December 2009

PDJD]LQH Rapper Trey Lane Local Favorite Gets Ready To Drop His Fourth Album

December 2009 Vol. 1 Issue 12

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SVHP-0750 11/09

CONTENTS

2009

december

6 December Contributors 8

Credits

Reviews and Recommendations 10

December Event Calendar

“You say you’re from Sioux Falls, and they’re like, ‘where’s that on the map?’”

- Sioux Falls MC Trey Lane (born Anthony Withers). Image by Studio Blu Photography.

12

A Taste of Sarcasm: Señor Wieners

14 Get Involved: The Angel Giving Tree 15

Beyond Borders: Book Reviews

16

Profiles in Sound: The Aquila Band, The Kickback, Snakebeard Jackson and more...

Life, Love and Laughter 20

Why Don’t Ya Do Somethin’?: Dance Lessons

22

COVER: Trey Lane

26

The Scoop: Cheap, But Meaningful Gifts

28 The Real Deal: Jarrod Barton 29

Ask the Johns

30 He Said, She Said...

22

09 9

32 In the Matter of Nick Kotzea...

42

28

34 Crafty Fun: A Budget Holiday Party 35 Extended Relief: Why You Should Buy a House Now 36 Reistroffer Design Presents: Catching Santa 40 Quiz: Is It Time To End Things?

Fashion and Beauty 41 What’s Boss/Get Lost 42 Fashion: Gifts on a Dime

9

12

20

Fitness and Health 46 You’re Allergic to What?: Celiac Disease

Poll of the Month

48 Belly Up!

We’re overdue for a new Web site, what would you like us to upgrade or change?

Add merchandise page

Rework/upgrade the blog

2.8% 5.5%

16.7% Add video content

34

50% Everything that was mentioned 25% Add web-only content, photos and stories

4

CONTENTS I 605 MAGAZINE

C Check our official Web site for next W month’s poll and m be part of the next b iissue!

2

CONTRIBUTORS

605

Rachel Palmer - Writer Rachel grew up near the Black Hills in Rapid City and is a South Dakota native. She is currently attending the University of South Dakota and is in the process of earning a degree in English Education with a minor in Music. As cliché as it may sound, Rachel has a passion for reading and writing—creative writing in particular. She enjoys tutoring students at Vermillion Middle School and volunteering at the W.H. Over Museum. For fun, Rachel loves to go on “road trips” and see her favorite bands and musicians live.

In the future, Rachel hopes to become a secondary English teacher and keep herself busy as a freelance writer.

This month Rachel profiles David Tritel, an expert dancer and owner of The Swing Experience.

Whitni Ciofalo - Writer Whitni is a senior chemistry and Spanish major at Bucknell University. She grew up in Sioux Falls and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 2006. In addition to time spent in the classroom, Whitni rides on her college equestrian team and writes for a progressive campus paper. Her favorite means of procrastination include rummaging through boxes of old vinyl records, playing fetch with her roommate’s new kitten, perfecting her hummus-making skills, and pretending to be a beer connoisseur. Her ideal weekend would be spent with all of life’s necessities packed on her back while taking a nice stroll into nature’s finer corners. Oh, and she is always down for a nice cup of tea and a thought provoking discussion on life, politics and human interactions.

Whitni checks out the alluring and physically beneficial art of belly dancing.

Sabina Mustic - Writer Sabina graduated from the University of South Dakota in May 2008 with a B.A. in English and German.

She enjoys writing because it gives her satisfaction when she knows she worked hard and created something worth reading. Some of Sabina’s hobbies include reading, spending time with family and friends, traveling, and shopping. Sabina plans to attend graduate school sometime in the near future to get a Master’s degree in Library Science.

Check out Sabina’s article on facts of celiac disease.

Denise DePaolo - Writer Denise is from Sioux Falls and graduated from Washington High School in 2001. Since then she has lived in Gainesville, FL and traveled extensively. She and her husband Tony moved back to Sioux Falls in 2008. She is finishing up her English degree at the University of South Dakota and works as a bartender on weekends. Denise hopes to one day write for a living, but making drinks is a pretty cool job for now. She like adventures, jokes and going to punk rock shows.

Denise sits down local MC Trey Lane.

Brittney Hansen - Writer Brittney Hansen recently received her BA in Mass Communications with an emphasis in journalism from Minnesota State University, Mankato. In January 2009 she received a Minnesota Newspaper Association Award for Arts and Entertainment Reporting. She is currently freelancing for a variety of publications and trying to find a “real” job.

Brittney reveals how give meaningful gifts under a budget in The Scoop.

Danielle Jaeger - Writer Danielle is 20 years old and grew up in Sioux Falls, SD. She is currently in her third year at MSU in Mankato, MN, pursuing a major in Journalism with a minor in Creative Writing. Danielle hopes to one day work as a columnist at a prestigious magazine or newspaper, write her own novel and travel as much as possible. In her spare time, Danielle enjoys spending time with her boyfriend, friends, family, and her four dogs. She also has a deep love and respect for cheerleading, dance, music, and art, as well as an unhealthy obsession with candy and gas station slushies.

Danielle tells you how to contribute to the Salvation Army’s Angel Giving Tree

Molly Keen - Writer Molly was born and raised in Sioux Falls and is currently a junior attending the University of NebraskaLincoln. She is an Advertising major with an Art minor, but is still undecided as to what she wants to do when she “grows up.” In her spare time Molly likes to listen to and make music, hang out in coffee shops, travel as much as her budget will allow, read, and... well, write.

