baking summer festive
From Fourth of July picnics to summer outings, we bake scrumptious cookies that are sure to make every day sweeter!
Our bakery case is filled with over 20 flavors of cookies baked fresh every day including seasonal flavors! We make our cookies by hand using quality ingredients and lots of love! Whether you need to satisfy your own sweet cravings or need catering for an event, we bake it easy for you! We also serve gluten-friendly cookies, brownies, ice cream treats and decorated celebration cookies!
Call or order online today!
Empower South Dakota 2025 Diabetes Conference
SIOUX FALLS, SOUTH DAKOTA
The Empower Conference is for those living with diabetes, family members of those with diabetes, and those with prediabetes or looking to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.
YOU WILL:
1. Learn about diabetes care and management
2. Connect with others affected by the disease
3. Meet with vendors who support the treatment and management of the disease
Attend keynote presentations and breakout sessions on a variety of topics. Choose topics that resonate with where you’re at in your journey with diabetes.
1. Type 1 diabetes
2. Type 2 diabetes
3. Prediabetes
For more information visit: sddiabetescoalition.org/empower-sd.html
concierge 8
See What’s Bloomin’ atTwo Little Bees
Family Farm
calendar 10
July 2025
history 20
Buffalo Bill Cody
out & about
WE MAKE HISTORY
Now is the moment we’ve been waiting for. With new treatments emerging in the fight against Alzheimer’s and all other dementia, now is the time for hope. But not the time to stop.
Help us keep the momentum going in your community at the Alzheimer’s Association Walk To End Alzheimer’s®, the world’s largest fundraiser to fight the disease. Join us at alz.org/walk
2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Falls Park – Sioux Falls September 27, 2025 | 10:00a.m.
2025 National Presenting Sponsor
See What’s Bloomin’ at TWO LITTLE BEES FAMILY FARM
BY MARY MICHAELS
Two Little Bees Family Farm 48790 255th Street Garretson, SD 57030
twolittlebeespumpkins@gmail.com www.twolittlebeespumpkinsandproduce.com/
Find us on Facebook @TwoLittleBeesFarm
Ifyou’re a fan of The Sound of Music, you’ll remember one of Maria’s philosophical lines: “When God closes one door, somewhere he opens a window.”
That line rang true for Brittany Lessman’s family when they made the difficult decision to close down their family’s dairy farm back in 2018. The main operation was housed at Brittany’s parents’ farm, but the heifers all made their home at the farm where she lived with her husband, Kyle.
Suddenly they found themselves looking out at acres and acres of empty cattle lots and pasture land. “We were living on a farm, but not living the farm life,” the couple says.
Closing the dairy farm happened right about the same time as the birth of Kyle and Brittany’s son. A daughter joined the family two years later.
“Brittany and I both grew up on farms,” says Kyle, “and we wanted that for our kids.”
And then, a window opened.
“As an experiment, I tilled up a patch of ground and planted pumpkins. We grew them, harvested and sold them at the farmer’s market.”
And they weren’t just any pumpkins, according to Brittany, who pointed out the Kyle picked the “weirdest, gourdiest, most unique varieties.”
With the success of the pumpkin project, the couple decide to expand – evolving from dairy to Dahlias and cows to Cosmos. A flower farm.
The first year of Two Little Bees Family Farm U-Pick events was 2024, starting with eight 50-foot rows. For this season, the garden has grown to ten 50-foot rows. In other words, 3,000 square feet of blooming, colorful flowers.
The farm’s name has nothing to do with insects, and they don’t produce honey. Rather, Two Little Bees honors their two children, whose names both start with the letter “B.” Now, their son, age seven, and daughter, age five, are the busy little bees helping mom and dad with all aspects of the farm.
“This is what we wanted,” Brittany explains. “After being raised on
farms, we wanted to teach our kids the same lessons we learned. The circle of life, the chores and responsibilities that come with the farm, and all the beauty of being connected to the land.”
Because Brittany and Kyle both have jobs off the farm, and the kids are busy with activities like baseball and piano lessons and raising a new puppy, the family treasures the quiet moments they can get out and work in the garden together.
They started some seeds indoors last December and got out into the garden in May for direct planting with a goal to be ready for U-Pick events by July 20. They plan to have events nearly every Friday and Sunday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. from their kickoff date through the first frost. They keep a calendar on the website and have weekly updates on Facebook in case there are changes to the schedule.
“We have to stay a little flexible due to things like weather, but we’ll keep the U-Pick events going into the fall as long as the flowers hold out,” Kyle says.
Brittany is excited for the rows to start blooming.
“We’ll have so much color this year, with oranges and lime green, jewel tones and pastels. We should have everyone’s favorite color covered.”
For U-Pick events, each picker gets a 20-ounce cup for $25 to fill with blooms. They provide you with shears, or you can bring your own. Everyone who is picking needs a ticket, available on-site from their Farm Stand, but if you have a guest along who isn’t picking, no ticket is required.
They encourage pickers to leisurely enjoy the garden, stopping to smell the blooms, take pictures and talk with other pickers.
In addition to the regularly scheduled U-Pick events, the couple also offers private U-Pick events by special request for birthday parties, office gatherings or other occasions.
“This is just our quiet little corner of the world for people to slow down and reconnect with the land, with friends and even reconnect with themselves,” says Kyle.
Brittany agrees.
“We are just far enough from Sioux Falls to escape the ‘busy-ness,’” she says. “We like to say we give people an opportunity to get off the pavement.”
When you are out in the field, you may catch a glimpse of Kyle and Brittany’s kids.
“Our son is such a people person,” says Kyle. “He’ll be out in the garden telling people about all the different varieties, how they’re
seeded and grown. And our daughter regularly goes out and picks a bouquet for us to enjoy on our own table all summer.”
Both Kyle and Brittany agree that while the kids do a great job planting and caring for the garden, the thing they most enjoy is gardenwatering time…because it usually ends with a water fight.
If you can’t make a U-Pick event, you can still take home beautiful blooms fresh from the farm. From July through September, they stock their Farm Stand at the garden with pre-cut and arranged mason jar bouquets for $20. Similar bouquets also get dropped off at Annie’s Coffee Shop in Brandon on Tuesdays.
“We want to spread the joy as far as we can,” Brittany says.
And once the calendar turns to September and October, and Kyle’s “weird” pumpkins are ready, the farm stand will be filled with pumpkins for visitors to purchase.
