Boise, Eagle, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell & Beyond
Holidays at Harris North
BOISE STAYCATIONS · SACRED SPACES · DECORATOR SECRETS CAMP RAINBOW GOLD · BEST VACATION? SUN VALLEY VS MCCALL
Alicia C. Ralston 208-850-7638 www.ralstongroupproperties.com
420 W Main Street | Suite 102 Boise, Idaho 83702
191 Sun Valley Road | Suite 202 Ketchum, Idaho 83340
Happy from...
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one, the only, the Best THE TREASURE VALLEY’S PREMIERE MONTHLY REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE
(208)481-0693 · WWW.IDAHOREM.COM · KAREN@IDAHOREM.COM · DECEMBER 2018
The Christmas
I was eight years old, our family’s home burned to the ground. I remember standing in the dark street, my mother’s cheeks glistening with tears turned orange in flaming reflection. We were all safe, even our poodle, huddled close enough together to feel reassurance and the radiating heat. It was a disaster for sure, but not the kind of injury that maims for life, more like a scar that fades with age. I’m relating this story because I spent Christmas in an unexpectedly wonderful home-away-fromhome that year, which is the focus of our Holiday issue of Idaho Real Estate Marketplace. Some people can’t imagine waking up on Christmas morn anywhere but their own home, while many others traditionally enjoy traveling to see family, friends or go on vacation. Wherever you spend the Holidays, this time of year shines a spotlight on goodwill, community and faith. Here in the Treasure Valley, you can always find a place to worship and in this issue, Patty Murphy explores some of the most beautiful Sacred Spaces and what makes them special to their congregations. Also, in these pages, Zach Kyle tackles the easy argument about which vacation spot is best for the Holidays—or any day: Sun Valley or McCall. What about leaving home but
staying close to home just for fun and an escape from shoveling snow? Dee Ferris, our arts and culture writer, explains the joys of a great Staycation in some of Boise’s boutique hotels. She also digs into the great Christmas tree debate that plagues so many households this time of year: artificial or real? The environmental facts she unearths may surprise you! Whether you are visiting a home-away-from home or live in the Treasure Valley this Holiday season, we here at Idaho Real Estate Marketplace wish you comfort and joy. Enjoy your eggnog! We look forward to sharing engaging stories, local insights and being your best source for Idaho real estate in 2019!
Karen Day Editor in Chief
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A L L OF TH E
POWDER pose NO N E O F T H E
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A second home should be a sanctuary for peace and authenticity, not a place of pretense and pose. At Whitetail Club, the premier private community in the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find just that: a natural haven for your family to retreat to when searching for both adventure and serenity alike. Where backcountry skiing, indulging at our spa and dining at our lakefront clubhouse are everyday occurrences.
Located in spectacular McCall, Idaho, just two hours north of Boise, this is the mountain-lake community that you have been dreaming of. An authentic, luxurious life brimming with endless adventures, only at Whitetail Club. Explore more at WhitetailClub.com/Discover or call 877.634.1725. Homes starting from $739,000. Homesites starting from the low $300s.
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Obtain a Property Report required by Federal Law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. Whitetail Club is represented by Whitetail Club Realty, LLC. This is not an offering in any jurisdiction where prior qualification is required and no marketing or sales literature will be forwarded to or disseminated in such jurisdictions unless or until we have met such qualifications. We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. Scenes and views may be of a location not on or related to the property.
TA BL E of CON T E N T S
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OU R TEAM
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ARTS & CUL TUR E Sacred Spaces
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ADVENTURE & T RAV EL Sun Valley or McCall?
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HOLIDAY SPECIAL The Christmas Tree Debate
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COMMUNITY Camp Rainbow Gold
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REAL ESTATE NEWS Staycation Interior Decorator Secrets
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M O N T H LY E XT RA S Go Out Local Happenings
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Boise and Beyond Map
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Contributors
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LORI OTTER
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PPY A H IDA L Y O H FROM
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Monica Braun REAL ESTATE CONSULTANT
Whether you’re entertaining friends and family or raising your loved ones, finding the right home is a commitment and a dream. If you’re in the market to buy a home or sell a house, allow me to be the key to success with your real estate needs. I can turn your dream home into a reality!
