Reposted from April 5, with permission from Dead Horse March and Catie.
A week or so ago, I lost the battle with my jelly legs and ringing ears. Inside the most packed, sweaty Neurolux I’ve seen in my limited 21+ lifespan, even the sweet sound of the Cave Singers couldn’t keep me from fleeing to topple into bed by eleven o’clock on the closing night of Boise‘s inaugural Treefort Music Fest. Sitting on a sparsely populated, sunny Sunday Neurolux patio now, I reflect. Wristbands have been shed, the unmarked van to car ratio has evened out, and the wait for oatmeal at Big City Coffee this Saturday was fifteen minutes instead of fifty. As much as I enjoy my own private Idaho most of the time, I’m not exactly glad to see Treefort go. The bustle that populated my usual stomping grounds seemed to belong in a way I wasn’t expecting. There is a reason we Boiseans choose to live here, and for a few days, several hundred extra people had the opportunity to figure it out.
There is often talk, late at night, in the darkness of (until recently) smoke-filled basement bars, of Boise and its potential, of its emerging as a center for creative folk. This isn’t a new idea, but recently it feels like one that’s becoming much more concrete. When I first got wind of Treefort in October of last year, I thought, “Please, oh please, oh please, be awesome.” There was plenty of fear that it would turn out similarly to previous attempts, portraying Boise, yet again, as a self-limiting toddler city. Contrarily, and I have done my best not to approach this as a Boise-loving, hometown-pride-touting maniac, Treefort easily surpassed my hopes and not only helped cement Boise into the minds of newcomers, but did so with prowess unexpected. Treefort, from the perspective of musicians and attendees alike, was a classy festival. Artists were treated like your grandma’s house guests with free bike rentals and hotel rooms. It felt as though all of Boise, including the weather, went out of its way to ensure a resounding nod of approval. So, we want you to like us. Maybe we try too hard. We’re like that here – nice, genuine, hospitable – and we’re not apologizing for it.
Oh, and the music. Yeah, that was okay too. The conflicted daze of choosing whether to see Built to Spill or Lemolo, Delicate Steve or Pickwick, and AU, Red Hands Black Feet or Solomon’s Hollow? Now, that’s the mark of a good festival. Highlights? This is a music blog after all . . .
Best new/newly realized finds: Learning Team, Solomon’s Hollow, Snake Rattle Rattle Snake
The “emerging artist” bent of Treefort fits Boise’s present tense well. And while many of the artists mentioned here are hardly “emerging,” I am eager to watch them, this festival, and Boise itself find energy and growth in each other.
– Catie
By Daniel Frandson, Idaho student, actor and guest blogger
The first annual Sun Valley Film Festival successfully got up and running on Thursday, March 15, 2012. Truly a great triumph, this festival brought film and the arts to a new level.
Some of the new independent films featured were, “Brooklyn Brothers Beat the Best”, “LUV”, “War Elephants”, “Soda Springs” and “Magic Valley”. Some of the shorts included, “Cabby”, “Star Waiters”, “Grandma Must Get Dry” and “Crawlspace”.
In celebration of a weekend of accomplishment, an award party was held in the Town Square. The “Vision Award” was presented to Heather Rae for “Magic Valley”. Jaffe Zinn was awarded the “Gem State Award” and the “One in a Million Award” for ‘Magic Valley”. “War Elephants” also received a “One in a Million Award’ and “Soda Springs” was granted the “Audience Award”.
The first Sun Valley Film Festival was very successful and achieved great praise from many people.
Actor’s Opinion:
By Daniel Frandson
The Sun Valley Film Festival was a great success and I think it will gain popularity in the years to come.
Being able to meet the directors and the producers of the films was very interesting and also a great experience. From an actor’s standpoint, it was beneficial to get feedback during the Question and Answer sessions.
All the volunteers and those who worked the festival were very considerate, kind and helpful. The filmmakers and the audience were very gracious.
The independent movies were very inspiring films because the plotlines were rarely repetitive, they worked with very low budgets and the directors always seemed genuinely concerned about the topics they were addressing.
