June / July 2026
Volume 25 • Issue 5
Summer Crafts
Banana Bars
June & July Events
baking summer sweeter
From summer picnics to backyard barbeques and everything in between, 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!
JUNE JULY 2026
calendar 7
June / July 2026
concierge 14
From Licenses to Lizards: Inside the Sioux Falls Reptile Adventure Zoo
et cetera 20
2nd Annual Brave Like Natalie Benefit
et cetera 21
Touchmark at All Saints Celebrates 30 Years of Community, Connection & Vibrant Living
out & about
June/ July
Great Bear: Chill at the Hill
Every Wednesday
June–September
5:00–8:00 p.m. you will enjoy local eats, local music, games, Great Bear beverages and the perfect vibes to carry you into Summer!
Falls Park Farmer’s Market
Saturdays 8am-1pm 204 E. Falls Park Drive
Falls Park Farmers Market brings you fresh flowers, vegetables, meat, baked goods, coffee, and hot food each week. Plant your garden
2026
with beautiful geraniums and heirloom tomatoes, or browse local soaps and handmade goods.
Lake Lorraine Farmer’s Market
Thursdays, 4-7pm June-October
The Lake Lorraine Farmers Market is the city’s only westside farmers market. Stop out after work to pick up farm fresh food for the weekend. Easy, free parking with lots of great vendors offering a variety of goods! Located in
Sioux Falls Municipal Band Concerts
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. From city parks to retirement communities and beyond, our performances create lasting memories for audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime fan or experiencing the band for the first time, we invite you to join us for another incredible season of music.
June 2, 2026 | 7:30 p.m. | Sunny Crest Retirement Home
June 7, 2026 | 8 p.m. | Terrace Park
June 9, 2026 | 7:30 p.m. | Inn on Westport
June 14, 2026 | 8 p.m. | Terrace Park
June 16, 2026 | 7:30 p.m. | Lake Lorraine
June 21, 2026 | 8 p.m. | Terrace Park
June 23, 2026 | 7:30 p.m. | Dow Rummel
June 28, 2026 | 8 p.m. | Terrace Park
July 4, 2026 | 5 p.m. | W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds
July 5, 2026 | 8 p.m. | Terrace Park
July 7, 2026 | 7:30 p.m. | Good Samaritan Village
July 8, 2026 | 5:30 p.m. | Battleship Memorial
July 12, 2026 | 8 p.m. | Terrace Park
July 14, 2026 | 7 p.m. | Trail Ridge
July 16, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. | Touchmark at All Saints
July 19, 2026 | 8 p.m. | Terrace Park
July 23, 2026 | 7:30 p.m. | McKennan Park Bandshell
August 8, 2026 | 10 a.m. | Battleship Memorial
Sept. 18, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. | POW/MIA Veterans Memorial Park
Start a Savings Story
the parking lot between Hobby Lobby and Dave & Buster’s on the east side of Lake Lorraine.
Starlab Inflatable
Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum
Thursday, June 4 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 the South End Cathedral District
Thursday, June 4 • 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
Marty DeWitt at the Old Courthouse Museum
Summer Concert Series Friday, June 5 • Noon to 1 p.m. Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street
Marty DeWitt will perform at the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Concert will be held inside in the case of rain. (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Live & Local Presents Elsa Rae
Friday, June 5 • 7:30 p.m.
Orpheum Theater Center 315 N. Phillips Ave
Step into a musical journey spanning nearly two decades of original work from local songbird Elsa Rae.
Washington Pavilion Arts Collective
June 5-6 • 1-8 p.m. 301 S. Main Avenue
Come check out The Art Collective June 5th & 6th from 1–8 p.m. for an incredible two-day art event featuring over 70 local artists! This free, all-ages show is a celebration of creativity in our community! Come meet the artists, explore new works, and experience the talent your local creators have to offer. Whether you’re an art lover, collector, or just looking for something inspiring to do, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Annie’s Treasured Home & Vintage Celebration
Celebrate One Year in Business With Us!
Saturday, June 6 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
New summer merchandise, unique salvage and furniture and more! Refreshments, gift card give-aways, drawings and more! 219 N. Main St. Salem, SD. (605) 421-4442.
2026 Step Forward to Prevent Suicide Walk
Saturday, June 6 9-11 a.m.
Fawick Park
Every life lost to suicide was one too many. Behind every statistic was a name, a face, and a story that ended too soon. The Step Forward to Prevent Suicide walk is more than a community event—it is a movement of compassion, awareness, and action.
25th Annual Siouxland Renaissance Festival
Saturday, June 6 • 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday, June 7 • 10 a.m.-6 p.m. W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds 4000 W. 12th St.
The Siouxland Renaissance Assoc. is an all volunteer, non-profit organization whose mission is to work together to share our love of the Renaissance era, viewed from Tudor England. We provide the community with opportunities to participate in family-friendly events with a focus on the Renaissance throughout the year. Come to the 25th Annual Siouxland Renaissance Festival Silver Jubilee. Rain or shine.
Touchmark at All Saints 30-Year Anniversary Open House
June 10 • 4:30–6:00 p.m.
111 W. 17th St., Sioux Falls, SD
Enjoy a special evening featuring live music by the Dakota String Quartet, passed hors d’oeuvres, and specialty drinks. As you mingle, stroll down Memory Lane, a thoughtfully curated journey through the rich history of this remarkable place. RSVP by June 6 by calling 605-335-1117. touchmark.com
Starlab Inflatable Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum
Thursday, June 11
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 Mount Pleasant Cemetery: Pioneers Siouxland Heritage Museums
Thursday, June 11 • 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
The Shamrockers at the Old Courthouse Museum
Summer Concert Series
Friday, June 12 • 12-1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
The Shamrockers will perform at the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Concert will be held inside in the case of rain. (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Legally Blonde Presentedf by the Premier Playhouse
June 12 - 13 • 7 p.m.
June 14 • 2 p.m.
June 19-20 • 7 p.m.
June 21 • 2 p.m.
Orpheum Theater
315 N. Phillips Ave.
Elle Woods proves that you can be both fabulous and fierce in this empowering Broadway hit. With catchy songs, big dance numbers, and a message that defies expectations, Legally Blonde is the ultimate pinkpowered musical comedy.
Wilde Prairie Winery
Evening in the Vineyard
June 12 • 6-8 p.m.
Mogen’s Heroes
48052 259th St., Brandon, SD
Sioux Falls Pride
Parade & Festival
June 13 • 1-5 p.m.
Join us for a day of community, visibility, and pure joy. Whether you’re a long-time advocate or a first-time attendee, there is a place for you here. Pride Parade: Kick-off at 10am. Pride
Festiva:l Yankton Trail Park3901 S. Minnesota Ave.
Wilde Prairie Winery
Wine & Canvas by Sheila
June 13 • 1-4 p.m.
48052 259th St., Brandon, SD
Sal Vulcano
Everything’s Fine Tour
Saturday, June 13 • 7 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
Best known for co-creating, executive producing and starring in one of the most recognized and long-standing comedy shows of all time, Impractical Jokers, comedian Sal Vulcano recently announced the EVERYTHING’S FINE TOUR – his newest national stand-up tour – kicking off in Fall 2024 after selling out in over 60 markets during his previous tour, including notable landmark venues such as The Beacon Theatre and The Ryman Auditorium.
