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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Traditional Resolutions As we step into a new year, it’s a time filled with the promise of excitement—a season of resets, exploration of new horizons, and the pursuit of meaningful goals. January is like a blank canvas, inviting us to paint the portrait of the twelve months that lie ahead. In this issue and recognizing that January is a pivotal juncture for introspection and renewed commitment to personal health, we’ve curated content that resonates with the spirit of the month. Beyond the traditional resolutions, consider planning your vacations strategically, allowing for rejuvenation without compromising the practicalities of everyday life. Prioritize regular rest in your work week, recognizing its significance in maintaining equilibrium in the hustle and bustle of modern life. Join a fitness community or gym to infuse your routine with invigorating physical activity, and don’t shy away from indulging in the desserts that bring you joy, for balance is key. Most importantly, strong relationships with friends and family lead to less stress, a greater sense of purpose, and a longer life. So, while you embrace the guidance for a healthier lifestyle, be sure to treasure your social ties as well. Our community is indeed special, and we want it to thrive. Happy New Year

January 2024 PUBLISHER

Greg Gewalt | greg.gewalt@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Tricia Busalacchi | tricia.busalacchi@citylifestyle.com STAF F W R I T E R

Jordan Gray | editorial@meridiancitylifestyle.com SAL E S S U P P O RT AS S I STAN T

Maria Serondo | support@boisecitylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jana Kemp, Ashley Loeb, Sabina Dana Plasse, Katie Backer, Angela Broockerd C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Ashley Loeb, Janie Jones, Katie Jones Backer, Hilary Mayberry, Tony Harrison, Sherri Harkin

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

G R E G G E W A LT, P U B L I S H E R @MERIDIAN.LIFESTYLE

Meridian Lifestyle is available for pick up at the Meridian Chamber of Commerce, 215 E. Franklin Rd.

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Meridian Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Meridian area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

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The All-New

2024 INEOS GRENADIER

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inside the issue JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

44 20 Featured

20 26 32 44 10

Soothing the Body & Soul

Take time for yourself at the salon and spa

Journey to 26.2

Have you ever considered running a marathon?

Hit the Slopes

Skiing and snowboarding in and around Idaho

Heart & Soul of Idaho

Idaho City’s historic small town charm

32 On the Cover

Departments

A family’s stroll through the snow not only warms hearts but boosts health. Amid laughter and fresh air, they strengthen bonds, enhance mental well-being, and promote physical fitness—create your cherished moments in the snow.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Local Limelight HEALTH + WELLNESS

Get Active SPORTS + RECREATION

Outdoor Adventure SPORTS + RECREATION

Must See HEALTH + WELLNESS

Travel Journal TRAVEL

Our Town ENTERTAINMENT

Photography: Halfpoint

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1-7: The Idaho Dream Wedding Expo was a magical showcase of wedding inspiration that took place in November. Couples connected with top vendors and experts at the Idaho Expo venue, exploring displays of bridal fashion, floral arrangements, photography, and more. The event provided a one-stop experience, allowing brides and grooms to gather insights and advice from seasoned wedding professionals to shape their dream day. From enchanting decor to delectable cakes, the Expo transformed wedding dreams into reality. Attendees enjoyed fashion, interactive exhibits, and exclusive deals, making it a memorable event for those planning their special day. The Boise Dream Wedding Expo turned visions into plans, ensuring every detail was a perfect reflection of love and commitment. Photography by @ibleventsinc

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city scene CONTINUED

1-6: Boise Fashion Week’s Fall 2023 dazzled with diversity, creativity, and innovation, featuring designers from Idaho and beyond. The three-day extravaganza drew 300+ guests and spotlighted a volunteer team’s months-long passion. Day 1 unveiled sustainable and innovative designs from MoLove, Voxn, 3D Printcess, and Serendipity. 3D Printcess wowed with 3D-printed disco-inspired attire, while Serendipity showcased vintage sustainable outfits, reflecting Idaho’s fashion trends. Day 2 celebrated ready-to-wear fashion with Voxn, Ritual Blue, Rhinestone Rodeo, and Seth Aaron, infusing muted tones and contrasting colors. CONTINUED >

