Eagle Magazine Sept/Oct 2023

WRITERS:

Anna Wilson

Natalia DiGiosia

Tia Markland-Crabtree

PHOTOGRAPHERS:

Tia Markland-Crabtree

Chris Cram

Angela Bucchino

DESIGNER: Angela Bucchino

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Eagle Magazine, Vol. 16, No. 3, is published 6 times a year by Idaho Media Publishing LLC, Po. Box 1878 Eagle, Idaho 83616. Copyright 2023, all rights reserved. Content of this publication is the copyright of Idaho Media Publishing LLC and/or respective copyright holders. Contents may not be reproduced in whole or in part without consent of the copyright owner. For subscription information please visit eaglemagazine. com. For editorial submissions please email em@eaglemagazine.com. For advertising, please email em@ eaglemagazine.com.

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, and the crisp, autumn breeze sweeps through Eagle, Idaho, we find ourselves embracing the beauty of fall in our charming town. In this season’s issue of Eagle Magazine, we invite you to revel in the wonders of this special time of year.

Perfect time of year to visit Blue Sky Farms with the harvest season, offering you the opportunity to pick your own flowers and immerse yourself in the rural charm. Stroll through retail shop adorned with candles, lotions, soaps, honeys, and unique merchandise, each a testament to our local artisans’ creativity.

Downtown Eagle is buzzing with development, and a visit to the historic State Street saloon unveils how our town is flourishing. If you’re a golf enthusiast, explore an in-depth feature on a local business dedicated to perfecting your swing, catering to golfers of all strokes.

Mark your calendars for the thrilling Plein Air Festival and the enchanting Eagle Art Walk. Discover a new startup, “How’s My Teen Driver,” committed to saving lives on our roads.

Don’t forget to schedule your holiday lighting with outdoor lights to illuminate Eagle during the festive season.

Tia Markland-Crabtree

A FLOURISHING FUTURE FOR DOWNTOWN EAGLE

Construction projects can bring both excitement and challenges to any community. In Eagle, the development on the corner of Eagle Road and Old State Street, known as The Gateway Project, is no exception. Megan Hoiosen, the owner of Sweet Tea Living and the ice cream shop, Scoops, shares her perspective on how the ongoing construction has affected her business and the efforts she and fellow shop owners have made to adapt.

THE GATEWAY PROJECT

THE PUSH + IMPACT TO MAKE DOWNTOWN EAGLE THRIVE

“Construction has definitely impacted us. We are down 25% from our normal years. When the restaurants closed and fences went up, we saw a decrease in our shoppers.” Megan’s sentiments are echoed by many small business owners in the area who have experienced a notable downturn in foot traffic and sales since the construction began.

What exactly is being built in this area? Josh Evarts, Development Manager for the project, shares that The Gateway Project will include ground level restaurants, office spaces, 3 retail outlets, 17 condominiums for sale, and a wine bar concept, all within a single three-story building. The Gateway Project is led by The Pacific Companies, a locally based development firm with extensive experience, in partnership with the Eagle Urban Renewal Agency. The development promises a transformative impact on Downtown Eagle.

Scheduled for completion in December 2024, the project’s vision aligns with the City of Eagle Comprehensive Plan and embraces guidelines from the Eagle’s Old Towne Planning Area. The project aims to create an open, inviting environment that promotes shopping, dining, and interaction among residents and visitors.

Tammie Halcomb, Economic Development Specialist at the City of Eagle, describes the City’s vision. “As we look to the future, we are confident that downtown’s development will be a symbol of our collective vision—a beacon of growth that shines brightly, attracting not only businesses and investors but also the hearts of those who call this city their home.”

BY NATALIA DiGIOSIA

Megan Hoiosen, owner Sweet Tea Living

The Gateway Project aims to create an open, inviting environment that promotes shopping, dining, and interaction among residents and visitors.

