Season of Giving
As we enter the heart of the holiday season, I’m reminded of how each of us carries special memories that shape how we celebrate today. For many, the essence of this season is found in the warmth of traditions that were woven into our lives when we were young—the smell of fresh-baked cookies, the soft glow of lights, or the joy of gathering with loved ones. Here at Boise Lifestyle, we’ve dedicated this issue to capturing that spirit and showcasing the many ways our community brings the magic of the season to life.
In this Giving Issue, we’re excited to share a thoughtfully curated gift guide that not only makes holiday shopping easier but also supports our incredible local businesses. We’ve also explored the wonderful holiday activities Boise has to offer, from festive events to creative ways we can give back. As you flip through these pages, we hope you’ll find inspiration to create new memories with your loved ones.
While the holidays are a joyful time for many, they can be challenging for others, especially those grieving or feeling alone. In the true spirit of the season, let’s remember to extend kindness and generosity to those around us. This is a season for sharing warmth, lending a hand, and spreading cheer in every way we can.
May this season bring you love, peace, and the reminder that we’re all part of a caring community. Let’s make it one filled with empathy, grace, and gratitude.
Warmest wishes for a joyous holiday season!
VINCE GEWALT, PUBLISHER
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Vince Gewalt | vince.gewalt@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Tricia Busalacchi | tricia.busalacchi@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Jordan Gray | editorial@boisecitylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT ASSISTANT
Maria Serondo | support@boisecitylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Russell Detablan | editorial@boisecitylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sabina Dana Plasse, Pamela Kleibrink Thompson, Ashley Loeb, Chelsea Chambers, Denise Llorente, Rhiannon Johnson, Kimberly Blaker, Steven Schowengerdt
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ashley Loeb, Phil White
Corporate
Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier Learn
Boise Lifestyle is available for pick up at the Boise Metro Chamber, 1101 W. Front St.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Newsworthy in Idaho
A Roundup of Exciting News from Local Organizations
TRICA’S SNOW GLOBE
This December, TRICA will transform into a winter wonderland with the upcoming “TRICA Snow Globe,” scheduled from November 30 to December 8. This multi-sensory experience will captivate attendees with its delightful blend of art and holiday magic. Families and friends will explore a brand new, one-ofa-kind snow globe and enjoy immersive installations that celebrate the beauty of winter. The event will also feature an Over 21 Dance Party, adding a unique twist to the festivities. The community will come together for this enchanting celebration of the season, creating lasting memories for all who attend! trica.org
BRUNDAGE MOUNTAIN’S NEW ADVENTURE CENTER OPENS
This winter, Brundage Mountain Resort welcomed guests to its impressive new Mountain Adventure Center (MAC), a spacious 18,000-square-foot facility that streamlined the ski experience. With key services like ticketing, rentals, and daycare all in one place, visitors enjoyed more time on the slopes. The MAC featured a bright rental shop and the cozy Base Camp Coffee Shop, where guests
gathered to recharge. Families appreciated the new affordable programs, while enhanced fire and EMS services added peace of mind. This successful opening marked a significant step forward for the resort and its community. brundage.com
BOISE’S NEW WRITERS-IN-RESIDENCE
In an inspiring celebration of literature, the Boise City Department of Arts & History has selected Susan Bruns and Alan Heathcock as the 2024-2025 Boise City Writers-in-Residence. Bruns, an essayist celebrated for her vivid storytelling in The Sun and Creative Nonfiction , will take the stage from October 2024 to March 2025, sharing insights from her Idaho upbringing. Following her, Heathcock, the award-winning author of VOLT, will step into the role from April to September 2025, infusing the community with his creative energy. Together, they will craft free public programs at Boise Public Library branches, inviting residents to embark on their own literary adventures. Stay tuned for engaging workshops and events that promise to spark imagination and foster a love for writing throughout Boise! thecabinidaho.org
Photo: LED co-founders Lauren Edson and Andrew Stensaas explore the nonprofit arts organization’s new home in Garden City’s vibrant Live Work Create District, made possible by a $200,000 M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust grant. (Photo by Bethany Blitz)
NEWS RELEASE AND STORY IDEAS: We’re always interested to hear about new business openings, upcoming events, local news items, and community members contributing in new and exciting ways. Email: EDITORIAL@BOISECITYLIFESTYLE.COM | @BOISELIFESTYLE
Shades of Winter
THE AMBROSE SCHOOL
PreK - 12th Classical Christian Education
READY FOR A KINDERGARTEN EXPERIENCE?
We invite new families to participate in our Kindergarten Preview Day. Your kindergartener can experience firsthand how we are distinctly different.
For available dates and to learn more, go to theambroseschool.org
ARTICLE BY CHELSEA CHAMBERS
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
DOWNTOWN BOISE ASSOCIATION
MAKING BRIGHT
winter
It’s a brisk November afternoon; December is just a weekend away. The trees are speckled with sparsely remaining leaves, most of which now gather along the edges of sidewalks and are tucked into alleyways, crunching underfoot. The steam of your cinnamon spiced latte dances out of the cup, warming your fingers. Every streetlight in downtown Boise is adorned with snowflake-shaped lights and pine scented wreaths have started showing up on all the doors and windows. You breathe in the feeling of the holiday season, take a sip of hot coffee and wonder how to spend your day.
Rounding the corner at 6th and Capitol, you hear the joyous sound of children laughing in the distance. There’s something fun going on at the Grove. You walk past the Basque Block, cross Capitol Boulevard, and make your way to the alleyway between the hotel and the Boise Centre. Before you reach the end of the walkway, the source of all that laughter and joy comes into full view.