This month Molly explains the tremendous advantages of becoming a first-time home buyer.

Lucinda Albers - Graphic Designer Lucinda Albers graduated from South Dakota State University in December,2008 with a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism. She cuzrrently lives in Chicago and works as a DJ at Fearless Radio, a contributing writer for Alternative Press, and a freelance graphic designer. A passionate supporter of music, she hopes to continue working with all forms of media to promote national and local artists.

Lucinda designs music pages 17-19.

Joanna Halverson - Writer A 20-year-old journalism major at Augustana College, JoAnna Halverson grew up in Sioux Falls. She is passionate about bike riding, apples and poetry. When not delivering pizza or managing the office at her church, she can be spotted around the Sioux Falls bike trails on her turquoise mountain bike. In the future, JoAnna would enjoy a career in writing for entertainment or fashion.

Joanna gives you a more creative option for a holiday party.

DECEMBER 2009 I 605 MAGAZINE

7

605

Magazine

Publisher: The Mighty Bowtones, LLC Editor-in-Chief: Alana Bowden Director of Sales and Marketing: John Snyder Art Director: Adam Lichty Cover Photo by: Studio Blu Photography Photography: Studio Blu Photography, Candace Ann Photography and Reistroffer Design Mail correspondence to: 300 N. Cherapa Pl., Suite 504 Sioux Falls, SD 57103 For Advertising Inquiries Contact: John Snyder (605) 274-1999 sales@605magazine.com Check us out at: www.605magazine.com www.facebook.com/605magazine www.myspace.com/605magazine or www.twitter.com/605magazine 605 Magazine is printed monthly by The Mighty Bowtones, LLC in Sioux Falls and is distributed free all over the city. Š2009 605 Magazine. All rights reserved. Content in this magazine may not be copied in any way without written permission from the publisher. 605 Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Materials will be returned only if accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Content in articles, editorial material and advertisements are not necessarily endorsed by 605 Magazine. The Mighty Bowtones, LLC does not endorse or condone consuming alcohol under the age of 21.

605 Magazine is printed using acid and chlorine free vegetable ink.

Our paper is FSC certified and is made of no less than 10% post consumer waste recycled paper.

We print in Sioux Falls, to reduce shipping pollution and to keep jobs local.

Success in school, and in life.

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DECEMBER 2009 I 605 MAGAZINE

9

EVENTS

december

2009

Conductor Brian Schimdt

* DOWNTOWN Dec. 4

*

Downtown First Fridays

*

Downtown Sioux Falls. 5 p.m. Enjoy exceptional shopping, original art, entertainment, dining and much, much more. Visit dtsf.com and click on the First Friday button to view the exciting things taking place. For more info call (605) 338-4009 or visit www.dtsf.com.

www.clubdavidsf.com or www.BattleForTheArts.org.

MISCELLANEOUS CELLANEOUS

Dec. 9-12

Dec. 13

Dec. 4-5

Comedian Marvin Lee Live

Live Nativity and Streets of Bethlehem

Fat Daddy’s Comedy Club. 7:30 and 10 p.m. Fat Daddy’s Comedy Club is headlining Marvin Lee and featuring Steve Gillespie. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10. Full bar and menu, so you can enjoy dinner, drinks & the best comedy in town! For more info, visit www.fatdaddyscomedy.com.

First United Methodist Church. 5-7:30 p.m. Free admission. Step back in time to learn more about Christ’s birth in Bethlehem. Enjoy the beauty of the live outdoor nativity scene. Then go inside and walk the streets of Bethlehem, where you will be “enrolled” in the census along with Mary and Joseph and others who were there at that time. Take part in crafts, and children’s activities, that were part of daily life in Bethlehem 2,000 years ago. And warm yourself with a soup and dessert supper. For more info, call (605) 336-3652.

*Pavilion Holiday

Washington Pavilion. Dec. 4 (10 a.m.-8 p.m.) and Dec. 5 (9 a.m.-3 p.m.) Your holiday shopping marketplace

For more info, visit www.washingtonpavilion.org.

Dec. 5-6 Dance Gallery’s Nutcracker

Dec. 17, 18, 19, 20

Orpheum Theatre. 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Get in the Christmas spirit by enjoying the Nutcracker presented by the Dance Gallery. Adult tickets $12 and children’s tickets $8. For more info, visit www.dancegallerysd.net.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Dec. 5, 12, 19 Downtown Holidays Downtown. Every Saturday between Thanksgiving and Christmas is special downtown. Do your shopping in this classic, festive atmosphere. Kids can visit with Santa at Shriver Square from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., and the whole family can enjoy free horse-drawn wagon rides between Noon – 4 p.m. Santa is also inviting kids to bring a non-perishable food item with them which he will then deliver to our local Food Pantry. For more info, visit www.dtsf.com.

ENTERTAINMENT

Washington Pavilion. 7 p.m. (2 p.m. also on Sat.).

This beloved classic by Barbara Robinson (HarpCollins, 1972) about six very unruly children who teach a whole church about the true meaning of the birth of Christ is brought to life on the Great Hall stage. Tickets $10 or $5 for children plus tax. For more info, call (605) 367-6000 or visit www.washingtonpavilion.org.

Club David. 8 p.m. – 1 a.m. Main Level only. The $5 cover charge includes free popcorn all night. Pizza, energy drinks, canned soda, and coffee are offered at a per/cost. Bring a valid ID for ages 21 and older to attend the Upper Level, neighborhood bar with no cover until 2 a.m. - or join the dance party on the main level.

