Sun Valley Magazine | Winter 2024-2025 by Sun Valley Magazine

CABIN

BACKCOUNTRY AND HUT SKI ACCESS

PIONEER

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has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. Warning, the California Bureau of Real Estate has not inspected, examined in any jurisdiction where prior qualification is required and no marketing or sales literature will be forwarded to or disseminated in right to make modifications to the offering in its sole discretion. Membership in the Club is not guaranteed and requires the payment U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. Scenes and views may be of a location not on or

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contents // features

88 WORLD CLASS

The FIS World Cup of Alpine Racing Showcases Sun Valley’s Steepness BY JAKE MOE

104 NIGHTLIFE AT THE TOP

A Photo Essay of the Heroes of Snow Grooming BY CLINT KOEHLER

112

SUN

VALLEY SUNS HOCKEY PREPARES FOR ITS GOLDEN MOMENT

Suns Hockey Club Celebrates its 50th Anniversary BY JEFF CORDES

98 profiles

TATIANA LAWSON BY DICK DORWORTH

DR. TONY BUONCRISTIANI BY CRISTY SELLAS

ADELE SAVARIA BY LORI WILLIAMS

ON THE COVER

Skiing the backcountry steeps around Pioneer Cabin from an expedition of local guides and photographers.

PHOTO BY YANCY CALDWELL

72 getout there

FROM THE ARCHIVES

A Look Back at the World Cup Alpine Championships of 1975 and 1977

THE MAGIC’S BACK

The New Owners of Merlin’s Magic Lantern Cinema Help Keep Movies Alive

SOLDIER MOUNTAIN IS FLYING HIGH

U.S. Ski & Snowboard partnership brings jumps and upgrades

CULTURE WITH ELEVATION

5850 Fest Aims to Blend Culture with FIS World Cup

FIVE KEY NUTRIENTS FOR LONGEVITY

Tips on How to Boost Natural Energy for a Longer and Healthier Life

LONGEVITY AND THE IMPORTANCE OF REST

Lengthen Your Life with Quality Sleep 6-DIMENSIONAL FITNESS

SUN VALLEY’S FORGOTTEN PATH

The Beloved Pioneer Cabin’s Lofty History

FROZEN FUN ON MAGIC RESERVOIR

A Guide to Ice Fishing

120 inthearts

FROM WAR TO WASTELAND

Nick Brandt Portraits of Casualties in the Climate Crisis

THE CULTURAL CONNECTION

The Argyros Performing Arts Center is Bringing Culture and Conversation Together

142 food&drink

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE Recipes for Hot Cocoa Weather in Idaho

online // sunvalleymag.com

Sun Valley Magazine IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Sun Valley Magazine is thrilled to announce our latest achievement on the national stage—this time related to the 2024 FOLIO: Eddie & Ozzie Awards. This marks the 14th time our publications have been recognized by this prestigious program, which celebrates excellence in editorial content and outstanding design for both print and digital media.

This year, Sun Valley Magazine was honored in four distinct categories, showcasing our commitment to delivering high-quality, impactful content and award-winning design. Chosen from more than 1,000 entries spanning a range of print and digital categories, Eddie and Ozzie award finalists received the highest scores in their respective categories as judged by a panel of peers comprised of editorial and design professionals.

The 2024 award nominations mark more than 58 national design and editorial nominations for Sun Valley Magazine and Mandala Media publications honoring excellence in magazine design and photography over the past 25 years, and it puts Sun Valley Magazine in a “who’s who” of the publishing industry’s leading national editors, publishers and designers. Past winners include Travel & Leisure, Fortune, National Geographic Traveler, Elle, Audubon, Architectural Record, Bon Appetit, Harper’s Bazaar, Smithsonian Magazine and Vogue.

“This level of recognition from the Eddie & Ozzie Awards in multiple categories is an incredible honor that reflects the breadth and depth of our editorial coverage and design excellence with each and every issue of Sun Valley Magazine,” said Laurie Sammis of Mandala Media, publisher of Sun Valley Magazine and TASTE of Sun Valley

“It takes a collective effort to empower our editors and designers, along with our writers and photographers, to create such solid, awardworthy content,” added Sammis. “It is an honor and a privilege to be the recipient of this level of national recognition.”

BEST COVER DESIGN OZZIE WINNER

Summer 2023 Cover, Photo by Hillary Maybery

BEST FEATURE DESIGN

OZZIE WINNER

“Men of Steel” feature, Fall 2023, Photos by Timothy Floyd

BEST USE OF PHOTOGRAPHY IN A FEATURE OZZIE

WINNER

“ Kings of Rodeo” feature, Summer 2023, Photos by Hillary Maybery

BEST FEATURE ARTICLE, EDITORIAL

EDDIE HONORABLE MENTION

“Men of Steel” feature, Fall 2023

PK’s Ski and Sports has taken great pride in exceeding the expectations of each and every guest when it comes to service—before, during and after every sale. PK’s offers a wide range of ski apparel to fit every need and budget. We feature skis, boots and bindings from Salomon, Head, Fischer, Nordica and K2 just to name a few. PK’s Ski and Sports is open 7 days a week from 8am to 6pm with the same starting line-up and same wonderful service, the same smiling friendly faces and the same over-the-top extras.

CLINT

KOEHLER

Clint grew up at a small resort in Utah called Sundance and became obsessed with snowcats as he watched their lights on the hill at night. Clint then started grooming in 1998 at Deer Valley and has left the career multiple times, but he keeps finding his way back into a cat. Clint has 10 seasons of experience in Deer Valley, Alta and Sun Valley. He is almost always equipped with his little Fuji camera, a few lenses and a tripod for each grooming shift, as the views of the mountain make it easy to capture unique shots. You can find more amazing shots on his Instagram page @clintkoehler.

Photos by Clint Koehler:

“Nightlife at the Top” page 104

DR. KATE ERICKSON

Dr. Kate Erickson is the owner of Integrate Internal Medicine, a Functional Medicine practice in Ketchum, Idaho, where she focuses on root-cause medicine and health optimization. Dr. Erickson received her undergraduate degree in Dietetics from Idaho State University and her medical degree from Western University of Health Sciences. She then furthered her training in Internal Medicine at the University of New Mexico before moving to the Wood River Valley in 2019. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, skate skiing, and spending time with her family.

Stories by Dr Kate Erickson:

“Five Key Nutrients for Longevity,” page 50 and “Lengthen Your Life with Quality Sleep,” page 54

RAY J. GADD

Ray J. Gadd is a born-andraised Idahoan but an equal opportunity adventurer with a hankering for documenting the journey no matter the location. Uncovering unfamiliar smiles, stories, mountaintops, and backyard businesses, in search of preserving that emotion with each frame are his favorite parts of the journey. Happiest enjoying post-ride beers, coming up for air on deep days of storm skiing, overcoming the trials and tribulations of casting to educated fish and sprinkling in the occasional type II fun. Stalk him on Instagram at @rayjgadd.

Photos by Ray Gadd: “Suns Hockey Prepared for a Golden Moment,” page 112 and “Baby, It’s Cold Outside,” page 142

JEFF CORDES

A proud Jersey Boy and Cornell University graduate, longtime Hailey resident Jeff Cordes started his 52-year newspaper reporting career in 1972 in Holyoke, Massachusetts. He served as Idaho Mountain Express sports editor for 43 years and remains a member of its board of directors. He and his wife Diane have two children, Laura Gvozdas of Hailey and James Cordes of Bend, Oregon, and four grandchildren. Jeff congratulates Sun Valley Magazine for its 50-plus years of quality publications.

Stories by Jeff Cordes: “Suns Hokey Prepared for a Golden Moment,” page 112

in this issue

writers - Riley Boice, Jeff Cordes, Dick Dorworth, Dr. Kate Erikson, Sarah Linville, Jonathan Mentzer, Jake Moe, Bill Nurge, Laurie Sammis, Cristy Sellas, Lori Williams

photographers & illustrators - Travis Amick, Yancy Caldwell, Lillie Cooper, The Community Library Jeanne Rodger Lane Center for Regional History, Heather Flood Daves, Ray Gadd, Hayden Gilmour, Dev Khlasa, Clint Koehler, Steven Kornreich, Anni Miller, Ryan Mooney, Amanda René Nagy, Paulette Phlipot, Tal Roberts, Nancy Whitehead.

LISA A.K. KIRCHENBAUER

flySUN

ONE STOP TO THE WORLD

WINTER 2024/2025

publisher/editor in chief L aurie C. Sammis

managing editor J onathan Mentzer

associate editor Cristy Sellas

guest art directors L illie Cooper R oberta Morcone

s ales & marketing director H eather Linhart

c opy editor Patty Healey

controller Brenda Carrillo

c irculation director Nancy Whitehead

Sun Valley Magazine Online: sunvalleymag.com email: info@sunvalleymag.com

Sun Valley Magazine Awards

2024 OZZIE AWARDS

Gold Winner, Best Cover Design - Summer 2023

Gold Winner, Best Feature Design - “Men of Steel”

Gold Winner, Best Use of Photography in a Feature - “Kings of Rodeo”

2024 EDDIE AWARDS

Finalist, Best Feature Article, “Men of Steel”

2018 MAGGIE AWARDS

Finalist, Best Feature Article - “Primal Necessity”

2017 MAGGIE AWARDS

Finalist, Best Feature Article - “The Long Journey Back” Finalist, Best Profile - “A Life in the Sky”

2016 MAGGIE AWARDS

Finalist, Best Feature Article - “The Great Migration”

2015 MAGGIE AWARDS

Finalist, Best Annuals & One-Time Custom Publication/Consumer Finalist, Best Cover/Consumer

2014 MAGGIE AWARDS

Finalist, Best Annuals & One-Time Custom Publication/Consumer

2013 MAGGIE AWARDS

Finalist, Best Semi-Annual & Three-Time/Trade & Consumer

Finalist, Best Special Theme Issue/Consumer

2012 MAGGIE AWARDS

Winner, Best Semi-Annual & Three-Time/Trade & Consumer

2011 MAGGIE AWARDS

Finalist, Best Semi-Annual & Three-Time/Trade & Consumer

Finalist, Best Special Theme Issue/Consumer

2010 MAGGIE AWARDS

Finalist, Best Semi-Annual & Three-Time/Trade & Consumer

Finalist, Best Special Theme Issue/Consumer

2010 OZZIE AWARDS

Gold Winner, publication fewer than 6 times per year

2010 EDDIE AWARDS

Gold Winner, publication fewer than 6 times per year

2010 MAGGIE AWARDS

Finalist, Best Semi-Annual & Three-Time/Trade & Consumer

2009 MAGGIE AWARDS

Winner, Best Semi-Annual & Three-Time/Trade & Consumer

Sun Valley Hosts the World Cup and Lange Cup in 1975

Fast Finish for Sun Valley’s 39th Winter Season

EXCERPT REPRINTED FROM SUN VALLEY MAGAZINE, APRIL 1975 ISSUE, WORDS BY ANNI MILLER

In the March issue of Sun Valley Magazine we featured the upcoming World Cup races and the Lange Cup. As Spring flowers began to bloom in April and May, championship garlands have already been

awarded to Ingemar Stenmark of Sweden for the Men’s Harriman Cup and to Hanny Wenzel of Lichtenstein for her win of the Women’s Harriman Cup. Two weeks later, Pro Henri “Du Du” Duvillard won the Lange Cup

skiing for Dynastar and Salomon.

The Valley was flooded, but not with spring rains (it had recently snowed, in fact) when the month of March began. Racers coaches, race officials, international press and national

All eyes were on Sun Valley in 1975; as technology has changed, the love of skiing has only increased.

press representatives, as well as the usual crowd of race camp followers, flowed into this small mountain community in the second week of March for the only World Cup race to be held in the United States this year.

Fourteen international teams raced in the three-day event: France, Austria, Australia, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Lichtenstein, Italy, San Marino, Spain, Poland, Canada and the United States, giving Sun Valley the truly international flavor so much of the surroundings suggest. ï

THIS PAGE (clockwise from top left):

Bobby Cochran of Vermont finished in the top 15 money makers. 1977 World Cup finish line. Past winners of the Lange Cup from Left to Right: Andre Duvillard, Lasse Hamre, Harald Steufer, Tyler Palmer and Henri Duvillard (receiving his award). A dual course, where racers compete head-to-head, the average time from start to finish of the race down Greyhawk run was less than 1 minute. A kiss at the finish.

OPPOSITE PAGE (clockwise from top):

Anna-Marie Proell of Austria (center) didn’t have to work too hard to keep her World Cup standing. Terry Palmer. Exhibition Ski Lift. Henri Duvillard racing the slalom course against Hugo Nindl, who was the 1974 season’s big-money winner. Gustavo Thoeni of Italy after winning the World Cup Slalom.

The Magic’s Back

New owners of Merlin’s Magic Lantern flaunt four screens and the best popcorn in the valley

WORDS BY CRISTY SELLAS PHOTOS

Rick Kessler had owned the Magic Lantern Cinemas for 50 years, but Bob Peterson now holds the keys, and he has changed the name to Merlin’s Magic Lantern after his beloved rescue dog of 11 years. Kessler was and is a die-hard movie fan and has been showing movies in Ketchum since 1974. The last thing he wanted was to sell to a buyer planning to scrape his life’s work. Thankfully, Bob Peterson came along—a Ketchum native who spent every Friday night of his youth at the Magic Lantern

and has a true passion for movies and theater.

Peterson attended the Sun Valley Community School and earned a bachelor’s degree in Cinema-Television and Business from Southern Methodist University in Texas. Peterson currently resides in Los Angeles, owning and running a television development and production company. (Though he’s been in Sun Valley working as hard as he’s ever worked for the past few months.)

When asked if he’s now living in the Sun Valley area, he said, “temporarily and also

indefinitely!” He took a chance to purchase the Magic Lantern mainly because movies were and are so important to him, and he grew up finding this joy at the Magic Lantern. When he saw that Kessler was selling, he felt like he personally had to save the theater from oblivion. Not only does he have TV and movie production on his resume, but he also has enough real estate knowledge to know that if anything were to happen to the Magic Lantern, “we’d never have a movie theater in Ketchum again.”

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MOVIE THEATERS: DYING OR EVOLVING?

During the pandemic, over 2,000 movie theaters closed their doors for good. Theater chains across America have shut down dozens of theaters in recent years. Cineworld, the owner of Regal Cinemas, filed for bankruptcy in September of 2022 after struggling during and after Covid. Overall, ticket sales have fallen 38% in the past decade, and ticket prices have also increased by 33%. Beyond the price of tickets, inflation has caused food prices to go up, so concessions at the theater keep rising as well. One tub of popcorn might cost $10, with another $5 for a soda, so buying snacks and drinks for the whole family can quickly get expensive. Some say the theater-going experience needs to be unique and customized to battle the ease of streaming at home. The industry is working to regain customers, and some major movie theater chains, including Regal Cinemas, Cinemark and Cineplex, are investing $2.2 billion to improve the cinematic experience with laser projection technology, immersive sound systems, and ultracomfortable seats.

And in saving the theater, he was saving his own memories. He says that, right now, everything still feels “pretty surreal,” but he’s honored and happy to be able to make it work.

Peterson also wants the four-screen theater to have a restaurant and a bar, just as Kessler had initially envisioned. He sees Merlin’s as becoming the center of entertainment for the town, with family events and more. He plans to refurbish the site and upgrade all the technology involved, including switching to digital tickets. For now, though, he’s mostly working on infrastructure (digital and tech upgrades) to stay open.

Peterson, whose family is The Barry Peterson Jewelers, purchased the entire building, including a hair salon, an eye doctor and a needle-point business. Within the building, there’s another

theater screen space that Peterson plans to rent as an event space—not only for screenings but private celebrations and even for those visiting “Hollywood types” to have a space to work on post-production possibly.

These days, movie theaters face challenges. Are they dying out? Maybe. But it’s safe to say that there will always be the loyal few who know and understand that nothing can compare to the magic of the cinema.

Since the pandemic, the number of people going to the movies has decreased, leading to lower box office numbers, fewer wide releases, and higher ticket prices. Peterson said, “With Covid, people just got out of the habit of going to the movies—with anticipating what new movies were coming out on any given weekend!”

This economic reality, coupled with the fact that most movies are available to stream almost immediately, has led to many theater chains closing theaters across the country.

Most people have not only become accustomed to staying at home but prefer the comfort of their own living room (or private theater, in some cases) to the trek to the “cinema.” Dinner out and a movie have been replaced by DoorDash and Netflix.

And there are significant perks to being at home. There are no lines, no chatty folks nearby, pauses for bathroom breaks, etc. Plus, these days, it’s not cheap to go to the movies, especially for a family. And it’s becoming increasingly affordable to have “virtually” the same experience at home— you can’t beat an 85-inch TV screen and your lazy

Bob Peterson (bottom left) kept the aura of Magic Lantern but will change some necessary features to compete with the home theater experience. Soon, Merlin’s Magic Lantern will have an updated look, high-end food options, and high-tech viewing and sound equipment, all while keeping the old-fashioned cinema feel.

boy. The only thing still impossible at home is an IMAX experience (125-foot screens!)

So, movie theaters have been forced to evolve, with improvements in sound and picture quality, seating comfort and gourmet food and drinks. Some people still believe that it is more fun to watch a movie in a theater, especially a comedy, because laughter is truly scientifically contagious. A good jump scare in a horror film is

‘‘This was and is a very special opportunity—with this theater in this town—I want to build on what is already here and not lose the character of the original but make it more robust—make it something the whole town can continue to enjoy!”

—BOB PETERSON

also a different experience in a theater, with the other audience members screaming alongside you. It becomes something special, something communal—not just another night at home.

Peterson met with his employees (all carried over from the Kessler days) and reminded them that when the producers and the film crews undertook the incredibly hard work of making these movies, they envisioned a real movie audience in a movie theater, watching their film. And now Peterson and his crew have the honor of presenting that film—the culmination of all that hard work—to an actual cinema audience— focused, present, and ready to take it all in. This is true about every film Peterson and the rest of the crew at Merlin’s will feature, something that Peterson thinks about and doesn’t take lightly.

Cheers to Bob Peterson for doing his part in saving the hopefully not-dying tradition of the old-fashioned cinema. He feels he’s been given a special opportunity, which may have happened for a reason. He said, “The stars aligned, and if I didn’t do it…who would?

For those of us “of a certain age,” the magic of the movies will never die. And for Peterson he’s now in the rare position of being able to provide that magic for movie lovers of all ages. ï

Soldier Mountain is Flying High

U.S. Ski & Snowboard partnership brings jumps and upgrades

‘‘This is a hug win for a small, independent ski resort like Soldier Mountain.”

—DAVID ALDEN, SOLDIER MOUNTAIN GENERAL MANAGER

Idaho will play host to many Olympians, former Olympians and World Cup athletes this winter. In addition to the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Finals at Sun Valley Resort in March 2025, Soldier Mountain, which is just outside Fairfield, Idaho, will serve as the location for the inaugural annual training camps for the Hydro Flask U.S. Snowboard Team and the Stifel U.S. Freeski Team.

The three-year partnership inked this winter will allow Soldier Mountain (best known as the resort actor Bruce Willis once owned) to enhance its snowmaking system, more than doubling the Southern Idaho ski area’s snowmaking capacity. Two brand new state-of-the-art TechnoAlpin TR10 snow guns have already been acquired and will ensure skiers and riders enjoy full top-to-

bottom coverage on the runs North Ridge and Canyon, where much of the training will be centered.

“This is a huge win for a small, independent ski resort like Soldier Mountain,” General Manager David Alden said. “One of the things that makes Soldier Mountain so attractive is that we’re small enough to be nimble and eager to try new things. And U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s financial and philosophical commitment to a small ski area like Soldier Mountain will ensure we offer a sustainable domestic training venue for the world’s best snowsports athletes for many years to come.”

