Winter Garden aGlow Celebrates 29 Years with 850,000 Lights Illuminating a Boise Holiday Tradition11/4/2025
 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:
Returning Favorites Guests will once again delight in the event’s most cherished displays, including:
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:
“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, Idaho, Fall 2025 — The Grove Hotel, a cornerstone of Boise’s hospitality and event scene since
1997, is nearing completion of the most extensive renovation in its history. The transformation redefines the guest experience with refreshed spaces that blend contemporary elegance with Boise’s natural beauty and welcoming spirit. All 234 guest rooms and suites have been reimagined with modern furnishings, luxury flooring, updated lighting, and upgraded bathrooms with walk-in showers. Public spaces, corridors, and meeting rooms have also been enhanced, creating a cohesive design rooted in Boise’s unique identity. The project was led in partnership with EDGEiD, a nationally recognized interior design and procurement firm specializing in hospitality spaces. Known for their collaborative and detail-driven approach, EDGEiD curated the warm, natural palette and thoughtful finishes that bring the renovation to life. “The design process with The Grove Hotel was both creative and seamless,” said Kari Bennett, founder and CEO of EDGEiD. “Their vision, paired with our expertise, resulted in spaces that feel sophisticated, welcoming, and distinctly tied to Boise’s identity as the City of Trees. We especially loved creating a concept that connects the guestrooms, lobby, and meeting spaces, ensuring every detail feels cohesive and part of one unified story.” “This renovation reflects our promise of ‘Redefined Luxury, Rooted in Boise,” said John Cunningham, CEO of Block 22, LLC. “Working closely with EDGEiD, we have created spaces that are not only visually stunning but deeply connected to our city’s character. This project ensures The Grove Hotel remains a landmark for guests and the community while elevating Boise’s hospitality experience for decades to come.” Since opening its doors, The Grove Hotel has embodied a lasting connection to Boise, reflected not only in its design but also in the River Sculpture standing proudly at its entrance. A symbol of its enduring role in Boise’s story for nearly three decades. Situated steps from the Idaho State Capitol and directly connected to Idaho Central Arena, The Grove Hotel continues to serve as a gateway to downtown Boise, offering guests unmatched access to cultural attractions, events, and the natural beauty of the Treasure Valley. For more information, please visit www.grovehotelboise.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. Morrison Center’s Brian Thacker Earns Certified Venue Professional (CVP) Designation from IAVM7/11/2025
Boise, ID — The Morrison Center for the Performing Arts is proud to announce that Brian Thacker, Director of Venue and Patron Services, has earned the Certified Venue Professional (CVP) designation from the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM), making him the only CVP based at a performing arts center in the state of Idaho.
The CVP credential recognizes mid- to senior-level venue professionals who demonstrate the experience, leadership, and knowledge essential for effective venue management. It signifies a commitment to the highest standards in venue operations, guest services, and professional development within the live events industry. “Brian exemplifies professionalism, passion, and a deep commitment to our patrons, staff, and visiting artists,” said Laura Kendall, Executive Director of the Morrison Center. “Receiving the CVP designation is a well-deserved honor that reflects his hard work and the high standards he upholds in everything he does.” Thacker joins a distinguished group of professionals nationwide who have earned the CVP designation through IAVM. The certification process includes rigorous eligibility requirements, including proven leadership and demonstrated expertise in areas such as operations, guest experience, and team management. “I’m incredibly honored to receive the CVP designation,” said Thacker. “This recognition reflects not only my dedication to the field but also the support and excellence of the entire team at the Morrison Center. It’s a privilege to represent Idaho and help raise the bar for performing arts venues across the region.” Thacker has been with the Morrison Center since 2016, overseeing front-of-house operations, patron services, and overall guest experience. His leadership continues to enhance the Morrison Center’s reputation as one of the Northwest’s leading cultural institutions. To learn more about the CVP program, visit iavm.org/cvp. Custom designed cart to honor both active and veteran military members
SEATTLE — Alaska Airlines, in partnership with Boise Airport (BOI), today unveiled a custom-designed Fallen Soldier Cart during a ceremonial hand-off to honor the nation’s military heroes on their final journey. This marks the 17th cart created by Alaska Airlines maintenance employees as part of the airline’s ongoing commitment to honoring fallen service members.