Fiber Fun at the Old Courthouse Museum
Sunday, June 14 • 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
Starlab Inflatable
Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum
Thursday, June 18
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.
Behind the Scenes Tour of the Irene Hall Museum Resource Center
Thursday, June 18 • 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 Eastbank/Downtown
Siouxland Heritage Museums
Thursday, June 18 • 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
Wilde Prairie Winery Palettes & Pinot
June 20 2-4 p.m.
48052 259th St., Brandon, SD
Bring your bestie and create a masterpiece with Bessie the Cow - please call to pre-register.
The Papa’s & Mama’s June 22
Orpheum Theater
The Papas and Mamas bring the timeless songs of The Mamas and The Papas to life with spot-on harmonies, vintage costumes, and a full live band. Audiences love singing along to favorites from the golden age of California pop in a fun, nostalgic night out.
Rosemaling Demonstration at the Old Courthouse Museum
Tuesday, June 23 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 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 www.siouxlandmuseums.com
Starlab Inflatable Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum Thursday, June 25 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 the Woodlawn Cemetery: Civil War Veterans
Siouxland Heritage Museums
Thursday, June 25 • 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
Mississippi Hot Club at the Old Courthouse Museum
Summer Concert Series
Friday, June 26
Noon to 1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
Mississippi Hot Club will perform at the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Concert will be held inside in the case of rain. (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Wilde Prairie Winery
Sunday in the Vineyard 48052 259th St., Brandon, SD June 28 • 2-5pm • Plant & Sip Billy Lurkin
July 26 • 2-5pm Amy Ellsworth
Rock the Country June 27 - 28 • All Day
many more performers! Rock
The Country is more than just a festival, it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and the spirit that’s carried America through 250 years. It’s where neighbors become friends, families come together under the wide-open sky, and folks from every walk of life share the simple joy of great music and good company.
Starlab Inflatable
Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum
Thursday, July 2nd 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
INFO AND TICKETS: (605) 336-6060
June 12 • 7:05pm vs. KC Monarchs
June 13 • 5:35pm vs. KC Monarchs
June 14 • 4:05pm vs. KC Monarchs
June 15 • 11:05am vs. Sioux City Explorers
June 16 • 6:35pm vs. Sioux City Explorers
June 17 • 6:35am vs. Sioux City Explorers
June 26 • 7:05pm vs. Kane County Cougars
June 27 • 5:35pm • vs. Kane County Cougars
June 28 • 4:05pm vs. Kane County Cougars
June 30 • 6:35pm vs. Sioux City Explorers
July 1 • 6:35pm vs. Sioux City Explorers
July 2 • 6:35pm vs. Sioux City Explorers
July 17 • 7:05pm vs. Lincoln SaltDogs
July 18 • 5:35pm vs. Lincoln SaltDogs
July 19 • 5:35pm vs. Lincoln SaltDogs
July 21 • 6:35pm vs. Winnipeg Goldeyes
July 22 • 6:35pm vs. Winnipeg Goldeyes
July 23 • 6:35pm vs. Winnipeg Goldeyes
JUNE
July 24 • 7:05pm vs. Gary Southshore Railcats
July 25 • 5:35pm vs. Gary Southshore Railcats
July 26 • 4:05pm vs. Gary Southshore Railcats
Support children and adults through daily victories, new skills, and moments that matter.
This is hands-on, meaningful work where connection, teamwork, and purpose come together.
Assistants •Behavior & Medical Support Technicians
Historic Walking Tour of Fort Dakota Siouxland Heritage Museums
Thursday, July 2 • 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
Friday, July 10 • Noon to 1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
Tom Watson will perform at the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Concert will be held inside in the case of rain. (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Lallycooler Music Festival
July 10 - 11 • Sioux Falls Stadium
Lallycooler Music Festival is a two-day music event in Sioux Falls, SD, bringing major artists and fans together for an unforgettable experience. Darius Rucker, Jason Derulo and more!
Fiber Fun at the Old Courthouse Museum
Sioux Falls
Independence Day Parade
July 4 • 10 a.m.
Downtown Sioux Falls
Join us for a grand celebration of America’s 250th anniversary! After two years of absence, the Sioux Falls Independence Day Parade is coming back.
Starlab Inflatable Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum
Thursday, July 9 • 1:30 & 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 the South McKennan District Siouxland Heritage Museums Thursday, July 9 • 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
Tom Watson at the Old Courthouse Museum Summer Concert Series
Sunday, July 12 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
Starlab Inflatable Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum Thursday, July 16 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.
Behind the Scenes Tour of the Irene Hall Museum Resource Center
Thursday, July 16 • 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 North Duluth Avenue
Siouxland Heritage Museums
Thursday, July 16 • 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
Rowena Ceili Band at the Old Courthouse Museum Summer Concert Series
Friday, July 17 • Noon to 1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
The Rowena Ceili Band will perform at the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m.
Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Concert will be held inside in the case of rain. (605) 3674210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Starlab Inflatable Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum
Thursday, July 23
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
Woodlawn Cemetery: Rosehill Siouxland Heritage Museums
Thursday, July 23 • 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
Weary Ramblers at the Old Courthouse Museum Summer
Concert Series
Friday, July 24
Noon to 1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
Weary Ramblers will perform at the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show!
Concert will be held inside in the case of rain. (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Wilde Prairie Winery
Sunday in the Vineyard
July 26 • 2-5pm
Amy Ellsworth 48052 259th St., Brandon, SD
Starlab Inflatable
Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum
Thursday, July 30
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
Mount Pleasant Cemetery: Civil War Veterans
Siouxland Heritage Museums
Thursday, July 30 • 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
Trevin Nelson at the Old Courthouse Museum
Summer Concert Series
Friday, July 31
Noon to 1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
Trevin Nelson will perform at the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Concert will be held inside in the case of rain. (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Hours:
Sunday 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Reptile Adventure Zoo 2501 West Russell Street
Find us on Facebook and YouTube
From Licenses to Lizards:
INSIDE THE SIOUX FALLS REPTILE ADVENTURE ZOO
BY MARY MICHAELS | PHOTOS BY MARY MICHAELS
Justoff the corner of Russell Street and Kiwanis Avenue sits a building that has been dramatically reimagined into one if the city’s newest and most unexpected attractions.
As the former driver’s license station, it once echoed with the nerves of first‑time drivers hoping to pass their exams. Today, the renovated space invites visitors to slow down rather than speed up, replacing road signs with reptiles and white‑knuckle tests with wide‑eyed wonder. It’s an apt transformation: both experiences demand patience, focus and the willingness to face a little fear head‑on.
Andrew Adam is the founder of the Reptile Adventure Zoo. As a lifelong reptile enthusiast, he wanted to create a hands on experience that brings people face to face with animals they might otherwise fear or misunderstand.
Long before he opened the doors last year
to the reptile zoo in the former DMV, the wheels had been turning in his mind.
“I first sketched out the idea of owning a pet shop when I was about 9 or 10 years old,” says Adam. In high school, he did an internship at the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, and then went on to college with aspirations of becoming a zookeeper. As he initially researched the steps and finances of his zoo dream, practical considerations steered him into a career in real estate. However, he always kept his plans in mind and now, Adam says, his work in real estate ultimately funded his dream job.