No alcohol permitted on the main level. IDs checked at the door. For more info, visit www.clubdavidsf.com.

Dec. 3 and 17 Battle for the Arts on Main Stage Club David. 9 p.m. No Cover. For more info, visit

10

REVIEWS I EVENTS

Dec. 3, 11, 16, 19 Sioux Falls Stampede Hockey Sioux Falls Arena. 7:05 p.m.

Dec. 18-19 Dakota Chorale *South Premiere Concerts First Congressional Church (18th) and Brandon Lutheran Church (19th). South Dakota Chorale, a new professional choir, will offer its premiere performances December 18th and 19th in Sioux Falls and Brandon.

These two concerts will feature some of the most beautiful Christmas music written for choirs. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. For more info, visit www.southdakotachorale.com.

Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 18+ Groove Night

SPORTS

Dec. 4, 5, 15, 18, 25, 26, 30 Sioux Falls Skyforce Sioux Falls Arena. 7 p.m. For more info, visit www.nba. com/dleague/siouxfalls.

MUSIC Due to space, here are only some of the biggest shows of the month. For more show listings, visit www.collectiveefforts.com, www.pepperentertainment.com, www.clubdavidsf.com, www.myspace.com/phoenixlougelive, or www.44downtown.com.

GOOD CAUSE Dec. 2

Dec. 5 A Johnson Family Benefit: Heads Held High Central Baptist Ch urch. 5-9 p.m. Six-year-old Katarah suffers from multiple diseases including severe food allergies and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). She survives off a feeding tube which is plugged into her 18 hours a day. This night is dedicated to helping the family purchase medical equipment that is needed to make Katarah’s life more bearable. For more info, call (605) 521-7613 or visit www.revolutionarycauses.com.

*Truth and Adapt Hip Hop w/ Parallax Club David. 8 p.m. Tickets $6. 18+.

Jon Wayne & The Pain w/ El Dub & The Summer Club Nutty’s North. 9 p.m. Tickets $7 in advance. 21+.

Dec. 4 DAMON DOTSON Club David. 9 p.m. Tickets $7. 21+.

Dec. 5 Copperview Phoenix Lounge. 8 p.m.

Dec. 8 Elizabeth and the Catapult w/ The Golden Bubbles Latitude 44. Tickets $6 in advance. 21+.

Dimebag Darrell 5 Year Memorial Metal Show w/ local metal acts Nutty’s North. 9 p.m.

Dec. 9 Breaking Benjamin w/ Sick Puppies, Rev Theory, & Adelita’s Way Convention Center. 6 p.m. $35 in advance and $38 day of show. All ages!

Dec. 11 Future Leader of the World w/ Something Stereo Phoenix Lounge. 8 p.m.

MORE THAN ENOUGH w/ The Broadcast, Lights Out Dancing & Cities Never Sleep Club David. 9 p.m. Tickets $6. 21+.

Solution Holiday Hoedown w/ more TBA Nutty’s North. 9 p.m. Tickets $7 in advance. 21+.

Dec. 12 RIDERS OF MEARAS w/ 23 Cent Solution Club David. 5:30 p.m. Tickets $7. All ages.

Daywalkers CD Release w/ Night Shield, Maniac, and more.

Nutty’s North. 9 p.m.

Dec. 18 Trey Lane “All Thing Considered” Album Release Party w/ Toki Wright of Rhymesayers Hosted by V The Noble One, DJ Adapt spinning.

Club David. 9 p.m. Tickets $6 in advance, $8 at the door. 21+.

Tennessee Murder Club w/ Hammerlord & Troglodyte Nutty’s North. 9 p.m. Tickets $7 in advance. 21+.

Dec. 22 SLEEPING IN GETHSEMANE w/Roman Ships, The Amidon Affair Club David. 9 p.m. Tickets $7. 21+.

Dec. 26 Soulcrate Music/We all Have Hooks for Hands Christmas Party Nuttys North. 9 p.m. 21+.

Dec. 31 Early New Years Eve party! THE KICKBACK w/ Rubber Gloves, Hollander, Cherry Valance Club David. 5:30 p.m. 18+

New Years Eve Jam Out Nutty’s North. 8 p.m. Tickets $15 in advance. 21+.

New Years Eve Party II! Live DJ Dance party.

Club David. 9 p.m. Cover $5! Free Reistroffer Design photo booth, party favors and a complimentary champagne pour at Midnight! 21+.

Have an event you want on our calendar? E-mail details to contact@605magazine.com by the 15th of the month for the next issue.

DECEMBER 2009 I 605 MAGAZINE 11

a

Taste

of

SARCASM: Señor Wiener

with Dan Doyle

J

ust a couple weeks ago, I remember driving east on 41st Street from Barnes & Noble and seeing a bright orange and green sign with what appeared to be a hot dog wearing a poncho and sombrero.1 Reading the name, I thought does it say…is it really called…Señor Wiener? My immediate next thought was this has to be a joke.

There is no way these people can be serious. Can they?

At this time the restaurant had not opened for business. Maybe it was a ploy. [Fast forward to Halloween weekend]

through some of the most historic events of the last century, and during that time, with those he met along the way, he shared his marvelous…wieners.4 Accompanying the story are several humorous photos of Señor Wiener5 with historic individuals like Fidel Castro, Neil Armstrong and The Beatles.

You have to see these pictures.

middle of the restaurant, unobstructed by waiting customers, condiment tables or soda fountains. Even the gift shop7 is located near the back, out of the way from the actual restaurant. As an added bonus, there are even flat-screen TVs on several of the walls.

