EMPIRE
A LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
A LIFE OF DISCOVERY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
KATE JONES STUDIOS
EMPIRE
CONTRIBUTORS
Account Executives
Jill Foley
712-490-8506 | jill@michelscom.com
Cory Johnsen
605-951-3567 | cory@michelscom.com
Social Media Manager & Administrative Coordinator
Jess Jervik jess@michelscom.com
graphic designer
Makenzie Jorgenson
Photography
Kate Jones Studios
katejonesstudios.com
Drift Media Co.
Mary Novak
Jordan Kaylea Photography DaleTree Decks and Outdoor Living
team of writers
Andrea Van Essen, Erica Wilcox, Lauren Johnson, Sarah Grassel, Kathryn Swanson & Duane Duimstra
Editor
Heather Jordan heather@michelscom.com
Director of Digital marketing
Cory Johnsen
605-951-3567 | cory@michelscom.com
SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR
Stace Osthus
605-261-0437 | stace@michelscom.com
chief of operations
Hanna Michels
605-760-4269 | hanna@michelscom.com
SEPTEMBER 20TH | 2–8PM
CHERAPA PLACE SIDE OF THE BIG SIOUX RIVERWALK
Celebrate summer by the river at Riverfest 2025, a free outdoor festival set along the scenic Big Sioux River. This year’s event brings everything you love — live music, delicious food, local retail vendors, and interactive activities — all with a fresh focus on sustainability and river stewardship.
Riverfest is more than just a party — it’s a platform for the community to come together, learn about the importance of protecting the Big Sioux River, and explore simple, impactful ways to support a cleaner, healthier environment.
A LIFE OF DISCOVERY
By: Andrea Van Essen | Photos By: Kate Jones Studios
Growing up in London, President José-Marie Griffiths recalls a home where education was simply part of the air she breathed. It was a setting that cultivated her passion for discovery, ultimately leading to a life of research, education and leadership. Her father was a high school math teacher, and her mother, a history enthusiast whose own teaching aspirations were disrupted by the German occupation of the Netherlands during her teenage years.
Books were a favorite mode of discovery for President Griffiths, who grew up visiting the library with her mother.
“My mother was very much into reading, but where she grew up in the Netherlands, they didn’t have an open public library system. They had public libraries, but you had to go in and request a specific book, and the librarian would get it for you,” President Griffiths explains.
“When she came to England after World War II, she discovered the local public library, and we must have gone there at least once a week,” shares President Griffiths. “The library became a wonderful place for me, in particular. I would read books by authors from different countries and steep myself in different cultures.”
Her deep interest in science was sparked around age 10, after reading the biography of Marie Curie, who discovered radium.
“That’s really what drove me to become a research scientist,” President Griffiths adds. “The idea that you could actually discover something that nobody else had discovered, something nobody else knew until you went public with it, was a fascinating thought to me. That’s what I really wanted to do.”
By her teen years, President Griffiths was one of just a few girls in her advanced physics, chemistry and math courses, eventually heading to university as one of eight or so women in her field of study.
Though she pursued a course of study in physics, President Griffiths’ curiosity wasn’t confined there. At university, she enjoyed classes on the history and philosophy of science, German language and even civil engineering.
Astronomy also held a particular fascination, dating back to summer camps she had attended as a teen on astrophysics.
“That’s not usually what people go to summer camp for, but I did. I know I had a reputation for that, because I remember, on my sixteenth or seventeenth birthday, my friends gave me the record of “The Planets” by [Gustav] Holst, the classical music series. I was obviously very, very much into astronomy and observing sunspots and what was going on and how it affected us down on Earth.”
She graduated with her degree in physics from University College in London, alongside just two other women.
“We all went on to get our Ph.D.’s at different institutions, which was interesting. I stayed at the same institution, and the other two went to different ones, but it was a tough environment because it was all male. There were more females in chemistry, but in physics and in math, there were very few,” President Griffiths notes.
After earning her Ph.D. in information science, an opportunity arose to move to the United States for a temporary one-year teaching position at the University of California, Berkeley.
“Moving to the U.S. was not on my radar at all,” she states. “This was just a temporary one-year position.”
But that year turned into much more. President Griffiths got connected to American researchers, including her late husband, statistician and information science pioneer Donald King. He wrote President Griffiths into a proposal for the Department of Energy, which resulted in her two-year assignment to that project in Washington, D.C.
“One major project leads to another and then another, and that’s how it goes in research. There’s always the next step. I was exposed to a lot of different federal funding agencies while I was in D.C., and I never left,” President Griffiths explains.
Her philosophy on leadership is simple but successful.
“First, I always want to leave everywhere better off than it was when I went in,” she adds. “And second, if you’re going to create something, you want to create something that sustains.”
Her career has included senior leadership positions at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the University of Pittsburgh, the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, and as the first chief information officer at the University of Michigan. Since 2015, she has been serving as president of Dakota State University (DSU) in Madison, South Dakota.
Across her experiences, she has witnessed some progress in terms of the tech world’s openness to women, but not enough.
