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CONTRIBUTORS team of writers Andrea Van Essen, Stacey Kracht, Allison Lutz, Erica Wilcox and Lauren Johnson

Account Executives Jill Foley 712-490-8506 | jill@michelscom.com Kevin Culhane 605-661-8509 | kevin@michelscom.com Chris Hilson 605-661-9940 | chris@michelscom.com

Editor Vanessa Carlson Bender vanessa@michelscom.com

Photography Shane Monahan Photography www.shanemonahanphotography.com TKColbert Photography www.tkcolbertphotography.mypixieset.com

graphic designers Makenzie Jorgenson Ashley Carrison

DIRECTOR OF DIGITIAL MARKETING Cory Johnsen cory@michelscom.com

chief of operations Hanna Michels 605-760-4269 | hanna@michelscom.com

ERICA WILCOX Best Dressed Blonde

06

Table of

CONTENTS THE GOSS OPERA HOUSE History

KNOW YOUR RISK, KNOW YOUR RESPONSE U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

NICK BURKE Featured Artist

THE BENEFITS OF SELLING YOUR HOME IN THE WINTER Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

FROM OUR KITCHEN TO YOURS StoneyBrook Suites

BEST DRESSED HOLIDAY GUEST Best Dressed Blonde

JINGLE ALL THE WAY TO A CURE Community Spotlight

IN MEMORIAM: DARYL HAASE B-Squad Dog Rescue

16 18 20 28 30 36 42 46

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5000 S. Minnesota Ave., Suite 300, Sioux Falls, SD 57108 | 605-332-0421 We encourage local professionals and businesses to submit articles. All articles are subject to publisher’s editing and approval. Empire Magazine does not necessarily endorse or agree with content of articles or advertising presented.

Every month Empire showcases local human interest stories along with beauty, fashion, family, home, career, health and nutrition information all with beautiful photography. We also feature businesses, men and women and homes in the Sioux Falls region. Want to subscribe to Empire? One year subscription is only $40.

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Erica Wilcox BEST DRESSED BLONDE By: Andrea Van Essen | Photos By: Shane Monahan Photography

Erica Wilcox has serious style savvy.

As a fashion blogger and influencer, Erica is known for sharing stylish, affordable looks on her website and social media channels for the moniker Best Dressed Blonde.

However, her retail expertise was in the works long before she started racking up likes and followers.

As a young girl in middle school, Erica says she used to ask her mom to drop her off at the Empire Mall on Sundays. Her mom would give her $10 or $20, and Erica would wander around by herself, exploring the shops.

“She was always fascinated by what I could come home with for only $10 or $20,” Erica said. “I was just amazed by what was trending, and I ended up getting my first retail job at 15 because all I wanted was to play around with clothes.”

That first job was at Old Navy, and not long afterward, she picked up a second job at Abercrombie, where she would rotate her weekends.

“I always had two jobs and was a bit entrepreneurial, just hustling,” she said.

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Raised in Sioux Falls, she moved to Brookings to attend South Dakota State University, where she studied fashion merchandising with a minor in business.

Her first job out of college was with Chico’s in Omaha, but after a year there, she was ready to return home to be near family. She ended up working as a shop manager at Scheels for a few years, followed by some time in outside sales and then finally as the marketing director for StoneyBrook Suites.

In 2018, while working for StoneyBrook, Erica started her blog, Best Dressed Blonde.

“I needed to get fashion back into my life somewhere, but I didn’t want to go back to traditional retail,” she said.

People had been telling her to build an online presence for a while, but living in the smaller market of Sioux Falls, she wasn’t sure if anyone would care. Still, she had all sorts of content ideas and finally decided to go for it.

As it turned out, people did care.

Five years later, Erica has nearly 50,000 followers on Instagram, and, as of May 2023, she was able to quit her full-time job to focus on content creation.

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She says that the flexibility this transition has provided is an enormous blessing for her family.

“Going for it was a leap of faith, but I was feeling so stressed maintaining my full-time responsibilities and trying to keep Best Dressed Blonde growing and thriving — something had to give,” she said.

Now, she is able to keep the focus on her family and her brand.

“You realize what actually matters, and it’s that time that you’re not going to get back, moments you don’t want to miss and the time your kids want to spend with you,” she said.

Shortly after going full-time with Best Dressed Blonde, Erica faced a situation that showed her even more clearly where her priorities needed to be. Her account was shut down by Instagram for 33 days, with next to no explanation for the action. Though she eventually managed to get back online, Erica says the experience was a wake-up call.

As an influencer, losing access to her main social platform left Erica hanging in terms of content creation and threatened to jeopardize her primary income stream.

“It taught me a lot about myself, my schedule and how I was prioritizing my day,” she said.

The main way influencers like Erica create income is through affiliate shopping — when followers purchase items via her specific links — and paid brand collaborations. Most of the brands she works with are more affordable online retailers and mall spots, such as Aerie, Amazon, Walmart, LOFT or Old Navy, but she appreciates local boutiques too, such as Primp in downtown Sioux Falls and Boss Boutique in Huron. In addition to fashion retailers, she also partners with the nontoxic skincare and makeup brand, Crunchi.

