When you enroll in one of Mitchell Tech’s more than 35 high-demand, high-tech programs, you will experience the best technical education available.
How do we know that Mitchell Tech may be your best choice?
• #1 Best Community College in S.D.
• Many Dual Credit Options Available According to Niche
• Numerous Program Accreditations
• Regionally Unique Programs
• 99% Job Placement*
• The Newest Campus in the Region
• Military Friendly School Since 2010
The bottom line . . . if you want to be the best, you have to work hard, learn by doing and put your skills to work in the real world.
Our mission is to prepare you for a successful, skilled career. Come and visit or check us out online and you will find out how you can Be The Best at Mitchell Technical College.
Dr. Steven Powell, MD, is a man who likes to know how things work. This curiosity has served him well as a renowned oncology and hematology physician and researcher at Sanford Health, where his ability to understand complex systems is second to none. As a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and lead researcher on several clinical trials, Dr. Powell searches for answers to some of the most complicated questions in cancer research. His highly regarded work has made international headlines and even earned recognition in Oprah’s O Magazine.
You might expect this academic and administrative medical powerhouse to be a transplant from one of the coasts, but Dr. Powell represents something far more valuable: homegrown talent and a remarkable return on investment for South Dakota.
It all started with a kid named Steve.
Growing up in Vermillion, South Dakota, Steve Powell always excelled at math and science, driven by an insatiable need to understand why things are the way they are. As high school graduation approached, he began mapping out his future, initially planning to attend the University of South Dakota in his hometown and major in biology.
However, fate intervened through an ACT job compatibility assessment. Combined with encouragement from his biology teacher, this test pointed Steve toward biomedical engineering—a field that would perfectly merge his analytical mind with his growing interest in helping others.
The challenge was finding the right program. In 1998, accredited undergraduate biomedical engineering programs were scarce, with most concentrated on the expensive East Coast, far beyond his family’s means. Fortunately, he discovered
| Photos By: Kate Jones Studios
Arizona State University offered exactly what he needed, and it was just an hour from his aunt and uncle.
After a campus visit with his parents, the decision was clear. “A campus with palm trees for a kid from South Dakota? Well, yeah,” Dr. Powell quips about the influence that dramatic landscape change had on his choice.
College life meant work-study for Steve, and his biomedical engineering focus naturally led him to the Cancer Research Institute on campus. There, he found himself in the ground-scale mass extraction lab, pumping chemicals into barrels for distillation, helping chemists isolate compounds for cancer drug research and development.
But it was his weekend volunteer work that changed everything. Playing cards, removing lunch trays, and simply visiting with patients in the oncology ward opened Steve’s eyes to the human side of the science he was studying. The laboratory work showed him the mechanics of cancer research; the patient interactions revealed its profound purpose.
Just before his junior year, a lab coworker suggested he consider medical school. After wrestling with self-doubt about whether he was “smart enough,” Steve applied to USD Medical School and was accepted. It was there he met Meredith, who was studying psychiatry, and his life’s trajectory crystallized.
Following graduation and three years of residency at the University of Minnesota, Steve became Dr. Steven Powell, MD—the first in his family to earn a four-year degree. His achievement represented not just personal success, but the culmination of support from incredible lab mentors, professors, and the unwavering example of his hard-working parents.
The Powell family initially put down roots in Minneapolis, where they welcomed two children, Robert and Eleanor. Life was settling into a comfortable rhythm when an unexpected phone call changed everything. The Vice President of Sanford Health reached out with an opportunity that perfectly aligned with Dr. Powell’s dual passions: practicing medicine while advancing cancer treatment through research.
In 2013, the family moved back to Sioux Falls, where both doctors found fulfilling careers and welcomed their third child, Rollin. The return to South Dakota brought them closer to extended family—a benefit that has proven invaluable in raising three active children.
“It’s a lot of ‘triage and prioritize,’” Dr. Powell explains about balancing parenting with his demanding career, “but you try to get things to work; having that support from family is definitely helpful!”
