Best of Teton Valley 2021

Your Guide to the Best Local Businesses, Organizations, Services, and People tetonvalleynews.net

A TETON VALLEY NEWS PRODUCTION

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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we fell in love with this place too

The team at Coldwell Banker Mountain Properties has deep roots in the community, a love for the area, and a commitment to excellence that will exceed your expectations.

Our agents live, work, and play here—they are local experts who are the ideal guides to help you navigate the market, and make the most out of your Teton Valley real estate journey. Whether you’re buying or selling, upgrading or downsizing, our team can help.

Meet our team at WWW.TETONVALLEY.REALESTATE

189 N Main Street, Ste 100 Driggs, ID 83422 208.354.9955 www.tetonvalley.realestate

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THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

deanna blanchard sales ASSOCIATE

miranda jacobsen sales ASSOCIATE

brook nelson sales ASSOCIATE

ken dunn BROKER

delwyn jensen sales ASSOCIATE

cricket romanzi sales ASSOCIATE

ann goodell sales ASSOCIATE

farrah kamel sales ASSOCIATE

kent wagener ASSOCIATE BROKER

Teton Valley News

o

tetonvalleynews.net

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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GIFTS ON THE CUTTING EDGE MADE IN THE USA

The Teton-Edge Santoku

Table of Contents 06

Editor’s Note

08

Best of Teton Valley winners

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Positive Community Connections

“Next Level.” - Bloomberg

As beautiful as it is useful.

Glory Folder est."

"Best of the West."

- Sunset Magazine azine

G-Fusion Steak Knives “Glides through steaks as if they’re butter.” - Wall Street Journal

Teton Valley Foundation offerings

23

SWOT votes

Teton Valley you’re the best

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Tom Cleary reels in second consecutive Best Guide Award

30

A product of the Tetons

32

“Through the Lens”

Photos by Mary Toft

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At home in the Valley:

Sego Ski Co.

39

A creative home

Several “bests” under one roof

42

Gone but not forgotten

The Guchiebird’s Legacy An Ode to Basin Burger

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The Mystery Mixologist

48 We sharpen knives. | NewWestKnifeWorks.com Town Square: 98 Center St, Jackson, WY 307.733.4193 Factory Store: 7667 Lupine Lane, Victor, ID 208.909.5483

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THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

Or: How a retired journalist won for best cocktail

A love for learning

Diane Green is voted best teacher

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Snow sculpting festival is a winter highlight

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Teton Valley is worth the effort Teton Valley News

tetonvalleynews.net

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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EDITOR’S NOTE

L

ast October, in the fourth year of the Best of Teton Valley contest, we thought that people in Teton Valley deserved recognition, “now more than ever.”

In 2020 I wrote in the newspaper, “‘Now more than ever,’ is one of this year’s great clichés, but just because it has been said ad nauseum, along with ‘unprecedented’ and ‘the new normal,’ that doesn’t change how disruptive, challenging, and often discouraging this year has been.”

We thought maybe 2021 would be better, but somehow in some ways it has been challenging and disruptive in new and exciting (?) ways.

So, again, this year, with the publication of this magazine to celebrate everything that is great in Teton Valley, we want to say that the Best of Teton Valley is more than just a promotional contest designed to garner social media attention or advertising dollars. It’s our way of recognizing as many members of the community as possible.

And if you’re new here, check out the directory of winners to learn more about: • The restaurants that made it through an intense summer; • the guides and mechanics who found themselves busier than ever; • the gyms and spas and salons that kept us happy; • the shops that overcame supply line disruptions and labor shortages; • the educators, artists, health care professionals, and public officials that brighten the community with their service; • and the nonprofits that provide so much to all of us.

There is plenty to discover in Teton Valley.

Thanks to everyone who voted and everyone who contributes to making this place the best.

Contributors Amy Fradley Carol Lichti Connor Shea Cy Whitling Jay Dash Jeannette Boner Mary Toft Paul Fadden Corey Anderson Advertising Paul Fadden Design Krysten Bullock Oversight Carly Andersen

COVER The front page was designed by artist and graphic wizard Jill Goodson of Teton Creative.

We felt it was only fitting to commission her to create a striking cover for us, because she worked at the Teton Valley News when the Best of Teton Valley was introduced in 2016, and she led the way in crafting a look and feel for all the contest materials that we’ve used to this day. Thanks Jill!

Julia Tellman Editor 6|

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

Teton Valley News

Citizen33: 364 N. Main St. Driggs, ID 83422 (208) 354-2073 citizen33.com

tetonvalleynews.net

2021

Forage Bistro: 285 E. Little Ave Driggs, ID 83422 (208) 354-2858 forageandlounge.com

2020

Tatanka Tavern: 18 N. Main St Unit 315 Driggs, ID 83422 (208) 227-8744 tatankatavern.com

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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FAMILY MATTERS BEST CHILDCARE 1st: Little Learning Academy 1480 South 500 West, Driggs (208) 354-7898 learningacademyschool.com

2nd: ABC - Above and Beyond the Classroom abctetonvalley.org

3rd: Head Start Driggs 215 North 5th St E, Driggs (208) 523-7622 Eicap.org

BEST SUMMER CAMP 1st: Teton Arts Camp 110 Rodeo Drive, Driggs (208) 274-3252 tetonarts.org

2nd: Grand Targhee Kids Camp

3300 Ski Hill Road, Alta 307-353-2300 www.grandtarghee.com

3rd: Learning Academy of Teton Valley 1480 South 500 West, Driggs (208) 354-7898 learningacademyschool.com

FAVORITE TEACHER 1st: Diane Green

English, Teton High School

2nd: Susan Christensen Music, Teton Middle School

3rd: Katie Rose Griffith

Farm and Garden Coordinator, Mountain Academy of Teton Science Schools 8|

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

Photo by Laura Vetch Volunteer teacher Jim Pratt teaches eager Teton Arts campers how to make pots on the wheel this summer.

BEST AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITY 1st: Maker Space at Driggs Library 77 N Main St, Driggs 208-812-5595 valleyofthetetonslibrary.org

2nd: ABC - Above and Beyond the Classroom

FAVORITE FAMILY EVENT 1st: Music on Main Victor City Park tetonvalleyfoundation.org

2nd: Victor 4th of July Parade victorcityidaho.com

abctetonvalley.org

3rd: Teton Valley Rodeo

3rd: Teton Arts Council

Teton County Fairgrounds, 2045 S 1000 E, Driggs 208-354-8005 tetonvalleyrodeo.com

110 Rodeo Drive, Driggs tetonarts.org (208) 274-3252

Teton Valley News

FRESH AIR BEST TETON VALLEY EXPERIENCE 1st: Music on Main

Wellness ellness Cent Center

Victor City Park tetonvalleyfoundation.org

2nd: Grand Targhee

3300 Ski Hill Road, Alta 307-353-2300 www.grandtarghee.com

3rd: The Spud Drive-In 2175 ID-33, Driggs (208) 354-2727 spuddrivein.com

BEST FLYFISHING GUIDE 1st: Tom Cleary, Teton Valley Lodge 3733 Adams Rd, Driggs (208) 354-2386 tetonvalleylodge.com

2nd: Erik White, WorldCast Anglers

38 West Center Street, Victor 800-654-0676 www.worldcastanglers.com

Tied for 3rd: Joey Maxim, WorldCast Anglers; Hope Strong, WorldCast Anglers BEST GOLF COURSE 1st: Teton Reserve

6612 Reserve Drive, Victor (208) 787-4224 tetonreserve.org

2nd: The Links at Teton Peaks 400 W 127 N, Driggs 208- 456-2777 thelinksattetonpeaks.com

tetonvalleynews.net

Optimum Blood Flow Muscle Recovery Increased Immunity Eliminate Inflammation Regeneration C•R•Y•O Therapy Whole Body & Localized

Refresh • Restore • Revitalize 208.354.3796 (frzn) cryotherapyidaho.com 25 E Wallace Ave, Driggs ID

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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FRESH AIR

Photo by Jay Dash

Dawn patrol in Teton Valley.

