best Exterior Design - Best Interior Design & Finish - Best Master Suite - Best Kitchen - At Riverstone in Eagle, you’ll find a distinguished and thoughtfully designed community providing contemporary living with a scenic beachfront park, modern clubhouse facilities and community event area. Riverstone offers the security of a gated community, combined with the relaxed vibe of a mountain resort.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

TOLL BROTHERS ($350,000 and Under) Best Overall Winner - The Oaks North is situated in the desirable northwest Meridian corridor, and the single-family community provides convenient proximity to I-84 and

Boise’s downtown. Amenities include a community pool and pickleball courts, along with walking paths and open green spaces that encourage an active lifestyle.

PARADIGM CONSTRUCTION ($900,000 to $975,000) Best Exterior Design - Best Kitchen (TIE) - Williamson River Ranch in Eagle is set back from Eagle Road on the west end of the Rivers End subdivision. Large waterfront lots border multiple man-made private ponds. The north side of the community borders the Boise River, and meandering walking paths provide access to the river and Boise Greenbelt.

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

BUSALACCHI CUSTOM HOMES ($700,000 to $760,000) Best Master Suite - Timberline Estates is a community of distinction, beauty, and care nestled in beautiful Meridian.

SOLITUDE HOMES ($500,000 to $599,000) Best Overall Winner - Best Decorated (TIE) - Best Exterior Design (TIE) - Best Interior Design & Finish - Best Master Suite - Best Kitchen. - The Legacy Development in Eagle is a community featuring recreational activities including three Tennis Courts, a 26-acre 3-Hole Executive Practice Golf Course, as well as a Swimming Facility. Thirty nine percent of the community is dedicated open space filled with water features, nestled between the Boise metro area and back country recreation of the Treasure Valley foothills.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

ASBURY HOMES ($400,000 to $499,000) Best Decorated - Best Exterior Design Best Interior Design & Finish (TIE) - Best Master Suite (TIE) - The Hope Springs community in Star is a development capturing the essence of the tranquil Star farmland with a “farm to family” hometown neighborhood feel. With community garden areas, farmhouse inspired clubhouse with pool, walking paths along a meandering creek, extensive common areas, tree lined streets, boulevard entry featuring hanging baskets from decorative street lights, and architectural individuality in every home creating diverse streetscapes.

BERKELEY BUILDING CO. ($500,000 to $599,000) Best Decorated (TIE) - Riverstone in Eagle offers the security of a gated community, combined with the relaxed vibe of a mountain resort. In this thoughtfully designed community buyers find contemporary living with a scenic beachfront park, modern clubhouse facilities and community event area.

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

RIVERWOOD HOMES ($400,000 – $499,000) Best Kitchen - At Patagonia in Kuna they put together a thoughtful community plan with features that will enhance your life complete with fiber optics, a community pool, walking trails, parks, and ample green space. A team of builders offer homes with great curb appeal, high quality features, style and design.

BRIGHTON HOMES ($500,000 to $599,000) Best Exterior Design (TIE) - Cartwright Ranch at Hidden Springs is a community in Northwest Boise offering spacious homes nestled in the scenic foothills above Boise. The community offers a picturesque rural environment with ample open space; trails held in conservation and dedicated to the residents use; and recreational, educational, and retail amenities all within the Hidden Springs community.

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Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

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ANIMAL KINGDOM

CORBIN animal

MAXEY expert

SWIMMING WITH ALLIGATORS IS JUST ANOTHER DAY AT THE OFFICE FOR THIS MERIDIAN NATIVE

ARTICLE KIMBER PATTERSON PHOTOGRAPHY SAMANTHA MAXEY & BRETT CHEFFINGS CONTINUED >

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

ANIMAL KINGDOM (CONTINUED)

IDAHO NATIVE AND RESIDENT CORBIN MAXEY

and I built the 1,000 sq. ft. building which includes a

IS A NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED ANIMAL EXPERT,

recessed pool for our two rescued American Alligators.

BIOLOGIST,

PERSONALITY

Their habitat has a sandy beach, palms, and ferns. We’re

APPEARANCES

working on “alligator doors” leading outside where they

ON THE TODAY SHOW, LATE NIGHT WITH SETH

can bask in the Idaho sunshine. We offer private tours

MEYERS, AND MANY MORE. At the age of 12, he

of the Alligator House along with our other animal facil-

founded Cyprus Hill Reptile Reserve in Meridian, a

ities, and all proceeds go back to our animals.

