Meridian, ID June 2023

The First Federal Foundation is committed to supporting local efforts that enhance the wellbeing and quality of life of the people who live and work in our communities.

Twice a year, the Foundation accepts applications and awards grants to fund local non-profits. Since 2003, the First Federal Foundation has awarded more than $1.3 million to organizations serving our communities.

Often each of these grants will touch the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of people through the years.

Summer 2023 applications are being accepted until June 30.

For more information or to submit your application visit BankFirstFed.com/foundation.

Celebrating the Men in Our Lives

Father’s Day is just around the corner, and we at Meridian Lifestyle are excited to celebrate the special men in our lives! This year, we’re bringing you a special men’s issue that is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the important role that fathers play in our lives.

In this special men’s issue, we turn our focus to some of the gentlemen who serve as the backbone of our community. We have profiled inspirational male leaders who are making a difference in their communities, just like the women we featured in our May issue. We want to highlight the important contributions of these men and thank them for all that they do.

We also have an inspiring feature on the shifting reputation of golf. Once thought of as a “stuffy” sport, golf has become more inclusive and accessible to a wider audience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s something for everyone on the golf course.

Finally, we are excited to bring you a piece on a local teacher who is bringing a fun afternoon to store shelves. And for those looking for some travel inspiration, we’ve got you covered too. Take an early flight, and you could be dining on the Mexican Riviera Maya’s Caribbean shores by dinnertime. It’s the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway.

As we approach Father’s Day, let’s take the time to celebrate the importance of fathers and father figures in our lives. And let’s also celebrate the amazing men in our community who are making a difference every day.

Thank you for reading, and we wish you all a happy Father’s Day!

June 2023

PUBLISHER

Greg Gewalt | greg.gewalt@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Jordan Gray | editorial@meridiancitylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ashley Loeb, Stephen Singson, Kurt Orzeck, Gerald Adamson, Stacy Conde

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Gerald Adamson, Ashley Loeb, Stacy Conde

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 Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

GREG

If you are new to the industry or a seasoned real estate agent, a firsttime homebuyer, or a property owner looking to sell, our advisors at Engel & Voelkers are dedicated to providing you with the luxury service you should expect.

During the Grand Opening you will have the opportunity to network with other industry professionals, tour our stunning new office, and enjoy complimentary refreshments and appetizers.

Don’t miss out on this exciting event! Come celebrate with us and discover how our business can help you achieve your real estate dreams. 401 South 8th Street Boise, Idaho 83702 (208) 271-7242 | boise.evrealestate.com

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Newsworthy in Idaho

A Roundup of Exciting News from Local Businesses

NAR TO PLANT 215,000 TREES IN 2023

National Association of Realtors® and the National Forest Foundation have joined hands to plant 215,000 trees in Idaho’s national forests, helping to reduce CO2 emissions by 107,500 metric tons over their lifespan. The figure is equivalent to emissions from almost 21,000 homes’ electricity use for one year, over 13 billion smartphones charged, or over 266 million miles driven by an average gasoline-powered passenger vehicle. The project is part of NAR’s partnership with NFF on a 1.575 million tree-planting initiative. The trees will support reforestation efforts in the Boise and Nez PerceClearwater National Forests, aiding recovery from the 2016 Pioneer Fire and the 2021 Johnson Creek Fire. BoiRealtors.com

TASTE THE GOODNESS OF COMEDY

“Stand-Up Six Feet Under” at Voodoo Cellar Boise is a new stand-up comedy night that’s quickly gaining popularity in the Treasure Valley area. The event features 15 of Boise’s best local comedians each week, creating an unforgettable experience for attendees. The unique and intimate atmosphere of the cellar provides

a perfect ambiance for comedy, and a wide selection of beers on tap adds to the enjoyment. The owners, Dave Hermansen and Jimmy Eskelsen, are excited to add stand-up comedy to their weekly lineup, seeing it as an excellent way to create a sense of community. Follow VoodooCellarBoise.com to stay updated on their weekly event schedules.

KLEINER PARK THIS SUMMER

Bri Kleiner Park Live concert series will start a diverse schedule of free concerts on June 9 and will continue on alternating Fridays until August 18, while a free family-friends Sparkle Movie Night will start on June 2 and run until August 11, every evening. The events will be headlined by different bands each time, and guests are encouraged to bring folding chairs, lawn blankets, and snacks. Renee White, the Recreation Coordinator for Meridian, is excited about their new Friday night entertainment lineup. They are alternating outdoor concerts and movie nights in order to appeal to a wider audience. Full schedule at MeridianCity.org/KleinerParkLive and MeridianCity. org/MovieNight .

