Empire - December 2023

EMPIRE A

L I F E S T Y L E

M A G A Z I N E

Brandy Ann Fiala LI V I NG LI F E NOW PHOTOGR APHY B Y SHANE M ONAHAN

SIOUX FALLS Bridges at 57th

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$37,000 i n c a s h a n d fr e e p l ay !

The Johnny Holm Band starts at 9 PM Tickets just $25 Enjoy party favors and champagne toast at midnight Bet with your head, not over it. Need help? Call 1-800-BETSOFF.

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CONTRIBUTORS team of writers Andrea Van Essen, Lauren Johnson, Erica Wilcox, Trisha K. Gaudig and Stacey Kracht

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 Chris Berke chrisberke.com/about/ Chad Coppess chadsphoto.wixsite.com/dakotagraph

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

WWW.EMPIRELIFESTYLEMAGAZINE.COM PO Box 91606, Sioux Falls, SD 57109 | 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.

© Copyright 2023 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. Empire does not necessarily endorse or agree with content of articles or advertising presented.

Table of

16

CONTENTS

LIVING LIFE NOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6

Brandy Ann Fiala

GETTING IN THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

16

Community Spotlight

JODI WHITLOCK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

20

Featured Artist

LAST-MINUTE HOLIDAY GIFTS AND OUTFITS . . . . . . . . .

24

Best Dressed Blonde

24

30

HEALTH IMPACTS OF CHRONIC STRESS AND HOW TO MANAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

34

30

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

FORT SISSETON: FRONTIER CHRISTMAS. . . . . . . . . . . .

34

History

WELCOME HOME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

41

REALTOR® Association of the Sioux Empire, Inc.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

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42

Brandy Ann Fiala LI V I NG LI F E NOW

By: Andrea Van Essen | Photos By: Shane Monahan Photography

Brandy Ann Fiala is a doer.

It’s a trait that has carried her through a lifetime of challenging circumstances, both personal and professional.

Brandy, who recently took over ownership of the nearly 100-year-old Eilers Furs, is now one of the region’s only furriers: a retailer who sells, repairs and stores fur apparel.

It’s a career she says she couldn’t have anticipated, though she’s long been a fan of fashion and fur.

Eilers Furs was founded in Huron, SD in 1927, and Brandy is the second non-family owner in its history — taking the shop over from Leonard and Gail Iwinski, who took it over from the Eilers family in 1991.

“I never thought I’d be doing anything like this in my life,” she says of running a luxury business.

Life hasn’t exactly been easy for Brandy, and she certainly didn’t come from a wealthy background.

her sister passed away and a year later, her house burned down.

After marrying in 2012, her late sister’s 11-year-old niece and 14-year-old nephew moved in when Brandy’s eldest of her two sons was seven months old. Since then, she has changed jobs several times (including working for the governor’s office under Kristi Noem), gotten divorced and become a single mother.

In a way, it’s Brandy’s hard-earned understanding that life is precious that draws her to luxury items like fur.

Her first experience with fur was at about 20 years old when she moved to Sioux Falls. Having lived for several years in the southern part of the country, she says she wasn’t messing around when it came to cold weather.

“I was freezing here, and I needed something that would keep me warm. I knew there was a fur store in Sioux Falls, but I remember thinking I couldn’t afford anything,” she said.

Born in Mandan, ND, 80 miles northwest of Bismarck, Brandy grew up on her family’s farm and cattle ranch in Hazen, ND until age six. Around that time, her parents divorced, and her mother moved her and her triplet older sisters to Tulsa, OK, to attend seminary. Throughout her youth, Brandy bounced around the country with her mother’s ministry career, but after graduating from high school, she moved to Sioux Falls, where she felt closer to her family and roots.

“So, I went to eBay to get my first fur, a vintage mink, and I had it for years.”

She attended Colorado Technical College in Sioux Falls, earning a bachelor’s degree in business and marketing and then got a job working for the Dakota Lions eye and tissue bank. It was a role that felt personal, as her triplet sisters suffered from a variety of health problems, and two required kidney transplants.

