🌱 Boise's Infrastructure Future + Free Counseling + July 4th Parade

Hello all. It's me, Callie Cook, your host of the Boise Patch newsletter — here to impart all the most important things happening in town these days.

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Now, today's weather:

Mostly sunny and beautiful. High: 73 Low: 48.

From our sponsor:

Today’s Boise Patch newsletter is brought to you in part by T-Mobile. T-Mobile has invested billions to light up their best network ever, covering 99% of people in America with LTE, which helps to keep communities like ours informed and connected. We thank T-Mobile for their support and for making today’s Boise Patch newsletter possible.

Here are the top three stories in Boise today:

1. The recent hearings on Boise's zoning code rewrite highlighted the importance of density in city planning. Density refers to building more houses or businesses on a smaller footprint, which allows for more efficient use of existing infrastructure. Infill, the practice of building on empty lots or old developments, is seen as necessary due to limited available land. However, it is crucial to focus on targeted infill to avoid demolishing beloved spaces. The conservation of open spaces, such as Boise's foothills, is seen as critical to balance growth and protect the city's cherished qualities. (KTVB 7 News)
2. Central District Health and BPA Health have partnered to offer free counseling sessions through the Student and Family Assistance Program (SFAP) for students and families in the Kuna, West Ada, and Boise school districts. The program aims to expand mental health services by including all family members and addressing various issues such as academic pressures, substance abuse, emotional health, relationship skills, and more. Access to mental health resources during the summer, when it can be challenging to seek support, is a significant benefit for those in need. (Idaho 6 News)
3. The Idaho 4th of July parade will feature a grand display of flags, organized by Lynn Southam, to honor those who have served the country and emphasize the significance of the holiday. The parade will showcase unique flags representing various branches of the military, veteran organizations, and symbols of sacrifice, concluding with the casket flag as a tribute to those who paid the ultimate price for freedom. (Idaho 2 News)

Today in Boise:

Wednesday, June 21

• Alive After Five At Grove Plaza (5:00 PM)
• Live Music - The Black Tones At Downtown Boise Association (5:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• During a Monday night meeting, the nearby Nampa School Board of Trustees convened to address a policy that would forbid the teaching or discussion of gender identity or sexual identity within Nampa schools. The policy was approved with a three-to-one vote by the Board. (Boise State Public Radio via Facebook)
• There are plenty of activities and events happening in Boise this week, like the return of the Boise Music Festival on Jun. 24! You can see more events at the link. (Visit Boise via Facebook)
• Updates on the progress of The Park at Expo Idaho are being shared on the Ada County home page and through banners with QR codes along the Greenbelt behind the Expo Idaho property. Updates will continue to be provided as the plan evolves. (Ada County via Facebook)

Alrighty, you're all caught up for today! I'll see you back in your inbox tomorrow morning with a new update.

— Callie Cook

About me: Callie Cook is a Texas-based freelance writer and content creator with a degree in Sustainable Design, Landscape Design and Agribusiness from West Virginia University.