I Heart 2C

Idaho Preferred is a program created by the Idaho State Department of Agriculture aimed connecting the consumer with Food and Agriculture products grown, raised or crafted in Idaho. They help tell the stories of why we need to buy local and how businesses can buy and use local Idaho Prefferd businesses. Erica White, from Idaho Preferred and Chanelle Tewalt from the Idaho Department of Agriculture share about the exciting things happening with Idaho Farmers, Producers and creators and how we, as the consumer can help this ecomony in our State thrive even more. You can visit their websites: https://idahopreferred.com & https://agri.idaho.gov/main/ facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IdahoPreferred & https://www.facebook.com/IdahoAgriculture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/idahopreferred/

River Discovery’s focus is providing once in a lifetime experiences for people fighting cancer or survivors out on our gorgeous Idaho rivers. With each experience, it also creates a community where these fighters are seen, heard, empowered, healed and find commonality with eachother out in nature. Their Executive Director, Betsy Carver, shares with us the mission behind this great organization and how they have helped so many. You can visit ther website: https://www.riverdiscovery.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiverDiscovery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riverdiscovery/

As the fall season is ending and the start of planning the winter holidays begins, meet Shindig Farms! You can finish your fall festivites for the last few days with a Straw maze (haunted on the weekend), pumpkin patch, giant slide, zipline, swing, and more. But wait there is more! The owner Kent Mortensen, will be turning this farm is to a lit up maze for the winter. They use over 1 million lights to illuminate this maze for the winter. They will also have Christmas Trees and more activities for the whole family. Listen as Kent tells us about it! Visit Shindig Farms website https://shindigfarms.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShindigFarms Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shindigfarms/

The invasion of Ukraine has prompted Europe's LARGEST HUMANITARIAN CRISIS since World War II. Since February more than 13 million people have been displaced, fleeing from their homes and forced to seek refuge as refugees. 6.7 million have been dispersed throughout Europe, but another 6.6 million are internally displaced. It is anticipated that another 2 million will be displaced in the coming weeks. The local Slavic Churches wanted to do somehting about the crisis starting in March and now on their 3rd drive they have help thousands of people in Ukraine with food, clothing, medical supplies and more. Listen as we talk to Humanitarian Aid for Ukraine's Coordinator, Tanya Petruchok, share with us what they are doing to help and how you can help, this coming Thursday, Friday amd Saturday to help. You can visit their website here: https://www.fgschurch.org/ukrainerelief Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/2557528121068179 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aid4ukraine_id/

Did you know we have had a cigar lounge in Nampa for almost 3 years now? Owner's Tim and Jen open their lounge just as the pandemic was hitting. They managed to stay open during the hit and create a great community in downtown Nampa that draws all kinds of people that enjoy being at the their lounge on a regular basis. They have a walk in humidor as well as a full bar to enjoy while you are there. Whether you are a pro or you are like me, Hanna, and a newbie, this place is for EVERYONE. Listen to our fun chat with Tim & Jen, they alos give a little hint on their next possible location... Visit their website:https://vcutlounge.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vcutlounge Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vcutlounge/

We had the pleasure of talking with President/CEO Enrique Riverea and Director of Operations Mari Ramos of the Idaho Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. With their offices being located in Nampa, Idaho, we of course know that their support for Canyon County businesses has been a great one. With their mission being to "promote the integration advancement and economic growth for Idaho Hispanic businesses as the premiere connection to resources all of Idaho to thrive", it has been so impressive to see how much growth these business have had especially in Canyon County. Mari & Enrique are always looking for more ways to collaborate, learn and grow together to improve the lives and businesses of our Hispanic community which means involving the rest of our local business community to support and connect as well. Listen in to our wonderful discussion we had Enrique and Mari and here is where you can find out more info on how to get involved in the Idaho Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Website: https://www.idahohcc.net Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/idahohcc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/idahohcc/

Lovely Hollow Farm is U-Pick flower and pumpkin farm located near the Sunnyslope Wine Trail on the famous Chicken Dinner Road. An agritourism farm, they are open seasonally for visitors to come pick a bucket of flowers, pumpkins and attend other special events throughout the season. Owner Nikki Van Lith shares the story of the farm’s beginnings and what makes it so unique.

A unique cocktail experience in Canyon County, the mission of Craft lounge is to cultivate a sense of belonging, through the exploration and education of early American cocktail culture. Owner Nic Boban talks about what makes Craft Lounge unique and highlights their recent announcement of opening up a slightly different concept, but stay with their flare and great quality experience. You can visit them on their website. Follow them on Facebook & Instagram.

