Living Life Living Life Toget Together her Where life is shared, celebrated, and lived fully
WHERE HOME BEGINS At Peaceful Pines, we believe senior living should feel like home, warm, welcoming, and full of life. Our communities are designed to support independence, foster meaningful relationships, and celebrate each person’s story. MOMENTS THAT MAKE LIFE MEANINGFUL From everyday moments to milestone celebrations, life at Peaceful Pines is shaped by connection, purpose, and joy. Whether it’s sharing a laugh, trying something new, or simply feeling supported, we’re living life together, every day. F i n d your Find y o u r next n e x t chapter c h a p t e r at at Peaceful P e a c e f u l Pines Pines
Communities Across South Dakota Rooted in South Dakota. Built on connection.
BROOKINGS FORT PIERRE HURON MADISON MILBANK MITCHELL (opening fall 2026) RAPID CITY SPEARFISH
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COVER STORY
EMPIRE A
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M A G A Z I N E
CONTRIBUTORS ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jill Foley 712-490-8506 | jill@michelscom.com Lucas Smith 605-254-1787 | lucas@michelscom.com Hanna Sitting Crow (CEO) 605-760-4269 | hanna@michelscom.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Makenzie Jorgenson Mack Nelsen
PHOTOGRAPHY Kate Jones Studios, Chapters in Focus, LLC, Drift Media Co. & DaleTree, Siouxland Heritage Museums, Evermor Photography, Baya Rae Photography, Erika Bratten-Cianca, Catie Muller, Kinsy Selby
SISTERS FIRST Erin Vande Lune and Sarah Roe
TEAM OF WRITERS Andrea Van Essen, Natalie Frazier, Dorothy Rosby, Erica Wilcox, Joseph Cottle, Kim Fickett, Kory Lanphear, Lauren Johnson, Lisa Svobodny, Samantha Brockhouse
EDITORS
COVER STORY
Heather Jordan heather@michelscom.com Margi Culhane margi@michelscom.com
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REGIONAL SALES MANAGER Kevin Culhane 605-661-8509 | kevin@michelscom.com
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Melissa Chinn 605-310-7563 | melissa@michelscom.com
VICE PRESIDENT / DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MARKETING Cory Johnsen 605-951-3567 | cory@michelscom.com
EVERY SPACE AND SEASON BEGINS WITH FAMILY Angelica Wojtanowicz © Copyright 2026 Michels Communications Corporation All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the expressed written permission from the publisher. Michels Communications Corporation does not necessarily endorse or agree with content of articles or advertising presented.
Every month, Empire & BHL feature local human interest stories, along with articles on beauty, family, careers and health, all complemented by beautiful photography. We also showcase local businesses, inspiring people, and beautiful homes, and encourage professionals and businesses to submit articles and share their expertise. Want to subscribe? Email us at hello@michelscom.com, a one year subscription is only $60.
CONTENTS
Table of
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DOPAMINE DRESSING Empire Best Dressed Blonde
“BEE” THE HOPE Empire Community Spotlight
THE BIRDCAGE Empire History
THE GIFT OF LETTING GO Peaceful Pines Senior Living
ANDREW PESCHONG Empire Featured Artist
70 54 56 66 73
REAL WOMEN WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES
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MORE SPACE & MORE TO DISCOVER
Dorothy Rosby
DO YOU BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF ART Dahl Arts Center
EXPERT CARE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Sanford Health
HOME IN THE HILLS Presentd by Engle & Völkers
Antiques 1876 | Rita & Mandi’s
SKY HIGH OVER DEVILS TOWER BHL Community Spotlight
EmpireLifestyleMagazine.com | BlackHillsLifestyle.com PO Box 91606, Sioux Falls, SD 57109 605-332-0421 | michelscom.com
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GREATZOO.ORG
Sisters First By Andrea Van Essen | Photography by Kate Jones Studios
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Erin Vande Lune and Sarah Roe have shared many titles over the years — nurses, midwives, and now founders and business partners — but the first was sisters. Growing up in Lennox, South Dakota, they got to experience the joys and challenges of family business firsthand. Their grandfather started an auction house that their father later took over, and the whole family had involvement over the years. That early exposure taught them a lasting lesson: family comes first. It’s a principle they held onto as they built Flourish Wellness & Birth Co. and learned to balance their personal and professional lives, an especially challenging task when working with close family in a field that doesn’t fit neatly into normal business hours.
Sarah water skiing at their family cabin. She learned to ski when she was eight
“We’re very strong family people,” Sarah shares. “When we first started, we would use the analogy of juggling balls. Some are rubber and will bounce back, and others are glass, and those are the ones we don’t want to drop. Family is the glass.” Though they grew up around the family business, the sisters never imagined they would eventually start one together. In fact, their journeys to midwifery were anything but straightforward.
Erin and husband Rob in Alaska
Erin’s path began with an interest in medicine. She initially pursued the pre-med route, but after needing back surgery early in her marriage, she stepped away from school for a year to complete a licensed practical nursing program, where she quickly discovered a passion for patient care. That experience led her to explore nursing further, eventually earning a degree in molecular biology while living in California. After starting a family, moving back to the Midwest and also spending three years serving in Haiti with her husband, Rob, Erin’s perspective on health care, motherhood and community continued to evolve.