Wrapped around Boise’s vast and iconic holiday tree is an ice-skating rink! There is a huge smile plastered on every face in the Grove Plaza as they Glide on Grove, fully immersed in the holiday season.
But despite how wonderfully it all came together, this project took a lot of work, planning, and collaboration. “When I arrived to Boise five years ago, I was told that the community had wanted a skate rink in The Grove Plaza for decades, but due to the fact that the Plaza is built over a parking garage, the space could not handle the weight of ice,” said Jennifer Hensley, Downtown Boise Association Executive Director. “Due to my previous experience working for Downtown Fort Collins, I knew that there was an alternative ice product that was lighter-weight and lower maintenance, keeping costs down.”
The partnership of the local community banding together to make a decades-in-the-making project
CONTINUED >
come to fruition is also what makes it completely free to the public! Free skate rentals. Free helmets. Free skate aides. Free access to the rink. And FREE fun for all ages!
Jennifer continued, “The planning and fundraising for the rink took three years. The Plaza is a complicated space with weight restrictions and the fact that it’s not flat, for drainage purposes. Local contractor ESI took on this challenge. They told us that this was one of the most complicated projects they had ever executed. We are very thankful for their partnership!”
Glide of Grove will open on November 29, immediately after the holiday tree lighting ceremony. And this year promises to be even more eventful—more pop ups, more
music, and City Santa returns! Last year’s rink saw over 30,000 skaters! How many can we get this season?
The Downtown Boise Association deserves huge applause for putting this lofty endeavor together. With a small staff of five, the local nonprofit organization helps to put on dozens of events annually, including Alive After 5, Tastes of Downtown, First Thursday, and Small Business Saturday, to name a few. Additional thanks to the many sponsors and volunteers that are a part of the Glide on Grove project including Blue Cross of Idaho, Idaho Central Credit Union, and so many more. Keep your eyes peeled for what’s coming next. There may be a few surprise guests this season…
OUR DECEMBER PICKS —
WANT TO SUGGEST A MONTHLY PICK? GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/BOISE
Our community is home to incredible and innovative business leaders who take pride in offering topnotch services to you, our valued residents. These businesses are committed to delivering excellence and quality in everything they do. This month, we’ve curated a selection of standout companies that excel in providing products and services you may need, making it easier for you to find the best solutions for your lifestyle.
WOMENS CLOTHING
PIERCE UNIQUE
pieceuniqueco.com | (208) 387-0250
FANCY PANTS
shopfancypants.com | (208) 345-3339
SALT & PEPPER
saltbypepper.com | (208) 429-0140
ELLE M BOUTIQUE
ellemmeridian.com | (208) 813-6225
INTUITION
intuitioneagle.com | (208) 370-5003
“From stylish women’s clothing and top-tier hair salons to refreshing taprooms, rejuvenating aesthetic services, and premium med spas, these local
businesses offer everything you need to look and feel your best while enjoying the finest services our community has to offer.”
HAIR SALONS
RAIN SALON
rainsalonandspa.org | (208) 887-7955
MYKALA & CO.
mykalaandco.com | (208) 971-3535
GRAEBER & CO.
graeberandcompany.com | (208) 343-4915
TWO RIVERS
tworiversspa.com | (208) 938-9060
MURRAKI SALON murrakisalon.com | (208) 957-5174
TAPROOMS
LOOSE SCREW BEER CO. loosescrew.beer | (208) 617-3078
VOODOO BREWING CO. meridian.voodoobrewery.com | (208) 888-2321
GOOD APPLE TAPHOUSE gataphouse.com | (208) 329-8720
TAPHOUSE PUB & EATERY
taphouseboise.com | (208) 336-6991
LOST GROVE BREWING lostgrovebrewing.com | (208) 286-2258
AESTHETIC & WELLNESS
ENHANCED AESTHETICS & WELLNESS experience-enhanced.com | (985) 778-7582
TREASURE VALLEY AESTHETICS & WELLNESS treasurevalleyaw.com | (208) 580-7703
EVOLUTION INTEGRATED MEDICINE evolutionintegrativemed.com | (208) 917-2928
GLO BOISE
globoise.com | (208) 344-0594
WELLNESS & AESTHETICS CLINIC OF IDAHO mywellnessidaho.com | (986) 666-3866
MED SPAS
SILK TOUCH MED SPA, LASER & LIPO silktouchmedspa.com | (208) 939-3110
VIBRANT MED SPA bevibrantmedspa.com | (208) 849-1236
FACE & BODY BOUTIQUE faceboutiqueboise.com | (208) 577-7308
SPA 35 MED SPA
spa35.com | (208) 367-0700
KATE ELIZABETH MED SPA instagram.com/kateelizabethmedspa | (208) 918-0894
Cozy Autumn Cookbooks
After a sizzling summer, when the last thing we wanted to do was turn on our ovens or stovetops, autumn has finally arrived. Shorter days and cooler temperatures draw us back into our kitchens to create our favorite comfort foods, but we often find ourselves stuck when it comes to new ideas. Whether you’re the family chef, an entertainer who loves to feed a crowd or a solo cook, you’re likely looking for some seasonal cooking and baking inspiration.