Lodging at the Tamarack Lodge was great and even had pool. The scenery, as well as the snow, was beautiful. The only downside was there was very little food available before 4:30 p.m. or after 10:00 p.m. Luckily, The Pioneer Saloon went out of their way to accommodate us by keeping the kitchen open after closing.
The Sun Valley Film Festival was a wonderful experience – an experience of a lifetime – and I hope to attend many more. I thank Jaffe Zinn, Heather Rae and Laura Mehlhaff for giving me the opportunity to take part in this event.
Drinking beer at an Irish pub is almost synonymous with St. Patrick’s Day; while microbreweries have become the trendy thing in the Northwest.
Historic Wallace, with its roots as a rough and tumble mining town with plenty of booze and brothels, has a long history of producing beer. In fact, in 1910 the mayor ordered the town to only drink beer after a major fire tainted the water supply. Paying homage to the town’s past is an assortment of smooth, balanced micro-brews from the Wallace Brewing Company.
The brewery produces beers that are named to reflect Wallace’s outlaw history:
Rock Head Lager: American standard, brewed with Idaho Pilsner malted barley and rice making an undemanding, refreshing beer. Lightly hopped with Cascade hops for low bitterness.
Dirty Blond Pale Ale: American Pale Ale, brewed to be slightly less malty, but conspicuously hoppy. The aromatic hops are grown here in the historic Silver Valley making it slightly more dirty than blonde.
Redlight Lager: Red Honey Wheat Lager brewed with pale malt, white wheat and sweet honey malt for the dark color. There’s no cloudiness in this filtered lager, just a deep sensuous red color and unique flavor.
Jackleg Stout: Cream Stout evolved from Irish Porters. Jackleg is smooth and as dark as the underground. The roasted coffee flavor and aroma come from chocolate and debittered black malts.
Wallace Honeys: The little sister to the Red Light. A filtered honey wheat ale without cloudiness. Brewed with pale malt, white wheat and honey malt for a satiny-sweet unique taste.
Vindicator IPA: Named after the Vindicator mine in the Silver Valley, it is their biggest beer to date. A refreshingly mild flowery start with a nice rich, malty sweetness that balances the citrusy hop finish.
Learn more at Wallace Brewing and Visit Idaho for a list of microbreweries.
More St. Patrick Day Festivities:
March 15 @ 6:30pm: Irish Band Dervish to perform in Hailey at Liberty Theater; getting you ready for St. Patrick’s Day.
March 17: 7th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celebration. This year’s theme is “A Day in the Life of a Leprechaun.” Downtown Coeur d’Alene. Parade starts at 4 pm.
March 17: Want to know where to find the bag pipers in Boise on St. Patty’s Day? Here’s the full schedule.
March 17: St. Patrick’s Day Fun Run at Julia Davis Park, Boise.
Many Idaho communities will have a SPD parade… see Visit Idaho events for more info.
PS: If your idea of “green beer” involves food coloring and shamrocks, it’s time to think again. Lower your carbon footprint and support the local economy by drinking local beer. Blog posting from the Nature Conservancy along with Brewery Map.
When year-round recreation meets picturesque views, you’ve arrived in Stanley, Idaho. This is Sawtooth Mountain country, Stanley’s most deserved accolade.
As a last chance opportunity to vacation before the next semester of school began, Stanley was our trip of choice for fresh powder, outdoor recreation and evenings of pleasant relaxation. The roads were perfectly clear as we drove up Highway 21. When a front wheel drive Toyota can make it up to Stanley in mid January, I give my thanks to the local world-class experts in snow plowing (there has to be a 4-year degree for that)!
My girlfriend and I arrived at the Sawtooth Hotel around 3:00 pm. Constructed in 1931, this vintage log cabin with a priceless view of the Sawtooth Mountains, had the most harmonious feeling. On the first floor, hand-built tables and chairs set the stage for an authentic getaway. On the second floor, we found small rooms with old fashioned amenities that make you feel like you are spending the night at grandma’s house. During the winter, the Sawtooth Hotel is open Friday through Sunday for meals. Expect to see mountain aficionados bundled up in ski pants, Salomon boots and Patagonia jackets stopping by for hot food and a cold drink after a long day of skiing.
