BOISE — The City of Boise will begin construction on 8th Street for the second phase of upgrades in order to improve accessibility and mobility while keeping it car-free and cultivating a vibrant and energetic public space for everyone in the community.

Construction for phase two will start near the beginning of May and it is expected to be completed by the end of November 2026.

"For years, residents, visitors and businesses have enjoyed a car-free 8th Street, allowing for more people to move freely and safely through downtown Boise," said Boise Mayor Lauren McLean. "These upgrades will strengthen 8th Street as a more accessible, walkable, and vibrant part of our downtown core."

Construction will start on the south block between Main Street and Idaho Street, with the work around that block anticipated to conclude in September. Construction will transition to the north block, between Idaho Street and Bannock Street, around mid-August with completion of the project expected by the end of November.

"As the upgrades take place over the next few months, I encourage anyone who can to support our unique local businesses along 8th Street," Mayor McLean continued.

Businesses on 8th Street will remain open for the duration of the project. Existing patios will be temporarily reduced or removed during construction and will transition to new configurations once construction is finalized.

Once complete, the new 8th Street design will create a better sense of place by encouraging movement and providing opportunity for programmable community events, activation and leisure. Improvements include bike parking, pedestrian walkways, signage, lighting, landscaping, public seating and accessibility upgrades.
 
This initiative will complete the work that began with phase one in early 2024. Learn more about the 8th Street improvements.

MEDIA RELEASE: March 11, 2026

FORT HALL, IDAHO —The Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel has announced that the Mark Wills concert originally scheduled for Saturday, March 7, 2026, has been rescheduled to Friday, May 1, 2026. All previously purchased tickets will be honored for the new date.

Guests who are unable to attend the rescheduled performance may request a refund through March 26, 2026. After that date, all ticket purchases will return to the property’s standard refund policy. The Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel appreciates the community’s patience and understanding regarding this schedule change and look forward to welcoming guests to an exciting night with Mark Wills this spring.

​For refund requests or additional ticket information, guests may contact [email protected]. Tickets are available for purchase now. Further updates will also be shared through the Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel’s verified social media channels and at shobangaming.com.

Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel is home to an 85 thousand-square-foot gaming operation, 156 hotel rooms, a 15,000 square-foot ballroom/event space, five food and beverage outlets, and High Stakes Bingo Hall.
The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes owns and operates three gaming properties, including the Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel, Sage Hill Casino and Travel Center, and Bannock Peak Casino and Truck Stop. The Economic Growth Plan continues to evolve for the health and benefit of the Tribal membership and the Eastern Idaho Region.

[Meridian, Idaho] – January 20, 2026 -- Sorren, a Top 50 national tax, accounting, and advisory firm founded in the Treasure Valley, has announced the appointment of Josh Tyree as Chief Executive Officer, effective January 20, 2026. Tyree previously served as President and has played a central role in the firm’s growth from its Idaho beginnings to a national platform.

Founded in Idaho in 1996 as Harris & Co., Sorren has grown into the largest Idaho-based accounting and advisory firm, while remaining deeply rooted in the local business community. The firm’s expansion has brought national opportunities and long-term investment back to its Treasure Valley headquarters – supporting jobs, leadership development, and economic growth across the state, while strengthening local businesses through expanded service capabilities.

Today, Tyree is widely known within Idaho’s business community as a collaborative, values-driven leader committed to both professional excellence and community impact.

“This transition reflects years of intentional leadership development and strong planning,” said Michael O’Donnell, Executive Chairman of Sorren. “Josh has been instrumental in shaping Sorren’s growth while staying true to the values that defined the firm from the beginning. His leadership ensures that Sorren’s national success continues to benefit the communities where it all started.”

Tyree’s appointment follows a planned leadership transition, with O’Donnell moving into the Executive Chairman role after serving as CEO during Sorren’s early formation. O’Donnell will remain actively involved as a strategic advisor to the firm.

“As Sorren has grown, our responsibility to Idaho has only increased,” said Tyree. “We’re proud to be an Idaho-grown firm competing on a national stage – and even prouder that ourgrowth creates opportunity for our people, our clients, and the communities we serve here at home.”

Under Tyree’s leadership, Sorren has accelerated its integration and growth plans, uniting firms and teams across the country while preserving the local relationships and culture that have long defined its success. The firm’s continued expansion reinforces the Treasure Valley’s role as a hub for leadership, talent, and innovation within the accounting and advisory profession.

About Sorren
Sorren is a Top 50 national tax, accounting, and advisory firm founded in Idaho’s Treasure Valley. With offices and professionals across the United States, Sorren combines national resources with local expertise to support clients, communities, and long-term economic growth.

For more information, visit www.sorren.com.

