Images Southern Idaho: 2011

2011 | imagessouthernidaho.com ®

What’s Online Watch a video of BASE jumpers leaping from the Perrine Bridge.

southern idaho

From mild to wild Outdoor adventures beckon all

Towers of Power GE launches huge wind power project

For Art’s Sake Dozens of groups promote performing arts

sponsored by the Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

2011 edition | volume 6 ®

Southern Idaho co nte nt s F e atu r e s 12 For art’s sake

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Dozens of groups promote performing arts.

16 From Mild to Wild Outdoor adventures beckon all.

22 Local roots From sturgeon caviar to craft beer, Southern Idaho’s attitude grows from the ground up.

26 Rooms with a view Meeting, event space with unique amenities plentiful throughout Magic Valley.

28 action packed intinerary No matter the season, threeday adventures are easy to come by in Southern Idaho.

32 Towers of Power GE launches huge wind power project.

Inside: Southern Idaho Tourism

Special Section

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Digital Edition Betsy Wiesmore paddles the Snake river PHOTO BY JEFF ADKINS

FROM THE

Mild TO THE

Wild OUTDOOR ADVENTURERS CAN GET THEIR FILL IN SOUTHERN IDAHO

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d e pa r tm e nt s

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8 Almanac 36 Biz Briefs 39 Chamber Report 40 Economic Profile 41 Health & Wellness 45 Arts & Culture 46 Sports & Recreation

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49 Fun Things To Do 51 Education 55 Local Flavor

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56 Community Profile

on the cover Wind turbines in Hagerman Photo by Todd Bennett All or part of this magazine is printed on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

Please recycle this magazine

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Southern Idaho

What’s Online imagessouthernidaho.com

Project Manager Courtney Seiter Proofreading Manager Raven Petty Content Coordinator Jessica Walker Staff Writer Kevin Litwin Copy Editors Lisa Battles, Jill Wyatt Contributing writers Brandon Lowe, Joe Morris, Megan Pacella, Eric Seeger, Braxton Shoop Media Technology Director Christina Carden Senior Graphic Designers Laura Gallagher, Jessica Manner, Janine Maryland, Kris Sexton, Candice Sweet, Vikki Williams Media Technology Analysts Chandra Bradshaw, lance Conzett, Michele Niccore, Marcus Snyder Photography Director Jeffrey S. Otto Senior Photographers Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers Todd Bennett, Antony Boshier Web Content Managers John Hood, Kim Madlom Web Design Director Franco Scaramuzza Web Designer Leigh Guarin Web developer i Yamel Hall Ad Production Manager Katie Middendorf Ad Traffic Assistants Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan I.T. Director Yancey Bond Regional Sales Manager Chris Sweeney Sales Support/Community, Business, Custom Rachael Goldsberry Senior Accountant Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinator Diana Guzman Office Manager/Accounts Receivable Coordinator Shelly Miller Integrated Media Manager Paul Tarrants Sales Support Manager Cindy Hall color imaging technician Alison Hunter Chairman Greg Thurman President/Publisher Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales Todd Potter, Carla Thurman Senior V.P./Operations Casey Hester Senior V.P./Client Development Jeff Heefner V.p./External Communications Teree Caruthers V.P./Custom Publishing Kim Newsom V.P./Visual Content Mark Forester V.P./Content Operations Natasha Lorens V.P./Sales Charles Fitzgibbon, Herb Harper, Jarek Swekosky Controller Chris Dudley Content Director/Travel Publications Susan Chappell Content Director/Business Publications Bill McMeekin Marketing Creative Director Keith Harris Distribution Director Gary Smith Executive Secretary Kristy Duncan Human Resources Manager Peggy Blake Receptionist Linda Bishop

Photos See more photos in our online photo gallery Get the inside scoop from our photographers’ blog

2011 | imAgeSSouthernidAho.Com ®

What’s Online watch a video of BASe jumpers leaping from the Perrine Bridge.

Southern idAho

From mild to wild Outdoor adventures beckon all

Images Southern Idaho is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses.

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For more information, contact: Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce 858 Blue Lakes Blvd. North • Twin Falls, ID 83301 Phone: (208) 733-3974 • Fax: (208) 733-9216 www.twinfallschamber.com Visit Images Southern Idaho online at imagessouthernidaho.com ©Copyright 2010 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved.

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For Art’s Sake Dozens of groups promote performing arts

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Almanac

Welcome to Southern Idaho An introduction to the area’s people, places and events

Hit the Jackpot

Welcome to Rupert The city of Rupert is located within the Snake River Plain, which was created by the hot spot that now lies under Yellowstone National Park. The community of 5,300 residents is known as a Gem City, a Tree City USA, an Idaho Heritage City and is officially named “Christmas City USA.” One of its most visited attractions is Rupert Square, and the community is deeply involved in the restoration of the beautiful and historic Wilson Theatre that was constructed in 1920. A total of $2.5 million is currently raised for the extensive renovation project.

The Nevada gaming destination of Jackpot is less than a mile from the Idaho border on U.S. Route 93.

It is popular with Twin Falls residents as well as other people from Idaho and neighboring states.

Jackpot is only a 45-minute drive from Twin Falls, and the destination got its start when Idaho outlawed all forms of casino gaming in 1954. “Cactus Pete” Piersanti and Don French moved their slot machine operations from Idaho to the Jackpot town site, and Piersanti is credited for founding Jackpot and for naming it.

Today, Jackpot is often considered part of the Greater Twin Falls region. The largest casino in the unincorporated town is Cactus Petes resort.

Ooh La La Only five years ago, many storefronts on Main Street in Twin Falls’ historic district were empty. But today, downtown is hopping with speciality shops like cookware store Rudy's – A Cook's Paradise and Ooh La La, a fashion and consignment boutique for women and juniors.

When you work up a thirst from all the shopping, head over to O'Dunken's corner pub, which offers customers a choice of 20 different beer taps on-site.

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Jump, Jump The ramp still exists where notorious motorcycle daredevil Evel Knievel attempted to jump the Snake River Canyon in September 1974. And that ramp has become somewhat of a tourism destination.

Knievel tried to jump the 500-foot-deep, quarter-mile-wide chasm at the canyon's south rim, but crashed on his steam powered “skycycle� because of a parachute malfunction. He survived with only a broken nose because he ultimately landed on rock, not plunging to the river below.

A monument at the Buzz Langdon Visitor Center in Twin Falls immortalizes the event that day.

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Picture This This photo of wild sagebrush won the 2010 Images Southern Idaho Facebook Photo Contest.

Submitted by Christina Gonzales, the photo was taken by Matt Greer at the Conservation, Seeding & Restoration Inc. fields in Kimberly, Idaho.

The plant is Arrowleaf Balsamroot, one of the most quintessential native plants in Idaho. The plant must mature many years before it blooms.

Go to www.facebook.com/ ImagesSouthernIdahomagazine to see all the photo contest entries and to share your own stunning shots.

If Golf Is Your Bag Many golf courses in this region are within a short driving distance – pun intended.

For example, Canyon Springs Golf Course is located next to the Snake River, providing majestic scenery – including a waterfall – to go along with quality golf. The 6,452-yard course is relatively flat, making it easy to walk. The climate in the canyon is warmer than most of the surrounding area, and as a result the course is open year round.

Other top venues are the city-owned Twin Falls Golf Club as well as Blue Lakes Country Club, which is the premier private course in the area. The country club offers beautiful views with holes located adjacent to the Snake River and Blue Lakes.

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Paddling Paradise Southern Idaho is a paddling paradise for canoeists and kayakers, with the average whitewater experience tending to be more intense than in other states.

There are several rental businesses in Magic Valley, including the new Pryor Paddle Rentals that is owned by Tim and Monica Pryor of Twin Falls. The couple launches canoes and kayaks from the boat launch at Centennial Waterfront Park.

The beautiful scenery of Southern Idaho and the sunlight sparkling on the water are reasons why adventurers from around the world travel here for canoeing and kayaking experiences.

Southern Idaho At A Glance Population (2009 estimate) Cities: Twin Falls: 42,741; Jerome: 9,593; Burley: 9,252; Hailey: 8,075; Rupert: 5,225; Buhl: 4,109; Kimberly: 3,248; Gooding: 3,209; Heyburn: 2,771; Wendell: 2,430; Filer: 2,227; Shoshone: 1,610; Hansen: 1,051; Paul: 945; Hagerman: 823; Hazelton: 771; Oakley: 718; Minidoka: 122

Location The largest city in south-central Idaho, Twin Falls is about 30 miles north of the Idaho-Nevada state line and roughly midway between Boise and Pocatello.

For More Information Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce 858 Blue Lakes Blvd. N. Twin Falls, ID 83301 Phone: (208) 733-3974 Fax: (208) 733-9216 www.twinfallschamber.com

Counties: Twin Falls: 75,296; Blaine: 22,328; Cassia: 21,698; Jerome: 21,262; Minidoka: 19,226; Gooding: 14,430; Lincoln: 4,645

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Fast Facts n Twin Falls County was named for the falls of the Snake River. The surrounding area is known as the Magic Valley. n The National Pioneer Hall of Fame in Burley features a garden and museum. n The Gooding Basque Cultural Center serves a multi-course Basque supper the first Friday of each month. n The Skandi Dag Scandinavian Festival is held each June in Freedom Park in Burley. n The entire community of Oakley is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Founded in 1878, many of the city’s Victorian buildings date to the 1880s.

C ASSIA UTAH

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For

Sake Southern Idaho houses dozens of organizations and groups that promote performance art

Story By Megan Pacella

S

outhern Idaho is known for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor recreation spots, but also tucked away in the areas surrounding Twin Falls is a burgeoning performing arts scene.

With the Magic Valley Symphony, the College of Southern Idaho’s Fine Arts Center and Howells Opera House all boasting more than 50 years of history, Southern Idaho has a vibrant arts scene that attracts performance art buffs from all over.

Southern Idaho Symphonies If you’re looking for a classic cultural experience, try the Magic Valley Symphony or the Sun Valley Symphony, both of which put on award-winning performances each year. Located in the Magic Valley, the Magic Valley

Symphony boasts a 50-year history of performing with noted artists and guest conductors.