Both Kyle and Brittany are quick to point out that while the “B’s” in their name is for the kids, the word “family” in the name is just as important.
Their parents have done everything from mowing and weeding to making the farm’s sign, helping the couple with the kids and helping around their house. Brittany also talks about her aunt and other family members who have made their flower dream possible.
“We are so grateful for all the family help,” they say. “We couldn’t do this without them.”
A flower farm is a long way from operating a dairy, but it’s a journey the couple wouldn’t trade for anything.
“I guess you could say flowers are kind of a luxury item,” says Brittany. “You don’t need them. But what they offer is so valuable. It’s just the feelings, the happiness, what your senses experience in the garden and just that connection to nature.”
As they reflect back on the past several years, Kyle and Brittany are glad this window opened for them and their children. Each season, they watch the flowers grow – and watch their kids grow. When a planting isn’t successful, or if the weather causes damage, they take the opportunity to teach their son and daughter that things don’t always go your way in life, and that sometimes there will be disappointment or sadness. But, you can always “replant.”
And when the flowers bloom and the pumpkins are ready, they can celebrate with their kids – marveling in those miracles of nature that they get to share with others.
July 2025
Falls Park
Farmer’s Market
Every Saturday, May through October. 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Falls ParkFalls Park
Farmers Market is the place to get your weekly supply of fresh flowers, vegetables, meat, and baked goods. Sip a cup
of coffee, enjoy a burger, share a pizza. Plant your garden with lovely geraniums and heirloom tomatoes. No pets allowed due to public health concerns.
Starlab Inflatable Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum
Thursday, July 3 1:30 and 2:30 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street Discover the night sky, explore the constellations! Starlab is a program for adults and children over the age of 5. Not recommended for those not comfortable in the
dark. Tickets only $2, program begins promptly on the hour with no late entry. Groups of 8 or more, please call ahead. INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
Historic Walking Tour of Eastbank/Downtown Thursday, July 3
6:30 p.m.
Siouxland Heritage Museums
Enjoy beautiful summer weather while learning about Sioux Falls sites you pass by every day! $5 per person over 12 years old, space is limited, call (605) 367-4210 to register. siouxlandmuseums.com
Sioux Falls Independence Day Celebration
Friday, July 4
11 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Levitt at the falls
The Sioux Falls Independence Day Celebration on Monday, July 4, will feature a free lunch for the first 2,000 attendees followed by live music and entertainment.
Luverne’s 4 Day Celebration: Nutcracker Fest
July 9 - 12
Luverne, MN
Take 16 Beer Release, concerts, free baseball game, hot dog nite July 10 - 15,000+ FREE hot dogs! Kids activites, weiner dog races, half marathon, world’s largest Nutcracker dedication73 feet tall! Please visit luvernechamber.com for full list of events, days and times! Don’t miss this event!
Touchmark at All Saint Meet The Author: Local Voices Series Thursday, July 10 – Author Patrick Hicks Patrick Hicks is the author of more than ten books,
JULY GAMES at
Birdcage
INFO AND TICKETS: (605) 336-6060
Play ball! Come out
the Birdcage to cheer on the Sioux Falls Canaries as they take on teams from around the country. The Canaries are a proud member of the American Association, an official partner league of Major League Baseball.
July 1 • 6:35 p.m. • vs. Lincoln Saltdogs
July 2 • 6:35 p.m. • vs. Lincoln Saltdogs
July 3 • 6:35 p.m. • vs. Lincoln Saltdogs
July 4 • 7:05 p.m. • vs. Milwaukee Milkmen
July 5 • 5:35 p.m. • vs. Milwaukee Milkmen
July 6 • 4:05 p.m. • vs. Milwaukee Milkmen
July 15 • 6:35 p.m. • vs. Winnipeg Goldeyes
July 16 • 6:35 p.m. • vs. Winnipeg Goldeyes
July 17 • 6:35 p.m. • vs. Winnipeg Goldeyes
July 24 • 6:35 p.m. • vs. Lake County DockHounds
July 25 • 7:05 p.m. • vs. Lake County DockHounds
July 26 • 5:35 p.m. • vs. Lake County DockHounds
July 27 • 4:05 p.m. • vs. Lake County DockHounds
July 29 • 6:35 p.m. • vs. Gary SouthShore Railcats
July 30 • 6:35 p.m. • vs. Gary SouthShore Railcats
July 31 • 6:35 p.m. • vs. Gary SouthShore Railcats
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including The Collector of Names, Adoptable, and This London. His second book about the Holocaust, In the Shadow of Dora, was a finalist in the ScreenCraft Cinematic Book Writing Competition—this is for novels that hold exceptional promise to be made into a movie. His latest novel, Across the Lake, takes place in the only all-female concentration camp in the Third Reich. For more information, visit patrickhicks.org. Call (605) 610-0872 to RSVP at least one week before each event.
Starlab Inflatable Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum Thursday, July 10 1:30 and 2:30 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street Discover the night sky, explore the constellations! Starlab is a program for adults and children over the age of 5. Not recommended for those not comfortable in the dark. Tickets only $2, program begins promptly on the hour with no late entry. Groups of 8 or more, please call ahead.
INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
Wilde Prairie Winery Boozy Yoga
Thursday, July 10 6 p.m.
48052 259th St, Brandon, SD.
(605) 582-6471. wildprairiewinery.com
Historic Walking Tour of Mount Pleasant Cemetery: Civil War Veterans
Siouxland Heritage Museums
Thursday, July 10 6:30 p.m.
Enjoy beautiful summer weather while learning about Sioux Falls sites you pass by every day! $5 per person over 12 years old, space is limited, call (605) 367-4210 to register. siouxlandmuseums.com
Lallycooler
July 11 - 12
Great Bear Ski Valley
Lallycooler is a two-day, large-scale summer music festival that brings big artists and music lovers of all kinds together for an unforgettable experience in the scenic setting of Great Bear Ski Valley. Lallycooler means “a real success,” and it will be just that — from the music to the food, unique experiences and more. The 2025 festival will be the first, and you don’t want to miss it. lallycooler.com
Mike Munson at the Old Courthouse Museum
Summer Concert Series
Friday, July 11
Noon-1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
Mike Munson will perform in the plaza behind the Old Courthouse Museum. Bring your lunch and
enjoy the show! Concert could be held inside in the case of rain or construction projects this summer. (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Wilde Prairie Winery
Quilts on the Vine
Saturday, July 12
1-5 p.m. sign up on our website wildprairiewinery.com 48052 259th St, Brandon, SD. (605) 582-6471.