The Gateway Project will one day support this vision, but until the completion date, business owners and Eagle residents will face challenges to their typical routines. For example, many people are disappointed to find their local ice cream shop, Scoops, closed this summer. But Megan and her husband decided not to open for safety reasons, since the shop is so close to construction. With that uncertainty she shares “We’re not quite sure what will happen to that business.”

With these heavy challenges, Megan remains optimistic and recognizes the inevitability of growth and change. “We’re obviously not against change. Growth is going to happen,” she says. To tackle the challenges head-on, a group of business owners, including Megan, came together and put their creative minds to work. They designed a walking map to direct customers through the construction and showcase the businesses in the area. The map, available on shop counters, has become a great tool to bring shop owners together and promote their resilience during this phase.

Megan’s proactive approach also extends to fostering good relationships with the construction team and other stakeholders. “I decided to become friends with the builders next to us, because they will be our neighbors for two years. They have been great about letting me know what’s happening.” This relationship has proven invaluable as they keep her informed about construction updates and potential impacts on her business.

Megan has also become more involved with the City Council, speaking and advocating on behalf of the shops. “Small businesses are self-starters. Before owning this shop, I was a school teacher. Many of us are just figuring it out as we go!”

One major concern that Megan and other business owners share is the issue of parking. As the area undergoes significant growth, the demand for parking spaces increases. Megan wonders how the City will manage this aspect to ensure that businesses can thrive despite potential parking challenges.

The most important thing people should remember is to continue coming to Downtown Eagle. Bike, drive, and walk in to visit shops even when the roads are closed. While challenges exist during this period of growth and construction, the determination and resilience of business owners like Megan Hoiosen, along with the city’s efforts to communicate and support local businesses, will undoubtedly contribute to a flourishing future for Downtown Eagle.

As The Gateway Project reaches its completion in December 2024, the community can look forward to a vibrant and thriving downtown area, enriched by its unique charm and the spirit of collaboration that defines Eagle.

Blue Sky Farms, family owned and operated by Betty Dryden and Lauren Allen, has become a popular flower farm for people from all over to make friends, pick flowers, and enjoy Idaho for what it is: a diverse and beautiful state, full of opportunities.

Lauren and Betty purchased the property back in 2017, unsure of what they were going to do with it. “We knew we wanted to name the property Blue Sky Farm after realizing how beautifully blue the sky is here in Idaho,” Lauren says. “We started to explore Idaho in the summer of 2017 and fell in love with the idea of growing cut flowers.” After purchasing honey bees and seeds, the research began. “Both my mom and I have a background in education and knew absolutely nothing about growing cut flowers so lots of research and many books were purchased in the process!” Lauren explains. After much research, Blue Sky’s first season was in Summer of 2021.

Blue Sky Farm

A YOU-PICK FLOWER HAVEN

Although Blue Sky Farm’s main attraction is their gorgeous selection of ‘you-pick’ flowers, they have so much more to offer. Candles, lotions, soaps, honey, merchandise, and produce, along with friendships and happiness, can also be found every time you visit Blue Sky Farm. Betty and Lauren love owning Blue Sky Farm, but sometimes it’s not easy. Lauren says, “It’s not a glamorous job - Lots of research, time spent in the green house, getting your hands dirty, keeping up with weeds, and battling with weather, bugs, and pests.” Although it is hard work, all of it is worth the smiles seen at Blue Sky Farm as people come and go with their jars full of flowers.

Both Betty and Lauren love living in Eagle. They have noticed how much the community loves to support small businesses, and they know that they can thank the wonderful Eagle community for its love and support. “Eagle is growing substantially and it’s great to know that we offer a space for our growing city to enjoy,” Lauren says. “There are lots of restaurants, parks, and markets - However, as our community grows, people are looking for more family activities to do and our farm offers that. Families can also book photo sessions online.” Starting September 1st you can get two candles, pick flowers, and get a photos session for $100.

