November 2025
Volume 24 • Issue 12
Celebrate the Holidays in Luverne
DECEMBER 6,
$5 admission (children 12 & under – FREE)
&
2 p.m. HOLIDAY FAMILY MOVIE FREE Historic Palace Theatre 104 East Main Street
4:30 p.m. WELCOME SANTA & MRS. CLAUS ON ELLIS & EASTERN’S SANTA TRAIN Omaha Depot 106 East Fletcher Street
5-6:30 p.m. PORTRAITS WITH SANTA & MRS. CLAUS
Taken on-stage at the Historic Palace Theatre
Cookies & Chocolate Milk 4-8 p.m. STROLL THE NIGHT ON MAIN
• Holiday shopping, treats & eats and specials
• Carolers
• Ice Princess, Ice Queen, The Mean One & Miss Cindy from 5 to 7 pm
• Live music with “The Jangles” at Take 16 from 5 to 7 pm 7 p.m. LIGHT THE NIGHT AT LUVERNE CITY PARK (all lighted displays turned on) NOVEMBER 30, 2025
NO VEM BER 2025
Sioux Falls’ Favorite Women’s Magazine
cookies You’ll Fall For
From Friday night football tailgates to fall family festivals, 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!
calendar 8
November 2025
history 14
West Sioux Falls
concierge 18
Elevated Design, Exceptional Service: The Billie Arthur Design Studio
concierge 22
Stitching Together a Small-Town Legacy
out & about
November 2025
St. Michael Parish Bazaar Concessions, Bake Sale and Holy Fudge
Saturday, November 1
9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
1600 S. Marion Road
Enter doors D and F
Over 40 vendors with gift shopping galore, concessions stand for breakfast and lunch and bake sale with Holy Fudge!
The Fab Four Beatles Tribute Saturday, November 1 7:30 p.m.
The Orpheum Theater
If you want to experience the best Beatles tribute ever, you won’t want to miss The Fab Four – The Ultimate Tribute. The 2025 tour brings their all – new show to the stage, celebrating The Beatles’ second film, HELP!, with performances from the movie soundtrack, as well as the Beatles’ greatest hits of every era.
The Good Night Theatre Collective Presents The Rocky Horror Show Saturday, November 1 Washington Pavilion
BLACK Market
NOV 1-2 | DEC 6-7 | FEB 7-8 | MAR 7-8 | APRIL 11-12
Indoor Member event featuring over 130 exhibits! Saturday 9am - 5pm & Sunday 10am - 3pm
In honor of our 10th anniversary, Good Night decided it’s finally time to revisit a musical from our first five seasons — one of our classic ICON Lounge shows that we’re dying to reimagine right here in the Belbas Theater! It’s one that’s been requested over and over since we did it back in 2019, and we’re bringing it back for you in 2025 — by popular demand, and just in time for Halloween weekend, it’s The Rocky Horror Show!
Masters of Illusion
Friday, November 7
7:30 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
Starring the world’s greatest award-winning magicians, this 21st century magic show is unlike anything you have seen before – filled with modern illusions and arts of deception, performed live on stage. Watch closely as you experience things that just can’t be done…… or can they?
Fellowship Jazz Center Orchestra: The Evolution of Swing Friday, November 7 7:30 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
The Fellowship Jazz Center Orchestra returns to the stage with The Evolution of Swing in America—an unforgettable evening of music tracing the rich history and vibrant transformation of swing.
From its early 20th-century roots to its explosive influence on American culture, this dynamic performance will capture the rhythm, melody, and timeless energy that continue to make swing so irresistible.
Junk in the Trunk Christmas Open House November 8-9 Junk in the Trunk 1918 W. 41st St. Shop the large selection
of holiday decor, enjoy hot apple cider and cookies and register for prizes!
Fiber Fun at the Old Courthouse Museum Sunday, November 9 1-4 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street
Do you like to knit, crochet, needlework, 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
U.S. Olympic Team Trials: Curling November 11-16
All Day
Beatles VS Stones — A Musical Showdown
Friday, November 14 7:30 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
Two of the greatest bands of all time face off in a highenergy, adrenaline-pumping musical showdown. The Fab Four, represented by tribute band Abbey Road will engage in a barrage of hits against premier Rolling Stones tribute band
be held from November 11-16, Siouxland Heritage Museums
November 14-16 & November 20-23
Thurs, Fri & Sat: 7 p.m. Sunday: 2 p.m. Palace Theatre
NOVEMBER 14-16 & 20-23, 2025
Rodney Carrington LIVE
Sunday, November 16
7 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
Rodney Carrington is a multi-talented comedian, actor, singer and writer playing sold-out shows around the world as one of the top 10 highest-grossing touring comedians for the past two decades.
Rosemaling
Demonstration at the Old Courthouse Museum
Tuesday, November 18 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 second-floor
hallway. Stop in any time for a demonstration or to ask questions!
INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Behind the Scenes Tour of the Irene Hall Museum Resource Center
Thursday, November 20 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 work areas. Space is limited, call (605) 367-4210 to register, $5. siouxlandmuseums.com
Little River Band
Friday, November 21
7 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
Little River Band garnered huge chart success with multi-platinum albums and chart-topping hits in the 70’s and 80’s. Their worldwide album, CD, and digital downloads amass to more than 350 million. LRB continues to deliver distinctive harmonies and vocal abilities under the direction of 44 year LRB veteran, lead vocalist and bass player Wayne Nelson.
South Dakota Symphony Orchestra: An American in Paris
Saturday, November 22
7:30 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
What does a blend of symphonic and jazz music sound like? Find out with the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra, Jazz giant Chick Corea’s Concerto for Trombone, Duke Ellington’s Black, Brown and Beige Suite, and Gershwin’s timeless classic An American in Paris!
Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
Tuesday, November 25
7 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
Holiday Wonderland! A thrilling blend of world-class circus artistry and your favorite holiday music, this spectacular production will transport you to a winter wonderland of awe and enchantment.
33rd Annual Parade of Lights
Friday, November 28 7:30 p.m.
Phillips Avenue –Downtown Sioux Falls
This holiday season, experience the magic of cirque like never before with the all-new Cirque Musica
Kick off the holiday season in dazzling style at the 33rd Annual Parade of Lights, a cherished Downtown Sioux
Falls tradition! Gather with friends and family along Phillips Avenue to watch beautifully lit floats, festive music, and holiday magic light up the night.
The Hegg Brothers at the Old Courthouse Museum Winter Concert Series Friday, November 28 Noon to 1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street
The Hegg Brothers will perform in the historic courtroom of the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
Christmas with C.S. Lewis
Saturday, November 29: 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 30: 2 p.m.
Washington Pavilion In the early years of his
young adult life, C.S. Lewis believed the story of Christ’s birth was nothing more than feel-good myth. That all changed after a particular encounter with his great friend and fellow author, J.R.R. Tolkien. Although both men loved mythology in general, Tolkien was convinced that the Jesus myth was the one true myth. That was the start of Lewis’ journey from Atheism to Christianity. From that point on Christmas, for Lewis, took on an entirely different meaning. Here we find him at his home near Oxford on Christmas Eve hosting a group of Americans who are Christmassing in England. They will discover how that encounter with Tolkien forever changed his Christmas celebrations. A Live Conversation with Chevy Chase Following
A Showing of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Saturday, November 29 7:30 p.m.
Washington Pavilion Join us for an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer and laughs as we celebrate the timeless classic, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, with a special screening of
the film followed by a live conversation and Q&A with Chevy Chase, and his wife Jayni.
Santa Train & Light the Night
carolers, and Light the Night at Luverne City park at 7pm. See luvernechamber.com for schedule.
West Sioux Falls
By Wayne Fanebust
Ifyou drive north on Burnside Street from its intersection with the west 6th Street, toward Madison Avenue, you would be motoring on a street that was once called the “Pike.” And once you reach Madison Avenue, you would be in the heart of a neighborhood that is commonly referred to as West Sioux Falls. Unlike its counterparts South Sioux Falls and East Sioux Falls, West Sioux Falls was never an incorporated city, but for
decades it was considered a prominent and popular suburb of Sioux Falls.
The land that became West Sioux was deeded to James H. Stephenson in 1872, by the U. S. government. It was a 640 acre plot of land in Section 7 of Sioux Falls Township. Stephenson’s name has been largely forgotten because big chunks of the 640 acre plot changed hands many times after 1872. By a deed dated December 20, 1888, Evan B. and
Idalene Meredith purchased 240 acres of Section 7, which was designated as Meredith’s first addition, marking the beginning of West Sioux Falls.
Evan B. Meredith quickly emerged as one of the first boomers and builders of the suburb, selling lots to home and business owners. His name is associated with the first park, first school and first church. Other enterprises including an oatmeal factory, a machine
works and the Ritner Carriage Works were built near the north entrance of what is now the Sioux Empire Fairgrounds. These were all destroyed by a cyclone in May of 1895, and never rebuilt.
The storm, however, did nothing to stall the West Sioux community as they were pioneers and were made of stern stuff. That included Meredith and his wife. The couple, along with the Sioux Falls Board of Education, created the Meredith School in West Sioux. A wooden, two room school was constructed and when it opened its doors in the fall of 1892, twenty-nine students from 25 families enrolled in Meredith School.
Rev. Clayton F. Smith, born and raised in West Sioux Falls, and thereafter a prominent resident of Sioux Falls, experienced a long
and interesting association with West Sioux Falls. Moreover he was enrolled as a student at Meredith School in 1929. Clayton poured over records and interviewed residents, teachers, students and others all of which are included in his book: The West Sioux Story Clayton included a number of humorous anecdotes in his narrative, many of which define the lives of West Sioux Falls people, including school kids. For example, discipline of students was much more physical than it is today. The punishment for bringing a toad or snake into the classroom was an act beyond the pale. Offenders were spanked or had their mouths washed out with an especially terrible tasting soap. That, and other experiences had lifetime consequences.
Meredith School saw students come and
go until the end of the 1931-32 school year. It was then that the building was in such bad shape that it was deemed to be unsuitable for students. It remained empty and unwanted until it was torn down. In 1955, it was replaced by a new school named Jane Adams, the noted woman who was conspicuously involved in lecturing about social problems.
Outside of the classroom, Clayton recalled that there was a “town pump“ located at the intersection of Garfield and Bailey Streets. Not only was the town pump the source of water for drinking, bathing and other purposes, it was an important point of reference in the community it served. As people gathered there to hand pump a bucket or two of water, they took time to greet one another and engage in conversation on subjects of interest to each
Meredith School
other. The pump was the source of water until the Sioux Falls Water Department extended its line into West Sioux Falls.
Another institution that Clayton wrote about with passion and substance was the establishment of a church in West Sioux Falls. On June 28, 1891, a Baptist church was chartered and established with 33 members, who on that day, voted to name the church Beulah Baptist Church. That small frame house of worship has managed to survive the ravages of time and is today, one of the most
prominent features of old West Sioux. West Sioux Falls became a destination of sorts for people in the surrounding area. Curious folks were drawn to the area to fish in the Big Sioux River, take a dive in the old swimming hole, play golf at Elmwood golf course, have fun at the West Soo Amusement Park, or play baseball with visiting teams from Sioux Falls. And who could forget West Sioux Hardware? Not only could people stop by for a hammer and nails, they were treated to a large number of stuffed animals, all of which
were killed by Henry Brockhouse, owner of the store and ardent trophy hunter.