Being able to support her family by sharing content that expresses her passions is a dream come true for Erica. But what does that look like day to day?

On a typical morning, Erica says she posts a reel to Instagram, along with her daily deals. You know the weekly, if not daily, marketing emails that come from retailers like Amazon, Target, Old Navy and Express?

Erica says she gets 40 to 50 of those in her inbox every

“YOU REALIZE WHAT ACTUALLY MATTERS, AND IT’S THAT TIME THAT YOU’RE NOT GOING TO GET BACK, MOMENTS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS AND THE TIME YOUR KIDS WANT TO SPEND WITH YOU.”

-Erica Wilcox

day, and she spends time sifting through them each morning to share the best deals and sales with her followers.

From there, she records some form of video content each day, whether it be a makeup tutorial or a clothing haul. Then comes video editing — her least favorite part and something she dreams of having an assistant to manage someday — and content planning and pitching for the upcoming weeks and months. Staying on top of these tasks every day is crucial to maintaining an engaged following and providing value to the brands she partners with.

And ultimately, this lifestyle is reflected in the content she shares as Best Dressed Blonde. As her Instagram bio relays, Erica is a relatable mama who loves Jesus, sharing her passions and purpose through daily sales, fashion and clean beauty.

In between these tasks, she implements “blackout” times each day, as well as the entire day on Sunday, during which she stays completely off her phone to spend dedicated time with family — her husband Spencer and their two young children, Case and Cobie.

In addition to family time, Erica prioritizes taking time for herself with hot yoga and sculpt classes, as well as a Bible study with a group of women.

Erica’s mom, Ja n, and brother, Ross, have be greatest suppor en her t literally since day one

5 THINGS ABOUT

1 2 3 4 5

Erica Wilcox

Erica was voted “Bubbliest Personality” in elementary school, and she thinks that still holds true.

Erica is a Packers fan in a family of all Vikings fans, both when she was growing up and still to this day. She finally got to go to Lambeau this October.

Erica was actually a bit of a tomboy as a little kid — her mom said that Erica would rip out the bows she put in her hair.

ily

Erica’s fam

Erica’s bucket list country to travel to is Germany — she took three years of German in high school.

Erica is slightly obsessed with the TV show Golden Girls. She watched it with her mom growing up, and now it’s her comfort show.

Erica’s first

blogger pho

to

Erica feels very blessed to still have both of her grandmothers of whom she considers both amazing role models in her life and in motherhood ily

Erica’s fam

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By: Stacey K rac ht

The Goss Opera House located in Watertown is a cultural treasure to its community. The elegant venue embodies classical elegance and rich history, while welcoming modern entertainment and artistic expression.

Charles Goss came to the U.S. at age 11 from England.

After illness devastated his family, Charles, one surviving child, and a nanny moved to Watertown in 1879 where he built the original opera house in 1888. The structure burned down, and a determined Charles built another in 1889 for approximately $50,000.

Gilruth’s Department Store opened in the opera house in 1893, and the very first matched basketball game ever hosted in Watertown took place on the stage in 1906. The original slanted floor was converted to a dance hall in 1911, allowing the space to serve as a community building. The 37,000 square feet of the Goss has several rooms – a versatile space for office spaces and residences alike in the early 1900s.

Many stories have shaped the venue’s character over the years. Maud Alexander, who in 1936 lived on the third floor, was particularly legendary. After coming home to find her son had been drinking one day, the two got into a fight, and he later lit her on fire while she slept. After renovation, that room was left largely intact to honor Maud. Burn marks, falling plaster, and holes in the floor showcase the overall state of the building at the time.

For the next 60-70 years, the Goss was mostly dormant. In the early 2000s, David Berry bought the Goss and the commercial bank next door and merged the two. Brick walls painted with bank advertisements remain today. Berry made several improvements but despite his efforts, the Goss closed in 2018.

The community rallied, forming the Friends of the Goss nonprofit and raising $20,000 in just one day!

The Goss was purchased in 2018, and $5 million was raised for a complete overhaul including new flooring, a state-of-the-art lights and sound system, and a HVAC system.

The Goss Opera House is now in operation with three arms of business: event rental spaces; entertainment shows like concerts and movie showings; and an artistic and musical Passport to the Arts program for youth to participate in theater or choir. A gift shop and box office called Maud’s Mercantile is located on the ground floor, and the Goss is landlord to a retail and office space and a restaurant.

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Erica Wilcox BEST DRESSED BLONDE P H O T O G R AP H Y B Y S H ANE M O NAH AN

Entertainment Booking events@thegossoperahouse.com thegossoperahouse.com VOLUME 4 ISSUE 2 n 17

Know your Risk, Know your Response By: Allison Lutz, RD LN CDCES, Diabetes Education Coordinator, Sioux Falls VA

Did you know…?

One in 10 American adults is living with diabetes, and one in five of them do not know they have it. In addition, one in three Americans has prediabetes, which means they are at risk of developing diabetes. Of these, eight in 10 do not know they have prediabetes.