Over the years, the connections made, friendships formed, and the flowers grown are what makes Blue Sky Farm a home for so many. Lauren and Betty strive to make Blue Sky Farm somewhere peaceful that everyone can enjoy. “There are many wonderful you-pick cut flower farms around the treasure valley, but what is unique about Blue Sky Farm is when you arrive at our home - you are treated like family,” Lauren says. There is always something special about being greeted with a hello and a kind smile, and you’re guaranteed that at Blue Sky Farm. The flowers at Blue Sky Farm are grown with a couple extra ounces of love and care, and that love and care is passed on to those who pick them. As Luther Burbank once said, “Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food, and medicine to the soul.”

Check out their fall collection and collect flowers for dried bouquet table settings, wreaths and more.

Located on 2685 N Haven Drive in Eagle, Idaho. Visit blueskyfarmidaho.com for more information.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELA BUCCHINO

Art Season

in Eagle

COLOR IN MOTION EAGLE ART WALK PLEIN AIR FESTIVAL

Eagle, Idaho is bursting with colorful art events throughout late summer and fall. Hosted by Finer Frames, local merchants, and artists organizations in Idaho, Downtown Eagle will have plenty of art–i-ful activities this season.

BY NATALIA DIGIOSIA

COLOR IN MOTION: Idaho Watercolor Society SW Regional Show | Starts Aug 31

The Colors in Motion exhibit, hosted by Finer Frames, is a dazzling collection of 44 original watercolor paintings by talented members of the Idaho Watercolor Society. As you step into Finer Frames on August 31st for the opening reception, you’ll be surrounded by a mix of paintings done by local and regional Idaho artists. The show is open through the end of September. The reception runs 5–8pm and is open to the public.

EAGLE ART WALK

Thurs Sept 28 | 5:00 pm–8:00 pm

Heritage Park during the Eagle Art Walk. Seek hidden treasure and try to find one of the 10 hand blown glass treasures hidden along State Street. They could be in or outside a business. If you find a treasure, share it on @eagleartwalk Instagram with #eagleartwalk.

EAGLE PLEIN AIR FESTIVAL

Oct 7–14

The Eagle Plein Air Festival, now in its 9th year, attracts painters from all over North America to embrace the “not-so-simple” art of painting outdoors. Plein air, a French expression meaning “into the open air,” adds an element of unpredictability and excitement to the festival. With paint outs, free art demonstrations, competitions, and the final show and sale, the festival is a diverse artistic experience. Every day there’s a different destination to go watch artists. Bring a folding chair, take free art classes and watch demonstrations held outside at Finer Frames from 11 am–1 pm everyday.

CLOSING RECEPTION

Friday Oct 13 | 5:00 pm–8:00 pm

Wrapping up the Plein Air Festival, all 300 paintings will be on display at Finer Frames. Come enjoy the free awards receptions with catered food, live jazz music, and see which paintings won top awards. The Plein Air Festival ends on Saturday the 14th with the final show and sale, colliding with the Eagle Harvest Festival from 10 am–4 pm at Heritage Park the same day.

STATE STREET QUICK DRAW

Oct 7 | 10:00 am–12:00 pm

Kick-starting the Eagle Plein Air Festival on October 7th, the State Street Quick Draw challenges painters to a timed competition right in Downtown Eagle. In just two hours, they must create art that captures the essence of the surroundings. As you watch these artists at work, enjoy live music courtesy of the Eagle Saturday Market at Heritage Park. Paintings will be hung outside of Finer Frames and will be awarded 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place.

For more information on the Plein Air Festival schedule of events, visit www.eaglepleinair.com/

“DON’T MISS OUT! IT’S GENUINELY A ONE-OF-A-KIND EXPERIENCE THAT YOU CAN’T GET ANYWHERE ELSE.”

-Meg Glasgow, Festival Founder

-Stephen

EMBRACING AI

Over the last few years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has paved the way for technology to advance in ways we never imagined it would. It has allowed us to cross bridges to new worlds regarding healthcare, education, sports, automotive, and so much more. Did society have any idea that a robot could give an accurate patient diagnosis in a matter of minutes? Or that teachers would be able to use AI to help them create a better learning environment for students? All of these questions are receiving real answers as we continue to revolutionize AI technology, and it’s time to embrace it.