“I’ve always been a shoes and coats girl — I had a zillion coats, all of my mom’s from the ’70s, my dad’s leathers, my sister’s coats, all these good old vintages.”

After some time though, one of her sisters developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and Brandy says she needed a change of scenery to give her a break. In 2010, she moved on to manage the corporate marketing for an HVAC company for several years, and during that time,

“I started redoing my fur collection through online shopping, but the quality just wasn’t as good,” she said.

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Then, she began collecting.

According to Brandy, “Once you go fur, you don’t go back.” She wears her furs everywhere, from shoveling the sidewalk to a fancy evening out, and says it’s the warmest thing you can wear.

But when her house burnt down, she lost everything.

Slowly, she had to begin rebuilding her collection.

It was then that she became acquainted with Eilers Furs, as she started bringing in her pieces that were worn

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 3 n 7

or damaged for repairs. She started shopping there instead of online, and one day, while getting her red fox coat repaired, she got into a long conversation with the owner, Leonard. The topic of his age came up, and Brandy asked about his plans for retirement or succession.

Between her personal experience with her sister’s sickness and death and her home burning down, to her professional experience at the eye and tissue bank, as well as working at a senior living community, Brandy knows all too well how fleeting life is.

“I believe in living life now because tomorrow is not promised. Wear your furs. Wear your expensive perfume. If you want a diamond, go buy it. That’s what I believe.”

But Leonard told her that he had no plans to retire, and if he were to die the next day, the store would die with him.

“I said, ‘Oh geez, calm down. I’ll do it.’ Famous last words.”

There was another older gentleman in the store that day who joined their conversation, and Brandy recalls him quipping, “There are three types of people in this world: the doers, the non-doers and the lucky; none of us in this room are really that lucky.”

“I BELIEVE IN LIVING LIFE NOW BECAUSE TOMORROW IS NOT PROMISED. WEAR YOUR FURS. WEAR YOUR EXPENSIVE PERFUME. IF YOU WANT A DIAMOND, GO BUY IT. THAT’S WHAT I BELIEVE.”

-Brandy AnnFiala

“He was right, I’m not lucky,” she said. “But I am a doer.”

She knew that Leonard hadn’t viewed her offer to take over the store as a serious proposition and that she had a lot to learn about the business. So, the next day she went out and put together what she says was the biggest, best gift basket you’ve ever seen. She included her resume and a card that read, “From one doer to another, I do hope to hear from you soon.”

She waited for 10 days, and finally, Leonard called. They signed a contract, and she spent the next 10 months training under him full-time. In January 2023, she officially took ownership of the store.

Now, a year later, she says running the business is beginning to feel real and normal. She loves introducing people to the magic of wearing fur and says the younger generations are really coming around to it.

“I think it’s about how natural it is — this is just my belief, but I think it’s the spirit of the animal that comes to life and mixes with your aura and energy, as well as your skin tones and your hair color. On the hanger, it’s just a coat, but when you put it on, it comes alive.”

She adds that there’s just something elusive about a gorgeous fur coat.

“You can’t just go anywhere and buy fur. It’s like wearing cubic zirconia your whole life and finally getting a diamond — you feel like you’ve arrived.”

And in many ways, Brandy has arrived.

“It’s been a struggle to get here to this dream,” she said.

“I didn’t have any help or support system going to school. I paid off all my student loans on my own by waitressing and working my way up to corporate jobs, and I think it’s very important to be inspired and self-motivated.”

When she isn’t working hard on her dreams, you can find Brandy spending time with her two kids, shopping for unique clothes and going out in Sioux Falls — always wearing her furs.

She describes herself as a modern-day socialite who loves a good happy hour, whether that’s at a dive bar like The Crow or Top Hat, or somewhere more high-end like Bin 201, Crawford’s or Myrtle’s Fur Vault — a fitting spot for a fur-sporting fashionista like herself.

5 Brandy Ann THINGS ABOUT

1 2 3 4 5

Brandy won the title Mrs. South Dakota in 2013.