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@MERIDIANCITYLIFESTYLE.COM | IG: @MERIDIAN.LIFESTYLE

Idaho Reforestation

Messy Table for the Win

How Eric Olsen Brought a Fun Afternoon to Store Shelves

OF ERIC OLSEN + BIG G CREATIVE

Eric Olsen has been playing board games his entire life. And now, with his first game, Glyphics, available at multiple retailers, he’s a designer as well as a player.

“I never really thought of making a board game, so it was as much a surprise to me as it was just about everyone else,” Olsen said. “Although, in hindsight, it seems like a natural thing to have happened.”

Glyphics is the result of an impromptu game in the summer of 2020.

“We were having lunch and there was stuff on the table, and I just rearranged that and made a little Christmas tree. And as soon as I made it, (my kids) guessed what it was. They grabbed this stuff and then they rearranged it. We just started making stuff with the pieces and we’re all just laughing and having fun. And that was really the inspiration for the game. As my one of my good friends said, ‘Messy table for the win.’”

The idea started percolating to make the game with real pieces and cards. Somewhere along the line, Olsen or his son had the idea to try 3-D printing some pieces.

“Instead of having to just use whatever pieces are lying around, we could make our own pieces,” he said. “And from there, we kind of didn’t look back.”

Olsen took his new pieces, paired them with words from old Pictionary cards and online word lists, then sent them out to friends and family.

“That’s what really made it a good game,” he said. “It’s not because I’m super brilliant. It’s because I sent the game out to a whole

bunch of people, and they played it a lot and offered feedback.”

In February 2021, Olsen discussed the next step with his wife: an expensive patent search to confirm there was nothing else like Glyphics around.

“I said, ‘Look, if this comes back negative, I really want to try to make it a game.’ So that was really the point when I decided when I wanted to try to actually put it on store shelves.”

The patent search was negative and the quest was on. Olsen patented and trademarked his game, and started researching self-publishing and game publishers. He also, fortuitously, reached out to Bananagrams, Inc., for advice.

“Believe it or not, the CEO of Bananagrams (Rena Nathanson) got in touch with me and we had a couple of great conversations. She put me in touch with GPI, a large game manufacturer. They wanted to try something new in addition to manufacturing. They wanted to start presenting games to publishers in pitch meetings. And they said, ‘You’re the first outside person that we want to show your game.’

So, it’s kind of a unique, cool situation and they started pitching my game for me.”

Acting as his agent, Olsen said GPI helped his game get picked up by Big G Creative within a month. Then, October 2022 brought the moment Olsen had been waiting for.

“I took my kids and went to Target,” he said. “They had their cameras ready, and we walked in and all of a sudden, there it was. A year and a half to get it there. It just felt really good.

“I never really thought of making a board game, so it was as much a surprise to me as it was just about everyone else. Although, in hindsight, it seems like a natural thing to have happened.”

You know, like not a weight off your shoulders, but kind of like a big, ‘Ah, made it.’ It’s fun to see something that you put that much work into make it all the way.”

Something Olsen said he hadn’t anticipated was the public’s response.

“I’m having friends and family and people I don’t even know tell me how much fun they’re having with their family playing the game. I love playing games with my friends and family, but now there’s people out there playing my game with their friends and their family. And they’re sending me messages like ‘We laugh ‘til we cry’ and ‘We haven’t laughed that hard in years.’ It’s a really good feeling to know your game is going to be a game people take camping or people take up to the cabin or over Christmas when people get together. They’re going to play your game and they’re going to make memories with it.”

While Olsen currently teaches high school math, his passion for game design has only increased. He’s already started his own company: Messy Table Games.

“I never knew I was a game designer,” he said. “It never occurred to me. And after I designed that first game, something clicked. Since then, I’ve designed 10 more games and more games are coming.”

As for Glyphics, Olsen is still playing his own game. With one particular caveat from his family.

“I made all the cards, so I don’t get to guess. I get to be a builder. Like I can make the shapes, but I’m not allowed to guess at my house. By the way, Dad has not memorized every single card. But that’s not why I’m not allowed to guess. My kids say I usually never win my own games. Which is true. But it’s more about hanging out.”