AI is changing the education system as we know it. AI can generate personalized learning reports for each student, which allows the teacher to receive feedback that can help them better their teaching styles. AI also allows students to be able to speak up in a classroom discussion without the fear of being judged by their peers. AI can also be used to detect plagiarism, and ensure exam integrity. However, Liza Long an English professor at the College of Western Idaho who has embraced AI in her classroom, still has a few concerns. “If we use generative artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT to augment intelligence, that’s great,” Long told me. “But if we start using them to replace intelligence, we will all be in trouble.”

Long notes that AI also has issues, including hallucination. “It is very confident when it makes stuff up,” Long said. In her summer World Mythology course, she created a quick video demonstration of ChatGPT for students with

one of the technical questions they would discuss in the course. “ChatGPT got it wrong,” she laughed. “I warned the students that I knew the answer was wrong because I have spent a lot of time and work learning this information. They need to think about why they are really in school–to get a quick credential, or to actually learn.” Long stressed that instructors need to prepare students for how AI tools will be used in the workplace. “We already have a major for anyone who wants to become a prompt engineer,” she said. “It’s called philosophy.” Prompt engineering is the process of structuring text that can be interpreted and understood by a generative AI model.

AI has been changing the game of professional sports as well. According to Imaginovation Insider, “Statistics show the AI segment in the sports industry will reach a value of $19.2 billion by 2030.” Many professional leagues, including the MLB, NBA, and NFL, have all started to use AI to improve scouting reports, improve player performance, and make strategic decisions on the court or field. AI also helps create personalized training plans for athletes in order to reduce injury and increase player performance. AI isn’t just helping out the players, either. Recently, AI is being used to create a more immersive fan experience by creating Virtual Reality to help fans feel even more like they’re in the game. The LA Dodgers are using facial recognition AI to help fans find their seats, making the process easier and less stressful for everyone.

continued

BY ANNA WILSON

“LIBERAL ARTS AND PHILOSOPHY WILL BE THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS TO MAJOR IN NOW THAT WE HAVE GENERATIVE AI.”

Wolfram, Mathematica Founder

Local sports photographer, Mark Rezansoff, specializing in team and individual photos for a variety of local teams uses AI in day-to-day operations. “I increasingly rely on AI to enhance various aspects of my business. AI is instrumental in improving my email communication, generating social media captions, transcribing spoken words, utilizing optical character recognition (OCR), and analyzing sales data. Moreover, I’ve found AI to be an invaluable resource when I need programming assistance, summarizing YouTube videos.” Mark creates podcasts and use AI to generate interview questions, summarizing podcasts for social media posts, and even generating questions for coach intake forms. Leveraging AI has revolutionized the efficiency and versatility of his business, and he’s discovering new ways to integrate this technology into workflows.

AI is also becoming increasingly more popular in the marketing industry. For example, Kenneth Brooks, owner of the Boise Tech startup, AdPrompt.ai explains that “A brands first-party data can be used to understand customers preferences and shopping habits, deploy AI-powered chatbots on the website or app to answer common queries, assist with shopping, and provide immediate responses, thus improving customer service efficiency. Inventory, price management, in-store experiences, and preventing fraud are ways to utilize AI.”

AI will continue to build new bridges and pave new roads to even more advanced technology in the years to come. It’s important to state that AI is uncharted territory, with debates on its usage of power. Generative AI is predicted to use 8-21% of the world’s total energy output by 2030. Climate change, anyone? These tools are energy vampires. Just like bitcoin. We are still climbing the mountain to what AI can ultimately become and how it can help. Using AI, we may find ways to solve climate change and explore galaxies beyond our own solar system. Either way, embracing our future and the technology we have created is how we continue to make our world a better place.