The Reptile Adventure Zoo which is one of fewer than 10 reptile zoos in the entire country features more than 100 enclosures housing turtles, lizards, snakes, tortoises, chameleons and alligators. There are cave like arches, some scaled for children, leading into spaces where turtles swim in water features and tortoises
occasionally roam openly (and moving faster than you might imagine). Certain animals, including turtles and tortoises, can be gently touched under supervision, reinforcing the zoo’s hands on mission.
Large reptiles are also part of the experience. The zoo is home to a 16 foot Burmese python, a 6 foot Black Monitor Lizard named “Big Al,” as well as alligators. These provide the “wow factor” that draws people in, and then, Adam says the staff can wow guests with their incredible knowledge.
“Our staff is so passionate,” he says. “Most of the reviews we receive are about how much information our staff provides, how great they are with kids and how they provide guests with facts they never knew about our reptiles and amphibians.”
Adam adds that the staff have diverse educational backgrounds, including one
“We will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand and we will understand only what we are taught.”
who studied sea turtles, another who has a background in zoology and yet another with a specialty in snakes. As a team, their combined knowledge and experience ensure guests are not only having fun, but also that they’re sure to leave having learned something new.
The Reptile Adventure Zoo’s philosophy is placed front and center on its website through a conservation quote from environmentalist Baba Dioum: “We will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand and we will understand only what we are taught.”
That belief plays out through on site experiences and outreach programs. Beyond the zoo itself, Adam offers traveling “Reptile Adventure Presentations” that bring live animals to schools, libraries, birthday parties and community events. These presentations are designed to be interactive and age appropriate, reinforcing lessons about animal care, habitats and conservation.
He also founded the nonprofit Sioux Falls Area Reptile Rescue & Rehoming, along with the Sioux Falls Herpetological Society, which has monthly in person meetings for all ages and experience levels to learn more about reptiles and amphibians.
The Reptile Adventure Zoo is deeply intertwined with Adam’s personal life. His wife, Stacey, is also a co owner, and her accounting firm operates from the same building (with a separate entrance in case you don’t want to see
snakes when you come to do your taxes). Their shared love of zoos even influenced their family story: Adam proposed to Stacey at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo, and they later named their son Henry. The couple plans to home school their children, so the zoo will become a unique classroom where the kids can spend time on their regular school studies and also learn more about the environment around them.
The zoo has quickly become a local curiosity and family destination, drawing visitors who may have never willingly touched a snake, looked closely at an alligator or seen an Axolotl before. What’s an Axolotl?
“The Axolotl is actually a type of salamander,” Adam explains. “This particular type never evolved out of the gill stage so, while other salamanders live on land, these live in the water.”
Kids love the interactive sandbox at the zoo, which combines high tech and high touch. When you push your hands through the sand and create a mound, lights from above illuminate creatures and features you’d find on the hill. If you dig a little channel, the lights create a wavy river across the sand.
“I usually encourage parents to take the kids around to the animal exhibits first,” Adam laughs, “because once they get to the sandbox, they don’t want to leave.”
The zoo also hosts birthday parties and private events in a room featuring a full
wall mural by artist Hannah Stromseth. She created other murals at the front entrance in as part of the various exhibits. Adam tells guests to look for all the “Easter eggs” that the artist hid in her paintings (like Rafiki from Lion King holding up a turtle).
The Reptile Adventure Zoo also houses a store where you can adopt animals that came to Adam and his team through Sioux Falls Area Reptile Rescue & Rehoming. The store has all the supplies you need for a new reptile or amphibian family member. And, of course, the store has lots of fun things for kids, like books, games and stuffed animals.
Daily admission rates are $8.95 for ages 3 12 (ages 2 and under are free), $11.95 for adults and $10.45 for adults age 65 and over. In addition, the zoo offers an annual individual membership ($32.50) and an annual family membership ($112 for four people and then $24 per additional family member). You can purchase tickets at the zoo or online in advance.
Fun fact: the team designed their membership cards to look like a drivers license featuring Mr. Verde the green Iguana, in homage to the building’s former function.
For Andrew Adam, this is not just a business — it’s the realization of a lifelong promise to do what he loves. He took a building that used to issue licenses to one that now issues perspective – on reptiles, conservation and the value of slowing down.
Mark Your Calendars for the
OCTOBER
16-17, 2026
Sioux Falls Convention Center
Two days of shopping, fun, entertainment and pampering - designed specifically for women of all ages.
Shop and enjoy fantastic seminars and a huge array of booths on health, food, wine, fashion, home decor, cosmetics, fitness, entertainment, finance, career, art and more!
This two day event is a get-a-way for girlfriends and families, and the timing couldn’t be better - the etc. expo for her is being held during South Dakota’s opening pheasant hunting weekend.
So, grab your girlfriends, your mom, your daughter, and of course, your purse, and make a weekend of the etc. expo for her!
Something Big Is Happening
All the “parts” have finally arrived and the assembly team is working to complete the WORLD’S LARGEST NUTCRACKER. Located just off Highway 75 and south of Those Blasted Things, this 65-feet tall patriotic nutcracker stands tall on an 8-feet platform, welcoming visitors to Luverne. Make plans to visit the giant nutcracker this summer!
WHY A BIG NUTCRACKER?
The story of Luverne’s affiliation with nutcrackers began more than 8 years ago. In 2016, Betty Mann, then president of the Rock County Historical Society, gifted her private collection of 2,500-plus nutcrackers to the Society when it moved into its newly renovated home on Main Street, the History Center. Donations and purchases have to the collection over the years and today, the collection numbers over 7,000, with no duplicates. It’s the third largest collection in the world!
WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO DO IN LUVERNE?
DISCOVER HISTORY, ART, ENTERTAINMENT & SHOPPING:
• HISTORY CENTER, feature stories and artifacts from pioneers to the present
• HERREID MILITARY MUSEUM, feature stories and artifacts of Rock County veterans from the Civil War to the present
• HINKLY HOUSE, this Sioux Quartzite Victorian home features period furnishings; open Thursdays from 2 to 4 pm or by appointment
• BRANDENBURG GALLERY, features over
100 photographs of award-winning nature photographer Jim Brandenburg
• HISTORIC PALACE THEATRE, features newly released movies and scheduled live performances
• VERNE DRIVE-IN, enjoy a movie under the stars at 1 of the 300 remaining outdoor movie theaters
• SHOP, find treasures at unique retail shops like Those Blasted Things, First Comes Love, ReBorn Home Furnishings, Christmas Haus, Redeemed Remnants, Rock River Apothecary, Sewing Basket, Schomackers Home Galleries, Print Express, The Nexus Vault, Rock River Relics, Sassy Seconds, Tyana’s Bridal and Manitou Carpets to name a few
HIKE, BIKE, CLIMB, CAMP AND EXPLORE:
• Blue Mounds State Park with miles of trails, 100+ feet rock climbing walls, bison buggy tours into a herd of 70+ bison
Touch the Sky Prairie, over 1,000 acres of Northern Tallgrass Prairie Refuge teaming with birds, wildlife and hundreds of native prairie plants
• Luverne LOOP, Blue Mounds Trail and Ashby Memorial Trail offering 15+ miles of paved trails in and around Luverne with E-bike rentals and bikes to borrow
in Luverne!
SO MUCH TO DO!
For more information about Luverne, visit luvernechamber.com.
Or follow us on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/luvchamber
Make your plans to experience all Luverne has to offer. Escape to Luverne for a unique, unforgettable experience – so good you may not want to go home.