TREEFORT: A CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Capturing the essence of artistic expression at the 11th annual Treefort Music Festival

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY GERALD ADAMSON

As a photographer, I’m driven to capture those rare moments where emotions and energy fuse together to create something extraordinary. The annual Treefort Music Festival is the ideal setting to freeze these enchanting moments in time. This year, a noteworthy addition to the festival was the wedding of Clark Gillepsie and Jenny Hefner at El Kora Shrine, located near the old bus station where artists came together to collaborate on new art and experiences. Treefort has much to offer beyond its captivating musical performances. From Artfort to Filmfort, there is something for everyone to enjoy. @gkadamson

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.

INSPIRATIONAL MEN OF IDAHO

WHAT DRIVES MEN SUCH AS A HIGH-RANKING BANK EXECUTIVE? AN AMBITIOUS SCHOOL PRINCIPAL? A YOUNG FURNITURE STORE OWNER?

Ask someone what makes the Treasure Valley a special place, and you’ll likely get a range of answers — many of them the same. The foothills. The Greenbelt. The river. Some might even cite the neighborliness of the residents or small-town feel despite tremendous growth.

And yet, as with any city that shares the special size that Boise and Meridian do — not too big, not too small — it is the people who keep the City of Trees verdant, lush and so appealing. From high-ranking bank executives like Scott Schlange to local heroes such as Tom Scott to up-and-coming business owners including Chancellor Werner, hard-working residents of every stripe keep the city operational — and, yes, kind too.

After profiling a series of inspirational female leaders for the May issues of Boise Lifestyle and Meridian Lifestyle, we turned our focus to some of the gentlemen who serve as the backbone for the valley — and also serve as inspirational leaders for their peers and future leaders. Here are just a few of the valley’s key players of note.

BY

TOM SCOTT

TOM SCOTT AGENCY

For the past 23 years, Tom Scott has captained the Tom Scott Agency, a shop that helps media companies of all shapes and sizes with their advertising, web design and public relations efforts. But despite that impressive tenure, most Boise residents know Scott as the voice of sports coverage in Boise for KTVB Sports.

“Staying involved with providing sports segments keeps me engaged,” the revered color commentary for Boise State University football said. “My constant task is keeping up with technology and the changing world of advertising.”

That’s a tall order for anyone, even a decorated TV and radio vet who gradated with a BA in Communications and Media Studies from Boise State University in 1975. But even after decades of working in media, Scott believes personal care for clients and attention to detail continue to be the winning formula.

“Owners of small businesses in Boise are very hands-on, so they have to handle everything under their own roofs and often don’t have time to deal with advertising and marketing,” he noted. “That’s where my agency comes in: We essentially become part of their companies.”

Scott points to his agency’s recent collaboration with Optimist Youth Football & Cheer as an especially fulfilling example of his work.

“We changed their messaging and branding to focus on all the good things about youth football, like team-building,” he said. “The result was incredible forward movement.”

As someone who has witnessed Boise’s growth firsthand, Scott said his agency has changed organically along with the city. What hasn’t changed, regardless of population increase and technology, is his approach to not just business but people in general. He says neighborliness continues to stand as Boise’s strongest shared community trait.

“Calling people by name. Being ‘Boise kind.’ That’s helped me over the years,” noted the eternally optimistic Scott.

Even for a veteran professional with decades of experience, Scott added, “First impressions are really important.”

CHANCELLOR WERNER

BASSETT FURNITURE

Ancestry tests may be all the rage these days, but Chancellor Werner already knows what’s in his DNA: how to craft furniture. Working for a company whose lineage of furniture makers traces back to at least 1902, Bassett and Werner are as natural a match as a chair and a table.

“I’m a third-generation furniture owner, so it’s in my blood. My grandma owned a really small furniture store, and they had to work really hard,” he recalled. “I lived in the same building as the furniture store we had, running up and down the stairs in my diapers.”

Starting with Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc., in May 2011 in Salt Lake City, he’s worked up the ranks from the warehouse to customer service manager to sales manager to operations manager to, as of September 2018, store manager.

Devoting so many years to Bassett, it’s no surprise that Werner takes such pride in his roles with the company — especially his latest one. He also found an opening in which he could help people: While working at the SLC location, he often encountered customers who would drive up to five hours from Idaho because they trusted Bassett, which at that point didn’t have a Boise location.

With interactions with those devoted clients still in mind, Werner kept community at the forefront of his mind — and his store’s operations — when he opened the Meridian location with his wife four years ago.

“When the opportunity came for us, future generations and the community, we couldn’t pass it up,” he said. “There’s a lot of work that goes into it — but a lot of pride too.”

All the while, he continues keeping his parents’ model and the hard work they put into their business at the forefront of his mind.

“They wanted the best for their family and envisioned generations of our family being successful,” he reflected. “I want to continue that legacy.”