Founded in 1985, the Sun Valley Summer Symphony is the largest privately funded, free-admission symphony in America. Now in its 26th year, the Sun Valley Symphony continues to welcome internationally acclaimed guest artists and distinguished musicians from symphonies in major cities all over the country. Throughout the years, both the Magic Valley Symphony and the Sun Valley Summer Symphony have developed a long tradition of encouraging young musicians to sharpen their performance skills. Both symphonies sponsor a youth orchestra, as well as a number of music camps, workshops and scholarship programs.

Top: Theater group Company of Fools Bottom right: The College of Southern Idaho’s Fine Arts Center, home of the Magic Valley Symphony

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Todd Bennett

Staff Photo

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Magic Valley Performance Arts Oakley, Idaho, might be a small town, but it’s not too small to house Howells Opera House. Built in 1907

by Judge Howells, the Opera House originally opened as a theater. But thanks to its impressive acoustics and large size, the facility only hosted high-drama plays; thus, it was coined an opera house.

Today, Howells Opera House is run by the Oakley Valley Arts Council, and the renovated building holds plays, musicals and other performances.

To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit www.oakleyvalleyarts.org.

Southern Idaho is also a hot spot for theater troupes and musical companies.

A performance of Annie at the Howells Opera House

Longest

1122 Blue Lakes Blvd. N ★ Twin Falls, ID ★ (208) 293-8809 14 i m agesso u t h e r n ida h o . c o m

Since 1996, Company of Fools in Hailey has contributed to the artistic culture in Southern Idaho by holding theater performances and putting on arts-ineducation programming. Company of Fools strives to motivate the community by encouraging members to participate in theater and appreciate the arts. For more information, visit www.companyoffools.org.

The Junior Musical Playhouse Company (a.k.a. the JuMP Company) is a nonprofit organization that provides an opportunity for students in grades one through 12 to participate in musical theater. Every year, local professionals assist the JuMP Company in presenting two musical productions. When the company is not rehearsing for a show, it offers theater workshops. For more information about the JuMp Company, visit www.jumpcompany.org.

Other performance groups and

venues in the Southern Idaho area include the Dilettante Group of Magic Valley, the Magic Valley Little Theatre and the King Fine Arts Center in Burley.

Twin Falls Center for the Arts The newest addition to the Twin Falls arts scene is the Center for the Arts, which opened in late 2010 and, located in the River Vista development on the Snake River Canyon rim, provides a space where art aficionados can gather to celebrate life and art in the Magic Valley. Boasting an outdoor plaza, a two-story atrium, an auditorium and multipurpose rooms used for classes, the Magic Valley Arts Council-operated Twin Falls Center for the Arts cultivates all types of art and the people who love them. For more about the Center for the Arts, visit www.twinfallscenter.org.

Over the Top Southern idaho’s theater group, company of fools, is celebrating its 15th season, which began in July 2010 and will continue through March 2011. The company’s goal for this milestone season is to provide entertainment that is “over the top.” With performances such as The 39 Steps, Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, Moonlight and Magnolias, and Dead Man’s Cell Phone, audiences are sure to be entertained to the fullest … and then some.

Visit the Company of Fools website at www.companyoffools.org for schedules and to buy tickets.

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Paddling the Snake River photo by jeff adkins

From the

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Wild Outdoor adventurers can get their fill in Southern Idaho

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Jeff Adkins

Story By Brandon Lowe

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hether you’re a thrill seeker or happy to be just a sightseer, outdoor recreational opportunities abound in Southern Idaho. Here are some great options for three different speeds.

Mild For those seeking a laid back experience, bird watching is a favorite pastime in Southern Idaho. And few places provide a more diverse viewing experience than Lake Walcott State Park. Located on the edge of Idaho’s high desert, the park draws in bird experts from all over the country thanks to the hundreds of species of birds that are present there.

Wildflower hikes are popular in one of Southern Idaho’s most popular outdoor destinations, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, near the town of Arco. The after effects of volcanic activity are on full display in the preserve, where lava fields are home to hundreds of plant and animal species.

History and science lovers will find an intriguing opportunity in the fossil beds at the Hagerman Fossil Beds 18

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National Monument. The beds represent the largest concentration of Hagerman Horse fossils in North America.

Medium If you’re looking to break a sweat, hiking opportunities are seemingly endless in Southern Idaho. In terms of scenery, there are few places as breathtaking as Shoshone Falls. Known as the Niagara Falls of the West, the 212-foot-high waterfall can be viewed from several scenic overlooks in Shoshone Falls Park, which boasts plenty of hiking trails that lead to the rim of the falls canyon.

For fun on two wheels, there are plenty of mountain biking trails and backcountry single tracks in Southern Idaho. The 770,000-acre Sawtooth National Recreation Area, located in the Sawtooth National Forest, is a favorite spot. Most trails within the area are open to mountain bike users.

Skateboarding is also popular, thanks to two skate parks in the area.

Harmon Park in Twin Falls and Buhl Skate Park in Buhl make for safe and reliable venues for concrete lovers looking to tune up their skills.

Clockwise from top left: The Pioneer Mountains, which span about 50 miles near Craters of the Moon; Bird watching in Southern Idaho; White wildflowers at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve; Canoeing on the Snake River; Thousand Springs in Hagerman; Walking the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail; A cyclist rides past the Snake River Canyon.

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brian mcCord

Todd Bennett

Brian Mccord

Brian M c Cord

Jeff Adkins

Antony Boshier

Clockwise from above: Mark Kissner BASE jumps from the Perrine Bridge; More BASE jumpers leap from the bridge into the Snake River Canyon; Whitewater rafting on the Snake River; Rock climbing at the City of Rocks National Reserve

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Wild Looking for a more intense outdoor experience? Whitewater rafting is a favorite activity, especially along the Snake River through Hell’s Canyon, the deepest canyon in North America.

“Rafting through Snake River is exciting, but it’s not super dangerous,” says Kurt Armacost, owner of Hells Canyon Raft, Inc. In his time as a guide, Armacost has had rafters as young as seven and as old as 91.

Climbing opportunities are also abundant. The City of Rocks National Reserve near Almo provides one of the world’s most unique granite-based rock climbing experiences.

“The rock here is covered with hand

holds,” says Brad Shilling, Climbing Ranger for the City of Rocks National Reserve. “That makes climbing possible for beginners but also exciting for intermediate and advanced climbers.”

For true thrill seekers, there is no more exciting an opportunity in Southern Idaho than BASE jumping.

Twin Falls’ Perrine Bridge is the only man-made structure in the U.S. where jumpers armed with only their parachutes can get their kicks year round without a permit. During any given weekend, the bridge swarms with daredevils drawn by a breathtaking, 486-foot leap of faith that proves Southern Idaho can accommodate the wildest of thrill seekers.

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The Pioneer Mountains are Idaho’s second highest mountain range

By length, the Snake River is the 13th largest river in the U.S.

Blue Lakes Country Club is on 378 acres in the Snake River Canyon

Brian M c Cord

Todd Bennett

Staff Photo

Staff Photo

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Local

Roots From sturgeon caviar to craft beer, Southern Idaho’s attitude grows from the ground up

Story By Eric Seeger

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griculture has long served as the defining business of Southern Idaho, but recent farming trends are reshaping how the area produces its food and what local foodies are seeing on their menus. Twin Falls hasn’t eaten fresher and closer to the source in a long time.

You couldn’t find a better example than CloverLeaf Creamery, a small farm in Buhl, only about 20 minutes outside of Twin Falls. If you want to get a taste of the old days when men in trucks delivered milk straight from the cow to your doorstep, pick up some glass bottles of CloverLeaf’s milk for the breakfast table at Local Dish Market and Café in Twin Falls (more on them later).

CloverLeaf’s small footprint is somewhat reminiscent of how Gossner Foods got its start.

Though the cheese maker in Heyburn is a large company now, its founder, Edward Gossner Sr., emigrated from Switzerland in the 1930s and built his Swiss cheese business from the ground up.

Specializing in grains, corn and pumpkins, Kauffman Farm takes great efforts to stay in contact with the community. While their food is available at local stores, they also invite locals to the farm to buy directly. Don’t pass up the opportunity to purchase some of their Hearty Barley soup mix.

Based near the southern edge of Sawtooth National Forest, Lava Lake ranch raises organic, grass-fed lamb. The company’s staff, which is led by a biologist rather than a traditional farmer, consider themselves to be shepherds of the land as well as the flock. The organization is involved in land conservation and restoration efforts in Southern Idaho, believing that healthier grazing lands make for better lamb.

Not too far away in Hagerman, another group of biologists hope to restore natural order by raising sturgeon. Since the United States forbade the importation of Caspian caviar, demand for the delicacy has increased – leading scientists at University of Idaho’s Aquaculture Research Department to study processes that would allow caviar to be farmed in Southern Idaho. Having worked with the university’s team for many years now, local businesses like Fish Breeders Inc. and Blind Canyon Aquaranch should start delivering ethically produced sturgeon caviar to the market very soon.

For now though, sturgeon meat has already joined trout on local menus.

As diners grow to appreciate knowing where their food comes from, they’re also looking to develop that same connection with locally owned eateries and groceries. The cozy new Local Dish Market and Café puts all the area’s

Chicory root is harvested in a field at Kauffman Farm in Filer.

Learn More CloverLeaf Creamery cloverleafcreamery.com Gossner Foods www.gossner.com Kauffman Farm www.kauffmanfarm.com Lava Lake Lamb www.lavalakelamb.com University of Idaho Aquaculture Research Department www.webs.uidaho.edu/ aquaculture

photo by todd bennett

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best gourmet ingredients from nearby farms and food producers – including cheeses, meats, veggies and baked goods – onto visitors’ plates.

Grab a Sloppy Brat at lunch to sample a little of everything Southern Idaho offers. The formidable sandwich includes a bratwurst served with melted cheese and cole slaw on a fresh-baked sourdough roll – all fresh from local sources. Local Dish joins a wave of independent eateries in Twin Falls that are adding a local touch to their menus.