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1-6: The afterparty at Coa De Jima, sponsored by LGCY Productions, continued the style and music fusion. Day 3 showcased special occasion looks from Sarabeth Bridal, Boise Tuxedo Shop, Rhinestone Rodeo, and Serendipity Boutique, closing a triumphant display of style, innovation, and wearability at Boise Fashion Week. Photography by @curtisbcreative

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SOOTHING BODY and SOUL

AFTER THE STRESS OF THE H O L I D AY S , TA K E T I M E F O R YO U R S E L F AT T H E S A LO N A N D S PA

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

ARTICLE BY JANA KEMP PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Mechele Duke says she is so interested in people that she could have owned any kind of people business. She is also interested in seeing end results such as the happiness of someone with a new haircut or the relaxation of guests after experiencing Rain Salon & Spa services. Sixteen years ago, Mechele realized that she wanted to build a business, “one that could be built for employees and the creation of outstanding guest experiences. A business that is also good for any potential future owners.” Mechele wanted employees to be able to make a good living, to provide health insurance, and the kind of benefits that other businesses provide. “I want to provide for employees who are the primary breadwinners for their families,” shared Mechele. She also stated that she wants employees to be safe and secure, financially and to have the kind of lifestyle they want to have. Mechele wants to differentiate the salon experience for employees and for guests. The guest relations team greets everyone, inviting them to enjoy a warm hand towel, and tea, or infused water while waiting in the calm and relaxing check-in area. There is an aroma upon entering to create an inviting feel rather than the scent of hair chemicals. The retail

Each area has its own feel. The salon is bright and high-energy.

THE HYDR A-FACIAL IS A MEDIC AL G R ADE SYSTEM WITH A WAND T H AT C L E A N S E S S K I N , P R O V I D E S A P E E L , A N D H Y D R AT E S YO U R S K I N .

Clients SELECT THE OPTIONS they WANT FOR THEIR 45-MINUTE experience. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M E R I D I A N

shopping area and the whole space is designed and managed to be welcoming for all guests. Mechele wants guests to have a stressfree experience and to feel like they can come as they are, no need to get dressed up to be in the salon, with no judgment from the team. Mechele wants good humans working with guests and good humans coming in as guests. The salon is luxurious but not pretentious. Luxury is in the guest experience. Guests can opt for long visits (3 hours) or time-efficient (30 minute) services depending on their needs. The overall feel of the salon is modern, organic, and creates a Zen feel. There is a plant wall. The space is bright and clean. Each area of the salon and spa has its own feel. The salon space is higher energy than the spa spaces. It has individual stations for stylists to work with guests. With each haircut, complimentary rituals such as neck, shoulder, and scalp massages with an aroma chosen by the guest, are available. Women and men receive the same experience. There are even hand massages while people are getting their hair colored. Spa services are customized to the client’s needs. There is a steam shower in this area which is complimentary. Warm towels and an aroma of your choice are available with spa services. Facials have their own menu of services too. The hydra-facial is a medical grade system with a wand that cleanses skin, provides a peel, and hydrates your skin. Clients select the options they want, medical grade or a relaxing facial, for their 45-minute experience. In addition to great spaces for guest relaxation, Mechele makes sure to take care of her staff. “I believe my staff are my customers. The staff team takes care of our customers and guests. It is a

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

balancing act to meet the business’s needs and the needs of the team. If it is unbalanced in some way, then guests won’t receive the best experiences. I work hard to listen to my staff and to meet their individual needs so that they can provide excellent services and experiences.” Mechele has lived in Idaho her whole life – mostly in Southern Idaho and the Treasure Valley. “My roots are Idaho – there is not a better state to live in. I love the people and the beauty here! I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.” After managing a Stinker Station for 10 years, she realized that owning a salon was her dream, despite a family member discouraging her. She went to night school to complete her beauty education and earn her Idaho Cosmetology License. She likes to spend time in nature: snowmobiling, hiking, or taking a walk; she loves the beach and spending time there, too. Recently empty-nested, she’s looking forward to a couples-only (no kids) vacation – hopefully to Italy.