Jeremy and Sarah in Alaska for their 20 year anniversary
While in Haiti, she got to see the importance of supporting women and families in the setting of a clinic and orphanage. The work focused not simply on caring for patients and children, but on finding ways to strengthen and support families and communities whenever possible. Sarah’s trajectory was also non-linear. After graduating from South Dakota State University with a journalism degree, she spent time working in broadcast journalism, including an internship with NBC News in Washington, D.C. She enjoyed the experience but soon realized the fast-paced, often cutthroat, environment was not where she wanted to build her career. Back home in Sioux Falls, a job with Delta Air Lines
Erin water skiing at their family cabin
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Erin with Rob cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes
Sarah and family at 2026 State “A” Wrestling Tournament
Erin, Rob, Toby, Addy, Gracie, Karys
allowed her to travel, but she soon found herself drawn toward health care. She returned to school through South Dakota State University’s accelerated nursing program and began working at Sanford Health in critical care before transitioning to labor and delivery. Over several years, she cared for mothers and babies, served as a maternal flight nurse, and gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of the birth experience. “I always volunteered to take the natural births, the pain-free births, the water births,” Sarah explains. “I just had more of an affinity toward that.” 10 n EMPIRE
In 2015, they both began midwifery school through Frontier Nursing University and, after graduating, were both hired at Sanford. According to Erin, Sanford never hired new midwife graduates, but this time, they hired two. For seven years, they cared for families in the hospital setting. But over time, they began to feel a growing desire for something more intimate. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified conversations already happening in health care about connection, communication, and the role of relationships in medicine. For Sarah and Erin, it only served to emphasize what they believed was lacking: the human side of care.
“Midwifery is a relationship,” Erin says. “That relationship and community got so hard.” Sarah recalls working so hard to care for patients at a time when even the most basic touchpoints felt strained. “I remember not being able to support a labor mom without wearing a mask,” she recalls. “There were all these women who would go through an entire pregnancy, labor and delivery and never see their provider’s face.” That lack of connection quickly turned into a mindset of fear. “So many women and practitioners started having this fear-based approach to birth,” Sarah adds. “Women were delivering without their spouses; they couldn’t have family around them, and birth is such a community. New moms were bringing babies home to a very isolated motherhood, and it was a pretty dark and lonely time for a lot of people.” Both sisters recall the hospital as a dark place during that season. Sometimes, though, it takes a dark, challenging season to highlight a real need. “I think God gave us this vision of, ‘OK, we’re entering into the beginning of the second half of our lives; how do we want to spend our time?’” states Erin. The answer, they realized, was cultivating community. It marked a turning point, where something that had once seemed like a one-off idea began to feel like a calling. “I remember back when we were graduating together from midwifery school, I said, ‘Wouldn’t it be so fun to own a birth center someday?’” Erin continues. “Sarah could not fix her face. She was like, ‘No.’” Yet as their experience in the hospital setting continued to evolve, the idea of working together on their own venture began to feel more realistic for both of them. And in fact, their differences, Sarah says, are part of what makes the partnership work. “Yes, we’re sisters, but we’re very different humans,” she reveals. “Being a bit older when we started this, we’d done a lot of work both on ourselves and on getting to know each other and how to communicate well. That blends a business well.”
Jeremy, Sarah, Leah (18), Caden (16), Ryker (13)
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After years of learning how to communicate, understand each other and make room for one another’s strengths, they have created something that reflects both who they are and what they value.
requiring long labors, middle-of-the-night calls, and support for families through grief and loss.
“I don’t think we could have ever envisioned what Flourish would become; we just thought we were going to catch babies outside the hospital. We couldn’t see far enough ahead, and we never put God in a box. We always want him to move and change and grow us, usually in ways we never expect,” Sarah shares.
“If anything threatens this, if it feels insurmountable, we have to be sisters at the end of the day,” Erin affirms. “We’re willing to let this go and protect and preserve that relationship.”
They first began seeing patients in a downtown law office in April 2022. Their first baby was born just one month later. By August of that year, they had moved into a clinic space, and by October of the following year, the first baby was born at Flourish’s current birth center, a welcoming space for families, complete with a full clinic and two spacious birth suites. From the start, Flourish has provided a more intimate approach to pregnancy, birth and postpartum care. The center intentionally limits the number of births it takes each month, allowing the sisters and their team to maintain the relationships that inspired the practice from the beginning. “It’s about knowing people. It’s about being present,” states Erin. That philosophy extends beyond birth itself. The sisters now care for families through a broader range of wellness services, getting to watch children grow and continuing relationships long after delivery day. “Obviously, we started with birth,” Erin explains. “But now we have something for the whole family. Watching moms and babies flourish, getting to be there with them and become a trusted presence in their lives — that feels really unique.” Running a business together has not always been easy. The sisters acknowledge that midwifery can be emotionally and physically demanding,
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But protecting their relationship remains their highest priority.
Thankfully, the sisters have learned over time how to make space for each other and take breaks when necessary. “God has been so provisional and present,” Erin notes. “It’s just God’s grace in knowing when we need space, how to push on things, how we balance each other and how we process.” She adds that watching their parents operate the family business provided insight as well. “We really watched those dynamics and saw how they affected relationships,” Erin adds. Practically, Sarah says they try to cover each other as much as possible so that neither has to miss many family events. “If my son has a football game, or her daughter is in soccer, we try to cover each other. The main priority is not missing things as much as possible, and we also try to get away together outside of work so we can both have that time,” she explains. Both sisters love spending time outdoors and attending their families’ various activities. Erin has four children: Gracie, Karys, Addy and Toby, and Sarah has three: Leah, Caden, and Ryker. In many ways, the relationships they’ve spent a lifetime building with each other and their own families have become the model for the relationships they’re building with every family they serve.
Fun Facts
Flourish is the first and only independent, midwife-owned birth center in the state of South Dakota.