Anchor Bistro, which offers an extensive list of all-American favorite entrees like burgers, steaks and salads, recently began sourcing some of its meats locally.

Ketchum restaurateur Tom Nickel’s future fine dining eatery, Mesa, is set to open in 2011 on the Snake River Canyon, also heavily featuring locally produced ingredients.

And if you’re looking for live music and craft beers, don’t miss Von Scheidt Brewing Company in downtown Twin Falls. In addition to a small but inventive menu, the pub features a constant rotation of house beers, from its classic IPA to more experimental brews.

Jeff Adkins

Jeff Adkins

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Clockwise from left: Homemade ice cream at Gossner’s Magic Valley Chalet in Heyburn; Oscars swim at the Hagerman Fish Culture Experiment Station, part of the University of Idaho’s Aquaculture Research Department; Sturgeon is prepared at Snake River Grill.

Todd Bennett

Pumpkins growing at Kauffman Farm photo by todd bennett

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Rooms With a

View Meeting, event space with unique amenities plentiful throughout magic valley

Story By Joe Morris | Photography By Todd bennett

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eed to unwind in a hot spring before that big presentation? Maybe see what the alligators are up to? Perhaps a moment overlooking the Snake River Canyon? All that and more is on tap throughout Southern Idaho, thanks to a diverse and thriving community of meeting and event facilities.

Canyon Crest Dining and Event Center The view’s the thing at Canyon Crest Dining and Event Center, where more than 21,000 square feet of meeting and dining space continue to bring conventions and groups to the Magic Valley. Owners Dan and Sonja Willie built the center on the crest of the Snake River Canyon, where it overlooks Canyon Springs Golf Course, Blue Lakes Country Club and Centennial Park, not to mention the river and the Perrine Bridge.

Miracle Hot Springs, 1000 Springs Resort There are plenty of hot times to be had at Miracle Hot Springs and 1000 Springs Resort, both of which allow visitors to enjoy the area’s rich geothermally heated waters while also holding meetings, banquets or reunions. Miracle Hot Springs offers private hot pools, an outside exercise pool, massage service, camping facilities, even some alligators! (They have their own pool, not to worry.) At 1000 Springs, the waters are available in public and private settings, and there’s also camping and RV accommodations, and boat docks.

Campus Grove at Albion The rich history of Campus Grove at Albion is a draw, where the former Albion State Normal School Campus now provides a vibrant backdrop for retreats, weddings, reunions and other group activities. The 35-acre setting is just below Mt. Harrison in Albion, and also has a wide variety of

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recreational activities available, including snowmobile and ATV areas, horseback trails and more.

City of Rocks National Reserve Outside interests also prevail at the City of Rocks National Reserve, which has been a landmark since 1843 and still features wagon ruts and axle grease signatures left by settlers heading to California. The reserve is on the northern edge of the Great Basin, and offers world-class rock climbing, bird watching, mountain biking and more, while its 64 campsites allow for plenty of room to spread out. The more citified can find B&Bs, a general store, visitor center, restaurant and more in nearby Almo.

Herrett Center for Arts and Science Southern Idaho’s natural history is also on view at the Herrett Center for Arts and Science, where everything from anthropological displays to the Faulkner Planetarium dazzle visitors who are taking advantage of the facility’s meeting spaces and catering services.

Sun Valley Resort And it’s certainly hard to overlook Sun Valley, the “American Shangri-La,” which has been a resort destination for the world since Count Felix Schaffgotsch settled on it as the perfect spot for a stylish American resort.

The valley’s 4,300 acres were opened to the public in 1936, and feature the Sun Valley Lodge and Sun Valley Inn, and Mount Baldy’s “triple crown” of the Warm Springs Lodge, Seattle Ridge Lodge and River Run Lodge. Ongoing renovations and improvements continue to draw world-class skiers here, and make the valley an ideal spot for corporate retreats, family reunions and even just a weekend getaway.

Herrett Center for Arts and Science

1000 Springs Resort

Canyon Crest Dining and Event Center

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Action Packed

Itinerary No matter the season, three-day adventures are easy to come by in Southern Idaho

Story By Brandon Lowe

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f you have a few days, navigating the rural landscape of Southern Idaho can afford you the opportunity to experience one of America’s most beautiful and charming rural areas. And the best part is, getting out and experiencing Southern Idaho is as easy as a series of short drives, each of which can lead you to rich cultural and recreational experiences. From snow skiing in the winter to rafting in the summer, there is something exciting to do in the area throughout the year. And when you 28

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aren’t experiencing the sights and sounds of Southern Idaho, there are plenty of opportunities to taste the area’s hearty cuisine in a variety of friendly eateries.

With Twin Falls serving as a home base, below are two itineraries, broken down by season, to help you plan a three-day getaway in Southern Idaho.

Fall/Winter Friday Noon: From Twin Falls, go east toward Almo, where the City of

Rocks National Reserve awaits with more than 22 miles of hiking trails that vary in difficulty. Visitors to the reserve engage in other activities as well, such as horseback riding, cross country skiing, wildlife viewing and photography.

5 pm: Travel north from the City of Rocks to the town of Burley for dinner at Morey’s Steakhouse (219 East North 3rd).

7 pm: From Burley, head back south to Howell’s Opera House (118 Blaine Avenue in Oakley). Built in 1907,

City of Rocks

the uniquely constructed opera house makes for an intimate stage experience.

Saturday 8 am: Start your Saturday in nearby Hagerman with a hearty and truly Western breakfast at Snake River Grill (611 Frogs Landing). Among the breakfast features at this popular foodie haven are homemade sausage, threeegg omelets bursting with fresh veggies and one-pound breakfast burritos.

10 am: After breakfast, make the 20-mile drive north of Gooding to

Gooding County Snow Park, known to locals for one thing: sledding. “Everyone goes sledding there at some point,” says Dave Claycomb of the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation.

2 pm: After fun in the snow, head back to Twin Falls for lunch at Gertie’s Brick Oven Cookery (602 2nd Avenue South), which offers hungry customers an all-they-can-eat dining experience.

4 pm: Spend the afternoon shopping in Twin Falls. Main Avenue is the heart of downtown and home to galleries, antique shops, salons and

staff photo

specialty stores. Also nearby is Magic Valley Mall (corner of Blue Lakes Boulevard and Pole Line Road), which includes major department stores such as Macy’s, Sears and JCPenney.

7 pm: After a busy day outdoors, Snyder’s Blue Rock Vineyard and Winery (southwest of Buhl) is a great place to unwind with a New York ribeye or porterhouse. The winery is especially charming during the winter, when a large outdoor fire pit attracts patrons after their meals each Friday and Saturday evening. “People come and S o u t h e r n I da h o

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hang out for hours at a time,” co-owner Claudia Snyder says.

Sunday 8 am: Swing by Java Espress, a company originally founded in Idaho, at 1820 South Highway 30 in Heyburn for a cup of coffee or a smoothie.

10 am: Head east down I-84 toward the Sawtooth National Forest, which is home to the Pomerelle Mountain Resort.

The ski resort’s 24 slopes are an excellent place for a family to learn to ski together and cap off a three-day, cold-weather getaway in Southern Idaho.

Staff Photo

Spring/Summer Friday 6 pm: Rudy’s – A Cook’s Paradise, located at 147 Main Avenue West in Twin Falls, is the perfect place to start a weekend in Southern Idaho. On the first Friday of every month (excluding July), the cooking store serves as a place for people to eat, drink and enjoy live music – all for free.

8 pm: After sampling the food and drink at Rudy’s, venture out to discover the entire First Fridays experience. Part shopping and part party, the event features artwork, live entertainment and food at various locations around Twin Falls, all within walking distance.

Jeff Adkins

Saturday 8 am: Start your day off with a Lavender Latte or Lavender Mocha at Annie’s Lavender & Coffee Café at 591 Addison Avenue West in Twin Falls.

“People tend to crinkle their noses when we say they can eat lavender,” says Dana Jackson, co-owner of the family-run business. “We always say, ‘Just give it a try’.” The accompanying gift shop also features plenty of lavender-infused items, all of which are handmade in Idaho.

10 am: Stop by the Twin Falls Farmers Market for a shopping experience that is unique to Southern Idaho. “It’s kind of an event in itself,” says market manager Charles Stevens.

The spacious market, which convenes on Saturdays at the College of Southern Idaho Agriculture Endowment Farm on North College Road, features everything from fresh fruit to handmade, embroidered clothing and is a great place to gear up for a picnic.

Noon: Make your way to the Salmon Falls Creek Canyon, home to the world famous Balanced Rock (northwest of Castleford). The 48-foottall, wind carved rock is one of Southern Idaho’s most popular natural wonders and the adjacent Balanced Rock Park makes for an excellent picnic spot.

3 pm: Not far from Balanced Rock Park is Shoshone Falls, a must see for anyone passing through Southern Idaho. The falls are especially ideal to view during the spring and summer months when winter water runoff is at its peak.

4 pm: After a day in the sun, the Shoshone Indian Ice Caves (16 miles north of Shoshone) are a great place to cool off. The caves also feature a gift shop, museum and guided tours.

7 pm: Cap off a wonderful day of sightseeing with steak and seafood at The Canyon Crest Restaurant, located at 330 Canyon Crest Drive. Part of the Twin Falls Canyon Crest Dining and Event Center, the restaurant is perched on the south rim of the Snake River Canyon and boasts a one-of-a-kind view.

Sunday 8 am: The Hagerman stretch of the Snake River is popular among families for rafting, fishing and natural springs. There are a number of rafting outfitters offering trips for families that can be completed in one day.

6 pm: You won’t find a more beloved local favorite, or a better place to finish your three-day warm-weather getaway, than Chef Kirt Martin’s Hagerman restaurant, Snake River Grill, located at 611 Frogs Landing.

Be sure to try the chef’s most popular menu item: sturgeon.

Clockwise from top left: Shoshone Falls on the Snake River; Snowboarding at Pomerelle Mountain Resort; Downtown Twin Falls; Fishing at the Snake River; Smoked sturgeon in a mushroom and white cheddar cream pasta is a favorite at Snake River Grill in Hagerman.

