The boys of Boise

On Saturday I sat and judged four boys all vying for the title of Idaho Leatherboy. Quite a showing for a small city in the conservative Rocky Mountain area of the United States. With broad smiles, the boys were introduced one by one. Any region in North America would have been proud to have such contestants.

Hours before, I spent time watching the bootblack contestant. With the fastidiousness of a more experienced black, he serviced the boots of anyone who sat in his chair: cowboy boots, short ankles zips, high heels, and the occasional military boots. And Scout, last year's Northwest Community Bootblack, critiqued his work after each client, pointing out details in a way that was not only instructive but nurturing.

The highlight of my weekend, the boot stomping demo with Scout. Rather than line up the attendees in rows, we shaped the space in a semi-circle. An active and very light-spirited scene!

Last year began the tradition of Ruff n ' Tumble, an annual run in May that promises to become one of the most exciting events in the Northwest. Bravo to Kevin, Laura, and the owners of The Lucky Dog Tavern for hosting it. And for those of you who like hot boys, Boise is your kind of town. They just don't come any hotter than this.