Brandy and her sons, Kristoff and Cason keep busy with soccer, baseball and football activities

Brandy enjoys summer pool parties with her nephew Kyle and boys Kristoff and Cason

Brandy and her sons in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry on their family adventure, driving from Miami to Sioux Falls in the summer of 2021

Brandy cherishes her 20-year friendships and Pink Ladies dart team “Rabbit Holes Suck” with Jenny Arenas, Kirsten Hartman-Losby and Trisha Reynolds

of

Growing up, Brandy played the tuba, clarinet and violin.

In a family of six, Brandy, her mother and sister Shandy are left-handed, and Brandy is the only one with brown eyes; the rest have hazel.

Brandy loves old country music; she named her eldest son Kristofferson after Kris Kristofferson. In 2012, he was the only baby born in the U.S. with that name spelled with a K and two Fs. At age three, Brandy learned to ride a horse on her family farm in North Dakota.

Florence Henderson and Brandy hit it off at the 2013 Mrs. America pageant where Henderson hosted, “She was a riot, hilarious and classy at the same time.”

Brandy, Kristoff and Cason Fiala enjoy countryside lake life where they reside outside of Sioux Falls on Lake Vermillion

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Getting in the

Christmas pirit By: Lauren Johnson | Photography By: Chris Berke

For the third year, A Christmas Carol returns to The Premiere Playhouse in Sioux Falls, with new and returning cast members, updated production features and a complete holiday experience.

A Christmas Carol recounts the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, an elderly miser who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Future.

After their visits, Scrooge is transformed by the true meaning of Christmas into a kinder, gentler man. Even if you’ve seen the movie versions dozens of times, there’s nothing like a live performance.

“The beauty of this holiday tradition is brought to life by the people who are passionate about this story and the characters,” says Oliver Mayes, managing artistic director for The Premiere Playhouse.

The Premiere Playhouse (formerly known as the Sioux Empire Community Theatre) is a professionally staffed and community-based non-profit theatre organization that resides at the historic Orpheum Theater Center in downtown Sioux Falls. The theater was born in 2003 after a number of local theater enthusiasts banded together with the belief that local theater is vital to the fabric of the community. With more than 20 years of history as an organization, the Playhouse helps the community thrive by nurturing the artist in anyone and inspiring the arts in everyone throughout the year.

“What’s special about this holiday production each year is that we have a core number of folks who return in various roles, and we also have news folks stepping in,” Oliver says. “There’s always a different take or perspective when different people play the roles. These are performers who are willing to assimilate to whatever role to tell the story.”

This will be Director Lary B. Etten’s third and final year of directing the production.

“We’re excited for him to go out with a bang,” Oliver says. “We have an associate director who’s been helping to work with the new actors, finesse scene work and finalize Lary’s vision while Lary enhances 16 n EMPIRE

“It’s a story that I’ve always loved, and it’s gratifying to see it all unfold each year,” Tom says. “I love working with the people in the cast and crew. It’s always fun to see the new faces each year and see what new gifts, talents and energy they bring to the show. That’s what keeps it fresh; it just keeps getting better and better. Doing something as part of a community of people who enjoy this type of art, while collaborating to do all those little details and nuances to make things better, really adds a lot of sparkle to the performance.”

The Playhouse is focusing on making this theatrical tradition an immersive experience. “We want you to feel embraced by the holiday season when you enter the doors,” said Oliver. “It’s a visceral experience to get our guests in the mood, and that experience carries into the theater and becomes the full-blown production. We want to make what happens before the performance just as memorable as the production itself.”

Oliver credits the people and performers who are really dedicated to The Playhouse throughout the year. “We’re leaning into collaboration. It’s a community effort that is both for the community and by the community,” he says.

“It takes the people to make it happen, whether it’s the sponsors, volunteers, staff, performers and the variety of very dedicated people who make it special for our patrons.”

Showtimes are 7:00 p.m. on Dec 15-23, and 2:00 p.m. on Dec. 16, 17 and 23. Ticket information can be found on The Premiere Playhouse’s website.

THEPREMIEREPLAYHOUSE.COM (605) 360-4800

Clean beauty advocate &

Also in his third year with A Christmas Carol is Tom Roberts, who plays Scrooge.