As the sun set, we made our way up Wall Street in downtown Stanley and walked along the groomed cross country ski and snowmobile trails. The sun set behind the Sawtooth Mountains, lighting the white snow caps with a fiery glow, like a volcano was about to erupt.
The next morning we set our sights on the pristine cross country ski trails at Alturas Lake just 20 short miles south of Stanley. Beautiful blue skies, groomed trails and untouched snow (for the backcountry folk) made for an exemplary time. Multiple maps allow plenty of variety and direction throughout the trail system. Our four-hour, 13 kilometer cross country adventure afforded immaculate views and world class photo opportunities, and won’t soon be forgotten.
On our way back from Alturas Lake we stopped along Highway 75 at Red Fish Lake. The road was closed, but that didn’t stop us. With snowshoes on and a camera across my shoulder, we walked the short mile to Little Red Fish Lake. We cut
through what looked like an abandoned campsite (campsites are closed in the winter) and just as we arrived at the lake, the clouds dispersed as the sun illuminated the sky, exposing the mountains as though hidden behind large castle walls for hundreds of years.
Rounding out our perfect day with the perfect evening, we returned to the Sawtooth Hotel for a refreshing brew and signature burger that really hit the spot. The next time you’re looking for a recreational paradise with beautiful sights, stop in Stanley to satisfy your outdoor cravings.
1) Sweetheart Sunset Dinner Cruise on Lake Coeur d’Alene
A romantic dinner on the lake that includes prime rib, chicken piccata, Caesar salad, au gratin potatoes, fresh fruit and a special Valentine’s dessert, served with a complimentary bottle of champagne.
Saturday, February 11th | 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Tuesday, February 14th | 6:30 – 8:00 pm
2) Wine Tasting and Chocolate Pairing at Sawtooth Winery
Enjoy an array of Sawtooth Winery’s wine paired with
The “Chocolat” Bar’s chocolates, for a most enjoyable taste treat.
Saturday, February 11 |12:00pm to 5:00pm
Sunday February 12 | 12:00pm to 5:00pm
3) Stay & Spa – Mountain Decadence at Shore Lodge in McCall
Steal away to Shore Lodge with the one you love. Shore Lodge has prepared the perfect evening of decadence for you and yours. Decadence package includes: One-night stay in a Lake View Suite; Two one-hour spa treatments of your choice at The Cove, an authentic McCall Spa; in-room champagne and strawberries nightcap.
Be forewarned! The Decadence package is stronger than Love Potion #9. Plan accordingly.
4) Romance Package at Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg
Luxurious condo, chilled champagne or huckleberry wine, two complimentary wine glasses, bath salts for the tub, souvenir candle and sweetheart chocolates. Deluxe romance package includes his and her massage and dinner for two at Noah’s Canteen.
5) Celebrate with your Valentine in Sun Valley
Forever Plaid will serenade your sweetheart in the Boiler Room.
Swing back through time to the 1950’s with the Plaids as they revive close-harmony hits such as
Moments to Remember, Crazy ‘Bout Ya Baby, and Love is a Many-Spendored Thing!
Tuesday, February 14 | 7: 30 pm
Cocktails at fire pit 2 hours before show time
6) Trinity on the Beach in Sandpoint
Enjoy live acoustic music, along with food and drink specials.
Tuesday, February 14 | 5:00 – 8:00 pm
7) His & Hers Valentine Special at Hotel 43 in Boise
Spoil each other this Valentine’s Day with a special night .
You will be treated to two nights in a Capitol level room, “Hers” night is tickets for two on Friday, February 17th to La Bohme presented by Opera Idaho plus “His” night tickets for two on Saturday night to the Idaho Stampede basketball game. To top it off, enjoy breakfast for two on both Saturday and Sunday from the Metro Café. Valet parking for two nights, plus special Hotel 43 Valentines treats will be waiting for you upon arrival.
8) The Whole Ski Bang!