3rd: Targhee Village Golf Course 530 Perimeter Dr, Alta 307- 353-8577 targheevillage.com

BEST BIKE SHOP 1st: Fitzgerald’s Bicycles 176 N Main St., Victor (208) 787-2453 fitzgeraldsbicycles.com

2nd: Peaked Sports 70 E Little Ave, Driggs (208) 354-2354 peakedsports.com

3rd: Habitat

18 N Main St, Driggs (208) 354-7669 habitat.com 10 |

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

BEST SKI SHOP 1st: Peaked Sports 70 E Little Ave, Driggs (208) 354-2354 peakedsports.com

2nd: Yostmark Mountain Equipment 110 E Little Ave, Driggs (208) 354-2828 yostmark.com

3rd: Habitat

18 N Main St, Driggs (208) 354-7669 habitat.com

FAVORITE FARM 1st: Cosmic Apple Gardens 397 E 8500 S, Victor cosmicapple.com 208-787-2082

2nd: Dusty Hound Farms Tetonia

3rd: Teton Full Circle Farm

325 E 7750 S, Victor tetonfullcirclefarm.org

BEST IN REC TECH 1st: 22 Designs

twentytwodesigns.com

2nd: Sego Ski Co. segoskis.com

3rd: Liquid Hardware 38 W Birch St, Victor (208) 557-9848

Teton Valley News

HEALTHY LIVING BREAK A SWEAT 1st: Targhee Athletics 440 N Main St, Driggs

PAMPER YOURSELF 1st: Stillwaters Spa & Salon at Teton Springs

www.targheeathletics.com

10 Warm Creek Ln, Victor (208) 787-7250 Tetonspringslodge.com

2nd: Fit & Fall Proof at the Senior Center

2nd: CRYO Therapy Idaho

(208) 203-7877

(208) 354-6973 tetonseniors.org

3rd: Anytime Fitness 39 W Bates Rd, Driggs (208) 354-9675

tetonvalleynews.net

25 E Wallace Ave, Driggs (208) 354-3796 cryotherapyidaho.com

3rd: Elevate Salon 275 E Little Ave, Driggs (208) 354-0275

BEST MASSAGE 1st: Heather Stewart

My Body Works at Roots Hair Body Soul 170 N Main St, Victor (208) 313-5525

2nd: Kate Day

katedaymassagetherapy.com

3rd: Kathy Popovich

turtlepopovich@aol.com

BEST YOGA INSTRUCTOR 1st: Connie Tyler tetonseniors.org

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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HEALTHY LIVING This is what Pampering looks like at the Stillwaters Spa.

2nd: Kari Swenson

mountainmermaidwellness.com

3rd: Brice Nelson

brice@knottypinesupperclub.com

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY 1st: Streubel Physical Therapy 285 E Little Ave, Driggs (208) 354-1999 streubelphysicaltherapy.com

2nd: High Peaks Physical Therapy

180 South Main Street #C-2, Driggs (208) 354-3128 Highpeaksphysicaltherapy.com

3rd: Eagle Orthopedic & Sports 600 Valley Centre Dr, Driggs (208) 354-0089 eagleorthopedicsportspt.com

BEST DENTIST 1st: Dr. Stuart Marshall Cottonwood Dental Care 150 S Main St Suite 1, Driggs (208) 354-9700 cottonwooddentalcare.com

Facials are one of the spa’s premiere services.

Schedule an Eminence facial, using our most popular, organic, Biodynamic skincare products. Enjoy instant benefits from the curative properties designed to rejuvenate and nourish your skin.

Open Monday thru Saturday • 10 am – 6 pm Call (208) 787-7250 or Book online at www.vagaro.com 12 |

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

2nd: Dr. Ray Cherry, Grand Teton Dental Care

7389 S Hwy 33 Suite A, Victor 208-787-2323 www.grandtetondentalcare.com

3rd: Dr. Tristan Taylor, Mountain River Dental 7726 Lupine Ln, Victor (208) 787-8100 tetondental.com

Teton Valley News

HEALTHY LIVING / MENU MUSTS BEST MEDICAL PROVIDER 1st: Anna Gunderson Physician Assistant-Certified Teton Valley Health

2nd: Kristen Coburn

Family Nurse Practitioner Teton Valley Health

3rd: Ellen MacKinnon

Director of Nursing Services Teton Valley Health

BEST PHARMACY 1st: Corner Drug

10 S Main St, Driggs 208-354-2334 www.driggspharmacy.com

2nd: Broulim’s

240 S Main St, Driggs (208) 354-0057 broulims.com

3rd: Victor Drug

81 N Main St, Victor (208) 787-3784 victordrug.com

BEST VETERINARIAN 1st: Driggs Veterinary Clinic 1309 N Highway 33, Driggs 208-354-2212 driggsvet.com

2nd: Circle S Mobile Veterinary Services 208-201-8188 circlesmobilevet.com

3rd: Victor Veterinary Hospital 1980 W Highway 31, Victor 208-787-2114 victorveterinary.com

tetonvalleynews.net

Photo by Alli Kadler The infamous Derailleur at the Brakeman American Grill.

MENU MUSTS BEST BREAKFAST 1st: Badger Creek Cafe 110 N Main St, Tetonia (208) 456-2588 badgercreekcafe.com

2nd: Seniors West of the Tetons Breakfast Burritos at the Farmers Market Driggs City Plaza, May through October tetonvalleyfarmersmarket.org

3rd: Provisions Local Kitchen 95 S Main St, Driggs 208-354-2333

BEST COFFEE SHOP 1st: Rise Coffee House 40 Depot Street, Driggs 208-354-RISE risedriggs.com

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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MENU MUSTS 2nd: Alpine Air Coffee Hut 11 W Center St, Victor alpineaircoffee.com

3rd: Yeti’s Post

98 E Little Ave, Driggs (208) 354-1444 www.yetispost.com

BEST BURGER 1st: The Brakeman American Grill 27 N Main St, Victor (208) 787-2020 brakemangrill.com

2nd: Citizen 33 Brewery 364 N Main Street, Driggs (208) 357-9099 www.citizen33.com

3rd: Basin Burger Closed

BEST MEXICAN 1st: Agave

310 N Main St, Driggs (208) 354-2003

2nd: Valle Del Sol

220 N Main St, Driggs (208) 354-0028

3rd: Hacienda Cuajimalpa 355 N Main St, Driggs (208) 354-0121

BEST PIZZA 1st: Tatanka Tavern

18 N Main St #315, Driggs (208) 227-8744 tatankatavern.com

2nd: Pizzeria Alpino 165 N Main St, Driggs (208) 354-8829 pizzeriaalpino.com

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THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