Fiber Fun at the Old Courthouse Museum
Sunday, July 13
1-4 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street
Do you like to knit, crochet, needle work, or dabble in any other fiber arts? Come join members from the Crossthreads Fiber Guild for an afternoon of Fiber Fun! Attendees can work on projects, ask for suggestions, and just enjoy the company of fellow fiber friends. INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Rosemaling
Demonstration at the Old Courthouse Museum
Tuesday, July 15
1 -4 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street
Eileen Halverson will be demonstrating the Norwegian folk art of Rosemaling (decorative painting) in the secondfloor hallway of the Old
Courthouse Museum from 1-4 p.m. Stop in any time for a demonstration or to ask questions!
INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Nordic Butikk & Cultural Fair
Thursday, July 17
9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sioux Falls
Convention Center
VELKOMMEN! Join us for a day of Nordic fun! Enjoy NorwegianAmerican cultural and historical displays! Shop for unique Norwegian items: traditional sweaters & mittens; handcrafts such as rosemaling, hardangersøm (embroidery), woodcarving, sølje and other jewelry; Scandinavian collectibles like nisser (gnomes), & more! Free admission.
Kid’s Activity Day:
Masquerade! at the Old Courthouse Museum
Thursday, July 17
9-11 a.m. and 1-2:30 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street
Kids can learn about history and make their own crafts to take home. 15 minute sessions run throughout morning and afternoon times. Call to reserve times. Free admission. INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Behind the Scenes
Tour of the Irene Hall
Museum Resource Center Thursday, July 17 • 2 p.m.
Irene Hall Museum Resource Center • 4300 N. Westport Avenue
Take a look behind the closed doors of the Irene Hall Museum Resource Center and see the artifact storage and conservation areas. Space is limited, call (605) 367-4210 to register, $5. siouxlandmuseums.com
Historic Walking Tour of Woodlawn Cemetery: Rosehill Siouxland Heritage Museums
Thursday, July 17 6:30 p.m.
Enjoy beautiful summer weather while learning about Sioux Falls sites you pass by every day! $5 per person over 12 years old, space is limited, call (605) 367-4210 to register. siouxlandmuseums.com
East of Westreville at the Old Courthouse Museum Summer Concert Series Friday, July 18 Noon-1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street East of Wesreville will perform in the plaza behind the Old Courthouse Museum. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Concert could be held inside in the case of rain or construction projects this summer. (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
American Legion Auxiliary BINGO Tuesday, July 22
Social: 5-6 p.m.
Meal: 6-6:30 p.m.
BINGO: 6:45 p.m.
1600 W. Russell
Open to the public! July meal is meat loaf, baked potato, veggie and dessert. Please call Jane at (605) 682-1222 for meal reservation.
Burton Cummings of The Guess Who
Tuesday, July 22
7:30 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
Canadian rock ‘n’ roll royalty, a national treasure, and living legend, Burton Cummings of The Guess Who is performing at the Washington Pavilion. Few artists have achieved the level of public success and critical acclaim that Burton Cummings enjoys in a career spanning more than sixty years. WashingtonPavilion.org
Pettigrew Summer Open House
Tuesday, July 22 5-8 p.m.
Pettigrew Home & Museum 131 N. Duluth Avenue
Take a tour of the Pettigrew open house and enjoy refreshments in the museum. Horsedrawn carriage rides will tour the Cathedral District throughout the evening. Free admission. INFO (605) 367-7097 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Historic Walking Tour of North McKennan District Siouxland Heritage Museums
Thursday, July 24 • 6:30 p.m.
Enjoy beautiful summer weather while learning about Sioux Falls sites you pass by every day! $5 per person over 12 years old, space is limited, call (605) 367-4210 to register. siouxlandmuseums.com
JAS Quintet at the Old Courthouse Museum
Summer Concert Series
Friday, July 25
Noon-1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
JAS Quintet will perform in the plaza behind the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Concert could be held inside in the case of rain or construction projects this summer. (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Wilde Prairie Winery
Boozy Yoga
Saturday, July 26 • 6 p.m. 48052 259th St, Brandon, SD. (605) 582-6471. wildprairiewinery.com
Wilde Prairie Winery
Sunday in the Vineyard Sunday, July 27 • 2-5 p.m.
Live music by Bill Britton & Friends 48052 259th St, Brandon, SD. (605) 582-6471.
Sign up on our website wildprairiewinery.com.
Sioux Falls Municipal Band: The Grand Finale
Sunday, July 27 • 8 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
Founded in 1919, the Sioux Falls Municipal Band has
been a beloved part of our community for over a century. With a rich tradition of live music and civic pride, we bring people together through the power of song. Each year, we perform for more than 17,000 enthusiastic concertgoers, sharing music in some of the most beautiful venues throughout Sioux Falls. WashingtonPavilion.org
Starlab Inflatable
Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum
Thursday, July 31
1:30 and 2:30 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street Discover the night sky, explore the constellations! Starlab is a program for adults and children over the age of 5. Not recommended for those not comfortable in the dark. Tickets only $2, program begins promptly on the hour with no late entry. Groups of 8 or more, please call ahead. INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
Historic Walking Tour of South End
Cathedral District
Siouxland Heritage Museums
Thursday, July 31 • 6:30 p.m.
Enjoy beautiful summer weather while learning about Sioux Falls sites you pass by every day! $5 per person over 12 years old, space is limited, call (605) 367-4210 to register. siouxlandmuseums.com
Proud to serve our community
Raymond James has been ranked the #1 WEALTH MANAGEMENT FIRM for Advised Investor Satisfaction and Most Trusted in the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Investor Satisfaction Study.
Putting clients first has been the firm’s central value from the beginning, so it’s a particular honor to have been recognized by our clients. Here in Sioux Falls, we’re especially proud of this recognition and are excited to continue partnering with you. We look forward to championing the unique challenges and opportunities in this community as we serve the people who make it special.
READY TO LEARN MORE? CONTACT ME TODAY.