• Luverne Aquatic & Fitness offer state of the art indoor pool with an outdoor splashpad
• Luverne City Park, offering acres of a beautiful maintained park complete with shelters and multiple playground centers
• The Lake offers swimming, sandy beach, fishing, kayaking and canoeing with all the amenities close by
• Spend a night under the stars at State Park, Luverne Campground Campground in a tent, camper or tiny home
RELAX & REFRESH:
• Recharge during the day with delicious food and refreshments at our local restaurants. Beverages from Bean, Wildflower’s Coffee Boutique, Take 16 Brewing Company and Functional Nutrition offer the perfect treat
• Enjoy a delicious meal from JJ’s Tasty Drive-In, Howling Dog Saloon, Los Bravos, McDonald’s, Pizza Ranch, Subway, Revel Kitchen & Cocktails and The Bullpen
2ND ANNUAL BENEFIT
SATURDAY, AUGUST 1
VEHICLE POKER RUN SILENT AUCTION
Pleasejoin us for a day of fun on Saturday, August 1 at Titans Tavern Event Hall for an ALL VEHICLE Poker Run, Silent Auction, 50/50 Raffle and Live Music by the Goodroad Acoustic Duo!!
On May 8, 2025, at just 22 months old, Natalie Hostetler of Tea, SD was diagnosed with T Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Along with little Natalie, her parents, Shane and Keena and older sister, Olivia had their world turned upside down.
After her first phase of treatment, she has reached remission something the Hostetlers are incredibly grateful for. However, her cancer is aggressive, so treatment must continue to help prevent it from returning.
Since her diagnosis, Natalie has endured 20 hospital stays, 2 ER visits and for the first 10 months, she was at the clinic nearly every day. She has bravely gone through countless chemotherapy treatments, lumbar punctures, steroid rounds, NG tube placements, lab checks, blood clots, an
TITANS TAVERN EVENT HALL
RAFFLE
infection, and physical therapy.
Her treatment plan is expected to continue through October 2027. Along the way, she faces side effects including nausea, fatigue, and a weakened immune system, but with strong medical care and support, she continues to push through. Through it all, the love, prayers, and support from family, friends, and the community have meant more than the Hostetlers could ever express. The support truly plays a huge role in healing, and they are so thankful to not be walking this journey alone.
Thank you for being part of Natalie’s fight! Please join us for a day of fun on Saturday, August 1 at Titans Tavern Event Hall for an ALL VEHICLE Poker Run, Silent Auction, 50/50 Raffle and Live Music by the Goodroad Acoustic Duo!! Bidding for silent auction items will be available all day! Blooms by Bella will also be hosting a bouquet bar during the afternoon! Find more info by searching “2nd Annual Brave Like Natalie Benefit” on Facebook events.
From Glory to Glory
Touchmark at All Saints Celebrates 30 Years of Community, Connection & Vibrant Living
BY BETH RICHMAN
TheAll Saints building has been a cherished part of Sioux Falls’ history for more than 140 years, from its beginnings as an all girls school in the 1880s to the vibrant senior living community it is today.
The All Saints School opened on September 17, 1885, as a pet project of Episcopalian Bishop William Hobart Hare. Hare saw the need for a private boarding school for the daughters of missionaries and other young women in the area.
It was considered one of the region’s most significant educational institutions of its time, emphasizing academic learning, discipline, service, and spiritual and community life. The school’s motto, “From Glory to Glory,” was inscribed in the Sioux Quartzite cornerstone as a tribute to Hare’s late wife and to honor all women.
Designed by renowned architect Wallace L. Dow, the school’s main building is a striking example of Prairie Gothic architecture. The three story stone structure featured a distinctive bell tower and a cupola, where Bishop Hare was known to observe the cityscape.
Students gathered daily for worship in the chapel, which served as the spiritual and ceremonial center of campus life. Today the chapel still serves as a spiritual gathering place. The space features the only Tiffany stained glass windows in South Dakota; they depict biblical figures intended to inspire moral strength, compassion, and guidance.
For nearly 50 years, the Peabody sisters led the school, educating as
many as 88 girls annually. Boys were admitted as day students starting in the 1920s.
After WWII, financial struggles led to the school’s shift to a private elementary and nursery school in 1951, which operated until closing in 1986.
When the Episcopal Diocese sold the property in 1993 to Touchmark, a leader in the senior housing industry, it stipulated that the new owner preserve the school’s historical significance. Touchmark has honored that request, displaying original uniforms and other artifacts, carefully polishing hardwood floors and woodwork, burnishing ornate door knobs, and retaining the chapel’s original organ and stained glass windows.
In June 1996, the original school building was repurposed into a retirement community. The main building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and remains a central part of the All Saints Historic District.
Honoring the property’s past while giving it new purpose
Touchmark at All Saints is a full service senior living community that is home to 240 residents. Residents and visitors enjoy visiting the onsite museum and chapel. The Chapelview building, which incorporates archival photos to ensure the building’s legacy remains visible and accessible, is currently under renovation.
recipes 23
Banana Bars
at home 24
At Home
The Alex and Lacey Rapp Home
the a list 32
man in the kitchen 36
Yer Not Chicken Are Ya?
vino 38
Grillin’ with Wine
the simple season 40
Welcome to Throwback Summer
How the ’90s came roaring back in 2026
Banana Bars
Title
BY JO MCCLURE
Banana bars are a simple, crowd-pleasing barbecue dessert. These are easy to transport, require minimal prep, and pair perfectly with outdoor, warm-weather meals. Enjoy!
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups four
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
2 med. ripe bananas, mashed (1 cup)
FROSTING
8 ounce package softened cream cheese
1/2 cup butter, softened
3 1/2-4 cups powdered sugar
Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, sour cream and vanilla. Combine flour, baking soda and salt and gradually add to the creamed mixture.
Spread into a greased 15x10 inch baking pan and bake at 350˚ for 20-25 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test. Allow to cool well before frosting.
Beat cream cheese, butter and vanilla until fluffy. Gradually start adding the powdered sugar until it reaches the consistency you desire. Frost and enjoy! Store in the refrigerator.
At Home
THE Alex ANDLacey Rapp HOME
BY MARY MICHAELS |
PHOTOS BY JADE ERICSON PHOTOGRAPHY
Whensummer settles over Harrisburg, the Rapp home doesn’t just celebrate school being out. They are celebrating all things America.
For Lacey Rapp, whose love of decorating is as natural as breathing, the Fourth of July and the upcoming America 250 milestone offer the perfect excuse to infuse every corner of their home with nostalgic, patriotic charm.
Lacey says she has always had an eye for possibility. Even when she and her husband, Alex, first toured their 1990s era house back in 2017, which was still sporting its original finishes like honey oak woodwork and sponge painted walls, she saw not what it was, but what it could become.
“Some people walk into a house and if they don’t like the paint color, they’re out of there,” she says. “But I could see the potential.”
For the Rapps, that potential shines brightest when the house is dressed for a holiday.
The living room fireplace becomes a natural focus point for each season. Their home remodel several years ago changed out the dark tile face and updated it with a brick face, hearth and mantel, as well as white shiplap on the wall that matches the shiplap in the entry and around the base of the kitchen island.
The bigger mantel gives Lacey more space to feature cool thrift finds.