Dr. Powell approaches his personal interests with the same methodical intensity he brings to cancer research. What began as a simple home brewing kit—a birthday gift from his wife in 2007—has evolved into what he calls “an obsession.” His basement now houses a virtual laboratory where he counts yeast under microscopes, uses refractometers to measure sugar levels, and tests pH to achieve brewing perfection.
This five-friend brewing operation has produced beers that have earned regional recognition and national merit in competitions, though Dr. Powell has no commercial ambitions. For him, the joy lies in mastering the science.
The same precision defines his approach to cooking. His specialty? Homemade tortillas, but not the simple kind. For the family’s tamale-making
Photos top to bottom: At a Blacksmith in Ceske Krumlov, Czech Republic; Pilsner Urquell Brewery in Pilsen, Czech Republic; Steven and his wife on the west coast of Ireland
Christmas tradition, Dr. Powell nixtamalizes corn and uses a mechanical stone grinder to prepare tortillas from scratch. Each family member manages a station, but his requires the most complex preparation.
Travel represents another area where Dr. Powell applies thoughtful planning to maximize experience. Though he didn’t take his first international trip until age 34, traveling with his family has become a priority that offers something his scientific work cannot: diverse human perspectives.
“It’s a good way to learn how the world works outside of here,” he reflects. “When we go to places, we’ll just be
hanging out, talking to people from all over, and hearing what they think about things; it’s interesting.”
His children might find his “intense”approach to cooking, brewing, and travel planning amusing, but Dr. Powell sees it as modeling the lesson his parents taught him: do everything to the best of your ability.
When asked about his vision for the next decade, Dr. Powell remains characteristically balanced between professional and personal aspirations. Professionally, his focus extends beyond personal achievement: “I want to see an opportunity for growth, and that’s not necessarily
Photos left to right: Steven at a pub near Glencoe, Scotland; Loch Ness, Scotland; Steven in the cellars beneath Pilsner, Urquell; at a seaside pub in Kinsale, Ireland
always me. I see an opportunity to grow others, to help people develop their programs, get people excited, and show interest in the whole program.”
Personally, he plans to make every moment count, might restart guitar lessons, and intends to learn a new language—each goal approached, no doubt, with his signature thoroughness.
From small-town “Steve” to renowned “Dr. Steven Powell,”his journey represents an immeasurable return on investment for South Dakota He embodies the potential that exists when curiosity meets opportunity, when talent finds support, and when someone with the drive to understand how things work decides to make them work better.
And knowing Dr. Powell’s methodical approach to life, we can be confident he’s already figured out exactly how to make his next chapter work—and will undoubtedly share those insights with the world.
Photos top to bottom: Steven overlooking Brugge, Belgium; Breakfast with Steven’s wife Meredith in Edinburgh Scotland; Steven overlooking Camelback Mountain in Phoenix
Downtown Sioux Falls
Summer Art & Wine Walk
Date: Friday, August 1, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Street Closure: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Downtown, Sioux Falls
Admission: Free to attend; wine sampling punch cards available for purchase
Event Description:
Celebrate the warmth of summer with a sip and stroll through the vibrant streets of Downtown Sioux Falls during the Summer Art & Wine Walk on August 1. Explore a curated collection of local art, connect with talented creators, and sample fine wines at participating downtown venues.
In partnership with Architecture Inc, Phillips Avenue between 10th and 11th Streets will be closed to traffic and transformed into a walkable art corridor—enhancing the experience with live art, music, and a safe, community-focused atmosphere.
Wine Sampling:
Purchase a punch card to enjoy a selection of wines at various stops throughout downtown. Each venue offers a unique tasting experience, making it the perfect way to discover new favorites as you explore local galleries, shops, and studios.
Event Highlights:
- Live Art Demonstrations – Watch creativity in action with artists working on-site
- Street Performances – Enjoy live music and entertainment throughout the evening
- Downtown Shopping & Dining – Support local businesses with special offers and extended hours
Know Before You Go:
Wine sampling is 21+
Rain or shine event – dress for the weather!