Boise, Idaho — November 3, 2025 — The Idaho Botanical Garden invites the Treasure Valley community to experience one of the region’s most beloved holiday traditions as Winter Garden aGlow returns for its 29th season. From late November through December, the Garden will sparkle with more than 850,000 lights, transforming its winter landscape into a glowing celebration of joy, community, and connection. 
What began nearly three decades ago as a small neighborhood event has grown into one of Boise’s signature seasonal experiences and the Garden’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting plant conservation, education, and community programs throughout the year. 
“Every light tells a story — of the people who visit, the memories made, and the community that keeps this tradition shining,” said Erin Anderson, Executive Director of the Idaho Botanical Garden. “Winter Garden aGlow isn’t just about lights; it’s about supporting a place that connects people to nature and to one another all year long.” 
New in 2025 
This year’s Winter Garden aGlow introduces several fresh experiences that invite guests to see the Garden in a new light: 

• Yuletide Bar – new this year, replacing the former Snow Globe Bar, this cozy lodge-inspired venue offers festive drinks and a warm retreat amid the glow. 
• Silent Disco – dance under the lights with wireless headphones in the lively Disco Snowman area. 
• Lighted Hula Hoops – interactive fun for kids and adults alike. 
• Jerome the Gnome Scavenger Hunt – a whimsical search for hidden gnomes throughout the Garden, perfect for families and returning guests. 
• Unique displays and photo opportunities 

Returning Favorites 
Guests will once again delight in the event’s most cherished displays, including: 

• Candy Cane Forest and Gumdrop Grove, sweetly themed pathways filled with color and wonder. 
• Gingerbread House Exhibit, a community-built display celebrating creativity and holiday spirit. 
• Santa’s North Pole Gathering Place, where families can meet Santa on select nights and drop off letters to the North Pole. 
• The Garden Store, or the Stocking Stuffer Station as it is known, filled with unique, nature-inspired gifts, holiday décor, and locally made treasures, with every purchase supporting the Garden’s mission. Garden Membership gift certificates will also be available 
• And back after a hiatus, the Trains, a long-awaited favorite returns, winding through the twinkling displays once again. 

 
Lighting the Way Forward 
As the Garden’s largest annual fundraiser, Winter Garden aGlow directly supports educational programming, sustainable horticulture, and community events year-round. The event embodies the Idaho Botanical Garden’s mission to connect people, plants, and place, and to celebrate the natural beauty that thrives even in winter. 
“Winter Garden aGlow has become a Boise tradition because it reminds us what’s possible when a community invests in something lasting,” said Anderson. “Each visit helps ensure the Garden continues to grow, inspire, and give back all year long.” 
​
About Idaho Botanical Garden  
Located in the heart of Boise, the Idaho Botanical Garden cultivates a love of nature through plant collections, education, art, and community events. The Garden serves as a living museum and a gathering space that inspires connection to the natural world. Learn more at https://www.idahobotanicalgarden.org/. 

PULLMAN, Washington. (Oct. 27, 2025) — Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) is adding 370,000 square feet of new and expanded facilities to locations in Moscow and Boise, Idaho, and Charlotte, North Carolina. These investments are part of a long-term strategic plan and reflect continued growth and a commitment to serving customers worldwide.

Over the next two years, SEL plans to invest approximately $90 million across three major capital projects:

• Moscow, Idaho — SEL will construct a 150,000-square-foot electronic device manufacturing facility on its Schwartz Campus on South Main Street. Located next to its printed circuit board factory, the $50 million state-of-the-art facility will significantly enhance manufacturing capabilities. Completion is expected in 2027.

 

• Boise, Idaho — SEL will expand to accommodate its growing team with a $25 million investment, including the purchase and remodel of a 170,000-square-foot building. This expansion, expected to be completed in 2026, will support continued innovation and growth in the region.

 

• Charlotte, North Carolina — SEL will build a 50,000-square-foot office building adjacent to its current facility at 901 Center Park Drive. The $15 million expansion will support the growth of its panels and enclosures manufacturing operations and is scheduled for completion in 2027.

“Despite the recent economic and political volatility related to trade and tariffs, we remain optimistic about the future,” said SEL Founder Edmund O. Schweitzer, III. “Our teams have been making adjustments to our existing spaces to increase capacity, but we are at a point where larger capital investments are needed to continue inventing, designing and building products to meet the needs of our customers.”

According to Dr. Schweitzer, SEL evaluates where to grow based on a number of factors, including analysis from the SEL Index of Freedom—an annual ranking that assesses the 50 U.S. states based on government efficiency, regulatory freedom and energy resiliency. These are three pillars the company considers essential for a thriving business environment.

For project updates, visit the SEL Newsroom at selinc.com.