NOTABLE

AND FOR

TELEVISION NUMEROUS

non-profit dedicated to reptile rescue, conservation, and education. Corbin has found homes for hundreds

YOU RECENTLY HAD TO DO SOME REPAIRS IN

of homeless, abused, and neglected reptiles and

YOUR ALLIGATOR POOL. HOW DID YOU DIS-

amphibians. His passion for all animals influenced his

TRACT SONI, YOUR 10’ ALLIGATOR?

decision to commit his life to them.

Like I said, every day of my job is definitely different!

Maxey will be performing every Wednesday evening

We distracted him using a frozen thawed turkey. While

in July at The Village, and things are about to get WILD!

he was busy holding onto the turkey at the opposite end

From alligators to anacondas, Maxey will share his

of the pool, we jumped in to do the repairs. You can

knowledge and amazing animals. We asked our local

watch a video of this on my YouTube channel!

hero how he stays busy when he’s not performing. HOW MANY POUNDS OF POULTRY DO YOU GO WHAT’S A TYPICAL DAY LIKE WHEN YOU HAVE A SNAKE AS A CO-WORKER?

THROUGH PER MONTH? Too many to count! We go through several whole

Every day is different and that’s why I love working

chickens, thighs, and quarters weekly to feed our

with animals. I’ll start by feeding our herbivorous iguana,

rescued alligators, snapping turtles, and Savannah

skinks, box turtles, and tortoises. Depending on the

Monitor Lizard. They also eat beef, pork, fish, and ven-

weather, I move animals to their outdoor habitats to

ison. We have recently received meat donations which

enjoy the sunshine. The rest of my day is spent cleaning

has helped tremendously.

up animal poo, draining pools, cleaning filters, changing substrate, expanding our emu yard, and building a new

HOW OLD IS THE OLDEST ANIMAL YOU CARE FOR?

outdoor alligator area - the list goes on! In between I film

That would be Tinkerbelle, my 50-year-old, 85

content for all my social media platforms. I typically go

pound female Sulcata Tortoise. She was found

live daily in the Alligator House for my TikTok audience.

crossing rush-hour traffic in Nampa over a decade ago. I also care for her 150 pound boyfriend Tank

WHAT’S AN ALLIGATOR HOUSE? CAN I VISIT? Our Alligator House is truly one-of-a-kind! My dad

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

and their kids, Littlefoot and Hank. They’ll all live to be over 100 years old.

CONTINUED >

The Alligator House

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

ANIMAL KINGDOM (CONTINUED)

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

YOU’VE BEEN ON MANY NATIONAL TALK SHOWS OVER THE YEARS. DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MOMENT? I think that would be my first time appearing on national TV. I was 14-years-old, my Albino Python was wrapped around me, and I was sitting next to Jay Leno on The Tonight Show. I looked past the cameras and lights out into the studio audience and realized I had found my calling. I knew in that moment I wanted to pursue a career with animals and educate people about them. YOU FOUNDED CYPRUS HILL REPTILE RESERVE IN MERIDIAN WHEN YOU WERE ONLY 12 YEARS OLD. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO DEDICATE YOURSELF TO REPTILE RESCUE, CONSERVATION, AND EDUCATION? I’ve always had a passion for animals! At 12 years old, my family went to a local pet store and overheard a man looking for a home for his Ball Python. The pet store manager said they had no room. I asked my dad if we could take the python and that’s how it all began. You want to know the crazy thing? I still have “Reggie,” - that rescued Ball Python - to this day! He is well into his late 20’s, and may be the world’s oldest living Ball Python. He really started it all! HOW CAN I HELP THESE AMAZING ANIMALS WITHOUT HAVING ONE IN MY LIVING ROOM? People can help by donating to our non-profit, Cyprus Hill Animal Reserve. We are currently raising funds to finish the outdoor yard for our alligators, and install an electric heater for the winter months. We’re also looking into solar panels for green energy. WHAT SHOULD THE AUDIENCE EXPECT AT THE WILD WEDNESDAYS SHOWS AT THE VILLAGE?

Photo Credit: Brett Cheffings

Audiences can expect exciting, entertaining, and educational shows at the Village this summer, and no two shows will be the same. I’ll be teaming up with local animal experts and their animal ambassadors to showcase some of the most amazing animals we have living right here in the Treasure Valley. From an owl to an anaconda, these shows will be like nothing I’ve ever done before in front of a live audience. WHO DO YOU ADMIRE AND WHY? The Irwin family. Terri, Bindi, and Robert have continued Steve Irwin’s legacy with their wildlife rescue, conservation, and education, and it is truly admirable. They are such amazing voices for wildlife and conservation around the world. CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

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three essential summer tips to keep your skin fighting

sun damage during the summer months. Warm weather

those harmful rays, free radicals, pollution and congestion.