LUMINAIRE SMART HOMES

EAGLE RESIDENT DAVID FOSTER TALKS SMART HOMES AND AI

David Foster’s journey into the Smart Home Business began as a commercial electrician in Seattle back in the late 90’s. In 2006, he founded Luminaire, initially an electrical contracting company, with a strong focus on lighting design and control. Despite the challenges of the 2008 economic downturn, David’s career took

a fortunate turn when he was approached by a major Home Technology company in Seattle. This experience expanded his expertise in technology and integrated systems, including home automation, lighting control, HiFi audio systems, and much more.

As a Systems Integrator, Luminaire specializes in designing and building Smart Homes and Home Theater systems, covering a wide range of services. This includes interior and exterior lighting control systems, home theater systems, HiFi audio, network systems, security and camera systems, and comprehensive whole-home control. Luminaire boasts a stellar reputation, backed by numerous 5-star Google reviews, and David is happy to provide testimonials from satisfied clients upon request.

David acknowledges AI’s significance and the transformative impact it’s having and will continue to have globally. Luminaire has already integrated AI in various aspects, such as SEO, social media, and design. David sees AI’s potential in streamlining programming tasks and recognizes both the excitement and concerns associated with this technology. They approach new technology with cautious optimism, aiming to harness its benefits while considering potential risks.

In terms of the latest automation trends, Luminaire’s showroom at 4464 W Chinden Blvd showcases a ton of cutting-edge technology.

Notable examples include Control4 home automation systems, which give the homeowner the ability to control every system of their home or office. Short-throw projectors are also trending, as they offer large 4K viewing screens without compromising space or quality. Automated shades from Lutron are a quiet and elegant way to control light and ambiance in home or office settings. Luminaire is also Idaho’s exclusive KEF loudspeaker elite dealer, offering revolutionary speaker technology that often leaves visitors amazed.

The company stays updated on evolving trends in the rapidly changing tech market to provide Boise clients with the best options. David’s philosophy centers on integrating timeless tech and AV equipment with the latest network and control systems. To truly understand the experience, call to schedule a visit or drop by to experience what is possible in your home for yourself! More information is available on the company website at boisesmarthomes.com.

ALLSTROKES GOLF CLUB

ELEVATE YOUR GOLF EXPERIENCE

The traditional green golf course has some competition. In fact, virtual golf can be even more inclusive to all people and levels.

ALLSTROKES Golf Club is a simulator-based golf facility in Eagle, Idaho.

“Our whole mission is to engage experienced golfers and people who have never played before, in an inclusive atmosphere,” said Gavin Christensen, co-owner of ALLSTROKES. Christensen found his love for the sport growing up on a golf cart with his grandfather in Idaho. Then in March of 2023, he opened ALLSTROKES as a family-friendly place with co-owners Brian Ehlert and Amy Christensen.

“As a new business in Eagle, our priority is to familiarize people with the idea. The technology is not what most people think, assuming the stimulator is like a video game. But the reality is that the software is so advanced, it feels very similar to real golf.”

ALLSTROKES uses the TrackMan Golf catalog, offering over 200 virtual golf courses from around the world. Virtual golf has more benefits than one would expect. Christensen explains, “For folks new to golf, they can experience golf in a less intimidating way. For those who are more experienced, it allows them to dig deeper into the science behind their swing, and see how they can improve it at a better and faster rate.”

Another plus is the 24/7, 365 days a year access to their club, located off Eagle Road and Chinden. From the blasting heat of summer to cold Idaho winters, ALLSTROKES is always open to members. Their facility includes three bays that are full scale driving ranges. The fourth is a putting simulator that oscillates and gives different degrees of slope to practice putting even in the wintertime.

“We are always coming up with creative ways to engage the community,” said Christensen. ALLSTROKES offers both competitive and non-intimidating leagues for all kinds of players. Held once a week, the Head-to-Head League is for members wanting to play in person against someone new. The more indirect league happens once a month when members can simply submit their scores to win prizes.

“We want ALLSTROKES to be a fun place where everyone can enjoy the game.”

