PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATE JONES STUDIOS
6
EMPIRE
CONTRIBUTORS
team of writers
Andrea Van Essen, Erica Wilcox, Lauren Johnson, Sarah Grassel, Michaela Feldmann, Natalie Frazier, & Duane Duimstra
Account Executives
Cory Johnsen
605-951-3567 | cory@michelscom.com
Jill Foley
712-490-8506 | jill@michelscom.com
SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR
Stace Osthus
605-261-0437 | stace@michelscom.com
Editor
Heather Jordan heather@michelscom.com
Photography
Kate Jones Studios katejonesstudios.com
graphic designer Makenzie Jorgenson
chief of operations
Hanna Michels
605-760-4269 | hanna@michelscom.com
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 2025 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.
By: Andrea Van Essen
Photos By: Kate Jones Studios
MARCELA SALAS AND HER MOTHER, PATRICIA BURBINE, HAVE BEEN MAKING AND SELLING SALSAS AND TAMALES TOGETHER SINCE THE SUMMER OF 2020, BUT THEIR CONNECTION IN THE KITCHEN GOES BACK YEARS — EVEN DECADES — BEFORE THEN.
Patricia’s mother loved making food for her family, and she passed that legacy down to the following generations.
“The family moved around Mexico a lot, so my grandma was able to learn a lot of different recipes from the different states and regions of Mexico, and even though she never received a formal education or learned to read, she remembered every recipe she ever learned. The kitchen was her domain,” explains Marcela.
Marcela’s grandmother passed down her knowledge to Patricia, encouraging Patricia to one day start her own restaurant.
“My mom would say, ‘One day, maybe you should do something, sell tamales or something,” states Patricia. “So, I opened a very small restaurant in Veracruz. My mom gave me her recipes, and it started with comida corrida, or lunch plates for the working crowd. It’s a Mexican tradition — lunch with an entree and a few sides.”
When Marcela was about two years old, however, Patricia decided to close the restaurant and move to the United States with her three daughters to be with her then-husband, who was working in Omaha as a welder. “It was my mom’s way of bringing our family together,” shares Marcela.
Photos Left to Right: Patricia, Chris, and Marcela inside of BibiSol; Marcela at 4 years old in Veracruz, Mexico; Patricia and newborn Marcela
“My family in Mexico wanted me to come back because I had no family here, and my support was all in Mexico. But I felt God had something for me here, and being on my own with my daughters was my responsibility. People helped me. God put friends and work in my life,” notes Patricia.
While living in Omaha, the family faced times of significant hardship. Patricia’s husband didn’t remain in the picture, and she had to work incredibly hard to make ends meet as a single mother.
“My mom had this amazing ability to make food out of where we didn’t see any food. We went through homelessness for a time, and my mom wouldn’t eat or take care of herself just to make sure my sisters and I were taken care of,” Marcela recalls.
That season of hardship and necessity sparked creativity in the kitchen.
“I just had to figure things out. We always had potatoes, so one day it was potatoes and rice, another day potatoes and chorizo, even potato taquitos. Always something with potatoes,” Patricia adds.
As the family’s financial situation improved thanks to Patricia’s hard work, they had more freedom to experiment in the kitchen, creating unique dishes like pineapple empanadas. As the middle of Patricia’s three daughters, Marcela says she’s the only one of her siblings who ever got excited about cooking.
Photos Top to Bottom: Chris, Patricia, and Marcela; Patricia with puppies from her dog, Juju, in 1989; Patricia at our first Hy-Vee drop off in Minnesota 2021 for Salas Salsas
“WATCHING HER ENJOY THE KITCHEN REALLY INSPIRED ME. I WAS ALWAYS THE ONE JOINING IN AND HELPING HER OUT WITH THANKSGIVING OR CHRISTMAS DINNERS. I CALL MYSELF HER GUM OR HER CHICLE BECAUSE I’M ALWAYS STUCK TO HER,” MARCELA SMILES.
Today, the potato taquitos on the menu at Bibisol — the restaurant Marcela and Patricia own and operate together — are an homage to those days and a reminder of how far the family has come.
Bibisol, which comes from Marcela’s childhood nickname, Bibi, and Patricia’s middle name, Soledad, offers modern Mexican cuisine made using traditional, indigenous techniques that honor Marcela and Patricia’s heritage and the land around us. Wherever possible, they make a point to source quality ingredients from local growers who take their work seriously using sustainable, regenerative farming techniques.
Bibisol opened in the Spring of 2024 and sits in the heart of downtown Sioux Falls on Phillips Avenue. The vibrant interior, designed entirely by Marcela, reflects her creative background in studio arts. Her education and career path have included a variety of disciplines and Marcela notes that her mom insisted she attend college though she didn’t have a clear direction at first.
Marcela began a degree program in studio arts, but ended up shifting to culinary school, which nurtured a dream of someday owning a restaurant. She worked in the restaurant industry for a while before experiencing burnout and took a job at Walgreens, where she worked her way up from a front-end cashier position all the way to a pharmacy technician. In 2018, she moved to Sioux Falls where she was inspired by her stepfather, Ray, to pursue pilot’s training.
She now has her private pilot’s license and envisions possibly getting a commercial license someday. For the time being, however, Marcela enjoys flying as a hobby while living the restaurant dream in her professional life.
Getting to make that dream a reality alongside her mother has been an impactful experience for Marcela, who emphasizes how proud she is of Patricia for how far she’s come.