Compassion Caldwell is a free community health clinic led by local churches that provides free medical and dental services. Over 10 local churches representing different denominations serving together to provide compassionate services to our neighbors who are under-insured and in need. Rev. Jim Porter of Caldwell Free Methodist tells us about how it was founded and ways to get involved.

Now in its 98th year, the Caldwell Night Rodeo is one of the largest and longest-running annual events in Canyon County, drawing rodeo fans in excess of 45,000 over 5 action-packed nights. Listed among the Top 20 Professional Rodeos AND Top 5 Large Outdoor Rodeos in the nation, Caldwell Night Rodeo features the best professional cowboys, cowgirls and animal athletes in the world and is an annual stop on the professional rodeo tour. CNR President, Juan Avila, tells us about this year’s rodeo and more exciting things to come!

Think, great atmosphere, living room with fire, local beer and wine bar, light food with a boutique shopping experience, put that together and you have Mesquite Creek Outfitters! Brad & Lauren Bowden, have found the perfect spot in Caldwell, on the Indian Creek Plaza to open up shop, coming soon in August (the 13th is still up in the air...). Listen in on how they describe what MCO will be all about. John is definitely excited about the exclusive membership they are offering and of course, Hanna loves the idea of having a glass of wine and shopping their great options for women's clothes! Make sure to follow them on social media so you can be the first to know when they are opening! Website: https://www.mesquitecreekidaho.com Follow: Facebook & Instagram

Red Top Market started in 2020 with the idea of bringing local produce, products, beer and wine from local farmers and vendors; you will also find some out of state produce as well. Operated by the Gooding Farm family, they are proud supporters or our local community! Join us as we talk to Andrea Gooding, owner of Red Top, about the cool things going on at Red Top Road! Then come out and visit on a Thursday for their Thirsty Thursdays' events. You can visit them on their website And follow them on Facebook & Instagram

Since 1892, the Nampa Chamber of Commerce has been where things happen for businesses in Nampa. Connections are made, relationships are formed, advocacy is born, and success is celebrated. Join us as we talk to President & CEO, Mitch Minnette, about all of the exciting things that are going on in Nampa. Visit their website to get more information on membership and events. Follow them on Facebook & Instagram

It’s "Fair Time" in Canyon County and a buzz is in the air. Join us as we talk to Fair Director, Diana Sinner, about the comings and goings of the 2022 Canyon County Fair. Also, stay tuned as Diana has an announcement about a special music act… Hanna is excited about this one! You can find out all the details and purchase tickets at their website: https://www.canyoncountyfair.org Follow them on Facebook & Instagram

The Snake River Stampede in Nampa, Idaho is one of the top 10 regular professional rodeos out of the approximately 600 rodeos in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. This is a long way from its humble beginnings of just after the turn of the century. Join us as we talk to Dan Ward about the history of the Stampede and what they have in store for fans this year. Then grab your tickets for this year's rodeo and activities going on, July 19-23. Visit their website for more information and tickets: https://snakeriverstampede.com You can follow them on Facebook

We had no idea salt diffused into the air you breath, can help heal all kinds of ailments, especially allergies and congestion. Terry Franklin, just opened this new Salt Therapy rooms in Caldwell and has already seen positive results in her clients that use the rooms on a regular basis. This was a fascinating and educating chat with Terry and you will enjoy it as well! Take a listen, then go visit her salt rooms in Caldwell. You can get more information here: https://www.refreshrestorerenew.com And follow them on Instagram & Facebook

I got the honor of co-hosting this episode with my 13 year old daughter, Madalyn. Talking with mother, daughter founders of June Loop Swimwear, June Blackburn and Kristie Kemp here in Nampa, was so special. These women have created a swimwear line that makes every woman of every shape and size feel beautiful and comfortable in a swimsuit. It just started with sewing some pieces from a pattern because June knew how to sew and Kristie wanted something different. Now it is a global brand with customers all over the world. They are now celebrating 8 years of business and continuing to creating beautiful pieces that help women shine in whatever body shape they are in. You can check out all their swimsuits here: https://juneloop.com And Follow them on Instagram and Facebook