Skiing, pampering and tasty treats, this getaway to Aura Soma Lava Hot Springs in eastern Idaho promises quality couple time and a lot more! The Whole Ski Bang! package for two includes: a two night stay at Aura Soma Lava Hot Springs; a day of skiing at Pebble Creek Ski Area; a half hour of facilitated stretching and sports massage, day passes for soaking in the hot springs pools, soothing massages after a day on the slopes; Grounds for Change brand organic coffee, Chocolove chocolate bars, bottled water; chilled champagne or cider and more!
9) Inn-Credible Idaho!
Seeking a bed & breakfast that is intimate, romantic or rustic? Browse through “Inn-Credible Idaho” to find the accommodations that are right for you and your valentine!
10) Sweet to Spicy at the Idaho Botanical Gardens in Boise
Mustard is the king of condiments. From Dijon, France to Boise, Idaho and from sweet to spicy, the possibilities are endless. Join Sylvie Ryan to discover the wonders of cooking with mustard. Sample different mustards, including local products, and prepare a few simple recipes that are sure to bring sweet and spicy inspiration to your Valentine’s Day Feast!
Thursday, February 9 | 6:30 p.m.
11) “The Chocolate Affair” in Downtown Coeur d’Alene
The sweetest ‘Walk’ of the year ~ for the chocoholic. Join in the tasting.
Friday, February 10th | 5:00 – 8:00 pm.
12) Sweetheart’s Weekend at Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg
Speed dating session on chair 3 and cupcake tasting paired with wines from Cupcake Winery.
Saturday, February 11
13) Oh Fudge! Make your Valentine’s Day even sweeter with this decadent fudge.
Idaho’s “Black Canyon Fudge” makes mouthwatering sweets with real cream and butter.
As noted in an earlier post, I had the opportunity to spend a few days recreating in and around Wallace in northern Idaho, where much of the city is on the National Register of Historic Places. Outdoor recreation is everywhere, but I would be remiss if I overlooked Wallace’s downtown amenities.
As a buy-local kind of guy, I look forward to the local digs that only small towns can offer.
To my pleasant surprise, there are two outstanding breweries in Wallace. Walking along the well-known Bank Street, just down the road from the center of the universe, I noticed large brew kettles (coppers as they say in the “biz”) through the glass windows.
Wallace Brewery is a three year old brewery that prides itself on keeping its beer relevant to the history of Wallace. Rumor has it that there were a handful of extra special women who worked in the Bordellos during the early 1900s. It seems only fitting that the coppers be given sometimes colorful names like Stella and Roxy to represent the different types of beer being brewed. While beers named Dirty Blonde, Jackleg Stout and Orehouse Amber honor Wallace’s rich mining and bordello history.
I also visited North Idaho Mountain Brew on the opposite side of town. Established in 2008, the owners of North Idaho Mountain Brew brought a dream to reality after years of home brewing in Alaska. The brewery has five brewed delights on tap that relate to northern Idaho including Mountain Top Amber, Summit Gold and Loft Honey, all with significance to the local ski resorts. Beer from both breweries can be found in pubs across northern Idaho. The breweries host home brew get-togethers so stop in for a sampler, bring in some of your own personal masterpiece to share and tempt your taste buds with these flavorful beers!
My final hours in Wallace took me to the south side of town. Ready for a snack, I stopped in at D & G Bakery. If you’re looking for a fresh baked treasure like your mom might make, this is the place: breads, cakes, cookies, espresso…you won’t be disappointed. After a mouth-watering chocolate chip cookie I made my way down 5th Street where a delicious scent filled the air. A large, old fashioned smoker sits outside the Smoke House BBQ and Saloon, calling to empty bellies and beckoning one and all to experience an entree along with the aroma. If it’s not mealtime, pop inside anyway, have the beverage of your choice and admire the building’s history. You can’t miss the 100 foot wildlife mural on the back wall painted by John Hart in 1980. I am told he was compensated for his work with beer…sounds like a great deal to me!
With the sun setting, creating a beautiful sunset glow over the hills, it was time to enjoy dinner at the
1313 Club. It’s pretty interesting how it got its name: first, its original bar was 13 feet high by 13 feet wide and second, it was the 13th bar built in Wallace and deserved a snazzier name than “The 13th Bar”. The 1313 Club serves local Wallace brews and has a large menu to satisfy any appetite. The 1313′s great food, fun atmosphere and historic touches speak for themselves.