“It’s been empowering to watch my mom go from someone who cleans houses to now having her own
Photos Top to Bottom: Chris, Marcela, and Patricia at Buffalo Ridge Brewing in 2022; Marcela with Patricia and Raymond, her mom and dad
staff. She teaches her recipes, handles quality control, and watching her be within that power empowers me as well,” Marcela states.
“It’s really come full circle to be able to take my grandmother’s recipes and do something that was never in reach when she was younger. All of these opportunities that opened up are aligning so divinely,” Marcela continues.
Marcela’s romantic relationship even came about as a result of the business.
Her fiancé, Chris Nelson, is Bibisol’s front-of-house manager, but he first noticed her back in 2020 at the Brandon Farmer’s market, where Marcela and Patricia were selling salsas and tamales.
“She caught my eye, and I started buying tamales every week. I had never had one before, so I just bought it and acted like I knew what I was doing, but I had to Google how to do it,” adds Chris, admitting he didn’t realize that the husk had to be removed before eating.
Patricia knew something was up right away, but it took Marcela awhile to catch on.
“This boy’s buying way too many tamales and salsas,” Patricia playfully warns.
“I just thought he was our VIP. He’d come up and buy $80 worth of tamales and chips and salsa every week,” Marcela adds.
The two became close friends before pursuing a romantic relationship and Chris waited patiently for Marcela to be ready. They got engaged in 2023 and plan to get married this summer.
Over the years, Chris has spent more and more time helping Marcela and Patricia out with their pop-ups, the food truck and now the restaurant, eventually quitting his corporate job to join them full-time. For someone who didn’t know how to eat a tamale at first, he’s come a long way.
“Chris didn’t even eat spicy food when this all started, but now he eats spicier than me,” Patricia adds.
Together, the trio is committed to doing what they can to make a difference through their work, by reconnecting to Mexican culture and heritage while also tying in the local landscape.
“We have reverence for what we’re doing through intentional sourcing, processing our corn in-house through nixtamalization, and doing things in the most traditional, authentic way,” notes Marcela.
She hopes the work they’re doing will make a positive difference in the local food and restaurant culture.
“Hopefully, because of the standard we’re setting with food in general, others will hop on board and be inspired to do those things as well, even if it’s just our little part of the entire nation,” Marcela says.
Marcela as a pumpkin with Patricia next to her for Halloween in 1994
Marcela in traditional Jarocha attire on her 3rd birthday
MORE ABOUT
Marcela enjoys flying airplanes when time allows.
She loves rock-climbing at Frontier, but she prefers to do more climbing on actual rock faces.
Marcela enjoys exploring the diverse flavors found across the U.S., especially the unique and often overlooked ingredients that reflect each region’s roots.
She is always walking barefoot outside; appreciating nature around her.
Marcela cherishes spending time with Chris and her son Leo, especially their hiking trips.
Patricia enjoys cooking for her family and creating new things in the kitchen.
Puzzles are a hobby of hers.
She loves going on road trips or motorcycle trips with Ray.
In her free time, Patricia spends time with her dog Aikau and takes him to Sherman Park.
Patricia loves camping with Ray, Aikau and family.
Spring Art & Wine Walk 2025
Date: Friday, May 2, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Street Closure: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Downtown, Sioux Falls
Admission: Free to attend; wine sampling punch cards available for purchase
First of Four Open Streets Events Kicks Off in May
A livable community is a place where people of all ages and abilities are able to enjoy a quality of life enhanced by vibrant public spaces, opportunities for social connection, safe places to walk and bike and more.
Open Streets events are a way to show how a community can reimagine public spaces like a street when it is closed to vehicles and opened up for pedestrians.
This summer, each First Friday will feature a different Open Streets event, and AARP South Dakota is proud to be collaborating with Downtown Sioux Falls and the City of Sioux Falls for these events.
We kick off the series with the May Art & Wine Walk on Friday, May 2, from 5-8 p.m. The event is free and open to all ages.
Phillips Avenue will be closed (starting at 4 p.m.) between 9th and 10th Streets...transforming the area into a pedestrian-friendly space. This initiative enhances walkability and fosters a vibrant community atmosphere, making it easier for attendees to navigate the event and enjoy the festivities safely.
For wine enthusiasts, sampling punch cards will be available for purchase, granting access to a curated selection of wines at participating venues. Each location will offer unique wine tastings, providing an opportunity to discover new favorites while appreciating the local art scene.
Mark your calendar for the rest of the Open Streets events in Downtown Sioux Falls this summer: Friday, June 6 - family-friendly activities
Friday, July 4 - street market and more before the evening Levitt concert Friday, August 1 - DTSF Art & Wine Walk
MAY 6 - MAY 12
Join Tri-State Nursing, the Midwest’s leading nursing staffing agency, to honor the varying roles of nurses and their positive impact in our lives. Nurses make a difference as trusted advocates who ensure individuals, families, and communities receive quality patient care and services.
Nurses make a difference every day!
If you are interested in making a difference, become an RN, LPN, or CNA/CMA with Tri-State Nursing! We are professionals with pride!
“As a nurse myself, I know first hand the care and compassion these individuals display is incredibly profound! A career in nursing is extremely rewarding and limitless!”
- Bridget Hoefling, President and CEO of Tri-State Nursing
Every mom deserves a life filled with comfort, care, and joy. Our assisted living community offers the perfect balance of independence and support, ensuring that your mother—or grandmother—receives the exceptional care she deserves.