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JOURNEY TO 26.2

Photo: @montanamarathon

ARTICLE BY KATIE JONES BACKER PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE JONES BACKER + PROVIDED

G E T ACT IV E | SP O RTS + R E CRE AT ION

HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED RUNNING A MARATHON? DID YOU?

Montana Marathon 2021

Before 2021, the most I’d ever run was five miles … adding 20+ more seemed ludicrous! I was born a month premature with a heart murmur and childhood asthma. Running always felt impossible. Then my friend randomly asked if I wanted to sign up for the Montana Marathon with her, I scoffed. “NO WAY!” And yet… I couldn’t kick the idea. It’d taken root and I found myself curious about the challenge. Could I do it? I signed up that night! I knew the biggest factor would be training. I settled on a 5-month “couch to marathon” training plan (and visited my doctor). Weekly, my training included 2-3 short runs, stretching, cross-training, and weights. I also ran a “long run” each weekend beginning with 3 miles and working up to 20 miles before tapering off a couple weeks before the main event. I incorporated walk/

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M E R I D I A N

run intervals that worked very well for me (only elites run nonstop). Remembering that it’s quite literally “a marathon, not a sprint” helped too. Marathon day arrived and it was glorious. My goals were simple. I wanted to FINISH without getting hurt and/or being last. I did it! Race day motto: “Slow and Steady.” That said, it was tough. Organizers considered calling off the event due to heavy smoke from wildfires, the set-up crew forgot to drop off the porta-potties for the first 14 miles (making things a bit uncomfortable for everyone!), and it rained for miles 22-26. I was sore physically… but soaring emotionally! I am very proud to have finished. “Motivation remains key to the marathon: the motivation to begin; the motivation to continue; the motivation never to quit.” - Hal Higdon

IF YOU WANT TO RUN A MARATHON:

• Check in with your doctor. • Commit to a training schedule. (Research Marathon Training Plans if interested. There are a lot of great resources including books, podcasts, blogs, and more that will help you get ready for your marathon.) • Find a running store and invest in a good pair of shoes, clothes, cushioned socks, etc. • Fueling—meals that give you energy—and hydration are big components and something to research and play around with during your training time to find what works best for your body. • Don’t forget to stretch…buy yourself a roller now. You’ll need it. • Stay hydrated! • Keep showing up for yourself and goals! • If you start now, you’ll be ready for the Boise River Marathon (May 4th, 2024).

Editors note: As a new resident of the Treasure Valley, we welcome Katie to the local running trails as well as to the pages of Boise + Meridian Lifestyle.

G E T ACT IV E | SP O RTS + R E CRE AT ION

Hit the Slopes SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING IN AND AROUND IDAHO HAS NEVER BEEN SO GOOD

ARTICLE BY SABINA DANA PLASSE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HILARY MAYBERRY, TONY HARRISON, SHERRI HARKIN

As the 2023-24 ski and snowboard season kicks off, many new and exciting improvements and enhancements exist at several of our Northern Rockies’ favorite skiing and snowboarding destinations. Although Mother Nature is ultimately the power to winter skiing and snowboarding fun, many resorts in the Gem State, including Jackson Hole Resort, Wyoming, have been working on numerous upgrade projects and replacements, some multi-year long, that will no doubt create memorable winter days for when the pow-pow arrives. As many seek their powder stashes despite El Niño’s projections, never fear, as snow will arrive and will be supplied.

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | SPORTS + RE CRE AT ION

SUN VALLEY SOLDIER MOUNTAIN

As North America’s first destination ski resort, established in 1936, the Sun Valley Resort celebrates its 88th winter season with its traditional Thanksgiving opening day on November 23, 2023. This season, the state-of-the-art Challenger and Flying Squirrel chairlifts from the Warm Springs base and the new Lower Flying Squirrel trail are all part of the Warm Springs Enhancement plan. Launching a new website to enhance the guest experience, Sun Valley strives to provide cutting-edge improvements on and off Baldy and Dollar Mountains. The updated Challenger and Greyhawk lifts are Doppelmayr six-packs, featuring a mid-station unload and covering 3,138 vertical feet in only eight minutes. The new Flying Squirrel chairlift, a Doppelmayr fourpack, transports skiers from the Warm Springs base to mid-mountain, offering access to terrain for all difficulty levels and the River Run base area. Advanced skiers can access Warm Springs via the newly extended Lower Flying Squirrel trail and enjoy 54 acres of new-gladed tree skiing in Little Scorpion. sunvalley.com