For this holiday, a natural wood bead garland (cleverly repurposed from Christmas décor) drapes from end to end along with a garland of red, white and blue bows. On the shiplap boards over the fireplace, Lacey hung red, white and blue vintage plates, Jello molds and wall vases filled with red flowers. To add some natural texture, she leaned an old wood and glass door insert on the mantel and surrounded it with other thrift finds like a collection of books.
Books are one of Lacey’s decorating tips
because they’re easy to find at thrift stores or antique stores and are a versatile “filler” for tables or shelves.
“You can find books in all sizes and colors and display them standing or stacked, binding side out or pages side out,” Lacey says. “I collect them all year long for different occasions.”
For the summer season, the books on the mantel and the rustic coffee table (which she
bought from someone who had upcycled it by cutting the legs off a dining room table) are all classic Americana.
“I have historical books, a Normal Rockwell book, a book about baseball and even a volume on how the Empire State Building was constructed.”
Lacey also offers valuable information she learned as she has thrifted books over the years.
“Someone told me about book mites, which are little bugs often found in old books or wallpaper or anyplace where there is moisture or mold,” she explains. “But, if you put the books into a bag and pop it into the freezer for a couple of days, it takes care of the mites, and your books are ready to display.”
On the hearth sits a collection of vintage picnic baskets, providing a nostalgic taste of
summer. And, they are also practical, because when it’s time to put away this season, Lacey can tuck other decorations into the picnic baskets before storing them away.
What makes the Rapp home so inviting isn’t just the décor—it’s the feeling. The living room, with its soft off‑white sectional and abundance of pillows, is a place where kids can flop down after running through the sprinkler or where
adults can settle in with a glass of lemonade.
Lacey’s philosophy is simple: beautiful can still be “livable.” She chooses pieces that can handle real life — kids, pets, spills and all.
Pillow covers are washable. A chenille throw blanket serves as a couch cover. Wood surfaces are meant to show character.
For the Rapps, storage is all about creativity.
“Even though we remodeled this house to
make it more functional for our family, it is still a ‘90s house where closet space wasn’t plentiful,” says Lacey. “So, we try to maximize storage wherever we can. I had been looking for a more natural looking stand to go under our television, for example, and finally found one. The bonus is the storage, because that’s where I keep extra books and candles for different seasons.”
TRANSFORM LIVING SPACES INTO LEGACIES
Explore our refreshed StarMark Cabinetry Showroom, featuring 5 new door styles and 8 new finishes inspired by the still moments in nature. Our Spring collection offers refined style and functionality, with trend-forward designs, hardware and countertops to bring your dream space to life.
VISIT THE SHOWROOM
(605) 977-3660 | (800) 669-0087
600 E 48TH STREET, NORTH SIOUX FALLS, SD STARMARKCABINETRY.COM
MONDAY – THURSDAY 8–5 | FRIDAY 8–3
SATURDAY & EVENINGS BY APPOINTMENT
Sitting atop the TV stand is a spray of white silk Magnolias in a blue water pitcher vase.
“I lived in Mississippi as a kid, and my grandpa had a Magnolia tree,” Lacey says. “To me, summer is the smell of Magnolias, so this helps me remember that time in my life.”
An umbrella stand nearby holds a cluster of small American flags and vintage red
umbrellas. A pegged rack on the wall displays patriotic quilts with a framed picture of George Washington, grounding the display in early‑American tradition.
The oversized bookcase—one of Lacey’s favorite Marketplace finds that she sanded down to a natural finish—always holds a mix of thrifted treasures. But for the summer, she
tucked in red, white and blue quilts, pillows, flags and a pair of old lanterns – red and blue, of course.
The kitchen and dining area decor is simple, cheerful and unmistakably summery. For example, the dining room table is dressed with red‑and‑white checked placemats, topped with white stoneware dishes, blue glass
depression ware salad plates and white dessert bowls filled with fresh cherries on top of red and white checked napkins. The center of the table is filled with white hydrangeas in small pitchers, pottery pieces or other interesting containers she’s thrifted lately.
When Lacey and Alex moved into the house, the kitchen makeover swapped out
honey oak cabinets for all white with gold hardware and added a herringbone patterned subway tile for the backsplash. The countertop was a big decision – literally.
“We didn’t really want anything with a lot of color or pattern that would feel too busy,” Lacey says. “Then we thought about a friend of ours who is an engineer and had made concrete
countertops for their place at Lake Poinsett. While he does colored concrete as well, I just wanted the natural grey. It took eight men to carry in this top, and we also reinforced the floor under the island because we knew it would be heavy.”
The secretary desk in the corner of the dining room is a special piece that once
belonged to Alex’s grandmother. The couple thought they were just looking at a dresser when they first saw it, but when Lacey pulled open the top drawer, it folded down to a desktop. Once again, bonus storage for the family, such as holding books and puzzles for their two boys.
Just off the dining room, the screened‑in deck transforms into a patriotic retreat. Red, white, and blue bunting drapes along two sides, fluttering gently in the breeze. The table, set with plates on red metal trays, is ready for lemonade, watermelon slices or an impromptu backyard picnic.
The futon is piled with red, white, and blue throw pillows, making it the perfect spot to stretch out with a book—something Lacey does often, especially when the boys are playing in the backyard. Red geraniums hang in the corners – a classic summer flower that ties the whole space together.
After the initial remodel, the boys had separate rooms, but Lacey says they always migrated to one room to play or watch TV and, ultimately, decided they wanted to share a room. So, the two now have a spacious room together downstairs, complete with two full size beds where the
frames lift to reveal under the bed storage. A roomy closet provides enough room for both of them, complete with cubbies where they can lay out their clothes for the next day. And, Lacey says, she and her husband decided to go with green for the wall color.
“We did the whole room without them seeing it,” she says. “And they were so excited when they finally saw it.”
And the green?
“We love how it turned out. And it’s just paint, so if they get to a point where they want something different, we can paint it a different color.”
In the primary bedroom upstairs, Lacey says that one day she just got a “wild hair” and painted the room navy blue. For the summer season, she added red and white checked pillow covers and bedspread. Because she’s not a fan of closet doors that take up room and limit access to the space inside – you won’t find any in the house – she used an off white painters’ tarp for a curtain to cover the closet. At the foot of the bed, under the folded blue and white quilt, sits a narrow wood crate on legs that previously served as a coffee table in the living room. On the side of
Lacey’s Decorating Tips
• Don’t be afraid of paint. It’s just paint. If you don’t like it, change it.
• Reduce stress and make everything washable –throw blankets, pillow covers, rugs.
• Go ahead and make the hole in the wall to hang something you love. You can always fill it in.
• When planning a gallery wall of photos or other things, lay it out on the floor first. Use painter’s tape or masking tape to help you transfer it up on the wall.
• Make anything a curtain using hooks that “pinch” the fabric so you don’t need holes or grommets. Changing up curtains for the season – especially when you use remnant fabric or other materials for the curtain – can be a relatively inexpensive and easy way to change up the look and feel of a room.
• Anything can be a curtain rod. Measure a dowel to length and paint or stain it (or leave it natural).
• Books are a great décor item that can add color and texture (see the tip in the story if you’re thrifting books).
• Buy out of season. You’ll find great Christmas deals in the spring or summer items in the winter.
• Buy solid colors that can serve more than one season. Get solid reds and greens for Christmas that can be used again at Valentine’s Day or St. Patrick’s Day.