With spacious suites, healthy meals, engaging activities, and compassionate caregivers, every day feels special at
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
• 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
Spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites. Call for availability and pricing.
Our passion for assisted living shines through every day at StoneyBrook Suites.
HOLLAND HOUSE +
ROOTED BOUTIQUE
By: Michaela Feldmann
How a Friendship Grew into the Perfect Business Venture
“It’s all about the experience. Our customers don’t just come in, pick something out, check out and leave. We are connecting with them on a deeper level.”
Marie Turano and Emily Vollmar joke and laugh as they look back on their friendship together.
“Well, I used to have a rug problem,” says Emily.
“A rug AND pillow problem,” jokes Marie.
“Yes, OK fair, but better than a drug problem, right?!” they both laugh and agree.
“Well, before Rooted was even an idea, I was obsessed with Marie’s store in Orange City. I loved her aesthetic and how peaceful and perfect her space was. Watching her be able to express herself through design was a huge inspiration to me as I started my own business, Rooted Boutique,” Emily reflects.
The duo has cheered each other on throughout the years in their personal and professional lives and soon they realized they had another thing in common – their customers.
“They really share the same esthetic,” adds Marie. “So, we figured we should be in business together.”
In 2021, Marie was looking to expand Holland House to Sioux City, and it just happened to be the space next to Rooted Boutique and Emily.
“I had some unfortunate life events happen that year and God just knew that it wasn’t the right time for me,” says Marie. “But ever since we’ve just loved the idea of working next to each other in some capacity.”
That dream is soon to become a reality as Marie and Emily open the joint venture of Holland House x Rooted Boutique in May 2025 in Spirit Lake.
“We are beyond excited for this,” shares Emily. “Our customers love and want to shop both our stores. If they like Rooted, they usually like Holland House and vice versa.”
“Our employes are so similar too,” adds Marie, “They live and breathe Rooted and Holland House. It just feels good to be surrounded by that peacefulness.”
The two will share the same space at 802 Lake Street, Suite 1. On the left will be Holland House, and to the right – Rooted Boutique.
“We will each have our own checkouts and employees, but we want to provide a free-flowing shopping experience that integrates both our brands together under one roof,” explains Emily.
“It’s all the things you could ever want – décor, furniture, shoes, clothing and we will even offer drinks,” adds Marie.
We will be offering a custom coffee blend by Holland House that will be available for purchase along with speciality drinks, cocktails and mocktails.
“We just want people to come in and feel at home,” says Marie. “Like they want to stick around, hang out, talk and just feel good. Both of us can give that to people who come in our doors.”
“We always want our customers to feel like they are shopping in their best friend’s closet when they are with us, and the new Spirit Lake location will be no different. With lounge style dressing rooms and an atmosphere perfect for girl talk, we want our clients to feel right at home at the new Holland House X Rooted Boutique!” Emily adds.
And Spirit Lake was the perfect location to do so.
“I’ve always had ties to the Lakes area,” says Emily. “I spent a lot of time there growing up and I have family there. So, it feels like a natural place to put down roots.”
“The community is just so welcoming,” adds Marie. “They’re growing year-round and they have a thriving downtown, which is where we will be. It’s Emily and my style to be in those close-knit communities and integrate into them.”
The new location will be run by Holland House Store Manager Lexi Faas and Rooted Boutique Store Manager Afton Wulf.
“It’s just so fun and unique what we are doing,” shares Marie and Emily. “The sky is going to be the limit for what we can do for our customers.”
By: Duane Duimstra
The VA’s whole health approach emphasizes the importance of staying active and being physically fit.
Jim Klempka, a Vietnam Army veteran and Purple Heart recipient, is doing just that with his new recumbent bike provided by the Sioux Falls VA Health Care System’s Recreation Therapy program.
The VA recreation therapy is a caring
care provider makes a physical or mental diagnosis that restricts their ability to participate independently in sports or activities.
Jim sustained injuries during his time in Vietnam, which later led to further injuries in his lower body and affected his mobility. Biking was one of Jim’s favorite activities, but as he got older, it became increasingly difficult due to his
The Sioux Falls VA recreation therapy team adjusted the bike to meet Kempka’s needs, ensuring the controls and pedals were properly positioned for a successful bike ride.
“I’ve never seen a recumbent bike before and they had me try it out in Sioux Falls,” said Klempka. “It’s extremely comfortable, and it allows you to keep all your legs and joint moving just like riding a regular bike.”
Klempka has visited the Sioux Falls VA for various healthcare needs related to his time in Vietnam and has had a great experience. He is now including the recreation therapy program in his list of positive experiences.
“I’ve had nothing but excellent care at the Sioux Falls VA. I would have to say it’s got to be one of the top VAs in the country,” said Klempka.
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!
ConcertSCHEDULE
May
Stardust Fest
Sat 5/3 - Central States Fair, Rapid City
Escape from the Zoo
Sat 5/3 - The Den, Sioux Falls
Devon Worley
Sat 5/3 - The Den, Sioux Falls
Prince Tribute Show Live
Sat 5/7 - Orpheum Theatre, Sioux City Night Ranger
Sat 5/23 - SD Military Heritage Alliance, Sioux Falls
Local Musician's Round Table
Thur 5/29 - The Den, Sioux Falls
June
Breaking Benjamin & Staind
Sat 5/31 - Council Bluffs, IA
Renaissance Festival
6/7 to 6/8 - Fair Grounds, Sioux Falls
Rally at the Valley
6/12 to 6/15 - Thunder Valley, Parker
PhaseFest
Fri 6/13 - Canaries, Sioux Falls
Taco & Tequila Festival
Sat 6/14 - Canaries, Sioux Falls
Open Mic/Round Table
6/21 - The Den, Sioux Falls
Tee it up on some of South Dakota’s best golf courses in Southeast South Dakota. We have some of the region’s premier courses, each featuring their own signature landscapes and challenges so you can experience a rewarding round.