JENNIFER SHERMAN
Branch Manager, Senior Vice President, Investments 5800 S. Remington Place, Suite 100 // Sioux Falls, SD 57108 T 605.910.7995 // D 605.910.7981
jennifer.sherman@raymondjames.com raymondjames.com/siouxfalls-branch
J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Investor Satisfaction Study, which measures overall investor satisfaction with investment firms, was released 3/20/25, based on investors surveyed 1/24-12/24, who may be working with a financial advisor. Based on 7,876 responses from Advised Investors, 1 company out of 24 was chosen as the winner. The award is not representative of any one client’s experience, is not an endorsement, and is not indicative of an advisor’s future performance. The study is independently conducted, and the participating firms do not pay to participate. Use of study results in promotional materials is subject to a license fee. J.D. Power is not affiliated with Raymond James. For J.D. Power 2025 award information, visit https://app.rjf.ae.raymondjames.com/e/ er?s=1370980913&lid=30892&elqTrackId=15B2D6992006B0D2B1830C128BBA79EC& elq=93195eb63479426ba0430da9e0974fc0&elqaid=28176&elqat=1&elqak=8AF5121 3D353DE9F143B6D0B6A4FB428193585DA530D3270E886D6E09FA246F510E6jdpower. com/awards. © 2025 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. 25-BRNGL-0018 JPR 5/25
11.23.1945
ANTHONY BRANDENBURG
11.07.1970 - 02.24.2025
SATURDAY, AUGUST 16TH TOUCH THE SKY PRAIRIE
NORTHERN TALLGRASS PRAIRIE
NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE 171ST ST - LUVERNE, MN
8:30 PRAIRIE WALK WITH USFWS
10:30 SHARING OF MEMORIES & MUSIC AT CENTRAL KIOSK
Bring your own chair ( PALACE THEATRE - Inclemenr Weather) (507) 283-1884
SUNDAY, AUGUST 24TH
2-4 PM - OPEN HOUSE BRANDENBURG GALLERY 11 E SHERIDAN ST - ELY, MN - (218) 365-6563
BRANDENBURG GALLERY
LUVERNE’S 4
DAY CELEBRATION | JULY 9, 10, 11 & 12
WEDNESDAY | JULY 9
TAKE 16 BREWING COMPANY
BEER RELEASE | 5:30 PM
Take 16’s new signature beer profile honoring the world’s largest nutcracker “Wooden Warrior”
FRIDAY | JULY 11
THE NUTCRACKER BASE RACE 5:30 PM | REDBIRD FIELD
• FREE BASEBALL GAME: Redbird “Nutcrackers” play the Branden Belugas
SOUND AT THE MOUND 8 -12 PM | REDBIRD FIELD
• Top 40 Country Cover Band, “10 Miles from Nowhere”
• FREE Admission with beer garden & food court
THURSDAY | JULY 10
63RD ANNUAL HOT DOG NITE THROUGHOUT TOWN
• 15,000 hot dogs & drink given away starting at 5:30 pm
• Kids activites and performances starting at 5 pm
• Wiener dog beauty pageant & races starting at 7 pm
• Live band at Big Top Events starting at 8 pm
SATURDAY | JULY 12
NUTCRACKER HALF MARATHONS EVENTS START 6:30 AM
• Info & registration: https:// runsignup.com/Race/Events/ MN/Luverne/NutcrackerHalf
WORLD’S LARGEST NUTCRACKER DEDICATION 11 AM | THOSE BLASTED THINGS 924 SOUTH KNISS
theJoinfun! Reserve Your Booth
Friday, October 17th 12pm–8pm
Saturday, October 18th 9am–3pm Sioux Falls Convention Center
Buffalo Bill Cody
By Wayne Fanebust
WilliamF. “Buffalo Bill” Cody was a man whose place in American history is anchored by having lived on the frontier and thereafter, by reenacting his role as a frontiersman before large audiences. He was born in 1846, in Le Claire, Iowa, territory, two years before it joined the union of states. His father, Isaac Cody, was Canadian and his mother, Mary Ann Bonsell Laycock, hailed from Trenton, New Jersey. Bill spent his younger years in Canada before his family settled in Kansas, in 1853, thus landing him
firmly in the American West, where as it turned out, suited him very well.
Just then Kansas Territory was in the throes of the great slavery debate. Isaac Cody was stridently and openly anti-slavery and his beliefs caused him to be attacked and beaten by pro-slavery men, so seriously as to threaten his life. He died in 1857. His son, Bill, at 11 years old, had to step into the role of an adult due to the family’s devastating financial situation. He worked as a “boy extra” for a freight carrier, riding up and down the length of a wagon train
to deliver messages to the drivers.
At age 14, Bill got caught up in “gold fever” and in 1860, he joined the mass of prospectors bound for California. While he was making the trek, he met an agent for the Pony Express and soon Bill was a rider for the company that famously recruited young boys, especially orphans. This claim has been disputed because young Bill actually worked for the parent company of Pony Express and instead of the dangerous rides his job was merely to carry messages on horseback from the company
William F.Cody
BUFFALO BILL (1846-1917)
At the age of 11, William F. Cody was forced to find work after his father died. During his colorful life, Cody was a messenger, Pony Express rider, Civil War soldier, any scout, guide, and Indian fighter. He earned his nickname, “Buffalo Bill,” by providing fresh buffalo meat for railroad building crews.
In 1883 he staged his first Wild West which was part rodeo, part theater, and part circus. For 30 years the show traveled across the United States, Canada, and Europe.
Arriving in Sioux Falls on a special railroad train, Cody’s huge cast opened the Tri-State Fair at this site on September 21, 1896. “Historical scenes” portrayed Indian attacks on an immigrant wagon train, a lonely settler’s cabin, and a Deadwood stagecoach. Spectators cheered each time Cody saved the day by charging in and repulsing the attackers.
Sharpshooter Annie Oakley demonstrated her uncanny expertise, and over 500 riders, including 100 Indian warriors, performed feats of showmanship on horseback. It was said that “the whole countryside came to see” Buffalo Bill. Over 25,000 thrill seekers packed the threehour afternoon and evening shows.
DEDICATED IN 2000 IN MEMORY OF KAYLYNN RUDE BY ALL CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY, AND THE CITY OF SIOUX FALLS.
office in Leavenworth to a telegraph station three miles away. He quit the job when he was called to his sick mother’s bedside. She recovered in time to stop her son from enlisting in the Union army which was, just then, battling the Southern states in the Civil War.