“I believeve home is a place where you can relax, unplug and create cherished memories.” (208) 860.8355 Monica@BlackDiamondRE.com www.BlackDiamondRE.com
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DECEMBER 2018/ JANUARY 2019
ON THE COV ER
publisher/editor in chief K A R E N DAY karen@idahorem.com
With unmatched views over Boise, our premium
lots and spacious the best in new
managing editor DA N A D uG A N editor@idahorem.com
Unmatched views, trailhead access, the latest in home
copy editor Z ACK CR E NSH AW
floorplans feature home construction.
construction, the very best Boise has to offer.
A variety of spacious floorplans and amenities at Boise’s premier community with a view.
Beautiful homes, great neighbors, endless adventure, stunning
views, this is the place to be. Harris Ranch North: See page 22
IN OUR NE X T ISSUE:
The Eg y ptian T h e a t e r : B o i s e ’s Histor ic Gem Boom or Bust i n 2 0 19 : Wi l l t h e Tr e a s u r e Va l l e y R e a l E state Rush Cont inue?
art director K AR EN K EY art@idahorem.com designers and illustrators JOH N AT H A N S TOK E S D ON N A S TACK HOU SE director of operations N ICOL E G OODL E T T nicole@idahorem.com director of operations CA ITLIN ZAK caitlin@idahorem.com contributing photographers K A R E N DAY J OH N W E B S T E R
Idaho Real Estate Marketplace Magazine is published located at PO Box 116, Boise, ID 83701. Telephone 208-481-0693 © 2018 Idaho Real Estate Marketplace Magazine. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed by the authors and contributors to Idaho Real Estate Magazine are not necessarily those of the editor and publisher. IDAHO Real Estate M A R K E T P L A C E www.idahorem.com
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Welcome home.
420 W Main Street | Suite 102 | Boise, ID 83702 191 Sun Valley Road | Suite 202 | Ketchum, ID 83340 www.ralstongroupproperties.com
Sacred Spaces A LOOK INSIDE SOME OF BOISE’S ICONIC HOUSES OF WORSHIP B Y PAT T I M U R P H Y
Churches, temples,
synagogues and cathedrals, each one beautiful in its own way and constructed to comfort and inspire worshipers, provide a sacred and secure “home” in which to express beliefs, and draw seekers into the holy solemnity of their spiritual faith. But what is it that 10
makes these spaces sacred? We spoke with leaders of some of Boise’s most prominent religious spaces and asked that question. The Treasure Valley mirrors the globe in its diversity of religious denominations and yet, answers from all proved similar in spirit:
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“Prayers and dreams, gatherings, sacraments, celebration and worship, weddings and funerals, the proclamation of the word of God.” Despite differences in doctrine and design, sacred spaces are places we worship, together or alone. Freely.
Left: Cathedral of The Rockies, the largest Methodist church in the west. Above: Rabbi Dan Finke oversees Congregation
Ahavath Beth Israel. Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel was built in 1896 in downtown Boise and eventually, moved to the Bench.
C ON G R E G AT ION A HAVAT H B ETH ISR A E L S Y NA G O G U E
Boise’s Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel is a merging of two Jewish congregations: Beth Israel, a reformed synagogue founded by German Jews 1895, and Ahavath Israel, an orthodox synagogue founded by Russian and Polish Jews in 1912. The building in which today’s Ahavath Beth Israel congregation worships was built in 1896 and is listed on the National Historic Register as the oldest synagogue in continuous use west of the Mississippi River. “The building is built of Boise sandstone, adorned with wood shingles, a common design for synagogues in Europe,” said Rabbi
Dan Fink. “Inside reflects a Moorish design, with rounded arches and lots of geometric design.” This design pays homage to the period when Jews lived under the Moors in Spain and were full participants in the dominant culture. “It was considered a golden age for the Jewish people. “It is a sacred space because of the history of the religious spiritual practice,” said Rabbi Fink. “A space becomes sacred when we can link up with the prayers and dreams of previous generations.” The synagogue partners with other churches in the community to host interfaith meals for the hungry; helps people in the community with food, errands, and basic support; has a community garden farmed by refugees and
provides space to a preschool. In 2003 the building was moved from its original downtown location on State Street to its current location on Latah Street. From 1am to 5 a.m., the synagogue slowly traveled through the streets of Boise, followed by a procession of 1,000 people. C AT HE D RA L OF TH E R OC K I ES
In December 1960, the Boise First United Methodist Church, known as the Cathedral of the Rockies, opened the doors to its new downtown Boise site at 11th and Hays streets, after growing out of its two previous buildings. Designed in the cruciform style, meaning shaped like a cross, the towering neo-gothic
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The Mormon Temple Latter-day Saints overlooks the Boise River in Meridian. The Islamic Center is Boise serves the Muslim community in the Treasure Valley.