So, grab your clubs and some friends for an outdoor adventure on the links!
SHOW THIS AD FOR BUY ONE HOUR, GET ONE HOUR OF GOLF EXPIRES 8.31.25
BECOME A TITANIUM MEMBER
AS A TITANIUM MEMBER YOU’LL HAVE PRIORITY ACCESS TO GOLF AND EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS.
• INDIVIDUAL & CORPORATE MONTHLY, SIX MONTH OR ANNUAL MEMBERSHIPS
• DEALS ON GOLF, RETAIL, FOOD & BEVERAGE AND LESSONS WITH SANFORD SPORTS ACADEMY
By: ArticleCity
Sports are going digital including golf. Make the most of this trend and invest in the best golf apps for your game.
INTERACTIVE SPORTS APPS
These interactive sports apps, such as Golf Plan, Swing Jacket, and Swing Smart, offer golfers a way to monitor and analyze data. With the ability to compare, golfers can measure stats such as angle of attack, club head speed, and spin rate. The ability to view a 3D representation of their swing can help golfers visualize their gameplay and pinpoint any pitching or chipping issues.
These apps are a great way for intermediate and novice golfers to improve their game and sharpen their skills. Try a golf distance tracker and track your performance in order to improve. Learn what’s available, assess your needs, and try the apps with golf clubs to enhance your enjoyment and gain skills to take you to the next level!
SENSORS
Using sensors and golf clubs specially designed for seamless integration with mobile devices, golfers can access golfing-specific data. Smart clubs use sensors to record your swing speed, tempo, and other key metrics that help you fine-tune your technique. Some clubs also come with personalized coaching programs that give you feedback on your swings.
ADJUSTABLE SHAFTS AND HEADS
Adjustable shafts and heads are two of the most prominent golfing tools when it comes to the latest golfing technology. With adjustable shafts, golfers are able to customize their clubs for a better feel and performance. Similarly, adjustable heads, give golfers greater control over their shots.
LASER RANGEFINDERS
Laser rangefinders provide detailed readings of distances, but they can also be used for analyzing different playing conditions and angles. This makes it easier to calculate yardage to bunkers, water, and trees. For an unprecedented level of detail and precision in your game, try a rangefinder.
Golfing tools have become more advanced and easier to use. The appropriate golf club for your game makes all the difference in your performance. Get the most out of your golf game by getting the latest and most up-to-date golf clubs and sports apps available today. Try them and experience the difference!
2025 SFG EVENTS CALENDAR
All participants must have an active GHIN handicap to play in events
*Except Couples, Family, Fast 5, Glow Ball, & Adult/Jr events
Registration for each event will be two weeks prior to the event
*Srixon, City Champ, & Couples may be sooner & require pre-payment = Mayor's Cup Qualifying Event
WHETHER YOU ARE LOOKING FOR COMPETITIVE TOURNAMENTS OR FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY, WE’VE GOT SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT SIOUX FALLS GOLF THIS SEASON! LEARN MORE AT SIOUXFALLSGOLF.COM TODAY!
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING COMPETITIVE DON’T MISS OUT ON OUR RACE TO THE MAYOR’S CUP QUALIFYING EVENTS ALL SEASON LONG! THESE EVENTS EARN YOU POINTS WITH THE TOP 36 IN THE SEASON-LONG STANDINGS QUALIFYING TO PLAY IN THE EXCLUSIVE MAYOR’S CUP TOURNAMENT PITTING ELMWOOD VS PRAIRIE GREEN IN A RYDER CUP STYLE TEAM TOURNAMENT!
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING COMPETITIVE DON’T MISS OUT ON OUR RACE TO THE MAYOR’S CUP QUALIFYING EVENTS ALL SEASON LONG! THESE EVENTS EARN YOU POINTS WITH THE TOP 36 IN THE SEASON-LONG STANDINGS QUALIFYING TO PLAY IN EXCLUSIVE A RYDER
LOOKING FOR FUN? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN ADULT/JUNIOR EVENTS, COUPLES NIGHTS, 5 UNDER THE LIGHTS, GLOW BALL THE EAST 9, & MORE!
LOOKING FOR FUN? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN OUR ADULT/JUNIOR EVENTS, THEMED COUPLES NIGHTS, FAST 5 UNDER THE LIGHTS, GLOW BALL ON THE EAST 9, & MORE! FOR SOMETHING EVERYONE SIOUX FALLS SEASON! AT SIOUXFALLSGOLF.COM TODAY!
By: Lauren Johnson
Take on Junior Achievement’s 27th annual 100 Hole Golf Challenge and have fun while raising funds for JA students in South Dakota! The event is scheduled for Monday, June 2 at the Brandon Golf Course beginning at 6:00 am. Golfers support Junior Achievement lessons and experiences by fundraising, with prizes awarded to top fundraisers! Play 100 holes as an individual or partner with a friend to each golf 50 holes, all in one day.