Filled with perfectly curated recipes, mouth-watering photos, cooking tips, and personal insights, the following four new releases are here to help. They offer solutions to your daily dinner dilemmas, celebrate our nation’s vast culinary history, teach you how to bake the best biscuits and satisfy your sweet tooth. Add these amazing cookbooks to your personal collection and you will add hundreds of new recipes to your repertoire, creating an endless array of delicious dinners and desserts. Spend a chilly night expanding your cooking talents or learning a few new baking tricks and watch how a quiet evening at home can quickly transform into something truly special. It’s time to celebrate the season, so put down that delivery app and pick up these tasty new cookbook releases, filled with recipes to keep you happy and cozy all season long.
Warm up your kitchen and celebrate the season
ARTICLE BY RHIANNON JOHNSON
Still We Rise: A Love Letter to the Southern Biscuit with Over 70 Sweet and Savory Recipes
BY ERIKA COUNCIL
Bomb Biscuit Company’s founder and head baker Erika Council pairs her heritage (she’s the granddaughter of legendary soul food chef Mildred Council aka “Mama Dip”) and immense skill set to deliver a heartfelt and tasty tribute to the Southern biscuit. Featuring classics and new favorites, this recipe collection is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Sweet Little Cakes from Mrs. Zabar’s Bakeshop: Perfect Desserts for Sharing
BY TRACEY ZABAR
Smaller size, same big flavor! Tracey Zabar has edited her famous recipes to allow home bakers the opportunity to create their own smaller versions of her famous cakes in the comfort of their own kitchens. Each seasonally organized recipe serves two to six people—perfect for creating a tiny treat to share or to satisfy your own sweet tooth.
The Great American Recipe Cookbook Season 2 Edition:
100 Memorable Recipes to Celebrate the Diversity and Flavors of American Food
There’s something for everyone in this companion cookbook to the second season of The Great American Recipe . The fun, feel-good cooking competition highlights some of our country’s most talented home cooks and captures the rich culinary history of America. From generational family treasures to regional cuisines, this recipe collection exemplifies how food represents and unifies our communities and cultures.
Skinnytaste
Simple: Easy, Healthy Recipes with 7 Ingredients or Fewer
BY GINA HOMOLKA, HEATHER K. JONES, R.D.
Streamline your dinnertime routine with these easy, delicious, and healthy recipes, each requiring seven ingredients or fewer. Featuring 105 original recipes plus 15 beloved fan-favorites from the website, Skinnytaste Simple focuses on using minimum ingredients while delivering maximum flavor and nutrition.
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY LOEB
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY LOEB AND PROVIDED
Flames Fighting the
FIREFIGHTERS DESERVE RECOGNITION AS THEY FACED ESPECIALLY TRYING WILDFIRE SEASON IN IDAHO
Valley Fire
Imagine being startled awake by a loud pop of a power transformer followed by an eerie silence. A rise of choking panic set in as nostrils fill with smoke fumes and eyes catch sight of flames from a bedroom window. Unfortunately, this nightmare experience was a reality for many of us this year as Idaho’s hot and dry summer became the perfect breeding ground for one of its worst wildfire seasons yet.
With an above average number of fires and total acres burned during the 2024 fire season, wildfires affected many parts of Idaho. They cut especially close to home this year in Boise between the Plex Fire burning hundreds of acres of the historic Oregon Trail Reserve in September and the 9000+ acre fire that roared across the foothills a month later north of Warm Springs through Lucky Peak. Thankfully, those flames never reached most structures thanks to the relentless work of firefighters keeping citizens and structures safe from the flames.
Amongst wildfire activity in the Western United States that led to an especially early high level of preparedness, Samantha Storms, Division Chief, External Affairs at BLM Fire, National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) location right here in Boise, Idaho, shared that some of the “most significant burning this year occurred in rangeland fuels, notably in northern California and eastern Oregon, where human and lightning caused fires severely impacted rural communities and natural resources. Rangeland fuels, especially public lands managed by DOI, were a major driver in our fire year 2024 suppression effort. More recently, forested landscapes have come to dominate fire activity, causing among other effects severe smoke impacts across the West.”
Samantha Storms reminds us that beating these fires takes a village. “No one agency can do it alone,
Plex Fire
Wapiti Fire. PC: Kyle Miller
Valley Fire
which is why the federal and state agencies, many based here at NIFC, serve as the logistical and support center for the nation’s wildland fires and, at times, other national disasters and emergencies. Firefighters from the BLM Boise District, in partnership with the Idaho Department of Lands and Boise City Fire Department, responded to a number of fires in or near the Boise city limits in 2024. Community appreciation for these brave men and women does not go unnoticed.”
Samantha adds that part of the success in fighting these devastating fires come from advocates at the Department of the Interior level and beyond that fight to provide support for the hardworking wildland fire personnel. These advocates understand the challenges and successes of wildland firefighting and they influence policies that support our ongoing efforts and underscores the importance of the work we do.
While advocates fight behind the scenes, the rest of the community should continue to rally together to show gratitude and provide recognition to those who are on the front lines, risking their lives against nature, along with those who are working hard to organize and manage this monumental task. It’s also important to note the vital role Idaho residents can play in helping to prevent wildfires, nearly half of which from this year alone, in Idaho, were either suspected or confirmed to be human caused. Remember to avoid any activities that involve fire or sparks when it’s hot, dry, and windy, including parking on dry grass! In the meantime, there’s hope that spring will bring new life and vegetation as wildfires provide a chance for rebirth and also an abundance of morel mushrooms, if we’re lucky!