Bill Cody was persistent, and at the age of 17, in 1863, he enlisted as a teamster, with the rank of private, in Company H, 7th Kansas Cavalry, serving until the war’s end in 1865. During the thick of combat, Cody’s bravery was tested over and over again, and yet he
never waivered, saving wounded soldiers, pulling them from the battlefield at the risk of his own life.
At some point during the long, bloody conflict, he became acquainted with James Butler Hickok, who had served the Union army as a scout. The man, who became widely known as Wild Bill Hickok, forged a lasting friendship with the man who adopted the handle Buffalo Bill.
In 1866, Cody, who seemed destined to live a life on horseback, offered his services
as a scout in Kansas. He served as a scout for, among others, Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer. In 1867, while in the employ of the Kansas Pacific Railway, Cody was granted time off scouting to hunt buffalo to feed the construction crew. Then, the American Plains were home to millions of the huge, ungainly beasts, easy targets for men like Cody who were rapidly reducing the size of the great herds.
Scouting was just the ticket for the young plainsman and in 1868, Cody pulled off one
Cody in 1864 at the age of19
of his greatest rides, as the lone dispatch from Fort Larned to Fort Hayes, a total of 350 miles, narrowly avoiding capture. Moving through dangerous Indian Territory, Cody traveled for 58 hours straight, covering the last 35 miles on foot. For his stamina and bravery, Cody was awarded the title: Chief of Scouts by General Philip Sheridan. Cody made a name for himself as a scout during campaigns against the Indian tribes, who fought valiantly to save their native land from the white invaders.
Cody was dubbed “Buffalo Bill” when he worked for the Kansas Pacific Railroad under a contract to supply bison meat to the workers.
As the story goes, Cody killed 4,282 buffalo in eighteen months in 1867 and 1868. He had a competitor for the vaunted name in Bill Comstock, another scout and hunter of renown. The two men held a buffalo killing contest, won by Bill Cody, who beat his opponent 68 to 48 in an eight hour killing spree, using a Springfield Model 1866. As a result, Cody was officially known as Buffalo Bill.
Cody loved notoriety and showmanship. It suited him that he had grown to be admired and respected as an all around frontiersman. All he needed was someone to help spread the news, and he found that man in Ned Buntline. The two men got acquainted in New York and
before long the novelist who especially liked bold and brazen men, published Buffalo Bill, King of the Bordermen. The biography, which was simply a made-up version of Cody’s life was published in a series of articles in the Chicago Tribune starting December 15, 1869. Cody’s experiences as a plainsman would only get more sensationalized from there.
New York playwright Frederick G. Maeder converted Buntline’s novel into a play entitled Buffalo Bill that premiered in the elite Niblo’s Garden in 1872. Cody, of course, was in the audience, while visiting New York and was impressed to see his life portrayed on stage by an actor named J. B. Studley. Cody wanted
“Wild Bill” Hickok, Texas Jack Omohundro, and Cody in 1873
more heroics and he decided to be the star player in productions that he would create. Soon the world was watching the Buffalo Bill Wild West, a production that played in cities throughout the United States and Europe.
In December of 1872, Cody went to Chicago to appear on stage with his friend Texas Jack Omohundro in a show called Scouts of the Plains, produced by Ned Buntline. The critics disliked it and called it amateurish, but that failed to dissuade Cody, for in 1873, he added another frontier luminary to his cast, namely Wild Bill Hickok. The trio toured for ten years, although Hickok dropped out because he simply disliked appearing before
crowds of wide-eyed folks who seemingly couldn’t get enough of hero worship.
And Cody kept pouring it on. Going big time, he launched Buffalo Bill’s Wild West and Congress of Rough Riders of the World
This show was much more than cowboys on horseback. It featured horse cultures from other parts of the world including Turks, Arabs, Mongols and gauchos all mounted and decked out in their colorful outfits. Other show stoppers included Chief Sitting Bull leading a band of 20 warriors, and sharp shooter Annie Oakley doing trick shots. Astounded audiences were also treated to a reenactment of Custer’s last stand, an attack
on a settler’s cabin.
Buffalo Bill continued to tour successfully before large crowds throughout America and in Europe, becoming one of the greatest showmen of all time. But the aging process that ultimately claims us all finally caught up with Cody, who had all but conquered the world with his personality and showmanship. One of his final performances was at Sioux Falls in 1912, where he was well-known and widely appreciated. He probably paid a visit to his friend, former Senator R. F. Pettigrew. If so, we can be assured that the two old frontiersmen shared a few nostalgic stories of their younger days in the Old West..
Wild West Poster ON THE STAGE COACH - The original Deadwood Coach, the most famous vehicle in history.
recipes 26
Summer Sweet Treats at home 28
The Josh and Desi Gaspar Home man in the kitchen 38
Libations, Sensations, That Stagger the Mind
thrifting home 40
The Thrill of the Find: How Psychology Shapes Your Thrifting Style the a list 42
Vintage Vibes
Summer Sweet Treats
Title
BY JO MCCLURE
Fruit Pizza
CRUST:
2 cups flour
1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
CREAM CHEESE LAYER:
8 ounce package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp almond extract
Combine the first three ingredients and pat into a 9x13 inch baking pan and bake at 350˚ for 13 minutes. Cool for an hour. Combine the next 5 ingredients and spread over the cooled crust. Top with your favorite sliced fruits. I use bananas, strawberries, grapes and mandarine oranges. If using bananas, be sure and dip the slices in lemon juice to prevent them from turning brown. Chill an hour before serving and store in the refrigerator. Serves 12-15.
Easy Peanut Butter Pie
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 chocolate ready-made pie crust
2 tsp chocolate syrup
Beat the cream cheese, peanut butter, sugar and vanilla until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping and spoon into the chocolate crust. Drizzle the top with chocolate syrup or peanut butter cups. Cover and freeze for 4-5 hours. Thaw 30 minutes before serving. Serves 6-8.
THE Josh AND Desi Gaspar HOME
BY MARY MICHAELS |
PRAIRIE PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTOS BY JULIE
Untilthree years ago, Josh and Desi Gaspar had been living in the Copper Creek addition on the east side of Sioux Falls. When they first built there, they enjoyed the feeling of being just on the edge of town, with not a lot around them. That quickly changed, however, with more single-family and multifamily housing popping up around them.