The Fallen Soldier Cart is a solemn and dignified means of transporting the remains of deceased military personnel to and from aircraft. Available to all airlines operating at BOI, the cart serves as a powerful symbol of respect and remembrance for the sacrifices made by service members and their families. “It is our honor to bring this Fallen Soldier Cart to Boise and continue our commitment to our fallen military members,” said Scott Warth, organizer of the Alaska Airlines Fallen Soldier Program for Boise. “Our program is dedicated to ensuring that every active, retired, or veteran military member—and their families—receives the utmost care and respect for their service and sacrifice. Our goal is to place a cart at every airport served by Alaska Airlines to pay tribute in a respectful and dignified manner.” The Boise cart features a unique design that includes:
To commemorate the occasion, Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air flew in their special military-themed aircraft, “Honoring Those Who Serve,” which serve as flying tributes to the bravery and dedication of military personnel. Launched in May 2011 by Alaska Airlines employees, the Fallen Soldier Program follows military protocols to ensure the respectful handling of fallen service members. The program not only honors the deceased but also reinforces the airline’s enduring support for the military community. About Alaska Air Group Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air are subsidiaries of Alaska Air Group, with McGee Air Services a subsidiary of Alaska Airlines. With hubs in Seattle, Honolulu, Portland, Anchorage, Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco, we deliver remarkable care as we fly our guests to more than 140 destinations throughout North America, Latin America, Asia and the Pacific. Alaska is a member of the oneworld Alliance with Hawaiian scheduled to join in 2026. With oneworld and our additional global partners, guests can earn and redeem miles for travel to over 1,000 worldwide destinations. Guests can book travel at alaskaair.com and hawaiianairlines.com. Learn more about what’s happening at Alaska and Hawaiian. Alaska Air Group is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) as “ALK.” About Boise Airport The Boise Airport welcomed nearly 5 million passengers in 2024 and is served by nine airlines flying to 26 nonstop destinations. As infrastructure critical to the region’s growth and prosperity, the Boise Airport is a vital asset for Idaho and serves as a gateway to the entire Treasure Valley. According to a recent study, each year BOI generates more than $2.9 billion in total economic impact, supports more than 21,000 jobs in the region and produces more than $157 million in state and local taxes. BOI receives no local tax dollars. Visit iflyboise.com to learn more.  PRESS RELEASE
BOISE, IDAHO, June 13, 2025 — CSHQA, a 100% employee-owned architecture and engineering firm, today announced a leadership transition as part of its continued focus on long-term growth and cultural alignment. Ryan Martin has stepped down as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. The firm’s Board of Directors has appointed Mark Gier, formerly Vice President of Architecture, to serve as Interim CEO. “On behalf of the Board, we want to thank Ryan Martin for his service and contributions during a time of significantgrowth for the firm,” said Jim Otradosky, Board Chair. “This transition marks a new chapter, one that builds on our momentum and recommits to the values that define our firm: collaboration, creativity, excellence, integrity, and knowledge.” Mark Gier, a long-tenured and trusted leader within CSHQA, brings deep operational experience and strong relationships across teams, clients, and markets. The firm’s strategic direction remains unchanged, with a continued focus on delivering design excellence and long-term value for its clients and communities. “Our leadership transition is grounded in stability and continuity,” said Gier. “We remain fully committed to our projects, our partners, and our people.” CSHQA has initiated our permanent leadership search. In the meantime, the Board and leadership team are confident in the firm’s trajectory and in Mark Gier’s ability to guide the organization forward. ### With a history spanning over 135 years, CSHQA is an award-winning design firm specializing in full-service architecture, engineering, interiors, and land development. The firm designs projects for the aviation, adaptive reuse, government and civic, grocery, higher education, historic preservation, hospitality, multi-family housing, retail and commercial, and workplace sectors. Established in 1889 and 100% employee-owned since 2018, CSHQA has offices in Boise, Idaho; Dallas, Texas; Denver, Colorado; and Sacramento, California, with licensed professionals available to meet client needs nationwide. On Tuesday, Boise City Council confirmed Mayor Lauren McLean’s appointment of City Councilmember Jimmy Hallyburton to the Capital City Development Corporation (CCDC) Board of Commissioners. Hallyburton will serve a five-year term, concluding in 2030.
“Councilmember Hallyburton’s work towards and passion for creating a city for everyone speaks volumes to his commitment to serve Boiseans in meaningful ways,” says Mayor McLean. “I look forward to his service as a CCDC commissioner.” Hallyburton was elected to his first term on Boise City Council in 2019. During his first four years as a councilmember, he’s led efforts to adopt the 112-mile Pathways Masterplan, a Boise Vision Zero Plan to prevent traffic fatalities, a Pollinator Friendly Tree Resolution, and renter protections including prohibiting source of income discrimination. In 2023, he created Boise and ACHD’s first ever Traffic Fatality Review Board and played a major role in the adoption of the city’s Modern Zoning Code. “I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work with CCDC on a variety of transportation and public space projects during my time on Boise City Council and in the nonprofit sector,” said Hallyburton. “The work that has been accomplished has already been transformative for our community, and I am beyond excited to grow and expand my involvement. I am thankful to Mayor McLean and City Council for trusting me to continue to represent the City of Boise in this role.” CCDC is a public redevelopment agency that serves as a catalyst for quality private development through urban design, economic development and infrastructure investment. Commissioners are selected by the mayor and confirmed by the Boise City Council. With up to nine voting members, commissioners represent, as much as possible, the broad spectrum of people who enjoy all that Boise has to offer. ### Boise, Idaho – Bogus Basin announced today its move toward clean energy, with the installation of seventy-one 405-Watt solar panels on the roof of the Rental Shop. The solar panels installed are projected to generate at least 32 MWh of electricity annually, covering approximately 70% of the building’s annual energy needs, or the equivalent of powering about three homes per year. This should offset approximately 10 metric tons of CO2e each year, or enough to offset nearly 800 trips to Bogus Basin.