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Towers of

Power GE and partners launch gigantic wind power project in Magic Valley

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The hills above Hagerman have seen an explosion in wind turbine growth over the past few years.

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Story By Megan Pacella Photography By todd bennett

T

hanks to the wide expanse of farmland that stretches across the Magic Valley, Southern Idaho will soon be home to the state’s largest wind power project. Launched by project investors GE Energy Financial Services, Reunion Power, Exergy Development Group and Atlantic Power Corp, the wind power project will originate at the Oregon Trail and stretch eight miles westward.

Comprised of 11 wind farms, the 122-turbine project will spread across 10,000 acres of active and inactive farmland in the Magic Valley.

This is great news for Magic Valley residents, who for years have anxiously awaited this project. Not only is the wind power project expected to create 34

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175 new construction jobs, it will also create approximately 25 permanent positions for operations and maintenance workers. And from an environmental standpoint, wind power is an excellent source of green energy.

The project is expected to produce enough power for 39,700 average Idaho homes, while simultaneously avoiding 331,000 short tons a year in greenhouse gas emissions. According to Exergy Development Group, that’s the equivalent of taking about 57,000 cars off the road.

Wind Power Project Boosts Magic Valley Economy Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter joined forces with GE and its partners

to propel the wind power project forward. “The renewable energy industry is breathing new life into the Idaho frontier,” said Gov. Otter.

“We’re aggressively harnessing our abundant natural resources for growth because that helps our economy, generating not only electricity but career opportunities right here at home.”

After five years of negotiations, the wind power project is finally under way.

James Carkulis, president and CEO of Exergy, said that they had worked long and hard with their partners, including local landowners, contractors and suppliers, for this project over the last five years. He added that they were committed toward bringing the right kind of difference in the lives of the

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people who live in Idaho, and that they were honest and serious about their corporate responsibility, sensitivity to the local environment and promotion of traditional Idaho and community values.

Other Green Initiatives in Magic Valley In addition to the wind power project, Southern Idaho is home to a number of other green initiatives, including geothermal energy, biomass, and wind and water energy projects.

Thanks to natural energy-producing entities such as the Snake River, geothermal power and strong winds harnessed for wind power, Southern Idaho is on the case when it comes to producing green energy.

Lisa Grow, Idaho Power’s senior vice president of power supply, stated that they had started with hydroelectric power and, through diligent planning, had successfully expanded into the next generation of alternative energy sources from this new wind project to solar, geothermal and biomass.

For more information on the wind power project or other green business initiatives in Southern Idaho, visit www.southernidaho.org.

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Seven-day access Wide-paved driveways Well-lit premises Large truck and trailer access Outside storage for recreational vehicles New tamper-free cylinder lock systems Fully fenced and gated for additional security On-site managers

Phone(208) 736-0053 1574 Elm St. N. ~ Twin Falls, ID 83301 E-mail: magicvalleystorage@gmail.com

Visit our website

www.magicvalleyselfstorage.com The Magic Valley wind power project should produce enough power for more than 39,000 homes in the area.

Follow us on Facebook & Twitter

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Biz Briefs Businesses – both large and small – that help define southern idaho’s economic climate

Scorecard Business At A Glance

$802 million Annual retail sales

$22,469 Retail sales per capita

$79 million Annual hotel and food sales

3,854 Total number of firms Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts

HAGERMAN VALLEY INN Biz: Hotel Buzz: The inn is home to 16 guest rooms that have several room size options. The Hagerman Valley Inn can accommodate families, groups, tourists or individuals just passing through.

This hotel has undergone several recent upgrades, but its rustic charm is still intact.

Visitors can enjoy nearby recreational activities such as hiking, camping, fly fishing and rafting.

Room prices usually range from $79.50 to $99.50 a night. www.hagermanvalleyinn.com 36

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ALLEGIANT AIR Biz: Airline carrier Buzz: Starting in July 2010, low-cost airline Allegiant Air began nonstop jet service between Twin Falls and Las Vegas.

Flights occur every Friday and Monday between Magic Valley Regional Airport and McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas. The airline utilizes a full-size, 150-seat jet on each route, with both departures from Twin Falls occurring at 8:50 p.m. The two arrivals to Twin Falls from Las Vegas are at 8:10 p.m. www.allegiantair.com BEAR CLAW TRADING POST Biz: Retail store Buzz: Bear Claw Trading Post in Shoshone is known for having a large variety of unusual handmade items.

Products for sale include minerals, carvings, cowboy hats, incense and hatchets, and there is also a large collection of handcrafted Navajo silver jewelry for sale. The store attracts visitors from around the world, and several of the one-of-a-kind carvings actually originate in other countries. www.youtube.com/ watch?v=PWvf6ERLdSc GLANBIA FOODS Biz: Milk and cheese processing Buzz: Glanbia Foods, headquartered in Twin Falls, is one of the country’s largest producers of cheese and wheybased ingredients, and is the largest barrel cheese manufacturer in the world. It has cheese processing plants in both Twin Falls and Gooding, and whey processing plants in Gooding and Richfield. The company is also known for giving large amounts of charitable contributions to the local community. www.glanbiausa.com

ST. BENEDICTS Family Medical Center

Health Care for the Entire Family • 24-Hour E.R.

• Physical Therapy

• Specialty Services

• Occupational Health

• Full-Scope Family Practice

• Diabetes Management

• Obstetrical Care

• Childbirth and Breast Feeding Education

• Transitional Care Unit

Call: (208) 324-4301

or visit www.stbenshospital.com for more information 709 N. Lincoln Ave. • Jerome, ID 83338

CLOVERLEAF CREAMERY Biz: Local dairy Buzz: CloverLeaf Creamery in Buhl on South Broadway oversees a pasture of 60 Holstein cows that graze on 40 acres.

Dairy products produced at CloverLeaf include bottled milk, ice cream, butter and half-and-half, and cows at the dairy farm often live and milk well into their teenage years, thanks to organic feeding. No additives are in any of the CloverLeaf products, and all products are vitamin fortified. www.cloverleafcreamery.com

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Get the story

“Bridging the Magic Valley to the Rest of the World”

behind the

photo Now that you've experienced Southern Idaho through our photos, see it through the eyes of our photographers. Visit imagessouthernidaho.com to view our exclusive photographers' blog documenting what all went into capturing those perfect moments.

• Free Parking • Fast, Convenient and Friendly Joslin Field MagiC Valley Regional aiRPoRt

492 airport loop twin Falls, id 83301 (208) 733-5215 www.tfid.org

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Chamber Welcomes Visitors Tourism attractions help drive economy

S

hawn Barigar admits that tourism is a key driver of the economy in Southern Idaho, and outdoor recreation is the greatest reason why people like to visit.

The president and CEO of the Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce points out that there are dozens of outdoor recreational activities available throughout the region, and he suggests that visitors might want to stop at a local visitor center before beginning their adventure.

“I’m headquartered at the Buzz Langdon Visitor Center in Twin Falls, which is on the south rim of the Snake River Canyon,” he says. “The building is right next to the Perrine Bridge, where you can see BASE jumpers parachuting.”

The Twin Falls building is open from March through October, but a number of other visitor centers throughout Southern Idaho are open year round.

“The Buzz Langdon facility welcomes 34,000 people a year and is staffed with volunteers who are eager to share their knowledge of this region where they live,” Barigar says. “They are happy to provide information to visitors about all of the mild-to-wild recreational opportunities in Southern Idaho.”

Those opportunities can include taking a casual walk along the developed trails along the canyon, or rock climbing at the City of Rocks National Reserve near Almo. But the outdoor recreational activity that is perhaps best known in Southern Idaho is BASE jumping off Perrine Bridge.

BASE is an acronym for four categories of fixed objects from which a person can parachute jump: buildings, antennae, spans (bridges) and earth (cliffs).

“We are the only place in the United States that doesn’t require a permit to BASE jump,” Barigar says. “We’ve had jumpers travel here from all seven continents except Antarctica – we haven’t had any penguins yet. But people from as far away as Australia

have journeyed here specifically for the BASE jumping off Perrine Bridge.”

Other popular outdoor activities in Southern Idaho include fishing, hunting, mountain biking, swimming, boating and whitewater rafting.

“Southern Idaho has a four-season climate that is ideal for adventure seekers,” Barigar says. “We’ve got trails, rivers, canyons, mountain bike paths –

even the winter months are busy with snowmobiling, show shoeing and skiing. I invite everyone to come stay and play in Southern Idaho.”

For more about the Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, including tourism information for Southern Idaho, visit the chamber’s website at www.twinfallschamber.com.

– Kevin Litwin

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economic profile BUSINESS CLIMATE Job creation here has made Twin Falls one of the state’s most robust economic engines in recent years. Good work prospects for job seekers and a moderate climate for retirees have helped keep Twin Falls County’s population on a steady growth.

income

$22,880 Per Capita Income

$45,261 Average Annual Household Expenditure

TRANSPORTATION Twin Falls Airport 492 Airport Loop Twin Falls, ID 83301 (208) 733-5215 Trans IV Bus P.O. Box 1238 Twin Falls, ID 83307 (208) 736-2133

TAXES

6%

workforce

State Sales Tax

32,166

6%

Total Workforce

Total Sales Tax

75%

1.741%

White Collar

Residential Property Tax

major employers Twin Falls’ largest employers: Amalgamated Sugar Company Clear Springs Foods College of Southern Idaho Con Agra/Lamb-Weston, Inc. Glanbia, Inc.