“In tech, there are still relatively few women. I don’t think it’s beyond 25 percent, and we’re nowhere near 50-50 in the cybersecurity world or the AI world, and that’s a dilemma. I think that’s unfortunate,” noting that women bring a valuable perspective to tech.
“Bringing the female voice in is good, not just for the female side of things, but because women have a lot to say and can bring a lot to the table, and we’ve had some brilliant women scientists and engineers, Marie Curie among them,” President Griffiths adds.
“Women have played a role throughout the history of science and technology, but it’s often been a quiet role behind the scenes, even though the results have been spectacular.”
In her role as president of DSU, President Griffiths is leading an institution known for its focus on computer science, cybersecurity and emerging technologies. Preparing students for jobs that don’t yet exist is central to her vision.
“We always say that we’re educating people for at least four years from now. We’re not educating for the jobs that exist today,” President Griffiths affirms.
Her philosophy on leadership is simple but successful.
“First, I always want to leave everywhere better off than it was when I went in,” she adds. “And second, if you’re going to create something, you want to create something that sustains.”
“People are always surprised to see that DSU is at the table alongside Ivy League universities or elite institutions, and that’s the case I try to make, that talent is found everywhere and it should be developed everywhere,” President Griffiths shares.
Photos top to bottom: President Griffiths and her late husband, Don King; President Griffiths and her daughter, Rhiannon at Miss America in 2023; President Griffiths on a trip to Antarctica; President Griffiths as a young girl
“We shouldn’t assume that it’s only the elite universities that are doing a great job. In some respects, we may be doing a better job here in the middle of the country at smaller institutions.”
She credits DSU’s continued progress to a collective effort.
“It doesn’t happen from one person,” she states. “It does take a village.”
Though her work is a passion that often takes center stage, President Griffiths also maintains a rich personal life. She splits time between South Dakota and Rhode Island, where her daughter and son-in-law live. She’s also a grandmother, by marriage, many times over.
“I became a grandmother fairly early,” she says with a laugh. “I was shocked the first time one of my grandsons was in the back of the car and said, ‘Grandma, grandma!’ and I had to say, ‘Oh yeah, that’s me.’”
She enjoys live music, especially classical, and serves on the board of the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra and is a devoted fan of British cryptic crossword puzzles.
“It just clears my mind at the end of the day. If I want to relax, I’ll do a crossword puzzle, and then I will be calm.”
Travel is another passion that has been fueled by her career. One of her most memorable trips was to Antarctica as part of a National Science Foundation Board excursion. There, she evaluated research projects and even took a quick hop to the South Pole Station.
Yet, whether she’s traveling to the ends of the earth or leading strategic conversations at a small Midwestern university, President Griffiths approaches every experience with the same forward-thinking mindset and yearning for discovery that she nurtured as a young girl at the library in London.
President Griffiths grew up in a multilingual household. Her Dutch mother and British father spoke six languages between them, and the children grew up learning and speaking several languages as well. To this day, she says if she and her sister want to have a private conversation, they’ll speak in a sort of mixed language they have developed from Dutch, French and English with words all thrown together.
Her first name, ‘José,’ is Dutch and is pronounced “Yoh-Say.”
Though she spends most of her time in Madison, President Griffiths owns a home in Rhode Island, where her daughter and son-in-law live, and she plans to retire there someday.
In an academic leadership role, it’s hard to make the time commitment necessary for classroom teaching, but President Griffiths is currently offering a class session on international competition and cooperation in DSU’s honors program on AI.
Photos left to right: President Griffiths visiting The Washington Pavillion; President Griffiths, Secretary Noem, and good friend Julie at the Buffalo Round Up; President Griffiths and General Cy, enjoying the night at DownTown MadTown in Madison; President Griffiths and daughter Rhiannon at the SD Hall of Fame Banquet. President Griffiths was inducted in 2023
At Mitchell Technical College, we offer more than 35 high-demand, high-tech programs designed to give you the best hands-on education out there.
If you want to get ready for a great career, you’ve got to work for it, learn by doing, push your limits, and apply your skills in the real world. That’s what we do every day.
Our mission is simple: prepare you for a skilled, successful career. Recognized as one of the top performing technical colleges in the nation, we offer an experience that checks every box: cutting edge programs, expert and experienced instructors, real-world training, and outstanding value.
Visit us in person or online—and see how you can get ready at Mitchell Tech.
Scan to apply online.
Self-Care Isn't Extra Credit.
It's Essential!
Between school drop-offs, soccer games, appointments, and a never-ending to-do list, it’s easy for moms to put their needs last. But here’s the truth we want every mom to hear loud and clear: You matter. Your confidence matters. And your self-care is not extra—it’s essential. At Plastic Surgery Associates of South Dakota, we believe that every mom deserves to feel strong, confident, and at home in her body. That’s why so many women turn to a Mommy Makeover— not as an act of vanity, but as an empowering step toward self-love.
MOTHERHOOD CHANGES EVERYTHING, INCLUDING YOUR BODY
Pregnancy, childbirth, and years of child-rearing can leave lasting changes to your body. You may be dealing with:
Loose abdominal skin or separated muscles (diastasis recti)
Volume loss or sagging in the breasts
Stubborn fat in areas that don’ t respond to diet and exercise
A body that feels unfamiliar, no matter how hard you try to “bounce back”
These changes are normal—and you’re not alone in feeling frustrated or disconnected from your reflection.