When in Idaho, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the small town (4 blocks long by 9 blocks wide) of historic Wallace. During my one day in town, I was only able to experience just a few of the wonderful breweries, shops and restaurants, but there are many more hidden treasures I look forward to visiting on my next trip to this inviting little city.
Part II, written by guest blogger Austin Rogerson
I am always in search of a place for grown ups to be able to sit and enjoy some great brews and be able to have conversations here in the North Idaho area.
What always happens is I find a place that has great Craft Beer choices, but it is just not a place to sit and hang out with friends and be able to have conversations. Or…I find a place that is good to hang out in, but the beer choices are minimal or they just don’t have any craft beer at all (why I have no idea!).
My recent find is Mulligan’s in the Best Western Coeur d’Alene Inn. If you have lived in the area for a long time you will remember that at one time Mulligan’s formerly known as Roxy’s was a hot spot in the area in days past. It is well past it’s Roxy days (thank goodness-pukers need not apply), but with the addition of a new GM to the hotel he is wanting to put Mulligan’s back on the radar. He has added a couple Laughing Dog Brews to his taps and is going to rotate in other regional craft brews in the future.
Now the beer choices are not elaborate, but at least they have started on the right path. So with some good brews on tap, decent food, and a quiet environment that you can sit and enjoy conversations with friends it just may be one of my new hang out spots. Oh…and did I mention they have a magician that is in the bar entertaining folks a few night a week?
What places have you found that you like to spend time in here in the North Idaho area? Maybe we need to get a list going!
Guest Blogger: Jamie Lynn Morgon, Bikes and Brews Northwest
Heading west from Montana or east from Washington atop Interstate 90, we always build in time to stop in the historic silver mining town of Wallace. Sometimes we stop for a pint at the brewpub, other times a shot of espresso and a pastry. Now we’ll stop for the cannolis.
A few weeks ago, heading east toward Seattle, we made our usual exit 62 stop. We walked by the quirky bordello museum, the stone chateau of the former Burlington Northern depot and our usual stops, then went into a different place. There on Cedar Street, behind the counter of the D & G Bakery, we met Anne Alexander.
I wanted caffeine and something sweet. “I’m known for my little cheesecakes,” Anne said, her Italian New Yorker accent coming out double-shot strong with each syllable. Two bites into a delicious mini huckleberry cheesecake, my fiancee, Jolica, said to Anne: “That was awesome. Any chance you make cannolis?”
Cannoli was my Italian grandma’s specialty dessert, and I’ll admit to being a cannoli snob. They’re hard to find because making them is labor intensive and they demand precise timing not always in synch with customer needs. Anne said, “I make the best, but I need at least a day’s notice.”
No worries, I said, giving her 18 days notice before our next trip across the top of Idaho.
Grandma used to say the perfect cannoli starts with a shell made from wheat, eggs, sugar and other “secret ingredients.” She would lightly fry the shell, then add a filling of cream, ricotta, chocolate chips and more “secret ingredients.” The keys were the texture and the timing.
Seventeen days later, we gave Anne the reminder call she requested, but she didn’t need it. The shells were done, and ready to be filled when we arrived. She noted, “we will have them like the Sicilian’s do: with a shot of espresso, a slight twist of lemon, and a few drips of Sambuca included.”
The bakery was actually closed that day, so we knew we were in for a special treat. Anne’s husband John joined us to clank glasses and savor an absolutely wonderful dessert. Then another. And one more for good measure.
We like traveling without reservations, but will now make an exception to that rule and call Anne to reserve cannolis whenever we’re 24 hours from Wallace. And although we won’t expect the off-day family treatment, we’ll bank on a welcoming smile and some fantastic Italian treats.
Cheers, John
Written by Guest Blogger John Deleva
Week 8: October 17 – 23
As we get closer to Halloween and the cool Idaho air gives us a reprieve from the summer heat, rich wines and hearty dishes of comfort foods take center stage. It’s not too late to enjoy an outdoor adventure and ease into fall with these great Idaho events.