Parking available throughout downtown; consider biking, walking, or ride-share options
Whether you’re a longtime art lover or just looking for a unique summer evening out, the Summer Art & Wine Walk is a can’t-miss celebration of creativity, community, and culture in Downtown Sioux Falls.
At Lake Area Technical College (LATC), the Medical Lab Technician program is more than just a stepping stone—it’s a launchpad for compassionate professionals ready to make a difference. With rigorous training, hands-on learning, and expert mentorship, students graduate prepared to step confidently into fast-paced medical environments across the region.
For graduates like Sarah Jensen, the journey through LATC’s program was transformative. “The program gave me real-life experience that made me feel confident walking into my first job,” she shares. “The instructors truly cared about us—not just as students, but as future healthcare workers.”
That personalized approach to education is what sets LATC apart. Program Director Kelsi Houge, MS, MLS (ASCP), emphasizes the balance of technical knowledge and human connection that defines the curriculum.
“Our program isn’t just about memorizing lab values or mastering phlebotomy techniques,” Kelsi explains. “It’s about developing critical thinkers who are calm under pressure and genuinely care for their patients.”
The Medical Lab Technician program is offered in both an on-campus and an online hybrid format, designed for students who are eager to enter the workforce quickly and with impact. The on-campus option is a two-year program, while the online hybrid option typically takes approximately three years to complete. In addition, graduates from both tracks earn an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree.
In each track, students learn vital skills such as drawing blood, performing diagnostic tests, analyzing lab samples, and maintaining sterile conditions—all essential functions in hospitals, clinics, and labs.
“From the very beginning, students are exposed to real-world settings,” Kelsi notes. “We work closely with our healthcare partners in the community to ensure students complete clinical rotations where they can apply what they’ve learned in class.”
This blend of classroom instruction and clinical experience creates well-rounded graduates, capable of jumping into a variety of medical environments. According to Kelsi, LATC’s commitment to hands-on learning is central to the program’s success.
“Our students are not just shadowing—they’re actively participating. That makes a huge difference in building both skill and confidence,” Kelsi adds.
In Sarah’s experience, the clinical rotations were a turning point. “That’s when it all came together for me. I could finally see how everything I learned in class applied in a real hospital setting. It was nerve-wracking at first, but also incredibly rewarding.”
Another key feature of the LATC experience is the supportive faculty and small class sizes, which allow for close mentorship and guidance.
“We get to know each student individually,” Kelsi explains. “That lets us tailor support to their learning style, help
By: Sarah Grassel
them through challenges, and celebrate their growth.”
Graduates of the program leave with a degree and a clear pathway into the workforce, often stepping directly into roles in labs, clinics, and hospitals. Using graduation and retention rates based on the number of students in the final half of the MLT program from data over the last three years, results show a 100 percent placement rate after graduation.
LATC provides a strong foundation for students who wish to continue their education in healthcare fields.
“Our goal is to provide a strong starting point,” says Kelsi. “Some of our students stay in the medical technology field long term, and others use this as a stepping stone into even more specialized roles. Either way, they leave here with skills, experience, and confidence.”
As for Sarah, she now works at a regional hospital and says she thinks about her instructors often. “They prepared me not just with the knowledge, but with the mindset of being a professional in healthcare. I’m proud to be a medical technologist—and proud to be a graduate of LATC.”
Whether students are just starting out or shifting careers, LATC’s Medical Lab Technician program offers a direct path into a field that’s as challenging as it is rewarding. With expert guidance, a hands-on curriculum, and a heart for service, graduates don’t just enter the workforce—they step into purpose.
Earning a phlebotomy certificate can be a valuable asset for students interested in entering or advancing in the healthcare field. Added last year, Kelsi says the certificate can be a beneficial add-on for students.
“All of our students are eligible to sit for a national phlebotomy certification exam as part of their program completion,” says Kelsi Houge. “This gives them a competitive edge when applying for jobs and can open doors in laboratory settings.”