VA takes a special interest in diabetes care because numbers are even higher in the Veteran population – nearly 1 one in four Veterans has diabetes. Based on these numbers, it is likely that every person’s life is touched by diabetes in some way.

• Partner with your primary care provider to keep up

to date on all health screenings, including screening for diabetes.

If you do have diabetes, get the education you need to live your healthiest life and prevent complications.

• Enroll in a Diabetes Education program. Most

healthcare systems offer diabetes education. If you are a Veteran, the Sioux Falls VA offers a variety of options for Diabetes Education that includes group classes, one-on-one appointments and phone or video appointments, so we can meet you where you are at to help you learn about your diabetes.

November is National Diabetes Month, so this is the perfect time to raise awareness about diabetes and the importance of education to help persons with diabetes live their healthiest lives. The good news is that in many cases, diabetes complications can be delayed or prevented by adopting and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits.

• Meet with a Registered Dietitian. The number one

During National Diabetes Month, we recommend that you “Know your risk, know your response.”

• Partner with your Primary Care team for annual

If you do not have diabetes, learn your risk.

• Take the Prediabetes Risk Test to learn more about your risk by scanning the QR code below.

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question most people with diabetes ask is: “What should I eat?” It can be difficult to know where to go for accurate information, so a Registered Dietitian is your go-to for unbiased, individualized nutrition counseling and education.

screenings to prevent complications or detect them early.

Most importantly, know that you are not alone. Your healthcare team is here to support you in preventing or managing diabetes.

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Looking to promote your business this holiday season? Help businesses grow and increase online visibility through @bestdressedblonde influencer marketing! bestdressedblonde@gmail.com www.bestdressedblonde.com

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 2 n 19

Nick Burke F E AT U R E D A RT I S T

What most excites you about your work and the contribution you can make?

Performing live is by far the most exciting part of my work.

I love being able to play music for people and I always hope to provide some level of enjoyment through the songs I choose to play, the way I play them, or just chatting with people between songs.

Who was the most influential person to you (artistically speaking)?

Whether it’s Dave Grohl, Phil Collins, or Marcus Mumford, the most influential artist in my life is anyone who has a passion for drumming and singing and is able to express both in a creative way.

Tell us something that might surprise us about you.

I have had a stutter since I was in grade school. It’s something I still struggle with today, but when I play music (yes, even in front of people), it goes away.

What is one art rule you always follow?

When you make a mistake, make it confidently and keep the music going.

If you could invite four famous people to dinner, who would you choose?

Jack Johnson, Tom DeLonge, Stevie Nicks, and posthumously John Candy. All of them seem like they would be very easygoing, fun to be around, and interesting to talk to.

How do you want to be remembered?

I would be lucky to be remembered as a musician at all, to If you could replay one moment in your life, what be honest. If I could choose how I would be remembered, I would you choose? would hope that people remember me as a light-hearted and The night I met my wife, Jantina. She came to watch me fun entertainer. play a live show and it would be incredible to relive that moment knowing that it was the moment I met the love of What habits do you have that my life.

encourage creativity?

When I hear a new song that gets my attention, I have to listen to it 5-10 times in a row. Each time, I’ll listen to a different part of the song. Different instruments, melodies and harmonies, song structure, effects, etc. I always find it interesting to tear apart a song and find out what components go into making it so great, and what I can do to implement those components into what I do.

What would you tell your younger self?

Keep working at your craft! You have no idea what kinds of doors are going to open for you; all you have to do is be ready to go through them.

What’s your favorite piece of music or composer? Why? I’ve always been really drawn to music by Tom DeLonge.

Whether it’s Blink-182, Boxcar Racer, or Angels and Airwaves, I’ve always really admired his ability to take different paths and different genres to express himself. His ability to take simple concepts and turn them into fun, adventurous, and sometimes touching music is inspiring.

What are three things still left on your bucket list?

Play an original song and have the crowd sing with me; own a recording studio; and, believe it or not, visit all 30 MLB ballparks.

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What three words describe your music?

Rhythmic, diverse, and hopefully entertaining!

Where can one go to see you perform or to learn more about your work?

Anyone interested in learning more about me, watching a video, catching a live show or connecting with me can find me at nickburkemusic.com or at Nick Burke Music on Facebook and Instagram.

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Stroll through 8 1/2 acres of beautifully decorated displays while enjoying hot cocoa, coffee, and cookies!

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Do you like to write stories? We are searching for experienced freelance writers to interview and write cover articles, public interest pieces and community interest stories in the Sioux Falls, Sioux City and/or Black Hills areas.

If you have these qualities, we want to hear from you! * Writing articles based on editorial and formatting guidelines. * Communicating with the client to explicate assignment-related expectations.

• Maintaining originality in your work.

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We’d love to see: • Prior writing experience and/or references.