But the grandest thing to do was undoubtedly watching the barnstorming pilots land their airplanes on the flat ground next to Covell Lake. Following World War I, pilots acquired discarded planes, called “Jenny’s,” and made a living by taking passengers for $5.00 rides. West Sioux was one of their stops. Folks looked on in wonder as the planes made a wobbling ascent over Covell Lake. Breathless onlookers thought
Beulah Baptist Church
the planes would not clear the steeples of St. Joseph Cathedral.
The precarious flight maneuver was probably less severe than the landing of the plane. The pilots were seriously challenged to bring it down safely. The rickety planes noticeably bounced as they struck the surface, often cracking a landing gear. Oh yes, it took
a brave man to climb into the cockpit for an airplane ride, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Rev. Clayton Smith recalled that as a small boy, he and a friend witnessed a plane crash that took a pilot’s life. Yes, West Sioux was an exciting place to visit.
As time went on, ordinary growth meant that the city and its suburb had at last merged.
All the farmland in between the two entities had given way to development. The “Pike” became Burnside Street, named after a mayor who somehow managed to stay in that office for 26 years. It remains a well-traveled street and old West Sioux Falls will always be a wellremembered neighborhood and a treasured part of local history.
BY MARY MICHAELS
Billand Carolyn Hinks have been helping people turn houses into homes for nearly half a century through Furniture Mart USA.
With over 50 locations in six states, Furniture Mart USA became a leader in meeting customers’ home furnishing needs with quality, name-brand furniture at affordable prices. Even with the growth and “busyness” of their business, Carolyn had a vision for the next evolution of their family venture.
Her vision came from decades of experience in the furniture and design industry and focused on what she felt was missing in the Sioux Falls region - a destination for luxury home furnishings along with elevated, personal service.
From her vision that a home should be as thoughtfully designed as the life lived within it came Billie Arthur Design Studio, which is a store-within-a-store at Furniture Mart U.S.A.
Choosing “Billie Arthur” as the store’s name honors Bill, whose family still occasionally uses his childhood nickname.
More than just a showroom, Billie Arthur Design Studio is an experience. The design was thoughtfully and carefully created to set a mood and transport customers into a world of style and sophistication.
Your experience starts with a consultation with a member of the Billie Arthur design team, which includes in-house designers and preferred design partners who provide personalized guidance.
Whether you are just looking to update furnishings or have a larger interior design project, the team ensures you have their full attention. Design choices are unique and personal, and furnishing your home is an investment that you want to get right. However, the sheer volume of colors, fabrics, textures, styles and finishes can be very overwhelming. That is why Billie Arthur created Selection Suites, which are private rooms filled with fabric swatches and vendor catalogs to provide
inspiration. You’ll have options with furnishings from both longtime Furniture Mart vendors as well as new ones offered exclusively through Billie Arthur. As you spend time in the Selection Suite, you can indulge in a complimentary beverage from their bar along with curated snacks while your design team member will talk with you about your needs and your style, covering every detail from your initial design selections to delivery.
Bill and Carolyn Hinks also created Billie Arthur to provide a space for elevated gatherings - a hub for community engagement ranging from “wine and design” nights or educational workshops to private client events and industry networking opportunities. For example, in recent weeks they held a fall floral design class and a conversation night with Cambria Quartz. The Cambria event offered an opportunity for clients to dive into the world of quartz and get expert tips on selecting
Hours: Sunday – Appointment Only Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
140 E. Hinks Lane
Sioux Falls, SD 57108 (605) 681-2864 www.billiearthur.com
the perfect surface for every area of your home.
Carolyn, Bill and the entire team understand that your home tells a story, and through Billie Arthur, they want to help clients write that story through their exceptional furnishings and one-ofa-kind service.
Be sure to follow Billie Arthur Design Studio on social media to stay up-to-date on their latest design news and upcoming events.
Stitching Together
A SMALL-TOWN LEGACY
BY MARY MICHAELS
Alcesteris a small town tucked away in the “kick stand” of South Dakota - a town of about 800, that not only has the charm of rural life, but also boasts big dreams for two high school sweethearts.
Todd and Brenda Hakl have called Alcester home their entire lives. They grew up here, married after high school and raised their girls to do the same. It was only fitting they built more dreams together in 2019 and brought the family together to help.
At that time, Todd was looking for a commercial storefront for his business and thought it would be a great opportunity for Brenda to move her long-arm quilter off the acreage and into the big city. While they found a property that was the right size and in the right price range, it needed some TLC. Perhaps it was a little more than just TLC, because Kim refers to the time as “four intense
months of gutting and remodeling.”
But from that labor of love, Sew Storm Quilt Shop opened its doors in March 2020. That date probably sounds familiar...it was the start of COVID.
“My mom turned the key for an exciting new adventure, only to be slapped in the face by a world pandemic,” Kim recalls. “And there I was, working for the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, knowing nothing about sewing or the quilting world. But I knew a lot about computers and social media. In September, I simply asked her, ‘Do you want to make this shop famous?’”
By the end of October, Kim took a career hiatus and jumped all-in to help.
Sew Storm Quilt Shop opened with 200 bolts of fabric and the long-arm quilting machine. While that certainly seems substantial, the store now boasts an impressive
Hours
Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Sunday - Closed
Sew Storm Quilt Shop 114 East 2nd Street Alcester, SD
605-934-2300
admin@sewstormquilting.com www.sewstormquilting.com
5,000 different bolts of fabric, and they have doubled the original square footage. While the cotton fabric prints are primarily used for quilting, Kim and Brenda say the creativity of their customers is endless, as they use the fabrics for all kinds of sewing projects. For those familiar with sewing, Kim highlights brands they carry, such as Moda Fabrics, Robert Kaufman Fabrics, Maywood Studios and Riley Blake Designs, among others.