Cathedral is built from Arizona flagstone, punctuated by large, intricate stained-glass windows that tell the story of both the scriptures and the history of Methodism. On the front doors are carved the Beatitudes, and inside, the largest pipe organ in the Northwest fills the sanctuary with music. The Boise church, along with its sister campus Amity located in Southwest Boise, is the largest Methodist church in the western jurisdiction, not in physical size but in terms of attendance, which reaches about 1,400 each week. “What makes this space sacred is the people gathering,” said Senior Pastor Duane Anders. “And that’s true whether it’s our Sunday service, or when our Muslim brothers and sisters use our space, or when high school students or neighbors or the 12
homeless come in to warm up and have coffee. We all find that God can speak in this space.” The church is well known for its multiple services, special events and music programs, many held during the Christmas season. This year there will be 11 separate services to be held between Sunday and Monday, Dec. 23 and 24. ME RI DI A N I D A H O TE M P L E
On bluff overlooking the Boise River, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Meridian was completed in 2017. The magnificent structure brought the number of Idaho temples to five. In honor of its opening, the temple held a three-week open house during which more than 208,000 people from the community were welcomed to visit and tour the facility.
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The 67,331 square foot temple is constructed of structural steel with a precast white exterior. On top, an angel, a Moroni statue, stands 13 feet tall. The octagonal temple dome is covered with titanium shingles that change color depending on the sunlight, from brown to golden. The marble stone inside was quarried from Egypt, Italy and Spain. “This is a sacred space for members of our faith where certain sacraments are received, including marriage which, we believe, extends beyond “till death do we part,” said Brian Whitlock, LDS Public Affairs director. “As such, only members of the church in good standing are allowed inside, but the Temple grounds are beautiful and open to the general public.” There are approximately 426,000 practicing members of the Latter-day Saints in Idaho. The Meridian temple serves more than 60,000 Latter-day Saints from 16 states. T H E I S LA M I C C E N T E R OF B OI SE
In 1955, the first Muslim arrived in Boise and by 1982, a couple dozen regularly attended Jumu’ah (congregational) prayers. Today more than 200 people attend prayers at the Islamic Center, where there are five daily prayers held seven days a week. As well as classes, Sunday school and potluck dinners, the Center holds regular Friday congregational prayers,
The cathedral hosts large musical performances such as the Boise Philharmonic and the Boise Master Chorale, an interfaith Thanksgiving service, as well as the Basque The Islamic Center is Boise serves the Muslim community in community’s the Treasure Valley. annual San Inazio Festival night (Tarawih) prayers during the Mass to honor Saint Ignatius in month of Ramadan; and two Eid July. The Basque community was Holiday prayers. one of the founding communities Boise has long been a state of St. Johns along with Irish and that welcomes refugees and immiGermans immigrants. grants, about 95 percent of whom “We are one of are Muslims from countries such the iconic buildas Bosnia, Afghanistan, Somalia, ings of Idaho and Uzbekistan, Iraq, Sudan, Congo, are listed on the Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh, National Register Kenya, Tanzania and Syria. of Historic Places,” said Father S T. JO HN THE Gerald Funke, E VAN G EL I S T CATH E DR AL the Cathedral’s The home church of the Idaho rector. “One thing Catholics is St. John the Evanabout the building gelist Cathedral, a landmark of I particularly like Boise’s history since its cornerstone is that frequently was laid in 1906. Built by Tourin older churches tellotte & Hummel from the same there are columns. Table Rock quarry sandstone as In contrast St. the state capitol, the church was John’s is a widecompleted in 1921. open space with Today, St. John’s serves about no columns. As a 1,600 families, and offers mass in church at the turn English, Spanish and Korean. It is of the century, the sponsor parish for Bishop Kelly that breadth of the High School, and is affiliated with space really stands St. Joseph’s Catholic School, locatout.” ed on the church campus.
Explaining the sacredness of the cathedral, Father Funke said, “It’s about what happens here, the celebration and worship, baptisms, people gathered in prayer, weddings and funerals, the proclamation of the word of God.” “The cathedral is an historic building but it’s very much a living building and home to an alive community. The life of the cathedral has always been part of the life of downtown Boise since the beginning.”
St. John the Evangelist Cathedral is know for its stained glass windows.