Valley Fire
Plex Fire
Valley Fire
ARTICLE BY PAMELA KLEIBRINK THOMPSON
Good Vibrations
Joy During the Holidays
Holidays are a joyful time for many, but some people feel down or overwhelmed. Here’s how to keep your spirits up and your stress down.
Know what you enjoy most about the holidays and what you enjoy least. Do you like traipsing through a snowy woods to select the perfect holiday tree? Or would you rather curl up in front of a cozy fireplace and sip hot chocolate after caroling? What is most important to you? Make your desires
Celebrating the holiday with family and friends
known to those who care about you. Don't make them guess. Ask others you care about what’s important to them.
Once you know what’s important to you and others you care about, make time for those activities. Set priorities and make those moments matter.
If you think that the holiday will not be the same without seeing A Christmas Carol or The Nutcracker Ballet, make sure you plan ahead and get your ticket. Do what makes the holiday special for you, whether it’s tubing at Bogus Basin or iceskating at Meridian Village or viewing It’s a Wonderful Life or the Peanuts Christmas special while stringing popcorn for the tree.
Practice being fully in the moment, like a child. Be fully focused on the here and now. Approach the holidays with joyful enthusiasm like when you were younger and believed in flying reindeer. Don’t worry about the future or dwell on the past.
“If both sets of grandparents want the kids at their gatherings, ask for proposed dates well in
advance,” suggest Allana Barnoi and Vicki Webster in their book Simplify the Holidays.
Celebrate the blessing of family. If your kids see that you treasure the opportunity to be with family, they will look forward to future holidays.
If you are feeling especially lonely this holiday, give yourself the gift to feel your feelings and acknowledge them, but don’t wallow in your sadness. Choose to be joyful. You always have a choice in how you feel. Recognize that you do not have the power to make anyone else happy, if they choose otherwise.
Viktor Frankl, who was imprisoned in a Nazi concentration camp, noticed that those who survived were those who experienced an inner freedom of thought. He wrote, “Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms–to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.”
If you are feeling down, find a way to help others. If you have a neighbor or friend who is alone for the holidays plan to spend time with him or her. CONTINUED >
Or maybe you would like to volunteer as a wrapper at Toys for Tots. toysfortotsusa.org/volunteers . Or sort food at the Idaho Food Bank. idahofoodbank.org The Festival of Trees also needs volunteers, and volunteering is a great way to meet new people. saintalphonsus. org/foundation/events/festival-of-trees/volunteer
Don’t stress out about giving gifts and do not go into debt for holiday gifts. The best gift you can give your friend or family member or neighbor is time and showing you care about them and value them. Do it during the holidays and year round.
Make time for rest as well as fun. Balance your schedule and set priorities. If decorating cookies is your idea of an ideal way to spend time, schedule it and make time for it. But if decorating cookies is not your jam, don’t feel obligated to outdo Martha Stewart. Avoid stress and exhaustion by knowing what is most important and realize that you cannot do everything. Being in the moment is what makes moments memorable.
Indulge in simple pleasures frequently, not just during the holidays, but all year.
“Make your desires known to those who care about you.”
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
November 3-4th, 2023
SKIER & SNOWBOARDER HEAVEN
The anticipated ski and snowboard 202425 season for Idaho and surrounding states could be one of the best in decades, especially if La Niña comes through with muchneeded snow. However, one can never be sure of forecasts or predictions as Mother Nature always has the final say. Yet, we can still think about skiing, snowboarding, and other snowsports, which makes living or visiting Idaho an envied state of mind, given all the options and beautiful mountains where we can enjoy winter recreation.
“Idaho is looking forward to another amazing ski and snowboard season this winter,” says Ski Idaho’s Tony Harrison. “We’re fortunate to be home to 19 destinations, and most of them have made noteworthy improvements in anticipation of this winter.”
Every year, improvements are made to the many resorts and local mountains of Idaho, and this coming season is no exception as all eyes in the skiing world will be on Sun Valley Resort, March 22-27, 2025, for the Audi FIS Ski
World Cup Final. “Sun Valley has a long and storied history in ski racing, for many years hosting the revered Harriman Cup, our first FIS World Cup in 1975, and most recently the U.S. Alpine Championships back-to-back,” says Pete Sonntag, Sun Valley Resort GM and VP.
An international spotlight will shine on the hidden Gem state of ski resorts and its 19 destinations, and others just beyond its borders as the World Cup brings attention to Idaho. Plan early this winter to enjoy the very best, from a winter wonderland vacation destination to fulfilling day trips. There’s something everyone desires to hit the slopes this winter, no matter their ability, just a love for snow.