Education

82% High School Graduates

Associate Degree

Intermountain Gas K&T Steel Corporation

16%

St. Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Center

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Blue Collar

33%

Independent Meat

40

25%

Bachelor’s Degree or Higher

ECONOMIC RESOURCES Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce 858 Blue Lakes Blvd. N. Twin Falls, ID 83301 (208) 733-3974 www.twinfallschamber.com Jerome Chamber of Commerce 104 W. Main St. Jerome, ID 83338 (208) 324-2711 www.visitjeromeidaho.com Mini-Cassia Chamber of Commerce 1177 Seventh St. Heyburn, ID 83336 (208) 679-4793 www.minicassiachamber.com Southern Idaho Economic Development P.O. Box 1238 Twin Falls, ID 83303 (208) 324-7408 www.southernidaho.org Twin Falls Economic Development P.O. Box 1907 Twin Falls, ID 83303 (208) 735-7240 www.tfid.org

Government Offices City of Twin Falls 321 Second Ave. E. (208) 735-7281 www.tfid.org Twin Falls County 425 Shoshone St. N. (208) 733-2499 www.twinfallscounty.org

Stay& Play

in Southern Idaho

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Stay & Play In Southern Idaho

Hagerman Valley’s Liquid Assets Go

In the Hagerman Valley, getting there is part of the adventure on the 68-mile Thousand Springs Byway, which begins in Bliss and loosely follows the Snake River, winding southeast along U.S. 30 through Hagerman, Buhl and Filer to Twin Falls. Along the way are five units of Thousand Springs State Park, home to abundant wildlife watching and recreational opportunities.

Another highlight of the byway is the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center in downtown Hagerman. In addition to exhibits showcasing the topography of the land millions of years ago, the center also has a temporary exhibit interpreting the history of Minidoka National Historic Site, a Japanese internment camp during World War II.

Play

Buhl’s status as the “Trout Capital of America” should give some indication of the fine fishing to be found in the Hagerman Valley. Not only is the area known by sportsmen, but fish also keep the economy swimming along strongly: Idaho is the nation’s largest commercial producer of rainbow trout, and most of that production happens here in the Hagerman Valley.

Visitors can learn more about Southern Idaho’s aquaculture industry by following the Thousand Springs Byway to the Hagerman Wildlife Management Area, where they can tour state and federal hatcheries and craft their own big fish tales at a series of stocked ponds. In this area are the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Hagerman National Fish Hatchery, which raises more than 1.4 million steelhead and 30,000 rainbow trout annually; the University of Idaho’s Hagerman Fish Culture Experiment Station; and Idaho Fish and Game’s Hagerman Hatchery, which raises primarily rainbow trout.

Guests may fish the ponds from March 1 to Nov. 1, and then during the winter months, enjoy the sights of 60,000 migrating ducks and geese. Other popular spots for fishing here include Crystal Springs Lake at Thousands Springs State Park, the Hagerman stretch of the Snake River, the Malad River and Filer Ponds.

Those who are just as happy to join the fish as catch them will find river access for boating, rafting and kayaking at Idaho Power’s eight recreational sites in the valley. There are two along the Malad River and six along the Snake River. Amenities for watercraft vary by site, but most include access for at least one type of watercraft.

Stay

After a long day of play, visitors can soak up even more of what nature has to offer – literally – at Miracle Hot Springs in Buhl. The resort uses the area’s natural hot springs for its 19 private pools and two outdoor pools, where guests may immerse themselves in the soft, odorless, high-pH water that is considered by many to have rejuvenating properties. Wind down and stay: There are tent spaces, RV sites with water and electricity hook-ups, and geodesic camping domes with hotwater-heated floors.

Travelers who prefer a boutique hotel setting will find it at the Hagerman Valley Inn, which has two cozy themed suites, a king room and 13 standard rooms – all include free cable television and high-speed Internet connections.

Eat

A true taste of Southern Idaho can be found in the Hagerman Valley, including local wine at Snyder Winery.

Offering tours and a tasting room, Snyder Winery also has a steakhouse that is open on Friday and Saturday evenings by reservation. New York steak, two-inch ribeye and salmon filet baked in parchment paper are favorite items on a menu created

by Russell Snyder, who owns the winery with his wife, Claudia.

Local flavor also is the focus of Chef Kirt Martin’s menus at another family-run operation, Snake River Grill in Hagerman.

Dine on creatively prepared, Idaho-grown products, from seasonal fruits and vegetables from area farmers markets to Kurobota pork, Kobe beef, sturgeon and trout. Martin, who starred in Outdoor Channel’s popular Cooking on the Wild Side show from 1999-2002, owns the establishment with his wife, Carol, who ensures the meals are satisfying from start to finish: she makes all of the pies.

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Todd Bennett

SEE

Brian Mccord

(800) 255-8946

Karee Parenti and her family, Jeremy, Sophia and Clayton Conner, enjoy the family-oriented lifestyle that Southern Idaho offers.

Left: A swimmer takes in one of the large heated pools at Miracle Hot Springs in Buhl.

FIND Thousand Springs Byway southernidahobyways.com Thousand Springs State Park 1074 E. 2350 S. Hagerman, ID 83332 (208) 837-4505 www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center 221 N. State St. Hagerman, ID 83332 (208) 837-4793 www.nps.gov/hafo Idaho Power Recreation Information www.idahopower.com/ourenvironment (800) 422-3143 Hagerman National Fish Hatchery 3059-D National Fish Hatchery Rd. Hagerman, ID 83332 (208) 837-4896 www.fws.gov/hagerman/

Hagerman Wildlife Management Area Idaho Fish and Game Hagerman Hatchery 1060 State Fish Hatchery Rd. Hagerman, ID 83332 (208) 837-4892 www.fishandgame.idaho.gov ‎ Miracle Hot Springs 19073A Hwy. 30 Buhl, ID 83316 (208) 543-6002 www.mhsprings.com Hagerman Valley Inn 661 Frogs Landing Hagerman, ID 83332 (208) 837-6196 www.hagermanvalleyinn.com Snyder Winery 4060 N. 1200 E. Buhl, ID 83316 (208) 543-6938 www.snyderwinery.com

Snake River Grill 611 Frogs Landing Hagerman, ID 83332 (208) 837-6227 www.snakeriver-grill.com University of Idaho Aquaculture Institute – Hagerman Station www.webs.uidaho.edu/aquaculture/ hagerman_research.asp This special section is published for Southern Idaho Tourism by Journal Communications Inc.

For more information, contact: Southern Idaho Tourism P.O. Box 5155 • Twin Falls, ID 83303-5155 Phone: (800) 255-8946 www.visitsouthidaho.com ©Copyright 2010 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080.

All rights reserved. No portion of this special advertising section may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.

On the cover: Fishing at Sawtooth National Forest Photo by Brian McCord

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Stay & Play In Southern Idaho

East Side Story

Todd Bennett

Mini-Cassia Rocks

GO

Competitive types know the race is always on, whether by land or water, in the Mini-Cassia area to the east of Twin Falls.

In January, registration opens for 1,600 coveted, lottery-drawn entries in Burley’s Spudman Triathlon, home of the world’s fastest swim course. The event itself occurs on the last Saturday of July. Burley also is home to the Idaho Regatta each June, when high-powered boats take to the Snake River to compete in the fastest inboard circle boat racing in the country. Then in September, Burley and Heyburn host the VikingMan triathlon.

Never fear: The area has many other festive occasions here that do not require rigorous advance training. The Mini-Cassia Chamber of Commerce event calendar highlights its 12 cities’ major events at www.minicassiachamber.com.

Once it’s decided when to go, discover how to go to find more adventure, scenery and history in the Mini-Cassia area: the City of Rocks Back Country Byway.

PLAY

The City of Rocks Back Country Byway begins southeast of Burley in Albion, then winds clockwise around the Albion Mountain Range, skimming along the edge of Pomerelle Ski Area, a family-friendly resort in the Sawtooth National Forest.

Pomerelle has more snow than any other skiing facility in the state, making it a huge draw for skiers and boarders in the winter. In the summer, the terrain lures hikers and mountain bikers.

The byway eventually leads to its namesake, the City of Rocks National Reserve near Almo. Here, visitors enjoy hiking, birding and snowshoeing, but put simply, the rocks rule. The reserve’s granite pinnacles – some more than 2.5 billion years old – draw climbers from around the world. Beginners should stop by the visitor center for both City of Rocks and Castle Rocks State Park, and take advantage of the parks’ new Climbing Experience Program. Participants are taken to a pre-designated climbing area to learn the very basics of rock climbing. For more customized climbing experiences, trail rides and overnight pack trips, the area also has several professional outfitters.

The scenic route ends in historic Oakley, which has the state’s largest number of old stone and wood-framed buildings,

earning the entire town a listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

Northeast of Rupert on the edge of the high desert, water sports and spectacular bird watching await at Lake Walcott State Park, where avian admirers can see an array of raptors, shorebirds, songbirds, upland birds, waterbirds and waterfowl.

STAY A truly unique choice for overnight accommodations is Campus Grove at Albion, a state-of-the-art, history-rich retreat and conference center that once was the site of Albion State Normal School, which was established in 1893. While the school closed more than 60 years ago, Miller Hall, a dormitory built in 1901, has been transformed into guest rooms and can accommodate approximately 80 people for special events.

While rooms are offered individually, the entire hall may be booked for family reunions, business retreats and other meetings.

Camping facilities dot the landscape in the Mini-Cassia area, but the Smoky Mountain Campground at Castle Rocks State Park has two especially interesting additions to offer guests – rental yurts. The park added the circular, domed tents in May 2010, and each includes electricity, Wi-Fi, a fan, a fireplace and furnishings. The yurts can sleep as many as six people and cost only $50 to reserve each, regardless of whether one or six people plan to stay.

EAT For first-rate dining in a historic setting, drift into the Drift Inn, located on Rupert’s downtown square, an area listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The restaurant is located inside the restored 1917 First National Bank building.

In Burley on the Snake River, the family-owned Morey’s Steakhouse promises “the best steak on the Snake,” but also offers chicken, fish, pork and pasta dishes, many including locally grown ingredients.

Diners can sink their teeth into spectacular steak in Almo, too, at The Outpost Steakhouse, which promises “100 percent Western Heritage steaks with all the trail blazin’ fixins,” as well as sandwiches and salads.