Soldier Mountain has undertaken projects to ensure a longer ski and snowboard season inbounds and out-of-bounds for 2023. Over the last two summers, Soldier Mountain staff have worked to restore the resort’s snowmaking system, which was first installed in 1976 but laid dormant for decades and was damaged by the Phillips Fire that swept through the area in August 2020. The resort has expanded brush cutting, adding two more runs to the existing list of trails it mows to open more terrain earlier in the season and be able to leave it open longer. In addition, Soldier Mountain replaced one of its three snowcats with a top-of-theline model from PistenBully, which will make for earlier season access to cat-skiing terrain. The resort will also redesign its tubing park this winter to be user-friendly and more fun. Soldier Mountain offers skiing and snowboarding on 35 named trails and a terrain park on the frontside comprising 1,150 lift-served skiable acres and 2,000 acres of snowcat-accessible backcountry. soldiermountain.com CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M E R I D I A N

BRUNDAGE MOUNTAIN RESORT

Brundage Mountain Resort’s ten-year improvement plan is delivering for the 2023-24 season, replacing the 32-year-old Centennial Triple Chair with the new Centennial Express high-speed detachable quad, a Doppelmayr 3CLD, for a six minute ride. Now Brundage Mountain boasts two high-speed quads on the resort’s front side, which will ease congestion during the arrival process and balance skier traffic across the mountain’s 1,920 acres of terrain. In addition to the new lift, Brundage Mountain Resort has adopted a new point-of-sale system that uses RFID technology. Each guest will be issued an RFID card, which can be loaded and re-loaded with season pass or day ticket products online, allowing straight-tolift access for years to come. In addition, the system provides a more efficient way to make reservations for the resort’s signature guided Snowcat Adventures, which are offered on 18,000 acres of pristine backcountry terrain. Other improvements for this season include recontouring the Easy Street area to increase terrain-based learning opportunities, removing hazard trees around the Centennial lift line, and annual brush-cutting efforts to prep slopes for the possibility of an earlier opening.brundage.com

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | SPORTS + RE CRE AT ION

TAMARACK RESORT BOGUS BASIN

Tamarack Resort is gearing up for the 2023/2024 winter season with several new additions and amenities. Skiers and boarders will enjoy 60+ acres of new open terrain in the Reasons to Quit area, which brings the resort’s lift-accessible terrain total to 1,385 acres with 50 named runs, six named glades, and natural tree-skiing areas. A new interactive, family-friendly zone, Lumberjack Land, will be located just off the Waltz run. Beginners can hone skills and gain confidence at a 5.5-acre learning area with sculpted terrain near the Discovery chairlift. In addition, guests will enjoy enhanced ski-in ski-out lodging access with the Buttercup lift operating on weekends and holidays. Increased snowmaking coverage by 30%, spanning 150 acres of named runs, six new automated snow guns (TA TT10—the most efficient in the world), and one mile of new snowmaking pipe along with the cutting-edge snowcat technology (Prinoth Winch Cat and extra Winch Cat pick points) will enhance grooming on steeper terrain. tamarackidaho.com

As part of the ongoing forest restoration project with the Idaho Department of Lands and the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Health Initiative, Bogus Basin improved several runs, removing overgrown vegetation and underbrush for the 2023-24 season. Bogus Basin added four new snowmaking towers on the Morning Star trail as one of the nation’s largest nonprofit ski areas. In addition, a new PistenBully 600 winch cat equipped with a SNOWsat measuring system to determine exact snow depth will allow for better grooming on steep terrain, yielding more efficient snow management and grooming. For this winter, Bogus Basin boasts renovated lodges and other buildings and a remodeled rental shop to offer a fresh, updated feel, along with the purchase of new equipment to provide guests with more options. Bogus Basin’s updated lighting on Alpine and Showcase for night skiing will improve visibility on both runs, offering 200 lit acres. bogusbasin.org