Erin is the oldest, Sarah is the middle child, and they also have a younger sister, Megan, who lives in Denver. Erin met her husband, Rob, on a mission trip to West Virginia, and they had a long-distance relationship until they got married. Sarah, on the other hand, met her husband, Jeremy, in high school. Aside from her internship in Washington, D.C., Sarah has never lived outside of South Dakota, whereas Erin went to college in Iowa and lived in California and Haiti before moving back to Sioux Falls. Erin and Sarah are hoping to expand Flourish with a third full-time midwife. Reach out if interested!
Sister camping trip: Megan, Erin, Sarah
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See How It Works
By Joseph Cottle | Photography by Drift Media Co. & DaleTree
On the surface, it looks like Tim Schoffelman builds decks. What he’s really building is somewhere for a family to rest. “It’s creating that environment of encouragement where people can gather around and really forget about the worries of life and focus on what’s really important,” Tim explains. “It’s those relationships and that inviting environment that make people want to hang out with each other.” That’s the frame Tim works from. The inside of the house might be chaos with kids, laundry, and toys on every surface, but the deck out back is the place where none of that follows you. His job is to build it well enough that it stays that way. Low maintenance, long-lasting, and good-looking enough that people actually want to be out there. When homeowners start asking about the best materials for a deck project, Tim’s answer usually starts with a question back: What do you actually need this deck to do? Wood still has a place. Cedar tone, a brown pressure-treated lumber that comes pre-stained, holds up well in heat and handles larger dogs who’d scratch a composite surface to pieces. For homeowners who want a solid utility deck without the premium price tag, Tim still recommends it. But the conversation in most project consultations has shifted. “Even more now, it’s composite and PVC,” Tim shares. “Homeowners are moving toward PVC because it’s lighter, it doesn’t absorb the heat as much, and oftentimes it can handle an environmentally friendly salt in the winter.”
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That heat factor matters more than most people realize. What gets marketed broadly as “composite” is actually a spectrum. At the entry level, brands like Trex and TimberTech build boards from a mixture of wood fiber and plastic that are durable, good-looking, and backed by a 25-year limited warranty. But darker colors absorb heat, and on a July afternoon, that’s something barefoot kids and curious pets will notice. As manufacturers push their warranties toward 50 years, the boards shift from composite construction to full PVC, the same base material as plumbing pipe, just colored and textured. PVC runs roughly twice the cost of a base-tier board. The tradeoff is a surface that manages heat significantly better, holds up longer, and in many cases comes with a labor warranty that covers the installer’s work, not just the product. Wolf rounds out the three brands Tim’s team is certified in, alongside Trex and TimberTech. That certification matters. Each manufacturer has its own
installation quirks that a general contractor may not know. On Trex boards, for example, the ends need to be cut during installation, which seals the board. Skip that step, and you’ve voided the warranty before the deck is even done. “A lot of folks, especially just regular contractors, don’t always know the ins and outs of the products they’re dealing with,” Tim adds. “That’s where we tend to specialize.”
CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 605-549-1188
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The maintenance question is where composite and PVC really separate themselves from wood. Once a spring, Tim recommends rinsing off the winter dust. That’s about it. For light surface scratches, homeowners can use a hair dryer or heat gun to gently feather heat into the mark until it melts back into the board’s pattern. Tim is quick to add, “Don’t hover on one spot. Work the heat in gradually.” For Tim, the whole material conversation points back to the same thing: a deck that doesn’t demand your attention is a deck you’ll actually use. Build something you don’t have to think about, and you’ll find yourself out there a lot more. VOLUME 6 ISSUE 11 n 19
“LIVE AT THE DISTRICT”
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3401 E. 10th St. Sioux Falls
By Erica Wilcox with Best Dressed Blonde
trend worth writing about that’s all the buzz in fashion! What is it? ‘Dopamine Dressing’ is wearing colors and clothes that spark personal joy, boost your mood and trigger the release of dopamine, the feel-good hormone. Before we dive into the how-tos of this, here are the overall concepts: bold hues, feel-good fabrics, color-blocking, louder prints & patterns, prioritizing favorite trending styles, and more. Implementing this dressing will completely transform the way you look at getting ready for the day, as well as transform your wardrobe. Goodbye, drawer of disappointment! Where do you start to implement this trend? There are a couple of different places to start, but my personal favorite is by implementing colors that complement your skin tone. Once I found out that I was a summer, I would wear those colors and feel instantly more confident and more put-together. If finding out your color season seems intimidating, you can always start by simply implementing more vibrant colors that you like. Each season brings new trending colors, and vibrant colors, like red, yellow, and pink, evoke energy and optimism when worn. Simply ask yourself: what are my favorite colors, and which color do I get compliments on when I wear it? Dive deeper into those colors. If head-to-toe vibrant colors seem too fast too soon, start with your accessories. Add a pop of dopamine dressing with your jewelry, fun footwear or a statement bag. Make sure that you’re staying true to textures that are comfortable and that you’ll enjoy wearing. This trend prioritizes comfort and personal style to show up and feel your best. Once you’ve narrowed in on your colors, it’s time to start exploring and playing around. Whether you’re going to a thrift shop or a department store, this is the part where you get to experiment with what looks like you and something you’re looking forward to wearing. I use this opportunity to start creating outfits and find that it’s easiest and best to do this in person, as sometimes website pictures don’t show true-to-life colors. 22 n EMPIRE
The mall is a great place to find so many options, all at your fingertips. Browse the store and grab anything that suits your colors, fabrics, and styles. I like to then head to the dressing room or spread things out in my cart and start layering or trying on to see how it looks and feels together. If you’ve found a winning combination, take a picture and save it in your phone; that way, when the time comes to create the look at home, you won’t forget what you put together. If you need inspiration, head to Pinterest and type in ‘Dopamine Dressing’ and your favorite color. You’ll get loads of outfit ideas and
can then search for those specific items in person or online. Don’t be afraid to step out of your box. You may just find that ‘Dopamine Dressing’ was all you needed to start enjoying your outfits again!