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YOUR RECREATION HEADQUARTERS
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208.806.1702 peta.verhaeghe@sunvalleysir.com
Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity.
BEST VACATION? SUN VALLEY VS. M C CALL BY ZACH KYLE TRUTH TIME:
Nobody is going to feel bad for you if you’re struggling to pick between McCall and Sun Valley for your next vacation. The two mountain towns are among the state’s most gorgeous spots for playing hard and chilling out. You can’t go wrong choosing either McCall or Sun Valley, but each have their distinctive feel and flavor, and one might be a better fit for you and your family. Before you book that resort package, check
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out our handy cheat sheet to get a sense for both towns.
M C CALL: LAKES AND MOUNTAINS Given McCall sits on Payette Lake, which wraps around the peninsula that is Ponderosa State Park, it makes sense the trappers roaming the area in the early 1800s named it “Lake City.” First settled around 1890, the town grew around the timber industry,
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though tourists traveled to McCall to enjoy the mountains and lakes in the early 1890s. The sawmill industry closed with the last mill in 1977, but tourism sustains this town of about 3,400 thanks to its year-round attractions. Located in the heart of Idaho a little more than two hours drive from Boise north up I-55, McCall is a Mecca for camping, hiking, boating, golfing, fishing, mountain biking and about anything else outdoors enthusiasts
Opposite page, left: Sun Valley, the original destination
ski resort in the U.S., is best know for its world class Bald Mountain. Right: Payette Lake is magical any time of year in McCall Above: A paddle boarder cruises through summer on Payette Lake. Right: A snowboarder executes a smooth grab on Brundage Mountain in McCall. All photos courtesy of John Webster
would ever want. That includes snowsports and downhill skiing at the Little Ski Hill, two miles outside of town, Brundage Mountain Idaho Ski Resort, about 15 minutes away, and at Tamarack Resort about a half hour drive away. Shoreline Lodge serves as McCall’s tourism center. Located on the lake with a stream running beside it, the lodge offers comfortable guest rooms with beautiful views. For dining, there’s a The Cutwater restaurant, The Narrows
Steakhouse and The Bar for beer, wine and handcrafted drinks. The Cove spa offers a host of massages, facials, salon treatment and other luxurious options to help relax after days spent exploring the many recreation options available on-site and nearby.
SUN VALLEY: WORLD-CLASS RECREATION Formerly a mining town, life in Ketchum and Sun Valley has revolved around the Sun Valley
Lodge and the area’s world-class skiing since Union Pacific Railroad built and opened the Lodge in 1936. An upscale destination, Sun Valley has attracted celebrities, presidents and corporate magnates seeking to escape their public lives by vacationing in the beautiful Idaho mountains. Surrounded by the Sawtooth National Forest, the greater Sun Valley area known as the Wood River Valley is situated about 155 miles east of Boise on a route along
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I-84, I-20 and I-75. It includes Sun Valley (population around 1,500) five minutes north of Ketchum (2,700) and about 14 minutes north of Hailey (8,200). Unlike the woodsy and mountainous drive into McCall, the approach to the Wood River Valley is open prairie filled with striking grassland, sagebrush and farmland. That changes dramatically once one hits the Wood River Valley. Skiing, naturally, is the area’s most well-known form of recreation. Sun Valley offers easy access to two ski areas: Bald Mountain, the famous hill most associated with Sun Valley and nearby Dollar Mountain, which features a terrain and progression park and the largest super pipe in North America. But Sun Valley has plenty to offer in the warmer months, too, including three top-notch golf courses, hiking and mountain biking (with plenty of rental bikes available), along with world class fly-fishing. The area offers everything a vacationer could want, including myriad dining options, access to the robust local art scene, spa packages and, of course, magnificent views and a variety of Nordic sport options. Obviously, there’s only one way to determine which great spot you prefer. Visit both! Top: Hike in the Pioneer Mountains north of Sun Valley. Middle: Guests enjoying summer fare at a farm-to-table cuisine in the Wood River Valley. Above: McCall offers breathtaking lake views from every angle. 18
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OWN A PIECE OF THE RANCH 26 brand new homesites available now. SELLER FINANCING AVAILABLE!
real estate • golf • mountain bike • events • nordic • snowshoe • fat bike • restaurant JUGMOUNTAINRANCH.COM
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Idaho Botanical Garden—Winter Garden aGlow When: Nov. 22nd–Jan. 1st Where: 2355 N Old Penitentiary Road, Boise, ID 83712 Description: You may have seen the Garden in bloom in summer, but have you seen it glow in the winter? Join us at Winter Garden aGlow, at the Idaho Botanical Garden, Presented by Mountain America Credit Union and Sponsored by Albertsons Companies, Treasure Valley Ford Dealers Lithia Ford
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Lincoln of Boise, and Idaho Power. See our dazzling display of over 380,000 sparkling lights artfully displayed throughout the holiday season. Special guest, Santa, will visit from the North Pole select nights and the Holiday Express, a G-scale model train, will wind its way through the glowing winter wonderland. Local choirs will fill the air with music on select nights.