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M E R I D I A N

GRAND TARGHEE RESORT JACKSON HOLE MOUNTAIN RESORT 36

“Ski the Ghee” is perhaps the supreme powder stash of Idaho—a skier and snowboarder’s delight—located four miles across the border in “Wydaho,” only reachable through Driggs, Idaho, in the Teton Valley. The Colter Lift, a high-speed six-pack that debuted last winter, transports up to 2,000 people per hour and gains 1,815 vertical feet in five minutes. In addition, Peaked Mountain, formerly only accessible via snowcat, provides 30 percent more skiing and riding. The extra 600 acres allow guests to spread out on the mountain and access varying types of terrain, including excellent tree skiing and steep pitches. Creating a brand-new beginner area by the Shoshone Lift, which is wider and regraded, is now a safe and easy place to learn. It also replaced the Papoose magic carpet with a covered Sunkid moving carpet and renamed it Huckleberry. The resort will also unveil its brand new characters in its kid’s zone by the Shoshone Lift that it has dubbed Targaritaville. grandtarghee.com

Aptly nicknamed “The Big One,” Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR) has some of the most challenging skiing in North America. Despite its deserved hard-core reputation, there are plenty of intermediate runs off the Bridger Gondola, and a new base area quad lift, Eagle’s Rest, whisks beginners to the two-year-old, mid-mountain Solitude Station Learning Center. In addition, this winter is the first full season of the new high-speed 1,000-feet-per-minute Thunder quad lift, which replaces the original Thunder built in 1994. This winter, its specialized offerings include a Mindful Ski and Snowboard Camp for those who want to center themselves and eat healthy while exploring the mountain, as well as a Lady Shred Ski and Snowboard Camp to accommodate women who want to experience the best of JHMR while learning with and from fellow female rippers. Jackson Hole also offers private tours with the legendary Tommy Moe, an Olympic skiing gold medalist. Check resort websites for passes and tickets, including Ikon, Mountain Collective, Indy Pass, or Powder Alliance multi-resort passes.

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | SPORTS + RE CRE AT ION

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KELLY COX’S HOUSE OF CREATURE OFFERS NOVEL APPROACH TO MEAL KITS

Bringing Idaho and t h e Wo r l d t o t h e Ta b l e ARTICLE BY JORDAN GRAY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

M UST SE E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS

“

“I’m the geek who will spend three days making the traditional French cassoulet. And getting that perfectly crusty top and making just a really simple radicchio salad on the side.”

Are you a culinary explorer? Kelly Cox, founder of House of Creature, is. And after years of globetrotting for her PBS program, “Original Fare,” she’s determined to impart her passion for flavor to others. “I’m just so curious about what people make and why they made it,” she said. “And so, being curious I think is really where it starts and, from there, trying something new.” That’s where House of Creature’s Culinary Adventure Kits come in. “Doing a monthly food kit is really about what’s in season and what we should be celebrating,” Cox said. “And a lot of that is because Idaho’s season is different than any other state I’ve lived in before. My goal is really to showcase what we’re making on the farm and then also what other people are making both here in the Treasure Valley area and Idaho, as well as other sorts of interesting global ingredients and artisans. I’m so passionate about other makers. It’s so important for me to showcase them.” Cox’s world travels often had her out learning about ingredients from the people who made or grew them, which she wanted to share with the kits. “You get together with a group of friends or your family and you try something new, or maybe it’s not too new for you, but you might get to indulge in ingredients you haven’t had before. And it comes with all the details on what is included as well as a written recipe and, most of the time, a video recipe so you know how to do it. I want to help people learn and enjoy this, so I’m here to engage with folks to help them get the best experience.”