They had also discovered during COVID, as a family of six with both parents working from home, that their current house just wasn’t working for them anymore.
Wanting more space both inside a new home as well as land around the home, the couple started looking at lots. There was one north of Lake Alvin that they had driven by more than once, but they couldn’t see how a house would sit on the 2.75 acre space. However, all it took was having their builder, JJ Myott, tell them to drive into the development from the other direction, and suddenly, the vision was there.
The family worked with Jeren Homes to build the 6,200 square foot ranch walkout, with 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms and a fourstall garage. When the home was featured on the local Parade of Homes three years ago, the design style was described as “Scandinavian,” with its light colors, straight lines and modern light fixtures.
The majority of the home’s interior design was “all Desi,” according to Josh, although Desi is also quick to point out the features that were her husband’s idea. One thing they both agreed on was that the main floor needed to be spacious and functional for the family, with four kids ranging in age from 6 to 16.
“In addition to just having space for us as a family, we love to entertain,” says Desi, “so we
knew we wanted the living room, kitchen and dining area to be roomy enough for just every day or for when we’re hosting people for the holidays.”
The focal point in the living room is the fireplace wall with built-in shelves on one side
and a bench with seating on the other. The face of the fireplace combines patterned tile and a custom, chevron-style wood treatment that complements the pattern of the hood over the cooktop on the opposite wall.
The couple also knew they didn’t want just
an “ordinary” wood beam across the ceiling from the living room to the kitchen. The other wood accents in the main living space are light – including the flooring, the shelves and bench by the fireplace, the mantel and the range hood. So, they went with a dark-stained
wood beam on which the builder installed individual pieces of wood to create a unique textured effect.
Between the living room and kitchen is an island just for seating, with five chairs on each side. It’s the perfect place for kids to do
homework or for the family to enjoy a casual dinner while watching TV.
A separate island provides space for kitchen prep, with a sink and plenty of storage. The light quartz countertops are a bright contrast to the dark wood cabinets of the island and
the side wall – which includes a stacked double oven, wine fridge, more storage and both the refrigerator and a hidden pantry covered by tall cabinet doors. The cabinets surrounding the cooktop are white with black hardware, with the light-colored wood on
the hood in its chevron pattern adding more visual interest.
The hidden pantry was a huge bonus for the family.
“We are both minimalists,” says Desi. “We don’t like to have things out on the counters, so it’s great to have this space for small appliances, and the kids can come in and get snacks, and then we can close the door.”
The more formal dining room is a unique blend of geometry, with sharper angled lines in the black and grey wallpaper (picked out by Josh) and a circular swirl mirror in white.
“That mirror is something that came from our old house. We loved it and brought it with us. We weren’t sure where it would go at first, but it’s perfect here.”
The primary bedroom is on the main
floor, with navy walls and custom wood treatments behind the bed and on the ceiling. Montgomery Furniture assisted the couple in furnishing the house and helping with some of the furniture design. Sliding doors open to the deck that runs along the back side of the house overlooking the backyard and inground pool.
“We are so lucky because nothing else can
be built behind us,” Desi explains. “There are two houses back there, and we know those neighbors, but beyond that it will stay open because of Lake Alvin, which we can see when it rains and fills up.”
The ensuite bathroom features his and
hers water closets and sinks, a soaker tub and a walk-in shower with entrances from both sides – complete with two sets of fixtures so each person has it set for their height. The couple also has a spacious walk-in closet complete with washer and dryer.
Desi’s home office is also on the main floor, although they added a closet to the room so that it could be used as a bedroom. She picked a grey and silver flowered wallpaper for the space, which also has black custom woodwork on the lower half of the wall and built-in
bookcases on either side of the window.
Josh has an office in the lower level behind double French doors off the family room. The wallpaper he picked for the space looks like silver tile and provides a sleek backdrop for a wood carving of Lake Alvin and oak barrel tops representing his work in the wine and spirits industry. One of the kids’ favorite spaces downstairs is tucked away behind a swinging bookcase that opens to their “secret room” providing additional storage.
Because the four-stall garage has poured
floors, there is actually more square footage of living space on the lower level than upstairs. And speaking of the garage, it also has an attached room housing the family’s full-sized gym.
Their two oldest children, a girl and a boy, each have bedrooms with their own ensuite bathrooms. The two younger girls each have their own room and share a “Jill and Jill” bathroom. All four had a hand in choosing the wallpaper and design of their rooms. For the oldest, it was a black and white theme. For
their son, it was a cool space print. The two younger girls have the same floral mural paper with one choosing a pink accent wall and the other choosing teal.
“I love the wallpaper from Rifle,” says Desi. “I spent hours paging through all of the designs, and it is great quality.”
The kids also have their own laundry room on the lower level, complete with sorting stations for them to get everything washed, folded and ready to put away.
It’s great for the kids to have their own
space when they need it, but when the family wants to come together, they can gather in the multi-level media room for movie night or take some swings with the golf simulator, which has hidden storage off to the side for clubs and balls.
“We added this room to the design really because of COVID,” Desi says. “We didn’t have anything like this in our old house, so we have a lot of fun with it.”
The room is spacious enough to also hold a shuffleboard table and a dart board. And, the
design was intentionally made durable, with dark walls around the golf simulator and wood planks behind the dart board “just in case.”
For the adults, and for entertaining nights, the lower level also has a full bar stocked with a collection of Josh’s favorites as well as a wine cellar with no HVAC to ensure the bottles age well. The bar itself has full appliances, including a slushie maker for warm summer days.
With summer weather finally here, the family is enjoying time out back, with the pool, hot tub and firepit seating area.
“Building this house was so different from our previous house,” says Desi. “Knowing that this is going to be the home our kids all grow up in, and the house we want them to come back to once they are grown, we invested in things like a waterproof foundation, the poured floors in the garages to give us more space downstairs and spray foam insulation in the sound channel between the floors to help with noise. We’re so grateful to our builder and other partners who helped us create our dream home.”
Shop • Sell • Connect
Download the free Whatnot App and watch or shop Live-Streamed Auction Deals!
Discover unique finds from vintage treasures to clothing to trading cards in live-streamed auctions.
Explore a new way to shop collectibles and rare items through exciting live auctions.
