Life + Culture

Romancing the real

Escaping the world of on-line dating and meeting real people in real places Article by Martha Channer | Photography by Provided It may be time to get creative. You have tried meeting people from dating sites, Facebook groups, and a host of other on-line meet and greets, but still no joy. What is missing? Relationships are built gradually; they require trust and time. So, how can you meet someone with the right fundamental simpatico and build something special on a solid foundation? You may...

Life + Culture

We Powered

The Hill in Meridan - partnerships, community, and wellness Article and Photography by Jana Kemp Years in the making, the Tomlinson South Meridian YMCA, known as The Hill, opened in 2018. The Hill was the first YMCA in the United States to build a facility with so many partners: The Treasure Valley Family YMCA, the West Ada School District, St Luke’s Health System, the City of Meridian Parks and Recreation Department, and the Meridian Library District all work together on the 22.5 acre Hill...

Food + Beverage

Pioneering Idaho Wines

Hells Canyon Winery—an Idaho pioneer nestled in the Snake River Valley—a hidden gem celebrating great wine, family tradition, and a deep connection to the land. Article by Tammy De Weerd, Spoken Wines | Photography by Tammy De Weerd In the heart of southwest Idaho’s rugged beauty lies Hells Canyon Winery, one of the state’s oldest wineries. A true pioneer of the Pacific Northwest wine scene, they have crafted wines for over 40 years that embody Idaho’s unique terroir and pioneering spirit...

Food + Beverage

Caffeina Coffee Roasting Company

A Family-Owned Business with Heart and Passion Article by Renee Van Ausdle | Photography by Provided Caffeina Coffee Roasting Company was founded in April 2018, but the roots of the company dig deeper. The story begins with Lyndsey Hopkins, who fell in love with roasting coffee during her time in college. “Through college, I worked for a local coffee roaster, and when I was nearing graduation, I found myself dreading the thought of quitting my job at the coffee shop,” Hopkins said. “I called...

Travel

Snow Globe Stanley

A Local Hot Spot for a Winter Wonderland Idaho Getaway Article and Photography by Ashley Loeb Nestled between the towering White Cloud and Sawtooth Mountain ranges, Stanley transforms from bustling summer haven to tranquil winter snow globe as the towering peaks adorn their frosty white gowns. While Stanley has held the title of coldest spot in the continental US thanks to historical temps below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, there are also plenty of milder winter days that make Stanley an ideal...

Arts + Culture

Meridian + Valley Events

FEBRUARY 2025 Article and Photography by 1  — Winterfest Heritage Social, 2 PM: Perfect for families and music lovers of all ages. idahobluegrassassociation.org 1  — Fly Fishing Expo Expo Idaho, 9 AM: This year's honor fly is the Dunt Proper.  idahoflyfishingexpo.com 2 — Paint with Penguins Zoo Boise, 3:30 PM: Ever wondered how penguins paint? zooboiseorg 2 — Retrospective First Presbyterian Church,10:30 AM: 25 years of Choral Music. facebook.com 3-15 — Ice Skating Ribbon &...

Life + Culture

Idaho celebrates a snowy milestone

100 years ago, Idaho's first ski area took shape as Blackwell's Jump during the inaugural McCall Winter Carnival Article by Staff Writer Idaho’s mountains are blanketed in snow, and communities across the state are embracing winter traditions that have spanned generations. One of the most beloved is the McCall Winter Carnival, returning February 21-23, 2025, to celebrate the magic of Idaho winters. While today’s Carnival is known for its snow sculptures, parades, and festive spirit, its roots...

Arts + Culture

Valentine’s at Home

Celebrate love with sweet treats, heartfelt crafts, cozy dinners, and timeless traditions this Valentine’s Day Article by Staff Writer | Photography by Janie Jones Create lasting memories this Valentine's Day at home with traditions new and old.  Sweet Treat Table Surprise your children with a sweet treat table. Keep it simple with a few favorite snacks and candies, or for a more extravagant display, use fresh flowers and create a handmade centerpiece. To achieve this look...

Life + Culture

Gem State Leaders

Celebrating Idaho’s dedicated public servants shaping communities and preserving the state’s cherished values and traditions Article by Chelsea Chambers | Photography by Provided There’s no greater honor than serving your community, and Idaho is home to many exceptional leaders who have dedicated their lives to public service. From preserving our natural resources to ensuring public safety and protecting our quality of life, these individuals embody the values that make the Gem State a...

Arts + Culture

A New Home

Murdock Grant Jumpstarts Work on LED Home Article by Jordan Gray | Photography by Michelle L. Bliss Having a space of your own is a dream for many, and for performance group LED, that dream is now coming true. Thanks to a generous $200,000 grant from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, LED has secured a 20-year lease on a historic 6,658-square-foot building in Garden City (3300 W. Chinden Boulevard). This new venue will feature telescopic seating for 150 guests and will provide the perfect...