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Clockwise from top right: The Climbing Experience Program; Yurt campground at City of Rocks National Reserve; Bird at Lake Walcott. Far left: Lake Walcott State Park – popular spot for water skiing, power boating, windsurfing, sailing and bird watching

FIND Spudman Triathlon www.burleylions.org/spudman.html Idaho Regatta www.idahoregatta.org VikingMan www.vikingman.org City of Rocks Back Country Byway southernidahobyways.com Pomerelle Mountain Resort 961 E. Howell Canyon Rd. Albion, ID 83311 (208) 673-5599 www.pomerelle-mtn.com

Visitor Center – City of Rocks National Reserve and Castle Rocks State Park 3035 S. Elba-Almo Rd. Almo, ID 83312 (208) 824-5519 parksandrecreation.idaho.gov www.nps.gov/ciro Lake Walcott State Park 959 E. Minidoka Dam Rupert, ID 83350 (208) 436-1258 www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov

Morey’s Steakhouse 219 E. 3rd N. Burley, ID 83318 (208) 679-1166 www.moreyssteakhouse.com The Outpost Steakhouse 3020 Elba Almo Rd. Almo, ID 83312 (208) 824-5577 Campus Grove at Albion (208) 430-6430 www.albioncampusgrove.com

The Drift Inn 545 F St. • Rupert, ID 83350 (208) 436-1300 www.henrysdriftinn.com

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Stay & Play In Southern Idaho

Northern Exposure

Photos by jeff adkins

Experience Small-Town Charm in Northside Communities

GO

For a slice of small-town American life, head to the North Side, which includes the three counties north of Twin Falls: Jerome, Gooding and Lincoln.

Traditional fairs draw thousands to Jerome and Gooding counties each August. The 2011 Jerome County Fair is set for Aug. 5-13 and features everything from the expected – ag displays and contests, a midway and a demolition derby – to the unexpected, such as pig wrestling. Indeed, teams of three join a pig in a ring, and whoever catches the pig wins. There are several age groups, and of course, the size of the pigs are proportionate to the age of the people.

The 2011 Gooding County Fair and Gooding Pro Rodeo are held the following week of August, with the fair’s top draw, the rodeo, held over the closing weekend. The Gooding County Fairgrounds also is the site of the annual Gooding Basque Association Picnic held the third Sunday of July. Everyone is welcome to attend and enjoy delicious food, dancing and athletic competitions – all celebrating the area’s rich Basque cultural heritage.

Wendell is known for honoring its veterans, something especially evident in the huge turnout for its annual Memorial Day Celebration, which begins with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Wendell Cemetery and continues at the Wendell Veterans Park.

Fans of fenders and flying things will enjoy the Gooding Municipal Airport fly-in and breakfast each July and Joe Mama’s Car Show in Jerome City Park in August.

PLAY

A must-see near Shoshone from Memorial Day to Labor Day are the Shoshone Indian Ice Caves, which consist of a 1,000-foot

lava tube that maintains a thick layer of ice due to underground air currents. Guests may tour the caves, where trained guides explain how the caves were formed, along with other facts about the area’s interesting geological history.

Another lesson in natural science awaits at Craters of the Moon National Monument in Arco, where lava fields create an almost otherworldly landscape for hikers and bikers. Even when there is snowfall, guests may enjoy cross-country skiing on the monument’s winter trail. Snowshoeing is another popular activity, with planned snowshoe walks for all skill levels in January and February. The visitor center is open yearround, excluding winter holidays, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with extended summer hours.

The North Side’s many rural areas create a wonderland for year-round hunting, fishing and enjoying nature. For rainbow and brown trout catches 365 days a year, anglers head to Magic Reservoir, located 45 minutes north of Jerome. Wilson Lake, a half-hour east of Jerome, is a prime spot for perch, crappie and small-mouth bass.

Wildlife lovers know that at the 6,000-acre Camas Prairie Centennial Marsh Wildlife Management Area near Fairfield, the last 10 days of May mean dramatic stunning vistas paired with first-rate bird watching. This is when the purple camas lily for which the marsh is named is in peak bloom. Besides pronghorn antelope and the occasional deer or elk, visitors will see thousands of birds, from Canada geese and ring-necked ducks to snowy egrets and California gulls. The site has primitive camping spaces, and a stay overnight is worth the avian chatter heard when the day breaks.

STAY

The North Side offers many options for lodging. Among the

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most interesting is The Historic Gooding Hotel Bed & Breakfast in Gooding, which is still run by members of the Gooding family. It has more than 100 years of history in hospitality and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The hotel has 11 themed rooms, most with connections to the history of the town and its founding family, including a suite in honor of city founder Frank Gooding, Idaho’s sixth governor.

From Labor Day to Memorial Day, the Twin Falls/Jerome KOA is another preferred place to stay, providing accommodations for RVs and tents as well as one- and tworoom cabins and camping lodges. The campground’s services and amenities include a snack bar, free wireless Internet, a swimming pool, hot tub and sauna, mini golf and bicycle rentals, among others.

EAT

Healthy appetites are welcome here, with several local favorite restaurants at the ready to satisfy diners’ desires. In Gooding, enjoy lunch, then shop for wine, gifts and bakery items at Sweet Inspiration bistro on Main Street. Also on Main, Rowdy’s is a popular spot for pub fare and a good selection of brews. Couldn’t make it to the annual Gooding Basque Association Picnic? The association serves dinner the first Friday of every month at its cultural center.

In Jerome, dig in to slow-smoked authentic barbecue at Smokin’ Cowboys, or select from a huge variety of Mexican dishes at El Sombrero. Authentic south-of-the-border specialties may also be found in Wendell at the familyowned El Tapatio, and Farmhouse Family Restaurant, located conveniently off of I-84, is a top pick for affordable, huge servings of traditional American fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

FIND Jerome County Fair (208) 324-7209 www.jeromecountyfair.com Gooding County Fair and Gooding Pro Rodeo (208) 934 4529 www.goodingidaho.org www.goodingprorodeo.com Gooding Municipal Airport (208) 934-5934 Gooding Basque Association Cultural Center (208) 308-5051 Joe Mama’s Car Show (208) 308-8941 www.joemamascarshow.com Shoshone Indian Ice Caves (208) 886-2058 Craters of the Moon National Monument (208) 527-1335 www.nps.gov/crmo Camas Prairie Centennial Marsh Wildlife Management Area www.fishandgame.idaho.gov The Historic Gooding Hotel Bed & Breakfast (208) 934-4374 www.goodinghotelbandb.com Twin Falls/Jerome KOA (208) 324-4169 Sweet Inspiration (208) 934-4756 Rowdy’s Pub & Grill (208) 934-8003 Smokin’ Cowboys (208) 324-1008 www.smokincowboys.com El Sombrero (208) 324-7238

A runner makes his way around the loop at Craters of the Moon National Monument. Left: A walkway guides visitors through the Shoshone Indian Ice Caves.

El Tapatio (208) 536-5584 Farmhouse Family Restaurant (208) 536-6688

Get events, lodging information and more at visitsouthidaho.com

Stay & Play In Southern Idaho

Heart of the Magic Valley Explore the Twin Falls Area Visitors will find a world of information about natural history, astronomy and art at The Herrett Center for Arts & Science, located on the College of Southern Idaho campus in Twin Falls. The center’s natural history collection includes more than 18,500 anthropological and geological artifacts from around the world, and its art collection includes more than 500 works.

Space science and astronomy programs are offered in its Faulkner Planetarium and Centennial Observatory.

The Twin Falls area has many events that showcase residents’ community spirit and pride. One of the newest events in Twin Falls is The Great Cardboard Boat Regatta, held in August. Teams of all ages design and construct human-powered boats made entirely of corrugated cardboard, then race them in three runs along a 200-yard course at Dierkes Lake.

The Perrine Bridge Festival in September features a carnival, fun runs, kayak and canoe races, music, a BASE jumping exhibit and more, all to raise money for children with special needs.

PLAY

Mountain bikers flock to 50 miles of varied trails in Sawtooth National Forest’s Cassia Division, also known as the South Hills, just 40 minutes south of Twin Falls.

The Porcupine Springs Campground provides access to these trails, which also are used by hikers and horseback riders.

Other popular South Hills hiking trails include the Rim View Trail, Independence Lakes Trail and the Phantom Falls Trail.

Within the city, visitors can bike or hike on more than 10 miles of trails throughout Twin Falls, including the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail. A great place to access these trails is Shoshone Falls/Dierkes Lake Park Complex adjacent to Shoshone Falls, a must-see destination.

Known as the Niagara Falls of the West, the waterfalls actually feature longer drops – 212 feet, compared to Niagara Falls’ 176 feet.

Idaho Power controls the flow of the river to ensure that the falls flow regularly

while still meeting irrigation and power production needs, and also operates Twin Falls Park a few miles upstream of Shoshone Falls. The park includes amenities for picnics, fishing and boating on the Twin Falls Reservoir. The power company also helps ensure a spectacular experience for river kayakers and rafters, the most experienced of whom can enjoy the Murtaugh section of the Snake River, just east of Twin Falls. Idaho Power operates the Milner Dam, and when there is sufficient mountain snowfall and irrigation needs are met, enough water is released for whitewater recreation from May to June. At its peak strength, the 1-mile section of the river from the dam to the power plant provides up to a Class V level rapid.

Bar, where diners can enjoy a casual, sports-bar atmosphere. Those in search of locally crafted brews and live music head downtown to VonScheidt Brewing Co., Twin Falls’ hometown pub and brewery.

STAY

Idaho Power Recreation Information www.idahopower.com/ourenvironment

The Twin Falls area has several hotel properties offering relaxing, convenient accommodations for everyone from the individual business traveler to large bus tour groups. A recent standout is the Twin Falls Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites, which in 2010 was named one of the top seven new hotels by Intercontinental Hotels Group. Owned by The Summit Group along with 60 other properties nationwide, Holiday Inn Express is joined in Twin Falls by Hampton Inn and Comfort Inn & Suites. These three properties are conveniently located near the Snake River Canyon and other top attractions.

