An air quality advisory remains in effect across the Boise area through Tuesday at 2 p.m., with conditions classified as “unhealthy” for prolonged outdoor activity. The National Weather Service is urging Ada County residents to limit strenuous exercise outdoors during the alert period, with forecasted temperatures reaching 95 degrees. The advisory underscores ongoing air quality challenges in the Treasure Valley during summer months.
Idaho Ski Furniture Turns Waste Into Craftsmanship
While air quality concerns keep some residents indoors, a McCall-based craftsman has found creative purpose in repurposing discarded materials from Idaho’s ski industry. Josh Cretser, founder of Idaho Ski Furniture, has been transforming old skis and chairlift equipment into functional and decorative furniture pieces for more than a decade.
Cretser’s entrepreneurial journey began roughly ten years ago after discovering abandoned skis at a local thrift store. “I have always built, fixed, or rebuilt things, from a young age,” Cretser explained. “About ten years ago, I came across some old skis at our local thrift store…” and the concept took shape. His first two sets of ski-based chairs sold within an hour of being posted online, validating the market demand for his work.
The McCall resident attended College of Western Idaho’s Welding & Metals Fabrication program, training that proved essential to his craft. About six years ago, Cretser expanded his product line to include furniture fashioned from retired chairlift components, further diversifying his inventory and demonstrating his versatility as a fabricator.
Idaho Ski Furniture products have become fixtures at regional art and community events, including Art in the Park and Hyde Park Street Fair. Cretser also accepts custom orders through his website and social media channels, allowing customers throughout Ada County and beyond to commission bespoke pieces that blend outdoor heritage with functional design.
AC Boise Adds Spanish Forward to Roster
In local sports news, AC Boise announced the signing of Jesus Barea, a 24-year-old forward from Spain who joins the team from Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake. Barea was selected 19th overall in the 2025 MLS Super Draft and brings professional experience to the squad midway through the season.
During his tenure with Real Salt Lake, Barea appeared in 11 matches. He saw more extensive playing time with Real Monarchs, the club’s MLS NEXT Pro affiliate, appearing in 18 games and scoring 15 goals. The Real Monarchs achieved a historic milestone in 2025 by making their first-ever playoff appearance, a season in which Barea played a contributing role.
Barea’s soccer pedigree includes a college career at Missouri State University, where he played alongside Jonathan Kliewer during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. The connection to Kliewer and familiarity with the coaching staff may have facilitated the move to Boise.
AC Boise Head Coach Nate Miller, hired in October 2025, previously served as an assistant coach with Real Salt Lake, giving him firsthand knowledge of Barea’s abilities and potential fit within the team’s system. Miller has already bolstered the roster through mid-season acquisitions; Barea is the second MLS player to join AC Boise during the current campaign. Josh Yaro, acquired on loan from St. Louis City SC in June, remains on the roster for the remainder of the season.
Club officials characterized Barea as a valuable addition to the squad, noting that “his combination of technical quality, attacking instincts, and versatility makes him a dynamic addition to the squad.” The signing reflects AC Boise’s commitment to competing at a high level in its professional league competition.
What Comes Next
Residents should monitor air quality conditions through Tuesday afternoon. Those seeking outdoor activities in Ada County are encouraged to check the National Weather Service forecast and air quality index before making plans. For individuals interested in supporting local artisans like Cretser, Art in the Park and similar community events offer opportunities to view and purchase handcrafted items while supporting the Boise-area creative economy.
AC Boise fans can follow the team’s progress with Barea and other roster additions as the season continues.