Enough babbling. So, how is the food? Honestly, it’s pretty good. Then

At this point, I haven’t even walked through the door and I am already convinced the place is going to bomb. How can it be real? As I pull into the parking lot, I was prepared for the doors to be locked and the place to be closed before it ever officially opened.

Finally, I walked inside. Much to my surprise, the interior was pretty nice.

The layout is well conceived. There is a direct line to choose your dog, followed by a slide-down counter for selecting toppings.6 The tables were set out in the

again, how do you screw up a hot dog?

The obvious starting component to

Señor Wiener is located on 3504 W 41st St, in Sioux Falls. This wiener mecca offers (of course) hot dogs along with every other tube-shaped meat ever conceived. To top them off are toppings - tons of them.

Being the crack investigator that I am, I Googled the restaurant. I was initially comforted to see it was a franchise. With one location? Only in Sioux Falls, South Dakota???2 Something seems fishy. Where is the restaurant pictured on the home page located?3 After clicking on the “About” tab on the Web site, I find an entire faux story about the origins of the restaurant. It is a Forest Gump-like tale about a man named José Wiener, who was born in the year 1920 in Tijuana, Mexico to German descendants. Young José lived 12

REVIEWS I A TASTE OF SARCASM

1

(Seinfeld voice) Who were the ad wizards that came up with this one?

2 Consider me thoroughly confused at this point in time. Franchise?

3 That would be a magical place called Photoshop Land.

4 I am floored. Who comes up with that? You cannot make this stuff up. Er, wait…

5 He earned the title “Señor” in his 30s.

6 What else do you need when ordering a hot dog?

7 Yes, I said gift shop. What is this place, Spencer Gifts?

the discussion begins with the Âź pound all-beef hot dogs.8 These tube-shaped, naturally cased meats are high quality (as far as hot dogs go) and they taste great. Patrons can order their dog grilled, fried or boiled. In addition to the traditional hot dog, there are also bratwursts, polish sausages and corn dogs available.

Although I love the variety, I have to complain about one thing: The corn dogs. I love corn dogs, and I was thrilled to see they were advertised as quarter pounders. To me, they look tiny.9 Needless to say, I was disappointed. When I get a corn dog, I want a big, long, deep-fried, fair-style corn dog.10 Beyond the tube-shaped meats, the toppings are what drive this place. There are tons of toppings. Anything you can think of. Hell, they even have beef gravy and bacon bits – can you believe that? Glorious.

The one concern I have with the toppings, however, is in the process. Seùor needs to figure out a way to speed up the wait. Take a cue from any number of places like Qdoba, Subway or Quizno’s. The lines here are long, but not necessary, because there are a lot of people. Right now the assembly execution is flawed. It just takes too damn long to get a hot dog.

Accompanying your dog, the side items are waffle fries, homemade kettle chips and corn chips with salsa. I like the items, but again, I have a problem with the execution. Here, the problem lies in the seasoning – there is none. The oldest rule in the book when it comes to fried items is that you salt (and/or season) the items immediately after they come out of the fryer. Unfortunately, these sides don’t seem to have any salt (or seasoning),11 and they are very bland.

So, what’s the rub here? The pragmatist in me suggests that Seùor Wiener might be doomed due to excess and failed execution. On the other hand, the idealist in me thinks it is so crazy, it just might work.12 Check it out, and see what you think.

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FINAL GRADE: Food: 3.5/5

The dogs are great. The sides need work.

Service: 2/5

Very slow and the staff seems lost.

Atmosphere: 3/5

Nice layout. Good work with the theme. The self-serve condiment station needs to be upgraded.

8

I refuse to call them â&#x20AC;&#x153;wienersâ&#x20AC;? like the staff at SeĂąorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s insists upon doing.

Raise the BS flag. Laundry is out on the field, folks.

10 Cue the fraternity humor.

11 How do they expect me to keep my blood pressure high?

12 I have always wanted to say that.

9

DECEMBER 2009 I 605 MAGAZINE 13

G e t I n v o l v e d !:

The Angel Giving Tree

W

hen the snow begins to fall and the spirit of giving is in the air, our attention should be shifted to those who are less fortunate. With annual events such as The Angel Giving Tree, hosted by The Salvation Army, our obligation to create a sense of community has never been easier.

William Booth began his ministerial career in England in 1852. Abandoning the traditional concept of the church, Booth took his ministry to the people as he walked the streets preaching to the poor, the homeless, the hungry, and the destitute.

During the next 34 years, his efforts founded The Salvation Army, which has been a recognized organization in the

By Danielle Jaeger munities across America.

“From November 27th to December 24th, The Salvation Army will be collecting items,” said Chrissy Spoo, marketing manager of The Empire Mall.

Whether online or at The Empire Mall, the process of participating is easy. To begin, search the tree or online for an angel you would like to adopt. Once you have chosen an angel, simply purchase the items from their wish-list, and send or drop off the unwrapped items.

“It’s heartwarming to know that any gift you buy will make a child or family’s Christmas...

If that is something that I am capable of, then

that’s all I wish for at Christmas.”

The Salvation Army serve more than 30 million people worldwide annually through events such as The Angel Giving Tree. To participate, visit the tree’s location within the Empire Mall or search online at the official web site of The Salvation Army.

United States since 1886. Since then, they have expanded into virtually every corner of the world.