She adds that they’re fortunate to have fabric reps come to Sew Storm at least every quarter with swatches and books so they can keep new things coming to the store. They also get feedback from customers if there are particular colors, designs or products they’d like to see. The mother and daughter duo have also gotten to know other stores in the area, so that if one store has a particular niche, they won’t order “competing” fabrics.
The store is filled with other accessories and notions to make quilting and sewing projects complete, including Shannon Cuddle minky fabrics, flannel, threads, pre-cuts, needles (and needle-threaders!), rulers, scissors, rotary cutters and everything else you can possibly think of to make your crafty projects a success. The store is also one of three in the state to be Kimberbell certified, bringing access to products and expertise for machine embroidery projects. Everything in the store is available on their website, allowing Sew Storm to ship both nationally and internationally, which has already grown to all 50 states and at least 18 countries. You can also find free patterns on the website, so you can try your own project like a reading pillow, a table set with runner and placemats or even quilts of all sizes.
While Kim has had a full-on immersion course in sewing and quilting, she also seems to be doing well on delivering on her promise
she made to Brenda to “make the store famous.”
“I can remember how excited I was when we hit 1,000 followers on Facebook,” Kim says.
“Now we have more than 4,000 followers, and our videos have anywhere from 3,000 to 10,000 views. Our weekly Friday Features are especially popular.”
Their popularity extends to in-person events as well, with occasional “Shop Hops,” which bring busloads of people to half a dozen stores in the area.
“It’s pretty incredible,” says Kim. “You get seven charter buses, each with 40 to 50 women of all ages. They’re giggling and telling stories just like they were back in high school.”
What’s even more special than the simple fact that these fabric fans are shopping in all of the stores is that they are sharing knowledge and stories with one another.
“There are experienced quilters sharing
tips with those just starting out or women talking about projects they have sewn to give as special gifts, and it is just heart-warming to see those relationships form,” Kim says.
With the holidays approaching, Brenda and Kim have the store ready for everyone planning to make special holiday gifts or decor. They invite everyone to come down for Small Business Saturday, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, to check out all their offerings and enjoy some holiday treats.
Be sure to sign up for the Sew Storm Quilt Shop newsletter and connect with them on social media (Facebook, Instagram and YouTube) to stay up to date with all the latest products and events. This place is “sew” much more than just a store. Brenda has been sewing up a storm since she was in high school (hence the store’s name!), and her love and passion for it is passed along to each quilter and sewer she meets.
Three Ingredient Truffles at home 26
Let’s Thrift a Capsule Wardrobe man in the kitchen 40
Thanksgivng Traditions
vino 42
Master of Wine
Three Ingredient Truffles
Title
BY JO MCCLURE
I love making truffles! And now there are now so many flavors of Oreo cookies to choose from...the sky is the limit!
1 pound any flavor sandwich cookies
8 ounces cream cheese at room temp
1 pound melting chocolate
Use a food processor and grind the cookies to a fine powder. Use a mixer and blend the cookie powder with cream cheese until there are no traces of the white cream cheese. Shape into small balls and place on waxed paper lined cookie sheet and refrigerate for an hour.
Melt the chocolate in a double boiler and dip the truffles and coat thoroughly. Place on cookie sheet to set the chocolate. Drizzle with chocolate to decorate if you wish. Refrigerate if not eating that day.
Enjoy!
A LOOK ATLyon View
BY MARY MICHAELS
Noteveryone can say their home came with a name, but Ted and Liz Heeren can.
When they moved into the All Saints Neighborhood back in 2007, their house proudly displayed its name on the exterior –Lyon View.
Their next-door neighbors, also in the row across from Lyon Park, were Green Gables and Pine Terrace.
“Not only did we love this old house when we saw it, but we also loved the names,” says Liz. “It gives the neighborhood identity and something that links everyone together.”
She credits a former neighbor, Mel Spinar, with starting the house-naming tradition. Spinar passed away earlier this year, Liz says, but the tradition is continuing, as one other neighbor has named their house, and a couple of others “might be thinking about it.”
Although the house was functional when they moved in, Liz describes the interior as “dated.”
“There was a lot of tan and mauve,” she says with a smile, “along with thick, shaggy carpet and early 90s wallpaper, including a grapevine motif in the kitchen.”
However, the dining room was uncarpeted when they moved in, so the Heerens knew that hard wood floors existed underneath. Pulling up all the carpeting was at the top of their to-do list.
“It’s remarkable how long real hardwood floors hold up,” Liz says. “The quality of the craftsmanship in Prairie-style homes like this is what drew us in to begin with. And, having durable floors has certainly been a benefit while raising our son and adding a dog and a cat.”
The kitchen received a complete remodel with the help of local artist and woodworker Edward Thompson. The Heerens chose Mahogany for the shaker-style, flat-front cabinets, and Thompson added a patina copper insert into the grooves of the cabinet doors to eliminate the need for hardware.
“I’m Scandinavian, so I like natural finishes without a lot of embellishments,” says Liz.
You can see the Scandinavian influence in the way everything aligns just right in the kitchen. To add a little softness, though, there are touches like the rounded hood over the cooktop and one rounded edge on the small island that is topped with slate from the old high school in Madison. Other slate panels were placed on a wall to create a family chalkboard.
Sometimes Liz will do seasonal chalk sketches and at other times, the space is used for family projects or their son Sylvester’s homework.