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www.StoneyBrookSuites.com 24 n EMPIRE
If you’re considering assisted living, we are here to help every step of the way. Schedule a tour and see the quality of life available to you or your loved one.
Celebrating 20 years in Sioux Falls
OUR MISSION We are a full-service assisted living community “To foster the well-being of each resident by nurturing the mind, body, and spirit while maintaining each resident’s enjoyment of independence and dignity in a secure and supportive environment. We invite you to come to StoneyBrook Suites, where our joy is in serving you.”
Because after 20 years, one thing remains true.
Life is sweet in StoneyBrook Suites.
AMENITIES • Coffee Shop • Salon • Walk-in Whirlpool Spa • Centrally located meals and activities
Jody Elton Administrator Sioux Falls 605-373-0013
• Theater • Courtyards • Spacious suites all on one level
SERVICES • Caring, trusted, 24-hour staff • Personal housekeeping and laundry • Scheduled daily social and exercise activities • Wellness clinic
• Three homestyle meals per day • Professional medication administration • On-site physical, restorative and cognitive therapy • Personal pendant system • Assistance with activities of daily living
StoneyBrook Suites Assisted Living
Sioux Falls 605-373-0013 Brookings 605-627-4445 Dakota Dunes 605-242-0013 Huron 605-352-0014 Watertown 605-882-0013 Dakota Dunes
Life is Sweet in Stoneybrook Suites
4501 E. PAMPAS PL., SIOUX FALLS, SD 57110 VOLUME 6 ISSUE 11 n 25
By Lauren Johnson
What started with a handful of stickers and a simple act of kindness has grown into a movement rooted in one powerful belief: it's OK not to be OK. Live Inspired 365 was born from a conversation between two moms who share a deep passion for mental health advocacy and an even deeper desire to make people feel seen. When cofounder Chantelle Friedman's daughters wanted to buy journals for patients receiving behavioral health care, she created a few stickers and posted them online, hoping to raise just enough to make it happen. That small gesture caught the attention of her friend Michelle Thie. "She told me she wanted to do more," Chantelle recalls, and with those five words, a partnership and a purpose came to life. Both women had been affected by the realities of mental illness, whether through anxiety, eating disorders, self-harm, depression, or Chantelle’s loss of her dad to suicide, realities that affected their friends, family, and neighbors as well. “By talking about it, we learned we needed to do more to promote mental health in our community and to get more people talking about it,” Chantelle explains. They launched Live Inspired 365 in 2022 with a mission to provide resources, spark conversations, and offer hope to people navigating mental health challenges. “With a lot of support from a lot of people, we were able to quickly get started,” Chantelle adds. The store started online from Chantelle’s basement, selling items for positivity and encouragement. In the three and a half years since, not only have they moved twice for more space, but they need to move again from their current location at 3701 W. 49th Street because they need even more space to hold more people and do more projects. “It’s a little tricky to find, but we’d love to get more people in the door so we can reach more people,” Chantelle continues. Their shop now offers apparel, jewelry, home goods, self-care items, paper goods, stickers, and more. Resources are also available in the store to help people discover what’s available to them or to find a mental health provider. “I think what sets us apart is that we give 100% back to the people who are struggling,” Chantelle says. “The volunteers who run this organization are passionate about mental health and do everything from staffing the store to assembling care packages. We want to spark conversations about it, and we know we get to do that with the items we sell. Even the stickers carry a personal touch: each one is stamped personally on the back with the words ‘from someone who cares’ and has a unique story, just like each one of us.” The store has become more than a place to shop. People often walk in looking for a 26 n EMPIRE
gift and end up staying to talk. “We’ve had people say, ‘You are so much more than just a gift shop,’” Chantelle notes. “People tell us they know it’s a judgment-free zone, and they don’t have to hide anything.” The bumblebee theme woven throughout the shop: Bee Strong, Bee Kind, Bee Happy, Bee Inspired, adds a gentle reminder that everyone is welcome to simply “bee.” Beyond the shop, Live Inspired 365 runs several community programs, including the Reach In Caring Companions Program, created with two other organizations: Fight Like a Ninja and the Longley Foundation. Their newest initiative, the Inspiring Hope Project, provides financial assistance to independent providers so Sioux Falls patients are able to continue therapy during financial hardship. “We’re helping people stay with their current provider when they’re in a moment of desperation,” Chantelle says. “It’s been wildly amazing to see the number of people we’ve been able to impact in such a short time.”
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It is because of a gift from The 437 Project that Live Inspired 365 was able to roll out this new project sooner than they were anticipating. “The 437 Project sends twelve runners who run across the state of South Dakota. They gave us a gift, and that’s what we did with it,” Chantelle explains.
Scan to donate.
Live Inspired 365 welcomes visitors, volunteers, and anyone who simply needs a place to talk and "bee". You can visit their shop in person or online, explore their mission at liveinspired365.org, or make a financial donation to support their programs. Every purchase and every dollar goes directly into the hands of people who need it most.
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LIVEINSPIRED365.ORG (605) 271-6167 VOLUME 6 ISSUE 11 n 27
YOUR PET
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Your pet deserves the best. That’s why Paws Pet Resort is here: to give your pets the best care possible. At our luxury pet resort, your furry family members will enjoy state-of-the-art facilities like an HVAC system, specially designed kennels and floors, and personalized care second only to your own. And the best part? It’s all for a good cause, we donate a portion of our proceeds to local and world wide organizations.