I got the honor of co-hosting this episode with my 13 year old daughter, Madalyn. Talking with mother, daughter founders of June Loop Swimwear, June Blackburn and Kristie Kemp here in Nampa, was so special. These women have created a swimwear line that makes every woman of every shape and size feel beautiful and comfortable in a swimsuit. It just started with sewing some pieces from a pattern because June knew how to sew and Kristie wanted something different. Now it is a global brand with customers all over the world. They are now celebrating 8 years of business and continuing to creating beautiful pieces that help women shine in whatever body shape they are in. You can check out all their swimsuits here: https://juneloop.com And Follow them on Instagram and Facebook

Pastoring a church in 2022 can be a difficult challenge. That’s why Ryan Stoops and the leadership at Deer Flat Church created the School of Applied Ministry (SAM). SAM teaches pastors in a practical and empowering environment to become better servant church leaders. Listen to Ryan explain the details and mission of this important effort. For more information, please visit: https://www.deerflat.org/sam/ And follow on Facebook

The Nampa Farmers Market is a staple in the Canyon County Community as it has been part of Downtown Nampa Since 1989. Bob Wagner, the Director, tells us about the past and all the great things that are happening there right now. You won’t want to miss the the market OR the podcast! You can find more info at their website: https://nampafarmersmarket.com And follow them on Facebook and Instagram

Canyon County has a thriving Basque Community that loves to celebrate its culture. Amaya Aguirre-Landa joined us to talk about a brand new Basque event that is sure to be a hit. When the sun goes down in the Basque Country on San Juan Eguna, the feast day of St. John the Baptist, bonfires are lit to celebrate the Basque Summer Solstice and a night of festivities begins. Txoko Ona is bringing San Juan Eguna to Homedale, Idaho! Listen in and then put this fun event on your Calendar. Visit their Website for more info: https://www.txokoona.org/events/sanjuaneguna

The Caldwell Chamber of Commerce has a long, storied history in our community. It now represents over 400 businesses in Caldwell. Listen to how the Chamber’s new Executive Director, Jerry Summers, has tackled a pandemic and unprecedented population growth at the same time. You can check out all of the Chamber's info here: https://www.caldwellchamber.org And please follow on Facebook & Instagram

We had a great interview with Scott Gipson, President of Caxton— his family's company for over 100 years. Their rich history in the publishing world— publishing books since the 1920s until now is inspiring. If you love local history, you will enjoy this interview! You'll also hear what Caxton's does on the printing side and how they are the only text book distributor for the State of Idaho schools. You can visit Caxton's Printing website here and their publishing side here

John and I sat down with Heath and Krista Albers to hear how Bond & Bevel came to be— to our surprise it started with leather goods! Hear their excitement and passion for selling high-end handmade leather goods, classy coffee and a cozy atmosphere. It's a great combination and perfect fit for Caldwell. Listen in to hear the Alber's story and then head over for a Flat-White breve (Hanna's fave) and see for yourself! Follow in Instagram & Facebook

Oscar Diaz a well known local commercial photographer in Nampa who has grown up here and now serves this community in various ways. He's now the Events Director of the Downtown Nampa Association and he has planned some great events on the 3rd Thursday of every month through October. There's wsomething for everyone, including your kiddos. They will have car shows, concerts, other entertainment, great shopping and food. The first 3rd Thursday starts May 19th. You will enjoy hearing all that's taking place in Nampa this summer 2022. To check out Oscar's services you can visit Instagram And all that is happening through Downtown Nampa Association visit their Facebook Page

Indian Creek Plaza is one of the busiest places in Idaho. Now that it is getting warmer, it will be buzzing with concerts and fun events through the summer. Melissa gives us the low down on the events you won't want to miss: May 5th with Cinco De Mayo and a Taco Taste-off Competition, then a Mother's Day Market. You can check out the whole calendar their website Facebook Instagram

Caldwell finally has a brewery! White Dog Brewery on the Indian Creek Plaza. It was so fun to chat with Dan Jordan, Co-Owner. Listen to the story of how they got started and how they ended up in Caldwell. Listen to the podcast and visit for yourself. For those of you non-beer drinkers, I recommend the Vanilla Cream, it's so yummy! You can check out White Dog Brewery at https://www.whitedogbrewing.com/hello Facebook: White Dog Brewing Caldwell Instagram: whitedogbrewingcaldwell

Mother Earth Brewery got their start in California, but it didn't take off and become recognized nationally until Dan, the owner, brought his production facility up to Nampa, Idaho in 2017/2018. Here he was able to grow the brand and have better support from the State of Idaho. Dan is a savvy business owner and loves his beer— a great conversation about what makes his brewery different. You can check out Mother Earth Brewery at https://www.motherearthbrewco.com/nampa Facebook: Mother Earth Brewing Company-Nampa,ID Instagram: Motherearthbrewco