Last year, The Salvation Army served more than 30 million people worldwide, through events such as The Angel Giving Tree. Traditionally, the only way to participate in The Angel Giving Tree event was to visit its location in The Empire Mall. This year, The Salvation Army has teamed up with JC Penney to offer you another way to give.

The Angel Giving Tree, hosted by The Salvation Army, is an annual event designed to help children in need in com14

REVIEWS I GET INVOLVED

Katrina Yde, a third year student at the University of Sioux Falls, remembers a previous experience with participating in The Angel Giving Tree event.

“It’s heartwarming to know that any gift you buy will make a child or family’s Christmas,” said Yde. “If that is something that I am capable of, then that’s all I wish for at Christmas.”

Whether you have a little or a lot to spare, everyone has the ability to participate in giving back to their community.

More often than not, you may need to work together to make it happen.

“If money is tight, you can always grab a group of friends and adopt an angel together,” said Yde. It is important to always remember having the ability to make a child or family’s Christmas is a great gift in itself.

What’s better than receiving the gift of fulfillment, while giving the gift of love?

“This year, The Angel Giving Tree will be located in the Sears Wing of the mall next to the Sanford Children’s Play Area,” said Spoo. “Once the items are collected, they are distributed by The Salvation Army before Christmas to the right recipients.”

With an event this simple and fulfilling, it’s easy to participate this holiday season in helping make Sioux Falls a more unified community. Whether solo or with a group of friends, come adopt an angel (or two!) and feel good about helping someone in need.

For more information, you can visit angel.jcpenney.com or www.theempiremall.com

B

B E YO N D borders... with Mark Lloyd

M

ark Lloyd gets all the book perks working at Borders. Our perk?

We get the skinny about upcoming books ahead of everyone else.

A Hero for Slackers everywhere The joke goes like this: A man is hitting himself in the head repeatedly with a hammer. This man’s friend comes up to him and says, “Why are you hitting yourself in the head with that hammer?”

The guy says, “Because it feels so good when I stop.”

In “It Feels So Good When I Stop”, Joe Pernice brings us a hero for slackers everywhere.

He’s that guy we all know who y

It Feels So Good When I Stop

By Joe Pernice

never has a job, but always seems to stay afloat. He’s that guy who is really intelligent and talented, but never does anything with it. He’s that guy who wakes up at noon and then takes a nap at two in the afternoon.

But he is a pretty lovable guy.

He has just run away from his wife of one day to go and live at his sister’s house. He has no job. He has no means of transportation, except for a kid’s bike. All he does all day is drink and smoke cigarettes.

And all around him, little bits of responsibility start to creep up on him. He starts to babysit his two-year-old nephew. At first, he is scared to do it, but after a while, he realizes he likes it, and is actually good at it.

A woman he meets named Marie wants to hire him to

help her make a documentary. This woman has a tragic past, and may be just the thing he needs.

Because if he can just get over feeling sorry for himself, he might be able to start doing something. If he can see that his own story is nothing compared to Marie’s, he might be able to care for someone else.

If he can just get over the hump, maybe his relationship with Marie will shock him awake and into the real world.

But, of course, he probably doesn’t really want to become a responsible adult. He doesn’t really want to take on any kind of responsibility on a full-time basis. Because, like the joke says, it feels so good when I stop.

What to Watch for in December A gossip journalist, who is in trouble for reporting a false story, is also trying to write a novel based on the suspicious death of a billionaire. And you just know he’s going to end up getting in way too deep.

Too Much Money

By Dominick Dunne

This hard-partying college baseball player has a stroke and then has to come to grips with it. I think the moral of the story is to party as much as you can, because you might have a stroke.

Happy: A Memoir

By Alex Lemon

REVIEWS I BEYOND BORDERS

15

Wolfmother (out of five) **** Cosmic Egg

a l b u m re v i e w

Despite extensive line-up changes, Aussie metal Gods return with same ferocity

By Roman Black Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cosmic Eggâ&#x20AC;?. I believe, however, if there were any real eggs in the studio during the making of this album, they would have burst from the pressure.

You see, your head will start to rock as the thick, textured walls of distortion set ablaze your speakers or headphones.

Yes, Wolfmother is back, over three years post the release of their epic debut self-titled album with a lineup overhaul. Only lead vocalist/ guitarist, Andrew Stockdale, remains from the

power trio that was born in the year 2000 in Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital city. Fans of Black Sabbath and other stoner/ doom metal bands will enjoy this charging force of a record-- rest assured the sound of the first record still resonates.

The first minute of the opening cut â&#x20AC;&#x153;California Queenâ&#x20AC;? slowly trembles with an unexpected lack of heaviness, and then, silence strikes, followed by a mountain of jolting vibrations. Mr. Stockdaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fearless vocal patterns ride the crackling grooves with a confident smoothness throughout this entire release. The Wah pedal-driven anthem â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sundialâ&#x20AC;? crunches on with so much force your neck will be numb by time itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s done.

Some slower, more melodic tracks like â&#x20AC;&#x153;White Featherâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the Morningâ&#x20AC;? add contrast to the solid foundation that is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cosmic Eggâ&#x20AC;?. Nevertheless, if you need some shell-breaking thunder, flip on â&#x20AC;&#x153;10,000 Feetâ&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;New Moon Risingâ&#x20AC;? and you will understand when I say this birth vessel needs no incubation. This is a second, solid release from a band that shows no signs of slowing down, and certainly leaves me already eager for a third album.

We R there 4 U

We are only a text away!

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500-55010-0019 11/09

16

REVIEWS I PROFILES IN SOUND

?