Phlebotomy—the process of drawing blood for tests, transfusions, donations, or research—is a high-demand skill in today’s healthcare landscape. Earning this certification not only boosts a graduate’s résumé but also adds to their confidence and versatility in clinical environments.
“It’s one more way we help students become workforceready,” Kelsi continues. “They don’t just leave here with knowledge—they leave with credentials that matter.”
NICK'S HAMBURGER SHOP
- A BROOKINGS INSTITUTION SINCE 1929 -
By: Teresa Mentzer
Nick’s Hamburger Shop has become legendary far beyond Brookings, South Dakota, attracting ESPN sports announcers, prominent statesmen, and international travelers. “Every day I meet someone in the shop from out of town, another state, or even another country who has come in upon a recommendation to try our burgers,”says shop owner Todd Fergen. Yet beneath this national recognition lies the unwavering support of friends and neighbors who have made Nick’s their community gathering place for nearly a century.
When Harold and Gladys Niklason opened their doors in 1929, serving Dakota beef burgers for just a nickel, they faced immediate challenges. The stock market crashed within months, ushering in the Great Depression. While countless businesses failed during the 1930s, Nick’s not only survived but became a beacon of hope.
The original location on Main Avenue and Fifth Street offered affordable sustenance when unemployment reached 25% nationwide. The nickel burger represented both luxury and accessibility—a hot, satisfying meal that working families could still afford. As the aroma of grilled beef and onions drifted through the streets, it provided comfort to a community facing severe drought conditions that would contribute to the Dust Bowl.
As America emerged from World War II, Nick’s found itself perfectly positioned to serve a community ready to celebrate prosperity. The 1940s and 1950s brought significant changes to Brookings, with South Dakota State University expanding and bringing new students and faculty to town.
The unique U-shaped counter design, which remains today, fostered conversation and community interaction in an era before television dominated social life. Customers sat elbow-to-elbow, watching their meals being prepared while discussing local politics, farming conditions, and university sports. This design wasn’t just functional—it was the heart of Nick’s social appeal.
While shop owners have changed since the founding generation, the hamburgers have remained constant. Harold Niklason Jr. took over from his parents before eventually selling to former employee Duane Larson, who understood the critical importance of maintaining the restaurant’s reputation and time-tested methods.
During Larson’s ownership, Nick’s weathered the rise of fast-food chains like McDonald’s and Burger King. The secret to survival wasn’t competing on speed or convenience—it was offering something corporate chains couldn’t replicate: distinctive preparation methods, quality ingredients, and an authentic community atmosphere.
NICK'S BUILDING
ORIGINAL OWNERS HAROLD AND GLADYS NIKALSON
NICK'S UNIQUE U-SHAPED COUNTER
NICK'S BUILDING TODAY
DELICIOUS NICK'S HAMBURGERS
In 2004, Dick Fergen bought Nick’s and thoughtfully expanded the space with additional indoor seating and outdoor dining. The transition continued seamlessly when Todd Fergen took over operations after his father’s passing in 2013. Now his son Cody has joined the family business, representing the fourth generation of ownership.
Each morning, Todd and Cody begin their day together in the kitchen, making meatballs, chopping onions, and preparing for the 11:00 a.m. opening (10:00 a.m. on Saturdays). Nick’s trademark technique of deep-frying meatballs and smashing them into their familiar form remains on full display at the grill, virtually unchanged since 1929.
The fundamental recipes—the oil, seasonings, prime beef mixture, and famous relish—remain closely guarded secrets. These formulations represent nearly 95 years of accumulated knowledge, passed down through just a handful of owners who understood their responsibility as custodians of tradition.
Today, Nick’s serves as far more than a dining establishment. It’s a hometown hub where families gather for reunions and funerals, friends meet during South Dakota State’s Hobo Days, and countless life moments unfold. The restaurant has witnessed first dates, business deals, family celebrations, and community discussions.
Todd, a Brookings native himself, captures Nick’s enduring charm: “Everybody’s always happy to be at Nick’s! We keep it simple and the same. We don’t like change much around here. Everyone knows what to expect, and that’s why it works.”