A training facility for the slopestyle teams is already in the works as part of the Soldier Mountain Snow Training Center, which serves

WORDS BY LAURIE SAMMIS PHOTOS COURTESY THE U.S. SKI AND SNOWBOARD TEAM

competitive athletes throughout the Western U.S. Designed by world-renowned terrain park builder Charles Beckinsale, the site will support the slopestyle teams’ needs for largescale jumps, which are part of competition but not widely available for training. Beckinsale will personally construct the training facility underneath the High Trail Express Lift (Chair 1) on the Canyon run, which will also benefit from enhanced snowmaking this year.

“Soldier Mountain has presented us with a unique opportunity to build world-class jumps in the USA at a time of year that will give our Slopestyle teams a huge advantage going into the competition season,” Hydro Flask U.S. Snowboard Team Sport Director Rick Bower said. The teams will train in December and late March.

Stifel U.S. Freeski Team Sport Director Skogen Sprang agreed, adding that the teams are “excited to explore a new location that is so passionate about freeskiing and snowboarding and are looking forward to seeing what kind of magic Soldier Mountain can make up there.”

Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) Freeski and Snowboard team members anticipate being able to use Soldier Mountain’s improved training facilities.

“The long partnership of the core team running the annual Sammis-Camus downhill, which brought the first ski training camps to Soldier Mountain more than a decade ago, deserves a lot of credit for this type of concept focused on forging partnerships with smaller mom-and-pop ski mountains,” said SVSEF Executive Director Scott McGrew.

“It is essential to community building and keeping the heart of ski culture alive and really helps smaller mountains create sustainable branding and unique offerings that give them a place in the ski ecosystem.”

Soldier Mountain’s Alden agrees. “U.S. Ski & Snowboard is dedicated to creating training opportunities at the grassroots level,” Alden said. “Bringing a training venue of this magnitude to the western region gives up-and-coming snowboarders and freeskiers who are looking to compete at a higher level but can’t afford to travel far to train an unprecedented opportunity to hone their big-air skills. It’s like the major leagues building a new stadium for the minor leagues because they realize they need to nurture the next generation of pros.”ï

With a partnership with the U.S. Ski & Snowboard team, the secret will be out as Soldier Mountain’s small-hill charm will bring new faces and crowds to Fairfield, Idaho.

Culture with Elevation

5850 Fest aims to blend sports, entertainment and culinary experiences during the FIS World

Cup at Sun Valley

WORDS BY JONATHAN MENTZER

PHOTO

COURTESY

5850 FESTIVAL

When Jenny Dupre and Brandon Kuvara caught wind that the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Finals were coming to Sun Valley, they were overcome with excitement and consumed with the call to be a part of this cultural happening.

After years of anticipation, the fusion of skiing, entertainment and cuisine is returning to the Bald Mountain slopes and Ketchum streets with the launch of 5850 Fest. This vibrant cultural event, organized by 5B Productions, will coincide with the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Finals in March 2025.

5850 Fest kicks off its inaugural celebration the entire week of March 20-27. The festival aims to celebrate Sun Valley’s ski heritage while establishing a foundation for future events in 2027 and 2029.

For the better part of a decade—or longer—there has been a beckoning for a ski and entertainment fusion that has finally been channeled and brought back to Bald Mountain and Ketchum.

The brains behind the event, Jenny Dupre and Brandon Kuvara, bring extensive experience and passion to the table. Dupre, known for

her work with the Sun Valley Film Festival and Sun Valley Symphony, partnered with Kuvara, owner of Whiskey’s on Main in Ketchum and ambassador to the U.S. Ski Team, to form 5B Productions. Their mission: to unite the community, elevate Sun Valley’s global profile, and support U.S. skiing initiatives.

“We’re bringing our passion and excitement to create something truly special for our town,” said Dupre. “It’s not just about 2025—it’s about building an infrastructure for years to come.”

In partnership with the International Ski Federation (FIS), Sun Valley Resort is hosting

the World Cup Finals, managing the races and the athletes and overseeing mountain logistics. Meanwhile, 5850 Fest ensures the celebration extends well beyond the slopes. “The fun doesn’t stop after the races,” added Kuvara. “We’re creating a fantastic party for the community and showcasing Sun Valley.”

The weeklong festival, which will be held across Forest Service Park, Main Street and Town Square, will feature live music, culinary experiences and public activations. Free events will dominate the programming, while VIP packages include exclusive access to sponsor

lounges, chef-driven dinners, and meet-andgreet opportunities with musical artists and celebrity chefs. The VIP packages are also in partnership with The Argyros Theater in Ketchum. High-profile figures from “Top Chef” and other culinary stars will headline the gastronomic lineup.

Beyond entertainment, 5850 Fest aims to make an impact. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Stifel U.S. Ski Team, which will support athletes’ preparation for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

‘‘We’re bringing our passion and excitement to create something truly special for our town… It’s not just about 2025— it’s about building an infrastructure for years to come.”

—JENNY DUPRE

It was essential to showcase Ketchum and highlight the area. With a robust summer and winter tourism industry, being a small business owner became one motivating factor for Kuvara.

“It’s about keeping these athletes and events on U.S. soil,” said Kuvara. “So, if Jenny and I can do one little piece of the puzzle and put on a good show, sign me up. It’s also about helping the development of our ski team. You know, having these athletes and events in the U.S. and not Europe is a positive for the U.S. Team and future Olympians.”

Kuvara and Dupre credit local support, including collaboration with the City of Ketchum and Sun Valley Resort, with bringing their vision to life. Having a partnership with Ketchum and a tight knit friendship with Sun Valley Resort and the U.S. Ski Team, 5B Productions still remains an independent entity focused on celebrating the community and creating unforgettable experiences.

The inaugural 5850 Fest promises to highlight Sun Valley’s charm, combining sports, entertainment, and culinary excellence while drawing global attention. Dupre noted, “The world is watching, and we’re ready to show them what makes Sun Valley special.”ï

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Ketchum and Sun Valley will be popping with excitement as the 5850 Fest fills the air with fun during the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Finals. Locations to check out will be Whiskey’s on Main, Forest Service Park, Main Street, Town Square and The Argyros Theater.

body&soul

Five Key Nutrients for Longevity

Tips on how to boost natural energy for a longer and healthier life

WORDS BY DR. KATE ERICKSON

As we age, we no longer have the benefits of our youth to carry us through to an active life. We need a little boost to help us along. Thankfully, there are natural ways to obtain these boosts for a healthy workout recovery, steady brain function and a robust immune system to battle those unforeseen toxins we’re constantly exposed to.

With the wealth of available health advice, sensible nutrition principles are often overshadowed by the latest diet trends. To simplify this information overload, let’s look at five key nutrients that boost longevity.

VITAMIN D

Did you know that Vitamin D is often considered a hormone rather than just a vitamin? Our bodies synthesize this nutrient after sun exposure. Adequate Vitamin D is essential for bone health, muscle contraction, nerve conduction and brain health.

Wild-caught salmon and sardines are wonderful sources of Vitamin D. Egg yolks and mushrooms are also good sources. Due to our northern climate, adding a supplement can help boost Vitamin D levels during winter.

OMEGA-3

If I had to choose just two nutrients to focus on for healthy aging, Vitamin D and Omega3 fatty acids would be the winners. Omega-3 fatty acids are heart-healthy fats found in foods such as salmon, sardines, avocados, olive oil, flaxseed and almonds.

Adequate omega-3 intake is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, macular degeneration, systemic inflammation, cognitive decline and more. Strive to eat wild-caught fish at least three times per week and consider adding a fish oil supplement.

PHOTO CREDITS

VITAMIN K

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for cardiovascular health, bone health and longevity. It has two forms: Vitamin K1 is obtained from leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach, and Vitamin K2 is obtained from fermented foods, egg yolks, chicken and butter.

Vitamin K2 is also synthesized by our friendly gut bacteria, which speaks to the importance of a healthy GI tract. Insufficient Vitamin K may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis—two critical longevity roadblocks.

MAGNESIUM

Magnesium is often overlooked when it comes to longevity. It is essential for DNA repair, mitigating oxidative stress and protecting DNA from damage. Deficiencies in this nutrient may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s dementia, type2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

Leafy greens, nuts, seeds, legumes and avocados are excellent dietary sources of magnesium. Unfortunately, the magnesium content in our foods has declined significantly in the past 100 years as our soils have become increasingly depleted, so consider adding a supplement if your diet is lacking.

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Getting a good source of Vitamin D, Omega-3, Vitamin K, Magnesium and Proteins through food such as fish, avocados, spinach, kale, nuts and grains is essential for a longer and healthier life.

FOOD AS MEDICINE :

Always strive for a food-first approach when it comes to nourishing your body.

Certain medications can cause nutrient deficiencies, including statins, acid-blocking medications, heart medications and more.

Supplements can be a great addition to a longevity-focused lifestyle, especially if laboratory testing shows you lack a particular nutrient.

Sad fact: Insurance rarely covers laboratory testing for Vitamin D and other nutrients, so if you’re interested in optimizing your health and nutrient status, you may need to pay out-of-pocket for these tests.

Hopefully, this gives you some simple guidelines to follow when meal planning. It’s often said that food is medicine, and this adage has a lot of merit when it comes to nutrition and longevity.

PROTEIN

Muscle mass is the currency of aging—thus, protein is a critical component of our diet. Beyond helping maintain muscle mass, protein contains essential amino acids that make hormones, digestive enzymes and neurotransmitters.

Athletes and those hoping to increase muscle mass should aim for one gram of protein per pound of ideal body weight, assuming your kidneys are healthy. Whenever possible, choose organic, free-range, grass-fed, whole-food sources to ensure you’re fueling your body with the best quality protein possible.

WHAT ABOUT PROTEIN POWDERS?

If you’re not getting enough protein through diet, consider adding a scoop of protein powder to your morning smoothie. I prefer organic bone broth protein. ï

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Lengthen Your Life with Quality Sleep

Research shows seven to eight hours of nightly rest promotes hormone health and brain function

WORDS BY DR. KATE ERICKSON

Sleep. It’s one of the things that we as humans share amongst ourselves no matter who we are, where we’re from or what we do. We all sleep, and it’s hugely beneficial, but not all of us take advantage of its advantageous qualities.

Many of us are all too familiar with how insufficient sleep weakens our immune system, but did you know that inadequate sleep also causes brain inflammation?

This is called neuroinflammation. It leads to a host of unwanted conditions, including anxiety, depression, cognitive decline and dementia, which is the last thing you want when aiming for a long and healthy life.

During sleep, our body and brain go into repair mode. At night, the brain’s glymphatic system cleans up metabolic waste and prepares us for the day ahead. Without this critical process, toxins like Amyloid-β can accumulate. Amyloid plaques build up in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease.

HOW ELSE DOES INADEQUATE SLEEP LEAD TO A SHORTENED LIFESPAN?

Too little sleep increases systemic inflammation, which wreaks havoc on the body. Several studies have shown that insufficient sleep leads to an increased risk of insulin resistance and type-2 diabetes.

Studies have also found that inadequate sleep increases the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. A meta-analysis of 17 studies published by Cappuccio and colleagues showed that sleeping less than seven hours per night increases the risk of all-cause mortality.

According to the American College of Cardiology, quality sleep can lengthen your life. Men with quality sleep tend to live an average of 4.7 years longer than men with poor quality sleep. This benefit also holds for women, increasing their lifespan by 2.4 years. Women tend to live longer than men at baseline, which may explain this slight difference.

SO, HOW MUCH SLEEP DO YOU NEED?

Strive for seven to eight hours of sleep. Some studies suggest that women may need more sleep than men to maintain adequate hormone health. It’s important to note that the goal is quality sleep. For example, if you have undiagnosed sleep apnea, you may oscillate in and out of the various stages of non-REM sleep and never reach restorative rest.

Undiagnosed sleep apnea further threatens longevity by increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, dementia and death.

WHAT ABOUT ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE AND SLEEP?

Unsurprisingly, inadequate sleep impacts athletic performance by increasing the risk of injury and impairing recovery. Our bodies mitigate inflammation while we sleep. If left unchecked, metabolic waste damages tissues and joints, increasing the risk of injury and possibly leading to arthritis.

PHOTO

THE POWER OF NAPPING :

When energy levels dive mid-afternoon, try a “power nap” instead of a coffee or sugary snack. The National Sleep Foundation discovered that a 40-minute nap enhances productivity by 34 percent! Now, some of the biggest corporations in the world (Zappos, Google, Facebook) have created nap rooms, sleeping nooks, or “nap pods” to facilitate this healthy habit. These rooms have individual napping “chambers” with built-in white noise or music and soothing notifications instead of alarms. Whether you are power napping at work or just snoozing at home, some benefits from these short rests include:

IMPROVEMENTS IN:

Mood, Alertness, Memory, Cognitive Function, Productivity, Physical Performance

SIGNIFICANT BOOSTS IN: Creativity, Health and Immunity

AND REDUCTIONS IN:

Stress and Fatigue

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST SABOTEUR OF SLEEP?

These days, it’s the blue light emitted from our screens. Blue light emulates mid-day sunlight, blocking melatonin production and tricking our brains into thinking it’s high noon.

So, if you have trouble sleeping and doomscrolling right before bed, work on cutting evening screen time. Without blue light exposure, the body takes two to three hours to produce enough melatonin to feel tired.

Those who struggle with insomnia can also try resetting their circadian rhythm by getting outside at sunrise for thirty minutes each morning. This simple activity profoundly affects your circadian rhythm and helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle for the next few days.

The takeaway is to strive for seven to eight hours of quality sleep, enjoy morning sunlight, and reduce screen time in the evening. Building these habits will support quality sleep and longevity. ï

6-Dimensional Fitness for Ageless Living

How you train inside is how you live outside!

WORDS BY BILL NURGE PHOTOS BY AMANDA NAGY

Let’s be honest: the thousands of people who live or vacation in Sun Valley do it for the love of recreating outside in nature, amongst the mountains, not because of the to-die-for chocolate brownie cake at the Konditorei bakery.

The numerous outdoor activities are boundless, but no matter how much you

exercise, you’ll eventually stare down the barrel of a severe age-old problem: you can’t have your cake and eat it, too.

The great news is if you train properly, you can have more cake, more fun, more energy, and higher levels of performance.

According to the latest research on aging and longevity, 6-Dimensions of Fitness are

consistently linked to health span and longevity. While your favorite mountain activities may check the box for 1 or 2 dimensions, they fall abundantly short of the others, leaving your body lacking in what it needs to function optimally.

Let’s dive into the “use ’em or lose ’em” 6 Dimensions of Fitness relating to health span and longevity.

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1. V02 MAX:

A recent study with 400,000 subjects shows that relative to the top 2.5% of individuals with the highest V02 (volume of oxygen consumed), the bottom 25% have a 400% greater all-cause mortality risk. Thrice weekly bouts of high-intensity intervals are the cornerstone for building a bigger cardiovascular engine. Pro Tip: The best modalities for redlining oxygen utilization are not legs-only sprinting but total-body exercises like rowing on slides and Nordic skiing.

2. FUNCTIONAL MUSCLE MASS & BONE DENSITY:

The average 80-year-old has 30-50% less muscle mass and significantly reduced bone density compared to the 20-year-old iteration. The best strategy to offset the age-related

diminution of bone density is a steady diet of total-body plyometrics, which includes jolting and twisting movements. Pro tip: Building better bones and muscles without getting injured is tricky. Avoid high-risk exercises like box jumps and kettlebell swings. Opt for lowrisk/high-reward exercises such as squat-row jumps and elastic split-squat jumps.

ATHLETIC POWER:

The ability to move quickly, deftly, and powerfully matters most in life and sports, not absolute “strength.” Teaching your body to move at different speeds and directions using different “tension” builds the requisite power aging bodies need for life and sports. Pro tip: Power = Force x Velocity. What’s missing from most training programs isn’t force; it’s speed; it’s learning how to proficiently accelerate

your body mass—or a golf club—using multidimensional athletic movements.

4. FUNCTIONAL MOBILITY:

Ideally, every repetition of every resistance training exercise is a “stretch,” so you’re improving muscle mobility and increasing the pliability of your connective tissue and joints.

Pro Tip: What you don’t move, eventually won’t move…work on mobility daily!

5. COORDINATION / BALANCE:

Train your dynamic balance and coordination “muscles” every session to minimize the risk of inadvertently falling and hurting yourself. As a rule, if you can close your eyes and properly perform an exercise, it’s not complicated enough to improve your vestibular system.

Pro Tip: Incorporate single-leg and bilateral balance exercises such as BOSU squats and slackline ball toss.

6. CORE DYNAMIC-STABILITY:

Back pain is a leading cause of morbidity and disability in the United States. Your core is likely too stable/stiff, too fatigable, and isn’t properly trained to decelerate the rotational movements that are part and parcel of virtually every move you make in life and sports!

Pro Tip: If you want a not-smart “stable” core—like a turtle—that doesn’t move well and “goes out” frequently, practice stiffening exercises like planks and poses. If you want an intelligent core that’s bulletproof from pain and capable of producing power for the functional movements that define our lives and sports, practice overloading total-body rotational movements. ï

Exercises Clockwise: Single-leg pull ups, single arm/leg step-ups, ski simulation exercise, rowing for VO2 max values.

ESCAPE TO THE SPA AT SUN VALLEY

A tranquil retreat in the heart of the valley. Enjoy a soothing massage, refreshing salon treatments, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. With exceptional amenities, it’s the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate, and feel your best.

favorite finds...

APRÈS BABE

310 Walnut Avenue, Ketchum — 208.913.0490

YES! Love to be wearing these yummy very happy sweats! Aprés Babe!!

A rainbow of extremely luxurious pom pom hats! The PERFECT gift or treat yourself to warmth and style.

Whether you are wearing these as a layering piece or all by themself, these playful tights hug your body oh so right!

We are in LOVE with these peeps!! Turn some heads while making turns and protect your eyes. Affordable, fun and flirty!!

Never lose your keys with these adorable rabbit key chains. Clip them to your bag for an extra punch of color and hop around town.

Cozy, warm and stylish, these luxurious throw blankets add a pop of color to any room decor.

The perfect stocking stuffer.....or treat yourself to briefs that gently hug and socks that never slide!

A tailored shirt that gets better with every wash! European cut to fit the athlete in your life! Yes please!

Eyewear that doesn’t break the bank! Protect your peeps in style!

The Celestial Knife combines elegant celestial designs with sharp functionality, making each piece a timeless treasure of luxury and refinement.

With its natural colors and ethereal lines, these rustic Onyx polished hurricanes light up beautifully with a candle.

This custom El Sol Pendant features a serene, face-carved white moonstone at the heart of a sun-shaped 18k yellow gold setting, accented by 24 twinkling diamonds. It’s the perfect piece for anyone who wants to light up the room more than they already do.

effortlessly adjust for a perfect fit.

Featuring a fantasy cut lapis, 18k yellow gold, and round diamonds, the Fantasia pendant is both stylish and elegant. And the gold Chain Bracelet and Necklace by Clioro features a stunning twotoned bracelet with round diamonds and a diamondaccented link.

Crafted from rare, high-vibration Fluorite, this bowl is more than just a decorative piece ... it brings a sense of elegance and refinement to any space.

Xpandable Emerald Ring by Picchiotti— featuring fine jewelry rings and bracelets that

The Cleopatra Ring features a rich square tourmaline set in 18k yellow gold, evoking the bold elegance of the iconic queen. Regal yet effortless, it’s a piece fit for everyday royalty.

favorite finds...

unforgettable gifts!

Brunello Cucinelli from head to toe, yes please! When only the very best will do! Discover elegance at its very best!