PREMIUM SERVICES. TAIL-WAGGING EXPERIENCES.
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JUDY THOMPSON Sylvan Shores • 10” X 17” • Water & Charcoal on Mounted Panel
www.rehfeldsonline.com 431 N Phillips Ave – Sioux Falls, SD • 605.336.9737
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22TEN Kitchen Cocktails
Jersey Mike’s
2210 W. 69th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57108
4908 S. Louise Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Roam Kitchen & Bar
Kentucky Fried Chicken
4525 W. Empire Pl., Sioux Falls, SD 57106
300 S. Kiwanis, Sioux Falls, SD 57104
22TEN Kitchen Cocktails in Sioux Falls is a locally owned restaurant featuring “American Eclectic” cuisine with innovative artisan dishes and everyday classics. Its full bar serves hand-crafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients alongside beer and wine, making it a great spot for dinner and drinks.
ROAM Kitchen + Bar is a welcoming gathering place where the spirit of the American frontier meets contemporary charm. In a comfortable reclaimed space, guests enjoy a rustic scratch kitchen centered on woodfire cooking, along with an extensive selection of bourbon, beer, and wine, the perfect setting to relax and reminisce about simpler times.
Jersey Mike’s Subs is a fast-casual sandwich shop known for its fresh-sliced subs, baked bread, and “Mike’s Way” toppings with oil, vinegar, lettuce, onions, and tomatoes. The restaurant is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and offers dine-in, pickup, catering, and delivery options.
Kentucky Fried Chicken is a fast-food restaurant in Sioux Falls known for its fried chicken, chicken sandwiches, and family meal buckets. The location offers convenient dine-in, drivethru, and takeout options for customers on the city’s west side.
A&W Restaurant
A&W Restaurant on East 10th Street in Sioux Falls is a classic fast-food spot known for its burgers, hot dogs, cheese curds, and signature root beer floats served in frosty mugs. The restaurant shares space with KFC and offers a nostalgic, family-friendly atmosphere with dine-in and drive-thru service. 3401 E. 10th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57103
Tell us who you’d like to see featured! Email your favorite foodie spot to hello@michelscom.com
By Samantha Brockhouse | Photos by Siouxland Heritage Museums
or more than six decades, the Sioux Falls Stadium has welcomed thousands of baseball fans through its gates. Better known as the Birdcage, the stadium has become one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and has been home to countless summer memories since opening in 1964. However, the Birdcage is only one chapter in Sioux Falls baseball history. Baseball has been part of the community since the 1880s, long before the stadium was built. One of the city’s earliest teams earned the nickname the Canaries because of its bright yellow uniforms. Professional baseball officially arrived in Sioux Falls in 1902, and while teams, leagues, and even ballparks have changed over the years, the game has remained a constant in the ever-changing community. More than 60 years later, the Sioux Falls Stadium remains one of the most recognizable landmarks, and before long, the locals gave it the nickname that has stuck ever since: The Birdcage. While renovations have modernized the stadium with updated seating, fan amenities, and improvements to the field, it has never lost the character that makes it feel like a classic ballpark. For many families, attending Canaries games has become a summer tradition passed down from one generation to the next.
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By the early 1960s, that long-standing tradition had outgrown its existing home. City leaders envisioned a new stadium that could support professional baseball while creating a gathering place for fans throughout the summer. Construction on the Sioux Falls Stadium began in 1963, and on June 18, 1964, the facility officially opened its gates and has since flourished. The current Sioux Falls Canaries franchise has called The Birdcage home since 1993, when it became one of the founding members of the independent Northern League. The organization later joined the American Association in 2006, where it continues to compete today as part of Major League Baseball’s Partner League program. Just two years after joining the league, the Canaries celebrated one of the biggest milestones in franchise history by capturing the 2008 league championship. Longtime fans may also remember the franchise’s brief rebrand as the Sioux Falls Fighting Pheasants from 2010 through 2012. While the name change sparked plenty of conversation, the return of the Canaries name in 2013 reconnected the team with a baseball tradition that dates back more than 100 years. What truly sets the Birdcage apart, however, is the role it has played in the Sioux Falls community for generations. While it remains home to the Sioux Falls Canaries, the stadium has grown into a year-round gathering place, hosting dozens of baseball games each season alongside concerts, music festivals, community celebrations, charity events, youth tournaments, and other special events that contribute to the community. As Sioux Falls continues to grow, conversations about the future of baseball in the city will undoubtedly continue. Regardless of what comes next, the Birdcage has already secured its place in local history. It stands as a reminder that baseball has always been more than just a game in Sioux Falls; it’s a tradition that has connected the community for nearly 140 years. Whether you’re a lifelong Canaries fan or attending your first game this season, stepping into the Birdcage means becoming part of that story. It’s a place where history and tradition continue to meet, one summer evening at a time.
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THE GIFT by Lisa Svobodny
of Letting Go Whether you call it downsizing, rightsizing, or decluttering, to many of us, it just sounds overwhelming. But it can also be the greatest gift we can give to our loved ones. My husband has been asking me for several years to pare down our belongings. He has explored all kinds of persuasion tactics, from the practical to the amusing. He once cleaned out a closet and made piles of items he wanted me to address, placing them in my path so I would “have to deal with them.” It didn’t work. I resisted for many reasons. The entire idea was exhausting. I have things from my grandparents that I never use, and probably never will, but it seems dishonorable to get rid of them. I am the poster child for keeping things because I never know when I might want them, and I am prepared for every possible hostess situation! My mother passed away last summer, and I saw the other side of the dilemma of stuff. I wanted to honor her belongings, but I simply couldn’t keep everything. It was difficult to decide what to save, what to donate, what to sell, and what to throw away. Things that took a lifetime to gather had to be sorted in a short time.