Teton Valley News

MENU MUSTS 3rd: Get Baked Prepared Food Emporium 37 N Main St, Driggs (208) 354-3663

BEST THAI 1st: Chiang Mai Thai Kitchen 182 N Main St, Victor (208) 701-8466

2nd: Teton Thai

18 N. Main Street, Suite 100 Driggs (208) 787-8424 tetonthai.com/driggs

3rd: Bangkok Kitchen 260 N Main St, Driggs (208) 354-6666 goldenasiaid.com

BEST COCKTAIL 1st: Jim Haag’s Sidecars or Margaritas 2nd: Knotty Pine

58 S. Main Street Victor 208-787-2866 knottypinesupperclub.com

3rd: Warbirds

675 Airport Road, Driggs (208) 354-2550 warbirdscafe.com

BEST LOCAL POUR 1st: Highpoint Cider

7565 Lupine Ln Unit D & E, Victor (307) 264-2151 highpointcider.com tetonvalleynews.net

Photo by Kathryn Ferris The stalwart summer crew at the Victor Emporium can dish out frozen treats faster than you can order them.

2nd: Grand Teton Brewing Company

430 Old Jackson Hwy, Victor (888) 899-1656 grandtetonbrewing.com

3rd: Citizen 33

364 N Main Street, Driggs (208) 357-9099 www.citizen33.com

BEST FROZEN TREAT 1st: Victor Emporium 45 N Main St, Victor (208) 787-2221

2nd: Corner Drug

2nd: Teton Valley Farmers Market

Driggs City Plaza, May through October tetonvalleyfarmersmarket.org

3rd: Barrels & Bins Natural Market

36 S. Main Street, Driggs 208-354-2307 www.barrelsandbins.market

BEST IN DINING 1st: Forage Bistro & Lounge

10 S Main St, Driggs 208-354-2334 www.driggspharmacy.com

208-354-2858 285 E. Little Ave, Driggs www.forageandlounge.com

3rd: Sloshies at the Trap Bar

2nd: Chiang Mai Thai Kitchen

3300 Ski Hill Road, Alta 307-353-2300 www.grandtarghee.com

BEST MARKET 1st: Victor Valley Market 5 S Main St, Victor (208) 787-2230

182 N Main St, Victor (208) 701-8466

3rd: Warbirds Cafe

675 Airport Road, Driggs (208) 354-2550 Warbirdscafe.com THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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THE ARTS BEST IN FINE ART 1st: Linda Swope swopephoto.com

3rd: Close Knit Weavers

2nd: Helen Seay helenseayart.com

3rd: Cy Whitling

bemorestoked.com

BEST IN CRAFT 1st: Chelsea Pottery Co. 485 Fremont Ave, Driggs chelseapotterco.com

2nd: Steve McDonald

pottery-on-the-wheel.com

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THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

2nd: Mary Toft

Artisans at Mugler

powderdayphotography.com

BEST MUSIC VENUE 1st: Music on Main

3rd: Lara Agnew

Victor City Park tetonvalleyfoundation.org

laraagnew.com

2nd: Knotty Pine

BEST MUSICAL ACT 1st: Lina Marquis

58 S. Main Street Victor 208.787.2866 knottypinesupperclub.com

swopephoto.com

3rd: Tetonia Club

2nd: The Balsamroots

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER 1st: Linda Swope

3rd: Ben Winship

6266 S Main St, ID-33, Tetonia (435) 647-6218

swopephoto.com

thebalsamrootsband. wixsite.com/music

benwinship.com

Teton Valley News

LET ME HELP YOU FIND YOUR HOME IN THE SHADOW OF THE TETONS

WE ARE ENGEL & VÖLKERS. Buying or selling your home is personal. That's why the service I provide my clients is tailored to their specific needs and delivered with ultimate care. I am proud of my in-depth knowledge of the valley and my experience of exceeding the expectations of my clients to guide them in following their dream, home.

Learn more at annefish.evrealestate.com Anne Fish · Engel & Völkers Jackson Hole Licensed in Wyoming and Idaho 70 South King Street · Jackson · WY 83001 307.413.1159 anne.fish@evrealestate.com tetonvalleynews.net

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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THE HOMESTEAD BEST IN DECOR 1st: Guchiebird’s Closed

2nd: Festive Living 13 S Main St, Victor (208) 787-3378 festive-living.com

3rd: MD Nursery

2389 S Highway 33, Driggs (208) 354-8816 mdlandscapinginc.com

BEST LANDSCAPER 1st: MD Nursery & Landscaping

2nd: Teton Valley Auto Repair

BEST REALTOR 1st: Amy Dery

3rd: Grand Lube & Tire Service

208 Rodeo Dr, Driggs (208) 656-8909 valleywidecoop.com

91 E Little Ave, Driggs (208) 354-8988 altarealty.com

2nd: Tayson Rockefeller

Teton Valley Realty 253 South Main Street, Driggs (208) 709-1333 tetonvalleyrealty.com

3rd: Zach Smith

7696 Lupine Ln, Victor (208) 787-2874 tetonvalleyauto.com

154 N Main St, Driggs (208) 354-5823

BEST TIRE SHOP 1st: Kaufman’s OK Tire 80 W Bates Rd, Driggs (208) 354-8161

2nd: All American Tire & Brake

2389 S Highway 33, Driggs (208) 354-8816 mdlandscapinginc.com

8 N Main St, Victor (307) 690-3674 Mountainstandardrealty.com

111 W Center St, Victor (208) 787-8473 allamericantireandbrake.com

2nd: BlueBird Lawn and Landscaping

BEST STORAGE FACILITY 1st: Summit Self-Storage

3rd: Tetonia Tire & Service

(208) 201-4275 bluebirdll.com

208-787-7867 www.summitself-storage.com

3rd: Green Mountain Gardens

2nd: M&J Storage

BEST FLORIST 1st: Red House Flowers

aceindriggs@gmail.com

BEST PROPANE COMPANY 1st: Holiday Propane 175 N. Main Street, Driggs 208- 354-4328 holidaypropane.com

2nd: Fall River Propane 1605 ID-33, Driggs www.fallriverpropane.com 800-632-5726

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3rd: Valley Wide Cooperative

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

297 Rodeo Drive, Driggs (208) 273-9355 mjselfstorage.com

3031 Central Ave, Tetonia (208) 456-2219

redhouseflowers.com

3rd: Flying Saddle Storage

2nd: The Flower Shop at MD Nursery

266 Rodeo Dr, Driggs, ID 83422 (208) 709-1528 flyingsaddlestorage.com

2389 S Highway 33, Driggs (208) 354-8816 mdlandscapinginc.com

BEST AUTO MECHANIC 1st: Sue’s Roos

3rd: Cottage Creations Floral & Gifts

51 W Rocky Rd, Driggs (208) 787-2558 suesroos.com

47 S Main St. Suite #5, Driggs (208) 787-4438 cottagecreationsllc.com Teton Valley News

RINK OPEN November - March

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR SCHEDULES AND PROGRAMS

PLAY HOCKEY UNDER THE BIG HOLES! Visit for tournaments and stay overnight to enjoy everything Teton Valley has to offer!

Youth/Adult Programs & Tournaments Something for everyone!