The kit prices vary, depending on what’s in season. “They’re incredibly small batch,” Cox said. “We make like 40 kits per month for now. I can’t wait for that to change and for us to grow and expand.” Cox moved to Idaho in 2020, purchasing two acres in Star which she now farms with her husband and parents. While she tried to get “Original Fare” going again, the media landscape had changed. And so, House of Creature and the kit idea blossomed. “With House of Creature, I’m trying to provide a house with many different windows and doors for people to engage and support healthy and delicious food systems.” As for the name? “Creature is a large animal paper mâché head you can actually wear on your head,” Cox said. “I got her when I was in Haiti in a village that makes animal masks for Carnival. Which was a really hilarious thing to get through customs. Creature has always sort of been my doppelganger. And for House of Creature, it was time for her to rise up and be the overarching mascot.” If you’re looking for winter meal ideas, Cox offered her favorite, which she intends to feature in January. “I’m the geek who will spend three days making the traditional French cassoulet. And getting that perfectly crusty top and making just a really simple radicchio salad on the side. With like the perfect glass of wine, which you could go with a really bright, acidic white or some sort of juicy, jammy red. Oh, that would be heaven. And probably a nice big sourdough baguette with just a little bit of olive oil and salt.” If you’re hungry now, visit houseofcreature.com.

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HEART & SOUL OF IDAHO Idaho City’s historic small town charm during a weekend winter wonderland getaway

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY LOEB

Evergreens nestled into a sparkling blanket of white along the winding Highway 21 as we approached Idaho City. This historic town encompasses so much of what makes Idaho great that one might consider it to be the Heart of Idaho, and after our winter weekend escape there, it certainly has a special place in my heart! Idaho City is sprawling with history that still lives through its people, like Shelly Heffington. Owner of Majestic Mountain Ranch, Shelly doubled-back to Idaho City several years ago to care for the late Bill Sterling and continue

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his dreams through developing a peaceful property into the perfect year-round retreat. After a welcoming tour of the property, we were supplied with maps to soak in more of Idaho’s history as we cozied up in our well-appointed, Rebels Rendezvous suite — a full kitchen, plush bed, and an alluring copper soaking tub surround by sunflowers. As the night settled in, we joined most of the town at the Gold Mine Saloon for Idaho City Limits. No one at this establishment is a stranger, only new friends, and neighbors, including the owners, Steve and Steve, who serve up cocktails and conversation, with shots from a unique whisky decanter! A local musician shared her story with us at the bar as I munched on a savory BBQ pulled-pork sandwich that’s worth going back for! Lively music still ringing in our ears, we finished the night in a bubbling warm oasis on our suite patio beneath the glistening icicles beneath a midnight sky. Waking for a morning stroll, I stepped into a snow globe with snowflakes dancing silently amongst a background of pine, some leaving kisses on my face. The chill of the air left me as I dove into a plate of egg-battered bread drenched in a syrup as sweet as the waitress at Diamond Lil’s. Part museum, steakhouse and saloon, the walls, bar, and ceiling are saturated with historic relics that left my mouth hanging open. Diamond Lil’s is the epitome of small town home cooking inside a time capsule filled with gems from the booming past that Idaho City had as a destination for settlers heading west for gold! CONTINUED >

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This historic town encompasses so much of what makes Idaho great that one might consider it to be the Heart of Idaho, and after our winter weekend escape there, it certainly has a special place in my heart! Winter felt a bit warmer as we stepped back onto Main Street ready for the main event on this beautiful weekend in March, the Idaho City Chili Cookoff! The sun parted through the clouds as local business owners engaged in a spirited competition, offering a feast on the streets of Idaho City. Steaming chili was ladled into our souvenir bowls as we meandered from one station to another amongst the crowd of hungry visitors. Our tastebuds ignited with both classic and unique spoonfuls of red chili, white chili, and alligator chili! Violinist Alyssa Joy Claffey and guitarist Ronnie Long played as a lively duo as we tried to decide which chili to vote for as our favorite. On the way to check in for our next overnight accommodations, we made a pitstop at the Idaho City Grocery to fill a growler with the owner’s tasty homemade root beer with a fresh licorice flavor, just one of the several options on tap tucked at a bar behind the groceries and goods. I also couldn’t resist stopping to pose for a fun photo op in the Idaho City Post Jail! I quickly freed myself to explore the edible goods, souvenirs and locally made artwork in this adorable little shop. The Idaho City Hotel, a grand, snow-white two-story building just steps from the Chili Festival, gave us the opportunity to experience the history right in the heart of downtown. The stairs to the second level rooms gave a welcoming creak as we headed up to discover a clean and quaint room where I took some time to read up on the many outdoor winter activities in Idaho City, including snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and a family friendly sledding hill just a couple minutes outside town. As the sun set behind the trees, we sauntered back through the snow to check out the steakhouse and saloon side of Diamond Lil’s. Locals wished the bartender happy birthday while I