SOUTHERN AND CENTRAL IDAHO
Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area Boise, Idaho | Boise’s go-to ski mountain is replacing two lifts, Coach and Bitterroot, expanding its beginner area, creating two new trails, and implementing several major sustainability initiatives. | bogusbasin.org
A big winter of downhill fun awaits in the Gem State and Beyond CONTINUED >
ARTICLE BY SABINA DANA PLASSE
Kelly Canyon. PC: Aaron Theisen
Maverick Mountain
Pomerelle Mountain Resort
Snowboarding at Tamarack. PC: Sherri Harkin
Brundage Mountain Resort
McCall, Idaho | Brundage Mountain Resort debuts its new Mountain Adventure Center, a new 18,000-squarefoot guest service base lodge that has established its fire department and expanded its EMS services. The Brundage MTN Sports School will offer expanded programs for kids, including the MTN Explorers program for ages seven and up. The state-certified daycare provides care for children ages six weeks to six years. | brundage.com
Magic Mountain Ski Resort
Kimberly, Idaho | Considered one of Idaho's best-kept secrets, Magic Mountain Ski Resort offers 11 trails across 120 acres of skiing and snowboarding and is close to Twin Falls. | magicmountainresort.com
Pomerelle Mountain Resort
Albion, Idaho | The deepest snow in Idaho has an average annual snowfall of 500 inches. Pomerelle’s summit elevation is 8,762 feet above sea level, with a vertical drop of 1,002 feet. There are two triple chairlifts and a magic carpet for the beginner area. | pomerelle.com
Soldier Mountain
Fairfield, Idaho | A true Idaho hidden gem, Soldier Mountain is significantly expanding snowmaking, adding three state-of-the-art TechnoAlpin TR10 snow guns to provide top-to-bottom coverage on the main run under Chair 1, Canyon. Improved mountain signage and brush cutting throughout the inbounds and snowcat terrain will enhance the guest experience. The resort is hosting a Rocky Mountain States Hill Climb Association snowmobile hill climb, January 25-26, 2025, expected to draw more than 1,000 competitors. | soldiermountain.com
Sun Valley
Sun Valley, Idaho | The crown jewel for Idaho skiing, hosting the 2025 World Cup, will replace the highspeed detachable quad on Seattle Ridge with a highspeed detachable six-pack. Plus, the resort has added 91 acres of new gladed terrain in the Sunrise area through the Bald Mountain Stewardship program in partnership with the National Forest Foundation, U.S. Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Management. Sun Valley will also have a bustling events lineup over the World Cup Finals off the slopes. Enjoy live music after the races daily, explore Ketchum and the 5850 Festival, and catch more entertainment at Festival Meadows in Sun Valley. | sunvalley.com
Tamarack Resort
Tamarack, Idaho | A worthwhile destination, Tamarack Resort will debut its mid-mountain lodge for the 2024-25
ski season. Tamarack Resort offers 1,530 acres of skiable terrain with 50 runs featuring everything from open bowls, steeps, cornices, and high-speed corduroy groomers to six named glades, natural tree-skiing areas, challenging backcountry, and three terrain parks. The primarily east-facing slopes receive an average of 300 inches of snowfall and are served by seven lifts, including three high-speed quads, two fixed-grip quads, and two surface lifts. The Wall Street Journal included Tamarack in its Top 100 Ski Resorts list. | tamarackidaho.com
EASTERN IDAHO/WYOMING/MONTANA
Big Sky Resort
Big Sky, Montana | The new Lone Peak Tram, which debuted in December 2023, offers several efficiencies, allowing more tram access, including increased cabin capacity and a dedicated scenic rider line. Nearly a quarter of guests riding the tram last season utilized the new scenic ride option. | bigskyresort.com
Bridger Bowl Ski Area
Bozeman, Montana | Known for its famous Cold Smoke, Bridger Bowl is a locally-focused recreation area that balances quality, affordability, and sustainability to serve its community. | bridgerbowl.com
Grand Targhee Resort
Alta, Wyoming | “Ski the Ghee” is perhaps the supreme powder stash of Idaho and a skier and snowboarder’s delight located four miles across the border in “Wydaho,” only reachable through Driggs, Idaho, in the Teton Valley. grandtarghee.com
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Teton Village, Wyoming | The average annual snowfall at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is 400-500 inches, providing powder days aplenty to skiers and snowboarders each season from the “Teton Flow.” | jacksonhole.com
Maverick Mountain
Polaris, Montana | Maverick boasts 24 Runs, the Riblet Double, and the MavKids Conveyor with runs for every level of experience from beginner to expert. | skimaverick.com
Pebble Creek Ski Area
Inkom, Idaho | Pebble Creek grew its beginner area by installing one of North America’s longest magic carpets at 700 feet. The resort has also significantly expanded its snowmaking capabilities. | pebblecreekskiarea.com
Showdown Montana
Neihart, Montana | Montana’s oldest and only woman-owned ski area. | showdownmontana.com
Soldier Mountain's Pioneer Peak Baldy in Sun Valley. PC: Ray J. Gadd
Grand Targhee Rotarun in Hailey. PC: Ray J. Gadd
Snow King Mountain
Jackson Hole, Wyoming | Established in 1936, Snow King is Jackson Hole’s original ski area and the first in Wyoming. Locals sometimes refer to Snow King as “The Town Hill,” which includes skiing, hiking, North America’s steepest zip line, and many other attractions. | snowkingmountain.com
NORTHERN IDAHO
Lookout Pass Ski And Recreation Area
Mullan, Idaho | Lookout Pass added three new glades and expanded its parking area, adding 150 spaces. Idaho’s oldest ski area, which celebrates its 90th season this winter, also added two new permanent bathrooms at the base of the Eagle Peak chairlift. | skilookout.com
Lost Trail Ski Area
Sula, Montana | At an elevation of 7,000 feet, straddling the Montana and Idaho border, Lost Trail has five double chair lifts, and three rope tows with access to more than 60 defined trails. | losttrail.com
Schweitzer