• Have an old lamp that you love but it doesn’t work or want a lamp where there isn’t an outlet? Cut the cord off and use rechargeable LED bulbs.
• Don’t worry about the trends. Live in what you like.
the box are stenciled letters reading, “Cluster Frag. Bomb W/O Fuse.”
“Yep,” Lacey laughs. “It’s an ammo box. The previous owner sealed the inside and used it for storing blankets. We added the legs to it and can move it around to be an accent table or TV stand.”
For all the patriotic touches, the Rapp home never feels staged. It feels lived‑in, loved and constantly evolving—just like the family inside it.
“I’m constantly changing things around,” she says with a laugh. “My husband will leave for work in the morning and come home and say, ‘That wasn’t there before.’”
Lacey’s approach to decorating is rooted in joy, creativity, and a willingness to try something new. “It’s just paint,” she likes to say. “If you don’t like it, paint a different color.”
That same spirit carries into her seasonal decorating. She doesn’t aim for perfection—she aims for warmth. For memories. For a home that feels like summer, like celebration, like America.
And in that way, the Rapp home is the perfect place to honor the country’s 250th year: full of history, full of heart and full of the simple beauty found in everyday life.
Experience our Kitchen & Bath Showroom! Explore hundreds of faucets on display to fit every style and budget. Plus, get expert help finding the perfect look for your project. Just Shop Frisbees!
Celebrate One Year in Business With Us
Saturday, June 6, 10am 4pm. New summer merchandise, unique salvage and furniture and more! Refreshments, gift card give aways, drawings and more! 219 N. Main St. Salem, SD. (605) 421 4442.
We bake your summer extra sweet with our famous mountain sized cookies! We have over 20 flavors of cookies in our case, that are sure to sweeten any picnic or get together! Grab a party tray for any backyard gatherings or ice cream cookie sandwiches to cool off on those hot summer 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.
See Grab & Store!
Keep food storage organized and within reach with this smart Tupperware pull out organizer. Adjustable dividers and vertical lid storage make it easy to see, grab, and store every container— no more mismatched lids! One of many accessories available with your cabinets at Dakota Kitchen and Bath, 4101 N Hainje Avenue, Sioux Falls.
Summer Season
Visit Color Me Mine and paint a delightful fruit themed piece for the summer season. So many adorable pieces to choose from. Color Me Mine. 3709 W. 41st St. (605) 362 6055.
Hi Barbie!
The Dance Line has the cutest new arrivals of Barbie leotards stop in and say “Hi Barbie!” 2115 S. Minnesota Ave. (605) 335 8242.
NOW OPEN!
Revel Kitchen & Cocktails is a fun and new family friendly 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
Dixie
Belle’s Newest Collection
Dixie Belle’s newest paint lineup is the Curated Collection. This five piece line features rich, moody tones and includes the much talked about shade Hearth. The full Curated Collection includes:Hearth, Apothecary, Heirloom, Kindling and Sanctuary. Get yours at Junk in the Trunk. New location now open at 46930 Cody Trail, Tea, SD. Junkinthetrunksiouxfalls.com or (605) 213 0022.
Classic Elegance
Our new Moxie solid panel door by StarMark Cabinetry brilliantly unites contemporary vision with classic elegance, transforming our shared spaces. 600 E 48th St N, Sioux Falls. (800) 594 9444.
Fun in the Sun!
Attention bareMinerals Lovers!
Southeaster Hair Design carries the basics in stock and can special order whatever you need. Select group of products 20% off and FREE mascara with $50 bareMinerals purchase (excludes mascara limit 1 per person while supplies last)! Call (605) 332 5115 or email info@siouxfallshair. com. 3312 S. Lincoln, Sioux Falls.
Check wildprairiewinery.com for a full schedule of fun in the sun events at Wilde Prairie Winery. Concerts, art events and more! And, enjoy a delicious glass of local South Dakota made wine. Wilde Prairie Winery, 48052 259th St., Brandon, SD. (605) 582 6471.
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 fees
Yer Not Chicken Are Ya?
BY JIM MATHIS
I’veheard that the test of a good cook is something simple; an omelet, a steak cooked just right or a whole roasted chicken. I’ll admit, while they all sound easy, getting it just right takes a little skill and a lot of practice. And I’ll also admit, I’ve overcooked more than a few steaks, omelets, and chickens. But when I get it right, man it’s good.
My mother in law used to talk about growing up on the farm and being sent to dispatch a few chickens. Those luckless hens would become dinner. Things are a little easier for us. We can go to the mega mart or butcher shop and select chicken ready to cook in dozens of ways; a whole chicken, 30 wings, two hind quarters or 4 boneless breasts; your choice, ready to cook as you wish.
For a long time, I would buy just chicken parts; I’d get breasts to grill, thighs for paella, tenders for stir fry, just pieces and parts as needed. But I’ve since discovered that it’s best to buy the whole bird. It’s more than the two of us need for a meal, but the extra parts are
better when they’re all cooked together. This weekend I’m going to roast a whole chicken. A simple bird cooked with a few ingredients. When I’m done, we’ll have dinner for the night and pre cooked chicken for a salad later in the week.
Beer Can Chicken?
As a guy who likes to grill, you know I’ve tried the beer can chicken method. It’s a pretty simple idea really. You use a half full can of beer inserted into the cavity of the chicken to help it stay upright while it grills. The proponents of this method say the steam created as the beer boils helps to keep the chicken moist. But the reality is that the steam is released from the top of the can right near the opening at the neck of the bird, so it finds the path of least resistance and escapes without really adding much to the party. Kind of a waste of a good beer.
But there are devices you can buy that hold the chicken upright, release steam lower in the
cavity and let the bird cook evenly and develop a nice crispy skin. The versions I have are made by Weber from cast aluminum and steel. They have nice built in drip pans that catches the fat and juices, a shallow area to fill with beer, wine, or chicken stock, and it leaves room in the cavity for herbs and aromatics. I’ve found this works much better than the beer can and produces a finished product that is much like the rotisserie chickens you buy at Costco, Look’s or the grocery store. And that’s not bad at all.
Brick Chicken
Another legendary way to cook a bird is under a brick. Typically for this method you will ask your butcher to spatchcock the chicken for you. If the guy behind the counter doesn’t know what you’re talking about, leave that store and go to a real butcher shop. What does spatchcock mean? Good question: it means that the fowl has been split open like a book. You can do it yourself by simply cutting out the backbone of the chicken with a pair of
poultry shears and pressing it flat. Save those backbones in the freezer until you’ve got six or eight and use them to make chicken stock. If your butcher does it, they may also remove the breastbone and ribs and you’ll have two halves of the chicken pretty much ready to cook. For the brick chicken, you’ll want to wrap a couple of bricks in aluminum foil and heat them in the oven or on the grill for at least a half an hour. Then you’ll put the spatchcocked bird skin side down in a large, hot skillet, either cast iron or carbon steel. Then those hot bricks go on top of the chicken, so the pan cooks the chicken from the bottom while the brick heats from the top and ensures good contact with the pan. The result is a bird that cooks quickly and gets a nice crispy skin. But personally, I think it’s more work than it’s worth.