A MOMMY MAKEOVER IS ABOUT YOU
A Mommy Makeover is a fully customized combination of procedures designed to help restore your body and renew your confidence. It often includes:
Tummy Tuck to tighten and smooth the midsection
Breast Lift and/or Augmentation to restore shape and volume
Liposuction to contour areas like the flanks, hips, or thighs
But more than just a physical transformation, a Mommy Makeover is about reconnecting with the version of yourself that feels vibrant, empowered, and whole.
LET GO OF THE GUILT
We hear it all the time, “I feel selfish for wanting surgery. I should just be grateful for what my body has done. I can’t justify spending this time or money on myself.” Here’s the truth: Self-care is not selfish. Prioritizing your confidence, well-being, and happiness makes you a better partner, parent, and person. You’re not taking away from your family—you’re giving them the best version of you!
READY TO FEEL LIKE YOU AGAIN?
At Plastic Surgery Associates of South Dakota, we’re here to guide you with compassion, expertise, and understanding. During your consultation, we’ll talk through your goals and create a plan tailored to your lifestyle and body. Let this be the season you say yes to you. You’ve spent years showing up for everyone else, isn’t it time you showed up for yourself?
A Mommy Makeover isn’t about changing who you are—it’s about celebrating everything you’ve been through and giving yourself permission to feel amazing again.
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward rediscovering your confidence. Because self-care isn’t extra credit. it’s essential.
MEALS FROM THE HEART
Who? Local organizations such as businesses, church organizations, and social clubs.
Use our kitchens to prepare home-cooked meals for the families staying at the Ronald McDonald House.
You choose the day and the meal you want to prepare. Shop for the ingredients. Come to the house and prepare your meal. Breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Want to learn more? Call Samantha at 605.336.6398 ext. 8 or email samantha@rmhcsodak.org.
You are invited to utilize the Ronald McDonald House kitchen to prepare homecooked meals for the families staying there during their child’s hospitalization.
You can choose the day and the meal you want to prepare. Once you decide, you can then shop for ingredients, bring them to the House and prepare a meal made with love!
RMH relies on generous volunteers to prepare meals for guest families through the Meals from the Heart program. Whether it’s a hot breakfast/brunch or dinner following a long day at the hospital, these meals not only provide nourishment, they provide strength and comfort so families can be prepared for what’s ahead. There are multiple ways to participate in this program and scheduling is easy through our volunteer link.
So, gather a group of friends, some family members, co-workers, or neighbors and volunteer! Both the 24th Street House near Avera and the Lake Avenue House near Sanford have dozens of families who appreciate these warm, home-cooked meals daily. We need you to help make this happen!
5 WAYS YOU CAN HELP RMHC SOUTH DAKOTA
By: Lauren Johnson
Teammates and friends remember Alex Kummer for his quiet leadership, lightning speed, and his ability to lift spirits with laughter. He was caring, loyal, and an amazing friend, qualities that defined him on the baseball field, at home, and in the community.
"Alex was the child who could give the biggest bear hugs since he was little with his chubby little hands," mom Stefanie Kummer says. "Even at six feet tall, he would come and give me the same bear hug, so gentle, kind, and sincere. He was a junior in high school taking college-level courses with a GPA above 4.0. His goal was to attend Augustana University to become an anesthesiologist."
Nothing prepared Robert and Stefanie Kummer for the day they lost Alex to suicide.
"I'm always his mom and love being his mom, even though I have to do it differently now. I never imagined I'd have to mother him this way."
After Alex passed, many friends told Robert and Stefanie that he was their best friend.
"Alex was funny," Stefanie says. "We could hear him when hanging out with friends, and he had an awesome belly laugh. I can still hear it. I can turn my ears a certain way and say, yeah, there's his laugh."
Stefanie shares that Alex was so good to people. "Our younger daughter, Maddie, would say he's so patient as he would teach her to do things. He was that brother. Our older son, Kayden, loved his little brother. I know Kayden wishes he could've been more like Alex, and his little brother looked up to him and wished he could be more like him. It worked both ways."
Photography By: Jordan Kaylea Photography
Alex taught his parents and family so much when he came home from school. "He's still teaching me today. My husband and I both said, 'I wish I could be more like him.' He didn't complain. If he had to do chores, he was the kid who got it done. He was just perfect. Perfection as a mental health issue is very real, and it's very hard on people when they're not perfect."
Robert and Stefanie probed for answers and explanations for what happened, but found none. "None of his friends or their parents saw anything, and we all know each other. I asked parents and teachers, 'Did you see anything?' The answer was always no. My husband and I look back now, and there weren't any glaring signs in front of us. But I think as a parent, our brains simply can't go there and fathom that it's possible. We didn't see it coming. It was just one day."
"When we lost Alex, it was a huge shock for us," Stefanie says. "We had no clues and no idea that he was struggling with anything until the day it happened. Having worked in healthcare, I saw so many accidents and all the things you see there, but we never imagined that this was something possible. Alex had a great group of friends and had just been hanging out with them the weekend prior. And as I sat there literally on my bathroom floor crying, I looked up and asked, 'God, what do I do with this?' I just don't lose my son and not do anything about it."