Sandpoint, Idaho | Schweitzer purchased Selkirk Powder, bringing the snowcat operation in-house. Schweitzer Backcountry Adventures will also offer guided snowmobile tours. The Ski & Ride School will begin offering guided half-day and full-day tours to show guests the best runs on the mountain. New dining experiences include Snowcat Dinners at Sky House and wine-pairing dinners, and Spring Patio DJ Sessions at Crow’s Bench. | schweitzer.com
Silver Mountain Resort
Kellogg, Idaho | Silver Mountain regraded the slopes on several trails, thinned out the cluster of trees between Saddleback and Paymaster to create a new pow stash, and renovated the Mountain House lodge. The home of Idaho’s largest indoor waterpark, it added a new 5,000-squarefoot family-friendly arcade in the Gondola Village that’s expected to open in late December. | silvermt.com
OFF THE BEATEN
PATH
Bald Mountain Ski Area
Pierce, Idaho | Bald Mountain is 100% volunteer and considered "The Best Little Ski Hill in Idaho.” | skibaldmountain.com
Cherry Peak Resort
Richmond, Utah | Cherry Peak Resort provides 1221 vertical feet, three triple chair lifts, and a magic carpet. skicherrypeak.us
Cottonwood Butte Ski Area
Cottonwood, Idaho | Cottonwood Butte Ski Area has four major groomed runs and several powder-filled trails among the trees served by a 3,000-foot-long t-bar. cottonwoodbutte.org
Kelly Canyon Resort
Ririe, Idaho | Kelly Canyon doubled its snowmaking capacity, and its new terrain park will feature new rails and an eight-foot half pipe. The mountain has all-new signage, and the parking lot has been expanded and improved. The resort is also working on a ten-year master plan. | kellycanyonresort.com
Little Ski Hill
McCall, Idaho | Little Ski Hill provides an affordable, accessible, and sustainable winter recreation facility, which offers a full spectrum of winter recreation programs for its surrounding communities while reducing any financial barriers to participation. | payettelakesskiclub.org
Rotarun Ski Hill
Hailey, Idaho | Rotarun completed an exterior renovation of the lodge and installed its third tower snow gun. | rotarun.org
Snowhaven Ski & Tubing Area
Grangeville, Idaho | Snowhaven Ski & Tubing Area offers an individual season pass for skiing and tubing for $250. Full-day lift tickets increase by $1 to $25 per day.
Visit resort websites for specials on passes and tickets, including Ikon, Mountain Collective, Indy Pass, or Powder Alliance multi-resort passes. grangeville.us/snowhaven-facebook2
Feed Your Ski and Snowboard Stoke
Ski Idaho
The Soul of Skiing | Check out Idaho’s 5th & 6th Grade Peak Season Passport with 17 mountains at $29! skiidaho.us
Indy Pass
United We Ski | Seven Ski Idaho destinations include Brundage, Tamarack, Soldier Mountain, Pomerelle, Kelly Canyon, Silver Mountain, and Lost Trail. indyskipass.com
Local Mountain Perks
Passholders may have reciprocal deals with other mountains in Idaho and beyond.
Jackson Hole’s Golden Ticket
Beyond Bogus Season Pass
Powder Alliance membership
Soldier Mountain season pass holder add-ons
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FLOCKING TOGETHER
How Flock Cancer is Helping Treasure Valley Cancer Fighters and Survivors
ARTICLE BY JORDAN GRAY
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Flock Cancer.
While the cheeky message may be hidden behind a flamboyance of pink plastic flamingos, the sentiment is undeniable. And the nonprofit organization behind this clever name is helping cancer survivors across the Treasure Valley, one stroll at a time.
Leading the way is Leslie Scantling, affectionately referred to as the Flock Leader on her business cards.
“Come on, if you ever get the opportunity to have that title, you seize the chance,” she said of the title.
Scantling founded Flock Cancer Idaho in 2021 when the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure pulled out of Boise. Scantling and her mother, Barbara Rhoades, are both breast cancer survivors.
“Our family cadence was to have what I call my ‘Pink Party’ the night before the Komen event where mom, all her friends from McCall, and our family would celebrate, then go do the walk the following morning,” Scantling said. “After I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016, the joint celebration was very important for us to get to mark the occasion together. When there was no walk, my initial thought was that I still wanted to have something to mark the occasion. I didn’t realize how important it was for us to get the chance to celebrate our survivorship until it was taken away from us.”
“My daughter Leslie and I were heartbroken at the loss of our annual celebration activity and bemoaned the even greater loss to the community as a whole,” Rhoades said. “My daughter felt compelled to do something about the loss and Flock Cancer was born.”
What started out as a walk with friends wearing fun shirts turned into a fundraiser. As more friends and survivor groups asked to join, the effort snowballed.
“With very little planning and word of mouth, about 300 people showed up and we raised just over $25,000!” Scantling said. “Participants that year looked at me and said, ‘Same time next year, right?’ That is what really showed me that there was a big need in the survivor community to keep an event in our Valley.”
Thus, the Flock Cancer Street Stroll became an annual event, occurring the Saturday before Mother’s Day each May. And the flamingo flock made the perfect mascot.
“For the first 23 years, when I would have my ‘Pink Party’ for my mom, we would decorate,” Scantling said. “And living on Harrison Boulevard, it was fun to have the decor spill out onto the front yard. I rented the flamingo flock from Franz Witte for the whimsical fun of it on the Boulevard, so the theme seemed natural when I created my organization.”
Now, the Stroll is packed with plastic pink flamingos and a joyous street fair atmosphere as participants walk their loop around Harrison Boulevard in Boise.
“There are costumes and decorations and music and a lot of laughter and tears,” Scantling said. “One of the most fun elements of the Stroll is the participation and support of the homeowners along Harrison Boulevard who set up cheering stations with various types of fun engagement, from pink lemonade to games to music. We also block off one side street for the ‘Flock Party,’ where we have food, photos, music, face painting, and a survivor tent. And, of course, we have onsite mammograms available the whole morning.”