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RASE 2023 HOUSING MARKET STATISTICAL REPORTING

KRISTEN GULSON Chief Executive Officer

12-MONTH PERIOD SPANNING 10/2022 THROUGH 9/2023

-27.7%

+3.9%

+1.4%

Change in Closed Sales

Change in Inventory

Change in Median Sales Price

National sales of existing homes recently fell to a seven-month low, as surging borrowing costs, rising sales prices, and limited inventory continue to keep many would-be buyers out of the market. Borrowers have become increasingly sensitive to fluctuations in mortgage rates, which have remained above 7% since mid- August. With fewer buyers able to afford the costs of homeownership, existing-home sales declined 0.7% month-over-month and were down 15.3% year-over-year, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).

New Listings in the Sioux Falls region increased 2.2% to 610. Pending Sales were up 3.5% to 471. Inventory levels rose 3.9% to 1,491 units.

Prices continued to gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased 1.4% to $304,000. Days on Market was up 4.3% to 73 days. Buyers felt empowered as Months Supply of Homes for Sale was up 20.6% to 4.1 months.

Prices have continued to increase this fall despite softening home sales nationwide, as a lack of inventory has kept the market competitive for prospective buyers, sparking bidding wars and causing homes to sell for above asking price in some areas. Heading into September, there were only 1.1 million units available for sale, 0.9% fewer than a month ago and 14.1% fewer than the same period last year, according to NAR. As a result, the U.S. median existing-home sales price rose 3.9% year-over-year to $407,100, marking the third consecutive month that the median sales price topped $400,000.

+8.5%

+45.7%

-6.8%

Construction Status With Strongest Sales: New Construction

Price Range With the Strongest Sales: $800,001 to 900,000

Property Type With Strongest Sales: Condo-Townhouse Attached

Sales of new single-family homes decreased 8.7% month-over-month, to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 675,000 units, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the slowest pace since March. Higher mortgage interest rates are taking their toll on buyer demand, and a number of buyers are choosing to postpone their next home purchase until rates move lower. With sales softening, builder confidence also declined, falling five points to 45 in September, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). For the 12-month period spanning October 2022 through September 2023, Pending Sales in the Sioux Falls region were down 15.6% overall. The price range with the largest gain in sales was the $800K to $900K range, where they increased 45.7%.

0.0%

Change in New Listings

-23.6% Change in Closed Sales

0.0%

Change in Median Sales Price

The overall Median Sales Price was up 6.1% to $302,400. The construction type with the largest price gain was the New Construction segment, where prices increased 5.5% to $363,900. The price range that tended to sell the quickest was the $100K to $150K range at 60 days; the price range that tended to sell the slowest was the $700K to $800K range at 100 days.

Market-wide, inventory levels were up 3.9%. The construction type that gained the most inventory was the New Construction segment, where it increased 20.5%. That amounts to 4.0 months supply for Single- Family homes and 4.6 months supply for Condos.

2415 W. 57th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57108 rase-inc.org VOLUME 4 ISSUE 2 n 27

The Benefits of Selling Your Home in the Winter While it might not be as ideal as warmer months for reasons that have more to do with convenience and comfort, homes do sell in the winter and a case can be made that it is actually the best time to sell.

Some Houses Show Better in the Winter Some homes just have that warm cozy feel. Maybe it’s the style of decorating, the holiday season or perhaps the architecture, but these houses inspire buyers more during the winter months. Big fireplaces invite buyers to imagine sitting in front of them on a cold winter night.

While you’re embracing the winter months, it is important that you keep the sidewalks and driveway clear of both snow and ice. Navigating through cold slippery snow and ice can bring a bit of cold reality to the homebuyer.

Fewer Homes on the Sioux Falls Market Equals Less Competition There are fewer properties on the market in the winter. Most sellers prime their homes and get ready to sell in the spring market. Potential buyers have possibly 30-plus homes to choose from in warmer months, yet during the winter, they might have only five. Fewer options mean you have less competition. In fact, the inventory of homes falls almost 20% in some places during the fall-to-winter transition. It bumps up your chances of selling (and again, you’re more likely to get that price you want for your house).

Follow me on social media: @RealtorAprilM

@AMrealtor605

605-310-4463 april@bhhsmidwestrealty.com 28 n EMPIRE

Courtesy of ArticleCity.com

Tips for Winter Selling How can you make the most out of these winter benefits? Here are a few tips.

Place For Shoes: You don’t want potential buyers walking through your house with snowy shoes or boots. Place area rugs or mats for them to set their shoes on. It’s also a good idea to have disposable booties available, as well as a bench or chair, if there is room for one, so visitors can sit and easily change shoes or boots.

Make Your Home Warm and Inviting: The best way to show off your home is by making it cozy, warm and welcoming. Use technology like a smart thermostat to control your heating system and make sure your home’s temperature is set to an ideal spot so that your potential buyers warm up as soon as they step inside. You also need to make sure it’s not too hot. Too hot feels stifling and uncomfortable. Remember the buyers are most likely already dressed for outside. Just keep the inside comfortable - 65 degrees is a good place to start. You can show off your home’s energy efficiency in your marketing materials, not by cranking up the heat.

amp up the natural lighting in your home, making it more appealing for potential buyers.

