Way To Go,
Idaho! How The Gem State Has Helped Shape America
By Guest Contributor
Friday, March 9,
2018.
As the 14th
largest state in America, Idaho’s significance doesn’t always gain to the
recognition it deserves. However, the Gem State certainly lives up to its name
in a whole host of cultural aspects. In celebration of some of everything the
north-western state has to offer, here’s a look at some of the key areas and people.
Education
The Gem State has a rich history in the
field of education. In fact, the University of Idaho opened its
doors 1892 while others have been opened since the 1960s and beyond. Nowadays,
the main university offers almost 150 degrees while some of the other colleges
offer dozens too. Idaho’s alumni include many notable names in a variety of
environments. Michael Kirk, co-creator of Frontline, is one. However, there are
many in business, acedia and government too.
Sport
Idaho’s pro sports teams don’t grab the
headlines of some states, but they still play an important role in basketball,
baseball and ice hockey. Meanwhile, the university teams have produced
Olympians and NFL Super Bowl winners like Mark Schlereth. Meanwhile, former WWE starlet Torrie Wilson has been a key figure in
fighting for women’s reputation in sport and fitness. So, without having the
big name teams, Idaho has contributed to America’s relationship with sporting
activities.
Politics
Idaho still operates under its original
state constitution of 1889. Meanwhile, the 43rd state is represented by key
figures like Senate Mike Crapo, who has
been in office for two decades. The position of Idaho’s key personnel has
influenced key debates on gun control and abortions in recent times. This has
been particularly true during the Trump years. Other key senates over the years
have included Reed Budge and Jim Risch. Idaho’s state and national standing is
very influential to say the least.
Entertainment
Idaho is famous for many famous film
and tv stars, on both sides of the camera. It is also a place that has inspired
the movement away from Hollywood. However, the state’s music scene is perhaps an even greater
influence. From jazz stars like Eugene Haire to singers Morgan James and Brett
Nelson, fans of various genres will know about Idaho’s best musicians. The Gem
State has also produced noteworthy names in art and various other forms of
entertainment.
Retail
Albertson's retail group of grocery
stores was started in 1939 in Idaho by Joe Albertson. It is still headquartered in Idaho. With over 2,200 stores across the country, most people have had their
lives directly influenced by the company. For 250,000, it’s also a place of
work. At the time of his death in 2008, J.R Simplot was the oldest member on
the Forbes 400 list too. His success was largely based around potato products.
Idaho is home to a number of large-scale companies in today’s climate too.
So, there you go. Even if you’ve never
been to the Gem State, there’s little doubt that it has influenced your world
in many different aspects. Way to go, Idaho.