As the daughter of two artists – her parents are Jim and Mary Groth – Liz says the best thing their home has going for it is the incredible variety of art displayed throughout.
“We have been very fortunate to have been gifted art over the years, and we’ve also
of South Dakota’s art department and is also the Director of Ipso Gallery at Fresh Produce, where Ted is co-owner and creative director.
“Within the art community, there is so much sharing and trading,” she explains. “I traded art for our dining room set, or we’ll trade our art for another person’s art. It’s such a great way to not only support each other as artists but also to change up décor in the house.”
The ever-changing collection of art “on rotation” at the Heeren home is why they have kept most of the woodwork white and the walls off white.
“I’m not so much about brightly colored walls, but rather a wall that can feature a brightly colored piece of art.”
Liz explains how a piece of art doesn’t have to be permanently located in one spot in a home.
“With furniture, you usually purchase it for a specific room and to support the function of that room,” she says. “Furniture is arranged to
TRANSFORM LIVING SPACES INTO LEGACIES
support how you move around the house, so oftentimes, it’s fairly fixed in its position. But with art, you can completely refresh a room by taking all the art down and rethinking the placement. Maybe take a picture that was in the living room and move it to a bedroom or take a piece of pottery from the bedroom and put it in the kitchen. When you move art to a new space, you may see the art differently, and you might even experience the room in a new way.”
Art can add a touch of drama, serenity or whimsy, Liz adds. And, when it’s art that comes from someone you know – like the pieces she has gotten that her parents made – or from someplace you have been, you create what she calls “records of relationship.” Memories. The pieces in the Heeren home certainly evoke all of those emotions. The focal point of the dining room is a striking wind chimelike chandelier they commissioned from local artist Steve Bormes. One wall has a collection
of art prints, including a large woodcut print of the moon that Liz says is her favorite piece in the house, and another wall has a vintage yearling buffalo head named Frenchie from an old train depot in the 1800s. Along the window ledge are a collection of glass bowls filled with carnivorous plants.
“I love carnivorous plants,” Liz admits. “They are so interesting. Before our son was born, we were hoping for a boy who would be a naturalist, and that’s what we got. We
once took a trip to North Carolina to find a particular insect, and we also saw the natural habitat of the Venus flytrap.”
The Heerens chose the name Sylvester for their son, now 14, because it comes from the Latin silvestris, meaning “of the forest” or “keeper of the forest.” In his room upstairs, jars of rocks and shells collected from family trips in their camper van sit on a shelf. A large painting of a nature scene painted by Liz’s cousin hangs over the bed, and Sylvester has
a bright airy space connected to his room to hang out in – a space they call “the treehouse.”
“This originally was an exterior deck,” Liz explains. “But it was rotting. So, we fixed it and enclosed it so that he has room to relax in the big bean bag chair and read or to practice his violin.”
Connected by French doors to the treehouse is another small room that Liz uses as a home office and studio.
“Ted is musical and has a radio show, so he
has a recording studio in the basement,” says Liz. “This is my space, and Sylvester has the treehouse. We love spending time together as a family, but then we also each have our spaces to go be creative.”
The spacious primary bedroom upstairs is unusual for a century-old home. But one thing that is still true to character for old homes, says Liz with a laugh, is that they have the “tiniest closets in the world.”
Two of her own paintings hang in their
“Just like the art inside their home, the people they have met in this All Saints Neighborhood created longstanding “records of relationship.” Memories.
room – one of her and one of Ted.
“I did these in grad school. He likes the one of me, and I like the one of him. So, we decided to just hang them both in here.”
Having met while she was in grad school, Liz admits that she often asked Ted to be her model.
The couple remodeled the bathrooms in the home, including the one upstairs that had brown walls and pink tiles when they moved in. Instead, they went with black and white, with a new tub that they tiled in, and they also added cabinetry for extra storage. On that shelf sits a pop of red color – a Scandinavian horse and pair of candlesticks.
While the Heerens have truly settled into this old home over the years and made it their own with updates here and there and art pieces that span mediums and styles, the house’s character still carries its history.
In addition to the hardwood floors, the Heerens kept the original staircase with its rich,
Christmas Open House
Saturday & Sunday, November 8 & 9
Shop our large selection of holiday decor, enjoy hot apple cider and cookies and register for prizes!
warm wood and the little built-in bench on the landing beneath stained-glass windows. They have also worked on maintaining the unique terraced garden in front of the house, learning more about what was already there and adding more plants native to South Dakota.
“Being just a couple of blocks from downtown, we moved into this house with the optimism that downtown would flourish,” Liz said. “It has taken some time, but the development has been wonderful. Lyon Park was renovated about four years after we moved in, which was great for us with Sylvester. We watched and waited for years for the opening of the State Theatre, and now downtown is flourishing. We love being so close to it.”
She adds that the neighbors are also a big reason why Lyon View has been their home all these years. Just like the art inside their home, the people they have met in this All Saints Neighborhood created longstanding “records of relationship.” Memories.
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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 fees
I hope you will enjoy the vintage décor items I sell as much as I do.
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. Bookmark My Shows and Join the Fun!
November 1 & 2
Expo Building at the WH Lyon Fairgrounds
The Black Market is formerly Benson’s Flea Market. You will find everything you can imagine, big and little, old and new, heavy and light! As the longestrunning indoor variety market in South Dakota, we offer a nostalgic experience sure to bring back memories from childhood, stimulate excitement and provide hours of entertainment.
Organization Made Beautiful
Adjustable pegs let you create a tailored fit for plates, bowls, and more — a Dakota touch of everyday luxury. Stop by and see what we can do for you. Dakota Kitchen and Bath, 4101 N. Hainje Avenue.
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.