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the special effects and overall pictures of the production. It’s wonderful to know that, as Lary prepares to step down, he’s fulfilling his goals for the production in tandem with Jesse Jensen, who’s been working with Lary to be informed about the traditions and able to take the helm next year.”

SHARING ALL THINGS FASHION, CLEAN BEAUTY, AND LIFESTYLE!

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

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Jodi Whitlock featured artist

WHAT MOST EXCITES YOU ABOUT YOUR WORK AND THE CONTRIBUTION YOU CAN MAKE? THIS YEAR, I HAD THE PRIVILEGE TO MAKE JEWISH GHOSTS FOR THE SIOUX CITY RAILROAD MUSEUM, A HOLOCAUST TRAIN CAR. IT’S EXCITING TO HAVE SOMETHING PLACED ON PERMANENT DISPLAY WITH HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE. WHO WAS THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON TO YOU (ARTISTICALLY SPEAKING)?

MY UNCLE GARY. HE WAS THE FIRST ARTIST I HAD IN MY LIFE. I GOT TO VIEW HIS ARTWORK ON DISPLAY AT MY GRANDMOTHER’S HOUSE WHILE I WAS A CHILD. HOW DO YOU WANT TO BE REMEMBERED? I WOULD LIKE TO BE REMEMBERED AS A KIND AND GIVING TEACHER, ARTIST AND CHRISTIAN WOMAN. WHAT HABITS DO YOU HAVE THAT ENCOURAGE CREATIVITY? I LOVE VIEWING AND SPENDING A LOT OF TIME WITH MUSIC AND NATURE, LISTENING TO THE PATTERNS IN BOTH OF THEM. WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF? I WOULD TELL MY YOUNGER SELF THAT I AM STRONG AND A BEAUTIFUL CHILD OF GOD AND THAT WILL NEVER CHANGE. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PIECE OF ART? WHY? MY FAVORITE PIECE OF ART WOULD HAVE TO BE FRANCIS WHICH I PAINTED IN 2007. IT WAS FROM A PHOTOGRAPH I TOOK OF THE JANITOR AT BRIAR CLIFF UNIVERSITY. I LOVED TALKING WITH HIM, AND HE WAS A VERY KIND MAN. WHAT ARE THREE THINGS STILL LEFT ON YOUR BUCKET LIST? I DON’T HAVE ONE. MY LIFE IS FREE OF SELF-DRIVEN GOALS. TELL US SOMETHING THAT MIGHT SURPRISE US ABOUT YOU. WHEN I FIRST BEGAN COLLEGE, I WANTED TO BE A NURSE OR A DOCTOR. WHAT IS ONE ART RULE YOU ALWAYS FOLLOW? DON’T FOLLOW ANY RULES. EXPERIMENT. IF YOU COULD INVITE FOUR FAMOUS PEOPLE TO DINNER, WHO WOULD YOU CHOOSE? THOM YORKE, NICK CAVE (THE MUSICIAN), KING DAVID AND CARAVAGGIO.

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IF YOU COULD REPLAY ONE MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE, WHAT WOULD YOU CHOOSE? WALKING IN MY CHILDHOOD ALLEY WITH MY GUINEA PIG BUBBLES. WHAT THREE WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR ART COLLECTION? ELECTRIC, PERSONAL AND THERAPEUTIC. WHERE CAN READERS VIEW YOUR WORK AND LEARN MORE? THE SIOUX CITY ART CENTER’S PERMANENT COLLECTION, THE SIOUX CITY RAILROAD MUSEUM HOLOCAUST TRAIN CAR, THE MORNINGSIDE UNIVERSITY EPPLEY OFFICE OR THE HALLWAYS AT WESTERN IOWA TECH.