Curb Appeal is still important during these colder months.

Your front door should get buyers excited about what’s behind it. A fresh coat of paint or stain goes a long way in creating a strong first impression. You can also spruce up the front porch area. Add new address numbers, maybe some new outdoor lighting fixtures or a new doormat.

Small changes like this can make a big difference.

Don’t Forget the Garage: Home sellers often use the garage for storage of their belongings after they declutter their homes. The colder winter months just make moving stuff into the garage easier than moving it to off-site storage. Don’t forget a potential homebuyer will look in the garage. If it’s bursting at the seams, it could keep you from getting the best price possible.

If you have a fireplace, turn it on. If you have “throw blankets” or pillows, put them on display. It will make your home a welcoming sight when coming in from the cold outdoors.

The Front Yard? Yes, it sounds counterintuitive but it does matter. While most areas won’t have green grass this time of year, they won’t be covered with snow either.

This usually leaves you with a nasty, yellowish-brown front yard. Do the best you can with it in terms of trimming, edging, and raking out leaves and other debris.

Play Up the Natural Light: Winter means darker days – literally. There are fewer daylight hours. Time your viewings and showings appropriately to get the best possible light. Don’t have them scheduled any later than 4 in the afternoon. By 4:30, the sun is down and out. You can also swap out your existing lights with brighter bulbs.

Another tip? Wash your windows before viewings. It can

Clean, Clean, Clean! Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t clean up and de-personalize your house. There’s no bigger turn-off than a messy house.

Putting away your personal items allows the potential buyer to imagine themselves living in the space.

YOU CAN SELL YOUR HOME IN THE WINTER! You have nothing to lose. And it could really improve your chances of selling your home. Yes, there are fewer potential buyers but you will be in a less competitive real estate market and should find more serious prospective buyers. Housing inventory levels should also be at seasonal lows which can only help. So why not? It could be the perfect time to sell, so contact April McCormick of Berkshire Hathaway to get started!

April MCCORMICK REALTOR®

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FROM OUR KITCHEN

to Yours...

Amanda’s Crumble Blueberry Muffins MUFFIN BATTER In mixer combine: • 5 eggs • 1 cup of sugar • 1 cup of brown sugar Mix 1 minute, next add: • 4 oz cream cheese • 1 cup yogurt (plain, vanilla, or blueberry) • 1/2 cup sour cream Mix 2 minutes or until creamy, next add: • 2 tbsp vanilla pudding mix • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 1/2 tsp of almond extract • 1 cup vegetable oil Mix 2 minutes, next add: • 1 can blueberry pie filling Mix 1 minute, next add: • 1 tsp salt • 6 tsp baking powder • 4 1/2 cups flour Mix 2 minutes - low speed

Life is Sweet in StoneyBrook Suites!

CRUMBLE TOPPING • 1 cup flour • 2/3 cup sugar • 1/3 cup brown sugar • 1 tsp cinnamon • 1/2 cup melted butter • Mix with fork until crumbly DIRECTIONS 1. Add liners to muffin tins and lightly spray with baking spray.

2. Fill tins 2/3 full.

3. Generously add crumble topping to each filled tin so topping covers most of batter.

4. Bake at 375 degrees for 18-20 minutes until the edges are golden brown.

5. Cool in tins for 10 minutes.

PUMPKIN BARS INGREDIENTS • 4 eggs • 1 cup oil • 2 cups white sugar • 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 2 cups flour • 1 tsp baking soda • 2 tsp cinnamon

FROSTING • 8 oz cream cheese (softened) • 1/2 cup butter (softened) • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar • 2 tsp vanilla • A little milk to make the frosting smooth to spread on bars

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Cream eggs, oil, white sugar, vanilla and pumpkin puree until well mixed. Then add flour, baking soda, and cinnamon.

Mix all together.

3. Spread into a greased large cookie sheet (11x14).

4. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

5. Cool completely and frost.

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If time spent with loved ones over the holidays sparks a conversation about 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.

Comfort & Peace ofMind are here.

OUR MISSION We are a full-service assisted living community, whose mission is, “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.”

AMENITIES • Coffee Shop • Theater • Salon • Courtyards • Walk-in Whirlpool Spa • Spacious suites all on one level • Centrally located meals and activities Dakota Dunes

Brookings 605-692-1013 Dakota Dunes 605-242-0013 Huron 605-352-0014 Sioux Falls 605-373-0013 Watertown 605-882-0013

SERVICES • Caring, trusted, 24-hour staff • Three homestyle meals per day • Personal housekeeping • Professional medication administration and laundry • On-site physical, restorative • Scheduled daily social and and cognitive therapy exercise activities • Personal pendant system • Wellness clinic • Assistance with activities

of daily living

BROOKINGS | DAKOTA DUNES | HURON | SIOUX FALLS | WATERTOWN

www.StoneyBrookSuites.com

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 2 n 31

BLACK FRIDAY SPECIALS BUY ONE ACCESSORY, GET ONE 50% OFF REVERSIBLE COATS ARE 40-60% OFF

LO CATED AT T H E BR ID G ES AT 57T H ST R EET 5005 S. WEST ER N AVE . # 1 40 SIO UX FAL LS, S D 57 1 0 8 (6 05) 335-6 021• EI LER SF U R S .CO M

NEVER PUT UP LIGHTS AGAIN!