Why Don’t

Ya Do

Somethin’

Dance Lessons

by Rachel Palmer images courtesy of David Tritel

T

hroughout most of the non-Western world, dancing is not only important to music and culture; it is intricately tied to building community and social relationships. Sioux Falls’ most ambitious dance instructor and owner of The Swing Experience David Tritel is working to introduce this concept to the area, and show that, “Learning dance is a way to connect with people and be a part of a community.”

That being said, Tritel got his start as one of any number of young adolescent males who find their way to dance with less than philosophical motivations. “I started to meet women,” he said, “and I kept coming back to lessons because of a girl named Brianna.” (Brianna, it seems, caught his eye with a charming statement t-shirt.)

Tritel has since evolved from a high school freshman from the suburbs of Sacramento who (although he earned the singing lead for “Jump, Jive, and Wail” in show pop choir) wasn’t allowed on the dance floor, to a professional owner, instructor and Sioux Falls dance visionary, who also finds time to compete.

What sets The Swing Experience apart from other dance instruction in the area is Tritel’s emphasis on singles instruction and his specialization in the Lindy Hop: “the crown jewel of swing dance.” He said that when he moved from California to South Dakota to start his business in January of 2007, “Sioux Falls was the largest city in the country that did

“Learning dance is a way to connect with people and be a part of a community.” not already have a swing dance scene.”

Tritel has been dancing the Lindy Hop for nine years, and Anne Baker, his assistant instructor, has for two. By introducing this style to the area, he is expanding a worldwide community of swing dancers, and sharing the “experience of the dance that had touched my life.”

Along with the Lindy Hop, The Swing Experience offers instruction for East and West Coast Swing, Charleston, Balboa, Blues, and Salsa. Furthermore, Tritel incorporates many music genres into his lessons to prepare students to dance to everything from hip hop to country at local venues such as Wiley’s and Buck’s. Some of his personal favorite pop art20

LIFE I WHY DON’T YA DO SOMETHIN’

David Tritel competes in a swing competition in Omaha. Tritel specializes in the Lindy Hop, which he calls “the crown jewel of swing dance.” ists to dance to include Timbaland, Jennifer Lopez, Christina Aguilara, and Maroon 5.

Although this may seem unconventional, Tritel emphasizes that he doesn’t want students to pay for once per week dance lessons—they should be able to use their skills in any venue for the rest of their lives. He asserts that, “What we do is honestly closer to break dance than it is to ballroom dancing.”

This allows for new ideas and interpretations of what “looks cool” and “dancing the same style, but adding your own flare.”

Tritel also believes that, apart from the style of dance he focuses on, he offers a unique opportunity by catering to singles. Rather than couples who are primarily taking lessons as dates, Swing Experience dancers are self-motivated and keep coming back for the sense of community that is built in his dance classes. Very intimate with generally less than 10 people per class, Tritel is able to teach swing as a new language and show students how to communicate while dancing, allowing for creativity and playful interaction.

Along with small group classes, The Swing Experience offers larger classes at club-type venues, and Tritel sometimes works for free with area high schools such as Lincoln and Washington. He emphasizes that there is “not enough entertainment for the under 21 crowd in Sioux Falls” and sees dance as an activity which transcends the boundaries of age.

Tritel’s flexibility with venues allows him to keep prices down, and at the equivalent of less than $10 per hour of dance, being a part of The Swing Experience is a bargain.

The lessons are taught in monthly series (around six hours of lesson per month) for usually around $50. It’s also worth noting that aside from the social and entertainment aspects, these classes provide a fun, intense workout. Tritel suggests students wear comfortable clothing (as well as fresh deodorant and a round of breath mints).

Whether just a general interest in swing dancing, the social opportunity or both of these factors draw you to Tritel’s classes, keep in mind that the skills taught will not only be fun, but possibly life-changing. The amount of interactions and friendships that learning to swing dance provides is the most important of all its advantages. From the high school kid looking to get a date, to the professional instructor working to change the face of entertainment in Sioux Falls, David Tritel has come a long way from his roots in California, but he will tell you that the people met along the way have been the key, keeping him dedicated and endlessly interested in expanding the community of dance he is lucky enough to be a part of.

The Swing Experience Owner and Instructor: David Tritel Assistant Instructor: Anna Baker Contact at lindyhop@theswingexperience.com or (605) 212- 6230

Anna Baker and David Tritel swing dance at last summer’s JazzFest. Tritel is the owner and instructor at The Swing Experience, with Baker serving as his assistant instructor, respectively.

The Swing Experience offers instruction in the Lindy Hop, East and West Coast Swing, Charleston, Balboa, Blues, and Salsa.

DECEMBER 2009 I 605 MAGAZINE 21

22

LIFE I COVER STORY

Sioux Falls’

As a lifelong Sioux Falls’ native, Trey Lane is used to being out of the spotlight. In the meantime, Lane helped nurture a burgeoning local hip hop scene. With his new album, All Things Considered, set to drop, the Sioux Falls MC hopes to expand and solidify an already devoted fan base.

BY DENISE DEPAOLO IMAGES BY STUDIO BLU PHOTOGRAPHY ioux Falls is becoming increasingly known for its underground music scene. A big reason for this is the plethora of talented hip hop acts that have emerged over the last decade. Twentyfour-year-old Trey Lane (born Anthony Withers) has established himself, along with the likes of Soulcrate Music and V the Noble One, as a pillar of this thriving subculture. With roots saturated by a lifetime in Sioux Falls, Lane strives to create music that is both revelatory and relevant to his listeners with his fourth effort “All Things Considered” hitting stores Dec. 18th.