As time went on, the Kummer family established the Alex Kummer Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to honor Alex's life and promote suicide awareness and prevention.
In May, the community gathered for the 4th annual Alex Kummer Memorial Baseball Tournament. During the opening ceremony, the family shares Alex's story to remind everyone of life's value and to raise suicide prevention awareness.
Each year at the tournament, a South Dakota senior receives the Alex Kummer Scholarship, based on answers to a wide range of questions, including GPA, college plans, volunteer efforts, honors, how the scholarship benefits them, how they'd help a friend who was struggling, and what #bealexkind means to them. This year, 21 seniors applied.
"We had two great applications this year, so we awarded a second scholarship for the first time. Eli Detert was awarded our annual scholarship for $3,000, and Nicholas DeSchepper was our second winner and was awarded $1,500," Stefanie adds.
The Alex Kummer Foundation is able to provide community support and raise awareness through the generous donations received from friends, family, community associations, and businesses.
Above all, Stefanie wants others to remember that Alex was kind, and his kindness continues to ripple through every life he touched. #bealexkind
IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS STRUGGLING WITH THEIR MENTAL HEALTH OR HAVING THOUGHTS OF SUICIDE, PLEASE CALL OR TEXT 988.
SCAN TO VIEW RESOURCES PAGE
By: Sarah Grassel
When Tim Schoffelman launched DaleTree Decks and Outdoor Lighting, they weren’t just starting a business, they were answering a deeper calling. “When my dad passed away, I realized how many of our best memories happened out on the deck,” Tim shares. “That shaped everything. I wanted to create spaces where people could feel encouraged. Safe places for families to gather, unwind, and build their own moments.”
That philosophy, designed to encourage, has guided DaleTree from the start, transforming ordinary outdoor spaces into meaningful family gathering places. A recent deck transformation project in Sioux Falls perfectly demonstrates how Tim’s mission comes to life through thoughtful craftsmanship and genuine care.
The homeowners, a young family with legitimate safety concerns, approached DaleTree. Their existing deck was aging and felt increasingly unstable, especially with children playing nearby. “They wanted something that felt solid and lasting,” Tim explains. “They also wanted a space they could actually enjoy at night, something that would feel like a true extension of their living area.”
Most DaleTree projects begin with a simple phone call. “A lot of people find us through our website or referrals, and we always encourage them to just call,” Tim explains. “Most of the time, we can answer tons of questions right away. From size and features to what the project might cost, we have a general idea. Then, if it feels like a good fit, we set up an in-person site visit to walk through the details and talk materials.”
Photography By: Drift Media Co. & DaleTree
For this particular project, the original deck needed more than just a facelift. The team discovered failing footings beneath the attached four-season room, requiring foundation reinforcement before any aesthetic improvements could begin. This attention to structural integrity reflects DaleTree’s commitment to building spaces that truly last.
With the foundation secure, the team rebuilt the deck using premium 50-year warranty boards and custom railings. The special-order railing color required patience with a 10 to 12-week wait, but the refined finish proved well worth the extended timeline. The completed 344-square-foot deck took just over two weeks to build once materials arrived.
One of the project’s standout features was the integrated lighting system. DaleTree added lights to each stair tread and modified the post caps so light
could cascade gently downward. “That detail made a huge difference,” Tim says. “It’s functional for safety, sure, but it also creates a really beautiful atmosphere. It invites you out in the evenings.”
What sets DaleTree apart isn’t just craftsmanship, it’s how they care for people throughout the entire process and beyond. “We overbuild because we want it to last,” Tim emphasizes. “We pay attention to every detail. We also pray for our customers every single week. You’re not just a job on the schedule; you’re part of the story.”
This mindset continues long after construction ends. DaleTree registers all product warranties on behalf of clients and remains available for ongoing support. “Too many people have a contractor disappear after the job’s done,” Tim notes. “We’re committed to being different. We stay involved.”
Decking with DaleTree is an easy five-step process. It begins with a free consultation and estimate over the phone, followed by an on-site visit for precise measurements and material discussions. The third step involves logistics, including invoicing, payment plans, and permitting, with Tim’s expert team handling all permit requirements and city approvals.
After permits are approved, materials are ordered, and construction begins. Most projects take one to two weeks, though larger undertakings can extend longer. Tim recalls one particularly ambitious project, stating, “One took two-and-a-half months because it was a three-foot-high, 1,100-square-foot deck.”
The final step includes an official walkthrough and warranty registration, ensuring every detail meets DaleTree’s exacting standards.
From custom decks and pergolas to outdoor heaters, lighting, and bug screens, DaleTree brings the same care and craftsmanship to every outdoor living space
they design. “We’ve had people go with cheaper contractors, and then they come back,” Tim observes. “It’s not just about price. It’s about the quality of the work, the customer experience, and the relationship.”
For families dreaming of safer, more beautiful outdoor spaces, DaleTree offers something beyond typical construction services. “We’re not just building decks,” Tim concludes. “We’re building spaces for life to happen.”