BOISE, ID – Block 22 Management Group and CEO John Cunningham announced today that Sarah Smith has been promoted to Creative Director of Block 22 Properties. In addition, Michael Munn has been promoted to Director of Information Technology, Lilinda Thompson to Director of Human Resources, and Samantha Bolen to Assistant Controller.

​“Block 22’s success has always been attributable to its outstanding team of professionals,” said John Cunningham, CEO of Block 22 Management Group. “Sarah, Michael, Lilinda, and Samantha are representative of the skills and commitment of our entire team. These promotions recognize their hard work, performance, and are all well-deserved.”

Sarah Smith was recently promoted in November 2023 to Director of Creative Services with the Idaho Steelheads after spending the previous four years as Graphic Design and Social Media Manager. She first joined the company as an intern in August 2015 working primarily as a graphic design intern with the sales team at The Grove Hotel. The Nampa, ID native earned her undergraduate degree in Graphic Design with a minor in Spanish from Northwest Nazarene University in May 2016. Shen then began working full-time for Block 22 Management Group upon graduation with emphasis on graphic design and marketing for The Grove Hotel and Idaho Steelheads.

“Sarah has been an instrumental piece in continuing to enhance our brand within all our properties specifically with the Steelheads,” said Eric Trapp, President of Idaho Sports Properties. “Throughout her time within our organization she has taken on more responsibilities and has proven that she is a very well-rounded team player and leader. We are excited to acknowledge all her success with this promotion and look forward to seeing her further development within our company.”

Smith continued to elevate her role within Block 22 Management Group as she integrated herself into more properties within the company. In 2017, she began to work with Hotel 43 and Courtyard by Marriott as a graphic designer and marketing coordinator, increasing brand exposure by revamping advertising. In 2019, she designed and developed brand identity melding the eclectic and aesthetic of the remodeled Trillium Restaurant.

“Sarah Smith leading the Creative Services team will elevate Block 22 properties,” said Vicki Carley, Regional Director of Sales and Marketing. “Her focus on branding for our independent hotels, creativity, and cohesive messaging will allow us to have a stronger presence on many platforms. Her passion and knowledge for sports, entertainment, and the hospitality industries make Sarah the ideal leader to develop this team of talented individuals.”

Michael Munn has been with Block 22 for over 12 years where he has overseen the management of all company operations systems. The Ontario, OR native’s deep technical expertise and commitment to security has protected all Block 22 systems and guest data since he started.

Lilinda Thompson has been with Block 22 for four years, serving as Manager of Human Resources. With her extensive background in both management and educational leadership, she brings a wealth of experience and deep understanding of people-centered strategy. Thompson has been instrumental in developing a culture rooted in hospitality and servant leadership, setting the tone for a workplace where every team member feels valued and supported. She holds a Bachelor of Science from WSU in Hotel and Restaurant Management, a Master of Science in Business Management, and is a certified Society for Human Resource Management member (SHRM-CP).

Samantha Bolen has been with Block 22 for eight years where she has served as a Senior Accountant and Accounts Receivable/Staff Accountant. The Lewiston, Idaho native holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Idaho in Accounting and Finance. 

FORT HALL, IDAHO – The Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel is proud to celebrate Shoshone-Bannock Festival week with an exciting lineup of live music for guests and the community to enjoy.
 
On Friday, August 8, 2025, join us outdoors for a special performance by Stella Standingbear, a talented Lakota singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and soulful storytelling that blends contemporary sounds with her Native roots. Her music uplifts and connects audiences, sharing messages of resilience, tradition, and hope. This show is free and open to the public as part of our commitment to honoring the cultural heritage of this important week.
 
On Friday, August 8, 2025, Apache Spirit will take the stage indoors at the Chiefs Event Center for a night of high-energy entertainment from 9pm to 1am. Apache Spirit is renowned across Indian Country for their versatile blend of country, rock, and dance music that keeps crowds moving all night long. Tickets for this show are $20.
 
Then on Saturday, August 9, Apache Spirit returns for a free outdoor performance from 9pm to 1am. Bring your friends and family to enjoy their vibrant show under the summer night sky as we continue to celebrate the Shoshone-Bannock Festival weekend together.
 
For more information about these and other upcoming events, visit shobangaming.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
 
Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel is home to an 85 thousand-square-foot gaming operation, 156 hotel rooms, a 15,000 square-foot ballroom/event space, full-service spa, five food and beverage outlets, and High Stakes Bingo Hall.
 
The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes owns and operates three gaming properties, including the Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel, Sage Hill Casino and Travel Center, and Bannock Peak Casino and Truck Stop. The Economic Growth Plan continues to evolve for the health and benefit of the Tribal membership and the Eastern Idaho Region.
​