Visit our website for Covid-19 safety precautions & procedures

tetonvalleyfoundation.org

tetonvalleynews.net

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ALL BUSINESS BEST IN BANKING 1st: U.S. Bank - Driggs 200 S. Main Street, Driggs 208-354-9735 usbank.com

2nd: KeyBank

15 N. Main Street, Driggs 208-535-3172 key.com

3rd: U.S. Bank - Victor 138 N Main St, Victor (208) 787-7730 usbank.com

BEST IN LODGING 1st: Teton Teepee Lodge

440 W Alta Ski Hill Rd, Alta, WY (307) 353-1000 tetonteepee.com

2nd: Teton Valley Resort 1208 ID-31, Victor (208) 787-2647 Tetonvalleyresort.com

3rd: Teton Springs

10 Warm Creek Ln, Victor (877) 787-8757 tetonspringslodge.com

FAVORITE NONPROFIT 1st: Seniors West of the Tetons tetonseniors.org

2nd: Aska’s Animals Foundation askasanimals.org

3rd: Friends of the Teton River Tetonwater.org

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THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

Founded this year, Aska’s Animals is a local nonprofit that provides a progressive environment for animals — cats, dogs, pigs and more — through rehabilitation services, adoption, education, and community outreach.

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE 1st: Jeanne Atkinson at Alliance Title 39 W Bates Rd Suite 1, Driggs (208) 354-2285 Alliancetitle.com

2nd: Peak Printing

76 South 1st St E, Driggs (208) 354-7337 Peakprinting.net

Tied for 3rd: Corner Drug, Get Baked Food Emporium Corner Drug: 10 S Main St, Driggs 208-354-2334 www.driggspharmacy.com

Get Baked: 37 N Main St, Driggs (208) 354-3663

BEST EMPLOYER 1st: Alliance Title

39 W Bates Rd Suite 1, Driggs (208) 354-2285 alliancetitle.com

2nd: New West KnifeWorks 7667 Lupine Ln, Victor (208) 909-5483 Newwestknifeworks.com

3rd: CityPASS, Inc.

27 Arrow Root Lane, Victor (208) 787-4300 www.citypass.com Teton Valley News

Positive Community Connections: Teton Valley Foundation’s Offerings

By Amy Fradley TVF Executive Director There is no denying that Teton Valley offers incredible cultural and recreational opportunities, as well as awe inspiring natural beauty.

Whether you are a visitor to our valley or you are fortunate enough to call Teton Valley home, you likely already know: We are a closeknit community and we know how to have fun! If you want to see these community values in action, just head to one of Teton Valley Foundation’s anchoring programs either at Music on Main in the summer or the Kotler Ice Arena in the winter!

At Teton Valley Foundation, we create positive community connections through a shared love and appreciation for all that makes this valley so special. Whether it is at Music on Main, our summer concert series now in its 16th year, or at the Kotler Ice Arena in Victor each winter, we provide a wide array of programming for all to enjoy. If you haven’t felt the energy of live music at one of our shows in Victor City Park on a Thursday night, plan on it for next summer — it’s a celebration you won’t want to miss. When the snow starts to fly, the rink is the place to be for skating, hockey, and family fun.

For a full schedule please visit our website, (www.tetonvalleyfoundation.org), you’ll be glad you did!

At the Kotler Ice Arena, we provide fun, safe, affordable protetonvalleynews.net

At the Kotler Ice Arena, TVF provides fun, safe, affordable programs to skaters of all ages.

grams to skaters of all ages. Drop by to enjoy a Friday Night open skate session with your friends or family.

We offer drop-in stick n’ puck and pond hockey sessions and we coach over 200 skaters weekly in our Youth Hockey program. Local children are invited to participate in our open skate series through the Winter Sports program, in partnership with the Teton County School District.

Throughout the winter, Teton Valley Foundation hosts over 50 local and regional teams who travel to Teton Valley to participate in our adult pond hockey, women’s hockey and youth hockey tournaments. Experience the excitement of healthy competition and camaraderie on a tournament weekend and come cheer on your favorite team.

Beyond the love of being on the ice, we love that our rink is not just a place to skate but a place to grow

and learn and build character and community. One of our patrons recently described her experience at the rink: “It is the intangible quality of coming together at a time of year when the elements keep us apart that push us to brave the wind and blowing snow to be part of something wonderful”.

If you want to relive your childhood winters skating on the pond with a little stick n’puck, or you are looking for a leisurely skate on a Friday night, we have what you are looking for. There is plenty of fun to be had any day of the week at the Kotler Ice Arena. At Teton Valley Foundation, we make the good life in Teton Valley even better. But don’t take our word for it. Come see for yourself. See you on the ice!

This article is a paid promotional feature. n THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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Community, ConneCted

Local news matters.

This guide is produced by the staff of the Teton Valley News, serving our community since 1909.

Visit our website to subscribe today.

22 |

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

75 N Main St. Driggs, Idaho 83422

208-231-8747

www.tetonvalleynews.net Teton Valley News

SWOT Votes: Teton Valley You’re the Best

What’s the best part of living in Teton Valley? It’s a question that Seniors West of the Tetons asks every month in the Spotlight section of the organization’s monthly newsletter, Valley Talk.

It’s also a question that Teton Valley News asks its readers and the community in the Best Of Teton Valley section. This year, Seniors West of the Tetons is honored to be voted the Favorite Nonprofit, as well as placing in several other categories.

So, the best part of living here?

For most, the answer is simple: It’s the people.

And it was the people who gave Seniors West of the Tetons several Best Of honors this year, and the organization’s leaders are grateful for all that the community has done for it. SWOT is fortunate to have broad public support, not only for Best Of voting, but in so many ways – the cities and counties, major donors, monthly donors, the Tin Cup Challenge, a dedicated group of volunteers, a committed and forward thinking staff and board.

Executive Director River Osborn shares, “Our organization wouldn’t be what it is without the tremendous support we get from the community. Whether it’s volunteers that help with cooking or programming, people donating food or medical equipment, financially investing in our efforts, or just a nice thank card, we feel the love and support everyday. And really, we couldn’t do it without you all – we are so grateful. “ That support enables SWOT to provide advocacy, meals, and fitness and social programming to the thriving Teton Valley community year after year.

Here’s just a few of the things this community helps make possible: • New programs, including Death Café discussions, a monthly Tech Time assistance for seniors,

Personalized automotive expertise that’s family-owned and focused.

Best Auto Mechanic of 2020

208.787.2874 • 7696 • Lupine Line • Victor tetonvalleynews.net

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additional yoga classes and the launch of Qi Gong sessions. A new program coordinator is enhancing offerings with the help of the executive director.

• Popular fitness programs, including balance and strengthening Fit and Fall Proof classes under the State of Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, as well as Tai Chi and yoga.

• A new record of $11,000 raised through the sale of SWOT’s popular breakfast burritos at the Teton Valley Market during the summer. Fans now refer to the market day as “Burrito Fridays.”

The volunteer burrito team – with guiding forces Ken and Anna Kirkpatrick and a sales force of eager volunteers – makes it all happen.

• A ventilation upgrade at the Senior Center to improve fresh air quality, which was completed with matching funds and a grant from the Community Foundation of Teton Valley.