BARRY PETERSON JEWELERS

511 Sun Valley Road, Ketchum — 208.726.5202

Drape your neck with stunning precious beads and add timeless style to any outfit.

There are handbags and then there’s Brunello Cucinelli! Italian design combined with only the best leathers and suede. Awww!

Keep cozy warm all winter long! From cashmere sweaters and everyday staples to elegant dresses and jewelry, Panache is a one-stop shop for all the brands you love.

The best kind of ice! Diamond earrings that take you through the day and night!

When you really love someone, you offer them your heart.... yellow diamonds are a girl’s best friend.

Now those are the stud(s) I was looking for! Brilliant in every way!

Looking for the perfect gift? Money clips and writing tools that will last a lifetime at the tip of your fingers. One of a kind!

You will never see a more elegant knife! Kept safely around your neck, this remarkable piece is on the cutting edge of luxury!

was Pretty in Pink!! The perfect outfit for any holiday party or gathering. Delicious in every way!

Let’s horse around town in this fun, soft and timeless top. Paired with jeans or a cute skirt, you will turn some heads!

She

Looking for the perfect Idaho jacket? Take a twirl around town with this camel fringe jacket that screams fashion!

gearing up...

Looking to round up a fun night? This amazing shirt and perfect pair of jeans will holler good times!

The latest trend on colors, these down jackets are the perfect weight for layering . . . or, warm and comfortable as outerwear on warmer days.

Stylish neck gators—yes please!

Break trail and cut the wind in this eye-catching jacket designed to layer.

From head-to-toe Backwoods has the Nordic woman covered. The perfect combination or fashion and function come together with every accessory to match right down to the neck gator! Skate down the trail in fashion!

Rumpl down blankets are packable, durable and weatherproof—made for whatever travels await you!

Summer | 2025

Love, Planned Perfectly

Your Perfect Day, Our Passion

SUN VALLEY WEDDINGS HITS STANDS THIS SUMMER

Your Sun Valley or Mountain Wedding journey starts here. Watch for the next issue of WEDDINGS from Sun Valley Magazine for the tools to make it as stress free as possible. Filled with inspiration, resources, advice, tips and ideas, as well as a list of vendors for everything from caterers and hair stylists to makeup, florists and wedding locations and venues, Sun Valley WEDDINGS is the premier source for the modern bride looking for the inside scoop on planning the perfect mountain resort wedding.

LUXURY REDEFINED

ELLE ROSE

Rochelle Runge left her native Southern California in 1991, to open her very first store in the Ski Resort of Sun Valley, Idaho. Noticing the local community seemed to favor denim and fleece at the time, Rochelle instantly knew that she had a fresh and distinct perspective to offer. During a recent trip to Milan, Rochelle purchased a cashmere Loro Piana sweater for herself. Mesmerized by its beauty and exquisite softness – she immediately knew this would become her store’s hallmark brand. Nearly 30 years later Elle Rose of Sun Valley still offers one of the only Loro Piana Shop’s in the United States, along with an exclusive designer roster featuring the world’s top brands including Alexander McQueen, Valentino, The Row and Dolce & Gabbana.

In 2015, Rochelle hired the New York design firm Gensler, to help bring her dream in-store experience to life. Inspired by Sun Valley’s picturesque scenery –the flagship store is designed to bring the outside in, with oversized wrap-around windows, allowing for brilliant sunlight and a snow globe affect during winter.

‘‘Dressing for the occasion is the most respectful form of gratitude.”

—ROCHELLE RUNGE, PRESIDENT/OWNER

Today, Rochelle is proud to be the President of Elle Rose and to be at the helm of a female-founded, and female-run and operated, business known as an industry leading retailer with a discerning global clientele. When not traveling the globe in search of the world’s greatest brands or curating looks for her clients, you’ll most likely find Rochelle on the Sun Valley ski slopes.

641 Sun Valley Rd, Ketchum, ID 83340 | 208.726.8871 | ellerosesv.com

E D D I N G S

From the first “I Do” to the last detail celebrating your special event, Sun Valley Magazine’s WEDDINGS is your perfect wedding planning resource. Look for it on shelves and on stands this Summer 2025!

Cool Finds

Real Wedding Stories

Get This Look

The Getaway

Meet the Pros

It’s In the Details

Planning Resources.

Painting by Judy Stoltzfus

getoutthere

Sun Valley’s Forgotten Path

How a Last-Minute Decision Sparked Idaho’s Backcountry Skiing Legacy

WORDS BY JONATHAN MENTZER

Today, it’s nearly impossible to think of Sun Valley without conjuring up images of powder-covered trails, towering snowy peaks and chairlifts gliding silently into the crisp mountain air. But when Averell Harriman, the ambitious railroad magnate, began crafting his vision for “America’s First Destination Ski Resort” in the 1930s, he never intended for his dream to

include alpine touring.

Yet, as the story goes, a last-minute decision by Harriman altered the trajectory of skiing in Idaho, igniting a backcountry movement that would shape Sun Valley’s identity in ways he never anticipated.

Harriman’s late decision to build the Pioneer Cabin and the Saw Mill Hut laid the foundation for a culture of backcountry skiing

that would flourish decades later. Though the Saw Mill Hut has since vanished, these rustic lodges became a refuge for mountain wanderers, pioneers of a guiding culture that would eventually draw skiers from far and wide, searching for an experience that couldn’t be found within resort boundaries.

Harriman saw potential in offering something distinct: a more rugged, off-thebeaten-path experience that would attract a different kind of skier. To bring this vision to life, he turned to Florian Haemmerle, a man who embodied the spirit of the mountains. Florian Haemmerle, a former German national ski champion and seasoned coach, was no stranger to mountain life. Like many immigrants chasing a new life, he arrived in America through Ellis Island in the

1920s. After training skiers across Europe and coaching at Dartmouth University, Haemmerle felt a pull toward the West, where untamed landscapes promised freedom and adventure. In 1938, drawn by the wild promise of Sun Valley, Haemmerle became the head of the newly established Alpine Touring School and the steward of Pioneer Cabin.

To those who met him, Haemmerle was more than a guide; he was a renegade spirit. “My dad was a bit of a rebel,” said his son Fritz Haemmerle, former mayor of Hailey, Idaho, in a 2017 interview. “He wasn’t into the Sun Valley scene. He felt more comfortable in the mountains.” Haemmerle’s approach to skiing was deeply personal. He saw it not as a sport for the crowd-lined slopes but as a solitary pursuit, a journey of discovery that led skiers

Clockwise from Top: Pioneer Cabin’s signature quote, “The Higher You Get, The Higher You Get,” reminds us to keep striving as we all have greatness within us.

A broad view of the Pioneer Mountain Range. Hikers trek up during the 1930s.

Florian Haemmerle takes a break to paint his favorite vistas.

‘‘My dad was a bit of a rebel. He wasn’t into the Sun Valley scene. He felt more comfortable in the mountains.”

— F RITZ HAEMMERLE, ON HIS DAD, FLORIAN HAEMMERLER

away from the polished trails of the resort and into the quiet majesty of Sun Valley’s wilderness. His unique perspective drew skiers who shared his desire for freedom and wanted more than another day on the resort’s busy slopes.

Under Haemmerle’s guidance, a few skiers embraced alpine touring, venturing into the untracked snow beyond the structured resort lines. This group of backcountry enthusiasts found solace in the secluded runs and untouched powder, savoring an experience far removed from the bustling glamour of Sun Valley’s main lodge. For a brief, shining period, the Alpine Touring School flourished, becoming a refuge for skiers seeking the raw beauty of the mountains.

But just as Haemmerle’s vision began taking root, history intervened. In 1942, as World War II engulfed the world, Sun Valley’s alpine touring program abruptly ended. Many of the resort’s ski instructors and staff were called into service, including Haemmerle, who had served in the renowned 10th Mountain Division. The resort itself shut down, and the

once-thriving Alpine Touring School faded into memory. When Sun Valley reopened its doors in 1946, the world had changed, and alpine touring didn’t return. Pioneer Cabin lay dormant, waiting for another generation to rediscover its potential.

For decades, Sun Valley’s backcountry culture was nearly forgotten as skiers flocked to the convenience of chairlifts and the polished slopes of Bald Mountain. Yet, the spirit of alpine touring refused to die. Haemmerle’s rebellious legacy lived on, and in the 1970s and 80s, a new wave of skiers—those who felt the same pull toward untouched terrain—began to emerge in Idaho. They saw the mountains not as a backdrop for leisure but as a wilderness to be explored and conquered. Among these early trailblazers was Kirk Bachman, a local who embraced the challenge and mystery of backcountry skiing in Sun Valley’s rugged terrain.

To some, these daring skiers might have seemed like reckless thrill-seekers or “crazy mountain men.” But to locals, they represented

The cabin has a tiny stove for warmth and cooking and lots of knick knacks and treasures that other hikers have left behind.

If you are the first to stake your claim, you can spend the night in Pioneer Cabin, but bring blankets as it gets chilly at night!

something more: a return to the true spirit of skiing, a pursuit of freedom, solitude, and unspoiled nature. They were Idaho skiers in their purest form, unafraid of harsh weather or steep terrain, determined to carve their own paths through Sun Valley’s uncharted nooks and crannies.

Today, Sun Valley’s backcountry culture is alive and thriving, infused with the spirit of those early pioneers. Skiers from all over are drawn to the rugged hillsides, each one hoping to find a piece of the untouched wilderness that Haemmerle and his followers cherished. Every skier who breaks trail in those remote hills carries a piece of Haemmerle’s legacy, an echo of the rebel who wasn’t interested in glamorous resorts or crowded slopes. They seek the same solitude, freedom, and thrill of discovery he once offered to a handful of daring skiers at Pioneer Cabin.

Thanks to Averell Harriman’s vision and Florian Haemmerle’s bold spirit, Sun Valley’s backcountry remains a testament to those who dare to go beyond. ï

Magical Frozen Fun A Guide to Ice Fishing

WORDS BY SARAH LINVILLE

Located 36 miles south of Sun Valley and straddling the Blaine and Camas County lines, Magic Reservoir, fed by the Big Wood River, sprawls over 3,740 acres. The expansive shorelines, covered with sagebrush and antelope bitterroot, have only been semi-developed since the Magic Dam was installed in 1910. Recreators have returned time and time again to this area where the mountains meet the high desert to enjoy some of Southern Idaho’s best camping, boating, hunting and fishing. Anglers can be seen casting from the shore and venturing out in small boats or even inflatable tubes to access the deeper waters during the warmer months. When winter arrives and the reservoir freezes over, the most intrepid amongst us will stride out onto the ice, bundled head to toe, cut out a chunk of ice and try to hook a decent-

sized trout or two. Magic Reservoir is open year-round and may be the place to discover a new hobby or family tradition this winter.

Ice fishing has existed as a survival skill for 2,000 years, originating from pretty much anywhere there was ice. Before rods and reels, people used spears and bait made from shiny materials like ivory. Today, ice fishing is usually more of a recreational activity than a survival skill, and believe it or not, it can be quite cozy.

First, safety. Typically speaking, the ice must be at least three to four inches thick to support a single person. A minimum of 12 inches of thickness is mandatory to drive an ATV or snow machine on the ice. Driving cars or trucks on the ice is never safe. Ice conditions can change from day to day. Drill several holes as you go, using a manual or mechanized auger to measure thickness. Be aware that places near

Ice fishing can give people a different perspective of fishing and a break from the ski lines.

and animals

inlets, outlets and structures like docks can create weak ice. Never assume that conditions are safe based on the time of year.

Every winter season is different. During the 2023/24 winter, a woman driving a snowmobile only 50 yards from shore on Magic Reservoir fell through the ice. Thankfully, she was saved, but she was hospitalized for hypothermia, according to a report by the Idaho Mountain Express.

Clockwise: Ice fishing poles are much shorter than regular poles, ranging from 24 to 36 inches. Bringing the family is important to keep the fun going on the ice. Don’t forget your slush spoon to keep the ice and snow out of the fishing holes.

For the most part, ice-fishing is a safe, relatively easy, and inexpensive experience, depending on how high-tech the gear is. As mentioned before, a mandatory piece of equipment is an ice auger, which is essentially a massive drill. A manual auger can be purchased for less than $100, but for more money and less elbow grease, there are gas and electric-powered options.

Rods used in ice fishing are shorter and lighter than standard rods, between 24 and 36 inches, to fit and manage tight spaces like a warming hut, skid house or tent. Other basic equipment includes a seat to keep your rear off the ice and a slotted ladle or “slush spoon’ to keep the holes free of ice. This type of ice fishing is known as visual fishing rules or VFR. Anglers commonly use IFR or instrumental fishing rules, meaning they use live scopes or fish finders. These tools use sound waves to determine water depth and, of course, to find the fish.

To satisfy curiosity or experience a great day outside without much hassle, Sun Valley visitors and residents can now hire a guide to take them out on the ice. Last winter, Sun Valley Outfitters, whose fly shop is in downtown Ketchum, became the Valley’s only licensed ice-fishing outfitter on the Magic

RULES ON THE ICE

Ice fishing rules are according to Idaho Fish and Game

Every angler needs to obtain a fishing license. They can be purchased online at Go Outdoors Idaho. There’s even an app!

Anglers can only fish up to five poles or lines at a time.

Fishing is allowed through a hole no larger than 10 inches in diameter.

The statewide trout limit is six per angler per day.

Anglers who leave an ice fishing structure overnight must attach the owner’s name, telephone number and address on two sides of the structure.

Reservoir. Mark Belanger has been a fishing and big-game hunting guide in the area for 10 years. Mark grew up fishing in Northern Minnesota, so when it comes to ice fishing, he knows what he’s talking about.

“Ice fishing can be a good break from skiing. It’s family-oriented, relaxing, chill and fun,” Mark said, “People who are new to ice fishing that I take out want to go back over and over again.”

Sun Valley Outfitters will provide all the gear and answer any questions to help prepare their clients for a comfortable day out.

According to the experts, the best time of winter to get out on the ice can vary, but usually, the ice gets thick enough to drag a sled out just before Christmastime. When the ice thickness reaches a foot or more (later in the winter), a snowmobile could potentially haul out a grill, a cooler and a thermos of hot chocolate (or Hot Toddies).

So, as temperatures drop and the ice thickens, why not take a break from the slopes and enjoy a unique winter pastime that connects with nature in a new way? It may become an avenue that introduces you to a brand-new community. You may even start a tradition that will be passed down in your family for Winters to come. ï

there // calendar

2024-2025 WINTER EVENTS

Winter is the marquee season in the Wood River Valley. It’s what brings us here. From world-class alpine skiing to adventurous and scenic Nordic skiing to the majestic Holiday season in the mountains, portraits dream of winter in the Wood River Valley. However, besides the winter outdoor activities, this place we call home also features a wide array of art, music, culture, and great food. There are countless cultural events to attend, everything from exceptional music to stand-up comedy to the 2024 FIS World Cup.

Here is an abbreviated calendar of events for the winter and beyond.

Sun Valley Suns Hockey

Sun Valley’s Senior “A” Elite men’s hockey team is entering its 50th season with a 753-311-29 cumulative record in its 1,093 games. The 2024-25 Suns have a 26-game regular-season schedule—20 games at home and six away—plus one holiday exhibition game. Home games at Hailey’s Campion Ice House in bold type. svsunshockey.com

DECEMBER

SUN VALLEY RESORT’S WINTER

WONDERLAND

Dec. 7-31

All December, Sun Valley Resort becomes a Winter Wonderland, brimming with holiday magic. Enjoy the harmonious voices of the Sun Valley Carolers as they wander through the European-style Holiday Market and marvel at the sparkling Christmas Tree lighting. On Christmas Eve, watch the torchlight procession down Dollar Mountain and the dazzling fireworks that ring on Christmas Day. Capture memories with Santa, enjoy holiday films at the Opera House, and embrace festive activities like cookie decorating and shopping for a cause. From tree lightings to New Year’s Eve night skiing, Sun Valley offers timeless holiday cheer for all. sunvalley.com.

STAND-UP COMEDY SERIES

Dec. 13

Get ready to laugh at the Sun Valley Opera

House during six unforgettable stand-up comedy nights! Each evening spotlights a different world-class comedian, bringing their unique flair to the stage. While the performers generally steer clear of excessive vulgarity and political humor, it is advised that families are aware that some adult language and content may be present. Don’t miss this perfect blend of humor, talent, and entertainment. Enjoy a week full of chuckles, surprises, and good vibes—it’s comedy done right! Comedian John Ziegler opens the winter on December 13. sunvalley.com.

SVSEF 48TH ANNUAL WILD GAME DINNER

Dec. 13

Join the 48th Annual Wild Game Dinner, a tradition supporting the Sun Valley Ski Education Fund (SVSEF). For nearly half a century, the community has gathered to celebrate SVSEF’s impact on Wood River Valley youth and to fund its Athlete Financial Aid Program. Proceeds go directly toward providing over $500,000 annually in financial aid for athletes of all ages. This year’s ticket includes a Pre-Game cocktail reception and a gourmet feast by acclaimed chefs Britt Rescigno and Kinsey Loedler of the upcoming Fiamma! restaurant. Join us to

support athletes and inspire future mountain stewards! svsef.org.

SUN VALLEY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

Dec. 14

Kick off the holiday season at Sun Valley Village’s Tree Lighting Celebration on December 14! Enjoy live holiday music, an enchanting ice carving show at 4 p.m., a Santa’s visit, free cookies, cocoa, and an outdoor bar. Festivities start at 5:30 p.m., with the tree lighting at 6:00 p.m. No registration is needed—don’t miss it! sunvalley.com.

SUN VALLEY HOLIDAY MARKET

Dec. 14-15

Celebrate the season at the 8th annual Europeanstyle holiday market, brimming with locally crafted artisan goods, unique gifts, holiday wreaths, and delightful treats. Enjoy festive cheer as Colla Voce carols through the Village on Saturday, December 14, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Explore an array of vendors, including Bug Bowls Custom Wood Works, Five Bees Honey, Hen & Hare, Lua Skincare, and many more. Mark your calendar: December 14 (11 a.m. – 7 p.m.) and December 15 (11 a.m. – 4 p.m.). No registration is required—come and enjoy the magic! sunvalley.com.

WOOD RIVER ORCHESTRA WINTER CONCERT

Dec. 15

Join us for an afternoon of holiday cheer on December 15th at the Argyros Performing Arts Center in Ketchum! Enjoy a concert with festive favorites and browse our annual silent auction featuring unique artistic treasures. Doors open at 3 P.M. for the auction, with the concert beginning at 4 p.m. General admission is free, but seat reservations are required—visit www.theargyros. org to secure yours. Upgrade your experience with cabaret tables for four at $250, offering an up-close musical view. theargyros.org.

BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA CHRISTMAS SHOW

Dec. 17

Get ready for an unforgettable holiday experience with The Blind Boys Christmas Show! This performance blends beloved holiday standards with songs from their Grammywinning Go Tell It On The Mountain album and the lively Talkin’ Christmas collection. The legendary gospel group, the Blind Boys of Alabama, will have the audience singing and clapping along, spreading the season’s joy with their soulful sound. theargyros.org.

LET IT SNOW: A JAZZ

HOLIDAY CONCERT

Dec. 19-20

Celebrate the season with It’s a Jazz Christmas! at the historic Sun Valley Opera House, featuring FAUNA, the innovative trio from Los Angeles. Dominic Melendrez (bass/vocals), Sam Rossi (drums) and Abe Luedtke (keys) will enchant you with fresh jazz renditions of holiday classics like “Silent Night” and “Jingle Bells.” Experience the nostalgic charm of A Charlie Brown Christmas with FAUNA’s unique sound and heartfelt musicianship. Join us on December 19th & 20th at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.). Tickets: $30; registration required. sunvalley.com.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Dec. 20-24

Experience the magic of the holidays with Laughing Stock Theater’s 13th annual presentation of A Christmas Carol. This Charles Dickens classic comes alive with

music, humor, song, and just the right touch of spooky suspense. Adapted by Patsy Wygle and Keith Moore, this production boasts a vibrant mix of professional and local actors, with children adding extra charm. Immerse yourself in the timeless tale that embodies the true spirit of Christmas. Perfect for all ages, don’t miss this festive tradition. Nightly shows start at 7 p.m.—come and share the holiday cheer! theargyros.org.