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Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

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CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

PAGE TURNERS

summer reading list for kids ARMCHAIR ADVENTURES FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

Best Worst Summer

by Elizabeth Eulberg This is the worst summer ever for WINTER READING GETS A LOT OF LOVE

Peyton. Her family just moved. She’s

WHEN A CUP OF COCOA AND A GOOD

missing her best friend. She’s lonely.

BOOK IS ON EVERYBODY’S INSTAGRAM

She’s bored. Until . . . she finds a mys-

IN JANUARY. But summer reading is just

terious box buried in her backyard.

as relaxing and enjoyable. When the days are hot and the afternoons are lazy, it’s the perfect time to indulge in a good adventure without breaking a sweat. In a survey conducted by Scholastic, children who are allowed to choose their own book are three times more likely to be a frequent reader. These are astounding numbers and show the huge impact of allowing your child to browse and pick the books they would like to read. Rebecca Leber-Gottberg of Rediscovered

Elephant in the Room

by Holly Goldberg Sloan

Books in Boise and Caldwell shared some

Sixth-grader Sila welcomes a very

popular choices for your child’s reading list.

large distraction in her life when she

“Families are making reading at home or on

helps a surprising new friend rescue a

vacation a social act,” she says. “Parents

circus elephant. Sweet and charming!

establish a time during the day when all members of the family gather to read on their own, or take turns reading the same book aloud. It’s a great way to connect.” Reading for fun keeps kids entertained and interested, and they will be more engrossed in a book they choose themselves rather than material that is forced on them. Allowing them to explore is one of the

Wilderlore: The Accidental Apprentice

greatest joys of summertime—right up there

by Amanda Foody

with running in the sprinklers.

A boy who accidentally bonds

Rediscovered Books, 180 N. 8th Street,

with a magical Beast must set off on an adventure in the mysteri-

Boise, ID

ous Woods in this middle grade fantasy debut--perfect for fans of ARTICLE KIMBER PATTERSON PHOTOGRAPHY REDISCOVERED BOOKS, BOISE

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

Nevermoor and How to Train Your Dragon. await him.

Amazing

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLE The Boise Bubble Podcast

ARTICLE SHANE PLUMMER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Lakeshore Reflections CONTEMPLATING THE BIG PICTURE

PURPOSE AND MISSION Gentlemen, consider these questions: What does it mean to be a man? A good man? A successful man? Whether or not you think these questions are important is irrelevant - they’re somewhere in our head, either screaming in the foreground or lurking quietly, patiently in the background. Purpose and mission are inherent needs of men; if we don’t have them, we will consciously or unconsciously seek to satisfy them, either productively or destructively. Perhaps the “mid-life crisis” is the manifestation of either ignoring these fundamental questions or ineffectively trying to answer them. As a group, we’re notoriously hesitant to talk openly about these things, and even more so to share our failures or doubts along the way. If we hope to be successful, our chances will improve if we seek out allies within our ranks, overcome our hesitance to be open and vulnerable, and add effective conversation tools to our skillset. We may have better results if we look at these things as strengths rather than weaknesses. Our quality of life, and that of those we care about, depends on our ability to navigate the quest for

details

answers productively. Let’s unite in the pursuit of our

Shane Plummer and his wife, Natalie,

common goal.

co-host The Boise Bubble Podcast. You can also find them on Instagram @theboisebubble and @hellomeridian.

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

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JULY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

STINKER STORES FIRECRACKER 50

WILD WEDNESDAYS WITH ANIMAL EXPERT CORBIN MAXEY

SUMMER COSPLAY GATHERING 2021

The Village at Meridian

N. Records Avenue

professional racing classes at the

Join animal expert Corbin Maxey

This free outdoor community event is for

Meridian Speedway. Tickets are $15

for alligator and anaconda night.

fans of all ages to celebrate your favor-

for adults and $7 for kids 7-11. Visit

Bonus guests include a baby Aldabra

ite fandoms. Presented by Gem State

meridianspeedway.com for tickets.

tortoise and a giant bird-eating

Comic Con, the event will feature a photo

spider. Reservations are required.

booth, a cosplay contest, and more!

Meridian Speedway

Check out the sprint cars and more

Visit thevillageatmeridian.com to

SPARKLIGHT MOVIE NIGHT IN MERIDIAN

Settle in for a movie at Settlers! The

MERIDIAN ANTI-DRUG COALITION (MADC) MEETING

Settlers Park, 3545 N. Meridian Road

movie starts at dusk, but families are

reserve your spot.