Grilled Chicken
After much experimentation and testing, I prefer to simply grill the spatchcocked chicken. It’s so simple and it produces juicy, flavorful chicken that’s as good as you’ll get in just about any restaurant. I let the boys at
Look’s Market do the dirty work and prepare the birds. Then I make a simple herb and garlic rub with parsley, sage, and thyme from the garden, a few cloves of minced garlic, and generous amounts of salt and pepper. Spread the mixture on both sides, drizzle with olive oil and grill over medium coals. I start with the skin side down, flipping once and keeping an eye on it till it’s done. Depending on the temp of the grill, it will take somewhere between 30 to 40 minutes. I find that the slower it cooks, the juicier the bird, so don’t rush it.
The Most Important Tool
Whenever you’re dealing with raw poultry, you’ve got to be careful not to contaminate other foods. Safety first! Chickens are notoriously dirty. Use separate cutting boards, separate knives and tongs, and make sure you clean up after yourself. Remember the four rules of food safety; clean, separate, cook and chill. These are crucial rules when working with poultry.
So what’s the most important tool? A really good instant read thermometer! I use
a ThermoPen. They are quick and accurate albeit a little expensive; they run about a hundred bucks. That’s still way cheaper than medical bills when the whole family gets food poisoning. Get a good thermometer and use it. Chicken should be cooked to 165 degrees, but cook it too long and it becomes rubber. I recommend pulling the chicken off when the thickest part is between 155 and 160, then let it rest for ten to fifteen minutes. The carry over heat will get you up to 165. An instant read thermometer helps you walk the fine line between safe to eat and over cooked.
When served with some grilled vegetables and a bottle of white or rosé wine, a simple roasted chicken becomes an elegant dinner. And there’s the bonus of some really good leftovers for later in the week. Do yourself a favor, eat something good today.
Jim started cooking chicken as a short-order cook in college, now he runs ADwërks, an advertising agency in Sioux Falls where he cooks up marketing communications ideas. Look for his new book Love and Death and Pizza, available now.
Grillin’ with Wine
BY RICCARDO TARABELSI
RecentlyI was at a friend’s house for a family barbecue. The host was grilling up burgers and brats, and I was having a cold beer. As guests were arriving to this fun gathering, I started noticing a pattern: people walking in were exchanging greetings with everyone, but when they arrived to where I was sitting, they all said the same thing to me, “You’re drinking beer?!”
My response to everyone was the same,
“C’mon, am I that much of a wine snob?!”
I had already poured a glass of pinot noir for my wife and a cabernet for a friend, but there was just something enticing about an ice cold beer on a warm day to pair with a juicy burger. Truth be told, I did sneak a couple of sips out of my wife’s glass when she wasn’t looking just to cleanse my palate from the beer! Maybe my friends were right about me… Just in case you’re
like me, and would rather have wine with your grilled cuisine, here are some wine suggestions for all the barbecues this summer will bring.
Zinfandel will be able to handle a wide variety of red meats. This bold red wine bellies up to meaty, smoky flavors – allowing the varietal’s black pepper spice, acidity, and ripe tannins to carry the meat’s fats and texture to a new dimension. A Zin will also work well
with barbeque sauce, steak sauce, and mild salsas – if there is too much spice in the sauce the two will compete, and both the wine and the sauce end up as losers.
Merlot is the spicy sauce answer to the above dilemma. With the characteristic fruit forward flavor profile, this varietal will support the spice and not aggravate it. Grilled pork chops, chicken, and garden variety salads with lighter dressings also mingle well with Merlot.
Shiraz/Syrah is another varietal that makes the grill friendly wine list. This varietal is delicious with just about any red meat. Offering dynamic, somewhat aggressive fruit flavors, balanced with more mellow tannins and a softer fuller body – this wine’s place to shine is definitely at a barbecue gathering! Rhône Syrahs tend to have a smokier flavor characteristic and lend themselves extremely well to smoked brisket.
Cabernet Sauvignon is made for steaks with a higher fat content, and burgers of beef or turkey will pair equally well. The tighter tannins are significantly mellowed by the meat’s fat, producing a palate pleaser to remember! Top your burgers with bold cheeses, like blue or sharp cheddar, and this
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Lessons for all ages and ability levels! Morning and evening classes available. Junior Tennis FALL Session Runs Aug.17-Oct. 10
varietal gets even better.
Pinot Noir a flexible varietal that is known for being extremely food friendly. Pair it with everything from grilled fish to a juicy burger. Pinot Noir is an ideal candidate for grilled fish – especially salmon. If you aren’t sure what wine will work with your grilled dinner, Pinot Noir will likely be your best bet.
Chardonnay will work wonderfully with grilled fish (including shellfish), chicken with creamy sauces, and grilled corn on the cob with lots of butter!
Riesling is the perfect varietal for grilled brats, shrimp, barbecue chicken, grilled pineapple, and a variety of grilled veggies.
Sauvignon Blanc has an herbaceous quality that supports marinades and sauces with similar attributes. For example, grilled chicken that has been doused in Italian dressing or a citrus marinade will be unbeatable with a Sauvignon Blanc. Likewise, roasted peppers, veggies in fresh herbs, and grilled fish with dill and lemon will all be highlighted in tandem with a Sauvignon Blanc.
Gewürztraminer often offers a balance to spice with its slightly to moderately sweet
For more information, log on to www.playthepointe.com Contact: Mark Vellek, Executive Director mark@playthepointe.com
character. This varietal would be a great choice to go with blackened Mahi Mahi or grilled Cajun chicken with fresh mango salsa.
In general, red wines go well with grilled red meats like your basic burgers, steaks, and ribs. These meats can be somewhat salty, a bit smoky, and tend to be a touch sweeter depending on marinades, sauces, condiments, cooking times, etc. The lighter meats and sauces are more apt to flow better with white wines that share similar flavors as the foods they are meant to accent. If you are having a backyard barbecue, offer a few whites and a few reds and let your guests mix and match to see which flavor suits their preferences. There are no hard and fast rules.
I don’t remember where I heard this, but it’s so true… There are only two kinds of wine: those you like and those you don’t. Trust your palate! Carpe vino!
Riccardo loves to grill out with his wife Marybeth (celebrating 29 years in July!) They own R Wine Bar & Kitchen, Brix Wine Bar, Maribella Ristorante, Trio Jazz Club, and Vespa Catering. Contact Riccardo at riccardo@ rwinebar.com.
WELCOME TO THROWBACK SUMMER
How the ’90s came roaring back in 2026
BY BOBBI LYNN GAUKEL
If you’ve spent any time on social media lately, you’ve probably seen the posts asking, “What were you like in the ’90s?”
Everyone from your average Joe to rock stars and models has joined in, sharing snapshots of their younger selves (mostly flattering, of course).
The trend got me thinking: what would it look like to recreate some of my favorite
summers from the past, right here in 2026?
Maybe the ’90s aren’t your decade. But for me, those years hold a certain magic. As a young adult then, I built a collection of simple memories that feel worth revisiting. Not just for nostalgia’s sake, but intentionally.
So this summer, I’m bringing a few of them back.
Reading a real, paper book. Like many of
us, I’ve drifted away from physical books. My eyesight isn’t what it used to be, so audiobooks have become my go to and I genuinely love them. Still, most of what I “read” these days falls into the self improvement category. Helpful? Sure. Peaceful to consume? Not really.
I keep thinking about those long ago, lazy afternoons spent stretched out in the
backyard, completely absorbed in a distant world. No productivity angle. No takeaway. Just pure escapism.
This summer, I want that again. An actual book, with pages. Preferably something set in another era, with compelling relationships at its center and just enough sweetness to keep me turning pages. If you have recommendations, I’m listening.