CHRISTMAS EVE ICE SHOW AND TORCHLIGHT PARADE & FIREWORKS

Dec. 24

Experience the magic of Christmas Eve at the Sun Valley Lodge Terrace! Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. with the Sun Valley Carolers performing holiday favorites, followed by a captivating Christmas-themed ice show. Enjoy complimentary cookies and cocoa as you soak in the holiday spirit. Bleacher seating opens at 3 p.m.—no early reservations allowed. The night culminates with the annual Torchlight Parade on Dollar Mountain, with dazzling fireworks. Don’t miss this enchanting evening of music, ice, and light! No registration is required. sunvalley.com.

CHARLIE WORSHAM WITH AXEL DIEHL

Dec. 27-28

Experience Charlie Worsham’s Compadres, where Nashville’s finest rally behind this talented artist’s high-value music. Join this exclusive 21+ event with doors at 7:30 p.m. VIPs enjoy seated tickets, a band meet-andgreet, and a pre-show party with hosted Tito’s cocktails. Standing room only otherwise. theargyros.org.

NEW YEAR’S EVE NIGHT SKIING

Dec. 31

Families, get ready for an unforgettable night on the slopes! Join us at Dollar Mountain on December 31 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. for moonlit skiing on Poverty Flats, live music under the stars, and a spectacular fireworks show at 9:00 p.m. Enjoy delicious food and drinks at Carol’s Dollar Mountain Lodge. Season passes are not valid; tickets are on sale soon! sunvalley.com.

NEW YEAR’S EVE SNOW BALL

Dec. 31

Ring in the New Year with elegance at our glamorous “Snow Ball” Party! Dress to impress and enter a night of sparkle, bubbles, and bites as we say goodbye to 2024 and 2025. Enjoy complimentary champagne from 9:00 to 10:00 p.m. and delectable bites. Celebrate with a midnight toast to new beginnings and dance the night away in an atmosphere of magic and joy. Join us on December 31 from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tickets required—don’t miss this chance to sparkle into the New Year! sunvalley.com.

ABOVE: The Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show will bring some soul to the Wood River Valley. BELOW: The Sun Valley Holiday Market will feature local artisans and merchants selling locally made and sourced Holiday goods at Sun Valley Resort.

THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA SUN VALLEY HOLIDAY MARKET

JANUARY

MATT KEARNEY: THE ACOUSTIC TRIO TOUR

Jan. 11

Mat Kearney, the acclaimed multi-platinum songwriter and producer, is back with his latest album, January Flower. Known for his electrifying performances on significant shows, he has captured hearts and earned accolades from USA Today and Billboard. Over his impressive career, Kearney has released five studio albums, topped iTunes charts, and clocked over 2.5 billion global streams. His new work, crafted in the serene landscapes of Joshua Tree, marks a profound return to the joy of songwriting. Join him on January 11, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. for an unforgettable evening! theargyros.org.

17TH ANNUAL IDAHO POND HOCKEY CLASSIC

Jan. 18-19

The competition happens on January 18 and 19 at Christina Potters Ice Rink in Atkinson Park. All teams are guaranteed three games. Players must be 18 or older, and eight players per team for 4-on-4 play. Registration is $100 per team. ketchumidaho.org

ANIA & SOPHIE DRUML

Jan. 24

Join us for an unforgettable evening of classical music with the talented Druml sisters, Ania and Sophie, who are visiting from Vienna! Experience a dynamic duo recital featuring piano, cello, and violin in diverse combinations. With their exceptional artistry and deep musical spirit, this performance promises a rich tapestry of emotion. Don’t miss this inspiring musical journey! theargyros.org.

TYLER HUBBARD & FRIENDS

Jan. 25

Tyler Hubbard & Friends are introducing a beloved Nashville tradition to Ketchum for the first time. Join Tyler and notable Country Music songwriters for an intimate exploration of the songwriting process, featuring performances of today’s biggest hits. With an impressive track record, Tyler Hubbard has penned 18 #1 songs and boasts 22 #1 records, both as part of Florida Georgia Line and as a solo artist. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the magic behind the music firsthand! theargyros.org.

MARCUS KING FEAT. DREW SMITHERS

Jan. 28

Experience the raw spirit of Marcus King, a fourth-generation Greenville, South Carolina musician whose haunting melodies confront heartache, addiction, and mental health. With

a voice that resonates with the weight of past regrets, he began playing guitar at just eight, inspired by family legacy. Touring relentlessly as “The Marcus King Band,” he honed his craft before collaborating with Dan Auerbach to release his acclaimed solo debut, El Dorado, earning a GRAMMY® nomination. Catch him as he shares the stage with legends and captivates audiences nationwide. theargyros.org.

SUN VALLEY FOOD & WINE CELEBRATION

Jan. 28-Feb. 2

Prepare for a mouthwatering extravaganza as the Sun Valley Culinary Institute proudly presents the Sun Valley Food & Wine Celebration 2025! This year’s event promises an exceptional lineup of James Beard award-winning chefs, Food Network stars, and up-and-coming culinary talents. Set against the stunning backdrop of Sun Valley, this six-day festival invites food lovers to indulge in unforgettable gourmet experiences. sunvalleyculinary.org.

BOULDER MTN TOUR

Jan. 30-Feb. 1

Get ready for the 52nd annual Zions Bank Boulder Mountain Tour on February 1, 2025! This premier cross-country race occurs on the historic Harriman Trail in the stunning Sawtooth National Forest. Choose between the 34-kilometer Full Boulder or the 15-kilometer Charley Course Half Boulder, where World Cup-caliber athletes rub shoulders with enthusiastic locals. All ages can join in, with racers divided into seven waves by skill level, including Elite Men and Women. This year’s in-person race is limited to 800 skiers for the Full Boulder and 200 for the Half, so don’t miss out! bouldermountaintour.com.

ABOVE: The Christmas Eve Ice Show at Sun Valley Resort is a staple of excitement and tradition as the world’s best figure skaters give an audience a gracious show.

CHRISTMAS EVE ICE SHOW

BOULDER MOUNTAIN TOUR

A DOLL’S HOUSE, PART 2

Feb. 7-22

Experience a bold continuation of Ibsen’s classic with A Doll’s House, Part 2, from February 7-22 at the Liberty Theater in Hailey. Directed by David Janeski, this captivating play sees Nora return after 15 years to confront her past, challenging societal norms and exploring the complexities of marriage and gender. libertytheatrecompany.org.

MAEVE GILCHRIST

Feb. 14

Hailed as a “phenomenal harp player” with an unparalleled sound, Maeve Gilchrist elevates the traditional Celtic harp to innovative realms. As a dynamic bandleader and composer, she tours the globe. She collaborates with renowned artists like Yo-Yo Ma and Esperanza Spalding, pushing her instrument into thrilling new musical territories with the renowned Silkroad Ensemble. theargyros.org.

SHARE YOUR HEART BALL

Feb. 15

Camp Rainbow Gold invites you to the Annual Share Your Heart Ball, a heartfelt event dedicated to uplifting Idaho’s children battling cancer and their families. Your attendance and support can transform lives, bringing the joy of camp to those who dream of it. camprainbowgold.org.

THE CHRONICLES OF SHERLOCK HOLMES

& DR. WATSON

Feb. 17

Join ISF’s Idaho Theater for Youth at the Liberty

Theater in Hailey on February 17 at 6:30 PM for “The Chronicles of Sherlock Holmes & Dr. Watson.” Amidst the fog of 19th-century London, watch as the legendary duo tackles their most intriguing mystery yet. “Elementary, my dear Watson!” awaits! libertytheatrecompany.org.

SV MUSIC FESTIVAL WINTER SEASON

March 3-8

Join the Sun Valley Music Festival this winter for free concerts! Reservations are required (limited to four seats per household). Celebrate 40 years of inspiring a love for classical music! theargyros.org.

5850 FEST

March 20-27

5B Productions proudly unveils 5850 Fest, an unparalleled celebration of the World Cup Finals. Featuring top-tier musical performances, exquisite food and drink experiences, and dynamic sponsored activations, this event has something for everyone. With its innovative mix of free, openaccess festivities and exclusive VIP perks, 5850 Fest promises to spotlight Sun Valley as the ultimate destination for excitement and entertainment. 5850fest.com

AUDI FIS SKI WORLD CUP FINALS

March 22-27

The biggest event of the year comes in the form of the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Finals when the world’s best skiers from all over the globe ski the Warm Springs side of Bald Mountain. The five-day event starts with the Men’s and Women’s Downhill (March 22), followed by

LEFT: Back for another year, the Share Your Heart Ball continues to give and transform lives in the process. RIGHT: Sun Valley is not just for skiers, but is becoming a culinary haven of epic proportions as the Sun Valley Food & Wine Celebration makes its way to Idaho.

Men’s and Women’s Super G (March 23), Women’s Giant Slalom (March 25), Men’s Giant Slalom (March 26) and culminates with the Men’s and Women’s Slalom (March 27). Join the skiing and the parties with this once-in-alifetime event. sunvalley.com

TWELFTH NIGHT

April 4

Join ISF’s Shakespearience for Twelfth Night at the Liberty Theater in Hailey on April 4th at 6:30 p.m. This delightful comedy features shipwrecks, disguises, and a love triangle, showcasing Orsino’s heartfelt pursuit of Olivia amidst mistaken identities and clever antics. Don’t miss this timeless Shakespearean adventure! libertytheatrecompany.org.

24-HOUR THEATRE FESTIVAL

April 6

Guess what? The moment you’ve all been waiting for is crashing back onto the scene like a glitter-bombed disco ball! Get ready to unleash your inner theater unicorn as we whip up a brand-spanking-new play and perform it in just 24 hours! So, grab your capes and costumes because it will be a whirlwind of fun, frenzy, and fabulousness! libertytheatrecompany.org.

The Argyros Presents: 2025 Winter Season

The Argyros is pleased to present a distinguished lineup of artists this season. Audiences will be captivated by intimate performances across a diverse range of musical genres. The season commences with acclaimed singer-songwriter Mat Kearney, followed by a captivating duo recital featuring the Druml Sisters. Winter welcomes the country stylings of Tyler Hubbard & Friends, and the soulful energy of Marcus King. Concluding the season, audiences will be enchanted by the exceptional harp music of Maeve Gilchrist. The Argyros invites you to experience these remarkable performances and more.

Mat

January 5 January 11 January 24

The Argyros Songwriters Series feat. Marcus King An Evening of Music and Romance Tyler Hubbard & Friends presented with RJK Entertainment Maeve Gilchrist January 25 January 28 February 14

Marcus Eaton

Kearney Druml Sisters

World Class

The FIS World Cup Finals showcases Sun Valley’s Bald Mountain as the steepest on the circuit

WORDS BY JAKE MOE

The World Cup Finals are coming to Sun Valley in March, and it is a really big deal!

After all, the last time the World Cup was hosted in Sun Valley was 50 years ago. The big-name skiers at that event have become legends of the sport of skiing: Ingemar Stenmark, Annemarie Moser-Pröll, Cindy Nelson, Gustav Thöni”and a host of other ski champions.

The course for the races that Sun Valley Company has been feverishly working on for over a year will be historical in nature. Baldy will provide the steepest downhill on the World Cup circuit. In all the downhill courses in the World, racecourses have flat areas to provide a ‘wax race’ dynamic. However, on Baldy there are absolutely no flat sections. As

NBC ski announcer Steve Porino says, “This course has no letup…it will be a 100% grind from top to bottom.”

Due to the challenging course and the historical significance of the Sun Valley Resort, Perino claims that this will be a true test of the Valley’s ‘Ski Character.’

“Baldy has an amazing Ski Race Heritage,” says Porino. “Everywhere you turn, you can truly feel the ski racing vibe on the mountain, in town and especially in its history. With the Harriman Cup, the Diamond Sun Race off the top and with today’s Sun Valley Ski Academy success!”

Take a look at this chart of World Cup Courses, and you can

It’s a long, grueling season and anything can happen, but as the World Cup comes to Sun Valley (March 2025), be sure to keep a watchful eye on these top contenders: Bryce Bennett, Ryan Cochran-Siegle, Tommy Ford, Jared Goldberg and River Radamus in the men’s division; and Mikaela Shiffrin , AJ Hurt, Breezy Johnson, Lauren Macuga, Paula Moltzan, Nina O’Brien, Jacqueline Wiles and Isabella Wright in the women’s division.

clearly see that on the Baldy Course, the 36% pitch will get the hearts pumping amongst the racers and provide a thrilling experience for the spectators (See Chart).

Porino says, “We locals can take great pride in the fact that we ski this intimidating World Cup Course every day all season long! Several top-tobottom non-stops in the morning ski session with a follow-up chat with other skiers at Apples [Bar & Grill]…and you are about as dialed in as any experience on the World Cup circuit!”

It’s funny, as a broadcaster for the World Cup, everyone thinks I know it all, and I tell everyone that I learn most of what I know about racing and race culture by being on the Warm Springs hill and hanging out around town!”

“Remember,” Porino concludes. “This World Cup is a massive test for not only Baldy but the entire area. Will we live up to our age-old opinion of ourselves as being the best of the best in terrain, and will the town show up in force with thousands of cowbells to make this event loud and

VENUE L ENGTH V ERTICAL

THE STIFEL SUN VALLEY FINALS SCHEDULE OF RACE EVENTS:

March 22- men’s and women’s downhill

March 23- men’s and women’s super-G

March 24- off day, no race events

March 25- women’s giant slalom

March 26- men’s giant slalom

March 27- men’s and women’s slalom

‘‘

Baldy has an amazing Ski Race Heritage…Everywhere you turn, you can truly feel the ski racing vibe on the mountain, in town and especially in its history.”

—STEVE PORINO

proud? That will be what we look at after the event is over and whether we are thought of as being one of the best events in the minds of the racers and fans in advance of the next World Cup in a couple of years!”

With this amazing event coming to our backyard, how do we best take advantage of the experience? For that, I turned to an expert. Kyle Watson has led his ADL Tours (Alp du Lakemont) to major World Cup Races in Europe for years. In Europe, the racecourses are set up so you can ski down next to the course and watch from various vantage points on a downhill run, the jumps, the tight corner turns and the inevitable ‘crash corners.’

“For the Baldy downhill course, it will be set up just like in Europe,” according to Watson. “Which means you can start your viewing at the Race Shack on top and work your way down the course as each racer peels off the top one by one. For the slalom and giant slalom specifically, it is fantastic to be in the stands with all your noise makers and watch the descent practically from top to bottom with the timing board in full display to see how each competitor is doing. You will be in the middle of a giant crowd, and the excitement and vibe are definitely not to be missed!”

I love the fact that Sun Valley has this event in late March when the weather should be just perfect when it’s blue bird, bright sunshine, white snow and tons of folks ready to party! The bar scene with all the Europeans in attendance will create an atmosphere that is unmatched anytime in the Valley. This is the time to barhop to the max around Ketchum, Sun Valley and on the Mountain. And the different race teams are always happy to talk to the fans; just buy them a drink or two, and you get insider information on the World Cup circuit. If you are adventurous, find out where all the teams are staying. In Europe, they have an official team race headquarters, and fans are welcome to stop by and have a drink and say ‘hi.’ Hopefully, the same program exists in Sun Valley.”

Watson reminds everyone, “Bring your bota bags, flags, cowbells, and outrageous ski outfits and enjoy the show—it is going to be huge!”

In two short years, the World Cup Finals will return to Baldy, and it is incumbent upon all the residents of the Wood River Valley to show the thousands of visitors our A-Game. Sun Valley needs to be absolutely rocking for the Ski World!

Hold On Tight

First-Ever Stifel Sun Valley Finals Has the Top Skiers from Around the World Vying for Title

WORDS BY JONATHAN MENTZER & CRISTY SELLAS

The alpine skiing world is set to witness an exciting chapter in its history as Sun Valley hosts the first-ever Stifel Sun Valley Finals at the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Finals from March 22 to 27, 2025. This prestigious event will feature the world’s top 25 male and female athletes competing in slalom, giant slalom, super-G, and downhill disciplines, promising a week of thrilling action on the slopes.

Sun Valley, steeped in skiing tradition, is no stranger to hosting highprofile competitions. Over the years, it has served as the stage for events like the revered Harriman Cup and the U.S. Alpine Championships, which it recently hosted back-to-back.

“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,” said Pete Sonntag, Sun Valley Resort GM and VP. “We’re proud of our mountain and believe it will provide a great test of the world’s greatest skiers, but we’re even more proud of our community and the way this small western town can rally around an event of this caliber. We’re thrilled for athletes, families, and travelers worldwide to come to experience the best of Sun Valley.”

Paying homage to its roots in Union Pacific’s legacy, Sun Valley Resort has aptly named its racecourse “Challenger.” A title inspired by

KEY RACE POINTS

Downhill skiers train extremely hard, engaging in rigorous physical conditioning that focuses on building explosive strength, agility, core stability, and endurance. This often includes intense strength training sessions, plyometrics, and on-snow practice on varied terrains. Due to the demanding nature of the sport, downhill skiers must also manage the risk of injuries. Essentially, competing at the elite level requires a high level of dedication and physical fitness.

In race conditions, the FIS World Cup downhill slopes are not doable for average skiers or advanced skiers. Typically, their surface shines in pure ice instead of snow, and losing your edge means you’re up for a long, terrifyingly swift slide into the safety nets.

BY THE NUMBERS

161.9 | 100.6

KILOMETERS PER HOUR MILES PER HOUR

Speeds reached on the downhill event, the fastest and longest race in the FIS World Cup, while navigating steep, long-radius turns.

255.5 | 158.76

KILOMETERS PER HOUR MILES PER HOUR

The fastest speed ever recorded for downhill skiing, set by Simon Billy of France on March 22, 2023, during the Speed Masters 2023 event in Vars, France.

247.08 | 158.76

KILOMETERS PER HOUR MILES PER HOUR

Valentina Greggio of Italy holds the women’s record for fastest downhill skiing in 2016.

the famed railcars renowned for their speed and might, the name also celebrates the resort’s cutting-edge Challenger chairlift. This marvel of engineering ascends some of the most formidable slopes the mountain has to offer. With its steep grades and thrilling design, the course sets a new standard in alpine racing. Promising to test even the world’s best, “Challenger” stands as one of the most grueling and exhilarating downhill courses in North America. A true ride to remember.

With its steep gradients, technical turns, and breathtaking design, the Challenger course has been crafted to set a new standard in competitive skiing. It’s a true test of skill and endurance, promising to push even the most

seasoned athletes to their limits. The course’s reputation as one of North America’s most grueling and exhilarating downhill challenges ensures that it will leave a lasting impression on participants and spectators alike.

“It’s official, the Stifel Sun Valley Finals is confirmed on the FIS Alpine World Cup schedule this season,” said Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. “We are thrilled to welcome back the best skiers from each alpine discipline to the iconic slopes of Sun Valley Resort. We are confident that this event will not only be a success, but it will further show that we have world class venues right in our backyard.” ï

Local talent at the World Cup in Sun Valley include some key skiers with Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) ties. Watch for C Team competitors Ryder Sarchett (Sun Valley, ID; University of Colorado Boulder), Jack Smith (Sun Valley, ID), and Dasha Romanov (Thornton, CO; University of New Hampshire). Development team local up-and-comers include women’s team skier Paige DeHart and men’s team skier Colin Hanna.