We had no idea the history behind Crescent Brewery in Nampa and the original facility built over 100 years ago. Owner, Jerry Fergusson, opened his Brewery in 2009 to reestablish the name and bring back the history of the original Crescent Brewery. That makes his brewery the oldest in Canyon County and the 3rd oldest in the Treasure Valley. He has created a great down-home atmosphere with stout beers that people enjoy, and offerings like Blonde B*$ch, Skull Spliter and Tilted Kilt— you know his Irish blood comes out. Jerry wants everyone to feel welcome— they have live entertainment, karaoke night and comedy nights— you are sure to have a great time. You can check out Crescent Brewery at https://www.crescentbeer.com/the_brewery Facebook: Crescent Brewery Instagram: crescent_brewery

We had the honor of visiting with a local legend, Chad Pfiefer, who grew up in Caldwell, played baseball and was a like the "boy next door". He headed off to fight for his country, when his battalion hit an IED and it blew off his leg. In recovery and after he received his prosthetic leg, Chad found that golf was a great sport to play, to help him focus on something other than his missing limb,his depression and he found he actually enjoyed it! He enjoyed it so much he ended up becoming a professional golfer, is sponsored and now plays in tournaments around the world. We know you will enjoy hearing Chad's story and find encouragement that might help you as well. You can find out more about Chad's organization he talked about at https://movingforeward.org

Reagan's heart and passion is the student athletes at the College of Idaho. She attends almost every game cheering on the Yotes and takes an active role in supporting her coaches as well. Coach Rossi knows that the City of Caldwell's success is C of I's success and she works hard to make that connection. John and I have high respect for Reagan and the work she has done to help create a thriving Athletic Department, we know you will enjoy hearing how she helped make that happen.

Marsing’s own Shea McClellin has made a full circle journey in his football career and it was an honor to chat with him about the experiences that lead him to play for Boise State and then drafted in the first round into the NFL. He’s back in Marsing as the head football coach— out of all the places he could have gone, he chose his home town.We know you will enjoy hearing from Shea and his desire to be a role model in young men's lives.

John and I had a great chat with Colby Blaine, head coach of the College of Idaho Men's Basketball team. They've had a great season and are heading to the National tournament in the next few weeks. We talked with Colby about what it takes to have a dedicated team and how he learned to be an outstanding leader-- t qualities he teaches his team can be applied to all our lives. Take a listen and make sure to watch the Yotes website for ticket sales of the Championship games coming up, March 11th & 12th in Caldwell. Go Yotes!

It all started with a mission to find out where the gaps were in trade jobs. Matt and his co-founder Monica White were asking local business about the type of employees they were looking for. They then created a charter school that would equip kids with a high school education and a trade skill upon graduation. And it worked! Elevate Academy is now growing all over the state! Listen in on a great conversation we had with Matt Strong and find out if Elevate Academy is coming to your neighborhood.To learn more about Elevate Academy visit: https://www.elevate2c.org

We talked to Dr. Merrill about the positive impact that Treasure Valley Community College is having on economic growth in Canyon County. Learn about the trades they offer in aviation, medical, technical and agriculture. These trades are in such high demand that their students are able to find great paying jobs in no time. What a hidden gem in Canyon County!Visit https://www.tvcc.cc for more informationYou can contact Benjamin at bmerrill@tvcc.cc Elevate Academy, a local Charter School equipping teens for careers in the community with Founder, Matt Strong.It all started with a mission to find out where the gaps were in trade jobs. Matt and his co-founder Monica White were asking local business about the type of employees they were looking for. They then created a charter school that would equip kids with a high school education and a trade skill upon graduation. And it worked! Elevate Academy is now growing all over the state! Listen in on a great conversation we had with Matt Strong and find out if Elevate Academy is coming to your neighborhood.To learn more about Elevate Academy visit: https://www.elevate2c.org

Jared Sliger is a math teacher at Syringa Middle School and he has found a unique way to help kids engage with math— and enjoy it. How does he do it? There are no chairs, students work together on white boards to solve problems. Find out more about this fascinating approach to learning.If you are interested in learning more or visiting his classroom, contact Jared at Jsliger@caldwellschools.org Here is the link to the book, Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics by Peter Liljedal