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 3 n 21

MEMBERSHIP GIVES YOU

ALL THE WORLD ALL YEAR ROUND

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Great Plains Zoo: 805 S. Kiwanis Ave. Sioux Falls, SD 57104 Butterfly House & Aquarium: 4320 S. Oxbow Ave. Sioux Falls, SD 57106

LA ST-MINUTE

Holiday Gifts AND Outfits By: Erica Wilcox

The holidays come at the same time each year, yet it still seems to sneak up on us! The hustle and bustle is real and before you know it, it’s December and Christmas is nearly here. Because of this, I wanted to create a guide to help you cross off those last gift items on your list as well as ensure you’re dressed for the occasion.

When it comes to last-minute gifts, we know that local, in-store shopping will be your best bet for finding that perfect gift. If you’re like me, gift-giving doesn’t come the easiest, but I still want a meaningful, practical gift. Some questions you can ask yourself to spark some gift ideas would be: what do they do in their free time?

Have they mentioned something they’ve always liked to try, like a massage, workout class or craft?

Is there a pain point they’ve been mentioning lately? Some ideas for these questions could be new running shoes or a yoga mat, a one-hour massage or craft/ cooking class or a paid handyman service or oil change service.

Often, we think of the typical gift items immediately, but it’s those problem-solving or experience gifts that could make the biggest difference. Keep in mind the holiday cutoff dates for any items being

shipped. Every carrier is different but a good rule of thumb is two days before the expected departure date. Always check for pick up in-store if that retailer is near you for the fastest option.

As for last-minute holiday dressing, the goal here is to use what you already own. Chances are, you know the pieces in your wardrobe that you consider dressier or eyeshadows and lipsticks that are bolder than the everyday look. In my closet, I always have that one sweater, that little black dress or that statement bag that instantly dresses up a look.

Maybe it’s a pair of velvet heels or a shimmery top. Start with the dressy item and build your outfit around that. Think of pairing said item with more winter-specific textures like faux leather, velvet, satin or sequin.

The fabric itself will elevate the look more than the actual piece itself.

A good example of this is a pair of faux leather joggers that are instantly elevated because they’re faux leather but also with a dressier shoe option. Also, try for more of a glam eye look. Think bolder/deeper colors on the lid and shimmers in the inner corners and on the brow bone. This Enchanted Palette is my favorite and can be nabbed by scanning the code!

Scan me 24 n EMPIRE

Born and raised in Sioux Falls, SD, I’ve been obsessed with fashion since I could dress myself. I was one of those kids who dressed up every day for school, no sweatpants here! My first taste of real fashion was my first retail job at 15. Working in fashion and living it through my everyday outfits, I noticed that everyone would always ask me about my outfits! I’d often get personal shopping requests or asked for fashion advice.

My passion kept growing to the point where I knew this was what I wanted to further my education in. I went on to get my bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising with a minor in business at South Dakota State University. After completing an internship and study trip, I knew that this was my calling, but I was not sure where to go with it.

After doing some corporate buying and retail management, I was grateful for the experiences but needed more.

After years and many individualstelling me to start a blog, I finally did.

Best Dressed Blonde was born… an everyday fashion, clean beauty and lifestyle brand. Sharing through my personal website, Instagram and other fashion platforms is the perfect way to express and showcase my passions!

On Best Dressed Blonde, you’ll find me sharing daily deals and sales, makeup tutorials, try-ons and a little bit of everyday life! My passion has also grown into my clean beauty business with Crunchi where I help women detox their skincare and makeup with truly high-performing and clean products.

FOLLOW ME FOR MORE OUTFIT INSPIRATION!

@bestdressedblonde bestdressedblonde.com

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and the free shopping app, LTK, to see my gift guides for everyone on your list! @bestdressedblonde VOLUME 4 ISSUE 3 n 25

Happy Holidays from the

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Nate

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Sara

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Lavina

Supervisor II

WellsCareers.com Is an EEO/AA Employer. M/F/Vet/Disabled ©2023 Wells Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved.

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 3 n 27

“Maybe Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store.

Maybe Christmas…perhaps… means a little bit more!”

– Dr. Seuss

Give the gift of hope, comfort and joy this holiday season by extending a paw to dogs who have been neglected, abused or abandoned. Your contribution can provide shelter, medical care and a second chance for dogs that need it most. Make spirits brighter by donating your time or funds so every dog has a warm and loving home for the holidays!