Experienced Craftsmanship. Innovative Design.

Let’s Build Something Together.

712-568-6745

derocherbrothersconstruction.com dbc@derocherbrothersconstruction.com

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712-422-2244

We take pride in building customer relationships that last as long as our homes. If you have questions or are looking to build a home in the Sioux Falls, Sioux City, or surrounding areas, give us a call.

getlitus@gmail.com | getlitus.com

BUY TEN $5 GIF T CERTIFICATES AND GET TEN FREE! Get $100 WORTH of gift certificates for ONLY $50 (PURCHASE AT 41ST STREET LOCATION ONLY) Must present this coupon. The $100 for $50 offer expires 1/31/24. One $5 card valid per order or one $5 card per buffet. Cards are only valid at the 2717 West 41st Street, Sioux Falls location. EACH GIFT CERTIFICATE IS VALID FOR ONE YEAR FROM PURCHASE DATE. Gift Certificates do not earn Ranch Rewards points.

CALL FOR DELIVERY OR CARRYOUT

605-271-8646

2717 W 41st Street, Sioux Falls, SD 57105

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We are blessed and thankful for our customers who have become friends and our employees who have become family.

A legacy started in 1971 is now four generations of love and passion for turquoise.

@DakotaSkyStone

Deadwood & Wall, SD 605.390.5500 dakotaskystone@gmail.com dakotaskystone.com GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE! The perfect gift for the special people in your life!

GO TO DAKOTASKYSTONE.COM FOR DRAWING DETAILS DRAWING TAKES PLACE DEC. 29TH

This Beautiful

SQUASH BLOSSOM

ENTER HERE!

Best Dressed Holiday Guest By: Erica Wilcox

The holidays are here and so are this season's events and gatherings! Between Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's, planning ahead for the celebrations will have you prepared and ready to enjoy the occasion to the fullest!

First up on your preparedness list is your attire. Many events and gatherings will state the dress code while others may not. Typically, a wedding, cocktail party or formal gathering will lead you towards formal wear options we typically wear on special occasions. Think of a dressier top with added details, dressier skirt, pantsuit or a more formal dress

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option. For a “casual” dress code, think of options between the previously listed formal wear and your everyday jeans and T-shirt. This time of the year, think of textures that are seasonally appropriate that also add an element of class, like faux leather, suede or velvet.

A pair of faux leather pants, a blazer and suede heels would be a perfect causal ensemble that is a step above the everyday outfit and extremely versatile to wear again.

If you’re looking to wear what you already have in your closet, simply updating your accessories can elevate your look instantly. Easy outfit upgrades would be a seasonal/holiday handbag, statement shoes and dressier jewelry.

Chrome will be a big accent this year so consider adding a crossbody or shoe as that option. Ballet flats have also returned in options that include a strap, square toe or kitten heel. Adding a pair of fancier earrings or a necklace always elevates an outfit as well!

Consider a bolder makeup look for your holiday party. Doing a makeup look unlike your everyday look will appear dressier. A bolder lip and sparkling eyes are really all you’d need to achieve this!

This new Enchanted Neutrals seasonal eyeshadow palette has universally colored shades that will work for both everyday and glam styles. Check out Crunchi.com/ericalynn, to nab the palette!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and the free shopping app, LTK, to see my daily favorites and links to holiday outfits! @bestdressedblonde FOLLOW ME FOR MORE OUTFIT INSPIRATION!

@bestdressedblonde bestdressedblonde.com

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We are ready to help you.

Connect with us.

AREAS OF PRACTICE Estate Planning

Civil Litigation

Criminal Defense

Cyber Law

Business Law

Family Law

Fraud, Defamation, Harassment and Stalking (Civil/Criminal), Privacy and User License Agreements, Cyber Security Regulation and Compliance, Digital Asset Estate Planning, and Privacy Disputes.

Business Formation, Operations, Contracts, Financing, Securities and Insolvency

Divorce, Child Custody and visitation, Child Support, Paternity Actions, Protection orders, Guardianships of minors or adults, and Adoption

Property

Bankruptcy

ADR

Landlord-Tenant law, Zoning and Land regulations, Foreclosure, Construction, Title and Boundary disputes

Secured Transaction Recovery, Chapter 7, Chapter 12, and Chapter 13

Alternative Dispute Resolutions (Negotiation, Mediation, and Arbitration)

Trusts, Wills, Probate, & Digital Asset Estate Planning.