• An expanding meal program, with more than 4,300 meals served in-house or delivered to seniors in their homes in 2021 and 5,377 meals served in 2020, including a record of 3,360 meals delivered to homebound seniors.

• Additional food distribution through partnerships with the Teton Valley Food Pantry and the Idaho Food Bank. Plus dietary and nutritional information.

• Health information and workshops, including hearing screenings, blood glucose testing, flu vaccinations and other vaccine appointment assistance and month24 |

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ABOVE: SWOT Fit and Fall Proof class led by Board chair Anna Kirkpatrick leads a SWOT Fit and Fall Proof class (second place, best way to break a sweat).

LEFT: The award-winning burrito itself (second place, best breakfast).

ly foot-care clinics.

• Field trips and outdoor activities, including Sandhill Crane viewing, walks and hikes, a Driggs Scarecrow tour, snowshoeing, bike rides and clinic, art classes with Teton Arts, and crafts and games such as bingo, bridge and Mah-jongg.

• Advocacy and other assistance

for seniors through the Area Agency on Aging, tax assistance, Medicare assistance, general referrals, support and counseling.

• And more!

It’s a great lineup of services, but SWOT leaders know it’s only the beginning. As for the future, the organization plans to take its cue from the community, adding new programs as needs or wants arise.

“We rely on the community not only for our support but also for direction,” said Anna Kirkpatrick, the organization’s chair. “We know that the people will tell us what they need, and then they will be there to support us as we try new adventures.”

Because, for SWOT, the best thing about Teton Valley is definitely the people.

This article is a paid promotional feature. n Teton Valley News

Tom Cleary Reels in Second Consecutive Best Guide Award

By Connor Shea It’s no secret that fishing can be a tough, frustrating pursuit.

Many anglers do the most to concoct a gambit worthy of that next trophy catch. Painstakingly crafting flies. Pouring over stream and weather data. Hitting the highway in search of a better run.

For Teton Valley Lodge’s Tom Clearly, a more laissez-faire approach has paid handsomely for him and his clients, to the tune of a second consecutive Best Fly Fishing Guide award.

tetonvalleynews.net

Cleary’s unique approach is born from a breadth of experience, one cultivated over nearly 25 years as a guide.

“I know a lot of people that want to move to Driggs and become a fly fishing guide, all that stuff, and they think they’re good at fishing so they think they have what it takes,” said Cleary. “For me, I excel because I’ve been on the water a long time. Some of the things that contribute to it are my rowing capabilities, my water reading skills, just being out all the time, years of experience, it just

starts to add up, so it’s a feather in the cap.”

During those years Cleary positioned himself nicely at Teton Valley Lodge, guiding in an area that is world-renowned for its streams.

“We’re blessed with great rivers, great fishing, big fish,” said Cleary. “We have three of the best blue-ribbon trout streams in the West all right here.”

Cleary’s territory includes the Henry’s and South forks of the Snake River as well as the Teton River. These rivers looked to be in tough condition during the

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Tom Cleary (right) guides a client to a smashing Yellowstone cutthroat trout.

peak of the 2021 summer, with low streamflows and high temperatures, but Cleary observed that the fishing wasn’t as bad as people thought.

“I had one of my best seasons and one of my best seasons for helping people get fish and get big fish,” said Cleary. “I thought we had great flows and not as much adversity as maybe some people did.”

The rewards were bountiful for him and his clients. While big fish are certainly appreciated, it’s not the only sign of a great summer.

“I don’t really know how to quantify it other than smiles, fish pictures, big fish, and happy people,” said Cleary.

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As a senior guide at Teton Valley Lodge, Cleary attests that his role is to be more of a coach to not only his clients but other guides at the lodge as well.

“I’m always workin’ on them to be better,” said Cleary of his clients. “You gotta work them up to get to that point on any given day to just be better than when they stepped foot in the boat. One thing I try and do while training the guides is not focusing on the fishing that much but reading people, that’s really important.”

Perhaps Cleary’s greatest strength as a guide is his patience, exemplified in his strong belief “that one prize fish is always just a castaway.”

Never pretentious, Cleary had plenty of people to thank for his success on the water.

“I gotta thank my family for sure, 100%,” said Cleary. “They miss out on having me around a lot in the summer. I have to be thankful for the whole organization at Teton Valley Lodge as well ‘cause they make it so there’s a lot of things I don’t have to worry about.”

Of course, Cleary also had to mention the clients that keep his stoke high.

“I’d also like to thank my clients because they’re my friends,” said Cleary. “They let me have a great job and a great opportunity to just have fun out on the rivers.” n Teton Valley News

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A Product of the Tetons

Grand Teton Distillery produces spirits from Idaho potatoes and pure glacier water from the Tetons. Our home in Teton Valley, Idaho is a high valley at 6500 feet elevation and starts in the shadows of ‘the Grand.’ The valley is ringed with three mountain ranges; to the east are the Tetons, to the south is the Snake River Range and to the west are the Big Hole Mountains.

With operations dating to late 2011, the Grand Teton Distillery in Driggs produces multiple gold medal-winning vodkas which are distilled the equivalent of twenty times in small batches with every step carefully monitored. It is then freeze filtered six times through charcoal and garnet crystal to provide you the cleanest, softest and highest quality spirit possible.

But that’s not all we’re up to…

In addition to our spirits, we pride ourselves on using local and regional ingredients, natural fruit and sustainable practices to create our products. And the result is palpable.

As we commemorate our tenth year in business, Grand Teton Distillery also proudly announces the breaking of ground on a new, expanded tasting room. The new space will offer regular tours, accommodate more guests than ever, the ability to host private events, and complementary tastes 30 |

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of our spirits. The exciting development coincides with still more good news in the form of energy reduction initiatives aimed at making the distillery less reliant on traditional power sources; roof-mounted solar panels and recycled heat from the distilling process itself help to reduce our energy footprint while improving our level of service to the community.

Now, as winter wraps itself around us, we get ready to see 500 to 800 inches of snow fall to rest on our mountains. And that snow melt provides an abundance of clear and pure mountain water.

Marry that with thousands of acres of famous Idaho potatoes and it’s little wonder a premium beverage is born.

So play hard and raise a glass

Photos by Andrew Boczar

to this grand land. Because to us, today’s snow is tomorrow’s fine spirits.

This article is a paid promotional feature. n Teton Valley News

C A R E TA K I N G • VAC AT I O N R E N TA L S C L E A N I N G • S N OW R E M OVA L & L AW N C A R E

Teton Valley, Idaho & Jackson Hole, Wyoming

cchsjacksonhole.com / 307.201.1861 98 Center Street, Suite D, Jackson, Wyoming

tetonvalleynews.net

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Photo Essay

“Through the Lens” Photos by Mary Toft

ABOVE: This view through my bedroom window promised a frigid morning. The thought of it had me wishing to remain under the covers. But sunlight peeking through the peaks foreshadowed warmth. It was the motivation I needed to scrape the frost off my car and face the day.

LEFT: I captured cowgirl Hannah Joyce on a spring afternoon that masqueraded as a morning in fall — that is the power of editing. The original shot was strongly backlit, but by bringing out the shadows and adding warmth, we see this effect of glowing morning. The way it’s lit changes our focus-suddenly the photo isn’t all about the girl but about the horses and the girl, and a feeling of unity between them. These horses belong to the Woolstenhume family.