BSquadDogRescue.com info@BSquadDogRescue.com 28 n EMPIRE

Adopt Foster Donate Volunteer •••

Check out our Facebook for the

Dine & Donate Event happening at the Barrel House December 18th!

••• Donate here:

Donations can also be made at BSquadDogRescue.com /Donate

for your convenience

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605.332.0421 | MICHELSCOM.COM VOLUME 4 ISSUE 3 n 29

HEALTH IMPACTS OF CHRONIC STRESS

and How to Manage By: Trisha K. Gaudig, PhD, LP

Chronic stress can take a severe toll on both physical and mental health.

Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to understand and manage chronic stress. Below are common effects of chronic stress on health and skills to combat stress.

The Effects of Chronic Stress 1. Mental Health: Prolonged stress can lead to anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. It can also exacerbate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms.

2. Physical Health: Chronic stress is linked to various health issues, including heart disease, high blood pressure and weakened immune function.

3. Digestive Problems: Stress can lead to gastrointestinal problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and digestive discomfort.

4. Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep are common consequences of chronic stress.

Effective Stress Management 1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help individuals reduce stress and enhance emotional well-being.

2. Counseling and Therapy: Professional support from therapists, psychologists or counselors can provide effective coping strategies.

3. Exercise and Physical Activity: Regular physical activity helps release endorphins, improves mood and reduces stress.

4. Social Support: Building a strong support network can provide a buffer against stress.

5. Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation and biofeedback can help manage stress.

6. Community Resources: The 211 Helpline Center offers information on various community resources to help individuals deal with stress. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is also available for free and confidential emotional support and crisis counseling, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 9-8-8 (press 1 after the prompt if you are a Veteran).

7. Self-Care: Practicing self-care through hobbies, relaxation and taking time for oneself is essential.

Chronic stress can significantly impact health, but the right tools and support can lead to living a healthier, more balanced life.

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Other Ways to Cope

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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!

Please send your resume and link to your portfolio to vanessa@michelscom.com. www.michelscom.com

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FORT SISSETON Frontier Christmas By: Stacey Kracht | Photos By: Chad Coppess with South Dakota Tourism

Built on Coteau des Prairies in 1864, Fort Sisseton is the only historic park in the state of South Dakota (and has been since 1959). The property also has the oldest residence in the state and is known for its ghost sightings.

Located near Lake City in northeastern South Dakota, Fort Sisseton has always drawn people. Originally known as Fort Wadsworth, Fort Sisseton underwent a name change to become Fort Sisseton on August 29, 1876. This renaming was necessitated by the existence of another Fort Wadsworth in New York and as a gesture of respect and acknowledgment for the Sisseton band of Sioux who offered their services as scouts to the fort. After it closed as a military fort in 1889, it became a cattle ranch. In the 1920s, it was home to a Chicago hunting club and a destination for famous people including William Hamm, owner of Hamm’s Brewery; Al Capone; Clark Gable; and William D. Boyce, owner of the Chicago Tribune and founder of the Boy Scouts of America.

Many visited Fort Sisseton in the Roaring Twenties to hunt, fish, boat and attend parties.

The fascination of Fort Sisseton lives on today as a 35-acre state park with 14 of its original buildings still standing.

Christmas during the 1860s at a military fort was simple, but those rich traditions are reflected at Fort Sisseton’s annual Frontier Christmas on December 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., where the holidays and history come together!

During Frontier Christmas, the Fort is decorated with shrub brush trees,

which were used as Christmas trees during that time. Gifts were placed inside the tree as décor rather than under the tree, and real candles on the tree provided lighting. The women and children made the candles by hand, smashing berries to add color.

Candles on Christmas trees are lit twice daily at Frontier Christmas. Trees are decorated with homemade ornaments that resemble gifts commonly given to kids, like fur mittens or rag dolls made from an old dress. You can also string popcorn garland to wrap around the tree. Get into the Christmas spirit by making a candle or enjoy a horse-drawn, jingle-belling sleigh ride!

