IF Rep To Open Pub In Post-Legislative Life

Dozens of legislators are calling it quits after the 2012 session, but most probably aren’t heading home to open a pub.

Janice McGeachin’s walk through a dusty construction site was a far cry from the halls of the Boise Statehouse Tuesday afternoon.

“I’m actually excited to get back into business,” said McGeachin.

The former state representative said after five terms, it’s time to leave the legislature behind and focus on starting a new venture: an Irish pub in downtown Idaho Falls.

“I’m interested in helping, in our way, to promote the economy and create jobs,” said McGeachin. “That’s what it’s really all about.”

The vacant building on the corner of Broadway and Park is slowly transforming into “The Celt.” It’s a vision McGeachin and husband Jimmy dreamed up years ago.

“People are coming to us. We have a handful of people who want to bartend and a couple interested in helping in the kitchen,” she said.

The Celt will have a big bar, a stage for live local musicians, and a menu featuring smoked meats from pastrami to corned beef.

McGeachin said many are wondering what will happen to the building’s famous wagon wheels after an Irish pub moves in.

“We’re going to think of something fun to do,” she said, like integrate them into the dcor or donate them to the Museum of Idaho.

McGeachin said her ten years in the Legislature have come in handy building a new business from the ground up. But the restaurant will really be about family, she said, and creating opportunities for the next generation.

“Our daughter, who’s graduating from the University of Idaho, will be managing the place for us,” said McGeachin.

The family business is set to open on July 28, and some day, bear the McGeachin family crest.

McGeachin said she and her husband will continue to run their auto businesses, which employ 35 families in Idaho Falls, and others in Boise