CHRIS DWYER

POSS ARCHITECTURE + PLANNING AND INTERIOR DESIGN

It’s always a testament to an employee’s success in achieving strong results, and diligent work ethic, when a company hires them back years after they’ve parted ways with the company. It’s an even more decorated accomplishment when that rehiring comes with a superior title.

Seven years elapsed between the time Chris Dwyer left Poss Architecture + Planning in Aspen, Colorado, as a project manager/designer/job captain/associate — and when the company brought him back as project manager and senior associate for its Boise office in February 2022.

Having worked as a project architect at multiple firms in Boise in between those two stints, Dwyer said returning to Poss was like slipping back into an old glove. Even greater was the sense of satisfaction that came with opening the new location in his Boise hometown for an out-of-state company that he also held dear.

It’s no understatement to say that Dwyer feels like he’s giving back to Boise by leading a cutting-edge architectural firm here.

“At Bishop Kelly [High School], when we were freshmen, we had to present in front of our peers and our professors,” he said. “We had to do that so often over five years that it became second nature — which is the ultimate goal, because you’re always going to have to be presenting to somebody: a client, an engineer, a building official. You’re always having to present your ideas verbally as well as graphically.”

The challenges Dwyer overcame in opening Poss’ Boise office included securing space in high-demand downtown Boise and adding a storefront presence to add a retail component, he said.

Equally important was ensuring that the office had “an inclusive vibe, which allows us all to feel comfortable with each other and exchange our thoughts about design concepts,” Dwyer added. “I want to make sure that, even if we’re on deadlines, we can work together in a professional and collaborative manner.”

SCOTT SCHLANGE KEYBANK

As the Idaho Market President of KeyBank, Scott Schlange holds a hefty title with one of the biggest banks in the United States. But Schlange, who leads KeyBank’s Commercial Banking efforts in the state, prefers to consider himself a “shepherd” between the institution and the Treasure Valley.

“My role is to keep my eyes focused on Ada County to make sure we’re helping the right organizations, keeping in touch with our retail teams and stay connected with community stakeholders,” he said.

Schlange collaborates with the Boise Chamber of Commerce, Idaho Technology Council, Northwest Association for Blind Athletes and Idaho Business for Education — to name just a few.

Indeed, a central focus of Schlange’s role at KeyBank is to work with clients to optimize their cash management, equipment finance, and other banking products and services. But as someone who has volunteered his entire life — from teaching literacy in prisons to serving on the Board of Advisors for the Salvation Army — Schlange says philanthropic efforts molded his career.

“From a values standpoint, listening, compassion, action and inspiration are things I’m trying to be good at,” the father of three humbly stated.

He noted that, over the past three to four years, KeyBank’s contributions to impact grants have increased by 25 percent.

Fortunately for Schlange, he doesn’t have to pick between his commercial dealings and philanthropic endeavors: His duties include teaming closely with KeyBank’s Corporate Responsibility Group to work on spending and strategy for outreach efforts.

Even in new capacity as Idaho Market President, a title he assumed in October, Schlange strives to make sure employees of the corporate behemoth feel appreciated on a human level.

“In the president role, I’ve been able to meet with more employees” than in his previous five years at KeyBank, he said. “On work anniversaries, I make a concerted effort to call and thank them — whether it’s someone who’s been here 40 years or six months.”

DONELL MCNEAL KIDOKINETICS

Donell McNeal knows a thing or two about education. After serving as Principal for the West Ada School District in Meridian for eight years and Assistant Principal for Meridian School District #2 for four years prior to that, McNeal — a father of three — is devoted to enriching the lives of children in his community.

He also knows a thing or two about sports: football in particular. As a former football player for Idaho State University, McNeal also sees values like teamwork, tenacity, celebrating victory and coping with loss as fundamental to childhood development. He also acquired a master’s degree from the same school, in Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services, in 2004.

So it was a shoe-in — or a boot-in, to continue the football metaphor — when the opportunity arose in November for McNeal to begin leading a franchise for Kidokinetics, a sports fitness program for kids of all ages.

“My goal is to help kids who are young — typically between 12 months to 6 years — to have fun, play confidently and leverage their skills with learning and being supportive,” he said. “And I always wanted to have my own franchise and feel like I was leading my own ship.”

As for why he decided to leverage his own experience working in education to Kidokinetics, he candidly stated, “I resigned at end of the year [from West Ada] to transition into social entrepreneurship, and coupling sports with my passion and my purpose of inspiring and motivating young people,” shared McNeal, who lives with his wife in Boise.