Seasonal Favorites
Stop by Color Me Mine and paint a piece that is sure to be seasonal favorite. A keepsake created with love to use from year to year. Color Me Mine. 3709 W. 41st St. (605) 362-6055.
Sweater Season
The Dance Line carries to cutest lines of dance gear - including even the perfect outfit for sweater season! New arrivals weekly. Thank you for shopping local. The Dance Line. 2115 S. Minnesota Ave. (605) 335-8242.
Christmas Open House
November 8 -9
Shop the large selection of holiday décor, enjoy hot apple cider and cookies and register for prizes! Junk in the Trunk. 1918 W. 41st St. (605) 338-5510.
Christmas Shopping
What better spot to do your Christmas shopping than at The Christmas Haus at the Rock County History Center? Take in the enormous collection of nutcrackers and shop for unique items for everyone on your holiday shopping list.
312 E. Main St., Luverne, MN. (507) 283-2122.
November 14 & 15
Friday 4-7 pm & Saturday 9-4 pm
Ramkota Exhibit Hall
Kick off your holiday shopping at Junkin’ Market Days where you’ll discover 100 small businesses offering the best in: shabby chic home decor, rustic furniture & vintage finds, handmade jewelry & boutique clothing, candles bath & body products , gourmet food antiques & more.
Santa Train & Light the Night Sunday, November 30 • 2pm - 7pm • Luverne, MN
Free holiday family movie, welcome Santa & Mrs. Claus on Ellis & Eastern’s Santa Train, portraits with Santa & Mrs. Claus, live music, carolers, and Light the Night at Luverne City park at 7pm. See luvernechamber.com for schedule.
NOW OPEN!
Revel Kitchen & Cocktails is a fun and new familyfriendly now open in Luverne, MN. You’ll enjoy Smash Burgers, Hand-Breaded Chicken, Bracco Fish Tacos, Steak, Pasta, Salads, Cocktails, and more! 107 E. Main St., Luverne, MN. (507) 220-5600. reveldining.com
Winter Jellycats
Look at them! Are you looking at them? How cute - with a matching book! Shop local and snatch these little cuties up before they are gone! Kidtopia. Dawley Farm Village. 901 S Highline Pl. (605) 275-4825.
Cookies for Fall Y’all!
We bake cookies you’ll fall for! Mary’s Mountain Cookies offers many options for your special gatherings, including party trays and 12” decorated celebration cookies. We bake over 20 flavors of cookies daily, and can cater to events of any size. Our fall flavors include Pumpkin Chocolate Chip, Espresso, and Molasses Chia. 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.
A New Level of Sophistication
We’re excited to introduce StarMark Cabinetry’s Shoshone textured reeded door, which brings a new level of sophistication to any living space. This door style masterfully balances modern texture with timeless elegance, creating a visually stunning focal point that elevates the entire room aesthetic.
600 E 48th St North, Sioux Falls. (800) 594-9444
Let’s Thrift a
CAPSULE WARDROBE
I’ve been wearing a mostly thrifted wardrobe for quite a few years now — and I don’t want to brag, but I think I’ve gotten pretty good at it. I was chatting about this recently when a good friend (who’s also a freelance designer) admitted that she’s too overwhelmed to think about thrifting but would love a fall/winter
BY BOBBI LYNN GAUKEL
capsule wardrobe. Then we had a brilliant idea: I should shop for her. At first, it sounded like great fun.
What I didn’t realize is that shopping for someone else’s wardrobe is, well, a tiny bit difficult. Sure, I had her size and a Pinterest board full of inspiration. What else could I
possibly need to nail it, right?
For starters, thrift stores don’t exactly stock Pinterest boards. After several rounds of trial and error — and about three weeks of combing through local shops — I finally gathered nine pieces that could form the foundation of her capsule wardrobe.
So, what is a capsule wardrobe? In short, it’s a small collection of versatile, interchangeable clothing pieces that can be mixed and matched to create many different outfits. The goal is an easy-to-wear, cohesive wardrobe that fits the season and simplifies getting dressed.
For my friend’s capsule, I found:
• One pair of denim pants
• One pair of wide-leg “stretchy” pants
• One thick knitted vest
• One menswear-style striped shirt
• One classic denim shirt
• Two cardigan sweaters (we’re Midwesterners, after all)
• One long-length puffer vest for those sort-of-nice, sort-of-not days
• One oversized fair isle sweater
At first glance, I was pretty pleased with my haul — though I was a little unsure about the
bottoms. Will the denim fit? Stylistically, yes. But buying pants for someone else is always a wildcard. I’m more confident about the wide-leg pair (bonus: they’re new with tags). For the retail cost of those pants, I more than covered all nine pieces. Go, me!
Here’s how I approached the selection: I stuck mostly with what I’d call “basics” in her chosen color palette for fall and winter. I skipped T-shirts and sweatshirts — thrift stores often price them the same as other tops, and the quality can be hit or miss. In my experience, those are better to buy new.
I also couldn’t resist adding a trio of stacked necklaces. Thrifting accessories is so fun — and while I didn’t pick up shoes or handbags this time, I made sure everything would work with what she already owns. The right accessories can make any outfit feel intentional and pulled together. Since we’re both designer types, I couldn’t
help applying a few “design rules” to fashion: every outfit should include texture, pattern, and color. There’s plenty of variety across the nine pieces — only two are patterned, but they play a key role in balancing the mix. The range of textures — from chunky knits to crisp cotton — keeps combinations interesting and cohesive.
Did I nail it? I’m not sure yet — as of writing this, my friend hasn’t received her thrifted capsule. But I do know it was a joy to curate and a fun challenge to see fashion through someone else’s eyes.