TATIANA LAWSON

Born to Ski

BY DICK DORWORTH

Tatiana Elizabeth Lawson’s mother told her that she was skiing even before she could walk. Tatiana was born in Alta, Utah in 1982. Her great-grandfather Joe Quinney was one of the original founders of Alta in 1939. She grew up with a sister and two brothers in a small house on a glacier-carved bypass road in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Her father, Peter, was a cat driver, ski patroller, summer lift crew and Assistant General Manager for Alta Ski Lifts.

Tatiana says, “I grew up watching my father’s team shoot the 105 recoilless rifles and later the Howitzer over our house onto Superior and Hellgate. There is something captivating about watching the initial fracture and then the billowing river of a white avalanche. I loved watching avalanches at age two; that fascination has never changed.”

Her parents divorced in the 1990s, and she moved to Oregon with her mom and siblings and started racing with the ski team for Mt. Hood Academy. As a teenager, her role model was her grandmother, Janet Eccles Quinney, who regularly regaled Tatiana with stories of her youth—ski racing in the 1940s. Tatiana’s grandmother, Janet, was so competitive that she put rocks in her pockets to increase her weight so she could ski even faster. Joe grew weary and wary of Janet’s intrepid nature and actually hid Janet’s skis in 1957 when she was pregnant with Tatiana’s father, Peter!

Janet was a member of the 1944 Olympic Ski Team and was ready to race for the USA. Unfortunately, for all the athletes, the games in Cortina d’Ampezzo were canceled because of WWII. She was a true pioneer for women in winter sports.

Tatiana graduated from Colorado College in 2006 with a degree in English and Film and immediately went to work ski-patrolling at Alta. Having been involved in several large avalanche operations and rescues in Alta, she says, “I have a passion for mountain medical response. I watched my partner, Bruce, go over a cliff in the Low Notch while I clung to a tree my rookie year. Then I descended to help dig him out. Another winter, when we were facing deep slab instability, one of my shots partially buried my route partner, Coleman, propagated up High Greely and completely buried another patroller, Grovesie, and air

blasted a third patroller, Jonathan. I learned a lot that day. I learned that I cared more about my team than skiing.”

For many years, identifying as a “water chaser,” Tatiana ski-patrolled in winter and river-guided in summer in Moab, Utah. She then moved to Haines to work for Alaska Mountain Guides. Eventually, Tatiana received a Master’s in Education and Counseling, graduating with honors in 2012 from Lewis and Clark School of Education and Counseling. That year, she attended Piney’s Alta patrol refresher and traveled to the Himalayas to teach school in Asia.

‘‘ I loved watching avalanches at age two; that fascination has never changed.”

—TATIANA LAWSON

In 2013, she applied to patrol at Alyeska, where Mike Welch, whom she knew from Alta, was working as a patrolman and helicopter ski guide. They both went to work for Chugach Powder Guides and soon fell in love. Following in her grandmother’s footsteps, Tatiana heli-guided during the day and worked the ski patrol night shift at Alyeska until she was four months pregnant in 2019.

Tatiana and Mike now have two children, Sylvie Winter, 4, and Sylas Snow, 2. While pregnant, she was hired as the first female Ski Patrol Director at Alyeska. She says of that job, “Alyeska captured my heart in a way that no place ever has. I went to Gun School to learn how to use the Howitzer. Alyeska still has three of them. There is no better tool for the job. And I loved working those early mornings. I believe that likely has to do with watching avalanches across the street as a small child. It’s intoxicating and satisfying, and you can feel it in your guts.”

Today, Tatiana is the first female ski patrol director at Sun Valley. She describes her job as “one of the greatest honors in my life, and I want to care for this team like a mama bear.” ï

ANTHONY M. BUONCRISTIANI, MD

Do-It-All Surgeon

BY CRISTY SELLAS

Anthony M. Buoncristiani, MD—affectionately known as Dr. Tony, is dual-board certified in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine. His website states, “His expertise involves the comprehensive management of knee and shoulder injuries/disorders and minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery. He routinely performs trauma surgery and management of all musculoskeletal disorders, both pediatric and adult.”

In this town full of highly active kids and adults, Dr. Tony is a very busy and much sought-after physician.

Dr. Tony Buoncristiani grew up in the Bay Area of California. His mother was and still is a nurse, and his sister also became a nurse. As a child and young adult, he was athletic, goal-oriented, competitive and driven. He attended UC Davis pre-med and medical school at USC through a Navy scholarship (HPSP, or Health Professionals Scholarship Program). He then went to Pensacola Flight Surgeon School and interned at Balboa Naval Hospital in San Diego.

He served five years of active duty with the US Navy and was deployed as a flight surgeon to the Middle East with both Navy and Marine squadrons. For participating in a humanitarian evacuation operation in Eritrea/Ethiopia, he was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal and the prestigious Air Medal.

Following this, Dr. Tony completed his civilian residency in orthopedic surgery at the University of Washington. He met his wife, Carina, there in Seattle. Following that, he participated in a top-notch fellowship program specifically geared toward the concept of sports medicine at the University of Pittsburgh. He worked with the University of Pittsburgh Panthers football team and the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins, traveling with the teams and working directly and consistently with the athletes. “Working with professional athletes is a higher level of maintenance and great training,” Dr. Tony says. So finally—after Washington, California, Pennsylvania and beyond, Dr. Tony settled in Sun Valley in 2006. He had vacationed here in the Valley and loved it, and when he completed his extensive schooling and training, he just started calling around town to find a practice he could join. Del Pletcher took that call because the timing was perfect. Dr. Tony took over Pletcher’s practice and has been on his own since Day One.

Dr. Tony worked out of St. Luke’s for many years but recently moved to his current offices on Second Street South in Ketchum. He truly has a solo practice; he does not have any PAs and sees all his patients himself. And they all have his cell phone number.

Dr. Tony works very closely with the Sun Valley Suns hockey team and the Sun Valley Ski Education foundation ski team—no shortage of injuries with either of those organizations by the very nature of the sports, and he knows all the coaches and all the kids which makes a big difference as far as care—a familiar face is always comforting especially when it’s part of a package that includes excellent skill and competence.

Dr. Tony also brought ImPact from Pittsburgh to the Wood River Valley. He’s very proud of this, as he should be. ImPact is a comprehensive program that reduces the risks associated with concussions by establishing baselines through testing for all athletes. This way, coaches can keep kids within 90% of their baseline.

Dr. Tony is an athlete himself, so he can relate to his patients. He loves mountain biking and competes in endurance biking competitions, including the Colorado Trail Race, which involves over 500 miles of biking and backpacking (“bike-packing” with 70,000 feet of elevation gain). He likes to test his limits physically and mentally, so he’s uniquely qualified to treat and understand the residents and athletes of our town.

Dr. Tony loves the evolutionary aspect of treating a patient from injury to returning that patient to top form. Patients are anxious and undone when an injury forces them out of their wellness routines. He wants to make sure that patients understand what he is doing wrong and how he will fix it—how he and his patient will fix it together— getting people through the whole process.

“I feel for my patients,” he says. “I get it—when you’re used to hiking or biking or skiing for several hours every day—having to stop that is hard— mostly mentally and emotionally. I’m a surgeon, but I’m also a psychologist.”

He’s involved with the whole picture.

“Our minds are powerful things,” he says. “And all humans respond differently to injuries.” Patients should have proper and appropriate expectations, but he also knows he needs to help them stay motivated. He understands how stressful this time can be for patients and their families.

Dr. Tony loves his work and treats people how he would want to be treated. He loves the immediate gratification of the surgery itself. “Reconstruction is literally putting things back together,” he says, but he considers himself a conservative doctor. He follows in the footsteps of Dr. Pletcher, who was also not always inclined to perform surgery if other approaches to the injury would be potentially practical. ï

ADELE SAVARIA

Tending a Family Legacy

BY LORI WILLIAMS

“It was the best decision I’ve ever made,” says Adele Savaria, of the 1981 move with her mom from Alpine Meadows, California, where she raced for the Squaw Valley Ski Team, to the Wood River Valley and the Sun Valley Ski Team, when she was 16 years old. Her successful racing career flourished with the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) coaching efforts, propelling her to a six-year span as a member of the US Ski Team, racing World Cup and competing in the 1987 World Championships.

That decision would land her in the lap of a family legacy steeped in the SVSEF organization and an unfolding chapter of Wood River Valley skiing history. At the 1988 Copper Mountain National Championships slalom event, she made her most daring race move yet with a spontaneous and uncharacteristic landing in Pat Savaria’s lap to make her introduction.

The two have been together ever since.

Their relationship was long distance at first. Adele, then 24, attended the College of Idaho, maximizing her final year of ski eligibility, where she was an Academic All-American, NCSA Slalom, Giant Slalom and Overall Champion. She also played three years of tennis, reaching NAIA Nationals each year in women’s doubles, and was inducted into the College of Idaho Athletic Hall of Fame in 2003. Her coaching career with SVSEF began in 1990 and continues to this day.

Pat had grown up racing on the Sun Valley Ski Team, raced in Jr. and US Nationals, Nor-Ams, and a year for the University of Colorado Boulder before attending Boise State University. Following this, he began his long coaching career with SVSEF in 1983. Pat also coached the Men’s US Alpine Tech Ski Team, the Albertville Olympic Men’s Alpine team and the World Championship Men’s Alpine team. In 1993, Adele finished college, and the two got married.

The Savaria family legacy began with Pat’s father, Jim Savaria, a name synonymous with the early days of Sun Valley Skiing and SVSEF’s origins. Founded in 1966, Jim was the foundation’s first coach. He helped coach many of Sun Valley’s great ski racers on Baldy and Rotarun, was a member of the Sun Valley Ski Patrol, and groomed Baldy’s runs. In 2019, he was inducted into the Sun Valley Winter Sports Hall of Fame.

Two generations later, Pat and Adele’s two sons, KJ and Austin, began their skiing careers on Dollar Mountain’s magic carpet. They raced for over a decade on the Sun Valley Ski Team. Both won a Mini World Cup Overall Championship, raced Junior Olympics and Nationals, and also

excelled at football for Wood River High School. Adele lured both into SVSEF coaching part-time during their college years at BSU. KJ still coaches part-time for SVSEF. He and his wife, Dani, look forward to the day their son begins his own journey in the program.

Austin is the US Ski Team Men’s World Cup Assistant Speed Coach. His wife, Anika, is also an accomplished ski racer and is SVSEF Head Women’s FIS coach. Says Austin, “Ski racing has been a part of my life since before I can remember. It’s more than just a sport; it’s in our blood. Racing taught me countless life lessons, from navigating the world to the benefit of hard work and dedication.”

Adele continues to coach U12 and is also the SVSEF Communication and Events Manager. This additional role has allowed her to digitally compile, organize and preserve the historical nature of all SVSEF races, awards, and disciplines. “I feel very fortunate to have the experiences I’ve had in skiing,” she says. “Through SVSEF, I have really enjoyed sharing with the kids what I know about alpine skiing and racing over the past 34 years. My number one goal is to make sure they love skiing because it’s a lifelong sport; racing is just a bonus.”

Pat has coached at all levels for 41 years and still coaches FIS. When asked why, he says, “I love working with the other passionate coaches and helping athletes find their perfect turn.” The couple furthered Jim’s passion for the sport by starting the free L.A.S.A.R. (Learn to Alpine Ski and Race) Program at Rotarun in 2003. “We wanted to do something for our community whereby no family had to pay for their child to learn to ski and race,” says Adele. “We did the fundraising ourselves to ensure it would happen. SVSEF now runs the program through scholarships.”

Pat and Adele have both received the Intermountain Coach of the Year Award, and Pat has twice received the SVSEF Lifetime Achievement. Says KJ, “Growing up in the program, we got to be around our parents in some capacity at the different age levels. Even after being an athlete, I’ve been privileged to share the hill as a coach alongside them and continue to see their passion for the sport. I wouldn’t trade anything for the time spent together over the years.”

Austin’s reflections capture the family heritage. “When looking back on my family’s connection to the sport, the opportunity to give back to the community that helped shape us means the most. Helping athletes grow on and off the hill is something special. I’m grateful for the opportunity to pass down the life lessons and passion for the sport, and I am giving it my all to honor their work and build on their legacy.” ï

NIGHTLIFE AT THE TOP

The Heroes of Winter: A Photo Essay of Sun Valley’s Snow Groomers

PHOTOS BY CLINT KOEHLER

When Sun Valley Resort broke off an unprecedented string of three straight finishes as the No. 1 ski resort in Ski Magazine’s annual Top 30 Ski Resorts in the West (2021-2023), Bald Mountain’s perfect snow grooming played a heavy role in those rankings. Even before the top finishes, Sun Valley had been known for its world-class groomers, but few see the hours of work and precision behind what creates the consistently smooth Upper and Lower College or the perfectly groomed, leg-burning Warm Springs runs.

This photo essay is Sun Valley Magazine’s ode to The Heroes of Winter—highlighting the hard work the Sun Valley snow grooming team logs from the moment the last run closes, through the wee hours of the night and into early morning before the mountain opens. These midnight cowboys wrestle mother nature with their lights tracing Baldy’s most beloved ski runs in the pitch black cold and darkness. They are the renegades of these hills, turning our beautiful Bald Mountain into corduroy country.

Telling a story through his camera lens during the 2023/24 winter season, former Sun Valley snow groomer Clint Koehler highlights the work of snow cats at night, featuring majestic views and awe-inspiring photography that illuminate the solitary work and late hours a snow groomer logs to make those on-piste runs so smooth— revealing another side of Baldy seldom seen. ï

This page (top): The photographer, Clint Koehler, takes a break for a morning photo. (Bottom left): Tackling Mid-Hemingway while the snowmaking guns are doing their best to build more for the next night’s shift. Opposite page: A rare night for a free cat and a spectacular clear night on top of Bald Mountain.

Saying good morning from Warm Springs on Bald Mountain with the Pioneer Mountains in the background.

SUNS HOCKEY Prepared for a Golden Moment

Sun Valley’s hockey history runs over 50 years of excitement, celebrity games, and a foundation of talent

WORDS BY JEFF CORDES PHOTOS BY RAY GADD

Imagining Ketchum and Sun Valley without skiing is impossible, especially with the 202425 World Cup Finals coming for the first time to Baldy in March and Sun Valley’s 90th anniversary in 2026. Skiing is the gold standard here. Sun Valley’s storied history begins on skis and just on skis.

But when Ice Hockey came to Sun Valley in 1975, the sport brought new vitality and energy to the town. With the sport came the state-of-the-art indoor ice rink, which was built next to the existing outdoor rink. Very soon after the arena opened, the Sun Valley Suns men’s hockey team was born, and they are still going strong—50 years later!

How strong? The Suns have played 1,097 games in 49 seasons at Sun Valley Indoor Ice Rink and, for the last nine years, also at Campion Ice House in Hailey. Nearly 350 players from the US and Canada have suited up in the Suns jersey. An increasingly robust youth hockey program has also been launched, utilizing the state-of-the-art facility.

Suns teams have traveled internationally for games and competed in national senior tournaments. But more importantly, Suns players have captured the heart of a mountain community with their willingness to compete at a high level and party with the best!

Right from the start, “A ski town also became a hockey town,” says Suns president of hockey operations John Burke from Duluth, Minn., an original Suns player in 1975.

Like many early Suns alumni like Bobby Noyes, Chris Benson and Glenn Hunter, Burke has unselfishly served as a player, coach, organizer, fund-raiser and booster. He said, “We’ve had our ups and downs over 50 years. But the community embraced us from the start. The players and Suns culture kept things going.”

And now, in 2024, it’s hard to imagine the Valley without hockey. Suns hockey has become family entertainment, and the players have become family. In 2022, the Suns celebrated its first-ever third generation of players with John Weekes, Beets Johnson and Parker Weekes.

The longevity of the Suns is otherworldly. No other Senior Elite men’s hockey team in the

Sun Valley Suns Info Board

1976-1977: EARLY ROSTER (first full season, 19-1-2)

Phil Hoene (leading scorer: 14 goals, 25 assists), Hermie Haavik, Alex Orb, John Burke, Brooks Weiner, Chip LaLone, Jeff McCallum, Mike Boylston, Brian Saksa, John Weekes (player/coach), Sam Gray, Terry Leonidas, Kim Salmela, Paul Burgert, Corey Bertelsen, Leonard Green, Dick Nelson, Jeff Nee, Nick Orr, David Knott, Charlie Holt (goaltender: 2.60 goals per game, 20 games), Jim Moran (goaltender)

OTHERS WHO PLAYED IN THE EARLY DAYS: Kim Pawlicki and George Gund.

2024-2025 CURRENT ROSTER

(30 of 32 players returning from 2003-24)

Owen Powers (leading Scorer: 13 goals, 27 assists in 24-game season), Justin Taylor, Parker Weekes, Max Tardy, Nick Curry, Dylan Shamburger, Mike Curry, Sean O’Grady, Ace Cowans, Cade Street,

The Sun Valley Suns don’t just bring the intensity of the ice; they bring fun and fan involvement to the Wood River Valley. There’s never a time when a Suns player won’t make time for a youngster. There have been laughs, exciting matches and carrying on a tradition of the game of ice hockey.

country has lasted as long. Only St. Nick’s Hockey Club of New York City, established in 1896, is comparable, but St. Nick’s doesn’t play a regular schedule of games like the Suns.

The Suns have lasted longer than 12 National Hockey League teams, but despite the loyalty of its active Alumni Association, the team’s survival has never been assured.

From Ski Town to Hockey Town

It was an inauspicious start in December 1975, as many hockey enthusiasts skated a couple of times a week on the outdoor rink—which had no sideboards, flimsy metal frames for nets and an abbreviated skating surface.

Change was imminent. General contractor Herman Maricich estimated that the indoor rink was built between the fall of 1974 and the summer of 1975 for $450,000. Wealthy hockey enthusiast George Gund III underwrote much of the cost. The land on which the rink was built was leased from Sun Valley Resort for 15 years at $1 a year.

Gund’s constant support was the glue holding the Suns financially together for its first halfcentury, just as he was also an integral part of USA Hockey nationwide during the formative period of American hockey growth from 1975-2000.

Former Suns general manager Charlie Mills, who worked 34 years for the Gund family, says, “George was the major investor, and he was always there for the Suns. He loved the Suns. He liked the idea of just having fun to play hockey.”

Young hockey players from the hockey-mad Duluth (Minn.) community followed the lead of original Suns captain Hermie Haavik and streamed into Ketchum. “Duluth played a big part,” says original Suns player Alex Orb. “For all the players who came out here, they might have turned out the lights in Duluth.”

A 1978 feature article about the Suns by Clayton Kyle in the National Hockey Magazine was headlined “Hockey Invades Ski Country.”

Sun Valley Suns Info Board

2024-2025 CURRENT ROSTER (continued)

D.J. Robinson, Steve McCall, Stephen Inman, Drew Tallet, Spencer Brendel, Doug Yeates, Derek Grimes, Chad O’Brien, Eric Demment, Jack Stevens, Niels McMahon, Kyle Caddo, Taylor Rothgeb, David Dredge, Vinny Dimaggio, Zane Cowans, Trevor Thomas, Tripp Hutchinson (goaltender), Ben McLean (goaltender) and James Moskos (goaltender).