29 GREAT GARDEN ESCAPE: DAMIEN JURADO WITH NICK DELFFS Idaho Botanical Garden

The Idaho Botanical Garden has part-

Meridian Police Department, 1401 E.

nered with the folks at Duck Club to

in a variety of activities before the

Watertower Street

bring you another amazing season of

movie begins.

Everyone is welcome at the MADC

Great Garden Escape! Bring your blan-

monthly meetings. Join to learn about

ket and folding chair to sit and enjoy

the coalition and how it's working to

music in the oasis of the Meditation

strengthen the community through

Garden. IdahoBotanicalGarden.org.

EAGLE FUN DAYS

meeting minutes or other related

invited to come early and participate

Heritage Park, Eagle

substance abuse prevention. To view information, visit meridianmadc.org.

Eagle Fun Days is back to celebrate the City of Eagle's 50th Anniversary. Events include a Family Fun Night, fireworks, fun run, pancake breakfast, live music, a car show, cornhole tournament, Wet

AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE

WINE SAFARI

American Red Cross will be at the library

Meridian Library, 1326 W. Cherry Lane

Help save lives by donating blood. The

Zoo Boise

from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Walk-ins are

"Eagle Through the Decades." For more

Enjoy tastes of wine from around the

welcome and you may call 1-800-RED

information, visit cityofeagle.org/498/

world while experiencing VIP animal

CROSS for an update on availability.

Eagle-Fun-Days.

talks and experiences. Light appetiz-

You can also register in advance at

ers will be provided. Guests will be

redcrossblood.org.

'n' Wild Parade, and more! The theme is

split into groups of 10 and recom-

CHRISTMAS IN JULY FAIR

first 30 people. Info: ZooBoise.org.

mended health precautions will be in place. This 21+ event is limited to the

Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park, 1900 N. Records Avenue

Don't miss this merry event! Get an early start on your holiday shopping with handcrafted items and mer-

19 BOISE HAWKS VS. GREAT FALLS

30 THE VILLAGE MARKETPLACE, AN OPEN-AIR BAZAAR The Village at Meridian

This fun event consists of socially distanced booth locations in the streets

Memorial Stadium, 5600 N. Glenwood

surrounding Fountain Square. You never

and small businesses. Visit Santa

Street, Garden City

know what you will see while you browse

between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Look

Head out to the ballgame as the

amongst the vendors. Keep your eyes

forward to food trucks, kid-friendly

Boise Hawks take on Great Falls.

out for acoustic performers, costumed

activities, vendors, and more.

Tickets: milb.com/boise.

characters, stilt walkers, and more.

chandise provided by local crafters

Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park, 1900

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

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Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

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INSPIRED BY

I n s pi r e d by S u cc e s s

ARTICLE KENDALL HOULTON

PHOTOGRAPHY LINDSEY BRYANT

Janet Russell

CO-FOUNDER & CO-OWNER/OPERATOR OF ROCKET EXPRESS CAR WASH WHAT ARE THE MOST CRITICAL SKILLS YOU BRING TO YOUR WORK? I’m collaborative in my approach to solving most business challenges and complicated problems. We’re not in business to be in business – we’re in business to make profits – so I collaborate with my key employees to gather facts, opinions, ideas, and to perform basic cost/benefit analysis on endless decisions. Collaboration refines ideas in ways I couldn’t do alone, and in return, employees feel empowered knowing they made a direct contribution to growing and improving the company. HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS, BOTH PERSONALLY AND PROFESSIONALLY? When I inspire young people to recognize how much they can accomplish if they persevere and seek excellence in all they do. I give praise and encouragement of their skills, talents, and contributions. Personal success is “remembering the important things.” Work will always be there, so when I act on what is really important to me or to my family, I’m satisfied that I did the right thing. OUTSIDE OF WORK, WHAT SKILLS AND TALENTS DO YOU HAVE THAT MIGHT SURPRISE PEOPLE? My hiking excursions now include bird watching and identification. I also play the ukulele, love ballroom dancing with music from the big band era, and amateur photography.

+ COLLABORATIVE + EMPOWERING

WHAT ARE SOME CAUSES YOU CARE ABOUT? I support a variety of non-profits through a monthly donation to my church, which provides funds to organizations addressing hunger, domestic violence, housing for needy, clothes for young women, and many individual family needs, as well.

+ INSPIRING

WHO DO YOU ADMIRE AND WHY?

+ FAITH

gence, intellect, self-control, and political achievements internation-

Photo Credit: Lindsey Bryant 54

Meridian Lifestyle | July 2021

I really admire Condoleezza Rice because of her amazing intellially and domestically! Not to mention her higher education, which she clearly applies to all she achieves. She is an absolute superstar, and I’m still hoping she might one day run for U.S. President.