• Follow Angelaell and Bookmark Shows
• If you are in the Sioux Falls area, choose LOCAL PICKUP and pay no shipping
I hope you will enjoy the vintage décor items I sell as much as I
I love the personal expression that comes from choosing unique items you love. Vintage finds are my favorite! I love nothing more than searching for treasures and then coming home and fussing and putzing — moving things here and there — and finding the best spots for each and every loved object. The smell of old books, the patina of a well-traveled piece of brass, a beautiful piece of pottery, a unique piece of original art…all amazing to me.
Libations, Sensations, That Stagger the Mind
BY JIM MATHIS
Earlier this year, I started experimenting with new cocktails, then posting pictures on the socials with the tag “Cocktails at Home with Jim & Kara.” Wow, did I strike a nerve! It seems everyone wants to join us for our weekly cocktails! So, I thought I’d share a few favorites with you, dear reader.
This started for a couple of reasons; first, I rediscovered how much I enjoy the act of mixing up a good cocktail. There’s a sense of Zen when you’re measuring out the ingredients, shaking or stirring to combine,
and then finding the right glassware and garnish. It’s more satisfying than simply pouring a glass of wine or popping the top on a Miller Lite. Second, I was getting in a bit of a rut. I kept going back to the same gin and tonic, bourbon on the rocks or glass of wine. I needed to broaden my horizons. Finally, at dinner one night with our dear friends Steve and Laurie; my beloved and I each ordered a Paper Plane. She loved it. I loved it, too. I’d had them before, and it seemed like one of those drinks you ordered out, but never make at home. I thought I’d give it a try.
Paper Plane
Paper Plane:
A Cocktail of Four Equal Parts
• 3/4-ounce bourbon
• 3/4-ounce Aperol
• 3/4-ounce Amaro Nonino Quintessentia
• 3/4-ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed
Add all ingredients to an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously and strain into coupe or cocktail glass. No garnish needed, but a “paper plane” of lemon or orange zest is a nice touch.
The Aperol Spritz:
An Italian Classic
• 3 ounces prosecco
• 2 ounces Aperol
• 1 ounce club soda
• Garnish: orange slice
Simply add the prosecco, Aperol and club soda to a wine glass filled with ice and stir, garnish with a slice of orange.
The White Linen:
From The Shady Lady Saloon in Sacramento to Your House
• 1 1/2-ounces gin
• 3/4-ounce elderflower liqueur (like St. Germaine)
• 1/2-ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/2-ounce simple syrup
• Sparkling water, to top
• Cucumber slices for mixing and garnish
Mix gin, lemon juice, syrup, liqueur and 3 cucumber slices in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until chilled. Strain into a glass, top with sparkling water and garnish with a cucumber slice.
We’ve also been making classic martinis, the Hugo Spritz, Negronis, and Boulevardiers, and I’m always looking for new, fun cocktails to try. Who’s up for cocktails at home? Cheers! Do yourself a favor, drink something good today.
When he’s not enjoying a refreshing craft cocktail at home, Jim runs ADwërks, a little advertising agency on the prairie.
The Aperol Spritz
The White Linen
THE THRILL OF THE FIND:
How Psychology Shapes Your Thrifting Style
BY BOBBI LYNN GAUKEL
On a recent lovely Saturday morning, I picked up my friend Kendra for a few hours of garage sale hunting. We had a blast chatting about life and seeing what hidden gems sellers had to offer. While I’ve known Kendra for quite awhile, what struck me that day was how thoughtful she was before making a purchase. Me? I usually buy something every time I go thrifting — whether I have a plan or not.
That contrast got me thinking: is our thrifting style rooted in psychology? I decided to do a little digging into how our brains influence our love (or indifference) toward secondhand shopping.
A Peek into Our Brains
Thrifting taps into a psychological concept called variable reward. You never know exactly what you’ll find—and that unpredictability is part of the thrill. Scoring a mid-century cabinet or the perfect vintage jacket triggers a dopamine hit—the “feel-good” brain chemical. It feels like ‘winning’ just often enough to keep you hooked.
A Means of Self-Expression
For many, thrifting is a way to express individuality. Whether you’re curating a funky outfit or styling a room, the odds of someone else owning the exact same piece are slim. That uniqueness feeds creative identity and personal style.
A Reflection of Your Values
Buying secondhand often aligns with values like sustainability, minimalism, and frugality. If you feel uneasy about overconsumption or your carbon footprint, thrifting can feel like a win for both the planet and your conscience.
A Source of Emotional Connection
Vintage finds often come with a dose of nostalgia. A Pyrex dish like your grandma’s or a vintage album you danced to in college can spark powerful memories. That emotional resonance adds meaning to your possessions in a way new items rarely do.
Kendra’s modern minimalist aesthetic.
Bobbi’s vintage maximalist vibe.
Even though psychology plays a role in thrifting, let’s be real—it’s not for everyone, and that’s okay. Curious if secondhand shopping is a good fit for you? Ask yourself some things:
1. Do you love the process, or just the product? Thrifting takes time. You dig, browse, maybe come back next week. If you enjoy the hunt as much as the find, you’re likely a natural thrifter. But if instant gratification is more your style, it might not spark the same joy.
2. Are you okay with imperfection? “Used” doesn’t mean damaged—but it usually means “pre-loved.” A scratch here, a stain there—it’s all part of the story. If you prefer pristine perfection, thrifting might feel more frustrating than fun.
3. Do you value stories over status? If you care more about soul than current trends, secondhand might be your vibe. You’re not buying brands—you’re buying stories.
4. Is sustainability important to you? If your heart beats a little
faster when you reuse, recycle, or upcycle, you’re already aligned with the secondhand lifestyle. For you, it’s not just shopping—it’s a statement.
5. Are you a natural curator? Some people see clutter; others see potential. If you love creating vignettes, styling spaces, or mixing eras, thrifting could be the perfect creative outlet.
Ultimately, secondhand shopping reflects who you are. It’s less about saving money and more about your mindset. If you’re curious, creative, and open to surprises, it might just be your thing.
And if not? That’s okay too.
In Kendra’s and my case, our thrifting styles differ—but our brains are wired similarly when it comes to the rewards of secondhand living. So go grab a friend, hit a thrift store or garage sale, and talk about your “why.” You might be surprised by what you discover—about both thrifting and yourself.
Neatly in Place
Maximize every inch of your kitchen with custom drawer organizers—designed to keep everything from utensils to spices neatly in place. Stop by Dakota Kitchen and Bath’s showroom at 4101 N. Hainje to see your options.