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It brought a new viewpoint for me: I don’t want my children to have to go through this. Downsizing has become less about getting rid of things and more about being thoughtful and kind. I’m asking myself these questions to guide my way: • Do I love this? • Do I use this? • How many of these do I have versus how many do I need? (I’m looking at you, coffee cups.) • Am I keeping this out of guilt or obligation? • Would someone else benefit from it? • If I didn’t own it, is it something I would buy today? My goal isn’t to live with empty closets and shelves. It’s to be more intentional about what stays. I’m learning to hold on to the things that make me smile and, one item at a time, part ways with things that don’t. Because I don’t know about you, but one day, I don’t want my kids to spend weeks sorting through these things. When that day comes, I will have done what I needed to do, so they can instead spend their time sharing memories of the traditions we built and the great times we spent together.
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By Samantha Brockhouse | Photography by Evermor Photography
Sometimes the best careers start completely by accident, and that’s exactly what happened to professional photographer Andrew Peschong. What started as a simple photo submission turned into a passion that lets him share the beauty of nature with other people. His story shows that taking chances, working hard, and doing what you love can lead to opportunities you never expected. Growing up in Brandon, South Dakota, Andrew spent most of his time outside. His dad was always taking him on outdoor adventures with a camera in hand, but photography wasn’t what caught his attention. He was more interested in mountain biking, backpacking, skiing, rock climbing, and just being out in nature. Andrew also became involved in search and rescue and medical work, eventually earning two national awards for saving lives. Even though photography wasn’t his focus back then, those experiences gave him a deep appreciation for the outdoors that would later become the inspiration behind his work.
F E AT U R E D A RT I S T
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It wasn’t until 2018 that photography really took off for Peschong. While working at Citibank, he submitted one of his photos to be in the South Dakota Bankers Calendar just to see what would happen. After his image was chosen, coworkers kept stopping him to ask about his photography, making him realize he might be onto something. That moment pushed him to take photography seriously, and he spent countless hours learning the technical and creative sides of the craft. One of Andrew’s favorite images, “Blush of the Badlands,” happened completely by accident. He and a group of friends had gone to the Badlands to photograph the Milky Way, but before it got dark, they noticed the sunset putting on an incredible show. They rushed across the road to find a good composition before the light disappeared. In just a few minutes, he captured what would become one of his
most popular photographs. It’s still one of his favorites because it reminds him that some of the best moments can’t be planned. “Blush of the Badlands” was recently selected for the South Dakota State Art Collection through the Art for State Buildings program. Out of the artwork submitted by 50 artists across the state, 10 pieces were selected to become part of the permanent public collection displayed in South Dakota government buildings. This piece will be installed at the Capitol in Pierre, South Dakota, for public display later this summer. “Photography has taken me to some incredible places, but there’s something especially meaningful about creating work close to home and knowing it will become part of a collection that people will experience for years to come,” Andrew shares. Andrew not only captivates his audience visually, but also emotionally. He wants the viewers to feel like they are standing there with him, taking familiar places that people already know and making them look completely different. Instead of taking simple snapshots, he waits for the perfect lighting, weather, and timing to bring in the ‘wow’ effect when they see his work. As Andrew’s career has grown, so has his perspective on photography. Traveling to places like Alaska, Botswana, Costa Rica, and the Faroe Islands has helped shape his eye for composition and light, but he says the biggest lesson wasn’t about where he traveled or what equipment he used. Instead, he learned that creating a memorable image comes from recognizing what makes a moment unique and knowing when to capture it. Today, Andrew photographs everything from landscapes and fine art prints to weddings and family portraits. No matter the subject, his goal is to create images that people connect with long after they’re taken. Whether someone hangs one of his photographs in their home or looks back on their wedding day years later, he hopes his work brings people back to that moment every time they see it. To view Andrew’s work or for more information, visit Evermor Photography at evermor.online.
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LARGER, LIFTED, OR LIGHTER? LET’S TALK BREAST SURGERY Just like no two melons are exactly alike, every woman’s body, anatomy, and goals are unique. That’s why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to breast surgery. Whether you’re hoping to enhance your curves, restore your shape after pregnancy, or find relief from the discomfort of overly large breasts, our board-certified plastic surgeons at Plastic Surgery Associates of South Dakota can help you determine which procedure is the best fit for you.
BREAST AUGMENTATION: ADD VOLUME & ENHANCE SHAPE
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed today. Using breast implants, augmentation can: Increase breast size Improve breast shape and symmetry Restore volume lost after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss Enhance overall body proportions During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss implant size, shape, profile, and placement to create results that complement your body and align with your aesthetic goals.
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Sometimes it’s not about wanting larger breasts—it’s about wanting them to sit higher. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, aging, and gravity can all cause the breasts to lose their youthful position. A breast lift (mastopexy) reshapes and elevates the breast tissue while repositioning the nipple for a firmer, more youthful appearance. A breast lift can: Lift sagging breasts Improve breast shape Reposition downward-pointing nipples Create a more youthful contour If you’d like more fullness in addition to a lift, breast augmentation can often be combined with a breast lift during the same procedure.
BREAST REDUCTION: LESS WEIGHT. MORE COMFORT.
For many women, overly large breasts can cause more than cosmetic concerns. Chronic neck, shoulder, and back pain, skin irritation, difficulty exercising, and finding clothes that fit comfortably can all become daily frustrations. Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue and skin to create breasts that are lighter, more proportional, and more comfortable. Benefits often include: Relief from neck, back, and shoulder pain Improved posture Easier participation in physical activities Better-fitting clothing and bras Increased confidence and comfort Many patients say breast reduction is one of the most life-changing procedures they’ve ever had.