To learn more about transforming your outdoor space, contact Tim and his team at DaleTree at 605-549-1188.
ASSISTED LIVING WEEK
Ageless Adventure
This year’s National Assisted Living Week theme, Ageless Adventure, celebrates the boundless spirit, curiosity, and joy that thrive at every stage of life. It’s a reminder that growing older doesn’t mean slowing down—it means embracing new experiences, rediscovering passions, and continuing life’s journey with purpose and excitement.
At StoneyBrook Suites, Ageless Adventure comes to life through meaningful connections, engaging activities, and a community that supports residents in living each day to the fullest. Whether it’s trying something new, sharing stories, or simply laughing with friends, every moment is an opportunity for adventure—no matter your age.
Because
your
loved
one
deserves more than care - they deserve a life that’s sweet.
Life is Sweet in StoneyBrook Suites!
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
Our passion for assisted living shines through every day at StoneyBrook Suites.
If
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.
Schedule a tour and see the quality of life available to you or your loved one.
By: Kathryn Swanson, Financial Advisor
A variety of questions arise regarding financial planning for small business owners. Small business owners typically start their company based on their areas of expertise and quickly find themselves bogged down with figuring out finances, HR responsibilities, accounting, and other headaches that take time away from their skills and business purpose. Instead of questioning if you are doing the right thing, find peace of mind through educating yourself and getting a professional opinion. As an independent, locally owned business in Sioux Falls, we have both expert advice and practical solutions. If you own a small business and are tired of the guesswork and research involved in figuring out financial solutions, read on!
RETIREMENT PLANS
Retirement plans are a main concern for small business owners across many industry sectors. There are a variety of account types that can work for you depending on your business’s setup.
A SEP IRA or Simplified Employee Pension Individual Retirement Account allows for a higher contribution limit than a traditional IRA. SEPs allow personal contributions and an employer contribution. While SEPs work well to allow a high-income owner to defer large amounts, these accounts require contributions on behalf of all
employees, making them an unpopular solution as a company increases its employees.
SIMPLE IRAs or a Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees are, as the name suggests, a simpler solution to employee retirement savings as compared to a 401(k). Simple IRAs provide a way for both the employer and employees to contribute funds toward a tax-deferred retirement account. Unlike a 401(k), where employers can match a discretionary percentage, a Simple IRA match is defaulted to 3%. Simple IRAs typically cost less to administer than a 401(k) and have less plan testing and reporting.
401(k)s are a good solution for those looking to contribute more funds towards retirement, as they allow higher contribution limits compared to a SIMPLE IRA. These plans are costly to administer, but for larger companies, the flexibility of these plans may be worth the increased cost.
INSURANCE
Another common question business owners have is about life insurance. Especially for partner-owned businesses, owners wonder what would happen should their partner pass away. Life insurance is an effective way to mitigate some of the risk involved in owning a business with a partner. Buying life insurance on your partner can provide the funds necessary to purchase their interest in the company. Using a buy-sell legal agreement with life insurance to fund a buyout is an effective contingency plan. The type and amount of life insurance necessary depend on the goals and cash flow of the company.
Disability insurance is another insurance decision that businesses face. Disability insurance can be complex, but using a group rate for a company can lower the cost for both employers and employees.
PLAN BEYOND THE BOTTOM LINE
Whether you are exploring entrepreneurship for the first time or have had your own business for a while, there are new ideas and issues on ways to manage planning financially for owners and employees. From complex issues like managing a 401(k) for large companies, investment management for nonprofit trust accounts, to smaller-scale solutions such as increased returns on business savings, we help small businesses plan for a big future.
1. www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-sponsor/simple-ira-plan
MORE ABOUT KATHRYN SWANSON
The key lies in creating a tailored approach that matches your unique goals and circumstances, ensuring your financial plan evolves alongside your family’s changing needs.
Finances, economics, and investing have fascinated me since my very first Econ 101 class. Over time, I discovered how overwhelming these topics can feel for many people and recognized the critical importance of having someone walk alongside you in your financial journey.
My passion for helping others understand their financial picture and reduce financial stress drives my work as a financial advisor. I genuinely enjoy collaborating with clients to make educated, confident financial decisions that align with their life goals. Recently, I passed the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® exam, an integral step toward becoming a CFP® Professional, representing the highest standard in financial planning.
I’d be honored to partner with you as you work toward your financial goals. Reach out today to discuss how to prioritize savings goals and create a comprehensive financial plan that transforms your family’s future.
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 its 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.
By: Duane Duimstra, Sioux
VA Public Affairs Officer
The Mobile Prosthetic and Orthotic Care (MoPOC) mobile lab has transformed how Veterans receive specialized care since arriving at the Sioux Falls VA Health Care System in 2023. This custom-built vehicle serves as a key tool to bring essential prosthetic and orthotic services to Veterans closer to their homes.
VA Prosthetist-Orthotist Jillian Hitchcock, CPO, operates this innovative mobile lab, traveling thousands of miles each year to deliver high-quality care where Veterans need it most. Her work exemplifies the VA’s commitment to eliminating barriers that prevent Veterans from accessing specialized medical services.