Junior Achievement of South Dakota is a nonprofit organization that inspires and prepares young people to succeed in a global economy. JA experiences are designed for each grade level and cover topics like financial decision-making, ethics, entrepreneurial mindset, work and career awareness, and so much more. Joining the JA 100 Hole Challenge is a fun way to help invest in the future of South Dakota’s students.
“We have a variety of golfers who participate because of their passion for Junior Achievement,” says Chelsea Cronin, Senior Director of Development.
Sponsorships for events like the 100 Hole Challenge are critical for Junior Achievement to continue providing no-cost, life-changing programs to students across South Dakota.
“I have so much admiration for folks who are willing to complete 100 holes in one day to support our efforts,” Chelsea says. “Individual golfers raise a minimum of $2,500 and our 50/50 golfers raise a minimum of $3,300. We do have a lower threshold for first-year participants, so if you are interested in joining, please reach out to us. I love meeting with people to share about what JA does and how they can support the mission through fundraising.”
Lessons and programs provided through Junior Achievement focus around JA’s core pillars of financial literacy, work and career
readiness, entrepreneurship, and ethics. Fundraising and volunteer efforts help support lessons across the state.
“We are so fortunate to be able to offer this programming to school partners at no cost to them. Our school districts and individual schools are partners. We’re grateful that they allow us to come to the schools and so we can show what is possible.”
Junior Achievement experiences are led by dedicated community volunteers, with 2,100 volunteers delivering lessons and experiences across the state. Junior Achievement can be found in 42 communities across South Dakota. Chelsea urges you to reach out and discover if JA is a part of your community or to learn how to bring it to your community.
"The real beneficiary of the fundraising efforts from events like the 100 Hole Challenge are the students. They are the ones learning from the community volunteers, and getting all this help to give them the skills and confidence they need for the future,” Chelsea says. “We like to tell our volunteers and community members that ‘Kids can’t be what they can’t see.’ So, the more we can expose them to the variety of career opportunities available to them, the more they can start to envision what their life can look like after high school. Whether it is post-secondary education, apprenticeship, entrepreneurship, or enlisting in the military, we want our students to see what their future may look like.”
To learn more about Junior Achievement of South Dakota or how to join the 100 Hole Challenge visit jasd.org.
By: ArticleCity
Whether you are looking to lower your handicap or need to find a gift for the golfer in your life, these five must-have golf accessories are sure to impress.
Golf gloves aren’t just a fashion accessory. With so many different variations of gloves on the market, these accessories are designed to help improve grip, reduce sweat, and protect your hands from the elements. The grip on your clubs will wear and slip as time goes on. This can lead to sloppy shots and improper form in your swing. If you’re after the best golf advice for improving your swing, we suggest picking up a new set of grips – and fast!
Dirty clubs can become damaged more easily. Pick up a club brush and be sure to keep your clubs clean and free of debris for a better swing and longer-lasting clubs.
or for more information contact kerrythill@gmail.com
• Season Passes
• Daily Rates
• Senior Rates Mon-Fri
• Evening Rates after 3pm (7 days a week)
• Brand New 2025 EZ-Go Carts
• Monthly Tournaments
• Weekly League on Wed
By: Sarah Grassel
One local decking company is doing more than just building outdoor spaces. They are creating places for connection, reflection, and enjoyment. DaleTree Decking was founded by Tim Schoffelman in 2020 and stands on a legacy of family, faith, and the firm belief that backyards can become your home sanctuary.
Named after Tim’s father, Dale, who passed away in 2015, the company was born from one of their final conversations. “One of the last things he told me was, ‘You should start your own business,’” Tim recalls. “It took a few years and some big life changes to get there, but in 2020, I made the leap.”
The journey to decks wasn’t always straightforward either. With decades of hands-on experience and heartfelt memories of family gatherings on backyard decks, Tim found his purpose. “Our slogan is ‘Designed to Encourage’ That’s what we’re here for—elevating a space to encourage bringing people together,” Tim says. “We even pray over our customers and our work. It’s an honor.”
One thing DaleTree customers consistently appreciate is how the company’s work goes beyond the physical product. “We’re not just building decks—we’re building spaces where people can have birthday parties, family barbecues, or just relax after a long day,” Tim adds. “That’s why we do what we do.”
Choosing the Right Deck Material
Decking has quickly become one of the most sought-
after home improvements, and for good reason. “From a return-on-investment standpoint, decks have surpassed bathroom remodels,” notes Tim. “Here in the Midwest, our outdoor season isn’t year-round, but you can enjoy your deck for 9 to 10 months out of the year.”
When it comes to choosing the right material, DaleTree offers a variety of options, each with its own benefits and considerations.
Wood (Cedar or Pressure-Treated):
Still a popular and affordable option, wood decks bring a natural charm but require the most maintenance. “Brown pressure-treated wood is great for utility spaces—like a dog run or between a garage and house,” Tim explains. “It’s also ideal for customers on a tight budget, but it will need replacing sooner.”
Composite:
A strong middle ground between wood and PVC, composite decking offers a blend of affordability and longevity. “Composite is more reasonable than most people think—especially compared to cedar,” says Tim. “It holds up well, but can get hot to the touch in full sun.”
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride):
The rising star in deck materials, PVC is quickly becoming a favorite. “It’s especially good for high-humidity, wet, or full-sun conditions,” Tim explains. “It doesn’t get as hot as composite or wood, so it’s safer for pets and kids running around barefoot.”