This is not the first solar installation project at the non-profit mountain recreation area. In 2004, a group of dedicated volunteers and community members came together to light 6.2 kilometers of Nordic trails at Bogus Basin. After twenty years of service, the system was no longer viable. That’s when the vision for a new, larger, and more sustainable solar-powered lighting system began to take shape. Alan Russell, a member of the Bogus Basin Board of Directors and Senior Engineer at Clēnera, connected the organization with the Boise-based renewable energy company, which would later generously donate solar panels for the project. Clēnera donated 210, Risen 405-W, solar panels and a 40 foot Conex Shipping container to house the solar panels, while the area prepares to install the remaining panels elsewhere on the mountain. In total, Clēnera donated over $55,000 in goods and services. “Partnering with Bogus Basin on this and future solar projects is exciting to me, both personally and professionally. Their dedication to improving the mountain as an accessible community resource perfectly aligns with Clēnera’s drive to make America’s solar resources accessible to homes across the country. I learned to ski at Bogus Basin and have been riding the mountain bike trails since they were built, so it is exciting to be a part of this project to make operations on the mountain more sustainable.” - Adam Pishl, Clēnera CEO and President EGT Solar, a Boise-based solar installation company, generously donated $10,000 in labor to install seventy-one solar panels on the Rental Shop. PLATT Electric provided much of the essential electrical wiring and hardware, with additional support from Codale and CED. Sungrow, a company partnered with Clēnera, contributed the system’s inverters — critical components for converting solar energy into usable power. The project was further supported by a $10,000 grant from the Wells Fargo Foundation to assist in advancing Bogus Basin’s ongoing sustainability efforts. “EGT Solar is honored to support Bogus Basin’s bold commitment to clean energy and sustainability.” - Rob Black, CEO of EGT Solar Commitment to Sustainability Bogus Basin joined the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) Climate Challenge in 2023 and maintains a strong focus on sustainability through reductions in waste and emissions. “We are committed to making measurable emissions reduction projects each year as well as investing in solutions to increase the mountain’s resiliency in the face of climate change.” Nate Collins, Sustainability and Stewardship Coordinator Previous Emissions reduction projects: Upgraded lighting in lodges to LED lighting and added occupancy sensors Developed a recycling and composting system for both guests and mountain operations Added Electric Snowmobiles to our machinery fleet Piloted a Renewable Diesel project Resiliency Projects: Snowmaking Forest health projects Native plant restoration Sustainability At Bogus Basin Future Solar Plans Bogus Basin is evaluating sites for the next phase of solar development. Potential sites include the Frontier Point Nordic Center, as well as the Pioneer Lodge. The team is also evaluating standalone arrays and off-grid systems to support mountain operations. “What’s really cool about this, and with many of our other sustainability projects, is how there are so many community partners involved. Our hope is to continue this community-based collaborative approach for future projects and welcome other organizations and volunteers who want to partner on the next phases.” - Nate Collins, Sustainability and Stewardship Coordinator The area invites sponsors, companies, community members, and volunteers interested in partnering on future solar or sustainability projects to contact the Sustainability and Stewardship team. “When organizations come together with shared values and a vision for the future, real progress happens — and our team is proud to have contributed time, resources, and expertise to be a part of that change. We look forward to building on this momentum and supporting Bogus Basin’s future solar initiatives.” - Rob Black, CEO of EGT Solar For more information, visit bogusbasin.org. About Bogus Basin Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area is a 501(C)(3) organization dedicated to engaging the community to provide accessible, affordable, and fun year-round mountain recreation and education. Opened in 1942, Bogus Basin offers 2,600 acres of daytime skiable terrain and 200 acres for night skiing, seven chairlifts and three people-mover carpets, and an 800-foot tubing hill. The Nordic Center offers 37 kilometers of groomed trails for skiing and snowshoeing. Environmental education and community outreach programs, primarily youth, serve over 20,000 individuals annually. Summer activities include The Glade Runner Mountain Coaster, The Mine Shaft Challenge Course, mountain biking, events, hiking and chairlift service for hike and bike transport. Bogus Basin is located 16.5 miles north of Boise, Idaho, and operates under a special use permit with the Boise National Forest. www.bogusbasin.org |
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