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 Meridian, Idaho -- Harris, a trusted name in Idaho for decades, is proud to announce that it will officially become
Sorren this May. As the founding firm behind this new national brand, Harris is taking a bold step forward — not by joining someone else’s story, but by helping write a new one. In 2024, Idaho firms KDP and Chigbrow Ryan Murata, Chtd. (CRM) joined Harris in its vision for Sorren. Sorren is a brand new, Top 50 accounting & advisory firm that was created by leaders from respected, like-minded firms from across the country who saw the opportunity to build something better: a national firm rooted in local values, designed to better serve growing businesses and evolving industries. “The Treasure Valley business community is growing more sophisticated and facing more complex challenges,” said Josh Tyree, President of Harris. “By coming together as Sorren, we’re strengthening our ability to meet those challenges with deeper expertise, expanded services, and smarter solutions — all while staying rooted here in Idaho.” Under Sorren, Tyree will remain in the role of President. With more than 1,000 professionals across 20 offices nationwide, Sorren combines the reach and resources of a national firm with the relationships and responsiveness of a local one. Idaho businesses will benefit from:
The name Sorren blends the meanings of “master of craft” and “coming together as one” — a reflection of the shared values and collaborative spirit that brought these firms together. As Sorren President, Tyree will guide the firm’s strategic direction. Cheryl Guiddy has stepped into the role of Chief Practice Officer, leading the firm’s national service lines. Robert Shappee will serve as National Partner of Strategic Projects, and Windi Martin is the firm’s new Partner-in-Charge, overseeing the Treasure Valley offices. “We’ve always been proud to support Idaho’s business community. Now, we’re even better equipped to help it thrive,” said Martin. “This isn’t just about growth for growth’s sake – it’s about combining our strengths to deliver smarter solutions, deeper insights, and more strategic guidance, all without sacrificing the local relationships and personal service that our firm is built upon.” Founded in 1996, Harris has been dedicated to delivering high-quality professional services to clients throughout the United States. Over the past few years, Harris has experienced significant growth, expanding to six offices across Idaho, including Boise, Meridian, Twin Falls, Buhl, Ketchum, and Coeur d'Alene. Today, Harris stands as one of the largest Idaho-based public accounting firms, serving clients through all stages of the business cycle. KDP is based in Medford, Oregon and has a rich history dating back to 1976, offering professional tax, audit, advisory, valuation, and wealth services. The firm has continued to expand through the years, and in 2021, merged with Whittaker & Associates, Inc. in Boise, Idaho, extending the firm’s footprint to Idaho. In 2024, Price Fronk & Co. from Bend, Oregon merged with KDP to expand the firm's regional presence in Oregon. KDP merged with Harris in 2024. Chigbrow Ryan Murata's history dates back to 1985, founded by Royce Chigbrow. Brad Ryan and Cordell Chigbrow became partners in 2000, evolving the firm into Chigbrow, Ryan & Company. Jerod Murata, previous partner of an Idaho firm and several from his team joined in 2019, prompting the transition to Chigbrow Ryan Murata, Chtd. Known for its deep Idaho roots and strong client relationships, CRM merged with Harris in 2024 to expand its reach and capabilities. BOISE, ID – April 23, 2025 – Walmart is proud to deepen its commitment to Idaho by investing in local stores,
empowering associates and enriching the communities it serves every day. Today, Walmart unveiled details of two planned store remodels this year in Idaho and new investments focused on enhancing the associate experience and community engagement. These initiatives underscore Walmart’s goal of being Idaho’s favorite place to shop. "Our stores often serve as the heartbeat of the communities we operate in, and these remodels are a testament to our dedication to enhancing that role,” said Walmart Sr. Vice President and West U.S. Business Operations Lead Jay Cordray. “By investing in our stores and associates, we are not only improving the shopping experience but also reinforcing our commitment to being a vital part of the community’s fabric, helping to build a brighter future for all.” Investing in a New Store Experience: 2025 Walmart Remodels in Idaho This year, Walmart has set an ambitious goal to remodel more than 650 stores across the U.S., including two stores in Idaho. Prior to 2025, Walmart has invested $169.5 million (M) to upgrade stores throughout Idaho in the past five years. We’re re-imagining the in-store shopping experience with updates throughout the store, including:
Investing in Idaho Associates: Unlimited Career Opportunities Close to Home With 27 retail units, Walmart employs more than 9,100 associates in Idaho and this month was named as one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® and LinkedIn’s Top Companies for 2025. Whether coming for a job or staying for a career, associates have opportunities to build skills, gain experience, grow their earnings and use industry-leading benefits to help them flourish in both their personal and professional lives. Walmart is proud to announce the following:
All Walmart associates have access to company-paid skills certificates and college degrees through Live Better U, paid time off, medical plans, 20 no-cost therapy sessions, 401k and associate stock purchase plans, both with a company match, associate discounts, a free Walmart+ membership and more. Investing in Idaho Communities: Helping our Neighbors Being part of the community means making investments that support and enrich the entire community. The company plays an active role in lifting up communities and helping those in need through local giving, company-paid associate volunteering, emergency relief efforts when disaster strikes and supporting local manufacturing. Walmart, the Walmart Foundation and Sam’s Club invested in Idaho in the following ways:
Washington, D.C.--Access to affordable housing remains one of the most pressing issues affecting both employees and employers across Idaho. Today, U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) launched a housing survey across the state of Idaho to solicit feedback from homeowners, renters, insurance brokers, bankers, realtors, government officials and general contractors. Information provided in the survey will help inform Senator Crapo of common issues where legislation may be considered. “A lack of affordable housing is the number one issue Idahoans raise with my staff and me in meetings across the State,” said Crapo. “Idaho is far from alone in this nationwide challenge, but Idahoans can be a key part in piecing together the housing puzzle as I continue to work to find collaborative solutions to this issue. I invite any Idahoan to complete the survey and share as much detail as they are willing and able to provide.” The housing survey follows the model of Senator Crapo’s veterans’ surveys from 2014 and 2015 that ultimately resulted in legislation Senator Crapo introduced being signed into law. The survey is available on Senator Crapo’s official website at https://www.crapo.senate.gov/issues/affordable-housing-survey, or at the QR code at the bottom of this release. Flyers with the QR code can be picked up at any of Crapo’s Idaho regional offices, listed below. At the conclusion of the survey, data will be aggregated and released into a final report available to the public. No personally identifiable information will be included in the final report and responses will ensure anonymity. The housing survey will run through May 31, 2025.
Dear friends,
We can all remember being a high school senior ready to move on from childhood into the freedom of adulthood. It is a milestone that comes with much excitement but also apprehension about the future. We are fortunate our state and our country offer so many different paths for our young people to choose as they enter an independent stage of life. Here in Idaho, we are making the transition into rewarding, productive careers even smoother with Idaho LAUNCH. Our innovative new workforce training program is connecting students with careers and helping employers like you fill in-demand jobs that create prosperity and strengthen our economy. There is no doubt Idaho LAUNCH has been tremendously successful. Here’s a snapshot of how LAUNCH moved the needle in just one year:
That last statistic really hits home for me. We have so many bright young Idahoans who offer much promise for our state but who simply don’t perform as well in traditional academics, resulting in lower GPAs. These students have as much to offer as a 4.0 student. Idaho LAUNCH is motivating those students to go on to training programs for jobs our business community desperately needs. I can say with confidence that Idaho LAUNCH is changing lives. Together, we are ensuring Idaho kids STAY in Idaho. We have you, our business community, to thank in part for that. I appreciate the strong support we’ve received from Idaho employers on Idaho LAUNCH. With your help, we have been able to pioneer new workforce training strategies that are clearly WORKING! Brad Little Governor of Idaho WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Jim Risch, senior member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, announced the selection of the Stagecoach Inn in Garden City as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for February 2025. The Stagecoach Inn will be recognized for its contribution to the community in the Congressional Record of the U.S. Senate.
“The Stagecoach Inn has been a feature of Idaho’s political and social landscape for decades,” said Risch. “This Treasure Valley institution has been around since 1959 and is now owned by Wanda Martinat and Fred and Francie Oliver. I’m proud to recognize the Stagecoach Inn as the February Small Business of the Month." Idaho is consistently ranked one of the best places in the country to do business. Each month, Senator Risch selects an Idaho small business that exemplifies the Idaho values of hard work, entrepreneurial spirit, and exceptional commitment to the community. |
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