Contrary to what many may picture when they hear “PVC,” these decks are far from white plumbing pipes. PVC comes in the same rich color palettes—grays, browns, you name it. Some even have a raised grain texture that feels like weathered wood,” Tim shares. “And if it scratches, you can use a heat gun or even a hair dryer to blend it out.”
PVC also tends to be less slippery when wet or icy, making it a great option for families with young children or those installing decks around pools or sprinklers. Most brands, like TimberTech’s Azek and Wolf PVC, offer generous warranties when installed by certified professionals like DaleTree. “We’re certified for both. Wolf even has a seven-year labor warranty that covers board replacement.”
DALETREE.COM
Railing Options That Complete the Look
DaleTree Decking offers a variety of railing options to match any home’s aesthetic or safety needs:
• Aluminum Railings: Low-maintenance and sleek. A great match for modern decks.
• Custom Wood Railings: For homeowners who want something rustic and warm.
“Railing really sets the tone,” Tim adds. “We help customers choose what fits their lifestyle and the look of their home.”
Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy wooden landing or a high-performance PVC space that withstands the elements, DaleTree Decking offers the materials, expertise, and heart to bring your vision to life.
ENHANCE YOUR SURGICAL RESULTS
with Sciton TRL Laser Resurfacing
At Plastic Surgery Associates of South Dakota, we are committed to providing the most advanced treatments to help you achieve beautiful, long-lasting results. If you’re considering plastic surgery, adding Sciton TRL (Tunable Resurfacing Laser) deep laser resurfacing to your procedure can enhance your outcome, maximize downtime, and dramatically improve your skin’s overall quality. Whether you’re undergoing a facelift, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), or another facial rejuvenation procedure, pairing it with deep laser resurfacing can take your results to the next level!
WHAT IS SCITON TRL LASER RESURFACING?
Sciton TRL is an advanced laser technology designed to resurface the skin, stimulate collagen, and address deep wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, and skin laxity. It’s one of the most powerful laser treatments available, offering customizable depth and precision to target your unique skin concerns. Unlike other laser treatments that require multiple sessions, Sciton TRL provides dramatic results in just one treatment, making it the perfect complement to facial surgery.
WHY COMBINE DEEP LASER RESURFACING WITH SURGERY?
Adding Sciton TRL laser resurfacing to your surgical procedure offers several benefits, including:
1. Maximize Your Downtime: If you’re already taking time off to recover from surgery, why not address multiple concerns at once? By combining deep laser resurfacing with surgery, you can heal from both procedures simultaneously—reducing the need for additional downtime later.
2. Enhance Anti-Aging Results: Surgery can lift and tighten the skin, but it doesn’t address skin texture, wrinkles, or pigmentation. Deep laser resurfacing improves:
Fine lines and deep wrinkles
Sun damage and uneven skin tone
Rough texture and enlarged pores
3. Improve Surgical Results for a More Youthful Look: Surgical procedures like facelifts, neck lifts, and blepharoplasty focus on lifting and removing excess skin. However, laser resurfacing refines the skin’s surface, creating a smoother, brighter, and more youthful finish. Many patients who only have surgery eventually seek out laser treatments later. Combining both upfront ensures you achieve the best possible outcome from the start!
4. Reduce the Need for Future Treatments: Since Sciton TRL penetrates deep into the skin, results can last for years, delaying the need for additional anti-aging treatments. You’ll enjoy long-lasting improvements in skin quality and maintain your youthful glow longer.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE RECOVERY PROCESS
Since Sciton TRL is an ablative laser, there is some downtime as your skin heals. When combined with surgery, healing typically follows this timeline:
Days 1-3: Swelling, redness, and tightness (similar to a deep sunburn).
Days 4-7: Peeling and exfoliation as new skin regenerates.
Week 2: Redness fades, and skin begins to reveal a smoother, firmer texture.
Week 4-6: Continued collagen production leads to even greater improvements over time!
ACHIEVE MAXIMUM REJUVENATION AT PLASTIC SURGERY ASSOCIATES OF SOUTH DAKOTA
If you’re considering plastic surgery, maximize your results by adding Sciton TRL deep laser resurfacing to your procedure. Our expert team at Plastic Surgery Associates of South Dakota will help you create a customized treatment plan for the most natural, youthful, and refreshed appearance possible.
influencer& Content Creator
@bestdressedblonde
bestdressedblonde@gmail.com www.bestdressedblonde.com
By: Natalie Frazier
BECKY TREIBER
As she stood faithfully beside her husband during his courageous 23-month journey with ALS, Becky Treiber found strength in three profound sources: her deep, unwavering love and commitment to her husband; the foundational training she received as a nurse years ago; and above all, the extraordinary community of individuals—and the countless blessings—God brought into her life during this long season of trial. With humility and heart, Becky exemplifies what it means to endure with purpose, faith, and love.
Through it all, it was the selfless, steady presence of friends, family, and community that gave Becky the strength to honor the vows she made on her wedding day: to love in sickness and in health. Her story isn’t just one of resilience—it’s a testament to the power of collective blessings, hope and compassion in the face of unimaginable hardship.
“It was all these amazing people who held me up, and it took a village to give me the strength to get through these difficult years,” Becky shares. “If there is anything I want to bring about with this it is that people battling ALS are never alone in their fight.”