DEC13-24
12 Days of Christmas at Payette! When: Dec. 13th–Dec. 24th
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BOISEEVENTS
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Where: Payette Brewing Co. Tap Room, 733 S Pioneer Street, Boise, ID 83702 Description: Celebrate 12 Days of Christmas at Payette Brewing! Events + deals leading up to Christmas in the Tap Room and our online store!
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Twin Oaks Farm Winter Wonderland When: Dec. 20th–End of Season Where: Twin Oaks Farm, 3250 N Eagle Road, Eagle, ID 83616 Description: We invite you to join us as we bring you Twin Oaks Farms Winter Wonderland. Campfires, tractor-drawn wagon rides, farm animals, holiday lights display, tubing hill (on weather permitting days), big screen movies, nerf gun battlefield, kiddie holiday straw maze, baby barn straw jump, Santa’s Elves, manger scene, and much more Famous Idaho Potatoe Bowl When: Fri, Dec. 21st, 2019 at 2pm Where: Albertsons Stadium, 1400 Bronco Lane, Boise, ID 83706
35th Annual YMCA Christmas Run When: Sat, Dec. 22nd, 10am– 11:30am Where: Treasure Valley Family YMCA, 1050 W State Sreet, Boise, ID 83702 Description: Celebrate the holiday season as a family by running or walking together. ‘Tis the season for bells, holiday costumes, carolers and Santa! Join us for the Christmas Run Presented by Saint Alphonsus. Miracle on Idaho Street When: Christmas Day, 10am–3pm Where: Old Chicago Restaurant, 730 W Idaho Street, Boise, ID 83702 Description: Over 1,000 of Boise’s homeless and displaced guests will
DECEMBER - JANUARY arrive at Old Chicago for a Christmas Day celebration. Each guest will receive a warm welcome and an extraordinary dining experience, a finely dressed table and a meal with all the trimmings.
Description: Once again Bogus Basin will be bringing you a New Year’s Celebration. Join us on New Year’s Day for family-friendly skiing/riding, music, evening skiing, and of course a spectacular fireworks celebration!
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Light Up The Night When: Sat, Dec. 29th, 4:30pm–8pm Where: Brundage Ski Resort, 3890 Goose Lake Road, McCall, ID 83638 Description: This year’s Light up the Night celebration will feature a Torchlight Parade, slope-side Fireworks Show, Aglow on the Snow kids walking parade, and food & festivities for all ages in the lodge.
DEC29
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15th Annual Steak & Crab Feed When: Sat, Jan. 5th, 2019, 6pm– 10pm Where: O’Connor Fieldhouse, 2207 Blaine Street, Caldwell, ID 83605 Description: 15th Annual Event Benefiting Caldwell American Legion Baseball and G.A.L.S. Summer Softball Leagues Live & Silent Auction | Raffle | No Host Bar | Live Band
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Idaho Potatoe Drop When: New Year’s Eve, 3pm–1am Where: Idaho State Capitol Description: Idaho’s signature holiday event that can only be truly experienced LIVE at the Idaho State Capitol! The Idaho® Potato Drop is a free and charitable community event that supports local arts, business and charities.
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Winter Blues Weekend: Blues Addicts, SUDA, RJ McGinnis Band When: Sat, Jan. 12th, 7:30pm–10pm Where: Riverside Hotel, 2900 W Chinden Boulevard, Boise, ID 83714 Description: Join us for the Winter Blues Weekend presented by the Boise Blues Society & The Sapphire Room!