ALL-TIME TOP COACHES

JOHN BURKE 16 seasons: 1986-94, 2013-21 229-89-9

John Weekes 11 seasons: 1974-86 197-68-10

CURRENT COACH

Ryan Enrico 3 seasons: 2021-2 54-14-0

SV SUNS GOAT (Greatest of All Time)

PHIL HOENE who helped put the Suns on the map in his eight seasons from 1977-84. Hoene (89 goals, 122 assists) is still ranked among the top 20 Suns scorers and among the top 22 all-time Minnesota high school hockey players. His record is legendary at the private Duluth Cathedral High School, where he scored 115 goals and 56 assists as a dynamic forward for Hilltoppers from 1965-67. On Feb. 1, 1967, senior Hoene, with speed and a wicked backhand shot, exploded for 3 goals in 27 seconds of the second period, leading Duluth Cathedral to a 6-4 comeback win over arch-rival Duluth East, christening the brand-new Duluth Entertainment Convention Center rink before 6,122 spectators—about 800 over the sold-out number. In 23 games as a senior, he had 43 goals, including 11 hat tricks and 22 assists. His efforts helped the Hilltoppers to their straight Hilltoppers title. Hoene played three seasons with 33 goals for Univ. of Minnesota-Duluth from 1968-71 and skated four seasons through 1975 for the NHL Los Angeles Kings and AHL

Talented young hockey players came to Sun Valley not for the pay—since there wasn’t any pay to play—but because they liked the mountains and the lifestyle. The article helped put the Suns on the map nationally.

Word got around. Indeed, Vilnis Nikolaisons, the all-time leading Suns scorer, grew up in Riga, Latvia, under the Soviet Union and its successful state system of hockey and first came to North America in 1998.

Nikolaisons played with his Latvian friend Ivars Muzis for the Tacoma Sabercats of the West Coast Hockey League, which visited Sun Valley for an exhibition game in October 1998. Nikolaisons was eventually cut from Tacoma, but Suns coach Tim Jeneson convinced him to come to Sun Valley for the winter.

Nikolaisons played 13 years for the Suns, ran his own business and raised a family here. He and Muzis, who followed him to Sun Valley, are still ranked No. 1 and No. 18 on the Suns all-time scoring list.

The selfless nature of hockey players has been vital over the years. Hockey players want to play hockey, just as skiers prioritize skiing. Burke says, “There’s a passion for hockey from a young age. It’s a game with all kinds of unwritten rules and behavior toward others. You are playing because you love the game. You watch out for each other. You take care of the new guys. Nobody judges. It’s a unique culture.”

Suns current general manager Sean O’Grady says, “There’s humility among hockey players, a lot of tongue-in-cheek humor and self-deprecation. Nobody thinks they are better than anyone else. You try to play a role in helping the team. Really, you can’t put into words what has gone into 50 years of Suns hockey.”

Certainly, the formation of the non-profit Suns Foundation in 2004, thanks to the efforts of PGA golf pro Davis Love III, and the arrival of the Suns Alumni Association two years ago, put the franchise on sounder footing. Weekend benefit nights started by Hunter in the 1990s jump-started the community outreach of the Suns Foundation.

Sun Valley Suns Info Board

Springfield Kings. After trying international hockey for a year in Finland, he followed Duluth friends to Sun Valley starting early in 1977 and remained in Idaho. “I liked it here,” he said at the time. “The guys on the team are serious, but we have fun.” Hoene, now 75, retired to Boise and Twin Falls, where he stays active playing golf and returning for Sun Valley Suns fund-raising golf tournaments.

INDIVIDUAL RECORDS

MOST GOALS: Bobby Noyes 195

MOST ASSISTS: Glenn Hunter 295

HIGHEST POINT TOTAL: Vilnis Nikolaisons

173 goals, 288 assists, 461 points (13 seasons)

MOST GAMES PLAYED: Glenn Hunter 372 Bobby Noyes 361 Ryan Enrico 305.

MOST CONSECUTIVE GAMES PLAYED: Glenn Hunter 195 (1978-86)

MOST GAMES AND WINS: Goalie Dan Nee 213 games, 150 wins.

FASTEST GOAL TO START A PERIOD: 5 seconds

Alex Orb (from Rick Schnier) vs. Duluth Heads of the Lake, Dec. 31, 1977

FASTEST 3 GOALS BY SUNS: 24 seconds, vs. Boulder Fireballs, Feb. 12, 1982

TEAM RECORDS

BEST RECORD: 1988-89 season: 23-0-1

MOST WINS: 2001-02 season: 28-2 including a two-season, 22-game win streak

BEST 6-SEASON RECORD: 1978-84: 134-35-2 (.784 winning percentage)

MOST GOALS, SEASON: 2001-02 team: 211 (only 99 allowed in 30 games)

FEWEST GOALS ALLOWED: Game: 20

Season: 67 (by the 1988-89 and 1976-77 teams)

FRANCHISE OVERTIME RECORD: 47-46-20

113 OT games over 49 seasons

FRANCHISE RECORD: 755-308-30

1,093 games over 49 seasons

But what the Suns really needed for success was a place to call home.

Hailey Ice, Inc., was a non-profit corporation established in 2000. For many years, it provided the community with free outdoor skating in Hailey. The high usage convinced Hailey Ice that building a fully enclosed ice area was essential.

In 2010, Hailey Ice was part of a general obligation bond that allowed it to lease city property at Wertheimer Park to build a new skating facility. An aggressive fund-raising campaign started in 2012 provided Hailey Ice with lead donations totaling $1 million.

The Lynn Campion family invested $4 million more to fully enclose the arena. This sizable donation provided momentum for raising another $6.5 million to complete the facility, which opened its doors for the first time as Campion Ice Area in November 2015.

It’s been a big success story over its first decade. Hailey Ice executive director Sarah Benson said that Campion Arena counted 50,000 visits over the past year, including all its recreational and practice offerings and a popular curling league.

Because of increased usage by different groups, Benson said Campion Ice Arena is now open 10 months a year instead of the original seven months a year schedule.

Sun Valley Youth Hockey has significantly contributed to Campion Arena’s community economic engine. For 2024-25, nine weekend tournaments are planned from October through March—from 8-and-under (8U) through high school. Out-of-town college hockey teams are leasing Campion for games.

SVYH registrar Nancy Fenn says her program had welcomed 3,573 participants, a yearly average of 223 in groups from 6U Mini Mites to 10U Squirts, 12U Pee Wees, 14U Bantams, 19U girls and high school since 2008.

The young skaters exclusively used Sun Valley Skating Center for games and practices before 2015. In the nine years since Campion Arena opened, 2,309 kids have signed up for SVYH, an average of 256 a year, topped by program records of 303, 331 and 322 since 2021.

Suns pioneer Alex Orb also founded Sun Valley Youth Hockey with John Weekes and Bob Cadiente in February 1977. Suns players stepped up as coaches. “We were players. None of us had coached,” Orb says. “But we wanted to learn. We sought out Joe Marmo of Idaho Falls and found ways to earn coaching credentials through USA Hockey.”

“I think we had 30 kids that first year,” Orb adds. “People thought we were nuts to start it because of the enthusiasm for skiing. What we found out was not everybody wanted to ski, so the program picked up quickly, and we doubled the number of kids the second year.”

SVYH reached a milestone in 2023 when its boys’ high school hockey team went 42-6-4 and won eight tournaments, including the Minnesota Chipotle 1A Youth Tier 2 national championship. It is a prominent banner among the dozens hanging at Campion Arena.

“Are we creating a feeder program for the Suns? Yes!” says Burke, acknowledging many former SVYH players on recent Suns teams.

Fans have responded to the family atmosphere at Suns games.

The Suns’ attendance at Campion games has steadily risen. In 2017, they drew 5,582 fans on 14 home dates. In 2018, they drew 8,183 fans on 19 home engagements, including the Black Diamond Hockey League tournament. In 2019, they drew 7,705 fans on 19 dates.

By 2023, the Suns’ attendance was 9,181 fans in 18 home games. Last year, it was 12,137 in 19 Suns home games. Burke said, “Campion Ice House has been a real plus for us in solidifying our fan base.”

Burke adds, “When I got here in 1975, it worked perfectly in my life. I just loved it—it was so much fun to be here, and the hockey was some of the best in the country. Suns hockey has given me so much more than I’ve given it—the friendships and, of course, the life in the valley. ï

Sun Valley Suns Info Board

TOP RIVALRIES

EAST COAST GUTTER SNIPES (SINCE 2006): 18 seasons

36 games

Snipes lead 21-15-0 and 213-196 in goals against JACKSON HOLE MOOSE (FROM 1997-2020): 19 seasons

82 games

Moose (20-22 away, 27-12-1 home) lead 47-34-1

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

During the 1997-98 season, the Suns, coached by Tim Jeneson, finished 19-12-1, including the program’s only national title, achieved April 2-5 at the U.S. Senior Nationals in Fond du Lac, Wisc. The Suns went 4-1—dropping their first game 3-2 to Portage Lake, Mich., winning 7-3 over Green Mill from Minneapolis and 7-3 over Fond du Lac, 6-4 over Green Bay and, in the final, 5-2 over Portage Lake. MVP was Mikael Reijo, and the team’s top scorer was a defenseman, Kris Webster, with 15 goals and 41 points. The captain was Phil Hebert, assisted by Chris Benson and Harry Weekes.

2024-2025 SEASON HOME GAMES

Sun Valley’s Senior “A” Elite men’s hockey team is entering its 50th season with a 753-311-29 cumulative record in its 1,093 games. The 2024-25 Suns have a 26-game regular-season schedule—20 games at home and 6 away—plus 1 holiday exhibition game. All games are played at Campion Ice House in Hailey.

DECEMBER

12/12: Bozeman Stingers

12/21: Future Suns Exhibition Game

12/27-12/28: McCall Mountaineers

JANUARY

1/3-4: New England Predators

1/17-1/18: Jackson Hole Moose

1/24-25: East Coast Gutter Snipes

FEBRUARY

2/7-8: Boston Bisons

2/14-2/15: New York Mafia

2/21-2/22: Wilmington Wheels

2/28-3/1: Arizona Desert Dogs

MARCH

3/14-3/15: The Open

inthearts

From War to Wasteland

Nick Brandt portraits of casualties in the climate crisis

WORDS BY RILEY BOICE

Today, over 600,000 Syrian refugees are living in Jordan. Displaced by the civil war more than a decade ago, many who fled violence now face the devastating effects of the climate crisis. In Jordan, the second most water-scarce country on the planet, drought makes rainfall scarce. These refugees, most of whom rely on agricultural work, must move as many as five times a year in ceaseless pursuit of arable land.

English photographer and climate activist Nick Brandt’s latest work, “The Echo of Our Voices: The Day May Break Chapter Four” (2024,) explores the transformative power of human connection in the face of adversity. This chapter in his ongoing global series (on display at Gilman Contemporary until January 23, 2025) features portraits of 21 Syrian families standing atop boxes, which Brandt views as “pedestals for the unseen and unheard,” amplifying voices often ignored.

Brandt began his project with several weeks

PHOTOS COURTESY NICK BRANDT & GILMAN

“Laila Standing, Jordan 2024” by Nick Brandt, photography.

of travel around Jordan, cultivating trust with refugees – promising that at their most vulnerable, he would honor their struggle and capture them with dignity and respect. Brandt transported more than 170 family members to Jordan’s Wadi Rum desert, working for six weeks with as many as 40 individuals a day in a process he describes as “photographic jazz.”

Through careful posing and reconfiguration of the blocks, Brandt worked “to capture the genuine connection between father and daughter or mother and son… through these human sculptures.” Hopefully, he added, in a way that “feels both genuine and surprising in its execution.”

“I became a photographer to express my feelings about the destruction of the natural world,” said Brandt. He took what he describes as a “15-year detour” in directing, saying his career in photography really began in 2001 with a trilogy of work titled “On This Earth,” which

memorialized the loss of wildlife wilderness and exposed the tragic consequences of human “progress” in East Africa from 2001 to 2012.

Each chapter of the three-part series, “On This Earth,” “A Shadow Falls,” and “Across the Ravaged Land,” explores, in sequence, the growing threat to wildlife survival due to human activity, the looming destruction of ecosystems by urbanization, and the direct impact of environmental degradation on the suffering of both animals and humans.

His next works, “Inherit the Dust” (2015) and “This Empty World” (2017), were shot in Kenya and Bolivia, respectively. Both showcase the haunting, abandoned remnants of wildlife habitats where animals once thrived and the desolation left behind by human exploitation and industrialization.

All of Brandt’s work explores the dire consequences of the climate crisis, but chapters one and two of “The Day May Break” (2020

and 2022) mark a shift in focus – taking humans as his primary subjects, he reveals the unmediated connection between human suffering and environmental collapse. The third chapter, “SINK/RISE,” depicts Pacific Islanders on sofas, at tables with family – vignettes of what could be their ordinary lives, plunged underwater. Shot off the coast of the Fijian islands, the scenes are a haunting representation of the loss of land and livelihood to rising sea levels.

Brandt’s human subjects make the impacts of climate disruption not just visible but personal. His images communicate the emotional toll of climate change, showing how human lives are increasingly shaped by environmental factors beyond their control, reflecting both the personal and collective anguish of people living in climate-vulnerable areas.

Beyond flooding, extreme weather events, frequent intense droughts, and disruptions to agriculture and food security, Brandt’s work

Clockwise from top: “The Cave, Jordan 2024” Nick Brandt, photography; “Rakan Girls by Moonlight, Jordan 2024” by Nick Brandt, photography; Brandt and production team at work in Jordan.

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‘‘When all else is lost, you still have each other.”

—NICK BRANDT (ON THE PROJECT’S CENTRAL THEME)

“Women with Sleeping Children, Jordan 2024” by Nick Brandt, photography.

explores the broader, uniquely human implications of climate change: how changes in our environment lead to cultural erosion and historical rupture as people are forced to move away from lands that have sustained them for generations.

While much of Brandt’s work is deeply sobering, it is not devoid of hope. Though his images often capture profound suffering and loss, they are also imbued with a sense of courage. Brandt’s subjects demand awareness and call for action.

“In spite of their loss, these people and animals are the survivors,” Brandt said of “The Day May Break.”

Brandt creates striking, evocative visual narratives that transcend traditional boundaries. By elevating his oftenoverlooked subjects to the realm of fine art while anchoring their portrayal in the truth of documentary, Brandt urges viewers to regard the plight of these populations with the same seriousness and empathy as they would their own.

In Jordan for “Echo of Our Voices,” Brandt would sit up each night reviewing the day’s photographs, trying and trying again to find the delicate equilibrium between authentic moments of familial connection and sculptural composition.

The resulting photographs are alive with the profound strength and stability our relationships provide in the tempest of grief.

“When all else is lost, you still have each other,” Brandt said, reflecting the project’s central theme.

Against a mountainous desert background, these human sculptures mirror the landscape. They hold on to one another, “not in weakness,” said Brandt, “but with strength and defiance.” In lives marred by near-constant motion, here they are still – at rest in the embrace of those that are dearest to them. ï

“Ariam, Khairiya and Sojoon, Jordan 2024” by Nick Brandt, photography.

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The Cultural Connection

The Argyros Performing Arts Center is bringing culture, conversations, art,

and more to the forefront

WORDS BY CRISTY SELLAS

Casey Mott is the artistic director for the Argyros Performing Arts Center. When I spoke to him, he had just returned from a conference in Phoenix, a very corporate gathering, and before that, a weekend in the French Quarter of New Orleans with Ben Jaffe, the creative director of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band—experiencing first-hand the very bohemian and wildly creative lifestyle of a legendary artist. Those two different work trips illustrate why Mott (who can be both business-minded and visionary) is the ideal Artistic Director for the Argyros and why this cultural hub in our town more than fulfills its mission to “enthrall audiences and inspire performers.”

This 25,000-square-foot performing arts complex truly has something for everyone. Just this past weekend, the Argyros presented a Ruth Bader Ginsberg documentary with a Q&A session, the Jayanthi Raman Dance Company and Gideon Freudmann performed Buster Keaton’s Sherlock Jr., a live cello performance to a silent film with real-time digital effects—a fusion of cinema and live music.

“You can’t always take fliers, but you need a sprinkling of that seasoning throughout the programming, so you have risk-taking, adventure and innovation within a solid elevated art experience,” Mott said.

This diverse snapshot of the programming calendar is not a rarity. Since opening to the public in November 2018, the Argyros has consistently showcased performers from all artistic disciplines and multiple genres within those disciplines. The multifaceted performing arts spaces within the complex are designed to be flexible enough to accommodate this wide range of interests. The theatre has more than fulfilled its goal of over six years ago—to become a cultural hub that gracefully serves both world-class performances and local events.

BY DEV KHALSA

PHOTO

Caleb Meyer, “As Seasons Change”, oil on canvas, 24” x 36”

“Bulwark”, acrylic on canvas, 48” x 48”, Andrew Bolam

“Echoes of Summer”, oil on canvas, 36” x 12”, Lori McNee

“Sunset in September”, oil on canvas, 30” x 30”, Mark Gibson

“Coffee”, egg temera on panel, 14” x 14”, Eric G. Thompson

“Lil’ Longhorn”, bronze, 12” x 20” x 12”, Mark Yale Harris

“October in Idaho”, oil on canvas, 24” x 48”, Ovanes Berberian

“Autumn Lake,” oil on canvas, 36” x 48”, Robert Moore

The second piece of the Argyros mission is to support all local non-profits. This also indirectly supports education, the environment, health and human services. Mott explained that the usage is essentially a pie cut three ways between The Argyros Presents, the public programming, and as a private “rentable” space. The Argyros has also consistently been a home for ongoing programs coming from organizations like the Sun Valley Center for the Arts, the Sun Valley Symphony, the Sun Valley Opera, Ballet Sun Valley, the Film Festival, the Jazz Festival and more.

The facility itself—a non-profit organization—is spectacular. The hospitality at every event is at the next level, so the economics of art must come into play to maintain that. In other words, there needs to be a balance of commerce and art to continue the operation.

Choosing outside programming often leads to an internal conversation, but Mott himself tries not to have an opinion on who rents and who doesn’t. Not everyone will always agree ideologically and philosophically, but Mott believes the conversation must happen. Mott is always interested in pushing boundaries and surpassing expectations: “Let’s get outside the bubble in the world of arts and entertainment.”

Mott grew up in the Valley. After a

successful career as an independent filmmaker, he decided to return and raise his family here rather than in Los Angeles.

“What’s rewarding and invigorating about being back here is how ideologically and politically diverse Sun Valley and Ketchum are (ironically—Los Angeles and especially the movie industry are extremely homogenous), and that’s a core philosophy of the Argyros— something for everyone,” said Mott.

As the artistic director, Mott always aims for a true cultural vibrancy. Mott and the rest of the team constantly strive to touch hearts and minds and promote connectedness because art can do this. Art can unify us and help us to recognize our shared humanity. Engaging with all the art forms the Argyros offers allows us to imagine, emote and question ourselves and the world around us.

And again, the space itself is stunning. Mott said he “wants to raise not only the ceiling but also the floor.” This translates to a focus on heightened experiences for the performers and the audience.

Moving forward, Mott focuses on creating a “stable of artists.” He calls it “building out the house.” Among his triedand-true returning performers are Steve Hackman, Curtis Stigers, Time for Three, and, as mentioned earlier, The Preservation

THE PLAYERS AT THE ARGYROS

George and Julia Argyros are notable philanthropists from Orange County, California—well known for their work at Costa Mesa’s Segerstrom Center for the Arts, home to the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza and Center for Dance and Innovation.

They have also donated sizeable to Hoag Hospital, Chapman University, USC, the City of Hope Orange County, the CHOC foundation, and St. Luke’s.

All creative art is magic. It evokes the unseen in forms that are persuasive, enlightening, familiar, and surprising.

The universality of art allows it to touch hearts and minds, promoting cultural understanding and interconnectedness. It reinforces the idea that art is a unifying force, a universal language that transcends borders and fosters a sense of shared humanity.

Hall Jazz Band. However, he does try to keep an approximate two-year buffer between repeat performers.

Other goals include “keeping the ship in order.” He’s interested in discovering, creating, and “commissioning.” In other words, he’s intrigued by the idea of providing artists with the resources they need and, thus, truly leveraging the space available at the Argyros and the people who work in it.

