🌱 Wildland Firefighter Day + First Federal Bank & BSU Athletics

Good morning, everybody! It's me, Callie Cook, your host of the Boise Patch newsletter — back in your inbox with everything that's fit to print about what's happening in town these days.

But first, today's weather:

Mostly sunny and nice. High: 83 Low: 58.

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Here are the top three stories today in Boise:

1. Governor Brad Little has designated Jul. 2 as Idaho Wildland Firefighter Day to honor and recognize the efforts of Idaho's wildland firefighters. The proclamation acknowledges the crucial role these firefighters play in safeguarding the vast expanse of private, state, and federal lands in Idaho, totaling over nine million acres. Last year, Idaho's wildland firefighters successfully battled 287 wildfires, containing 92 percent of them to 10 acres or less. (Idaho 2 News)
2. First Federal Bank has forged a partnership with Boise State University athletics and Learfield's Bronco sports properties, aiming to boost its visibility and reputation in Idaho. Through a multi-year sponsorship agreement beginning on Jul. 1, First Federal Bank will enjoy several advantages as part of the Broncos' corporate partner family. Notably, the bank will hold the role of presenting sponsor for Boise State Football's annual spring game and will have its brand prominently featured across various platforms throughout the athletic year, encompassing in-venue promotions, digital exposure, social media presence, and radio advertising. (KMVT 11)
3. The neighboring Garden City Council has granted approval for the redevelopment of the River Club golf course, situated along State Street. The project, spearheaded by Texas real estate developer Lincoln Property, entails transforming the golf property into a multi-story apartment and retail complex while preserving a reconfigured golf course on the southwestern portion along the Boise River. The redevelopment, estimated to cost $250 million, will feature approximately 750 housing units, up to 30,000 square feet of commercial space, and walking paths connecting the development to a bus stop. (Yahoo! News)

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Today in Boise:

Wednesday, June 28

• Kelsea Ballerini At Idaho Botanical Garden (7:00 PM)
• Open Mic Night At O'Michaels Pub & Grill (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Discover the health advantages of St. John's Wort and help eradicate this invasive plant at an upcoming volunteer event on Thursday, Jun. 29. While St. John's Wort is classified as a noxious weed in Idaho, it also possesses medicinal properties beneficial for various health conditions. In collaboration with The Vervain Collective and Boise Parks and Recreation, the cultivation will begin at 6:00 p.m. at the Jim Hall Foothills Learning Center. You can register here. (Boise Parks and Recreation via Facebook)
• The Idaho Commission on the Arts, in collaboration with Boise State University's Albertsons Library, is hosting an exhibit titled "Idaho Folklife: Rosalie Sorrels' Legacy," dedicated to the renowned folk singer and songwriter from Idaho. The exhibit showcases artifacts spanning over 50 years of Sorrels' life, highlighting her contributions as a performer, writer, teacher, and social activist. The display aims to celebrate Sorrels' role in honoring Idaho's diverse traditions and serves as an introduction to the new Idaho Folklife Collection. (KTVB)
• With Jul. 4 approaching, the risk of fires is heightened due to excessive heat and the use of fireworks. It is important to use legal fireworks in designated areas empty of vegetation, such as gravel parking lots, to minimize the risk of accidental fires. It is also recommended to attend public aerial shows instead of handling fireworks personally for a safer holiday celebration. (Idaho 6 News)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Wednesday off right! I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow morning with another 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.