October 23 – 29: 7-Day Wine Tasting Getaway, Red Horse Mountain Ranch, Harrison
Sample over 30 regional wines, be delighted with chef prepared meals, and enjoy a wide range of guided adventures including horseback riding, sporting clays, kayaking, and boat tours.
October 21: Pend d’Oreille Winery Live Music Line-up
Savor some delicious wine and listen to the soft, acoustic, indie folk/rock of Jean Mann from coastal Washington. Concert is from 5 pm – 8pm.
Sip Your Way Through Idaho Wine Country: Idaho Wine Passport Program

In partnership with the Idaho Statesman, the Idaho Wine Commission created the Idaho Wine Passport Program. Passport holders receive special deals at the 20 participating wineries located throughout Idaho, and will be entered to win a stellar grand wine prize. Passport is valid through the end of April, 2012.
With fall comes an abundance of gourds. Courtesy of the Idaho Preferred recipe library, this delicious recipe is perfect for warming up as the temperatures cool down.
1 pound ground beef
1 cup torn Romaine
1 medium onion, chopped
1 tablespoon Mexican Seasoning Mix
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
⅓ cup raisins
1 acorn squash, quartered, cooked
1 tablespoon slivered almonds (optional)
1. Brown ground beef in large nonstick skillet over medium heat 8 to 10 minutes or until beef is no longer pink, breaking up into ¾-inch crumbles. Pour off drippings.
2. Sprinkle seasoning mix and cinnamon over beef; mix well. Stir in tomato sauce and raisins, bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve over squash. Garnish with almonds, if desired.
Enjoy local food and wine at these Idaho restaurants.
Farmers Market Guide
A Harvest Guideto farm festivals, pumpkin patches and corn mazes
Culinary Event Calendar for August 29 – September 5
Culinary Event Calendar for September 6 – 11
Culinary Event Calendar for September 12 – 17
Culinary Event Calendar September 18 – 25
Culinary Event Calendar September 26 – October 2
Culinary Event Calendar October 3 – October 9
Culinary Event Calendar October 10 – 16
Culinary Event Calendar October 17 – 23
Culinary Event Calendar October 24 – 30
Culinary Event Calendar October 31 – November 6
Week 7: October 10-16
It’s that time of year when the air is crisp, pumpkins are ripe, cider is flowing and cities and towns are bubbling with Halloween spirit. It’s fall in Idaho, a great time to check out the bountiful harvest.
Octover 12th: Paella and Tapas Class @ Basque Market, Boise

One of the Basque Market’s most popular classes! This class will feature one of our most popular tapas, green olive tapenade! The traditional technique of preparing delicious seafood paella will be shown and enjoyed during the class as well! Classes begin at 6pm and include tapas and a tasting of 3-4 wines.
October 12 & 14: Paella on the Patio from Noon – 2 pm, Basque Market, Boise
Enjoy a heaping bowl of delicious seafood, chicken and chorizo paella with freshly baked bread. Arrive early to secure a seat and enjoy a glass of wine or a bubbly Spanish soda while watching the paella preparation.
October 14: Oktoberfest, El Korah Shrine Center, Boise
Beer, polka music, and German food. Party starts at 6:30 pm.
October 16: Harvest Fest, Indian Creek Winery, Kuna
Enjoy music, grape stomping, cork spitting contests, winery tours and pumpkin painting for the kids. Noon to 5 p.m.
October 16-22: 7-Day Wine Tasting Getaway, Red Horse Mountain Ranch, Harrison
Sample over 30 regional wines, be delighted with chef-prepared meals, and enjoy a wide range of guided adventures.
Enjoy local food and wine at these Idaho restaurants.
Farmers Market Guide
A Harvest Guideto farm festivals, pumpkin patches and corn mazes
Culinary Event Calendar for August 29 – September 5
Culinary Event Calendar for September 6 – 11
Culinary Event Calendar for September 12 – 17
Culinary Event Calendar September 18 – 25
Culinary Event Calendar September 26 – October 2
Culinary Event Calendar October 3 – October 9
Culinary Event Calendar October 10 – 16
Culinary Event Calendar October 17 – 23
Culinary Event Calendar October 24 – 30
Culinary Event Calendar October 31 – November 6