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Teton Valley News

Midnight at the crossroads; here I employed a long exposure (30 seconds) and just stood back and let it happen. A solitary car drove-by and I was very pleased because I wanted the streak of light it would cause. The sun flares of the traffic light remind me of a festive party.

Even though Driggs is a small town, there is a lot of excitement here - you just have to know where to look.

Family Shoots & Event Bookings Conveniently located at Grand Targhee Resort

Meet Scoop, a cat-skiing guide very much in his element.

What I remember most of this January day is how lucky we were to bag perfect photo weather. Shots of the guests were absolutely gorgeous and I was so happy.

Granted, we do love and need storms, but it’s really hard to complain about a brilliant blue sky and glittering snow. tetonvalleynews.net

NOW BOOKING!

Call or Text 208-404-9672

powderdayphotography1080@gmail.com @powderdayphotography THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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Photo Essay

ABOVE: Wanting to grow my ‘lifestyle’ portfolio, I schemed to stage a few shots using a crew of visiting friends. But it had been a couple years since these characters had seen each other, so the shot was posed in one sense but also natural in a far deeper way. We rode powder bell-to-bell on an amazing day. And I just stood back and let them do their thing. Its days like this and people like these that make me denounce the maxim “no friends on a powder day.”

LEFT: My friend, photographer Greg Heide captured here mid-mission to the A-chutes of Peaked Mountain. Greg and I had headed toward Mary’s before continuing up its neighbor. This was one of those warm, but not too warm days in late March. The kind that allow hiking without a coat — I love that. Greg is awesome and always full of stoke, a great friend to have.

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Teton Valley News

This pic feels like the wild wild west to me. It was probably 7:30 or 8 at night, the sun had gone down - it was a bright night and with the little help from my car headlights I got the capture. The swirling clouds give it a moody uninviting feel, which is ironic if you know the Tetonia Club.

Had the neon had been lit this would have been an entirely different image - once again illustrating the fact that timing and lighting are everything.

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Teton Valley News

Photo by Corey Anderson

A skier pauses as the clouds part during an early morning mission.

At Home in the Valley:

Sego Ski Co

Skinning past treeline in the company of friends is a pretty amazing way to witness a new day. In the Tetons, one minute the jagged peaks are brooding, the next they seem to blush. And that hue grows until, suddenly, arms of light reach straight out to slap a tetonvalleynews.net

high five.

Below, the far floor of Teton Valley is shadowed but brightening. Among its patchwork of crisp winter colorways, the Sego Ski Factory on Victor’s Lupine Lane is just waking up. And it’s thanks to the skis made there that the three

above are on this skin track at all.

They’re a mixed bag, that trio.

But their friendship grew fast (mountain towns are good like that). Tom and Paulie are playing hooky from father-dom, Roberto discovered skiing just last year; See SEGO, page 38 THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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Photo by Paul Fadden Sego’s exacting technique in fabrication and world class finished product are a reflection of the company’s valley home.

SEGO

Continued from page 37 and all three found their planks at Sego.

Not exactly new to the game, but certainly on the come-up; Sego’s exacting technique in fabrication and world class finished product are a reflection of the company’s valley home. Here, hard work and dedication deliver the goods, but plain ol’ fun is still valued at a premium.

And it’s the rambunctious study of how to increase fun which fuels the drive at Sego Ski Co. That gnarly crew puts in the hours so that the moms, the dads, the kiddos, the pros, and the community can angle into a ripper turn knowing that they ride a ski featuring near-indestructible materials and crafted to the highest standard. In fact, it’s that dedication to quality that landed a Sego Ski atop the podium of the Freeride World Tour. But Sego shines in the basics as well.

In the wild Big Holes, for example, there are few things more basic than a nice safe session with loveable Mother Nature. And pursuit of exactly that is just what those three buddies are about.

All have worked hard for this morning’s bright slice of life, all three trust their Sego skis because Sego values them; and one by one all three drop in on another delightful day in the Teton Valley.

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Teton Valley News

Creative Energy Several “Bests” Under One Roof

By Julia Tellman Three first place trophies found their way into one unassuming household north of Victor in this year’s Best of Teton Valley: guitarist and vocalist Lina Marquis was recognized with Best Musical Act and her wife Linda Swope was named Best Photographer as well as Best Fine Artist of 2021.

While Lina and Linda are relatively new to the Idaho side, they’ve been in the Tetons since the eighties, drawn from Maine and Texas, respectively, by the snow, the striking beauty, and the country-town feel of Jackson.

With Lina’s help, Linda ran Swope Mountain Photography and did a brisk business in weddings and portraits, while also sneaking in the time to capture the charismatic animals and stunning landscapes of the region. Lina could often be found onstage playing guitar and singing at Dornan’s or the Inn at Jackson Hole, performing whenever possible with women like Jenny Landgraf, Sage Hibberd, and even the young Miller sisters.

“My highest honor was tetonvalleynews.net

Photo by Julia Tellman Linda Swope (left) and Lina Marquis were voted the Best of Teton Valley in three categories; Swope was named best photographer and best fine artist, while Marquis took best musical act.

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Linda Swope manipulates multiple photos from her vast library to create new pieces.

getting to play at the Center for the Arts,” Lina remembered.

When the couple moved over the pass in 2016, they dove headfirst into the community. Linda immediately got involved with Teton Arts, helping manage the gallery in Driggs and doing outreach for the nonprofit, while Lina provided the score for art shows and events like the Souper Bowl, her earthy baritone guitar and dusky voice providing the perfect soundtrack for a gala. Retirement aside, Linda has done vibrant photography for local organizations and is an indispensible contributor to Teton Valley Magazine, although she confirms that she’s really and truly done with weddings.

Forces outside of her control have curtailed Lina’s playing for the past two years, but she recently returned to music, first with a ukelele, and now back on the instrument 40 |

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that makes her the happiest.

“I’m so thankful for my friends who have understood what a struggle it has been for me not to play,” she said. “I’m more comfortable in a crowd when I’m behind a guitar. I’m not a lyricist - the sound I make, I just do my own thing.”

Linda acknowledged that, with 40 years in the business, the title of Best Photographer didn’t feel misplaced. But it was the title of Best Fine Artist that surprised her, much in the same way that the art she has been making in recent years has surprised her.

Around the time she retired from professional photography, Linda started having visions, she said, and by digitally manipulating her enormous library of photos she was able to try and express what was in her mind: shimmering naturescapes; subtle creatures hiding in saturated

aspen backdrops; flocks of sandhill cranes given an otherworldly sparkle.

“I don’t like altered consciousness,” Linda said. “I’m normally pragmatic. I’m a workaday photographer, I never would have called myself an artist. The art that’s coming out of me right now, I honestly don’t know where it’s coming from.

It’s so much fun.”

While they appreciate their new titles, Linda and Lina couldn’t help but name a roster of other artists who could just as easily have claimed “Best of Teton Valley.”

“We’re living in a community of artistry here,” Linda said. “The per capita creativity - it’s even more than Jackson. We’re so incredibly happy here. Something about this community, the generosity, it must inspire us creatively, and it brings out the best energy.” n Teton Valley News

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Gone but not Forgotten Saying Goodbye to Guchiebird’s and Basin Burger

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Teton Valley News

Guchiebird’s owners Guch Lombardi and Chuck Spray have retired after fifteen years of business.