Photos By: Kate Jones Studios
Becky is the 2025 Empire Lifestyle Magazine’s newly crowned Queen For a Day winner, nominated by her daughter-in-law, Terri Treiber.
The heartfelt nomination reads: “For over 25 years, I have been blessed with the best mother and father-in-law, Ron and Becky Treiber. Over the years, they have done so much for us, our children, and many others. They were honored to be volunteers at Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls for many years and made a difference in so many lives there. In May of 2022, Ron was diagnosed with Covid and ALS. After many nights in hospitals and a nursing home, he came home on February 1, 2023. He had a trach, a feeding tube and a ventilator. For the next 23 months, Becky was his caregiver along with Avera Hospice, Home Health Care and a whole village of family and friends. During that time, they were able to celebrate the birth of two great granddaughters, attend the wedding of a granddaughter, and celebrate 60 years of marriage. On January 1, 2025, we celebrated Christmas with them. On January 2, Ron went home. Becky is now learning how to live without her life partner. For more than two years, she put her life “on hold” to give her love and care to Ron. She is very deserving to be “Queen For a Day!”
- Terri Treiber
Becky vividly recalls the moment her family’s journey with ALS quietly began—during a time of giving back. While she and her husband were volunteering together at Dougherty Hospice House, a place close to both their hearts, subtle signs of something more serious began to emerge. It was there, amid their shared commitment to comforting others, that a perceptive doctor on their team began noticing
and
the beginning
Photos Left to Right: Becky and Ron pictured with their first great-granddaughter, Jamie in October 2022; Great granddaughter, Charlie. October 2024; Great granddaughter, Kollynns, March 2024; Dr. Tyler Jared pictured with Becky. Dr. Jared walked Ron
Becky through Ron’s ALS diagnosis and was with them from
Photos Left to Right: Treiber family photo at a family wedding; “Team Thursday” that Becky and Ron volunteered with at Dougherty Hospice House; Thanksgiving 2024 photo of Becky and Ron pictured with all of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren; Becky and Ron attending granddaughter Madison’s wedding, September 2023
troubling symptoms in her husband—small changes that hinted at a deeper medical issue. Becky remains deeply grateful for that early intervention, which set them on a path toward answers, however difficult they would prove to be. In hindsight, she sees the doctor’s attentiveness as one of the first blessings in a long journey ahead.
Whether it was the unwavering support of her family and church community—offering prayers, meals, or even a simple kind text—or the dedication of countless medical professionals, Becky is deeply grateful for the village that stood by her side. From doctors and nurses to social workers and respiratory therapists, each played a vital role, not only in helping her care for her husband but also in making sure she felt confident navigating the overwhelming world of medical equipment.
“I am not the hero. These people carried me through and that is why I can’t take credit for this, I couldn’t have done it without these people,” Becky said. “Because of all that Ron and I had the opportunity to talk and share precious memories reflecting on our lives together.”
With a heart full of gratitude, Becky hopes that others can read her story and see it is not one of immense trials or sorrow but one about blessings and hope. She can look back on those 23 months now and say that she misses some of the small parts of being surrounded by people who came to her home like clockwork to help with Ron’s care.
PRESENTING
SPONSOR THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR!
By: Erica Wilcox
Summer skin is officially in! With rising temperatures and lake days lying ahead, now’s the time to tweak your current routine to suit the weather and the hottest skincare and beauty trends.
Our skin changes with the seasons, so it’s important to know how to best support it to keep skin at its healthiest. While we think of our skin being damper with the heat, don’t forget that moisturizing your skin is important all year round. Your serum and skincare lineup might change as well to support less of the dry skin (skin oils) to now more of a combination, moist skin (skin serums).
“Summer glow” is alive and well this year! It’s all about the glow! There are so many ways to achieve this from a skincare and makeup perspective. As always, the best hydration happens from the inside out. Drinking plenty of water and eating water-rich foods will keep your skin hydrated!
As we see the heat rise, it is especially important to keep up with your water intake. I think what’s even more important than water is hydrating with electrolytes. Find good quality electrolytes without the added sugar.
Our family loves Water Boy and Just Ingredients.
When thinking about your skincare routine, now is the best time to find a good day serum. A vitamin C serum is the perfect place to start. It will lighten sunspots, brighten your skin and give intense hydration for bouncy, glowy skin!
but you’ll appear more natural and youthful. It took me a while to hop onto this trend myself, but now it’s my go-to look a majority of the week!
Powders and cakey makeup look tend to make us look older with products settling into our pores and fine lines. Using a cream foundation, concealer, blush and highlighters gives you a “glassy” glow and optimal radiance. If needed, you could still use a minimal amount of setting powder on the under eyes.
me READY TO TRY THESE TRENDS?
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.
FEATURED ARTIST
This May, Rehfelds Modern in Sioux Falls will host Terrain of Memory, an evocative solo exhibition by Daniel Van Gerpen, from May 1 to 31, 2025. Known for his ability to navigate the delicate line between abstraction and representation, Daniel brings a deeply personal body of work that invites viewers into the layered terrain of memory and place.
“I have come to realize that the act of painting these landscapes is a dialogue between myself and my past,” Daniel reflects. “An attempt to capture the emotional imprint these places have left on my soul.”
Originally from South Dakota, Daniel now returns not only physically but artistically to the land that shaped him. His work doesn’t seek to document; it seeks to evoke. The rolling hills, open skies, and meandering rivers of his youth are not recreated in photographic detail. Instead, they’re filtered through time, memory, and emotion, emerging as semiabstract landscapes alive with texture and nuance.