Pretty in Purple
Your little dancers will love the new arrivals at The Dance Line. Stop by to shop the large selection today. 2115 S. Minnesota Ave. (605) 335-8242.
New Schleich Bayala
Arriving Now
Kidtopia gets a new shipment every week - new Bayala coming in all the time - swing by to see all the newest characters! Dawley Farm Village, 901 S. Highline Pl., Sioux Falls. (605) 275-4825.
Calling All Sports Fans
We have something for everyone! Grab your favorite sports fan and create a keepsake! Color Me Mine. 3709 W. 41st St. (605) 362-6055.
Sioux Falls Local Best
Thank you for once again naming Julie Prairie Photography a Sioux Falls Local Best! We are so grateful for the many years and the countless clients. We’d love to hear from you if you are looking for a high school senior, family or commercial photographer. Visit the website at julieprairie.com or drop an email at jp@julieprairie.com.
Luverne, MN
Nutcracker Fest
July 9 - 12
Please see luvernechamber.com for complete list of events and times including free baseball game, country cover band concert, hot dog nite, half marathon, kids activities, weiner dog race & beauty pageant , 73- foot tall Nutcracker dedication and so much more!
Summers Extra Sweet
We bake your summer extra sweet with our famous mountain-sized cookies! We have over20 flavors of cookies in our case, baked fresh daily, that are sure to sweeten any picnic or gettogether! Grab a party tray for any backyard gatherings or ice cream cookie sandwiches to cool off on those hot July days! Call us to place an order or stop by either of our locations!
Mary’s Mountain Cookies. Downtown (605) 275-0060; South Cliff (605) 275-0062. www.siouxfallscookies.com.
Delicious Wine & Gifts
Swing out to Wilde Prairie Winery for a little fun in the country at their summer events, to enjoy some delicious wine and to shop their large selection of wine-themed giftware. wildprairiewinery.com 48052 259th Street Brandon, SD. (605) 582-6471.
63rd Annual
Luverne, MN
Hot Dog Nite
July 10 • 5pm
15,000 hot dogs & drinks given away throughout town. Kids activities, performances, dog beauty pageant, weiner dog race, live band and more! luvernechamber.com
Curated Vintage & Modern Day Treasures
Annie’s offers curated vintage and beautiful modern day treasures for your home. Also, unique spa brands and a baby department! 219 N. Main St, Salem, SD. Open Tues, Wed, Fri 9am - 5pm and Thurs 11am - 7pm, Sat 10am - 4pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.
The Best Choices!
Our Weathered finishing technique is unique. It opens up the soft grain portion of the Red Oak providing more depth and texture to your design. Weathered Snow further accentuates the open grain by adding a light colored glaze. Visit our showroom today for a complimentary design and ask one of our friendly designers about these choices from StarMark Cabinetry. Today’s StarMark Custom Cabinetry. 600 E. 48th Street N. (605) 977-3660.
New Location!
We have moved to our location - 5303 W. 41st Street - on the corner of 41st and Marion. Junk in the Trunk is a one-of-a-kind furniture and home décor store. Pre-owned, vintage, upcycled and custommade home furnishings. There’s truly something for everyone at Junk in the Trunk. (605) 338-5510.
friends& family
BY JESS WEISCHEDEL
Kids Will Love Summer Painting Activities
Summer is the perfect season to lean into creativity, make a little mess, and let kids explore art in ways that feel like play. With longer days and warmer weather, it’s an ideal time to head outside for some fun, slightly chaotic, and completely kid-approved painting activities.
Bubble Paint Prints
What You’ll Need:
Cups or bowls
Washable paint
Dish soap Water
Straws (one per child)
White paper or cardstock
A protected outdoor space or washable surface
(Caution with the littlest ones, as they may tend to suck in instead of blow out through the straw. )
How to Do It:
Mix a few tablespoons of paint, a squeeze of dish soap, and a splash of water into a cup. Stir well. Using the straw, have your child blow into the mixture (not suck!) until bubbles rise over the top.
Gently press a piece of paper onto the bubbles so they transfer their shape and pop onto the surface.
Let it dry and admire the unexpected designs! Feel free to get rid of the paper canvas all together and just have fun blowing colorful bubbles from the paint and soap mixtures using the straws. This one can get messy fast since painted fingers, splattered shirts, and bubbles floating away are all part of the experience. It might not result in frame-worthy art every time, but the fun is in the process, not the perfection!
Rubber Band Paint Splatter
What You’ll Need:
A foil baking pan, plastic container, or shallow cardboard box
Large rubber bands
Washable paint
Paintbrushes or cotton swabs
Paper
Optional: Aprons or old t-shirts to catch any flying paint.
How to Do It:
Stretch rubber bands around the outside of the pan so they cross the open top like strings on a guitar.
Place a piece of paper inside the bottom of the pan. If you don’t have paper that fits, simply cut it to size or leave it and make it work. This is not supposed to be precise!
Use paintbrushes to coat the top of each rubber band with paint, being careful not to drip onto the paper from the brush.
Let your child pull back and snap the bands, sending paint splattering onto the paper below. A word of the wise: paint will also splatter onto the person above, so wear what’s appropriate and don’t get too close!
Final Tips for Success
Do these activities outside if you can so there is less cleanup and more freedom to get messy.
Set up a “drying zone” to lay the paper out safely. Keep wipes, a hose, or a bucket of soapy water nearby to rinse off hands and tools quickly.
Art with kids doesn’t need to be perfect or polished. It just needs to be fun! So embrace the mess, laugh through the chaos, and enjoy making summer memories together, one colorful splatter at a time.
We are available for adoption at the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society unless noted.
Miss Mädchen, best friend of Spot
Reed & Salem, best friends of Nicki
Ziggy, best friend of Lisa and Mark Zerfas
Pocket & Sox -best friends of Tammy &Jeff
and our unexpected wedding guest
Each month we will choose and feature cute pets. Your pet could be next, so send in a picture today.
Email your photo – just one per pet – to etc.mag@sio.midco.net. Please make sure they are high-resolution photos (the highest setting on your camera). Include in email: pet’s name and owner’s name. Pet owners must own the rights to all submitted photos.
Furever Homes
Oden, new best friend of Mike & Amy
Simba, best friend of Callie
Wiese
“Miss Peeps!”