Arthur Behnke’s story illustrates the profound impact of mobile care. The U.S. Navy Veteran, who served from 1967 to 1971, lost his leg in a farm accident. Since then, the Sioux Falls VA has provided him with both a mechanical and a computer-controlled prosthetic leg.
Prosthetic devices require regular maintenance and adjustments to function properly. Daily wear creates issues that demand professional attention to maintain comfort and
proper fit. Previously, Arthur faced a challenging journey of over 100 miles to reach the Sioux Falls facility for these essential services.
Now, Ms. Hitchcock makes weekly visits to the Spirit Lake Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), located just 40 miles from Arthur’s home. This significant reduction in travel distance has transformed his healthcare experience.
“It saves me traveling and sitting in my car for over two hours when I need adjustments,” says Arthur.
The MoPOC program, funded by the VHA Office of Rural Health, provides a variety of benefits for Veterans like Arthur. The program adds a dedicated Prosthetist-Orthotist, an administrative support staff position, and an all-wheel-drive mobile laboratory equipped with spare parts, power tools, hand tools, and specialized equipment to facilitate comprehensive prosthetic and orthotic adjustments.
Ben Fortson, Sioux Falls VA Health Care System Orthotic Prosthetic and Pedorthic Clinical Services chief, emphasizes
Falls
the
“It
Every mile the MoPOC van has covered has been worth it to provide the care Veterans, like Arthur, deserve.
“Working with Ben, Jillian, and the rest of the VA staff has been great because they always make sure that I have everything I need,” says Arthur. “Not driving the extra miles is just a bonus.”
ORH Funding Acknowledgement
Statement: This work was funded by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, Office of Rural Health, NOMAD #PROJFY- 009906. The contents do not represent the views of the Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States Government.
By: Lauren Johnson | Photos By: Drift Media Co.
With a passion for authentic Buffalo wings and a dream to share them with the Sioux Falls community, the owners of Atomic Wings in Sioux Falls celebrated their successful first anniversary in July at their E. 69th Street location.
With fall and football season underway, fans are sure to love Atomic Wings on game day. “It’s so good,” says co-owner Stefanie Engelstad. “We only cook with jumbo, fresh, juicy, tender chicken that’s also antibiotic and hormone-free. Our chicken is full of flavor with a variety of sauces that will satisfy everyone from the kids to your parents to everyone in between. When people hear ‘atomic,’ they think of heat, but we bring the heat and the sweet for everyone.”
Stefanie and her husband, Eric, began their journey to bring Atomic Wings to Sioux Falls when they were first approached about the brand. With Eric’s background in restaurant franchising and Stefanie’s experience in corporate banking and business development, it seemed like the right time to join forces as a couple. But to genuinely believe in it, they knew they had to experience the food themselves.
to be absolutely certain, so we made a trip to New York City to meet the CEO. Every single time, the food was beyond phenomenal, and we believed that Atomic Wings was something special, and something the Sioux Falls market was missing,” Stefanie shares.
Conversations with CEO Zak Omar further solidified the couple’s decision to buy the franchise. “His vision for the franchise and his belief that the franchisees came first allowed us to believe that he would support us along the way. And he has been true to his word. We officially signed on in 2023 and opened our Sioux Falls location in July 2024.” Eric and Stefanie, along with partner and co-owner Aaron Neiman, were ready to bring the flavor to Sioux Falls in a big way.
“We traveled to Texas, not just once, but twice, to sample the menu and see if it lived up to the hype, and we were pretty sold. But we wanted
In addition to being franchisees, Stefanie and Eric also serve as area representatives for North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Iowa. “This means we help guide and support new franchisees as they open their own locations in these regions. We’re thrilled that our first franchise opened a second Sioux Falls location at 3217 Sertoma Avenue over the Fourth of July weekend, with more plans for growth in the future,” Stefanie notes.
The boneless wings are a customer favorite, and while many may recognize the names of the sauces, Stefanie emphasizes that until you’ve tasted them at Atomic Wings, you haven’t experienced flavor like
this. Both Sioux Falls locations also offer beer for the perfect pairing. “At our 69th and Cliff location, guests enjoy the ‘Pour My Beer’ station, where you can refill your own beer and pay by the ounce. The Sertoma location features a unique ‘bottoms-up’ draft system where you simply place your frosted glass on the tap, and the beer fills from the bottom, ensuring the perfect pour every time with less foam.”
Atomic Wings is a simple yet vibrant concept you won’t want to miss this fall and football season. “It’s not a big menu, but it highlights freshness and variety,” Stefanie explains. “Each morning, we hand-cut and season our fries, a must-try side. Our chicken is hand-breaded and fresh-cut in-restaurant, cooked per order, and sauced with one of our proprietary sauces.” Made-from-scratch ranch, blue cheese, and aioli are ready for dipping. “Dipping the waffle fries in the aioli sauce is what got me. Our customers rave about our mozzarella sticks, crispy fried pickles, and the indulgent fried Oreos served with Nutella,” Stefanie shares.
