Life + Culture

Our State Horse

Idaho’s iconic Appaloosa honors Native heritage, enduring strength, and a legacy rooted in Nez Perce history Article by Kimberly Cornelison | Photography by Historical Society + Appaloosa Club Not every state in the U.S. can boast that they have a designated state horse. Having a state horse honors the animal’s cultural significance within that territory. Idaho’s state horse, the Appaloosa, is more than just a symbol of the state’s equine heritage—it represents deep historical ties that date...

Food + Beverage

Policy, Passion, and Cabernet

From Idaho lawmaker to Cabernet connoisseur, a legacy cultivated thoughtfully Article by Tammy de Weerd For Skip Smyser, a gentleman’s life isn’t only built in courtrooms or Capitol chambers—it’s also found in the quiet complexity of a good Cabernet. A former Idaho legislator, respected lobbyist, and lifelong Idahoan, Smyser is known for helping shape state policy. But his lesser-known legacy is just as rich: championing Idaho’s wine laws and cultivating a lasting family passion for wine. ...

Arts + Culture

Meridian Fine Art Festival Returns with Handmade Wonders

A juried outdoor celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, community spirit, and family fun at Kleiner Park Article by Staff Writer Treasure Valley residents can look forward to another vibrant celebration of creativity and community as the second annual  Meridian Fine Art Festival  returns to Kleiner Park on June 28 and 29. Following the success of its debut, this juried outdoor event will feature 150 talented artists and craftsmen, the majority of whom are local, many from Meridian as well...

Arts + Culture

Coming Home to Guitars

Acoustics, electric, amplification, demo rooms, and accessories are vibrant parts of Boise's music scene Article by Jana Kemp | Photography by Phil White + Provided 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...

Fitness

A Day Spent Outdoors

From rivers to ridgelines, Nick Sabin makes the wilderness his workplace—and Idaho his playground Article by Chelsea Chambers | Photography by Nick and Bri Sabin "Nature is not a place to visit, it is home." –Gary Snyder In our digital days spent scrolling wildly from one thing to the next, from one screen to another, it’s easy to forget our roots. For many, the distance feels wider than others and, for some, they choose to live their lives outdoors, working in nature no matter the job. ...

Life + Culture

Meridian + Valley Events

JUNE 2025 Article and Photography by 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...

Fitness

Sculpting History

Master Craftsman Benjamin Victor Brings Form to Historical and Fantastic Figures Article by Jordan Gray | Photography by Benjamin Victor Studios With a deft twist of his hand, Benjamin Victor can bring a twinkle to someone's eye, a gentle curve to their hand, or a smile to their face.   The Boise sculptor is the only living artist with four works in the National Statuary Hall Collection in Washington, D.C., showcasing Sarah Winnemucca (Nevada), Norman Borlaug (Iowa), Standing Bear (Nebraska)...

Life + Culture

Meet the Men Who Build, Lead, Create, and Inspire

From entrepreneurs to educators, these men are making moves, shaping lives, and showing what commitment looks like in real time Photography by Phil White, 8th Street Studio This month, we turn our attention to the men shaping the Treasure Valley not with noise, but with purpose. These are builders, mentors, visionaries, and doers—men who rise early, stay late, and show up when it matters most. They come from different industries and backgrounds, but they share a common thread: they lean in...

Life + Culture

Women Leading with Heart and Vision

Celebrating women in the Treasure Valley who are redefining leadership, inspiring change, and building a bold, inclusive future Article by Staff Writer | Photography by Phil White, 8th Street Studio This May, we turn our attention to the women not just keeping pace—but setting it. Across the Treasure Valley and Idaho, women are expanding what leadership, entrepreneurship, and impact look like. They’re building with heart, leading with purpose, and navigating challenges with creativity...

Food + Beverage

From India to Avani: Shashi’s Winemaking Journey

A biodynamic vineyard, a nurturing winemaker, and wines deeply rooted in nature Article and Photography by Tammy de Weerd Our first visit to Avani Wines wasn’t planned—it was serendipity. The small, biodynamic vineyard in Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula was closed the day we arrived, yet Shashi and Devendra Singh welcomed us in, opening their tasting room and sharing their wines and beautiful story. That day, a kinship was formed. Fast forward eight years when we returned, they greeted us...