605-251-2275 j.nelson@lawofficeofjenniferrnelson.com 109 N. Main, Colman, SD 57017

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THE PLACE TO DINE grandfallscasinoresort.com 712.777.7777 1415 Grand Falls Blvd. | Larchwood, IA 51241

Bet with your head, not over it. Need help? Call 1-800-BETSOFF. VOLUME 4 ISSUE 2 n 39

DECREASE INJURY CLAIM COSTS

ONSITE SERVICE LINES

1

Physical Therapy/ Occupational Therapy

2 Post Offer Employment Testing 3 Work Conditioning

EXPERTS IN

4 Job Analyses

WORK COMP!

5 Ergonomic Assessments 6 Early Intervention Injury

These programs are significant because it allows us to be a resource to address your healthcare costs and overall culture of health.

Prevention Program

3410 South Western Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 605.271.9980 stollbergj@tristatenursing.com feskec@tristatenursing.com www.tsnpt.com

LOCALLY OWNED. ARTISAN. HANDCRAFTED. An awe-inspiring gathering spot for the Sioux Falls community.

Monday - Saturday

11:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Sunday

CLOSED

Featuring a menu reflecting “American Eclectic” cuisine, with a focus on innovative, artisan plates, as well as some local favorites and everyday classics.

2210 W. 69th Street • Sioux Falls, SD 57108 • (605) 271.1787 22tenkitchen.com

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Holiday Delight!

Nov

24 Parade of Lights

Nov Small Business

25 Saturday

dtsf.com Marketbeat Holiday Plaza

November - December

s all do w ’ t I nto w n

ngle All The Way J to a cure

By: Lauren Johnson | Photos By: TKColbert Photography The annual Sioux Falls Jingle Bell Run is coming back bigger and better than ever, as the Arthritis Foundation kicks off this year’s event on November 24, right before the downtown Parade of Lights!

Register as an individual or gather a team of friends, family and co-workers; wear your favorite holiday costume and run (or walk) as you help jingle all the way to a cure. If you can’t attend the event but still want to be part of the fun, virtual jinglers are welcome, too! Spread some holiday cheer while raising funds to support the 150,000 South Dakotans, 54 million adults and 300,000 children in the United States living with arthritis pain.

Lead organizer and volunteer for the event, Taylor Van Emmerick said, “I was diagnosed with arthritis when I was 9 years old. At the time, it was difficult for kids with families to see a pediatric rheumatologist. Families would have to drive back and forth for a day in order to get the diagnosis or medication they needed because it wasn’t available where they lived. With the work of the Arthritis Foundation, we now have two traveling pediatric rheumatologists and a camp for kids with juvenile arthritis. That’s where I learned about my disease and what I had. Access for kids is so important, and our goal is to help kids understand and manage their disease.”

Taylor wanted to give back to the foundation, so he began volunteering when he was a senior in high school. “When I first started in 2021, I had to complete a research project my senior year, and my focus was on pain management. I started digging more into my disease to find out what would help me when I went off to college,” he relayed. “Volunteering with the Arthritis Foundation allowed me to gain experience and network with amazing people. I got to talk to business leaders for sponsorships, and I got to see what’s really involved in creating events like this

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and how everything ties together to make it happen.”

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The Arthritis Foundation fights for people of all ages who suffer from chronic arthritis pain. Your registration fee and fundraising help support the fight to conquer arthritis, America’s number one cause of disability.

Come join the effort on November 24 at Fawick Park in Sioux Falls. The race starts at 5:30 p.m., strollers are welcome and the event is dog-friendly.

“We decided to bring the race back to that time before the parade,” Taylor says. “People like it, our constituents wanted it and folks can come to the 5K run or the 1.5-mile walk, and then immediately get even more festive at the Parade of Lights at 7:30 p.m. It’s a great opportunity to give back to a great cause and burn off that Thanksgiving feast from the day before.”

Register, donate and learn more on the Jingle Bell Run page online, Facebook event page or contact Lisa McLaughlin.

jbr.org/siouxfalls lmclaughlin@arthritis.org (651) 724-9487 Fawick Park 200 S. 2nd Ave. Sioux Falls, SD 57104

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BEST DRESSED BLONDE PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANE MONAHAN

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Superior Quality.

Targeted Distribution.

Cost-Effective Rates.

BEYOND MEDIA Superior Quality. Targeted Distribution. Cost-Effective Rates.

605.332.0421 | MICHELSCOM.COM

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IN MEMORIAM:

In late September

DARYL HAASE

of 2023, B-Squad Dog Rescue and the Haase family were hit with a tremendous loss.

Daryl Haase, husband of B-Squad Director, Mandi Haase, suffered a medical emergency and passed away.

The perception of B-Squad for many is that we are a large rescue organization. That simply isn’t the case. We have been lucky to have extremely talented graphic designers create our logo and website and have transport vehicles with donated marketing wraps. When it comes down to it, however, B-Squad was created by a small group of people who saw a need and wanted to make a difference, and we are still operated by a very small group of core volunteers.

We’d like to briefly talk about who Daryl was for B-Squad.