Stefanie and Eric ask that you also keep your eyes open for the wing-eating contest coming soon to benefit the Alex Kummer Foundation. “I am passionate about supporting charities that pull at my heartstrings. But I want to go the extra mile for this fundraiser to support my friends, Robert and Stefanie Kummer, whose son tragically took his own life. We want to support their efforts and all the work they’ve done to support their son’s memory and raise awareness about teen suicide. That’s why I cannot fail.”
Stefanie hopes to involve NFL football players and local talent to create a new dynamic around the contest. For more information, visit the webiste at www.atomicwings.com/locations/sioux-falls-sd.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4TH from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Canopy by Hilton Sioux Falls Downtown, 120 E. 4th Pl., Sioux Falls, SD 57104
Sizes: Tops, Jackets, Dresses: XS-3XL Jeans & Bottoms: 2-18 Shoes: 6-11 (1/2 sizes included) Home Décor in all seasons
Vendors:
Canopy by Hilton Sioux Falls Downtown Bloom in Color Co. Color Analysis Crunchi Skincare & Makeup Jane Lee Permanent Jewelry
Photo By: Mary Novak
We are excited to announce that, back by popular demand, we will be having our Sioux Empire Fall Closet sale! This sale is going to be bigger and better than ever! First, if you’re new to this local event, it’s a rare chance to shop the closets of local influencers and socialites in the community. All the ladies agree that their industries; influencing, event planning, modeling, and entrepreneurship bring them more clothing, shoes, decor and accessories than the average consumer. Trends are constantly changing, as are the seasons, so it is an opportunity for these ladies to make room in their closets and homes for more new and upcoming trends to share with their followers. With each sale the selection and the quantity of everything gets a little bigger! At this event you’ll be able to shop for clothing, shoes, jewelry, home décor, handbags and more! Many of which are brand new or barely worn.
We’ll have clothes from all four seasons in a wide variety
of sizes. Some of the brands featured are Lululemon, Abercrombie, H&M, Zara, Madewell, SPANX and so much more!
We are thrilled to share that we have a brand new, dreamy location for this event, Canopy by Hilton Sioux Falls Downtown! The hotel is in the heart of The Steel District and offers a vibrant, locally inspired stay just steps from Falls Park and the best of downtown. This thoughtfully designed hotel features 214 modern guestrooms and 12 flexible meeting rooms, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Guests can enjoy locally roasted coffee and breakfast bites at Torrent Coffee Bar or wind down with handcrafted Italian dishes and cocktails at Cascata. Whether you’re exploring the city or hosting an event, Canopy by Hilton Sioux Falls Downtown delivers an authentic, elevated experience. If you haven’t been yet, the entire Steel District is a site to see!
MEET AND FOLLOW THE HOSTS:
By: Lauren Johnson
For 15 years, Maurice “Mo” Miller has been conducting Black Hills Paranormal Investigations (BHPI) at the Historic Adams House in Deadwood, SD, built in 1892, searching for evidence of the unexplained. His fascination with the paranormal began in childhood, inspired by his mother and grandmother’s interest in ghost lore. Today, Mo balances his paranormal passion with military service, sign-studio design work, and golf.
Essential Gear for Ghost Hunting
Every BHPI investigator brings at least a digital audio recorder and flashlight. Beyond these basics, Mo’s “must haves” include:
• Thermal IR Camera: Captures heat signatures invisible to the naked eye.
• Periscopes: Floor-mounted devices that detect static (tribo-electric) fields. When a spirit disturbs the charge, LEDs trace its path in 360°.
• Paranormal Music Box: Emits a continuous beam any break, triggers an eerie melody, signaling movement.
• REM Pods: Monitor proximity and temperature. Temperature changes or nearby presences set off distinct alarms.
• Flex2 Yes/No Prism: Flashes green or red to answer direct questions.
• Digital Dowsing Rods: Illuminate when spirits are near, perfect for nighttime sessions.
• EMF Meters (K2 & MEL Meters): Measure electromagnetic fields and temperature. Alarms escalate as readings rise.
• Laser Grids - Project dots in rooms or checkerboard patterns in hallways. Shadows or figures disrupt the grid, marking their route.
• DeadBell: A bell that rings manually or via EMF triggers is proof that something or someone has passed through.
“In the Adams House, any reaction from our equipment happens live, alongside our guests,” Mo explains. “It’s that simultaneous experience, the public witnessing our reactive equipment, that lends real credence to our findings.”
Compelling Evidence from Adams House
Mo and the BHPI team have amassed plenty of eerie encounters at the Historic Adams House in Deadwood:
EVPs and Disembodied Voices
• During an investigation in the master bedroom, Mo sent Rose Speirs of Deadwood History to check a noise, and an EVP captured an elderly woman asking, “Where is Rose going?” recognizing DHI manager, Rose Speirs, by name.
• The attic “smoking room” was ravaged by fire when the Franklins owned it. While in Mary’s bedroom below the attic, an EVP caught a female clearly screaming, “Fire!” Historical records confirmed the blaze above that very spot.
Unexplained Visuals
• While monitoring eight cable-linked cameras throughout the house from the gift shop, four team members saw a shadow glide past the bedrooms. The mysterious figure reflected on the floor, but the DVR footage remains unrecoverable.