As a child, Lane’s love of music was nourished by his mother with the influx of soulful crooning from the likes of Marvin Gaye and Teddy Pendergrass. What initially struck him was the affect that music had on people, how it had the propensity to make them experience the emotions portrayed in the song so deeply.

DECEMBER 2009 I 605 MAGAZINE 23

Lane (left) and fellow MC, V the Noble One (right) have greatly contributed to a thriving Sioux Falls underground hip-hop scene.

By the time he was 10 years old, Lane had discovered rap. He found himself interested in the work of artists like Run DMC, Dr. Dre and Notorious B.I.G.,

in the next he’d be expressing his political views.”

Along with impressions gathered from everyday life, Lane harnessed

The underground music community hasn’t suffered as much from the recession, because we’re doing it ourselves.

MAYBE THAT’S WHAT IT’S GETTING BACK TO. though the one who made Lane want to strive to create was Tupac Shakur. What struck Lane so profoundly about Tupac was the diversity of his music. Recalls Lane, “In one song, he’d be happy, and 24

LIFE I COVER STORY

these influences and began writing.

While a student at Whittier Middle School, Lane got his first taste of performing. One of his fondest memories is recording live with his friends in

front of a crowd of neighbors, with only a karaoke machine and their voices. It was not until graduating from Washington High School, however, that Lane had the notion of pursuing music for a living. So, at 18, he did his first gig as an opener for Soulcrate and V. “I was a nervous wreck. It was nothing major, but to me at the time, it was big,” said Lane.

In the seven years that have passed since his first show, Lane has stayed busy. He has shared the stage with local and national acts, toured the country, and joined Flame On Entertainment, which features acts like V the Nobleone, Bru’Tal, and Kash.

Despite all of this activity and tireless work, Lane feels -- like many local artists – that Sioux Falls is a perpetual underdog at the national level.

“You say you’re from Sioux Falls, and they’re like, ‘where’s that on the map?’” said Lane.

However, Lane believes the success and recognition attained by The Spill Canvas has been instrumental in paving the way for other groups from Sioux Falls. Sooner than later, he hopes, our underground acts will get the recognition they deserve.

“If you look at a band like Soulcrate, they’re on par with anything else that’s out there in underground hip hop. If they’re not on par, they’re better. Things V and I are doing, not commercial rap, but more toward the mainstream, you can’t tell that the music’s local. I love that we have so many talented people, but I hate that we have to travel to get it. In a scene like New York, where they have everything right there, you get people who are less talented and get recognition because of the resources that are available to them.”

All chagrin aside, Lane is ecstatic at the diversity our scene has to offer and draws inspiration from music of all genres. Lane’s muses outside of hip hop include Nirvana, Bill Withers and even Miley Cyrus.

As far as his private life is concerned, Lane prefers to keep that under wraps.

He admires celebrities like Bono and

Jay-Z who have managed to attain high levels of recognition without putting their dirty laundry at center stage.

His deeply personal songs offer fans a glimpse at a couple of his cards, with-

called ‘Far Away’. It talks about people who I know who have big aspirations and come from different walks of life.

It’s about their dreams.”

The title track of the album features

I got into this album by just writing about things that were going on. For example, there’s a track called ‘Far Away’. It talks about people who I know who have big aspirations and come from different walks of life.

IT’S ABOUT THEIR DREAMS.

out the necessity for him to reveal his whole hand.

Lane views “All Things Considered” as a departure from his earlier work and described, “I got into this album by just writing about things that were going on. For example, there’s a track

Toki Wright of Minneapolis- based Rhymesayers Entertainment, which represents artists like Atmosphere and Brother Ali. With this album, Lane hopes to expand and solidify his fan base. He believes there is a large enough audience

within the underground scene for those who are putting out a quality product to make a living.

Said Lane, “Look at Atmosphere. He just recently started getting spins on MTV and things of that nature, but he’s been traveling worldwide and paying his bills off what he loves to do for years now. The underground music community hasn’t suffered as much from the recession, because we’re doing it ourselves. Maybe that’s what it’s getting back to.”

“All Things Considered” will be available at all Ernie November and Last Stop CD Shop locations and can be pre-ordered on flameonentmusic.com starting Dec. 1st. Also, on Dec. 18th will be the album release party at Club David starting at 9 p.m. featuring Toki Wright , V the Noble One and Adapt as DJ.

DECEMBER 2009 I 605 MAGAZINE 25

The

: Cheap, but MEANINGFULGifts

By Brittney Hansen

h holidays are a time to celebrate with friends and family—and of course, he w who doesn’t like presents? But if you’re like most people this year, you may have h a little less dough to drop this holiday season. Don’t let the holidays break your bank—get creative.

Start a tradition this holiday season by making your own Apple Pie—or hard cider—and giving it as a holiday gift. This easy to follow recipe makes about two gallons of Apple Pie and can be jarred to give to more than a dozen people on your list.

Things you will need: • 1 gallon apple cider • 2 12 oz. containers of apple juice concentrate (add water according to package) • 1 container of cinnamon sticks (6-10) • 1 bottle or 750 milliliters of Everclear, spiced rum or vodka • 3 cups sugar (or to taste) • Cheesecloth

mon and cloves to taste. Bring to a crawling boil until completely dissolved.

2. For best results, reduce heat, simmer for about two hours and let cool over night. Otherwise, remove from heat immediately and cool to room temperature.