In an era of constant change, Nick’s offers something increasingly rare: predictability, authenticity, and connection to the past. It’s a recipe for success that has endured for nearly a century, proving that sometimes the best innovation is simply perfecting tradition.
By: Duane Duimstra, Sioux Falls VA Public Affairs Officer
People live their lives in many different ways, and some choose to dedicate their lives to serving others. Barb Thaler, a Sioux Falls VA Health Care System licensed practical nurse (LPN), is one of those people.
Barb has been providing comprehensive healthcare to Veterans at the Sioux Falls VA for over 40 years and has served in various clinics and service lines to assist our Veterans.
“We need to help our Veterans, and it doesn’t matter what position you’re in,” Barb states. “We have to put Veterans first, and that’s what the Sioux Falls VA is about.”
During her 40 years of serving and helping Veterans, Barb has also served her community and others around the country as a volunteer.
She has volunteered for her local fire department for as long as she has worked for the VA. Barb has held numerous positions at her local fire department, including rescue chief and assistant chief. She also volunteers as a CPR and first aid instructor, as well as teaching EMS/EMT across the state of South Dakota.
Barb has impacted the lives of countless people through her time at her local fire department and in other organizations for which she volunteers.
“Whether you’re volunteering for after prom, a city-wide cleanup, the fire department, or the Legion and VFW Auxiliary, you make memories while sharing the experience with other volunteers,” adds Barb.
Volunteering doesn’t stop in her local community; Barb also regularly volunteers for the Veterans Health Administration’s Disaster Emergency Medical Personnel System (DEMPS) deployment. A DEMPS deployment is used for the internal Veterans Health Administration (VHA) mission, made up of voluntary staff to deploy both clinical and non-clinical staff to an emergency or disaster.
Barb has volunteered for numerous DEMPS deployments. She has deployed and helped communities in Florida, Puerto Rico, Louisiana, and Omaha.
“It’s my favorite volunteering opportunity,” Barb shares. “I continue to volunteer for the VHA DEMPS deployment because I get to help people and communities at their lowest.”
A life of service isn’t for everyone, but it’s a life that Barb Thaler chooses to live by. It brings her joy knowing she’s able to help Veterans, people, and communities when they are in need.
WHY SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO PLAN YOUR Breast Reduction Surgery
As the summer months settle in, many of us find ourselves thinking about comfort, confidence, and self-care — and for some, that includes considering breast reduction surgery. If you’ve been contemplating this procedure, now is the perfect time to schedule your consultation and get a head start on planning before the end of the year.
Many insurance plans reset at the beginning of the calendar year. By scheduling your consultation now, you have time to:
Complete any necessary medical documentation
Receive pre-authorization if your insurance covers breast reduction surgery
Meet any deductible or out-of-pocket requirements before benefits reset
This proactive approach can make a significant difference in both your out-of-pocket costs and how soon you’re able to schedule surgery.
BREAST REDUCTION IS ABOUT MORE THAN AESTHETICS
Breast reduction surgery isn’t just cosmetic — it’s often a medically necessary procedure for women experiencing:
Chronic neck, shoulder, or back pain
Skin irritation beneath the breasts
Difficulty with physical activity
Posture issues
Bra strap indentations
Many insurance plans recognize these health concerns and may offer coverage when specific criteria are met. Our team is experienced in working with insurance providers and guiding patients through the approval process.
WHY SUMMER IS AN IDEAL SEASON TO START PLANNING
Scheduling your consultation during the summer gives you the flexibility to:
Choose a surgery date that fits your calendar before the holiday season or year-end
Plan for downtime and recovery without interfering with school, work, or family commitments
Use available vacation or personal days toward your recovery period
Stay ahead of insurance deadlines to maximize your current year ’s benefits
WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR CONSULTATION
During your initial visit at Plastic Surgery Associates, our experienced surgeons will:
Discuss your health history and symptoms
Review your insurance guidelines and requirements
Perform an exam to determine candidacy and coverage qualifications
Customize a surgical plan tailored to your body, goals, and lifestyle
You’ll leave with a clear understanding of your options, a timeline for surgery, and a dedicated team to help you navigate insurance approvals and scheduling.