Photo by Jeannette Boner

The Guchiebird’s Legacy

Popular Boutique in Driggs Closes with Owners’ Retirement

By Jeannette Boner for the Teton Valley News Guchiebird’s, the popular boutique on Little Avenue in Driggs whose quiet charm captured the hearts of thousands both near and far, closed in September of 2021.

Owners Guch Lombardi and tetonvalleynews.net

Chuck Spray are retiring after fifteen years of business.

Guch and Chuck built the tall, rectangular building on Little Avenue after making the decision years ago to pull up stakes in Jackson and put down roots in Teton Valley.

This was just before the recession and housing bust, but they never

wavered in their commitment to enhancing their corner of Little Ave, even as the economy waxed and waned.

While Guch grew the store, Chuck maintained his wood-working skills in the back, designing and hand crafting guitars. The couple See GUCHIEBIRDS, page 45 THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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Basin Burger will always hold a place in the author’s heart.

An Ode to Basin Burger Burger Basin a Staple of Teton Valley

By Cy Whitling

I moved to Teton Valley with a broken heart and an empty stomach. Basin Burger helped cure both.

That might sound a little melodramatic, but for years Basin Burger 44 |

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was one of the most consistent touchpoints of my existence here.

In fact, I ate there before I even knew I would someday move to the Tetons. Teton Valley’s magic is made up of an excess of some things (big mountains, dry snow,

etc) and an omission of others (big box stores, never ending lines of fast food restaurants).

But sometimes, after a big day of reveling in the mountains that make living here worth it, you just See BASIN, page 45 Teton Valley News

GUCHIEBIRD’S Continued from page 43 worked hard over the years to provide unique items without directly competing with other local businesses. Guch was always committed to selling American-made pieces and said that, in addition to interacting with the community on a daily basis, she will miss those trade shows each year where she would discover and bring back to the valley new and exciting pieces of art to wear, display and gift.

Perhaps the highlights for the team was not found in beautiful wares to sell, but in the simple

BASIN

Continued from page 44 need a quick meal that’s cheap, consistent, and available immediately. And while Teton Valley’s pantheon of more traditional restaurants is excellent, Basin Burger filled an important gap in the eatery scene. It was fast food without the baggage, all the best things about your favorite chain restaurant, but locally owned, often staffed by highschool kids working on their math homework between taking orders.

The first time I ordered food from Basin Burger I noticed that the grease from my fries had soaked through the plain brown lunch bag. But somehow, the fries never tasted exceptionally greasy.

They walked that fine line with distetonvalleynews.net

everyday interactions with customers, from old timers who have perused the shelves and shared their stories, to valley families that grow and change with each passing birthday, anniversary, wedding and baby shower.

“Having a store like this has been a terrific way to meet the people, and not just the people who live here, but the people who visit here,” said Guch who has been proud of her loyal, return customers who make it a point to stop at Guchiebird’s every time they visit the valley. “I have learned how diverse this place is – from those

who grew up here, to customers who used to be nuclear physicists and doctors and authors – this store has hosted an amazing cross section of the valley. We always thought, these are the people who are choosing the right side of the Tetons.”

Even though the store has closed for good, Guchiebird’s was awarded first place in home decor in this year’s Best of Teton Valley contest.

“A heartfelt thank you to all our great customers over the past fifteen years!” Chuck and Guch said. “We encourage you to keep supporting our small local businesses.” n

tinction. I also noticed that they’d included fry sauce without asking if I wanted any. That’s the kind of service that made me a lifelong customer.

When I totalled my car running into an elk, Basin Burger was there for me. When I had a confusing conversation with a girl I liked, Basin Burger was my heartache food.

When I stumbled back from one of the hardest backcountry tours of my life, Basin Burger was there to comfort me with hot fries and crispy chicken strips. Basin Burger has been a constant in my existence here in Teton Valley. Sure, occasionally they faltered, the milkshake machine would break, or staffing issues would lead to unexpected closures, but through it all the core ethos of Basin Burger stood strong.

Decent food, for the right price, hot and fast.

Basin Burger was never the sort of restaurant to upsell to tourists, solicit profiles from regional media, or flaunt itself in glossy publications designed to lure wealthy out-of-staters to move to the Tetons. It was never a selling point for Teton Valley, never one of the amenities that ski vacationers rave about when they return home. Instead Basin Burger was a place you could grab a hot meal when you most needed one. A simple place that made this valley feel like home. And that’s why, even though that neon “open” sign quietly flicked off for the last time this summer, the community still voted it among the best burgers in this valley. n THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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Photo by Julia Tellman “I’ve won journalism awards in Kansas and Virginia, but this is by far the coolest thing I’ve ever won,” Jim Haag said about his new title as maker of the best cocktail in Teton Valley.

The Mystery Mixologist Or: How a Retired Journalist Won for Best Cocktail

By Julia Tellman

The staff at the Teton Valley News was as surprised as anyone when the votes were tallied and in the category of Best Cocktail, it wasn’t Knotty Pine, Tetonia Club, or Warbirds in the top spot, or even one of the valley’s illustrious longtime bartenders like Eric Achee or Adam Towle.

Instead, it was retired editor and epicurean Jim Haag, who has no affiliation with a local bar but does make a mean sidecar.

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“Maybe this is a sign that we throw too many parties,” Haag said with a laugh when he was notified of his new title.

Ironically, while he was an editor at the Virginian-Pilot newspaper out of Norfolk, VA, Haag oversaw the production of more than a few voter’s choice publications himself. That experience on the other side of the desk wasn’t what won him accolades though. It turns out Haag had a big network of friends who knew how to play the game.

After all, everyone is allowed to vote every day Teton Valley News

The Best Sidecar in the Teton Valley • 2 parts cognac or brandy • 1 part Cointreau or other • orange liqueur • 2 parts lemon juice • Splash simple syrup, optional • Sugar, to rim glasses • Orange twist, for garnish In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the cognac, Cointreau and lemon juice. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.

(Some people find Sidecars to be extremely tart, so you can add the simple syrup to make the drink sweeter. This isn’t traditional; it’s just something I do for friends.)

Strain the drink into chilled martini glasses rimmed with sugar. Garnish with an orange twist. during the month that the ballot is live.

“We were all out voting for each other,” Haag said of the acquaintances who often join him and his wife Carol at their house for dinner, dancing, and, of course, cocktails.

The couple does enjoy spending time at the valley’s fine watering holes, but Haag said he started polishing his bartending skills because going out too often was tough on the budget (not to mention that driving home afterward was not always a wise decision). With more time on his hands, he’s enjoying dabbling in new pastimes; on top of building his cocktail repertoire, he and Carol also take ceramic lessons at Teton Arts.

“I’m not sure if I believe in reincarnation or not, but if I’m coming back, I hope to be either a potter or a mixologist,” Haag said. “I figure I’m just practicing for my next life.” n tetonvalleynews.net

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A Love For Learning: Diane Green is Voted Best Teacher

By Connor Shea Plain and simple, Idaho isn’t the easiest state to be a teacher.

Between ranking last in the country on per-student spending since 2018 and having a particularly hectic pandemic response, the State of Idaho doesn’t do its teachers any favors.

It’s safe to say teachers are now the ones being put to the test.

According to the results of the Best of Teton Valley, none have scored better in their response than Diane Green.