• In the dining room, Mo’s former BHPI team member
Mark looked through the double doors to the library and saw a figure rising from the library desk. Mark asked, “Mo, is that you?” but when Mo rushed in from the music room, the apparition had vanished.
Phantom Photographs
After an investigation, two visitors went outside and snapped some selfies with the now-closed balcony in the background. They ran back inside and showed Mo their pic of a man and child standing up on the balcony.
Direct Q&A with Spirits
During a focused EVP session in Mr. Adams’s bedroom that has two twin beds, Mo asked, “Which bed did you die on?”
A clear voice answered, “The left.” All tour guests heard it.
Physical Interactions and Animal Sounds
• Guests have felt something brush against their legs in the library, thought to be Franklin’s big, woolly dog Major, who was killed outside the home.
• A disembodied cat’s meow echoed in the same room, though no feline is known to have lived there.
The October ‘Deliverance’
One October night, negative energy overwhelmed a investigation group where Mo says they all became angry for no reason. Then the Parascopes, DeadBell, and music box all activated at the same time. This remains BHPIs only full-blown “deliverance” event.
“Spirits at the Adams House seem to recognize us and our visits,” Mo says. “They’re most active and interact with us frequently during the first two weekends of October, but then they quiet down and get tired by the third.”
Guided paranormal investigations are available the first three weekends in October at 6 pm, 7:30 pm, 9 pm, and 10:30pm at the Historic Adams House. For reservations, www.deadwoodhistory.com.
Discover more at www.deadwood.com (605) 578-1876
Spirited Adventures: Deadwood’s Ghost Tours
Historic Bullock Hotel Ghost Tours Friday and Saturday tours, 5pm, kids welcome. No reservations needed, arrive at the front desk by 4:30pm, $20 per person, 90+ minutes.
Historic Fairmont Hotel Ghost Tours at A&B Pizza Nightly tours, $25 per person, sign up by 8pm. Tours start at 8:30pm.
Haunted History Walking Ghost Tour
Schedule your time and date. Call (605) 641-2299 for a reservation. True stories of murder, violence and hauntings.
If you ask Tom Mulholland what makes the Lake Area Technical College business and marketing program special, his answer is refreshingly honest. As the department supervisor, he states, “We teach from experience, not just textbooks.”
BUILDING TOMORROW’S INDUSTRY LEADERS AT LATC
Written by: Sarah Grassel
Tom is a self described outdoor enthusiast who didn’t follow a traditional path to the classroom. Before joining LATC, he spent years traveling the country managing The Bodies Human traveling museum exhibit, where he handled everything from staff training and marketing strategy to contract negotiations and media appearances.
That real world experience? It’s now the foundation of how he teaches and why his students thrive.
LATC consistently ranks among one of the top two year colleges in the nation. Tom credits this to a culture of staying on top of industry trends, thanks to a supportive administration and strong relationships with local businesses.
“We’re encouraged to research, network, and keep learning ourselves,” Tom adds. “Our advisory boards are made up of real industry professionals who help us shape the curriculum to stay aligned with what employers actually need.”
At its core, LATC’s business program is built around preparing students to enter the workforce confidently and competently with specialized skills in areas like marketing, sales, HR, photography/media, and entrepreneurship.
Tom puts it into perspective, “If a student walks into a job interview and says, ‘I took a test on that,’ it doesn’t mean much. But if they can say, ‘I’ve done that,’ and actually show it? That’s a game changer.”
Students
don’t just learn theory, they do the work.
From creating marketing campaigns for local businesses to pitching products to real world entrepreneurs in a “Shark Tank” style setting, students are actively applying their skills. Many even launch their own businesses before graduation.
This practical approach means students graduate with a portfolio that shows what they can do, not just what they know. Because they’ve worked with actual business partners throughout the program, many already have professional connections before they walk across the stage.
Despite high demand and national recognition, LATC keeps class sizes small. “We take pride in getting to know our students,” Tom smiles. “They know we have their best interests in mind. We’re here to challenge them and help them grow both professionally and personally.”
For Tom, that’s what makes it worth it. “I love what I do,” he says. “Watching students discover what they’re capable of and step into it; that’s the best part of my job.”
The results speak for themselves. LATC boasts one of the highest retention and job placement rates in the country.
“They come in unsure of their path,” Tom says, “but they leave saying, ‘Put me in, coach, I’m made for this.’ That’s what we’re all about.”
The business program offers several tracks from marketing and sales to entrepreneurship, HR, and photography/media. Every student starts with foundation courses like accounting, personal finance, social media marketing, and business fundamentals.
“Our advisory boards told us loud and clear that every business student needs to understand the basics, even if it’s not their specialty,” Tom explains. “You might not be the one doing the books, but you better know if they’re being done right.”
Tom says, “You can have the greatest product or service in the world, but if you don’t know how to get the word out? You’re sunk. So we teach them how to market it. And just as important, how to believe in it.”
Many of LATC’s alumni return not just as guest speakers, but as business owners looking to hire from the same program that helped shape them. Tom proudly shares, “We get calls every week from businesses asking if we’ve got anyone graduating soon. That tells you a lot. They know our students are prepared, hungry, and ready to work.”
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