sipped on a classic mule sat atop a money-plastered bar beneath more antique bills dangling above. Country tunes belted from a glowing jukebox while billiard balls pinged together behind us as we enjoyed a cowboy style dinner at the bar. I scrambled outside the next morning to soak in the beauty of the freshly fallen snow glittering in the sun beneath a crystal blue sky. My nose soon led me into Walulla’s Coffee and Bake across the street, where it was hard to resist the alluring aroma and fresh baked goods. Back outside, I strapped on my snowshoes for a trek amongst the brilliant and bright winter wonderland. I felt immersed in nature in the quiet calm of winter without seeing another soul while circling through the forest around the quiet local airstrip on the Buena Vista Trail. Reluctant to leave the snow but having worked up an appetite, I returned for breakfast at Trudy’s Kitchen. We were welcomed by the waitress who had been our bartender the night before, as I gawked at a display case of delectable cream pies which are a feast for your eyes as much as they are for your taste buds! The staff move like a well-oiled machine to serve a hot and satisfying breakfast, including scrumptious cinnamon rolls. The weekend ending much too soon, we headed past the city limits, making a quick stop to get a glimpse of The Springs, which made me wish I’d made a reservation. The wintry views were some of the most idyllic that I’d ever seen amongst their shared pool or private spas. People were lounging, enjoying cocktails and snacks served by attentive and welcoming staff. Adding it to our bucket list for next winter, it has become clear that Idaho City has no shortage of friendly faces, historic relics, comfort food and fun opportunities to experience the great outdoors, especially during the picturesque winter season! CONTINUED >

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Idaho City Business Highlights 1. MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN RANCH 9 Lodgepole Lane Idaho City, ID 83631 Shelly Heffington (208) 695-9402 2. IDAHO CITY HOTEL 215 Montgomery Street Idaho City, ID 83631 Tara Gee, Manager (208) 392-4499 3. IDAHO CITY GROCERY 3868 ID-21 Idaho City, ID 83631 Bobby Matthews (208) 392-4426 4. GOLDMINE SALOON AND HOTEL 3867 ID-21 Idaho City, ID 83631 Steve Twilegar and Steve Ellis (208) 392-4787 5. DIAMOND LIL’S MUSEUM, STEAKHOUSE AND SALOON 409 Main Street, #407 Idaho City, ID 83631 Teresa Gehrals, Manager Holly Call, Owner (208) 392-4400 6. TRUDY’S KITCHEN 3876 ID-21 Idaho City, ID 83631 Trudy Jackson 7. IDAHO CITY TRADING POST 243 Main Street Idaho City, ID 83631 Theresa Meyer (208) 392-6723 8. THE SPRINGS HOT SPRINGS 3742 Highway 21 Idaho City, 83631 208-392-9500 9. WALULLA’S COFFEE AND BAKE 101 Walulla Street Idaho City, ID 83631 Mikaela and Mike Heighes (208) 513-9777

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Meridian + Valley Events JANUARY 2024 31 — NEW YEAR’S POTATO DROP

14 — JOSEPH LYLE LIVE @ ANDERSON RESERVE

31 — SIX THE MUSICAL

18 — 2024 FIELD TO FORK FESTIVAL

5-6 — 3RD ANNUAL COUNTRY MUSIC ROUNDUP

19-31 — LOVE…OR BEST OFFER, COMEDY

State Capitol, 6 PM: Unique and quirky tradition, a symbol of Boise’s spirit and family-friendly event. IdahoPotatoDrop.com