If you’re looking for a fresh way to enjoy thrifting, try creating a capsule wardrobe for a friend. You’ll see how your personal style instincts translate when you’re shopping for someone else — and maybe even discover a few new tricks for your own closet along the way. Thrifting for others is just another way to take your favorite hobby to the next level.
THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS
BY JIM MATHIS
Ithinkevery family has its own holiday traditions, ranging from elaborate Easter brunches and matching pajama photos on Christmas morning, to Saint Patrick’s Day soaked in beer and corned beef. In my beloved’s family, Thanksgiving was all about The Bird — a turkey big enough to feed a small army, accompanied by all the appropriate side dishes: green beans, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, pies (pumpkin and mincemeat), and at least two varieties of cranberries.
Let me assure you, I am not here to cast aspersions on anyone’s family or their traditions. I am in no place to throw stones. My family has plenty of nontraditional
holiday traditions. Take, for example, my Dear Old Dad’s habit of playing “Alice’s Restaurant Massacree” every Thanksgiving Day — somewhere between the end of the Macy’s Parade and the Thanksgiving dinner that couldn’t be beat. Often, it would get multiple plays.
You may be thinking, “That’s not that odd. It is a story centered around Thanksgiving.” And you’d be correct. Mr. Guthrie sings the word “Thanksgiving” no fewer than six times during the 18 minutes and 20 seconds of that sprawling mix of song and spoken word. But the theme isn’t exactly one of gratitude; it’s a protest against the Vietnam War and the draft, woven around the holiday feast and a
subsequent arrest and trial for “littering… and creating a nuisance.” Again, not wholly inappropriate for a holiday. But if you’ve listened to the song, you’ll recall there are some rather adult themes. I should also note the record came out in 1967. I was not quite three years old when I first heard it.
Starting then and continuing until at least 1983, Dear Old Dad would fire up the stereo, dust off the LP, and play “Alice’s Restaurant” every Thanksgiving. By the time I was in high school, I could recite the entire “Alice’s Restaurant Massacree” with full orchestration and five-part harmony, from memory.
The legend of “Alice’s Restaurant” in my family goes beyond just the record being
“You can get anything you want at Alice’s Restaurant.” — Arlo Guthrie
played once a year. In our dining room, one side of the table had a bench. From the moment that bench came into our house, it was known as the “Group W Bench” — a reference from the song to “the place where they put you if you may not be moral enough to join the army after committing your special crime.” That’s where the kids sat. If friends came to dinner, they sat on the Group W Bench too. And if they asked why it was called that, Dear Old Dad would either launch into a retelling of the Massacree or get out the album so they could hear all 18 minutes and 20 seconds.
I had the pleasure of seeing Arlo Guthrie perform Alice’s Restaurant live a few years back as a part of the 50th anniversary of the album’s release. It was a couple of years after Dear Old Dad had passed. I think if he could have been there with me, he would’ve had the time of his life.
Whatever quirky traditions your family has, embrace them. If you don’t have one, create something! Maybe the kids eat at the big table, and the adults are relegated to a card table in the kitchen. Or perhaps the whole family eats supper wearing matching T-shirts or goofy hats. I think I will once again
welcome Alice, Officer Obie, and Arlo back into our home this Thanksgiving. It may just be me, listening alone, still reciting the lyrics along with the record – but Dear Old Dad will be there in spirit.
Do yourself a favor, eat something good today.
Jim has spent his career telling stories and working in advertising, just like his Dear Old Dad. If you enjoyed this one, his book Love and Death and Pizza is available now at Zanbroz, Alcove, Full Circle Book Co-op, and Rose & Eugene Presents.
BY RICCARDO TARABELSI
MASTER OF Wine
AsI sit in our family’s restaurant looking for inspiration to write a wine article, I stare blankly at the massive wood beams, and my eyes are drawn to my Level I Sommelier certificate. Suddenly, vivid memories flood my mind. It’s been 16 years since I tested for my certification, yet I can remember almost every wine I tasted through the two-day event. A memory that will never leave me is that of Randa Warren. I had the privilege of being taught by her. She is a Master Sommelier. In 2007, she became the 16th woman in the world to be a Master Sommelier and one of 96 men and women in the US to be a Master Sommelier and 167 total men and women in the world. She is a master of wine.
By definition, a Sommelier is a waiter who takes charge of the wines in his/her service or a wine steward. Today, a Sommelier is a respected expert of wine who has gone through rigorous testing and blind tastings. In 19981999, Randa Warren passed the Certified and Advanced WSET programs, as well as the Introductory Sommelier course at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park through the Court of Master Sommeliers. In 2000, she went on to pass the grueling Advanced Sommelier Exam on her first attempt and in 2001 Randa passed the final, 2-year WSET Diploma program that is a prerequisite to the Master of Wine program. The same year, she became a Certified Wine Educator through the
Society of Wine Educators.
In 2009 in New Orleans, she led me and about thirty others in a blind tasting. We tasted 5 total wines, 2 whites and 3 reds. She taught us how the Masters taste wine and how to use something they call the Deductive Method. This process is how a Master Sommelier takes clues from the sight, smell, and taste of a wine to come to a conclusion as to what its identity might be. Now, we’re not just talking about concluding that a heavy red wine is Cabernet. No, we were to ascertain not only the grape varietal in each wine, but also the country it came from, the region it was grown in, the level of quality, and the vintage.
Here is the Master’s way of blind tasting a wine:
Deductive Method Sight
Assess the wine’s clarity, brightness, color, and viscosity. Look for clues that might tell you how much alcohol is in the wine. For example, if the legs or tears are slow to form and stream back into the bowl of the glass, this will indicate a high alcohol concentration.