Scantling said Flock Cancer has raised over $300,000 to support cancer fighters, survivors, and programs in the Treasure Valley and surrounding rural communities.
“I am in awe and so proud of (Leslie’s) selfless efforts on behalf of cancer survivors in our area,” Rhoades said.
And the help goes beyond medical needs.
“We feel it is our mission to be the caretakers for the survivor experience and advance our mission to promote awareness and screening,” Scantling said. “Beyond that, we are really listening to the needs of our survivor community to identify the gaps in support they might be feeling. One that we identified is in dental/oral care for women going through chemotherapy, which can be so hard and corrosive on our gums and soft tissue. In honor of a survivor
CONTINUED >
sister who lost her struggle to a related cancer, we created Cary’s Care Kits to provide oral and dental products specifically to combat chemo-related mouth sores, dry mouth, etc.”
Scantling said her work with Flock Cancer has shown her how caring and generous the community is.
“Considering (breast cancer) affects 1 in 8 people, it is hard to find a family that has not had direct impact by the disease,” she said. “It really motivates people to participate and get involved in a cause that is so close to so many hearts.”
And Scantling has applied lessons from her own experience with cancer.
“I am a fourth-generation breast cancer survivor,” she said. “I generally assumed it wasn’t a matter of if, but just when it might happen to me. But that doesn’t really prepare you for the fear and impact of getting that call. It took me a while to be able to process my own survivor journey, as it was a period of my life fraught with compound trauma. So it is part of my own healing journey to help others who are coming after me.”
Providing support for others helps guide Flock Cancer’s flight path.
“I feel so very strongly about supporting the newly diagnosed women and men who join our community,” Scantling said. “Cancer can be so very isolating. And survivorship is emotionally complex in its own way. Being able to walk with women through this journey, empathize with them on their dark days and the emotions that can come along with it all, and ultimately help to take this journey of pain and darkness and turn it into something with celebration and joy is what fills my heart.”
For those facing their own cancer diagnosis, Scantling had the following advice: “Don’t go it alone. Have someone with you at appointments and consultations. The trauma and stress you undergo after a diagnosis is a significant PTSD event and it can be hard to comprehend and take it all in during consultations. The survivor community is here to provide support and offer perspective, as we have walked this path and are here to help you along the journey.”
If you’re interested in helping out Flock Cancer, email info@flockcanceridaho.org or visit flockcanceridaho.org for ways to get involved.
HOLIDAY SAVVY:
SURVIVE THE SEASON WITH YOUR FINANCES INTACT
ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY BLAKER
PLANNINGYOURGIFT
BUDGET
BASED ON VALUE, NOT PRICE , IS AN EXCELL E N T
With higher credit card interest rates, consumers will feel more of a pinch with holiday gift shopping this year. Throw in the costs of holiday cards, decorating, baking, holiday dinners, and unplanned purchases, and holiday shopping can add up to a heap of change.
Many people are set back financially for months, if not longer, following the holiday season. One big reason for this is that credit cards make it easy to overspend, leaving individuals and families to suffer the consequences later. The problem with credit cards isn’t just the monthly payments. It’s the longterm cost from accrued interest.
So what can you do to ensure you start the new year without new debt?
First, create a holiday budget. Include gifts, food, decorations, and postage for holiday cards, wrapping supplies, and the babysitter for your shopping trip. Then review your list, and decide where you can cut costs.
Gifts to extended family and friends are an excellent place to start. Talk to those you exchange gifts with, and see if they’ll either forego the gift exchange or set a dollar limit. Another option for families or groups is to draw names. This will reduce the number of gifts everyone has to buy. Doing a white elephant gift exchange is also a fun option.
Planning your gift budget based on value rather than the amount to spend on each person is also an excellent way to reduce your holiday expense. Decide in advance on a gift value for each gift recipient. Then look for great buys. Let’s say you’ve decided on a gift value of $50 for your sister. Now, try to find a gift that’s a $50 value but only costs you
CONTINUED >
“PLANNING YOUR GIFT BUDGET BASED ON VALUE RATHER THAN THE AMOUNT TO SPEND ON EACH PERSON IS ALSO AN EXCELLENT WAY TO REDUCE YOUR HOLIDAY EXPENSE.”
HOLIDAY SAVVY
$30 or $40. If you have many gifts to buy, this can shave a lot of expense.
Do you usually send out more holiday cards than you receive? If so, opt instead for a phone call during the holiday season. This is particularly meaningful for those you don’t talk to often, and it won’t cost you a thing. Another option is to only mail cards to those who send one to you.
Cut back on the baking. When’s the last time you heard someone complain of a shortage of holiday goodies? Probably never. Most of us eat far more than we’d like to just because it’s there.
If you’re hosting any parties, hold potluck dinners instead of playing head chef. You could offer to provide the meat. Then ask everyone to bring a specific type of dish to avoid duplicates.
Eliminate your babysitting expense by exchanging babysitting with a neighbor — that way, each of you has the opportunity to shop without the kids.
Plan your shopping before you head out. Do online research to find the best deals on the items on your shopping list. If you can’t find a good deal on something, consider an alternative. Also, check newspaper fliers and the ‘coupon’ page of the store websites you plan to shop.