More specifically, McNeal is planning to introduce Kidokinetics to daycares, physical-education programs, and even camps and birthday parties, as a way to sway kids into putting technology away and drawing our their active spirit.

“I am manifesting my vision and the vision inside of me that I find when I wake up every day, to partner with families in the community and help the kids,” he said.

Teeing Off in Boise

As the Treasure Valley continues to welcome new faces to the community, there has been an influx of individuals swinging for the green. Once thought of as a “stuffy” sport primarily for the well-established gentleman, the golf reputation has been gradually shifting. According to local teaching professional Phil Pollacia from Galaxy 365, as the population of golfers grows, it has become a “more welcoming environment for beginners than ever before, especially here in Boise.”

WHO CAN PLAY GOLF

One of the best things about golf is that it’s a sport for the lifespan. “Even as a kid, I knew I could do it my whole life,” shared Phil, who started swinging a club in his backyard and he slowly grew into the sport that now consumes most of his day. Whether you start as a child, adult or at retirement, it can be a family sport, or one you take up to spend some extra time with friends, your spouse, or business partners. It’s also a sport that does not require

BRINGING GOLF TO THE TREASURE VALLEY FOR ALL AGES AND STAGES

GET ACTIVE | SPORTS + RECREATION

AND PHOTOGRAPHY

excessive physical exertion. With the option to walk or ride many courses, you get to choose how many steps you’d like to add to your game.

WHY PLAY GOLF

There are many reasons for getting out on the course and taking on the challenge of hitting a small ball into a seemingly smaller hole. For Phil, in addition to being able to take this sport with him across his lifespan, he said, initially, “it was something I could do alone.” Many sports require teams or partners, whereas golf gives you the freedom to play alone or with others.

Golf also allows one to access and enjoy nature. Some of the most beautiful scenery and views can only be accessed on the golf course across the U.S. and several other countries. It’s also one of the few sports that can provide a relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors. How many sports can you partake in where you can also enjoy a cocktail while cruising across scenic landscapes in a cart?

Phil pointed out that golf can also help teach some valuable life lessons and it’s important to go into golf expecting frustration to arise during the game.  “There are a lot of parables you can draw from golf that relate to life. For instance, there’s a lot of things that can stress you out such as bunkers and there are small margins for error. Because of having that mindset that golf gives me, it helps with perseverance in other areas of life.”

Although working through those life lessons solo is an option, comradery can be another benefit for golf-goers. “You meet people from different businesses” which helps professionals like Phil network with others. It’s also just fun to meet people from different walks of life. You might even find yourself like we did on the golf course playing a round with the owner of Wetzel’s Pretzels or a world champion high diver. There are also many events that bring people together on the course.

Companies like Bank of Idaho throw charity event golf tournaments, people celebrate birthdays

and weddings on the golf course, and it’s a place the whole family can spend time together. Other times, it’s just a nice way to enjoy the afternoon with a friend or spouse.

HOW TO PLAY GOLF

“Equipment matters,” Phil emphasized. If you’re really wanting to improve your game and develop good golf habits, investing in a proper set of clubs, which includes irons and wedges, is key for a good golf swing. Among other local club fitters, Golf 365 is one that provides access to Henry Griffitts, the world’s premiere custom fit golf clubs based right here in Idaho. If you’re not sure if you’re ready to fully commit, used clubs can also be purchased at local sporting goods stores. Two of the most important things to consider when picking out clubs are shaft flexibility and the lie angle, or how the club sits on the ground when you hold it in a proper stance. For instance, if the club is too short or long, the lie angle will be off, adversely affecting accuracy and consistency of the golf swing.

Once you’ve got proper clubs, balls, glove, tees, and maybe even a handy range finder to track your distance, it’s good to brush up on golf etiquette before heading out onto the course. One of the most important aspects when being on the course is being aware of your surroundings to avoid hitting others that may be ahead of you. Pace of play is another key aspect to be aware of in the game. Many courses set an average round time and if too much time is spent taking practice shots, or spending several minutes searching for a ball, it slows down the game for everyone.

When beginning to learn the game, Phil recommends starting slow.  If you don’t have access to an executive course, which is shorter than a standard golf course, you can simply start closer to the green. Phil advised, “It’s better to learn the game from the green back.” In other words, work on the short game, like putting and chipping, and slowly work back to the tees. And as a novice, picking up the ball

Treasure Valley also offers year-round golf options in indoor and outdoor venues, some of which provide clubs or allow your own.