READY TO GET STARTED?
If you’ve been putting off a breast reduction consultation, now is the time! Take advantage of your 2025 insurance benefits and prioritize your health, comfort, and confidence this year.
By: Erica Wilcox
It’s no surprise that shorts aren’t everyone’s favorite summer piece to wear. Through the years we’ve seen different styles, lengths, and textiles evolve, with last year’s top trending short being the micro short. No one wanted to shop that style and for good reason. As luck would have it, this year’s shorts trends are showing all styles, lengths and fits of shorts that will flatter every body shape! My fellow millennials will remember the popularity of the Bermuda and culotte shorts growing up, both styles which will be making a roaring comeback this summer!
To find your perfect pair of shorts, it’s important first to look for a style and length that flatter your legs and body shape. Shorts are truly not a one-style-fits-all type of garment. Here’s a quick rule of thumb on leg shape:
MUSCULAR/THICK THIGHS:
You’ll want to find styles like “Mom Fit” or “Relaxed,” traditionally styled with a longer inseam and wider leg. Look for “Curve” collections. Both Abercrombie and Madewell have these lines that are meant for curvier leg shapes.
SLIM/THIN LEGS :
Look for styles like, “Slim-Fit,” “Straight-Legged,” or “Tapered.” These fits are going to shape your legs the best without excess volume, and remember that a looser leg shape will emphasize a thinner thigh.
As far as the best length of shorts, it’s best to consider your height, or more specifically, leg height. Keep your proportions in mind. Typically, those with shorter legs tend to gravitate towards a shorter length as a longer short could appear to cut the leg in half. Those with longer legs tend to wear longer shorts to balance the leg length and cover more of the leg.
Luckily, all leg shapes can rock the Bermuda shorts trend. The ideal length of this short is just above the knee, so keep this in mind when you’re shopping or trying this style on. If you find a style you love, don’t be afraid to cuff the bottom to achieve the length you’re hoping for. Different leg shapes will like the fit of different textiles over others, however. A cotton/spandex fabric will have more stretch and more comfort for a thicker thigh than a viscose/linen material.
READY TO TRY THESE TRENDS?
BE SURE TO FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM AND THE FREE SHOPPING APP, LTK, TO SEE THESE PIECES LINKED AS WELL AS MORE SUMMER SHORTS! @BESTDRESSEDBLONDE
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 individuals telling 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.
By: Kathryn Swanson, Financial Advisor
Americans find pride and enjoyment in celebrating our independence every 4th of July. What does independence in our own lives look like? Are we depending on other people when it comes to our financial well-being, or do we have a healthy reliance on learning from others while being confident in our own decisions? Let’s dive into some ways to win control over your finances this July.
FIRST STEPS
A crucial step to financial independence is having an accurate understanding of your financial picture. Budgeting is a great way to see how you spend your money and where changes can be made. Creating a balance sheet or a list of your assets and liabilities also paints a picture of your current net worth. A simple step you can implement is taking inventory of the accounts you currently have. Checking and savings accounts at your bank, your 401(k), old retirement accounts
CONSOLIDATE ASSETS
Once you have a list of your accounts, you can move forward by understanding them. Consolidating your assets can cut down on expense fees and work on your part. Old 401(k)s can be moved into your IRA or your current employer’s retirement plan. Like-kind accounts can be combined. If you have a 401(k) with a company you no longer work for, you can move that account to be more accessible. Your current employer may allow it to be wrapped up into your account, or you can open an IRA as a landing account if you anticipate another job change. Having your assets in as few accounts as possible makes handling them more manageable.
WHAT ABOUT DIVERSIFICATION?