This was a fascinating talk with Brad, 4th Generation of family farming just outside Caldwell. New generations of farmers are getting creative on how grow and raise their products. They aren't just growing crops, cutting them and selling them. They are becoming innovative and learning how to sustain the quality and integrity of the land that directly affects their animals and the humans that consume those animals and produce. We learned so much from Brad on this podcast interview and we know you will too! You can visit McIntyre Family Farms here: https://mcintyrefamilyfarms.com Facebook Instagram

We continue our Agriculture theme and chat with, Michelle Gooding, one of the 3 Gooding sisters, and the 4th generation of hop growers in Canyon and Owyhee County. Hops are a growing industry in the area, -especially for craft beers- and the Gooding family is one of a handful of farms doing a great job, keeping up with the demand. Take a listen as we talk to Michelle Gooding about their hop farm and diverse offerings. You can check out the Gooding farm here: https://www.goodingfarms.com Facebook Instagram BMB Cattle Website: https://www.bmbcattle.com BMB Cattle Facebook BMB Cattle Instagram Red Top Market Website: https://www.redtopmkt.com Red Top Market Facebook Red Top Market Instagram

Learning by experience seems to be the fastest way to make understanding stick. The Rowleys, owners of Cherry Hill Farms, provide great opportunities by allowing the public to come out and pick produce themselves, tour the fruit orchards or purchase directly from their market. This helps people in our community understand where their food they eat truly comes from and how it is cared for. Take a listen to our conversation with Marina and then make plans to come out and learn about Agriculture in Canyon County. You can visit them at https://cherryhillfarms.com Facebook Instagram

John and I had the pleasure of having Gregg Alger one of the OG viteculterists here in Canyon County. We love his passion for Canyon County, educating on the importance of understanding wine as a part of Agriculture. Check out our conversation with Gregg. You can find out more about Huston's tasting room, membership and hours here: https://hustonvineyards.com Facebook Instagram

Who knew legos could bring so much joy to hurting kids all over the Treasure Valley! We had such a great interview with Cindy, Founder of Brody's Bricks, a non-profit who gives legos to St Lukes, Nampa Family Justice Center and any other place where kids need cheering up. This organization started because of a difficult circumstance in Cindy's own life, which you can read below Brody's Bricks, Inc began on Good Friday. A few days prior we had gone into St. Luke's Children's Cancer Institute in Boise for some lab work. Unfortunately, Brody's labs weren't where they needed to be and they asked us to come back to begin infusion treatments. They've diagnosed him with an autoimmune disease and epilepsy. His body little body is just fighting itself. We hadn't no idea he was going to need these treatments. Trying to cheer him up, I told him I had put a couple Lego sets aside at Bricknowlogy for him and his brother for Easter and maybe we could go get them when we were done. During the infusion Brody overheard another little boy asking if there were any Batman Lego sets he hadn't already done. He leaned over to me and whispered, " He must be here a lot, mom." He then asked if we could donate his Legos to the hospital instead. He told me God put him there on Good Friday as a test. I was so proud of my son, but my heart heart for what he was experiencing so young. After his treatment we returned with several Lego sets to donate. We posted a picture with my two sons, Daniel and Brody, and a couple of the St. Luke's Children's Cancer Institute nurses holding the Legos online. Friends and family started sending sets to donate! We realized this could really be a positive thing for the children in our community. We applied for our non-profit status and so began Brody's Bricks, Inc! We've been so honored to help bring joy to children through out the Treasure Valley. We continue to donate multiple Lego sets monthly to St. Luke's Children's Cancer Institute. We also donate to Nampa Family Justice Center. We help fill Ronald McDonald House Charities of Idaho wish list as well as their pantry. We've been able to send multiple Lego care packages directly to the homes of children going through chemotherapy as well as packages for their siblings. We fill backpacks for foster care programs. We've donated close to 300 hygiene kits! We have an absolutely amazing community who has shown an overwhelming response to Brody's hope of helping other children going through similar health situations! Be sure to follow Brody's Bricks on Facebook and Instagram and you can contact Cindy at brodysbricksinc@gmail.com And also check out their posts about delivering gifts with Santa and his special story as well, Cindy briefly touches on this in our interview.

I thought I would share with you, our listeners, a little more insight into my big family and what it is like growing up with 6 siblings and the best parents a daughter could ask for. I grew up most of my years in Nampa, so we talk about that, the example of being an entrepreneur we had from our parents and our Christmas traditions. I hope you enjoy this special Christmas edition with me, my parents, Doug and Marge Ness, my siblings in age order after me, since I am the oldest, Naomi Gibbs, Abigail Ness, Micah Ness, Josiah Ness, Lydia Ness and Tabitha Ness. Merry Christmas everyone!