Despite working hard from the third-floor offices of the Argyros building preparing for future programming, he does attend every event unless he’s out of town or “hard down.”

The entire team at the Argyros believes that bringing artistic diversity to the Valley is crucial not only for the exposure and the experience but also to promote conversation and civil discourse.

After six years, the Argyros has a good enough reputation that most people will simply trust that if they go to a show there, it will be at least good, if not great, and at least interesting, if not mind-blowing.

Joseph Conrad said, “All creative art is magic, an evocation of the unseen in forms persuasive, enlightening, familiar, and surprising.”

We all need that. We thrive as individuals and as a community when we are challenged, surprised, and enlightened. ï

PHOTOS

2024/2025 GALLERY BUZZ

The Sun Valley area boasts a diverse and cosmopolitan art community. Here is a sampling of what’s in store at galleries this coming year.

KNEELAND GALLERY

The gallery represents approximately 40 nationally recognized artists, most of whom live and work in the Western United States. Their works range in style from realism to impressionism. While a variety of subject matters are available, an emphasis is placed on regional landscapes and contemporary Western figurative works. The gallery focuses on original paintings, sculptures and fine art prints. Kneeland is currently featuring Andrew Bolam—an English born painter whose travels through the American West have informed his subject matter greatly. Kneeland Gallery new location: 411 N. Leadville Ste. #2 as of Thanksgiving

“Bulwark” by Andrew Bolam at Kneeland Gallery, acrylic on canvas, 48 x 48 inches.

by: Bill Barrett, Duke Beardsley, Kollabs, Rudi Broschofsky, Russell Chatham, Edward Curtis, Ewoud de Groot, Joan Mitchell, Ken Peloke, Billy Schenck, Theodore Villa, Andy Warhol

GILMAN CONTEMPORARY

Gilman Contemporary features a diverse range of photographers and painters who inspire conversation and discovery. This winter, it will showcase exhibitions by Kelly Ording, Nick Brandt (see article page), María Ossadón Recart and Ben Steele.

Kelly Ording’s exhibition, Sungazing, draws the viewer into a vivid realm where saturated colors and delicate lines capture fleeting moments that shape the passage of time. Nick Brandt’s photographic series, The Echo of Our Voices, is a visual commentary on environmental destruction and climate change. It features Syrian refugee families posed together on boxes against the vast empty deserts of southern Jordan. (See story page 130)

The gallery’s other featured artists are Rodney Smith, Melvin Sokolsky, James Austin Murray, Thai Mainhard and Maria Svarbova.

HEMMINGS

Hemmings Gallery features the work of local, national and international artists with rotating shows that seek to inspire and consistently explore artistic boundaries.

New artists include Jenny Rice, Jan Freeman Long & LOLA, a resin artist from the Bay Area of California whose upcoming exhibition is entitled “Around the Bend.”

BROSCHOFSKY

Established in 1987, Broschofsky Galleries features fine art focusing on the West, from historical to contemporary.

“National Treasure” by David Yarrow at Broschofsky Galleries, pigment print photograph, 52 x 70 inches (standard), 71 x 99 inches (large).

Also, at Broschofsky is David Yarrow: David Yarrow is an established British fine-art photographer, conservationist and author who documents isolated locations worldwide in his unique and recognizable style. Yarrow’s staged photographs are based on nostalgic themes and iconic images. These images include recognizable models, outlandish casts, distinguished locations, and occasionally trained animals.

A brief description behind David’s recent photograph “National Treasure”: Born

“Clouds Caramel ” by Sally King Benedict at Hemmings Gallery, mixed media on paper, 46 x 66 inches.

in Vail, Colorado, Mikaela Shiffrin has the most World Cup wins (currently 88) of any alpine skier in history (men or women) and is considered one of the greatest alpine skiers of all time.

A role model for young athletes worldwide, Mikaela was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time Magazine in 2023. She dates another skiing superstar, Norway’s downhill legend Aleksander Aamodt Kilde, and they train in the summer in his home country. To capture this legendary duo, David chose Oslo as the location, given its strong heritage in skiing and polar exploration. He thought he would do something a little different. In David’s words, “it would be rather lame to photograph Mikaela on a ski slope.”

SUN VALLEY MUSEUM OF MODERN ART

The Sun Valley Museum of Art is the oldest arts organization in central Idaho’s Wood River Valley. Founded in 1971 as the Sun Valley Center for the Arts, it has grown from a few people presenting classes and events to an organization with over 20,000 annual attendees. The museum connects people to art through exhibitions, education, programs and projects.

SUN VALLEY GALLERY OF CONTEMPORARY ART

Where Art and Inspiration Converge. The gallery curates a dynamic collection of contemporary works that captivate and inspire. From bold, abstract explorations

Clockwise from left:

“Recart Reconstruction Series” by María Ossandón at Gilman Contemporary, ink drawing with polychromos pencils and ceramics on cotton paper.

“Fargo” by David Yarrow at Broschofsky Galleries, pigment print photograph, 71 x 99 inches.

“From Venice to Xanadu” by Jeff Muhs at Sun Valley Contemporary Gallery, oil on canvas, 62 x 72 inches.

to pieces rooted in cultural storytelling, each artwork reflects the spirit of creativity that defines our space. Featured artists include innovative visionaries and those who pay homage to the beauty of nature, history, and human connection.

Jeff Muhs was born in Southampton, New York in 1966. His father, a thirdgeneration hunting and fishing guide, instilled in Jeff an intimate knowledge of their local natural environment. Thus, the barrier beach of Long Island’s south shore would later become a major current in Jeff’s work. In his early years, Jeff, also a world-champion sculptor, first learned the art of wood sculpting from his father. This traditional and exacting art form developed in Jeff a dedication and penchant for excellence, which he has carried throughout his life.

GAIL SEVERN GALLERY

For over 45 years, the Gail Severn Gallery has built a national reputation for presenting energetic exhibition schedules, participating in international art fairs, facilitating museum exhibitions and publishing books and catalogs for our artists. Upcoming featured artists include Alexander Rohrig, Lynda Lowe, and a major exhibition entitled “Past as Prelude” featuring the works of Laura McPhee, Hung Liu, Rana Rochat, Kathy Moss, Raphaëlle Goethals, Linda Christensen, Betsy Margolius, Marcia Myers, Diane Andrews Hall, Allison Stewart, Chris Maynard, Kenna Moser, Lisa Kokin, Jennifer Markowitz, Don & Era Farnsworth, Kiki Smith, April Gornik, Squeak Carnwath, and Jun Kaneko.

Severn Art Services

Picture Framing & Art Installation for 48 Years

Severn Art Services offers custom archival framing, featuring vintage and contemporary frames for fine art, mirrors, and three-dimensional objects of all sizes

Art storage and professional advisory services for artwork valuations conservation and restoration

Professional services for indoor and outdoor art installations

Severn Art Services is located in Gail Severn Gallery

Severn Art Services

OCHI

Founded in 2015, OCHI is a contemporary art gallery with locations in Sun Valley, Idaho and Los Angeles, California. Nurturing and contextualizing a diverse roster of interdisciplinary artists, OCHI highlights a mix of traditional and experimental practices that investigate the conceptual and material boundaries of art. OCHI’s program focuses on emerging and mid-career artists, collaborating with each artist to build momentum and visibility through robust activities such as institutional exhibitions, gallery partnerships, artist-initiated opportunities, educational and curatorial platforms, art fairs, and a range of press and publications.

Upcoming at OCHI

COPING WITH PARADISE: A group exhibition featuring works by Brody Albert, Peter Alexander, Larry Bell, Jessica Taylor Bellamy, Billy Al Bengston, Claire

Colette, Devin Farrand, Kim Fisher, Langley Fox, Sam Francis, Erik Fryden Borg, Hely Omar Gonzalez, James Herman, David Jien, David Korty, Jake Kean Mayman, Laurie Nye, Claudia Parducci, Helen Pashgian, Nevena Prijic, Ed Ruscha, Ben Sanders, Devon Tsuno and Brian Wills—all Los Angeles based artists whose work embodies aesthetic sensibilities informed by a certain spirit of possibility. The exhibition borrows its title from art critic Dave Hickey’s namesake essay, which contextualizes the work of Peter Alexander by the environment within which it was made—Southern California. Hickey discusses the challenge of creating art in a place as seductive as Los Angeles, with its endless stimuli, new industrial technologies, and a “dazzling particulate atmosphere of bouncing light that declares its own presence as clearly as the objects in its embrace declare their own.”

“Lotus Escape” by Jeff Muhs at Sun Valley Contemporary Gallery, oil on canvas, 62 x 72 inches.

food&drink

Baby, It’s Cold Outside

It is Hot Chocolate Weather!

WORDS BY CRISTY SELLAS PHOTOS BY RAY GADD

Hot Chocolate is a classic Winter drink that can make the entire season more enjoyable! Kids and adults alike will brave the coldest days on the mountain if they can enjoy a steaming mug of hot cocoa when the day is done. There’s nothing better than a hand-warming mug of

sweetness with whipped cream on top on a chilly winter day. Hot chocolate is one of the best parts of the season!

Kids everywhere warm up with hot cocoa and then wear chocolate mustaches with pride as they build snowmen, go skating, and throw snowballs at their pals. Snowy days

and hot chocolate go hand in hand; that tradition has been around for a long time!

LET’S LOOK AT A LITTLE HISTORY OF THIS YUMMY CONCOCTION:

The Mayans of southern Mexico and South America were drinking chocolate as far back

Winter is perfect for beautifully crafted hot cocoa and other coffee-inspired drinks when it’s cold outside. With classic hot chocolate, peppermintinfused treats or latte-inspired cocoa drinks, nobody can beat a mug of chocolatey warmth.

as 500 B.C., though they made a rather spicy version with chili peppers and usually drank it cold. Eventually, the explorer Cortez brought the drink to Europe, and it became popular with the Spanish upper class in the 1500s.

The Spanish sweetened it up, left out the chili peppers and served it hot. It took a while for the news to spread, but by the 1700s, chocolate houses had become popular in London. These shops were like the trendy

coffee shops of today, but the chocolate itself was very expensive. Hans Sloane, an Irish physician and naturalist who traveled and studied in Jamaica, brought the “chocolate + milk” idea back from the islands, and the English agreed that this made the drink even better, and it continued to grow in popularity. But it wasn’t until the middle of the 18th century that chocolate was consumed as a candy treat, not just a drink.

The pure cacao drink that the Mayans were drinking was high in caffeine, so naturally, they believed it had restorative properties, and they were right. Real, pure chocolate contains high levels of antioxidants as well as theobromine—a mood elevator. When you add milk, you also factor in calcium and vitamins. So, that delicious and cozy fireside drink is also helping you to get happy and stay strong. ï

FUN FACTS ABOUT HOT CHOCOLATE:

During the Revolutionary War, medics gave wounded and dying soldiers cups of hot chocolate and even used packets of cocoa mix as wages.

Thomas Jefferson was a big fan and believed that hot cocoa was superior to tea and coffee in terms of enjoyment and nourishment

In 1989, a 6-man sled dog expedition consumed 2,100 packets of Swiss Miss Hot cocoa!

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Roman Catholics debated whether Hot Chocolate was a drink or a food— could they have it during religious fasting? Ultimately, Pope Gregory XIII okayed it—drinkable chocolate was acceptable while fasting!

HOT SPOTS FOR HOT CHOCOLATE AROUND TOWN

Chocolate Foundry in the Sun Valley Village

Konditorei in the Sun Valley Village

Lizzy’s-491 Tenth St.

4 Roots—611 Sun Valley Road

Java-191 4th St.

Hank & Sylvie’s—580 4th st.

Bigwood Bread—271 Northwood Way

The Kneadery—260 Leadville

CLASSIC HOT CHOCOLATE

Ingredients

3 cups milk

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Kosher salt

6 ounces milk chocolate, chopped

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Marshmallows or whipped cream for topping

Combine the milk, heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the sugar and cocoa powder dissolve and the milk is steaming; do not boil. Whisk in half of the chopped chocolate until melted, then whisk in the remaining chocolate until smooth. Remove from the heat and whisk in the vanilla. Pour into mugs and top with marshmallows or whipped cream.

SAILOR JERRY & HOT CHOCOLATE

Ingredients

1.5 oz Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum

1.5 oz Butterscotch Schnapps

3 oz hot chocolate

Dash of orange bitters

Add equal parts liquor to hot chocolate, top with whipped cream and shaved chocolate, and garnish with a cinnamon stick or candy cane.

PEPPERMINT HOT CHOCOLATE

Ingredients

.25 oz Peppermint Schnapps

.5 oz Godiva Chocolate Liqueur

1 cup hot chocolate

Whipped cream for serving

Crushed peppermint candy for serving

Add peppermint schnapps, chocolate liqueur, and hot chocolate to a saucepan. Heat mixture, then add to serving glass. Garnish with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candy.

RED WINE HOT CHOCOLATE

Ingredients

.75 cup semisweet chocolate chips (recommended: Ghirardelli)

.75 cup dry red wine

.5 cup milk

.5 cup half and half

2 tbsp sugar (optional)

Pinch of salt

.5 tsp vanilla extract

Orange peel, to zest (optional)

Combine the chocolate chips, wine, milk, half-and-half, and sugar (if using) in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Heat, stirring constantly, until chocolate chips are melted and the mixture is hot.

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and salt. Pour into mugs and serve.

DINING AROUND TOWN

A fast guide to the Valley’s best eateries

BREAKFAST & CAFES

4 ROOTS JUICE BAR

At 4 Roots, all of our juices, smoothies and acai bowls are all made fresh and customizable! Dedicated to being as organic as possible, all thier meats are humanely raised and free from all nitrates and antibiotics. Juices are cold pressed to order using the freshest ingredients in unique and healthful flavor combinations.

611 Sun Valley Rd., Ketchum. 208.420.8418.

BIG BELLY DELI

Homemade soups, salads, and a variety of great sandwiches. Serving the Valley for over 15 years and rated #1 Best Sandwich Deli. Let us prove it, and your belly will thank you.

171 N. Main St., Hailey. 208.788.2411.

BIGWOOD BREAD BAKERY & CAFÉ

Visit us at one of our spectacular locations, both featuring beautiful outdoor views, fantastic food

and outstanding service. Baking locally in Sun Valley since 1997 using only the most wholesome ingredients from sustainable sources. Fresh and homemade is how we do it!

271 Northwood Way, Ketchum. 208.726.2035.

BLACK OWL CAFÉ

Locally roasted, custom blended coffee brewed to perfection. Large selection of loose-leaf tea. Home-baked scones, muffins and breads. Breakfast and lunch.

208 N. River St., Hailey. 208.928.6200.

CAFÉ DELLA

Café, bakery, and market located in the heart of Hailey. Our market offers prepared dinners to-go, housemade provisions, grocery essentials, local produce, dairy, meats, fish, beer and wine. Stop in to shop our daily “Dinner Tonight” offerings and more, or order from our weekly dinner and grocery menu online for pickup.

103 S. Main St., Hailey. 208.913.0263.

THE CHOCOLATE FOUNDRY

No matter how sophisticated your sweet tooth, The Chocolate Foundry is a one-stop sweets adn snack shop that will satisfy any craving. Fudge, Jelly Belly candies, licorice, soft-serve ice cream and a fun selection of novelties are a hit with kids, and grown-up will also love fine chocolates and a selection of frosty floats, milkshakes and OMGinducing sundaes.

Sun Valley Resort, Sun Valley. 208.622.2147

DEVOTO GELATO

Offering rich and mouth-watering gelato, milkshakes and empanadas. Also serving a selection of boba tea, coffee, and sweet treats and baked goods—all handmade from scratch.

126 S. River St. A-8, Hailey. 208.928.4814

GALENA LODGE

The perfect place for a summer or winter outing. Enjoy one of the carefully maintained trail loops (on

foot or bike in the summer, or on Nordic skis when the snow flies), before sitting down for a handcrafted lunch using the freshest seasonal ingredients. Call or check their website for special dinner events and offerings, like their Galena Full Moon Dinners. 15187 State Hwy. 75, Ketchum. 208.726.4010.

GRETCHEN’S

Adjacent to the Sun Valley Lodge lobby, Gretchen’s Restaurant welcomes you with a relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner and full bar service.

Sun Valley Lodge, Sun Valley. 208.622.2144.

HAILEY COFFEE COMPANY

Our café serves delicious gourmet espresso drinks and fresh-baked goods from our on-site bakery. All of our coffees are fresh roasted in Hailey and our baked goods are served fresh from the oven. 219 S. Main St., Hailey. 208.788.8482.

HANGAR BREAD

Hangar Bread is a neighborhood bakery, specializing in long-fermented sourdough breads. They also make baguettes, bagels, rolls ciabbatta, cinnamon rolls, pizzas, cookies and sandwiches. Open Mon-Fri.

111 N. 1st Ave., Ste. #1., Hailey.

HANK & SYLVIE’S

We are a bakery, floral design and gift shop offering fresh-baked sweets, custom cakes, flowers, and an array of unique gifts.

580 4th St. East, Ketchum, 208.726.0115; 91 E. Croy St., Hailey, 208.928.4088.

JAVA COFFEE AND CAFÉ

Truly a great coffeehouse! Baking from scratch daily. Serving the finest Fair Trade and organic coffees. Sound like a local and order the “Dirty Hippie Burrito” and a “Bowl of Soul.”

191 4th St. W., Ketchum, 208.726.2882; 111 N. 1st Ave., Hailey, 208.788.2297.

KONDITOREI

Lunch dishes range from pumpkin spaetzle with sausage and apples to roasted chicken crepes with spinach and spicy Liptauer cheese. The café offers a full complement of artisanal coffee and hot chocolate drinks, plus house-baked European pastries.

Sun Valley Resort, Sun Valley. 208.622.2235.

THE KNEADERY

The Kneadery combines wholesome fresh food with a rustic Idaho atmosphere. All meals start with the freshest ingredients: locally baked organic breads, farm-fresh, cage-free eggs,

seasonal fruit and top-quality meats. 260 Leadville Ave. North, Ketchum. 208.726.9462

MAUDE’S COFFEE & CLOTHES

Maude’s is a coffee shop and a clothing store that serves traditional espresso, small eats, and is a purveyor of unique vintage contemporary clothing for women and men. 391 Walnut Ave., Ketchum. 208.726.6413.

NOURISHME

Julie Johnson opened NourishMe in June 2010 in order to bring her love of nutrition and local food to the community in which she lived. This light-filled store on Main Street in Ketchum features everything from seasonal produce and bulk seeds, nuts and fruits, to a wide variety of supplements, homemade sandwiches, salads and soups, wellness products, gluten-free foods and organic cosmetics.

151 Main St., Ketchum. 208.928.7604.

RASBERRYS

Callie and Maeme Rasberry believe all the senses must be involved in meal preparation; therefore, the menu is eclectic, just like the chefs, with dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients when available and their own take on comfort and ethnic food. 411 Building, 5th St., Ketchum. 208.726.0606.

SALT ‘N PEPPER SANDWICH SHOP

Best sandwiches in town! Enjoy a perfectly packed breakfast burrito, fresh salads, the locals favorite “Bacado” (house roasted turkey, bacon, Swiss, avocado), and a wonderful lineup of homemade soups—all served with fresh ingredients and a warm chocolate chip cookie.

14 E. Croy St., Hailey. 208.788.8844.

SHORTY’S DINER

Established in 1996, Shorty’s is a family-owned business that serves great food with exceptional customer service. Step out of the present and back into the 50s, with genuine, functioning old school jukeboxes which add an extra touch of authenticity and nostalgia to this retro American Diner experience. Open every day. Serving breakfast All Day.