Diversification is imperative to financial success. Diversification is the idea of not having all your eggs in one basket. How does this practically play out? Diversification is not necessarily having your money spread out through numerous accounts or in numerous different funds. Diversification means not investing your money into a single or limited number of investments. Having your retirement money in multiple accounts with different companies does not mean that it is diversified. Often, these accounts are invested in the same companies, which makes it the equivalent of putting your eggs in different corners of the same basket. Additionally, just because you are invested in every single fund option in your 401(k) does not mean that you are effectively diversified compared to someone who is only in a few funds. Many of the same companies are usually found within multiple funds, meaning you have the equivalent of a basket full of many tiny eggs instead of one large one.
DIVERSIFICATION
IN-SERVICE DISTRIBUTIONS
While you are working, you are generally not able to take money out of your current employers’ 401(k) without tax consequences and penalties. Once you reach age 59 and 1/2, many plans allow for taking money out through an in-service distribution. Employer retirement plans such as 401(k)s offer a great option to save for retirement but are often limited in funds and accessibility. An in-service distribution allows for more individualized planning and increased management ability to invest your money according to your goals.
WORK TOGETHER FOR FINANCIAL FREEDOM
Having a clear picture of your finances and knowing where and what your money is doing allows you to reach your goals and build wealth. Becoming financially independent does not mean you have to do it alone. Contact Swenson Wealth Management to assist you in achieving control of your finances and celebrate more than just America’s independence this July.
Investment advisory services offered through Alternative Investment Advisors, LLC. (AIA), an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. AIA and its advisors do not render tax, legal or accounting advice. Fixed insurance products and services are offered through Swenson Wealth Management. Swenson Wealth Management is not a registered investment advisor and is not a subsidiary or affiliate of Alternative Investment Advisors, LLC. Swenson Wealth Management and their individually licensed and appointed insurance agents, and AIA are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any government agency.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization’s initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.
MORE ABOUT KATHRYN SWANSON
Finances, the economy, and investing have piqued my interest since my very first Econ 101 class. The more I learned, the more my interest grew. Simultaneously, I found out how many people do not enjoy talking about these things or are overwhelmed by the number of questions they have. My desire to help those around me understand their financial picture and alleviate financial stress motivates my work as a financial advisor. I can think of no better job than helping educate others on how to use their hard-earned money to help them reach their life goals. I recently passed my CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNING® exam, which is an important step as I pursue becoming a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNING® Professional. This certification is the standard of ethics, excellence, experience, knowledge, and competence in the financial planning field. Don’t just take my word for it though- look it up to know what being a CFP® Professional means. I look forward to working with you to reach your goals!
5002 S. Broadband Ln. Ste 110, Sioux Falls, SD 57108 www.swensonwealth.com
FINANCIAL ADVISOR/PRESIDENT
Stopping Stigma. Saving Lives.
By: Lauren Johnson
The mission at Emily’s Hope is to remove the stigma of substance use disorder through awareness, education, and prevention, and to remove financial barriers for treatment and recovery. You can help stop the stigma and save lives by joining Emily's Hope Cruise Night and Car Show at Autoland in Sioux Falls, July 16th from 5-9 p.m. This fun and family-friendly event is open to the public, welcomes vehicles of all ages, and invites car enthusiasts everywhere to display their prized automobiles while supporting a meaningful cause.
Angela Kennecke is the founder and CEO of Emily’s Hope, named after her daughter Emily. “I lost my 21-year-old daughter to fentanyl poisoning. This happened while I was on the air as an anchor at KELO, where I was working on a story about drug overdoses on the day I got the news in 2018,” Angela shares.
Angela shared her story publicly, and she soon started a fund to help others get treatment through the Avera Center. To date, about 230 people have received nearly $500,000 in scholarships. “We started with scholarships and then expanded the charity by founding Emily’s Hope in 2019. I’ve been doing a weekly podcast called Grieving Out Loud since April 2019, where we cover stories related to substance use disorder, fentanyl poisoning, and grief,” Angela explains.