Morrison Center: the SIX wives of Henry VIII remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak.MorrisonCenter.com

Anderson Reserve, Sweet, ID: Live music at family-owned business, Restaurant/Butcher Shop. AndersonReserve.com

Jack’s Urban Meeting Place, 8:00 AM: Idaho’s trade fair connects local food and beverage professionals. FareIdaho.org

Visual Arts Collective: Two nights of live country music. VisualArtsCollective.com

Stagecoach Theatre: Romantic comedy about the trials and tribulations of online dating “over 50.” StagecoachTheatre.com

5-6 — WESTERN IDAHO FLY FISHING EXPO

23 — STORY STORY NIGHT: A SIDE: PLAY

4-5 — IDAHO FARM AND RANCH CONFERENCE

23 — BRYAN ADAMS

6-7 — GREAT TRAIN SHOW

23-24 — WESTERN IDAHO AG EXPO

Expo Idaho: Over 2500 fly fishers from the western U.S. attend. IdahoFlyFishingExpo.com

Boise Centre: A free event uniting producers, agribusinesses, organizations, and community leaders Pnwag.net

Expo Idaho: Nation’s largest traveling train show. Trainshow.com

7 — MOLLY PARDEN

The Olympic Venue, 7 PM: Songs that remind us that heartbreak isn’t simply another marketable human emotion. TheOlympicBoise.com

7 — TREE CITY CHAMBER PLAYERS

St Michael’s Episcopal Cathedral, 3 PM: Selections for Flute, Oboe, Horn, and Piano,” featuring French hornist Margarite Waddell. TreecityChamberPlayers.com

11 — ANTHONY JESELNIK

Morrison Center, 7 PM: Stand-up comedian known for his Netflix specials, podcasts, and Comedy Central roasts. MorrisonCenter.com

11 — EXHIBITING CURIOSITY

Idaho State Museum: deeper look at the collections that make us curious. History.Idaho.Gov

12 — 123 ANDRES

Morrison Center, 6 PM: Songs and videos used in early childhood and elementary classrooms across the US. MorrisonCenter.com

13 — MAC & CHEESE FESTIVAL

Downtown Coeur d’Alene, 12NN: Features local chefs competing for the Golden Noodle Award. CdaDowntown.com

13-14 — REMODELING & DESIGN SHOW

Boise Centre, 10 AM: Turn your vision into reality. IBLevents.com

O UR TOWN | ENTERTAI NME N T

Jack’s Urban Meeting Place, 7:00 PM: Experience real-life soundtracks more electrifying than the ‘80s. JumpBoise.org

Ford Idaho Center, 7:30 PM: “So Happy It Hurts” featuring the Eurythmics Songbook, featuring Dave Stewart. FordIdahoCenter.com

Canyon County Fair: Spotlight on the agricultural industry. Idahoagshows.com

23-24 — BLUEY’S BIG PLAY

Morrison Center, 6 PM: theatrical adaptation of the Emmy®awardwinning children’s television series. MorrisonCenter.com

25 — THE CABIN READINGS & CONVERSATIONS

Morrison Center, 8 PM: Steve Inskeep, co-host of NPR’s Morning Edition with Nicholas Kristof, New York Times op-ed columnist. Morrisoncenter.com

26 — WINTER LIGHTS

Downtown Coeur d’Alene: Immersive wonderland featuring large-scale, light-based artworks, interactive displays, and colorfully lit sculptures. Cdadowntown.com

26 — RECKLESS KELLY

Morrison Center, 7 PM: Retiring and one of the last few opportunities for fans and friends to see the band. MorrisonCenter.com

27 — MIKE SUPER

Morrison Center, 7 PM: magical experience the whole family can become immersed in. MorrisonCenter.com

31-17 — CLYDE’S AT BOISE CONTEMPORARY THEATER

BCT: A truck stop sandwich shop offers its formerly incarcerated kitchen staff a shot at redemption. BCtheater.ludus.com Photo: Ashley Loeb

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