First, let’s just say... dogs were not Daryl’s thing. Mandi’s rescue work placed a great strain on their family and relationship at times. Mandi is the director of a foster-based volunteer organization, which means that when dogs needed last-minute placement - they landed at the Haase home when an emergency arose. Mandi often missed family functions, events and commitments, and could write for hours about the damage done to their home and yard by various fosters throughout the years.

Through everything, Daryl offered Mandi more grace than she ever imagined a person could.

Daryl was the main provider and supporter of their family. His hard work and support allowed Mandi to do the work that she has done for B-Squad. Even though dogs were not his thing, he was heavily involved in B-Squad activities. He drove countless emergency transports, attended events, made veterinary runs for supplies, sanitized kennels and vans after transports and was Mandi’s shoulder to cry on when rescue was too much. He had a calming energy and took a special interest in those dogs that were especially broken. You could often find him lying on the floor on his belly meeting a dog exactly where they were at, offering a gentle touch and a calm and loving voice letting them know they were going to be okay.

BSquadDogRescue.com info@BSquadDogRescue.com 46 n EMPIRE

Daryl’s passing leaves a void in our rescue organization, and we aren’t quite sure how things will look moving forward.

The only income for B-Squad comes from adoptions and private donations. It hurts our hearts to know that because of Mandi’s understandable absence, B-Squad is in a bit of a hole in veterinary care at the moment. Veterinary bills have been averaging about $5,000 per week. If you feel inclined to help, please scan the code to the right and make a donation.

God speed, Daryl. You will be missed.

Adopt Foster Donate Volunteer •••

Check out our Facebook for the

Dine & Donate Event happening at the Barrel House in December!

••• Donate here:

Donations can also be made at BSquadDogRescue.com /Donate

for your convenience

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 2 n 47

Your Family Deserves the Best.

Years of Comfort. Years of Savings.

605-332-0541 7405 E. Arrowhead Parkway, Sioux Falls, SD rogersplumbingandheating.com

“They were Health insurance genuinely concerned as it should be with my overall well-being Plans that give you comprehensive coverage at a monthly premium you can afford – now that’s caring for the whole you.

– not just my medical problems.” ~ Sanford Health Plan Member Member feedback from 2022 customer satisfaction survey.

Save more in 2024.

Barbara V., BSN, RN, CCM Sanford Health Plan care management director

Call (888) 496-8695 for a quote or visit sanfordhealthplan.com.

776-412-435 9/23

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!

Christmas Concert & Tree Lighting

e M a r s .c o m

FREE

6:00 PM – 7:00 PM Olson Cultural Events Center

t

New this !

Year

da

y, N

ove m b er 2 5

h • C

Ice Skating Rink

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Bamboo Village lot, 128 Central Ave NW Grab your skates or use some of ours and join us on the ice! Come early and sign up for a (30) minute session for only $5.00!

All this, and...

A first for 2023! Come see the live nativity featuring animals from 5:00pm – 8:00pm.

The Browns Concerts Elves Storytime Reindeer Roundup Santa’s Fun Run 5K/10K Christmas Crafts Cookie Decorating Pony Rides Petting Zoo Face Painting Christmas Tree Sales Dance Performances

At 7:00pm, they will be joined by Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus.

... and even more!

New this !

Year

Live Nativity

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM NW corner of Postal Playhouse

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Join us for the Annual Christmas Concert with The Browns and Tree Lighting of our 26’ tall Christmas tree.

Bring the family and join us for a festive time in Le Mars Iowa!

!

FREE

Santa & Mrs. Claus

8:30-11:00 AM at Habitué Coffeehouse, and 12:30-2:30 and 5:00-6:00 at Olson Cultural Events Center Pergola Come take your picture with Santa & Mrs Claus!

!

FREE

Roaming with Rudolph

11:00AM-12:00pm at Habitue Coffeehouse

12:30-1:30pm at the Library Pergola 2:30-5:00pm at the Olson Event Center Pergola Come take your picture and visit with Rudolph!

New this !

Year

Eating with the Elves!

8:00 AM – 11:00 AM Knights of Columbus Hall, 120 1st Ave NE Enjoy a hot breakfast buffet with some of Santa’s helper Elves! Ages 13 and up $13.00, Kids 4-12 $7.00 and under 3 are free - no registration required.

Open the Camera app and hold your smartphone so that the QR code appears in the viewfinder. Your phone should recognize the QR code and give you the option to go to

ChristmasInLeMars.com

to see the entire schedule of events.

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 2 n 51

INTIMATE AND EXCEPTIONAL DINING EXPERIENCE

Parker’s • 210 S. Main Avenue | Myrtle’s • 208 S. Main Avenue in historic Downtown Sioux Falls

Reserve your dining experiences by calling 605-275-7676 | Open Tuesdays - Saturdays

Myrtle’s Fur Vault & Bar is the original home of Frye’s Furs, built in the 1930s, and is located adjacent to beloved Parker’s Bistro. The bar’s name, Myrtle, is the owner’s grandmother and wife to Parker (Parker’s Bistro). The nod to Fur Vault & Bar speaks to the original building’s history from the ‘30s. Customers can come in through the front door of either building and the two are connected inside by a doorway.