Green, an English teacher at Teton High School in Driggs, attributes her success to worrying not about the bad, but the good.

“Since the day I walked into my first classroom in Pocatello, my focus has just been on students and how I can prepare them, support them, and help them know that people care about them,” said Green.

She has been teaching for 20 years, and past classes include junior English, senior speech, AP language, AP literature, as well as dual-credit communications for

Diane Green

Voted the Valley’s Best local Pour!

Tastings, Tours & Events

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Teton Valley News

ISU. She couldn’t pick a favorite class.

“Really I just love working with the students, and it would be extremely difficult for me to pick a favorite content to teach,” said Green.

Green found her vocation in her youth, growing up the youngest of four girls. Without television, the four would play school as little kids.

“School was something we played a lot as little kids, I also kept a school journal when I was in elementary school,” said Green. “Starting in kindergarten all the way through, the common denominator in terms of what I want to be when I grow up was always to be a teacher.”

With a laugh, Green mentioned that her second choices were rodeo queen and model.

“I grew up without a TV and had a very rich environment for exploration and learning and reading,” said Green.

A love of learning than did the rest for Green, as that’s still one of her many motivations.

“I’ve always loved learning and that’s one of the beautiful things about teaching… I’ve never stopped learning,” said Green.

Her other main motivation is, of course, the students.

“It’s always compassion and respect first, that’s how I treat my students and that’s how I expect them to treat each other and anyone else in the classroom,” said Green.

Prioritizing a positive learning environment is also of great importance to Green.

“My hope is that students feel connected and safe,” said Green. “My goal is just to create an environment where students will learn and then the rest just sort of falls into place.”

Teachers are some of the most humble individuals, being a core value of the profession, and Green is no exception.

“I wish I could just share that honor with so many educators who are equally deserving,” said Green.

“Educators don’t get a lot of recognition for their work and it’s really affirming to know that people care about what we do. I would just thank this whole community.

It’s just been incredible to live here, to work here, to get to know so many people through my job and I’m really deeply grateful for this place we call Teton Valley.” n tetonvalleynews.net

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Teton Valley News

Photo by DDA After heavy equipment operators load the forms with snow one bucket at a time, cheerful volunteers stomp the snow to pack it down until the forms are filled.

Snow Sculpting Festival is a Winter Highlight

By Alison Brush DDA Executive Director Driggs Snowscapes – The Art of Sculpting Snow began ten years ago as a signature local event designed to celebrate Teton Valley’s abundant resource, snow!

Teams of artists from all over the tetonvalleynews.net

country, some state and national champions, have come to Driggs to enjoy the friendly competition and to sculpt alongside a growing list of local snow sculptors, including high school students.

Broad community support begins with planning that starts months in advance, led by the

nonprofit Downtown Driggs Association, whose mission is to foster a vibrant and thriving downtown Driggs. The week prior, concrete forms are used to build 8x8x8 foot containers for the snow blocks. On Friday, January 14, over 30 tons of clean snow will be harvested and then transported to the Driggs PlaTHE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

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za to start the form filling for the very popular Snow Stomping community volunteer event! Heavy equipment operators load the forms one bucket at a time, and hundreds of volunteers stomp the snow to pack it down until the forms are filled. The forms are removed after two days, and the blocks are ready to be carved.

Artists work, often in severe weather conditions, over four long days without the use of electric tools. One block is always set aside for teaching snow sculpting to children, while being transformed into a fun community zone. On Friday night at 10 p.m. all sculpting stops.

On Saturday morning, a carefully selected jury judges the sculptures, while the public is invited to decide which sculptures deserve the People’s and Kids’ Choice awards.

The always well-attended Snow Ball finishes the day with a fun community party and awards ceremony.

To keep this popular event free and accessible for everyone, local businesses give their support through in-kind and cash donations. Teton Valley Resort is the Title Sponsor, and Headlining Sponsors include the Bronze Buffalo Sporting Club, Peaked Sports, and Idaho Central Credit Union. Collaborating organizations include Driggs City Public Works, JK Concrete, Avail Construction, Teton Arts, Seniors West of the Tetons, and Teton Regional Economic Coalition, who join a long list of volunteers to make the event possible and successful each year.

Driggs is fortunate to be one of a handful of towns in the west that host a snow sculpting competition.

Thousands of people come from 52 |

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In 2020, “Perilous Crossing” took second place and People’s Choice.

all over the region to experience Snowscapes while enjoying the best of downtown Driggs - hospitality, restaurants, shopping and this unique public art experience in a beautiful setting.

Photo by DDA

For schedule details - www. downtowndriggs.org and @downtowndriggs This article is a paid promotional feature. n Teton Valley News

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Photo by Julia Tellman While you’re out in Teton Valley enjoying its scenic vistas, great recreation, and exceptional businesses, make sure to be a good visitor.

Teton Valley is Worth The Effort Teton Valley rewards the curious: those seeking knowledge, the discovery of wonderful places, and exploration of the pristine. It takes extra work to get to this valley so the effort is appreciated. While you’re here, make sure to be a good visitor—a mantra that encourages respect for wildlife and the many people working hard to make your trip unforgettable.

Your patience, empathy, and kindness will be amply rewarded.

Start your journey by seeing the valley through the lens of the Teton Geo Center, your hub for exploring the region. Say ‘howdy’ to a volunteer and get inside 54 |

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tips on local favorites. Learn the colorful history of the area and take a drive on the Teton Scenic Byway, stretching from Swan Valley to Ashton, where you’ll enjoy seemingly endless vistas while dipping a toe into the Greater Yellowstone Region.

This place is one of a kind. The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is one of the largest intact ecosystems in the Lower 48, representing the absolute best of the world’s wild and wonderful places. As a visitor, you are charged with an important task: Help preserve and protect this incredible hideaway. After all, be it remote

wildernesses or your own backyard, a land is at its best when left better than it was found.

Beyond the fantastic public lands, Teton Valley is a destination all on its own with unique restaurants, shops, and activities.

Our people make it all the more special. Please appreciate your servers, guides, outfitters, and workers. They’ll make sure you enjoy the time spent here.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy the pace of Teton Valley; you’ve entered mountain time now.

This article is a paid promotional feature. n Teton Valley News

Teton Valley

There is so much to explore and enjoy in Teton Valley this winter.

Our remote, rural valley may take a little extra effort to navigate, but the rewards are great.

Book your stay now!

tetonvalleynews.net

Enjoy your visit.

Grand Targhee Resort/David Stubbs

Rewards the Curious

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Jonathan A. McLaren ABR, GRI, RENE

C: 307.413.5238 jonathan.mclaren@jhsir.com jonathanmclaren.jhsir.com

YOUR GUIDE FOR REAL ESTATE IN TETON COUNTY WYOMING & IDAHO

SECLUDED MOUNTAINTOP ESTATE SITE W 10000 S - VICTOR, ID 59.17 ACRES | $1,699,00 | MLS#: 20-3245

TRANQUILITY IN TARGHEE TOWNE 445 TARGHEE TOWNE ROAD - ALTA, WY .34 ACRES | $375,000 | MLS#: 21-700

LARGE ACREAGE OFF SWAN VALLEY HWY 45.31 ACRES | $810,000 | PROPERTY ID: 462D4C 56 |

THE BEST OF TETON VALLEY 2021

Teton Valley News