Whether that’s the high school golfer practicing after school, or older generations who taught Christensen how to swing, “ALLSTROKES is inclusive to all backgrounds, ages, and families. Golf is a good platform for us to connect and ALLSTROKES is a fun venue just for that.”

For more information and membership details, visit their website: allstrokesgolfclub.com

BY NATALIA DiGIOSIA

“WE WANT ALLSTROKES TO BE A FUN PLACE WHERE EVERYONE CAN ENJOY THE GAME.”

-Gavin Christensen, Co-Owner

an insider ’ s guide

Idaho is well known for its vast mountain ranges, beautiful green forests, and amazing lakes and rivers. It’s also known for the wide variety of trails that lead people from all over to explore this wonderful state. From flat paved trails along the greenbelt to gently sloping hills to mountainous climbs, Idaho offers so many amazing sights to see, and it’s important to know what you’re getting yourself into when you decide to explore.

There are all different kinds of trails with all different levels of difficulty, elevation, distance, scenery, or even the necessary route to find the trail. Although she is no expert, Renee Wilson, a local Idahoan and avid trail hiker, has experience with many of the trails here in Idaho. Many of the trails she has hiked vary in all different aspects. Cervidae Peak, a part of Boise’s 4 “Grand Slam” peaks, is a steep trail rising just over Lucky Peak, east of Boise. Chamberlain Basin, a hike located in the White Cloud Mountains in the Sawtooth National Recreation area, is a gorgeous 18 mile out and back trail. It begins at the Fourth of July Creek Trailhead, and is perfect for those who are looking for a bit of a challenge. Lastly, at an elevation gain of 1,842 feet and a distance of 14.6 miles, Edith Lake and the Sand Mountain Pass trail is located in the Sawtooth Mountains. Slightly less challenging than Chamberlain Basin, this hike is beautiful and perfect for intermediate hikers.

While hiking is meant to be a fun activity that allows you to connect with nature, it is always important to make safety a number one priority.

Knowing where you’re going, what dangers you could potentially face, and having a plan is extremely important. “I tend to avoid extended off trail hiking or poorly maintained trails to reduce my risk of injury or getting lost. I admire those who do, but I think it’s important to know and respect your personal physical limits and comfort level when hiking,” Renee says. Researching trails before you explore them is a vital part of the process, and that’s where finding trustworthy resources comes in.

There are countless books, apps, and websites that allow anyone to find the perfect trail they’re looking for. Boise’s Ridges to Rivers website is a great resource for navigating through the extensive trail systems of the Boise Foothills. Renee suggests guidebooks written by Scott Marchant. These books are readily available at local bookstores and sporting goods stores. His books include trail rating (easy/moderate/ strenuous) along with detailed trail descriptions, accurate mileage and directions to get there. Another helpful resource is the AllTrails app, which helps you discover trails right from your phone.

Being outdoors allows one to connect with nature and escape the stresses of daily life. Hiking is the perfect way to destress and exercise, and what better way to do that than explore some of the wonderful trails right here in our very own Gem State.

BY ANNA WILSON

Left: Chamberlain Basin

Top right: Cervidae Peak

Bottom right: Edith Lake and the Sand Mountain Pass

EAGLE’S NEW WATERING HOLE

OLD STATE SALOON

BY NATALIA DiGIOSIA

Interview with Old State Saloon owner, Mark Fitzpatrick

“IT’S A REAL BLESSING THAT WE CAN TAKE A PIECE OF HISTORY AND USE IT AGAIN FOR AN AWESOME PURPOSE.”

-Mark Fitzpatrick, owner

Within the rustic Orville Jackson Building made in 1906, is the newly renovated Old State Saloon. With fresh paint, a 20-tap draft beer system, an antique refrigerator cabinet from England, a classical black piano, and new sound systems, the Saloon is a charming watering hole for the Eagle community that preserves the town’s history.