Because oysters were very affordable at the time and a goose could be ordered and paid for throughout the year to the commissary sergeant, oyster stew or cooked goose were usual Christmas meals. Homemade breads and roasted chestnuts were also common and are represented at Frontier Christmas.

Roasting chestnuts over the fire, baking bread in the 1864 U.S. Army wood-burning stove and making homemade butter or buttermilk are all activities offered at Frontier Christmas!

There is something special for everyone at Fort Sisseton’s Frontier Christmas celebration including crafts, caroling and, new this year, a snow sculpting contest.

Volunteers garbed as Civil War soldiers and Old Father Christmas will also be present. Experience history by touring through the 14 original buildings like the Commanding Officer’s house or doctor’s office to see re-enactors portraying 19th-century Fort life,

including blacksmithing and weaving, which park manager Ali Tonsfeldt says brings new meaning to Christmas. The boardwalk and beautiful landscape by the lake also invite you to explore.

“My favorite part of Frontier Christmas is watching people get into the holiday spirit. It can sometimes be a stressful time of year and we can get so caught up in it that we forget what the true meaning of Christmas is,” Tonsfeldt expressed. “This event brings back the simplicity and true spirit of the season. For the community, this is the beginning of the Christmas season, bringing everyone back to a simpler time with smiles and laughter.

Also, the smell of baking homemade bread is one of the best things ever and it tastes incredible!”

Keeping with the Christmas spirit, there will be a food pantry drop-off site for non-perishable foods and a mailbox to drop off letters to Santa, law enforcement, first responders and military personnel.

There is no cost to participate but a park entrance license is required and can be purchased at the park.

Follow the Frontier Christmas Facebook event page to learn more.

After the snow melts, make a trip north for the annual Fort Sisseton Historical Festival on the first weekend in June, which draws thousands of visitors every year. The third Saturday of September is the Fort’s annual Harvest Festival, where you can witness the harvest of the Fort garden that was planted in the summer – both done with horses! And if you’re looking for some local haunts, join the annual evening lantern tour held in the fall.

Visit the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks website or follow Fort Sisseton Historic State Park on Facebook for more information including numerous other events held throughout the year that will take you back in time!

11907 434TH AVE., LAKE CITY, SD 57247 GFP.SD.GOV/PARKS (605) 910-4465

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VOLUME 4 ISSUE 3 n 37

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I hadn’t intended to go anywhere but stay in my apartment. My son and his wife felt that I needed to be in assisted living. I kind of resented it at first when they suggested that I go. When I took a tour, I couldn’t believe everything they had. Everything was so perfect. I don’t know if anything else could ever compete with what they are doing here. It’s been more excellent than I expected.

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VOLUME 4 ISSUE 3 n 39

RASE 2023 HOUSING MARKET STATISTICAL REPORTING 12-MONTH PERIOD SPANNING 11/2022 THROUGH 10/2023

-11.9%

+3.9%

+5.2%

Change in Closed Sales

Change in Inventory

Change in Median Sales Price

U.S. sales of existing homes recently fell to a 13-year low, dropping 2.0% month over-month and 15.4% year-over-year as of last measure, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), as surging interest rates and elevated sales prices continue to make homeownership unaffordable for many prospective buyers. Purchase activity is down significantly compared to this time last year, but rising interest rates are also keeping many current homeowners from selling, causing inventory to remain at historically low levels nationwide.

New Listings in the Sioux Falls region increased 16.2% to 604. Pending Sales were up 17.2% to 477. Inventory levels rose 3.9% to 1,435 units.

Prices continued to gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased 5.2% to $305,000. Days on Market was up 15.6% to 74 days. Buyers felt empowered as Months Supply of Homes for Sale was up 21.2% to 4.0 months.

+48.9%

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

+14.0%

-3.7%

Construction Status With Strongest Sales: New Construction

Property Type With Strongest Sales: Condo-Townhouse Attached

Total housing inventory going into October was at 1.13 million units, up 2.7% from the previous month but down 8.1% compared to the same time last year, for a 3.4 months’ supply at the current sales pace, according to NAR. The shortage of homes for sale is making it harder for buyers to find a home to purchase while at the same time pushing sales prices higher nationwide, with the median existing home sales price rising 2.8% annually to $394,300, the third consecutive month of year-over-year price increases.