Bronco Men’s Basketball vs. Oregon When: Sat, Dec. 29th, 530pm Where: Taco Bell Arena, 1401 Bronco Lane, Boise, ID 83706
DEC31-JAN1
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Elton John: Farewell Yellow Brick Road When: Fri, Jan. 11th, 2019, 8pm Where: Toco Bell Arena, 1401 Bronco Lane, Boise, ID 83706 Description: Elton John the Farewell Yellow Brick Road World Tour
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New Year’s Day Fireworks & Torchlight Parade When: Tues, Jan. 1st, 2019, 6:15pm– 8pm Where: Bogus Basin
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Christmas Tree Dilemma: Live or Artificial? BY DEE FER R IS
When it comes to being
naughty or nice, the debate over Christmas trees could fuels a national bonfire. Should the tree be freshly cut, live or artificial? A recent Nielsen survey by American Christmas Tree Association shows three quarters of households display a tree and 80 percent are artificial. However, the survey also pointed out that environmental myths about choosing real trees weigh heavily on our conscience. Full disclosure: I’m a real tree advocate, and generally cut my own, either at a tree farm or in the wild, where all it takes is a $10 permit through the U.S. Forest Service and a slog through the snow with muscle enough to drag a pine. Farmers work hard to grow the world’s perfectly groomed firs, each 6ft tree requiring 10 to 12 years to grow. Picking out and cutting your own tree is a holiday tradition for many. Even heading to your local nursery and choosing a mini-live tree while drinking hot cocoa can be a holiday special event. The average national price $75. Alternatively, advocates of artificial trees point out the cost savings amortized over years, (average cost: $107,) the reuse-ability and even the American retro-charm. Sure, I’ve eyed those silver trees as a tongue-in-cheek option but have
yet to pull the trigger. It might appear more hipster, but the bows’ aluminum sheen, albeit sustainable, look more Vegas than jolly to me. What about the carbon footprint of each option: a cut tree, a real tree with a root ball that can be planted, and an artificial tree? Real trees, whether grown in the wild or on farms, put out tons of oxygen. Real trees help keep the air clean and provide habitat for wildlife. Purchasing “real” provides local tree-farmers with sustainable income. Having one in your home is like living in the woods for a few weeks. The greenery smell, the fresh oxygen, the nostalgia—it all adds up to enhanced holiday spirit. Afterward, we disassemble the riot of ornaments, tinsel, garlands, lights and drag the tree outside. Boise has a free, tree recycling program, turning trees into mulch and bark for city parks. You can also remove the branches to use as winter cover over landscaping. The wood can be cut up and burned the following year as firewood. Any of these actions will help reduce a dead tree’s carbon footprint by 80 percent, versus dumping it in landfill. And of course, planting any live tree is simply good karma. Now, let’s consider those pink, blue, snowy white or forest green ar-
tificial trees so beloved by mid-century stylists and our grandparents. Where did this faux-phase begin? The first artificial trees hit the market in the 1930s and were built by a U.S. company that made cleaning brushes and toilet cleaners. So, technically the first artificial tree—(remember, it could still be in someone’s living room!)—was a giant toilet bowl scrubber. Today, about 20 million artificial trees are purchased each year. Let’s face it, the best part about PVC trees are convenience; no shedding of needles, watering demands or slog through the snow. They’re easily assembled with authentic looks and features like built-in LED lights However, they are made from petroleum-based, non-biodegradable plastic, which releases toxic dioxins over time. Once you throw your artificial tree away, it will live in the landfill forever. Whichever tree you choose for the holidays, I just hope it makes you feel like singing:
“Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree How lovely are thy branches.”
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FINDING A ‘FOREVER HOME’ FOR CAMP RAINBOW GOLD By Dana DuGan
Above, left: All dressed up for a dance, the Barker family, of Eagle, celebrate with other Rainbow Gold families at Camp Perkins. Left: Byron Barker, right, and two of his four children have fun during family week in the Sawtooths. Photos courtesy of Lonnie Leavitt-Barker. Left: Making lifelong friends is one of the benefits of Camp Rainbow Gold. Photo courtesy of Camp Rainbow Gold
Thirty-five years ago, a remarkable organization called Camp Rainbow Gold was founded in South Central Idaho. For most of those years, the free week-long camp for children diagnosed with cancer was held in the Sawtooth Mountains, about 14 miles north of Ketchum. The camp grew. Extra camps for siblings and families were added. A
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college scholarship and a teen support group were established. More campers meant more weeks and the need for more beds. Until finally, Cathedral of the Pines began busting at the seams. At that point the directors of the camp and its board began the search for a forever home. Lonnie Barker, the mother of four, whose son was diagnosed with cancer
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at two years old, has sent her three daughters to sibling camp for years. “When a child is diagnosed the entire family is diagnosed,” she said. “The world was jerked off its axis for all of us. One of the doctors at Mountain States Tumor Institute said you have to send the girls to Camp Rainbow Gold. It’s exactly what they need.” Barker admitted she was hesitant
Camp Rainbow Gold opens its arms each year to children diagnosed with cancer as well as their families at various camps held each summer. Below: Soldier Mountain Ranch & Resort, in Camas County, is the probable location for a “Forever Home” for Camp Rainbow Gold, and Idaho 501(c)3. Photos courtesy of Camp Rainbow Gold but she did her due diligence, and off the three girls went the following summer. “When we picked them up from the bus after that first week there wasn’t enough air in the car for them. They were talking over each other, and bubbling up and over. It was all about them; an escape from all things cancer.” Needless to say the family became devotees of Camp Rainbow Gold. The family has also attended family camp together. However, last summer, due to lack of room and a lottery system, one sister stayed home. “There were lots of tears,” Barker said. For this reason, the Barkers are acutely aware of how much it means for the camp to have a forever home with enough room to accommodate those with needs.