OUTDOOR VENUES

Beginner-Friendly Public Courses

BOISE: Pierce Park Greens; Indian Lakes; Warm Springs

STAR: River Birch

WILDER: River Bend

Additional Local Public Golf Courses

BOISE: Quail Hollow; Boise Ranch

NAMPA: Red Hawk

CALDWELL: Timberstone

EAGLE: Banbury

GARDEN CITY: Shadow Valley

KUNA: Falcon Crest

Greater Idaho Public Courses

Sun Valley Golf Resort

Coeur d’Alene Resort

Circling Raven

The Idaho Club

INDOOR VENUES

BOISE: Golf 365; Golf Galaxy ; X-Golf ; GolfTec

MERIDIAN: PGA Golf Store; TopGolf (Indoor/Outdoor)

EAGLE: Golf Your Way

on occasion allows for practice without getting overly frustrated or trying to take shots that are difficult even for the professional.

During time away from the course, taking a lesson or two, or more, is never a bad idea. Golf is a never ending learning process. “There’s always room for improvement,” shared Phil, even for the professional. And of course, as with any skill you want to improve, practice is key. Finding someone who’s more seasoned or taking lessons from a professional can ignite excitement for the game, and it’s also helpful to continue lessons to maintain or improve if you want to take things to the next level.

After spending more time on the course, you’re also likely to start picking up on some of the lingo or golf jargon that comes along with the game. For the novice player, mulligans give you a second chance to swing. You may also need to yell “Fore!” to warn others of your shanked shot! When someone seems excited about getting a “birdie” or “eagle,” it’s because they got the ball into the hole under par, not because they hit an unsuspecting feathered friend! If you decide to up your golf game to a more competitive status, signing up for a handicap through USGA will be critical because it represents your ability based on prior rounds played.

WHERE TO PLAY GOLF

“There’s definitely a market for golf courses,” Phil speculated, as there does not seem to be enough golf courses for the growing population of golfers in Boise. Nevertheless, there are several courses currently to choose from that include ranges and putting greens.

Thankfully, Boise also offers year-round golf options. Top Golf brings golfers and non-golfers together in an indoor/outdoor facility that provides clubs or allows you to bring your own clubs to practice to improve your game or play a round of Angry Birds golf. Several venues offer lessons or simulator rental time on indoor golf simulators with virtual golf ranges or courses in addition to club fittings and swing analysis. For instance, Galaxy 365 has an About Golf simulator that gives you access to 70 different courses, all from the comfort of indoors, and also has one of the most accurate ball tracking technologies available. Be sure to check out my golf photos from around the state on CityLifestyle.com . No matter where you choose to play, remember to have fun!

EXPLORING MEXICO’S RIVIERA MAYA

GOLF WITH CARIBBEAN VIEWS, CENOTES AND ANCIENT HISTORY

Take an early flight and you could be dining on the Mexican Riviera Maya’s Caribbean shores by dinnertime. From Cancún airport, a quick car ride will deliver you into the warm embrace of the Yucatán.

This peninsula, separating the Gulf of Mexico from the Caribbean Sea, is host to white, sandy beaches, crystal clear blue waters, tropical rain forests and jungles, and the rich history of the Mayan people.

You could plant your beach umbrella in Cancún, but I would recommend venturing further afield to the heart of the Riviera Maya to Playa del Carmen, Akumal or Tulúm, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience more of

the local culture. Although the region’s biggest business is rooted in tourism, there is a lot to discover.

If you want to spend an afternoon on the fairway, there are many options. With a tropical climate that brings plenty of moisture, golf courses are lush with Caribbean views. Mayakoba El Camaleón ranks among the world’s best. Designed by world-renowned Australian golfer Greg Norman and home to the OHL Classic, the first PGA tour event to take place outside of the U.S. and Canada, the 7,024 yards of this course plays through Mayan jungle, mangrove wetlands and the beach.

For me, a crucial part of travel is being able to soak up the authentic nature of a place… and I love to shop. Culture and history are baked into handmade products. Weaving and embroidery are traditions that date back hundreds of years in the Yucatán. Artisan cooperatives in nearby Merída, Timul and X-Pichil preserve the art of handwoven hammocks and the Maya hipil dress. It can take as many as 15 days to create an elaborate, tasseled hammock.

There are two things not to miss when visiting the Yucatán: cenotes and the archeological zones. There are thousands of cenotes throughout the peninsula. These freshwater sinkholes, all connected through limestone passageways, are crystal clear, cool water pools.