U.S. sales of new residential homes continue to soar, rising 12.3% from the previous month to an annual rate of 759,000, according to the Census Bureau, with sales up 33.9% compared to the same period last year. The latest reading surpassed economists’ expectations for the month and marks the highest level of new-home sales since February 2022, as homebuilders continue to benefit from limited existing-home inventory, which remains at historically low levels nationwide. For the 12-month period spanning November 2022 through October 2023, Pending Sales in the Sioux Falls region were down 14.3% overall. The price range with the largest gain in sales was the $800K to $900K range, where they increased 48.9%.

+18.8% Change in New Listings

-11.9% Change in Closed Sales

+6.3% Change in Median Sales Price

The overall Median Sales Price was up 5.9% to $304,900. The construction type with the largest price gain was the New Construction segment, where prices increased 5.7% to $368,583. The price range that tended to sell the quickest was the $100K to $150K range at 61 days; the price range that tended to sell the slowest was the $700K to $800K range at 101 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 10.7%. That amounts to 3.9 months supply for Single-Family homes and 4.6 months supply for Condos.

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Home for the Holidays

The holiday season has arrived, and there's nothing quite like hosting festivities in your new home. To ensure a warm and welcoming atmosphere for your guests, a bit of preparation goes a long way. From festive decorations to essential repairs and cleaning, here's your complete guide to getting your new abode holiday-ready.

Sparkling Clean Before you dive into decorating, start with a thorough cleaning. Dust off surfaces, vacuum carpets and pay special attention to commonly overlooked areas.

A clean slate sets the stage for a beautiful holiday transformation.

Deck the Halls Embrace the opportunity to infuse your new home with festive charm. Begin by choosing a theme or color palette that complements your space. Adorn your living areas with personalized touches, such as wreaths, garlands and twinkling lights. For smaller spaces, focus on key areas like the entryway and staircase railing to make a significant impact.

Tackle Essential Repairs Check for any outstanding repairs that may have been overlooked during the move.

Attend to issues such as leaky faucets, loose cabinet handles or squeaky doors. A well-maintained home not only looks better but also ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your guests.

Create a Cozy Ambiance Transform your home into a cozy holiday haven by creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Swap out harsh bulbs for softer ones, strategically place candles to add a cozy glow and ensure the fireplace is glowing bright. Incorporate seasonal scents, such as cinnamon or pine or even Christmas cookies, to evoke a sense of comfort and welcome your guests with a festive atmosphere that delights the senses.

You can even have Christmas music softly playing in the background.

Organize Guest Spaces You may need to create extra space for guests to sit or stand comfortably once they arrive, including meals and snack areas.

Arrange furniture to maximize seating, and if space allows, consider adding cozy corners with cushions or floor seating. You can also ensure a warm and safe welcome by shoveling snow and adding salt to driveways and walkways. Plan ahead for the influx of coats and shoes by designating an area near the entrance for extra storage, whether it’s putting down extra rugs for

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wet shoes, clearing coat racks or even designating a room to store extra winter attire and other items. If you have guests staying over, ensure their accommodations are comfortable and welcoming.

Fresh linens, extra blankets and thoughtful touches like a small holiday-themed basket with toiletries can make a significant difference in their experience.

Time for a Festive Front Door Make a memorable first impression by decorating your front door area. A wreath or garland, twinkling lights and perhaps a holiday welcome mat can instantly convey a sense of warmth and hospitality.

Personalized Touches Infuse your new home with personal touches that reflect your style and create a sense of belonging.

Display your favorite family photos, sentimental decorations or cherished holiday heirlooms that tell your unique story.

By taking the time to clean, repair and thoughtfully decorate your new home, you set the stage for a holiday gathering that will leave a lasting impression.

As you immerse yourself in the joy of the season, remember that the heart of any holiday celebration is the love and warmth shared within the walls of your new home. Wishing you a festive and joyous holiday season!

April MCCORMICK REALTOR®

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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.

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