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The right breast procedure depends entirely on your goals. You may benefit from: Breast Augmentation if you want more volume or fullness. Breast Lift if you’re happy with your size but would like a firmer, more lifted appearance. Breast Reduction if your breasts are causing physical discomfort or feel out of proportion with your body. In some cases, procedures can be combined to achieve the best possible outcome.
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No two patients—and no two treatment plans—are exactly alike. During your consultation at Plastic Surgery Associates of South Dakota, our experienced, boardcertified plastic surgeons will take the time to understand your concerns, discuss your goals, and recommend a personalized surgical plan designed specifically for you. Whether you’re looking for a little more fullness, a youthful lift, or lasting relief from heavy breasts, we’re here to help you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.
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Sky High Over Devils Tower By Lauren Johnson
“If someone leaves Fly Devils Tower with a new appreciation for Wyoming, its ranching heritage, and the importance of protecting landscapes like this, then we’ve accomplished exactly what we hoped.” - Andrea Wood
For three unforgettable days, Devils Tower becomes the backdrop for one of the most scenic and heartfelt hot air balloon gatherings in the country. It’s the iconic scene awaiting visitors at the Fly Devils Tower Hot Air Balloon Rally, a family fun weekend celebration at the Devils Tower / Black Hills KOA Journey from August 14-16. “Fly Devils Tower is a chance to experience something truly unforgettable in an epic location,” says Andrea Wood, the manager for the event. “There are balloon rallies all across the country, but there is only one Devils Tower.” For Andrea, the rally’s magic comes from the rare combination of place and purpose. The Driskill family has stewarded the Historic Campstool Ranch for generations, protecting the rangelands surrounding Devils Tower through conservation easements that ensure the views remain untouched forever. “When those balloons rise over Devils Tower at sunrise, they aren’t just flying over beautiful scenery—they’re flying over a landscape that represents generations of ranching, stewardship, and a commitment to preserving Wyoming’s western heritage,” Andrea says. “That’s something very few events can offer, and it’s what makes Fly Devils Tower so meaningful to our family.” 50 n BLACK HILLS LIFESTYLE
Set against the dramatic 1,267-foot rock formation, the Historic Campstool Ranch is a working cattle ranch where Andrea’s grandmother opened the campground shortly after the filming of Close Encounters of the Third Kind there in the late 1970s, and the first balloon launches began in the early 1980s. What started as a simple gathering has grown into an annual highlight that draws pilots, crews, and spectators from around the world. Only about 15 balloons are invited each year to ensure a wonderful experience for the pilots while creating incredible viewing opportunities for campground guests and the surrounding community. “It is early mornings, but they are so worth it when you feel the rush of heat from the propane burners, hear the rustle of the balloon silks, and even lend a hand as crew. It’s exhilarating!” Andrea emphasizes that everyone is welcome—whether you’ve chased balloon festivals for years or have never seen one up close. Nighttime brings its own magic during the Evening Balloon Glows, when the balloons light up against the darkening sky. “The glow nights in the campground are especially magical,” Andrea says.
FRIDAY & SATURDAY (AUGUST 14–15): 5:30 AM: Preflight Meeting (DTKOA Main Building) 6:00 AM: Flights 9:00 AM: Flight Breakfast and Champagne Ceremony (Campstool Cafe) FRIDAY EVENING: 7:00-9:00 PM: Glow Night (Lower Campground) SATURDAY EVENING: 6:00-9:00 PM: Live Music from Brian McCollum SUNDAY, AUGUST 16: Morning: Crew Flights
“Master balloonist Bruce Pivic serves as co-host, and he and the Wyoming Balloon help to make the event special. Damien and Keely at Black Hills Balloons are longtime participants and supporters as well. We are thankful for the past sponsorship of this event by Blakeman’s Propane of Moorcroft.” Andrea says that what sets this rally apart is how naturally it weaves together recreation and ranching heritage. “We believe agriculture, conservation, recreation, and tourism all have a place here,” Andrea explains. “Fly Devils Tower is our way of celebrating how those things can thrive together.” Campers at the KOA enjoy prime viewing, while day visitors can join the excitement from the grounds or combine a visit with time at nearby Devils Tower National Monument. “Watching colorful hot air balloons rise above the ranch and Devils Tower reminds me that preserving a place doesn’t mean keeping people out—it means inviting them in to experience it respectfully.”
We are looking for crew members and corporate sponsors: • Crew members receive a t-shirt and breakfast • Corporate Sponsorships are $1,500 and include a flight ticket, t-shirt and breakfast with Champagne Ceremony for first time fliers • Interested parties can contact: andrea@devilstowerkoa.com
To register or just take in the joy and beauty, visit www.devilstowerkoa.com.