FIND The Herrett Center for Arts & Science www.herrett.csi.edu Perrine Bridge Festival www.perrinebridgefestival.com The Great Cardboard Boat Regatta www.twinfallschamber.com Sawtooth National Forest www.fs.fed.us/r4/sawtooth Shoshone Falls and Dierkes Lake www.tfid.org/departments/parks-rec

Twin Falls Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites www.hiexpress.com Twin Falls Comfort Inn & Suites www.comfortinn.com Twin Falls Hampton Inn www.hamptoninn.hilton.com Local Dish Market Cafe www.localdishmarketcafe.com Anchor Bistro & Bar www.anchorbistro.com VonScheidt Brewing Company (208) 733-2131

EAT

The area’s glorious natural surroundings impact every aspect of life here, including the food scene: A growing group of restaurants rely on area farms, markets and other food producers to fill their menus with local flavor. The name says it all at the new Local Dish Market Cafe, which serves daily cafe specials and a market stocked with locally produced dairy goods, organic bakery items, fresh fruits and vegetables, and all-natural and organic meats, fish and poultry. Another new restaurant that incorporates local foods into its menu is Anchor Bistro &

Special Advertising Section

jeff adkins

GO

For additional information on Idaho, call 1-800-VISIT-ID. 10-IV-1 12.5m

Health & Wellness

A Healthy Growth Medical Facilities Continue To Expand In Size and Services With new programs, services and facilities, the five major medical providers in Southern Idaho continue to ensure that the most advanced health care is available right here in the community.

North Canyon Medical Center The brand new North Canyon Medical Center in Gooding has been making a difference since the multimillion-dollar facility opened on time and under budget in early 2010.

It offers private rooms, an alldigital health records system that is integrated with affiliated doctors’ offices, a larger emergency room with two trauma bays and six exam rooms, a 16-slice CT scanner, 4-D ultrasound, digital mammography and surgical imaging. The hospital now offers surgery, and is built for expansion at every level so that it can grow with the community.

St. Benedicts Family Medical Center

What’s Online For more insight on Southern Idaho’s health and wellness offerings, head to the health care section at imagessouthernidaho.com.

Todd Bennett

This hospital has been in the heart of Jerome since 1952, offering care in obstetrics, orthopedics, diabetes management, gynecology and long-term care. St. Benedicts is operated by Trinity Health Systems and also serves the community with the Jerome Family Clinic, Fifth Avenue Clinic and the Main Street Clinic in Wendell. St. Benedicts’ physicians have access to telemedicine services, so radiologists can send digital images to specialists in Boise or elsewhere for review.

Like other rural health facilities, St. Benedicts has been able to upgrade facilities and equipment so that rural Southern Idahoans don’t have to go to larger urban settings for quality health care.

North Canyon Medical Center

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Health & Wellness

Todd Bennett

Cassia Regional Medical Center

Cassia Regional Medical Center Cassia Regional Medical Center in Burley is keeping quite busy as well, expanding and upgrading its 24-hour emergency department and other services that include critical care, surgery, a rehabilitation unit, home care and hospice, a birth center and sleep lab.

Minidoka Memorial Hospital In Rupert, Minidoka Memorial Hospital is marking its 50th anniversary by adding new services while renovating and upgrading its facilities. The next round of upgrades will include a remodeling of the emergency department and nurses' stations to incorporate a new electronic medical records system, while a new medical office building and remodeling of the nursing home are being planned within the next few years.

St. Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Center The new, state-of-the-art St. Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Center is set to open its doors in May 2011, and will be the most advanced hospital in the state. The 186-bed facility is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, and will serve the eight counties of Southern Idaho, as well as parts of northern Nevada. It will feature 160 multispecialty physicians, private rooms, a large emergency department and specialty units for cancer, heart care, women and children, as well as a mental health facility.

– Kevin Litwin

For More Information

north canyon medical center 267 N. Canyon Dr. Gooding, ID 83330 (208) 934-4433 www.ncm-c.org

minidoka memorial hospital 1224 Eighth St. Rupert, ID 83350 (208) 436-0481 www.minidokamemorial.com

cassia regional medical center 1501 Hiland Ave. Burley, ID 83318 (208) 678-4444 intermountainhealthcare.org/ hospitals/cassia

St. Benedicts Family Medical Center 709 N. Lincoln Ave. Jerome, ID 83338 (208) 324-4301 www.stbenshospital.com

st. luke’s magic valley medical center 650 Addison Ave. W. Twin Falls, ID 83301 (208) 737-2000 (800) 947-4852 www.stlukesonline.org/magic_valley

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Arts & Culture

Seeing Is Believing Magic Valley Arts Scene enhanced by devotion to visual arts

The eyes have it when it comes to arts throughout Southern Idaho, with facilities and organizations dedicated to promoting, preserving and enhancing the visual arts.

Herrett Center for Arts and Science As if all that wasn’t enough, there’s the one-stop cultural and historical extravaganza of the Herrett Center for Arts and Science on the main campus of the College of Southern Idaho.

The museum’s main purpose is education, and it collects, preserves, interprets and exhibits anthropological artifacts and natural history specimens, focusing on the prehistoric American continents.

And while the natural history galleries offer plenty to see, the Herrett also looks to the skies with the Faulkner Planetarium and Centennial Observatory.

The Faulkner is the largest planetarium theater in Idaho, seating 144 people under a 50-foot dome. It has a Digistar II digital graphics projection system, one of the most advanced in the country. The Herrett also hosts special and traveling exhibits throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see.

– Joe Morris

Twin Falls Center for the Arts

Leading the charge is the Magic Valley Arts Council, which works to promote arts and cultural experiences throughout the greater Twin Falls area. It acts as an umbrella for many different groups, and is able to help projects large and small go from idea to reality.

One such success is the Canyon Rim Public Art Project, which saw the placement of a major sculpture at the Perrine Bridge Trail View Point.

Then there’s the Arts on Tour program, which features nine performing arts productions at the College of Southern Idaho over a season that runs from September through May. The council’s other programs include Kids Art in the Park, the Missoula Children’s Theater, 2nd Century Photo Contest, the Brown Bag Lectures in conjunction with the Twin Falls Public Library, the Summer Chalk Walk at the Municipal Band Concerts and the First Friday gallery opening events that take place every other month, beginning in February, annually.

Best of all, the council is working to make its presence even more permanent with the new Twin Falls Center for the Arts. The facility will be on the Canyon Rim, and will include a small performance venue, multipurpose classroom space, an outdoor plaza with performance area and exhibit space throughout the building. It will also feature a new restaurant, and professional office space for lease.

Jeff Adkins

Magic Valley Arts Council

Schafly on Site, a piece by John Killmaster, on display at the Herrett Center for Arts and Science in Twin Falls

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Sports & Recreation

Southern Idaho In Action Experience the region – inside and out Southern Idaho offers many sports and recreation activities, from the thrilling Magic Valley Speedway to the serene Shoshone Indian Ice Caves.

Todd Bennett

Blue Lakes Country Club

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i m agesso u t h e r n ida h o . c o m

Snow Sports Southern Idaho offers several outdoor snow activities, including two snowmobile trails and two prominent ski resorts. The Albion Area Snowmobile Trails feature approximately 30 square miles of trails that vary in difficulty. The Gooding County Snow Park provides access to a snowmobile trail that covers 150 miles of land. The Magic Mountain Resort has several ski trails, as well as its own tubing trail.

And, located in the Sawtooth National Forest, the Pomerelle Mountain Resort has access to 24 slopes.

Golf Southern Idaho offers a dozen golf courses, some of which are set next to the beautiful Snake River.

Prominent courses include Canyon Springs Golf Course in Twin Falls, an 18-hole course catering to players of all skill levels; Blue Lakes Country Club, a private 18-hole course open year round and situated in the alluring Snake River Canyon; and Clear Lake Country Club, located in Buhl, a semi-private course featuring 18 holes that open in the spring and fall.

Magic Valley Speedway The Magic Valley Speedway features a 1/3-mile, semi-banked oval track. In addition to thrilling racing events, the speedway also offers party and group

packages in which participants can ride along in an official pace or race car.

the Great Outdoors Southern Idaho is also home to several outdoor activities not dependent on snow. The City of Rocks National Reserve offers outstanding rock climbing.

The Banbury Hot Springs run along the Snake River and connect to campground facilities, a picnic area, a boat ramp and more. The Shoshone Indian Ice Caves feature a 1,000-foot-long former lava tube with ice formed by naturally occurring air currents.

The Twin Falls Area Hiking Trail, located about 2 miles north of the Magic Mountain Resort, offers numerous outdoor activities. Thousand Springs State Park boasts historic structures at Ritter Island and Bonnieview, as well as the beautiful natural scenery of the Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve, Niagara Springs and Crystal Lake.

Casinos Many Southern Idaho residents who prefer to stay indoors flock to nearby Jackpot, Nevada, to visit two popular casino hotels, Cactus Petes Resort Casino and the Horseshu Hotel and Casino, both offering thousands of square feet of gaming machines and tables.

– Braxton Shoop

Clear Lake Country Club Located in the famous Snake River Canyon, Clear Lake Country Club offers a lifestyle you will enjoy for golf, fishing, camping and hospitality.

403 Clear Lake Ln. • Buhl, Idaho 83316 • (208) 543-4849 • Fax: (208) 543-4855 Pro-shop/Restaurant: (208) 543-2829 • www.clearlakecc.org

Fun Things to Do

and the

Lots of Options ten fun things to do in southern idaho

Discover the Creative Spirit of the Valley!

1

Browse the exhibits at the Herrett Center for Arts and Science, located on the main campus of the College of Southern Idaho.

2

Hike through the lava caves and scenic formations of Craters of the Moon National Monument.

6

Picnic at Balanced Rock Park, home to a unique natural wonder.

7

Shop for aromatic gifts at Annie's Lavender and Coffee Cafe.

Still Life with Roses. Neva Edwards.

Featuring the Finest of Local Arts and Artists • Artists’ receptions and gallery openings

3

Submerge yourself in one of Southern Idaho's numerous hot springs.

8

Take a tour of the Shoshone Indian Ice Caves for a chilly adventure in nature.

4

Stroll through historic downtown Twin Falls to discover shopping and dining hot spots.

• Dramatic and musical performances • Literary programs • Children’s programs

9

Create your own mosaics or pottery at Hands On Studio.

Open Tuesday-Friday 10-5 Saturday 11-3 and First Fridays 7-9 Call or visit for our calendar of events (208) 734-ARTS (2787) 132 Main Avenue South Historic Downtown Twin Falls www.magicvalleyartscouncil.org

5

Head to Magic Valley Speedway for exciting stock car and go kart races.