Mark Fitzpatrick, owner of the Old State Saloon, reflects on the building’s history. “I always get people telling me they remember coming in as a kid and buying candy or bubble gum,” he shares. The building started as a general store and drugstore, then transitioned into a furniture shop, a dance lesson studio, then an entertainment venue. “It’s a real blessing that we can take a piece of history and use it again for an awesome purpose,” says Fitzpatrick.

Owning the Old State Saloon wasn’t Fitzpatrick’s original plan. He needed to purchase a licensed bar to provide services for his wedding and events company, Stone Crossing. “But when the previous owner, Bill, said he was interested in selling, I realized this was more than just a bar,” Fitzpatrick shares. Instead of the bar simply fulfilling needs for event services, “we decided to pour our heart and soul into making it a great place for the community to enjoy.”

In the renovation, Fitzpatrick preserved the iconic exterior of the building, while improving the interior design with new flooring, paint, and a revamped bar. The dedication to live music is clear, with investments exceeding $100,000 benefiting

local musicians. Intriguingly, Fitzpatrick describes how layers of the wall were peeled off to reveal an original door from 1906. The old door will be repositioned in the back area where Fitzpatrick plans to expand into a full kitchen and steakhouse.

“I wish I could snap my fingers and have it all completed today, but we will have to be patient as we’ve decided to do something much bigger than originally intended,” he shares. The long-term plan is to build a new rear of the building for a kitchen and restaurant space, all the while matching the historical character. As a temporary solution, patrons will soon be able to order from a “bar food” menu with a handful of selections of healthy and well-prepared food.

In addition to evening social hours, Old State Saloon is a full coffeehouse in the morning, starting at 6 am, 7 days a week. “We desire to be a place where you can join your Bible study group in the morning for coffee and take your spouse out dancing in the evening while meeting great people and making new friends,” says Fitzpatrick.

In the afternoon the scene transitions to a saloon. Whether it be live music, jazz nights, Trivia on Wednesdays hosted by Fitzpatrick and his wife, karaoke events on Sundays, or line dancing lessons, Old State Saloon is a place where good people can come to have a good time while enjoying local beverages and food. As a retired police officer,

Mark Fitzpatrick, owner

Fitzpatrick shares, “I want people to enjoy the beverages in a way that’s responsible, in a way it’s intended for camaraderie and celebration.” The Old State Saloon is becoming a community social hub, holding similar value to its role as a general store a hundred years ago.

Fitzpatrick admits, “The times I feel the most rewarded is when I look across the room and see people meeting people and they’re engaging in conversations. It’s exactly what I was hoping it would be.” This August, Old State Saloon celebrates six months in business and plans for many years to come.

Old State Saloon, 50 E State St, Eagle. For hours and full event schedule visit oldstatesaloon.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS CRAM

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR HOLIDAY LIGHTING

Choose the Right Holiday Lighting

As the holiday season approaches, homeowners face a pivotal decision – invest in the enduring elegance of permanent roofline lighting or opt for the traditional charm of temporary Christmas lights. Each option has their advantages and trade-offs.

Permanent Roofline Lighting: Lasting Allure

Permanent roofline lighting provides a year-round solution for every holiday. Colors and patterns are controlled by an app on your phone and provide you with a wide variety of preset color and pattern choices for each holiday season. Between holidays, a soft white setting can bring light to your home. These lights are built to withstand harsh Idaho weather and offer a consistent, inviting glow for years.

Temporary Christmas Lights:

Flexible Charm

Temporary Christmas lights, often called string lights, offer a lower-cost, flexible, and convenient way to decorate for the holidays. These lights are hung along the roofline, tracing your home’s contours and creating a warm ambiance. They can also be placed on other features of the home and landscaping. While easy to install and some variety of color patterns are available, they are temporary and generally cannot be programmed beyond turning on and off.

Making the Decision

Ultimately, the goal is to create a welcoming and festive atmosphere that brings joy to your home and those who pass by during the holiday season and beyond.

To explore these options further and make an informed decision, call Bill with Outdoor Lighting Perspectives at 208-600-1191, or go to outdoorlights.com/boise for your free consultation.