“These semi-abstract landscapes are inspired by my home state, a place I left but have always carried within me,” Daniel explains. “While creating this collection, I felt as if I was stepping back into the texture of my own history.”
By: Sarah Grassel
“Trust the process. Even when it’s hard, when the painting is in its ‘adolescent’ stage—awkward and unresolved—keep going.”
The result is a collection of paintings that are less about geography and more about essence. Using rich color palettes, layered brushstrokes, and organic forms, Daniel captures what it feels like to stand in a place halfremembered and half-imagined. His works are meditations on time and memory, on the way landscapes not only shape us but are also reshaped by the act of remembering.
ROOTS IN ART
Daniel’s journey as an artist began long before his exhibition, back in the heart of his childhood. Growing up in South Dakota, creativity was an ever-present force in his home. His mother, a hobby artist, encouraged his artistic curiosity from a young age. “I was always drawing and creating things,” Daniel recalls. “Art was something I gravitated toward naturally, and I was fortunate to have teachers who recognized and nurtured that.”
That early encouragement grew into a lifelong pursuit. Daniel went on to study art formally at the University of South Dakota, where he began refining both his technical skill and artistic voice. But education didn’t end at graduation. Daniel remains a lifelong learner, attending workshops and engaging with mentors to continue growing. “I’m always
seeking new ways of making marks and exploring what’s possible with paint,” he says.
Beyond painting, Daniel’s creative life spills into a variety of media and methods. A professional graphic designer by day, he finds that design shares the same problem-solving nature as fine art. “To me, art is like solving a puzzle—taking an idea from conception to completion,” he explains. That blend of logic and emotion, of precision and play, is visible in the thoughtful tension within his artwork.
What distinguishes Terrain of Memory is Daniel’s command of abstraction, not as a departure from reality, but as a means to get closer to emotional truth. This isn’t nostalgia in the traditional sense. It’s not sentimental or idealized. Rather, it’s an exploration of how memory fractures and reforms what we think we know.
Daniel shares, “The blending of organic shapes and fragmented forms suggests that memory is not a clear, linear path. It is layered, shifting, and full of both clarity and abstraction.”
“The style allows me to strip away unnecessary detail,” he says. “I focus instead on the shapes, colors, and textures. The brushstrokes and layers are meant to mimic the feeling of walking through a place where past and present collide.”
This approach transforms his landscapes into internal topographies. There’s an emotional architecture to each painting: the warmth of remembered light, the ache of distance, the quiet presence of absence.
Daniel’s rise as a professional artist began with a bold, simple act: walking into a gallery. “The summer after I graduated from USD, I went into Craftsman Creek Gallery on Eighth Street and showed them my work. That became my first gallery representation,” he says. From there, he established himself further, exhibiting in California’s Monterey-Carmel region before settling in Fresno. There, he continues to create and exhibit while expanding his body of work.
Reaching out to Rehfelds Modern Fine Art and Framing last fall marked a homecoming of sorts. “It’s fun to have my art journey come full circle and to be back in South Dakota,” Daniel notes. It isn’t just a collection of artwork, though. For Daniel, Terrain of Memory is more than an exhibition. It’s a comeback story, a form of return. After years of living away from the Midwest, this work became a way to reconnect with the places that formed him, not just physically, but spiritually.
“In revisiting the landscapes of my youth, I have sought not to replicate what exists in the physical world but to evoke the essence of those places, those moments that are forever etched in my mind,” he adds.
Each canvas becomes a portal. Hills that once seemed ordinary now glow with symbolic weight; skies stretch out like forgotten dreams. There is an intimacy in the way he paints, not just the emotional charge, but the physicality of his process. His brushwork feels like an act of searching, of uncovering something buried just beneath the surface.
Daniel invites everyone to explore the familiar terrain of memory in its entirety. “Its beauty, its complexity, and its power to shape who we are,” Daniel says.
A TIMELESS TRIBUTE TO
HERLOVE
Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the incredible women who shape our lives. Show your love and appreciation with a gift as special as she is—from sentimental keepsakes to timeless treasures, Gunderson’s has the perfect piece to make her day unforgettable.
LUXURY TIMEPIECES & MORE
For a gift that lasts a lifetime, explore our selection of luxury timepieces including our new line of watches from NORQAIN—a meaningful way to celebrate time spent together. Whether she prefers a sleek, modern design or a classic watch, you’ll find an elegant option she’ll adore.
MEANINGFUL & PERSONALIZED
Initial necklaces, elegant lockets, and other sentimental jewelry make the perfect heartfelt gift. A locket allows her to carry cherished memories close, while initial pendants add a personalized touch. These pieces are timeless symbols of love she’ll treasure forever.
SHOP & SAVE DURING CUSTOMER
ELEGANT, CLASSIC ESSENTIALS
For a classic yet modern touch, consider stacking bracelets with stretch— stylish, comfortable, and perfect for layering. Or, opt for beautiful pearl earrings, a refined choice that complements any look with timeless sophistication.
From May 6-17, enjoy 20-50% off select cases, just in time to find the perfect gift for Mom! This exclusive event is also the perfect opportunity to shop for grads and dads, with savings on fine jewelry, watches, giftware, and more.
Let the professionals at Gunderson’s help you find a gift she’ll cherish—a piece that creates a memory, for a moment, for a lifetime.