If possible, leave credit cards at home when you go shopping to avoid impulse purchases. Many people spend far more than they intend by purchasing irresistible spur of the moment bargains.
Finally, if you use your credit card, try to make a realistic plan to double or triple your monthly payments. This will reduce your interest expense and quickly eliminate your debt.
FINALLY, IF YOU USE YOUR CREDIT CARD, TRY TO MAKE A REALISTIC PLAN TO DOUBLE OR TRIPLE YOUR MONTHLY PAYMENTS. THIS WILL REDUCE YOUR INTEREST EXPENSE AND QUICKLY ELIMINATE YOUR DEBT.
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
HOTEL GRAND 43
reopening
Unveiling new renovations, celebrating local culture and community connections
Hotel 43 celebrated its Grand Re-opening on October 3rd with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, showcasing its recent renovations.
The downtown Boise boutique hotel, known for its local roots, offered attendees tours of its updated rooms featuring locally crafted designs.
The event, hosted in partnership with the Boise Chamber, highlighted the hotel’s connection to the city’s culture and community. Guests also enjoyed food catered by Chandlers, the Forbes-rated steakhouse attached to the hotel. The new renovations aim to enhance the guest experience while continuing to offer a local and artistic flair that reflects Boise’s unique character.
Non-Surgical Facelift
Boise + Eagle Events
DECEMBER 2024
1 — WINTER WONDER MARKET
The Riverside Hotel, 10 AM: Festive shopping with 90 local vendors, free Santa photos, kids’ activities, and workshops. thisisboise.com
1-31 — WINTER GARDEN AGLOW
Botanical Garden: Experience the magic of Winter Wonderland. idahobotanicalgarden.org
5 — SIXPENCE NONE THE RICHER
Treefort Music Hall, 7 PM: A great evening of good music and a relaxed vibe. treefortmusichall.com
6 — JINGLE JAM
Egyptian Theatre, 7:30 PM: The ultimate holiday concert! egyptiantheatre.net
6 — BOISE BIRDING
Jim Hall Foothills Learning Center, 9 AM: Binoculars available to borrow. cityofboise.org
6-8 — THE BOISE CHRISTMAS SHOW
Expo Idaho, 11 AM: Over 225 vendors with thousands of unique gifts — and Santa and Mrs. Claus! boisechristmasshow.com
6-8 — TRICA’S SNOW GLOBE
TRICA 1406 W Eastman St., 4 PM: A magical, reimagined world of wonder! trica.org
6-8 — THE NUTCRACKER
Morrison Centre: Experience the magic of the holidays with Ballet Idaho. morrisoncenter.com
7 — WINTER WONDERLAND
Downtown Boise, 10 AM: Holiday floats, rad cars, local businesses, school bands, choirs, and more. boiseholidayparade.org
7 — WINTER HOLIDAY MARKET
2840 Wildwood St., 10 AM: Shop, enjoy food trucks, and get FREE photos with Santa! fb.com
7 — AN IDAHO COUNTRY CHRISTMAS
Egyptian Theatre, 7:30 PM: Kick off the holiday season with Idaho’s top musicians! egyptiantheatre.net
7 — HOLIDAY BAZAAR
North Star Charter School, 10 AM: A fun day of supporting small businesses. eaglechamber.com
7 — SOCKEYE HOLIDAY MARKET
Sockeye Grill & Brewery, 10 AM: Find unique gifts and enjoy our award-winning craft beer. fb.com
7 — $3 THURSDAY
Zoo Boise, 10 AM: $3 admissions every Thursday this winter. zooboise.org
7-14 —EAGLE COUNTRY CHRISTMAS
Eagle City Hall: Festive tree displays and more! cityofeagle.org
9 — BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
Zoo Boise, 8:30 AM: Enjoy breakfast, crafts, animal experiences, and photos with Santa, then explore the zoo! zooboise.org
14 —BOISE SANTACON 2024
Suite 104, 1 PM: Dress in your holiday best and explore the best-decorated bars. discotech.me
14 — HARRY POTTER FESTIVAL & VENDOR SHOW
Expo Idaho, 10 AM: Dress in your wizarding robes or muggle attire and explore over 50 local vendors! untamedwitch.com
14 — A CHRISTMAS STORY
Boise Little Theatre: A heartwarming musical adventure. boiselittletheater.org
15-24 — THE NUTCRACKER
Morrison Center: A timeless holiday classic. morrisoncenter.com
16 — LATIN DANCE FESTIVAL 2024
Idaho Dancesport, 7 PM: An electrifying mix of dazzling entertainment, hot Latin dancing, and delicious food! fb.com
17-22 — BEETLEJUICE
Morrison Centre: The Musical. The Musical. The Musical. morrisoncenter.com
21 — UGLY SWEATER BAR CRAWL
Suite 104, 5 PM: An epic evening of festive cheer and hilarious holiday sweaters. pubcrawls.com
21 — YMCA CHRISTMAS RUN
Boise High School: Family Event running or walking together. runsignup.com
23 — FAMOUS IDAHO POTATO BOWL
Albertson’s Stadium, 12:30 PM: Enjoy thrilling football, festive fun, and Idaho’s famous potatoes. famousidahopotatobowl.com
31 — NEW YEAR’S EVE 2025
Idaho State Capitol, 6 PM: Ring in the new year with the iconic Idaho® Potato Drop! idahopotatodrop.com
31 — NYE BAR CRAWL
Pengilly Saloon, 8 PM: Dress to impress and explore over 10 parties in the heart of Boise. discotech.me