There are 18 archaeological zones in the region, including Chichén Itzá, Xcambó and Tulúm. From 600 - 900 A.D. the Mayan civilization thrived, built complex cities and developed the science of astronomy and calendar systems. It’s pretty humbling to stand in the shadow of Chichén Itzá and think about the 35,000 inhabitants that lived and worked there more than 1,000 years ago.

After all that exploring, you could rest your head at Mayakoba, an award-winning eco-paradise with four luxury hotels, white sandy beaches and miles of lush, green jungle. Each hotel has a unique flavor with a private beachfront, multiple eateries, and a spa.

There is so much to see and do, in addition to taking time out just to lounge on a beach chair. In a week you can just about scratch the surface of what the area has to offer… and then hopefully you’ll be able to visit again to experience even more. Mayakoba.com

IN ANCIENT MAYAN TIMES, CENOTES WERE AN IMPORTANT WATER SOURCE AND A MYSTICAL CONNECTION TO THE UNDERWORLD. TODAY, THEY ARE LOCAL SWIMMING SPOTS AND A MAGICAL PLACE TO SEE COLORFUL FISH, TURTLES AND AQUATIC PLANT LIFE.

THINK. BELIEVE. SERVE.

The goal of classical Christian education is formation, not merely information.

We work with parents to prepare young people to think with depth, believe with courage, and serve with compassion.

Learn more at theambroseschool.org

PreK - 12 Classical Christian Education

GARDEN TO GLASS

DIY COCKTAILS WITH FRESH HERBS

Nothing says spring like the aroma of fresh-cut herbs in a crisp, cold, cocktail. With warmer weather finally here, growing herbs at home can transform your cocktail hour and add a fresh kick to your springtime favorites.

Growing herbs is incredibly easy and can be done in a variety of ways—from a container in a window, to a planter box in the yard. With a container or garden full of fresh herbs, you will be ready to take your cocktails up a notch.

Basil is a bright herb that is easy to grow and perfect for cocktails. Make sure to harvest immediately before mixing drinks and take leaves from the top to ensure a continual harvest. Fresh muddled basil leaves lend a crispness to the Gin Basil Cucumber cocktail.

Sage is easy to grow and does well in containers. The leaves add an earthy freshness to a refreshing cherry-infused Bourbon.

Mint is also easy to grow, but give it lots of room, as it likes to spread out and is virtually indestructible in the garden. Mint is a versatile herb but is especially lovely in the Rhubarb Mint Mojito.

Try recreating these refreshing cocktails with herbs grown at home and take your cocktail game to new heights!

MR. BROWN INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz. cherry-sage infused Bourbon

• 0.75 oz. apple brandy or apple jack brandy

DIRECTIONS

• Place over an ice ball in an old-fashioned glass

• Top with ginger beer and garnish with Bordeaux cherries and leaf of sage

RHUBARB MINT MOJITO

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz. white rum

• 1 oz. rhubarb puree (2 cups rhubarb, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water)

• 0.5 oz. fresh lime juice

• 8-10 fresh mint leaves

• soda water

• lemon-lime soda

• ice

DIRECTIONS:

• Muddle mint, lime juice, and rhubarb puree in a glass or small cocktail shaker

• Once muddled, add the white rum and ice

• Top with large cocktail shaker and shake for a few seconds

• Remove large shaker and pour everything into a glass

• Top with more ice

• Add soda water and lemon-lime soda (equal parts to your liking)

• Garnish with mint leaf and lime wheel

GIN BASIL CUCUMBER

INGREDIENTS

• 2-3 fresh basil leaves

• 0.5 oz. fresh lime juice

• 0.25 oz. simple syrup

• 2-3 cucumber slices

• 2 oz. gin

• tonic water

DIRECTIONS

• Muddle basil, lime juice, simple syrup and cucumber slices together in a small cocktail shaker

• Add gin and ice to cocktail shaker

• Shake well

• Strain over an ice ball

• Top with tonic water and garnish with basil leaf and a cucumber slice

GO AXE-THROWING

Axe-throwing venues are still going strong across the country. Make an evening of it and practice your throwing skills!

MAKE AN IMPACT FOR DAD

Memorable Ways to Celebrate The Father Figure in Your Life

What do you buy for the man who has everything? Perhaps an experience oriented around what dads value most— time together —is just what he needs. Fathers and father figures are invaluable in our lives. They help shape and mold us. They’re there for us and support us. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Dad feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your dad, husband, brother or father figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

COOK SOMETHING ADVENTUROUS

If some of Dad’s role models include Gordon Ramsay and Bobby Flay, consider thinking outside the box and create a meal with something you wouldn’t usually go for like bison burgers or grilled octopus tentacles. Tackling a complex recipe may seem challenging but the memories and the meal will be worth it.