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Start the school year on a sweet note with Eileen’s decorated cookies. Whether you’re celebrating the first day of school, welcoming teachers and staff back, or packing a special lunchbox surprise, our handcrafted cookies are the perfect treat to make back-to-school season even more memorable. 605-718-2842 www.eileenscookies.com 1109 W. Omaha St., Ste. F, Rapid City, SD
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Real Women Wear Comfortable Shoes By Dorothy Rosby
I didn’t see the movie Barbie when it
came out a few years ago. But I was happy to hear that by the end of it, Barbie had gone from being a doll in high heels to a real, live attractive woman wearing Birkenstocks. I don’t know what it took to get those iconic arched feet into more practical footwear, but I think the lesson is clear: Real women wear comfortable shoes. I’m reminded of this because August 17 is National I LOVE My Feet Day. I didn’t make it up but I am in favor of it. My feet deserve to be celebrated after
carrying
me
and
everything
I’ve been hauling around all these years. Sure, they’ve done their share of complaining. But no more than I have. So in honor of my feet, your feet and real Barbie’s too, I’m going to share my guidelines for treating our feet like we really do love them. The soles we save could be our own. Of course, it all starts with buying shoes. I always ask myself the following questions when I’m shoe shopping: 54 n BLACK HILLS LIFESTYLE
1. Yes, the shoe fits but will I wear it? A lot of fancy women’s shoes balance the weight of the entire body on heels the size of number two pencils. They come to a point where five toes are supposed to be and they arch from heel to toe like the tracks on a roller coaster. When I was younger I occasionally wore those kinds of shoes at special events. But I often wound up taking theam off and spending the evening stocking footed. Not only did that make a mess of my feet, it was also a real danger on the dance floor. 2. Could I walk a mile in these shoes? I not only want to be able to walk in my shoes, I want to be able to walk fast in them when I’m running late—which I often am. Feet are for walking and shoes are for feet. If I can’t walk in my shoes, I may as well use them for hammers. 3. Can I stand on my own two feet in these shoes? I know many women who wear heels to look taller. I empathize. I’d like to change a few of my features too. Luckily my height isn’t one of them. If I wore heels to look taller, I’d wind up sitting a lot because my feet hurt. Then I’d look even shorter.
4. Would I fall head over heels for these shoes? I’m not speaking metaphorically. I read that in 2019 there were more than 16,000 emergency room visits caused by high heel mishaps. Remarkably, that number decreased to 6,290 in 2020 during the pandemic lockdown when people were working from home. And it’s continued to drop since then. That proves what I’ve known all along. I’m better off working at home in my bedroom slippers. But falling isn’t the only danger of high heels. They redistribute weight incorrectly so that our body tilts forward and we lean back and overarch our back to compensate. This strains our knees, hips and lower back but does look very attractive. Not only that, high heels cause our feet to slide forward, squishing our toes like walnuts in a nutcracker. This can lead to hammertoes, corns, calluses, bunions and other painful injuries. Our feet could wind up looking like gnarled tree roots but at least our shoes will be cute.
5. Can I put my best foot forward in these shoes? Some fashion experts say shoes complete the outfit though I don’t think we should underestimate the importance of pants. I do like my shoes to be at least somewhat fashionable. But I happen to know that it’s possible to look foolish wearing even the classiest footwear. Many years ago I fell down a flight of stairs wearing a pair of cute platform heels. That didn’t look fashionable at all. Recently I caught a few minutes of a crime drama where an attractive villain held a gun to the back of the hero. The villain was wearing a pair of high heels—the kind that are so popular among young women who don’t have their bunions yet. Because of her shoes, she couldn’t walk heel to toe like less stylish criminals do. She took quick, bouncy steps like a needle on a sewing machine as she escorted the man from the room. In real life he could have just tipped her over and escaped because he had the good sense to wear comfortable shoes.
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Dorothy Rosby has had bunion surgery. She speaks from experience when she says surgical shoes are not at all fashionable.
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ANTIQUES 1876 AND RITA & MANDI’S HOME DÉCOR EXPANDS IN DEADWOOD! Now with more space and more to discover. By Ingrid Hayward In the heart of Deadwood, 1876 Antiques and Rita and Mandi’s Home Décor has quickly become a favorite stop for both locals and visitors. By blending antiques, Western charm, and creative home décor, the shop has earned a reputation for a shopping experience that’s just as memorable as what you’ll find on the shelves.
Walking through the store feels more like wandering through a collection than shopping in a retail store. Around every corner is something unexpected: a reclaimed farmhouse table, an old advertising sign, Western décor, and unique collectibles. It’s a reaction the owners hear all the time from first-time visitors. As one customer put it, “I didn’t know I liked or needed any of this stuff until I walked in here.”
“We have quickly become a must-stop shop for people because we truly have something for everyone,” states Joey. “From guns to glassware, that’s what we say, because we really do have it all,” adds Jeff.
That feeling of discovery keeps people coming back. The inventory changes constantly, and new treasures arrive on a regular basis, making every visit a little different from the last.
With business quickly outgrowing the current space, the store has expanded into additional space within the same building. The extra room allows the owners to bring in more inventory, spread out displays, and give shoppers even more to explore. Inside the shop, you’ll find viantage furniture, rustic Western décor, antique accents, collectibles, glassware, artwork, and one-of-a-kind pieces that don’t belong in a big-box store. Some items have been lovingly restored, while some are just waiting for the right person to take them home. The atmosphere is a large part of what makes the store special. Joey is always happy to help customers track down the perfectly imperfect piece, while Jeff has a knack for making visitors feel like old friends before they even reach the checkout counter. Nothing in the store is picked at random. Every piece is personally selected because it has something unique to offer, whether it’s craftsmanship, history, or simply the ability to catch someone’s eye. That’s one reason so many customers stop in every time they’re in Deadwood: there’s always something new on the floor. The expanded space also gives Rita and Mandi’s Home Décor more room to shine. Already a popular part of the business, it features refinished furniture, seasonal decorations, and home accents that pair naturally with the antiques throughout the store. Together, the two businesses show how vintage finds can fit beautifully into today’s homes.
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Visit 1876 Antiques and Rita and Mandi’s Home Décor at 460 Main Street in Deadwood. Follow the store on social media to see the latest arrivals and get a glimpse of what’s waiting the next time you stop in.
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