Washing the car in the driveway. Back in the ’90s, my budget was tight. I don’t think I even considered a drive through car wash because car payments alone felt like enough of a stretch. So I washed my car the old fashioned way: bucket, soap, sponge, and a little determination.
I haven’t done that in years.
But there’s something appealing about it now. The simplicity. The rhythm. Even the splash of water on a hot day. All it really takes is a bucket, some soap, and a willingness to put in a bit of elbow grease. It might not be efficient, but it sounds kind of fun.
Taking a walk with no devices. I walk regularly for exercise, like many people in my neighborhood. And almost always, I’ve got earbuds while I catch up on a podcast or
streaming music. Spotify is one of my favorite companions.
But this summer, I want to try something different: walking without any digital input at all.
No earbuds. Maybe not even my phone. Because even when it stays in my pocket, it grabs me for attention: notifications, messages, the subtle sense that I should be reachable. I’d like to leave that behind, even briefly, and just be present.
Summer in South Dakota doesn’t last forever, and it’s really beautiful. This feels like a good season to notice it more.
Making the viral Jennifer Aniston salad.
In a perfect collision of decades, one of the ’90s’ most iconic TV stars has resurfaced in modern food culture. Yes, that salad (allegedly eaten on the set of Friends) has made the rounds again, thanks to TikTok.
Whether or not the story is entirely accurate, the idea works for me. I want to eat a little better this summer, and this mix quinoa, chickpeas, fresh vegetables, herbs, feta, and a simple lemon olive oil dressing sounds both healthy and doable.
Sometimes the smallest habits are the best
way to go.
Writing a handwritten letter. This one might be the biggest stretch.
There was a time when writing letters was simply how we stayed connected. I wrote to friends regularly, especially those I didn’t see often. Now, of course, communication is instant. Texting has replaced nearly everything.
But I wonder what it would feel like to slow that process down again, to sit with a pen and paper, to choose words more thoughtfully, to send something tangible through the mail.
There’s a bit of effort involved: finding stationery, locating a decent pen, deciding who might actually want to receive a handwritten letter. That last part may be the hardest.
Still, it feels worth trying.
So there you have it: the beginnings of my “throwback summer.” A quieter, slower approach shaped by habits that once came naturally.
Maybe your favorite decade isn’t the ’90s. Maybe your version of nostalgia looks entirely different. But I’d wager there’s something in your past, some small, meaningful rhythm, that could be brought forward into your present.
If there is, consider this your invitation..
friends& family
Creative Summer Crafts
for Kids
BY JESS WEISCHEDEL
Long summer days are the perfect time for colorful crafts, outdoor inspired projects, and hands on fun. These easy kid friendly activities use simple supplies you may already have at home and make great boredom busters for warm afternoons.
Watermelon Slice Fan
Supplies:
Paper plate, jumbo craft stick, scissors, glue, paintbrushes, and green, pink, white, and black paint.
How to Make It:
Cut a triangle shaped wedge from a paper plate so it resembles a watermelon slice. Paint the curved outer edge green and paint the craft stick green as well. Once dry, fill the center with bright pink paint. Add a thin white stripe between the green and pink sections to create the watermelon rind. When the paint has dried completely, use black paint to dot on watermelon seeds.
Glue the craft stick to the back of the plate wedge to create a handheld fan that’s both cute and practical for hot summer days.
Glow-in-the-Dark Fireflies
Supplies:
Plastic Easter egg, flameless LED tea light, pipe cleaners, thumbtack, silver duct tape, white sticker paper, and black marker.
How to Make It:
Use a thumbtack to carefully poke holes in the smaller half of the plastic egg for the antennae. Push short pieces of pipe cleaner through the holes and curl the ends.
Create eyes using white stickers and draw pupils and a smile with a marker. Next, poke three holes on each side of the egg and thread pipe cleaners through to create six legs. Bend the bottoms slightly so the firefly can stand upright.
Cut wing shapes from silver duct tape and attach them to the top of the egg. Place the LED tea light inside, switch it on, and close the egg. The result is a glowing little bug kids will love showing off after sunset.
Backyard Explorer Binoculars
Supplies:
Two cardboard toilet paper tubes, scrapbook paper, paint, glue, tape, scissors, hole punch, and yarn or string.
How to Make It:
Either paint the tubes or cover them with paper. Measure and cut colored or decorative paper to fit around each cardboard tube. Glue the
paper into place and allow it to dry.
Attach the two tubes side by side using tape or glue to form binoculars. Punch one hole on the outside edge of each tube and tie string or yarn through the holes so kids can wear them around their necks.
Decorate with stickers, markers, or stamps, then head outside for a backyard adventure searching for birds, bugs, flowers, and other summer discoveries.
Footprint Flip-Flop Keepsake
Supplies:
Construction paper, washable paint, drinking straws, scissors, glue, and optional decorations.
How to Make It:
Paint the bottom of your child’s foot and press it firmly onto construction paper to create a footprint. Let the paint dry completely.
Cut around the footprint shape so it resembles the sole of a flip flop sandal. Cut small sections of drinking straw to create the sandal straps and glue them into place.
Kids can finish their flip flops with stickers, glitter, gems, or drawings. These make adorable summer keepsakes to save year after year.
Animals Looking for
We are available for adoption at the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society unless noted.
Pepper, best friend of Hector and Ruth Ann Curriel Oakley, best friend of the Thomas family
Vivian, Best friend of the Kielhold family
HURRICANE Terrier / Mix | 1 Year
MILLIE Retriever / Labrador / Terrier
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
Percy, best friend of Tammy
Dakota, best friend of Kaye and Warren
Boomer, best friend of Al & Sherry Cramer
Best BOOKS
These are just some of the wonderful books for children we have come across this month. We hope to share with you some you have not seen before and also introduce others being released in the near future. Enjoy.
Sora’s Seashells A Name Is a Gift to Be Treasured
Written
by
Helena Ku Rhee
A lyrical narration and luminous illustrations tell an uplifting intergenerational story of kindness and confidence, loss and remembrance, with resonance for any child who feels other than. Candlewickpress.com
Mommy’s Hometown
Written
by Hope Lim
When a young boy and his mother travel overseas to her childhood home in Korea, the town is not as he imagined. Will he be able to see it the way Mommy does? Candlewickpress.com
Mauntie and Me
Written
by Rajani LaRocca
What grows when you share it? A tender story of extended family, jealousy pangs, and above all love, from the Newbery Honor–winning author of I’ll Go and Come Back. Candlewickpress.com
Sarang Saves the School
Written by Korena Di Roma Howley
At a seaside school in a sunny fishing village, Sarang and her classmates are surrounded by empty desks. More and more families have been moving away, and, with so few students, their rural school may be forced to close. Their village may be getting smaller, but it’s still home—a place filled with love and memories. So Sarang hatches a plan. Candlewickpress.com
Dancing Dumplings for My One and Only
Written by Eva Wong Nava
When her grandmother falls ill, a young girl pours her love, memories, and worry into the dumplings her grandmother taught her to make in this heartwarming—and mouthwatering—picture book. Candlewickpress.com
Wednesday Is for Wiggling!
Written by Eva Wong Nava
One child’s week holds something special every day in this sweet, upbeat story with extra appeal for diverse families of all kinds. Candlewickpress.com
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.