126 S. River St. A-2, Hailey. 208.578.1293

SMILEY CREEK LODGE

Smiley Creek Lodge is located near the headwaters of the Salmon River at the top of the Sawtooth Valley, 37 miles north of Ketchum/Sun Valley. A full restaurant serves delicious homestyle food for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

16546 N. Hwy. 75, Sawtooth City (over Galena Summit). smileycreeklodge.com.

THE WYLDE BEET

Offering a 100% plant-based menu, designed with the mission of making healthy and sustainable dining more available to everyone, Wylde Beet creates mindful eats that taste good, makes you feel great and helps us tread a little more mindfully.

400 N. Main St. Hailey. 208.913.0087

DELIS

ATKINSONS’ MARKETS

Atkinsons’ Markets, serving you and your family at our three locations in the Wood River Valley with deli sandwiches made to order, hot soups, graband-go meals and desserts, and a full deli case of freshly made main dishes and sides.

451 E. 4th St., Ketchum, 208.726.2681; 93 E. Croy St., Hailey, 208.788.2294; 757 N. Main St., Bellevue, 208.788.7788.

JOHNNY G’S SUB SHACK

Serving the best subs in the Great State of Idaho!

Family owned and operated since 1998, and serving up hot subs like the popular “5B” (turkey, bacon, cream cheese, mayo, lettuce, tomato) or the “Mama Sass’s Meatball” (Italian meatballs, marinara, parmesan). Homemade soups, salads, smoothies and build-your-own round out a solid menu of delicious sandwiches.

371 Washington Ave., Ketchum. 208.725.7827.

SALTED SPRIG

Salted Sprig specializes in fresh, thoughtful and inventive meals that satisfy the needs of all palates at your table—offering delicious and healthy glutenfree, dairy-free, vegan or nut-free options to satisfy every dietary need. The talented team of chefs and bakers at Salted Sprig can also work to create the perfect menu for all of your events small and large. Reach out to see how they can help plan your event!

220 East Ave., Ketchum. 208.957.3092

WRAPCITY

Wrapcity serves up creative wraps and salads, homemade soups, and unique quesadillas. Wrapcity

also serves breakfast wraps all day with special breakfast creations on Saturdays and Sundays.

180 Main St., S., Ketchum. 208.727.6766.

PUBS, GRILLS, & LOUNGES

APPLE’S BAR & GRILL

For 34 years, Apple’s Bar & Grill has been a popular spot for lunch and aprés-ski—and it’s now open year-round for lunch and dinner! At the base of Baldy near Warm Springs Lodge, the restaurant is known for mouthwatering grub and gathering with good friends.

205 Picabo St., Ketchum. 208.726.7067.

THE BURGER GRILL

A family-friendly restaurant with exceptional service and food, the Ketchum Burger Grill has been providing loyal customers with the best burgers, lobster bisque, soups and chowders in town since 1995!

102 N.Main St., Ketchum. 208.726.7733.

GRUMPY’S

Grumpy’s is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. We are a little hard to find, but not hard to find out about. 860 Warm Springs Rd., Ketchum. No phone.

LA CAB SPORTS BAR

Enjoy the neighborhood-tavern feel of La Cab Sports Bar while dining on local favorites that include a buffalo chicken sandwich, jalapeño poppers, wings, burgers and fish and chips.

107 Hwy. 75, Hailey. 208.788.5048.

LEFTY’S BAR & GRILL

Lefty’s has a great casual dining menu, including killer burgers served on fresh-baked bread, monster hot sandwiches, wings, salads and the house specialty, fresh-cut French fries. And the outdoor deck can’t be beat in the summer!

231 6th St. East, Ketchum. 208.726.2744.

LIMELIGHT LOUNGE

When late afternoon hits, we swing our doors wide open for guests and locals to dig into our friendly après food and drink specials. Our full dinner menu is available evenings in the Lounge, for in-room dining, or take-out.

151 South Main St., Ketchum. 208.726.0888.

MAHONEY’S BAR & GRILL

Mahoney’s offers a full bar, a terrific patio that’s just a short stroll from Bellevue’s Howard Preserve and a tasty menu featuring their famous “Juicy Lucy” cheese-filled, grilled-onion-topped hamburger.

104 S. Main St., Bellevue. 208.788.4449.

POWER HOUSE

Serving locally-raised Wagyu beef burgers, blackened Ahi sandwiches and tacos, hand-cut fries, and organic salads with a wealth of beers on tap.

502 N. Main St., Hailey. 208.788.9184

SAWTOOTH BREWERY

25 taps with beer, wine, cider, and kombucha on tap! Join us for the game on one of our big-screen TVs. We fill growlers, crowlers, and have kegs, bottles, and cans to go! Two locations—Hailey and Ketchum—with seasonal outdoor seating at both spots.

631 Warm Springs Rd., Ketchum. 208.726.6803; 110 N. River St., Hailey. 208.788.3213.

ROOTS WINE BAR & BOTTLE SHOP

Roots offers a chic and cozy space to explore wine and food. The menu is geared toward lunch and happy hour snacking, with an array of cheese and charcuterie boards, snacks and small plates.

122 S.Main St., Hailey. 208.928.4376.

SCOUT WINE & CHEESE

Scout is a celebration of good wine, good food and community. Their extensive wine list is accompanied by a selection of beer and nonalcoholic drinks, as well as thoughtful bar snacks, charcuterie boards ad housemade dishes to share. Everything is produced in-house using the best seasonal ingredients sourced locally.

315 S. Main St., Hailey. 208.788.0772

210 2nd Ave. S., Twin Falls. 208.733.3885

TNT / TAP ROOM

TNT / Tap Room is a craft beer and wine bar focusing on organic, sustainable and biodynamic wines, with 12 rotating taps of independent craft beer. We’re located in a piece of Ketchum history in the dynamite shed.

271 Sun Valley Road E., Ketchum.

VILLAGE STATION

Enjoy a wide selection of cocktails and craft beer on tap, as well as a crowd-pleasing menu of classic American favorites: hearty cheeseburgers, chicken wings, pizza and familystyle salads.

Sun Valley Village, Sun Valley. 208.622.2143.

WARFIELD DISTILLERY & BREWERY

The ever-changing menu brings you the best provisions from across the Northwest in our comfortable neighborhood pub setting. The best summer deck in town with fire pits and rocking chairs for comfort and conversation.

280 N. Main St., Ketchum. 208.726.2739.

WHISKEY’S ON MAIN

360 East Ave., Ketchum. 208.928.4031.

SUN VALLEY WINE CO.

Ketchum’s original wine bar is the place to go for lunch, an afternoon break, happy hour, après ski, or to meet up with friends. The owners are passionate about wine, carrying over 1,000 bottles of hand-curated wines to satisfy wine enthusiasts of every type, and a handcrafted selection of large and small plates rounds out a delectable, seasonal menu.

360 Leadville Ave., Ketchum. 208.726.2442.

THE CELLAR PUB

From traditional pub fare such as buffalo burgers or fish & chips to original dishes such as our flat-iron steak salad, we have something for everyone in your party. We have a full bar and feature a great selection of draft beer and fine wines.

400 Sun Valley Rd., Ketchum. 208.622.3832.

THE SMOKEY BONE BBQ

Featuring award-winning, authentic barbecue right here in Idaho, along with a selection of mouthwatering sides to fill up any plate.

A historic venue and sports bar serving upscale pub fare that offers a lively and casual atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. Located in the heart of downtown Ketchum, Whiskey’s boasts a wide selection of brews including local craft brews, as well as a full bar with a variety of spirits and cocktails.

251 N. Main St., Ketchum. 208.620.5496.

INDIAN

SAFFRON INDIAN CUISINE

Saffron draws its inspiration from the vibrancy of the culture, art, and innovative spirit of authentic Indian cuisine, featuring seasonal dishes that are an interpretation of customary Indian cuisine using international techniques.

230 Walnut Ave., Ketchum. 208.913.0609.

MEXICAN/SOUTH AMERICAN

CHAPALITAS GRILL

A family Mexican restaurant serving authentic dishes, including specialties such as pollo a la chapala, chicken carnitas, and huevos con chorizo. 200 S. Main St., Hailey. 208.928.7306.

DESPO’S

Despo’s is committed to authentic, delicious Mexican dishes that respect your desire for a healthy meal without compromising flavor. 211 4th St. E., Ketchum. 208.726.3068.

JHony’s peruvian

Authentic Peruvian cuisine served in a familyfriendly atmosphere. La vida mas feliz! 200 S. Main St., Hailey. 208.928.7929.

KB’S

This cheerful, laid-back burrito joint serves delicious fish tacos and offers a make-your-own burrito, with a choice of 27 fillings.

460 Sun Valley Rd., Ketchum. 208.928.6955; 121 N. Main St., Hailey. 208.788.7217.

LA CABAÑITA MEX

Only one way to put it…best authentic Mexican food in town. The town’s hidden gem that is truly a favorite.

116 S. Main St., Hailey. 208.788.1255; 160 W. 5th St., Ketchum. 208.725.5001; 745 N. Main St., Bellevue. 208.928.7550.

LAGO AZUL

Enjoy true Mexican food in downtown Hailey. Pollo rancherito, carne asada and “Sandy” tacos are house specialties not to be missed. 14 W. Croy St., Hailey. 208.578.1700.

SERVA PERUVIAN CUISINE

Serva Peruvian Cuisine is all about simple clean ingredients and flavor using the freshest quality ingredients seasonally. Step inside and experience a fusion of Peruvian and American food. Traditional recipes from Rodolfo Serva’s family appear alongside the unique creations of Chef Edgar for an upscale Peruvian dining experience. Now in two locations!

103 S. Main St., Hailey. 208.928.6202 700 N. Main St., Ketchum. 208.928.4332.

MEDITERRANEAN/ITALIAN/PIZZA

AROMA RESTAURANT

Proprietor Juan Flores of Aroma serves lunch and dinner weekly, with daily rotating specials featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and gourmet European specialties. 520 Second St., E., Ketchum. 208.726.6427.

ENOTECA

Ketchum’s newest gastronomic addition, with its upscale pizzeria and wine bar. Enoteca has a plethora of small plates to choose from. 300 N. Main St., Ketchum. 208.928.6280.

ROMINNA’S

Since 2013, we have been offering contemporary Italian cuisine prepared to the highest standards. Our premium wine selection includes more than 150 wines to pair with any course.

580 Washington St., Ketchum. 208.726.6961.

SMOKY MOUNTAIN PIZZERIA & GRILL

Our fresh, handcrafted food is what brings people in, and our service is what keeps them coming back for more. We pride ourselves on creating a “nourishing and memorable neighborhood experience that people love!”

200 Sun Valley Rd., Ketchum. 208.622.5625.

TWO TALL PIZZERIA

Outstanding Pizza with great mountain vibes. Local family-owned restaurant focusing on crazy good pizza, salads, and appetizers. Dedicated to using the best ingredients from our true Italian San Marzano tomatoes, housemade sausage, freshest produce available, our touch is in everything we offer. Great beer and wine selection to fill every need. Stop in and see if you are Tall enough for a free pie!

121 N. Main St., Hailey 208.913.0523.

WISEGUY PIZZA PIE

Serving New York-style, hand-tossed pizzas topped with whole-milk mozzarella, and baked to perfection in our stone deck ovens. Large selection of local and regional bottled and draft beer.

460 Sun Valley Rd., Ketchum, 208.726.0737; and 411 N. Main St., Hailey 208.788.8688.

ASIAN/SUSHI

DANG’S THAI CUISINE

Dang’s offers a wide selection of popular dishes ranging from sushi, green papaya salad, pad thai, and their famous green curry with chicken! Highly recommended as an affordable, flavorful and fun experience in Hailey!

310 N. Main St., Hailey. 208.928.7111.

CHINA PANDA

Informal Chinese restaurant dishing up familiar fare, including vegetarian options, since 1987. 515 East Ave., Hailey. 208.726.3591

IDA THAI

Enjoy authentic Thai cuisine in a log cabin with views of Bald Mountain. With specials such as tender slow cooked Lamb Shank served in a Massaman curry, Shrimp in a Ceramic Pot served on top clear vermicelli noodles and Fresh Rolls with

housemade peanut sauce, Ida Thai is your place to celebrate a special occasion, relax after a day on the mountain, or order online.

310 S. Main St., Ketchum. 208.726-7155

MR. DEE

Hailey’s newest sushi-seafood-steak and martini bar. Serving Asian fusion, sushi, steak and seafood selections. A full bar with handcrafted cocktails and lounge for drinks you can’t put down.

416 N. Main St., Hailey.

RAMEN COWBOY

“The Ramen Place,” Ramen Cowboy is a local’s take on traditional Japenese noodle soup, serving from-scratch ramen using all locally sourced ingredients, handmade noodles and their 18-hour authentic Tonkotsu broth! 640 N. Main St., Ketchum. 208.309.3493.

RICKSHAW

Serving “ethnic street foods,” inspired by the flavors and foods in locales such as Thailand, Vietnam, China, and Indonesia. .

460 N. Washington Ave., Ketchum. 208.726.8481.

SUSHI ON SECOND

Sushi on Second is the Valley’s oldest sushi restaurant. But don’t let age fool you. A talented crew of Sushi Chefs are in the center and delight in creating dishes that are as appetizing to look at as they are to eat. 260 Second St., Ketchum. 208.726.5181.

YOIMI SUSHI & HIBACHI

Japanese Steak House serving fresh Hibachi-style Chicken, Steak, Shrimp, Scallop and Salmon grilled fresh to order with mixed vegetables, and fresh rice and fried rice. Sushi that is mouth watering with fried and fresh sushi rolls, along with Nigiri and Sashimi. 745 N. Main St., Suite B, Belleue. 208.751.1497.

REGIONAL NORTHWEST

COOKBOOK

This cozy place was built in 1932 as a church and then later on was an architect’s office, daycare, butcher shop, BBQ restaurant and bakery. Vita and Burke Smith fell in love with this cute building and decided to give it a new life.

271 7th St. East, Ketchum. 208.720.3260.

CUTTHROAT CLUB

Bellevue’s Cutthroat Club highlights the best Wood River Valley and Idaho has to offer by partnering with area farmers and producers.

200 S. Main St., Bellevue.. 208.913.0285.

DUCHIN LOUNGE

All new and inviting, this legendary lounge serves up cocktails, imported beer and an extensive wine list. Now, you can also duck in for a quick bite from our lounge menu.

Sun Valley Lodge. 208.622.2145.

GRILL AT KNOB HILL

The environment at the Knob Hill Inn is casual and comfortable, yet sophisticated, with distinctively Northwest cuisine, and a variety of American and European classics. A top local favorite!

960 N. Main St., Ketchum. 208.726.8004.

KETCHUM GRILL

For over 30 years (since 1991), Ketchum Grill has brought your dining experience to the highest gastronomical level, and the best Idaho has to offer. 520 East Ave., Ketchum. 208.726.4660.

ROUNDHOUSE

Perched midway up Bald Mountain on the River Run side, the Roundhouse is a culinary destination not to be missed. Serviced by the Roundhouse Gondola, the restaurant offers spectacular views of the Valley. Bald Mountain, Ketchum. 208.622.2012.

SUN VALLEY CLUB

Among the most popular places in Sun Valley to eat, drink and relax, the wraparound terrace at Sun Valley Club offers stunning views of Bald Mountain, Dollar Mountain and the golf course (summer) or Nordic trails (winter). The Sun Valley Club brings exciting, contemporary dishes that are focused on local ingredients.

1 Trail Creek Rd., Sun Valley. 208.622.2919.

THE COVEY

Offering an intimate ambiance with an alwaysevolving menu. The relaxed atmosphere is a place to enjoy good friends, fine wine, and delicious meals. 520 Washington Ave., Ketchum. 208.726.3663.

THE PIONEER SALOON

The Pioneer Saloon, renowned for perfectly aged, tender and flavorful beef, is typical of an earlier Idaho where ore wagons rattled down Main Street and business was done with a handshake and a drink. Natural woods, mounted game, and period firearms help recreate an authentic saloon atmosphere. 320 N. Main St., Ketchum. 208.726.3139.

THE RAM

Sun Valley’s original restaurant, The Ram has been warming and welcoming diners since 1937. Travel back in time with the nightly “Heritage Menu”—a series of historic dishes such as pork tenderloin schnitzel, Hungarian goulash, and the famous Ram fondue. Located at the Sun Valley Inn. 208.622.2225.

THE SAWTOOTH CLUB

Always busy with a great mix of locals and visitors, The Sawtooth Club offers a unique blend of American steakhouse classics, fresh seafood, wild game, unique pasta dishes and much more. Many entrées are cooked over the live, mesquite-wood fire, and all are prepared with a singular creative flair. The award-winning wine list offers a diverse selection of reasonably priced wines to compliment any of the delicious menu offerings.

231 Main St S., Ketchum, ID 208.726.5233

TUNDRA

TUNDRA Restaurant in Hailey is a hip place serving creative, freshly made food, beer, wine and bubbles. We strive to provide the best service, best food and an unique and fun experience! Reservations can be made online at tundrahailey.com. 516 N. Main St., Hailey. 208.928.4121.

TRAIL CREEK CABIN

Sun Valley’s destination for romantic dining in a rustic, western atmosphere. Originally built in 1937, the magic of this mountain-style log cabin-turned restaurant lies in the rustic charm, hearty menu, sweeping views adn the sleigh ride through a winter wonderland to get there. Reservations required.

2 Miles North of Sun Valley Resort, Sun Valley. 208.622.2800.

VINTAGE

A favorite of the locals, chef Rodrigo Herrera is tuned into the best of the season’s offerings. With a lovely ambiance, both inside and seasonally outside, Vintage offers a dining experience like one would have in France: leisurely, lively, and without pretension. 231 Leadville Ave.,Ketchum. 208.726.9595.

TWIN FALLS / BOISE

ELEVATION 486

Award-winning restaurant, Elevation 486 is perched 486 vertical feet above the beautiful Snake River. Voted Idaho’s “Best Fine Dining Restaurant” in 2022, Elevation 486 is a charming and modern bistro serving up eclectic new-American cuisine with global influences. The dining area and patio terrace offer stunning views of the Snake River Canyon, the Perrine Bridge and the surrounding Magic Valley region.

195 River Vista Place, Twin Falls. 208.737.0486.

KB’S

This cheerful, laid-back burrito joint serves delicious fish tacos and offers a make-your-own burrito, with a choice of 27 fillings.

2794 S. Eagle Rd., Suite 600, Eagle. 208.629.8553; 616 N. Third St., McCall. 208.634.5500. 1520 Fillmore St., Twin Falls. 208.733.5194

MILNER’S GATE

Milner’s Gate is an Idaho craft brewery and restaurant located in a historic brick building in the heart of Twin Falls. The carefully chosen menu features “creative interpretations of classic American bistro and pub fare” along with a full bar featuring craft cocktails.

205 Shoshone St. N., Twin Falls. 208.293.8250.

Dining & Menu

showcases feature

GRETCHEN’S GOLD

America’s First Lady of alpine ski racing, Gretchen Fraser’s legacy permeates our town. You could have dinner at Gretchen’s in the Sun Valley Lodge or you might ski down “Gretchen’s Gold”—named in honor of her 1948 Olympic slalom victory. Born in Tacoma, Washington, and trained by Otto Lang, she traveled to Sun Valley in 1938 to compete in the second Harriman Cup. She was the first American to win an Olympic medal in alpine skiing during the games in St. Moritz, Switzerland in ’48—gold in the slalom and silver in the combined event. In light of the Alpine World Cup Finals this March, we honor Fraser, who trained here in our town and eventually retired here—an active but quiet member of our community.

Sun Valley Magazine | Winter 2024-2025

CABIN

LEGACY RANCH at

contents // features

88 WORLD CLASS

104

NIGHTLIFE AT THE TOP

SUN

online // sunvalleymag.com

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