“It’s magical and everyone is in the same boat,” she said. “Kids automatically bond with each other. I can’t begin to explain how much that means. They equate sibling camp with Christmas; it’s as big of a deal. Through the brutal, dark days, the brightest light for us has been Camp Rainbow Gold.” In 2017, CRG thought they’d found an ideal location in the Wood River Valley, but the deal fell through due to zoning issues. Now, there is a new possibility boasting lots of room and possibilities for the future. The 150-acre Soldier Mountain Ranch and Resort, nestled at the base of the 10,000-foot peaks of the Soldier Mountains, 101 miles from Boise; 89 miles from Twin Falls; and 49 miles from Hailey. The location is well-suited to serve the three valleys that Camp Rainbow Gold serves, and is also
between three area hospitals. “This one is appealing because it already has 26 structures,” said Elizabeth Lizberg, CRG executive director. “This opportunity changes our need to build a camp from the ground up, which would be an immense cost-savings and will allow us to run a smaller capital campaign. We’re optimistic for many reasons.” For children with cancer, those actively fighting the disease and those in remission, the camp is a touchstone, a place to make like-minded friends, to support each other and mostly to enjoy a childhood in the wilderness. For the campers, the staff and volunteers— some 300 each year—Camp Rainbow Gold is home, wherever it’s located. For more information on how you can help Camp Rainbow find a “Forever Home,” visit camprainbowgold.org.
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S S ttA Ay yC Ca aTT
i i O O n n !! BoIs
E BoUtIqU HoTeLs e
B y D eE FeR rIs This Thanksgiving, my spouse and I decided to go on a staycation—a hotel stay in one’s own hometown. We had no culinary obligations except to show up at a friend’s home with pie that would not be harshly judged if storebought. So, we watered the plants, locked the front door and headed out for a long weekend of food, museum visiting and holiday shopping. We also yearned for a sense of adventure and an escape from the Sisyphean chores that pummel homeowners. We booked a suite at The Modern Hotel on Grove Street in the Linen District. There are five such suites, each with a separate bedroom, wet bar, microwave and fridge, allowing us to keep the pie 30
fresh. While there, we whipped up appetizers to go with our craft cocktails procured from the excellent downstairs bar. And at least one of those nights we took advantage of the hotel restaurant’s local, seasonal fare. My favorite: Brussels Sprouts Gorgonzola with garlic, chili flakes and fried shallots I admit, I’m obsessed with boutique hotels. But this staycation inspired another idea. When co-workers from afar are in town, they need a good bed and homey amenities for an extended stay. This is where the Watercooler and Stay Alfred at The Fowler come in. Each provides various options including kitchenettes and other comforting necessities. The Watercooler offers a con-
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venient option for visitors shopping for a new home. The contemporary apartments have full kitchens, laundry and dishwashers. One suite has a work desk with computer and printer. Visitors receive discounts the longer they stay. Txikiteo (a Basque word meaning pub crawl) is right downstairs and serves an international menu or tapas and charcuterie dishes with an extensive wine and beer list. A friend from Los Angeles recently bunked at Stay Alfred, an apartment building on Broad Street with suites. It reminded us of newer apartments in New York City, complete with access to a communal rooftop garden, a hip craft-cocktail bar and gourmet pizza restaurant, The Wylder. Next
Above: Original art adds surprise to rooms at The Inn at 500. Left: The Grove offers hospitality suites connected to CenturyLink Arena.