Emily’s Hope charity now includes:
- Our Post-Overdose Response Team is in Minnehaha and Lincoln County with resources for overdose victims who survive, soon expanding to five additional counties
- A Youth Prevention Coalition, which is working on prevention efforts in the Sioux Falls area with clubs in schools and parent-caregiver workshops
- Support for families who have lost someone to overdose
- A K-12 curriculum in five states reaching thousands of students
- Readily available fentanyl testing strips
- A distribution program for naloxone (also known as NARCAN®) in partnership with the state of South Dakota. It’s a first-in-the-nation initiative to anonymously distribute 20,000 naloxone kits, totaling 40,000 doses, throughout the state.
“We’re just a small nonprofit but really busy, with a big mission to end the fentanyl poisoning crisis in this country,” Angela says. "Across the country, overdose deaths dropped by 27 percent in 2024— but we still lost 80,000 lives. When my daughter died in 2018, that number was 72,000. Tragically, South Dakota was one of only two states where deaths increased last year. In Sioux Falls alone, overdose deaths rose by 50 percent. But there’s hope: in the first half of this year, those numbers are down by 20 percent. I believe our free naloxone distribution through Emily’s Hope has played a part in saving those lives," Angela states.
“We couldn’t do it without all the partners who have come alongside us, and Autoland is a great partner. Brad and Karen Dumdie are the owners, and every year, they provide the location, food, and music, and they put on a parade of cars,” Angela notes.
Emily was a student at O’Gorman High School and a budding artist. In 2015, Emily stated, “I hope to brighten the world through my passion for art.” And she is. Autoland purchased a VW Bug, stripped it, and had students paint the Bug using Emily’s art as inspiration.
“They paint it in the days leading up to the event each year, and we take it to schools and have it in the parade,” Angela says. “It was all Brad’s idea. He loved that she was an artist and thought it would be cool to honor her and support the cause in this way. It opens up conversations with students about what happened. The car is such a fun and artistic talking point to help bring Emily’s story to life.”
The Cruise Club of South Dakota joins the festivities, which include a fireworks show, a 50/50 raffle, a $5 donation for a burger or hot dog and chips, and the distribution of naloxone.
“It takes an entire community to end this epidemic, and we should all care about it because it’s robbing us of our young people. I am so grateful when people step up and support the charity,” Angela shares.
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.”
AMENITIES
• Coffee Shop
• Salon
• Walk-in Whirlpool Spa
• Centrally located meals and activities
SERVICES
• Caring, trusted, 24-hour staff
• Personal housekeeping
• Theater
• Courtyards
• Spacious suites all on one level
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.
• Three homestyle meals per day
• Professional medication administration and laundry
• On-site physical, restorative
• Scheduled daily social and and cognitive therapy exercise activities
• Wellness clinic
• Personal pendant system
• Assistance with activities of daily living
Our passion for assisted living shines through every day at StoneyBrook Suites.
Life is too short to eat boring food.
All of us at Empire know that food is the ingredient that brings us together! In the coming months, we will be featuring the best foodie spots in Sioux Falls!
Want to feature your foodie spot? We’d love to have you! Email ads@michelscom.com for more information!
14th Annual Kilts for Kids
Benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Dakota
Thursday, October 16, 2025 6PM to 10PM
The District 4521 West Empire Place Sioux Falls, SD
Event Sponsorships Available
Contact Jessica Arend at jarend@rmhcsodak.org
Stay tuned for more information on how to support the Ronald McDonald House.
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Experience Exceptional.
mission is to provide exceptional care and service with compassion while offering maintenance-free living and personalized care services. We believe that all people have great value and worth and we see extraordinary meaning in providing a lifestyle that fits you!
The summer concert series and family fun night, DownTown in MadTown, is returning to Madison this summer. DownTown in MadTown will once again be held in the middle of Madison beginning on July 15th. The event will consist of six family-friendly entertainment nights including two dates in July and four in August, all on Tuesdays.
Each week, DownTown in MadTown will start at 6:00 p.m. and go until 9:00 p.m. featuring a band, food vendors, shopping options, and kids’ activities. Each week will also have a specific theme, including Classic Car Night and National Night Out. A few of the kids’ activities planned are inflatables, and face painting.
The event encompasses 3 blocks of DownTown Madison. For a complete schedule listing, scan the QR code that is available.
