I am returning today from a speech in Boise, Idaho. I love coming to Idaho and Boise in the “Treasure Valley” is always a delight. This city was initially founded as a fort along the Oregon Trail and grew rapidly during the Gold Rush. It remains an American gem, a quiet and graceful city along the Boise River.

For urban dwellers, the friendliness of everyone is striking. Everyone greets you with a giant smile and eagerness. It takes a while to dispel a certain suspicion, but they cannot all be serial killers. It just happens to be a city filled with wonderful people who genuinely want to help you.

Unfortunately, this was a brief trip and I could not get out on the trails. However, here are a few pics.  I started by having a burger at Fork, a favorite eating spot known for its fried asparagus.

I visited the State Capitol building, which was built in 1863 when this was still a territory. It was not until July 3, 1890, that Idaho became the 43rd state.  The statue with the shoes is the Idaho Women’s Suffrage Commemorative Sculpture to celebrate the trailblazing women of this state. It is the work of local sculptor Irene Deely.