100-Year Old Artist Inspires Community

Wow, Jeanne Ambrose’s journey as a local artist and the way she used her beautiful artwork to start a ministry is truly inspiring. Her dedication to her craft and the support she offers to her community is remarkable, especially considering the challenging circumstances she faced with her husband’s Alzheimer’s. Her oil-on-canvas creations are diverse and skillfully done, ranging from birds and landscapes to barn houses and flowers. Turning 100 in September is a significant milestone, and one to be admired.

Jeanne’s story is a testament to the power of art and human connection. Even though she might not fully realize the impact of her work, her Christmas list’s growth and the popularity of her artwork on cards show how much her creations mean to others. Her ability to offer hope and inspiration through her art, especially during challenging times, is a beautiful way of touching people’s lives. It’s incredible how she began

her artistic journey at 85 and found solace in creativity while dealing with her husband’s illness. Her humility and dedication shine through in her story. “As an art teacher in Temecula, where I lived in Independent Living, I thought that I should paint to divert my attention to something other than my husband’s illness,” informs Jeanne.

In August, Jeanne was part of an art show at Revel Eagle, a dynamic independent living community in Eagle ID. Events like these that showcase the talents of senior artists highlight the creativity and vitality that can thrive across generations. The art show’s open nature offers the community a chance to appreciate the artistic contributions of individuals like Jeanne, showcasing the incredible things the older generation can achieve. It’s inspiring to see their talents being celebrated.

BY TIA MARKLAND-CRABTREE

HOW’S MY TEEN DRIVER?

An Eagle Idaho start-up. Get on board.

Auto accidents are the number one top cause of death for teens in the United States (NHTSA). How’s My Teen Driver (HMTD), a company founded by two fathers from Eagle, who both have driving aged teens, has emerged with a mission to empower teenagers to become responsible drivers.

How does HMTD work? Parents subscribe to the HMTD program and register their teen’s vehicle in their database. Subscribers will receive an Enrollment Kit in the mail which includes stickers and a QR code to be placed on the teen’s vehicle. Parents who enroll their teens into the HMTD network receive real time, community-sourced information on their teen’s driving habits. Reports are made anonymously via telephone or through the HMTD website.

How’s My Teen Driver believes in the principle that visibility can help prevent unnecessary accidents and deaths. The visibility of the HMTD sticker on a teen’s vehicle is a simple way to tell the community when to take extra precautions, give more space, or pay closer attention.

Teens themselves are onboard with the concept. Sydney and Autumn, two teenagers in Eagle, Idaho are planning on signing up for the program after finishing driver’s ed. Sydney shares, “I’m nervous about driving. When my mom mentioned a QR Code that would help monitor mine and other kids’ driving, I felt safer. We watched some pretty scary videos in driver’s ed.” Autumn adds on, “I’m a good driver. I scored pretty high, but that’s because I’ve been driving on the farm since I was ten. My classmates, however, didn’t have that advantage. Anything that helps us stay accountable is good.”

The app offers a sense of security and encourages responsible driving practices that make parents feel at ease too. One 5-star review from a parent says, “This is an amazing product. Knowing that there are multiple sets of eyes on my teen driver, along with a place to report their driving behavior, gives me peace of mind. You can never be too safe with your kids.”

BY NATALIA DiGIOSIA

-Parent of a teen driver

“You can never be too safe with your kids.”

Founder Matt Carter, co-founder Andrew Fullmer, and chief operations officer Cyndi Pham are committed to the cause. Fullmer says, “Having a visual cue that activates and empowers the Road Guardian network can help save lives in a way that the most advanced technology can’t because there is no replacement for watchful eyes.”

Their team is already talking with big players such as IndyCar 500, MLB, Amazon, YouTubers, and national publications to help spread the message about this teen driving movement. This Eagle based company’s unique approach has attracted supporters who are passionate about its cause-driven nature.

Visit howsmyteendriver.com to enroll.