GO ON A BIKE RIDE

Find a local trail you haven’t tried before, load up the bikes and set out for a day of riding. Finish off the day with a nice meal out after all your hard work.

MAKE A TIME CAPSULE

Dig a hole in your backyard and have Dad help the kids gather items around the house (like a current newspaper or flyers) and put them in a waterproof bag.

LEARN

Family heritage websites can offer insight into Dad’s past and be an interesting way to study the history of your family. Present Dad with a report on his ancestors or dig in together!

GO BIRD WATCHING

Lay out a blanket in your backyard and grab your binoculars for a peaceful, naturefilled day. Make a list of how many different kinds of birds you see and guess if you can identify them.

GO BOWLING

Bowling is a timeless classic Dad is sure to enjoy. Bonus if the bowling alley has an arcade, chicken wings and Dad’s favorite beverage of choice.

Meridian + Valley Events

JUNE 2023

1 — FIRST THURSDAY

Downtown, Boise, 5:00 PM: Tastings of local foods and drinks, art exhibits, live music, and fun activities for the whole family. downtownboise.org

2 — 41ST GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL

2618 West Bannock Street, 11:00 AM: The event will feature traditional Greek dishes, baked goods, music, and dancing. boisegreekfestival.com

3 — THE URBAN CULTURAL FASHION SHOW

TRICA Preschool of the Arts, 3:00 PM: Come see culture and high fashion at their finest and help us celebrate them! cultureforchangefoundation.org

3 — BLACK BELT TEST

Kim’s Taekwondo School, 11:00 AM: Looking for new students to join its growing community of martial artists. appleathleticclub.com

3 — FIRST FRIDAY ART AND STUDIO STROLLS

Surel’s Place, 5:30 PM: Exhibits, readings, and performances are just some of the spectacular events that will be held. surelsplace.org

7 — PUBLIC WORKS WEEK EXPO

City Hall Plaza, 4:00 PM: The Expo can be a fun and instructive event for the whole family, showcasing the Department’s services such as wastewater management, environmental programs, recycling, and trash collection and disposal. meridiancity.org

9 — LECTURES BY LASHES

The Balcony Club, 7:00 PM: Join us for our one-of-a-kind lecture series, where you can learn from experts about interesting issues. downtownboise.org

10 — RUN THE RACE

Ann Morrison Park, 9:00 AM: To raise awareness for the refugees in our community. runtherace.run

10 — ACCESS TO JUSTICE FUND RUN 5K FUN & WALK

Fort Boise Park, 10:00 AM: In order to offer free civil legal services to low-income and otherwise disadvantaged Idahoans, the Access to Justice Idaho campaign generates money for DisAbility

Rights Idaho, Idaho Legal Aid Services, and the Idaho Volunteer Lawyers Program. isb.idaho.gov

10 — THE MIND READER

The Egyptian Theater, 7:30 PM: Step into the mysterious and intriguing world of Las Vegas mentalist and magician Kent Axell, who can read your mind and predict your actions in ways you never imagined . egyptiantheatre.net

15 — MINGLE AT THE MUSEUM

Mississippi Children’s Museum, 6:00 PM: It features exciting carnival activities, lively musical performances, and a plethora of chances to win fantastic prizes. mschildrensmuseum.org

16 — SUMMERY MARKET

Expo Idaho, 4:00 PM: Discover over 130 of the finest local artisans and innovative business owners of Idaho. wintrymarket.com

17 — PUBLIC ART WALKING TOUR

Boise City Hall, 9:30 AM: Visit Downtown Boise’s public art installations with the Public Art Program Team. boiseartsandhistory.org

17 — FATHER’S DAY WEEKEND CLASSIC CAR SHOW

Meridian, 11:30 AM: Fathers and their families will be honored with a vehicle show, live music, and a catered meal. meridian.touchmark.com

19 — SUMMER ART CAMP

Village Leadership Academy, 9:30 AM: When kids get the chance to explore their creative sides and they gain confidence, and inspiration. backgatestudioboise.eventbrite.com

21-24 — MERIDIAN DAIRY DAYS

Storey Park: Celebrates the city’s agricultural heritage, particularly its dairy industry with parade, carnival rides, live music, a rodeo. DairyDays.org

24 — GOOD GRIEF WORKSHOP

True North Yoga, 1:00 PM: Find out how to fortify your spiritual ties, and give yourself permission to rely on your intuition. truenorthyoga.co