door is the coffee shop, Form & Function, where I satisfy my need for a daily croissant and a stroll through the historic Basque Block, Julia Davis Park or the stunning, new Idaho History Museum. A few blocks beyond, Hotel 43 offers customized stay packages, including an intriguing, couples retreat. Several suites, some quite roomy, have such amenities as step-out balconies with views of the Idaho Capitol Building and surrounding foothills. Many rooms also have microwaves, wet bars, refrigerators, spa robes and oversized jet tubs. Hotel 43 is also home to a fitness center, the Metro Café, as well as one of Boise’s best fine dining establishments, Chandler’s Steakhouse, fea-
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turing a famous 10-minute martini and live jazz nightly. Guests also receive a complimentary Arts Passport, and free admission to the Boise Art Museum. Trivia bonus—what is the origination of the hotel’s name? Idaho is the 43rd state and star on the U.S. flag. On nearby Front Street, the more classic, Grove Hotel sits with superlative views and convenient access to Boise Centre on The Grove, the year-round hub of
community events from winter’s Festival of Trees to summer’s Alive at Five. An ideal home-away-fromhome, the Grove has a killer fitness gym with a pool, spa services and classes. Plus, there’s a lobby bar and restaurant, Trillium. One truly unique feature is its literal connection to the CenturyLink Arena, also known as home to the Idaho Steelheads hockey team. Imagine watching the pucks fly during practice and games from a comfy couch
Top: Excellence defines Chandlers Steakhouse adjoining Hotel 43. Bottom: The BSU Suite at Inn at 500 is booked a year in advance for game days.
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with a cold one. Another Grove bonus: Idaho residents can book rooms at a special resident rate. Sharing the same downtown intersection, the Inn at 500 resembles a French Chalet with Idaho flair. Billed as a luxe boutique hotel, the 500 (as locals call it) includes expected perks like valet parking along with surprises like private balconies, original artwork in every room and butler’s pantries for room service delivery. Exceptional staycations demand extra-extravagance, which the Inn delivers with rooms artfully decorated in various local landmark themes. Who knew you could stay ala décor of The Flicks, Boise Art Museum, the Egyptian Theatre or Boise State University for an entire weekend? A word to the wise staycationer—book ahead. The BSU suite, with two bedrooms and sitting room, can be reserved a year in advance for every single game weekend by avid Bronco fans! No problem really, as every room has a refrigerator and cozy fireplace, and the onsite restaurant, upscale Richard’s, is run by James Beard nominated and local favorite chef, Richard Langston. Guests even receive 10 percent off during happy hour. To me, the definition of staycation always includes exclamation marks: Have fun! Relax! Indulge! Forget about the chores waiting at home! Or, in three simple words: Boise’s boutique hotels!
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Clients often
light from outside. ask if it’s possible to Try accent pieces accentuate natural that are made from light in a home metal (such as while creating the silver), rather than illusion of space. ceramic or wood, The expansion of that will communiurban living in the cate with the light Treasure Valley apof your space by repears to have finalflecting it outward. ly realized a sweet Install large wall spot between luxumirrors in strategic ry and convenience locations—such as Boise’s urban as opposite accent center expands lights—to create its infrastructure the optical illusion and footprint. The of doubling the coveted ideal of actual space while land ownership as further reflecting an inherent compothe natural window nent of real estate light. Favor glass investment is—in and nickel table theory—compenpieces over wood. sated for by height Mix antiques with and light in urban contemporary acdesign. cents and enjoy an Many loft spaces expansive feel in an feature elevated ceilotherwise enclosed ings of fourteen feet space. or more and copious All of these amounts of wintips can help to C R Y S TA L , M I R R O R , & L I G H T: dows. Drawing the create a feeling of T H E I L L U S I O N O F E X PA N S I O N eye upward helps to expansion in urban maximize the feeling residences that don’t of height in loft spacoffer outdoor spaces BY GUINEVERE ALLEN es, while pulling the per se. Taking an natural light inward. eclectic approach Likewise, window drapery can Custom built pieces, such as can make this transformation fun add tremendously to the illusion library walls, can help to visually and personal. of expansion when installed just expand urban interiors when deGuinevere Allen has fifteen years under the ceiling rather than above signed from floor to ceiling rather of interior design experience and is the window frame. Add crystal than leaving space above somecurrently a design consultant with finials to drapery hardware that thing like a media cabinet. Ethan Allen. enhance and refract the natural
Secrets from Decorators
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