10

Spend a day playing golf at the 93 Golf Ranch, the longest golf course in Southern Idaho.

Twin Falls Center MAGIC

VALLEY

ARTS

for the

Arts

COUNCIL

Celebrate Art and Life in the Magic Valley with Us!

• Rotating art exhibits

You’ve GOT TA Have ART! LEARN MORE bY VISITING OUR wEbSITES: www.twinfallscenter.org www.magicvalleyartscouncil.org

• Music and dance recitals • Plays and dramatic readings • Art classes for all ages • Lectures • Artists’ receptions • Available for meetings, parties and special events TwIN FALLS CENTER FOR ThE ARTS MAGIC VALLEY ARTS COUNCIL 195 River Vista Place • Twin Falls, Idaho 83301 (208) 734-2787

Education

Schools of Thought Southern Idaho deserves high marks for education PRIVATE SCHOOLS Southern Idaho has an impressive list of private schools for parents to consider. They include Lighthouse Christian School (K-12) in Twin Falls, Magic Valley Christian School (grades 7-12) in Jerome, St. Edward's Catholic School (pre K-6) in Twin Falls, Twin Falls Christian Academy (pre K-12) and Xavier Charter School (K-12) in Twin Falls.

Todd Bennett

Schools in Southern Idaho earn extra credit for providing excellent academic opportunities for students of all ages. Here are some of the top academic options throughout the Magic Valley.

Xavier Charter School in Twin Falls

Finding a Focus charter schools offer an alternative for students Charter schools are tuition-free public schools that are funded by the state, yet not supported by local tax revenues. Unlike typical public schools, charter schools focus on a specific educational emphasis.

Xavier Charter School in Twin Falls instills a “classical education curriculum�, which means all subjects are taught to all grades, with a special emphasis on

literature and a focus on fine arts. Some classes offered at Xavier are tap, ballet, jazz, hip hop, vocal and instrument, and specialty art. Xavier, which moved into a new building and added the 12th grade in 2010, is a college-focused school as opposed to vocational- or career-focused.

Wings Charter Middle School, also in Twin Falls, provides an environment

to best teach middle school students with learning differences, such as learning disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, emotional problems and more.

The emphasis at Wings is on community service and the development of skills for students to be citizens who contribute to society. Wings was founded by the Southern Idaho Learning Center and opened in August 2009.

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photos by Todd Bennett

Education

HIGHER EDUCATION

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

College of Southern Idaho The College of Southern Idaho (CSI) is headquartered in Twin Falls and has off-campus centers in Burley, Gooding, Hailey and Jerome. CSI enrolls 7,000 students and offers 115 course disciplines. Additional upperdivision courses are offered through the College of Southern Idaho at the University of Idaho, Idaho State University and Boise State University.

Twin Falls School District This district serves 7,400 students and has seven elementary schools, two junior high schools, one alternative junior high, two high schools and one alternative high school. The Twin Falls School District has a staff of 950, making it one of the largest employers in Southern Idaho.

Boise State University The research university in the state's capital city has an enrollment of nearly 20,000 students. It offers 190 fields of study ranging from associate certifications to doctoral programs. Boise State is organized into seven colleges: arts and sciences, business and economics, education, engineering, graduate studies, health sciences, and social sciences and public affairs.

What’s Online Read more articles about Southern Idaho’s diverse learning environments by going online to imagessouthernidaho.com and clicking on “education.”

Jerome School District More than 3,500 students are enrolled in the Jerome School District. Horizon and Jefferson elementary schools accommodate grades K-3, Summit Elementary is for grades 4-5, Jerome Middle features grades 6-8 and Jerome High School has grades 9-12.

Minidoka County School District MCSD is home to Acequia, Heyburn, Paul and Rupert elementary schools; East Minico and West Minico middle schools; Minico High School and Mt. Harrison Jr./Sr. High School.

News from Mt. Harrison High: It implemented a dress code for the 2010-2011 school year.

Cassia County School District The district is home to Burley,

Declo, Oakley and Raft River high schools, and Burley and Declo junior high schools. The elementary schools in the CCSD are Albion, Almo, Declo, Dworshak, Mountain View, Oakley, Raft River and White Pine. There is also Cassia Alternative High, Cassia Tech Center and Newcomer Center Preschool.

Blaine County School District This school district features eight schools, including one – Carey School – that accommodates K-12 students.

The other public schools in BCSD are Bellevue Elementary, Ernest Hemingway Elementary, Hailey Elementary, Woodside Elementary, Wood River Middle School, Silver Creek High School and Wood River High School.

Idaho Digital Learning Academy IDLA is a state-sponsored and accredited online school created by the Idaho State Legislature to provide greater education access for Idaho students in grades 7-12.

The school addresses the educational needs of all traditional, home-schooled, at-risk and gifted learners in Idaho.

– Kevin LItwin

Left: Students in the Wind Energy Program at the College of Southern Idaho practice their tower climbing skills. Above: CSI’s campus in Twin Falls

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Local Flavor

All You Can Eat Southern Idaho’s Food Festivals Take The Cake

If you’re looking to shed a few unwanted pounds, steer clear of Southern Idaho’s many unique food festivals and stick to the region’s many outdoor recreation venues instead. Food is serious business around here, and many local organizations have found a way to blend Southern Idaho’s culinary talents and fundraising opportunities for local charities and other groups.

Epicurean Evening

Photo Courtesy of Laura L. Erickson

It’s all Idaho at an Epicurean Evening, sponsored by Idaho Preferred, a program of the Idaho State Dept. of Agriculture that works to raise the profile of local food producers.

The event, which includes a Quick Cuisine Cooking Challenge, raises funds for St. Luke’s Magic Valley Health Foundation.

Competing chefs must showcase an Idaho-grown ingredient in their dishes, and in the past have offered up creations involving trout, potatoes, honey and even alligator. Idaho wines and distilleries also are on hand.

Rotary’s Death By Chocolate Photo Courtesy of Jason Lugo

Take Death By Chocolate, a production of the Rotary Club of Twin Falls. Local chefs square off in five categories: chocolate cake, brownie, cookie, candy and unique dessert. A judge’s panel selects the top entries, but the real winners are the attendees, who get to taste the entries and then vote for their favorites. The 2010 event had 25,000 pieces of chocolate, and between bites the festival-goers also enjoyed a silent auction, raffle and live music. Supported charities included Valley House homeless shelter, the Salvation Army and local school scholarships.

Savor Southern Idaho

Buhl Trout Festival

Savor Southern Idaho is another all-Idaho evening and is sponsored by Southern Idaho Tourism.

Highlighting the area’s agricultural heritage, the evening showcases not only what to eat and drink, but all the other unique aspects of the region.

Then there’s the Buhl Trout Festival, a longtime local favorite held in downtown Buhl – the Trout Capital of America – that features a food and wine tasting, street dance and more.

– Joe Morris

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community profile SNAPSHOT Twin Falls County is the most populous of the seven Southern Idaho counties and has grown steadily over the past decade. The population has increased from 63,020 in 1998 to 75,296 in 2009, an increase of 17.8 percent. The area has swiftly become a regional retail hub for Southern Idaho, and the population has increased accordingly. The area has abundant natural resources and numerous recreational opportunities.

CLIMATE

20 F Winter Low Temperature

Household information

88 F

42,741

Summer High Temperature

9.42” Annual Rain Fall (vs. National Annual Rain Fall of 37.48”)

34 Median Resident Age

53%

Mountain

Married

cost of living

47% Single

$43,112 Median Household Income

30% Age 19 and Under

$138,000

44%

Median Home Price

Age 20-54

$687 Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment

12 minutes Median Travel Time to Work

Total Population (City of Twin Falls)

time zone

transportation

26% Age 55 and Over

numbers to know Driver Services Twin Falls County Sheriff’s Office 260 Fourth Ave. N. Twin Falls, ID 83301 (208) 733-7610 www.twinfallscoso.com Voter Registration Twin Falls County Elections Office P.O. Box 126 Twin Falls, ID 83303 twinfallscounty.org Recycling Magic Valley Recyling (208) 733-9690 mvrecycling.net

visit our

advertisers Canyon Crest Dining Event Center www.canyoncrestdining.com

Hilex Poly Company LLC www.hilexpoly.com

Magic Valley Storage www.magicvalleyselfstorage.com

Clear Lake Country Club www.clearlakecc.org

Intermountain Spine & Orthopaedics www.imspine.com

Precision Aviation Inc. www.paviation.com

College of Southern Idaho www.csi.edu

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DL Evans Bank www.dlevans.com

Joslin Field Magic Valley Regional Airport www.tfid.org/departments/airport

First Federal www.firstfd.com

Magic Valley Arts Council www.magicvalleyartscouncil.org

i m agesso u t h e r n ida h o . c o m

Rocket Express Car Wash www.rocketexpress.com Southern Idaho Tourism www.visitsouthidaho.com St. Benedicts Family Medical Center www.stbenshospital.org

St. Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Center www.stlukesonline.org Stevens Pierce & Associates CPAs www.twinfallscpa.com Twin Falls Chamber of Commerce www.twinfallschamber.com

Ad Index

54 Canyon Crest Dining Event Center

47 Clear Lake Country Club

50 College of Southern Idaho

C4 DL Evans Bank

6 First Federal

35 Magic Valley Storage

C3 Precision Aviation Inc.

39 Hilex Poly Company LLC 2 Intermountain Spine & Orthopaedics

38 Joslin Field Magic Valley Regional Airport

48 Magic Valley Arts Council

14 Rocket Express Car Wash

44 Southern Idaho Tourism

37 St. Benedicts Family Medical Center

42 St. Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Center

4 Stevens Pierce & Associates CPAs C2 Twin Falls Chamber of Commerce

Chartered Flights Aircraft Management • Aircraft Maintenance Based at Magic Valley Regional Airport

208.308.1852 • www.paviation.com

582 654 2156 7 25 37 564 98 7125 19 5000 96 525 3 775 851 9500 45 2750 10500 1 65 2000 92 120 8525 8 465 78

1,300 + acres of parks to enjoy

Learn fun and interesting facts about Southern Idaho in the By the Numbers video at

imagessouthernidaho.com