Deductive Method Smell
Look for obvious flaws, intensity of smell, and try to pick out fruit, earth, and wood aromas. Here’s a tip from Randa when smelling wine: after you’ve inhaled the aroma from the wine glass with your nose, open your mouth for a second and let in some air. This technique will heighten your senses and allow you to pick out more flavors.
Deductive Method Taste
There are lots of things that are happening on our palates, but here are just a few things to look for: sweetness, body, fruit, earth, wood, alcohol, acidity, tannins, and finish. Deciphering what each of these are in your blind glass will give you lots of clues as to wear the wine might be from. For example, a wine that literally makes your mouth water has high acidity. Wines that are high in acid make your mouth salivate, which is an indicator that the wine is from a cool climate like Italy. Typically, wines that have a low acidity are from warm climates like certain regions in California or New Zealand.
Once you have completed these methods, you should have enough data to draw a conclusion as to where the wine is from. Is it a New World wine or an Old World wine? Old World refers to Europe while the New World encompasses North and South America, Africa, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. As a rule, fruit-driven wine is from the New World, and earth-driven is from the Old World.
For example, a light-colored red wine with high acidity and a musty nose, prominent rustic flavors, and salient cherry flavors is almost just enough information to guess that the wine is Old World (not fruit-driven,) from a cool climate (high acidity,) and is probably a Sangiovese (cherry flavors.) In fact, this was the third wine we tried, and it was a 2006 Chianti.
Blind tasting is one of the quickest ways to learn about flavor profiles and varietal tendencies. It also teaches you to be very descriptive. In fact, the more descriptive you are when taking the Master Sommelier exam, the better. They take points off for not describing the wine enough, and as Randa told us all: you learn more from the wines you identify wrong, than the ones you guess right. Sounds like a good life lesson to me. Have a Happy Thanksgiving and Carpe Vino!
Riccardo and Marybeth are the owners of R Wine Bar & Kitchen, Maribella Ristorante, Brix Wine Bar, Trio Jazz Club, and Vespa Catering. They have created places known for their warm hospitality in Downtown Sioux Falls along with their incredible team and their three sons, Dante, Berent, and Jaxon (fiancée Taylor.) For all of your wine questions, feel free to contact Riccardo at riccardo@rwinebar.com.
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friends& family
Creative Autumn Crafts
Kids Will Love
BY JESS WEISCHEDEL
The season’s falling leaves, crisp air, and earthy colors make it the perfect time to gather natural materials and get creative. These easy, kid-friendly autumn crafts use everyday items to spark curiosity and hands-on fun.
Leaf Wax Print Painting
You’ll need:
White candle or white crayon, Watercolor paints or thinned acrylics, Paintbrushes, Watercolor or thick paper, Fallen leaves in a variety of shapes
Steps:
1. Choose your leaves. Look for ones with strong outlines or interesting edges.
2. Place the leaf under your paper on a hard surface.
3. Gently rub the side of a white candle or crayon over the area where the leaf sits underneath. The pressure will transfer the leaf’s shape and veins onto the paper with wax (it’s invisible for now!).
4. Paint over the paper using watercolor. Watch as the design appears where the wax was rubbed, revealing a glowing leaf outline.
5. Let it dry and add extra touches like splattered paint, marker designs, or metallic pen outlines.
By rubbing white wax onto paper before painting, kids create an invisible layer that repels watercolor, revealing hidden leaf shapes once color is brushed on. It’s a mix of art, science, and surprise!
You’ll need:
Muffin tin, egg carton, or small divided tray, Collected nature materials like leaves, pinecones, seeds, bark, feathers, stones, acorns, etc.
Steps:
1. Head outside for a short walk. Encourage kids to collect items that look or feel different, such as smooth, rough, tiny, big, colorful, and plain objects.
2. Sort the materials into compartments by color, shape, or texture.
3. Arrange and display the tray on a shelf, desk, shadow frame, or windowsill.
This craft teaches classification and helps children learn to observe, sort, and appreciate details while making their own mini museum.
Painted Leaf Press Art
You’ll need:
Freshly fallen leaves (not brittle), Acrylic or tempera paint, Paintbrushes or sponges, Paper (white or colored), Black, white or metallic marker.
Steps:
1. Paint one side of the leaf, covering it evenly. The side with the visible veins gives the most texture.
2. Press the leaf painted-side down on paper. Lay another sheet on top and press gently with your hand or a book.
3. Peel back the leaf carefully to reveal the print.
4. Let dry, then use a marker to draw creative details.
Painted Fox Leaf Gift Wrap Accent
You’ll need:
Medium to large pointed leaves, White acrylic paint, Small paintbrush, Black marker or paint pen, Brown kraft paper for wrapping, Glue stick or double-sided tape
Steps:
1. Clean and dry your leaf. Lay it on a flat surface or newspaper.
2. Paint the lower half white, leaving the tip unpainted. The colored part becomes the fox’s face and ears, and the white becomes its snout.
3. Once dry, add eyes and a little black nose with a marker or paint pen.
4. Wrap your gift in kraft paper and attach the leaf fox with glue or tape. Add twine or a bit of ribbon to finish.
Optional: Use smaller leaves to make baby foxes or mix in other animals for a forest-themed set.
Each of these crafts involve exploration, sensory experience, and curiosity. Together, they offer a blend of joyful, mindful play that nurtures both hands and hearts.
Your Ready for Some Football?
Leia, best friend of Laura
Easy, best friend of Mitch and Donna Wiese
Lilly, Lucy, Frank, Oliver, & Claricerescued best friends of Lindsay Jones
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
Rosie & Mamie, best friends of Carol Flynn
Scout, best friend of the Stombaugh family
Sully, best friend of Bradyn & Brynn