3. Remove cinnamon sticks and save for later. Strain the mixture using cheesecloth to remove any sediment and add Everclear or other alcohol.

4. Pour into mason canning jars with rings and lids and add a cinnamon stick or two to each jar.

I add a package of Aspen mulling spices with the sugar and it really enhances the flavor. That way, you do not have to purchase nutmeg, cloves or other spices individually, which is convenient and cuts expenses.

Decorate the canning jars with homemade labels, ribbons and bows, or find funky shaped bottles of your own. The drink can then be served as a shot, chilled over ice or warm.

Create car emergency snow kits with a container of kitty litter, an ice-scraper, a flashlight, matches, a lighter, non-perishable food items that don’t require any preparation, flares and military Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) if you have access to them. You could also create a car-wash bucket and fill it with soap, sponges, an air-freshener and wax.

With the new year just around the corner, buy Not your average apple pie... that special someone, friend or family member a calendar for the next year in one of their favorite themes. Fill in the calendar with important • Mason jars in quarts or pints (makes about 10 quarts or 20 birthdates, anniversaries or other reminders to make the gift pints) more personalized.

• Nutmeg, cloves and other spices to taste Thrift stores and antique stores are great places to look 1. In a large stockpot (12-15 quarts), combine apple cider, for inexpensive and one-of-a-kind gifts for anyone on your apple juice concentrate and water according to package holiday list. Lost Marbles Antiques on Madison Avenue has and heat. Add sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cinna- items that are perfect for that person on your list who has 26

LIFE I THE SCOOP

just about everything. Lost Marbles has a wide selection of vintage clothing, jewelry, collectibles and house wares that would make a unique addition to just about anyone’s wardrobe or living room.

You could also visit any thrift store, pick a neat suitcase or antique hatbox and fill it with candy, baked goodies or other trinkets to create your own gift basket. Find a unique coffee mug and fill it with flavored coffee or hot cocoa for a cold winter’s day.

The Book Shop on Phillips Avenue in downtown Sioux Falls carries new, used, rare and antiquated books at an affordable price. Find out your boyfriend or girlfriend’s favorite book from their childhood and find a copy of it there or online. You can also find a wide variety of coffee-table books to match any friend or family member’s interest. Zandbroz Variety downtown also has a wide variety of specialty items and gifts.

and a homemade coupon for a free movie night or a favorite DVD. If you’re crafty, sew your friends and relatives Christmas stockings and fill them with inexpensive goodies. Knit them scarves or mittens. If you don’t know how to sew, make nosew fleece blankets in their school colors or colors of their favorite sports team.

Start with two large, blanketsized pieces of fleece cut to the same size, lay one on top of the other and cut a 4” x 4” square in each corner. Then, make 4” cuts at 1” intervals on all four sides. Tie knots close to the edge of the cut using one strip from the front and one strip from the back. For best results, tie every other all the way around and flip the blanket over and finish tying.

And if all else fails, mixed At the dollar store or grocery store, Need to find a cheap gift? How about this silly tapes and CDs will never go find a large colorful plastic bowl and fill coffee table book for a cat-crazed friend? out of style. it with microwave popcorn, soda, candy

DECEMBER 2009 I 605 MAGAZINE 27

the

REAL deal:

JARROD BARTON

by royce m. larson

Hometown: Santa Fe, NM Age: 23 Specialty: Pop Art

I

f you have walked the streets of Sioux Falls, you might have noticed some avant-garde artwork popping up every now and again. Jarrod Barton is the reason for the very art that seems to be sparking attention in our little

city.

Barton, who could be called a pop artist, is sitting on a

gold mine of talent. He lives in Sioux Falls and works as a mechanic in Brandon. Barton conducts a number of talents: Sketching, spray-painting, tattoos… And the cherry on top?

28

LIFE I THE REAL DEAL

He can customize your favorite pair of sneakers with acrylic paint.

According to Barton, living in Sioux Falls hasn’t been easy as an artist. “It was a culture shock. Not a lot of galleries with my kind of stuff. Around here it’s mostly ducks and pheasants,” said Barton.

Barton calls himself “Jarrod the Straight-Edger”. He does this to signify his way of life which is free of drugs, alcohol and partying. He considers himself what he calls a “minor threat” and even wears two X’s, one on each hand, so he never forgets his vow to live clean.

Frankenstenil Barton has lived a very clean and focused life with help from loved ones. “It was my stepfather that got me started. He really pushed for me. He would sit me down, and we would draw comic book characters,” said Barton.

So what makes Barton a pop artist? It is his use of the pulp-classic horror characters from the silver screen.

Frankenstein is an image that repeatedly appears in Barton’s work, especially in his magnet art. These magnets are small and thin, but Barton sprays an image onto the top and livens it up with a word like “Boost”. There are two of these pieces slapped Strength & Loyalty along the side of Minerva’s on 11th street. There are also magnets on the via-dock on 11th street.

“I really enjoy the magnets. I have been doing them for a while for a couple of places like You’ve Got Magnets and MagnetMafia.com, and they have made it to Germany and Mexico,” said Barton.

If you would like an artistic touch to a magnet, canvas or even a tattoo, then keep your eyes on Jarrod Barton aka “Jarrod the Straight-Edger”. We will some day be able to say we knew him when and some day your custom painted pair of Vans will be worth a fortune.

ASK THE

JOHNS Y

es, all three of these guys are named John. Yes it was a popular name in the ‘80s (I’m sure you feel their pain all you Katies, Michaels and Jessicas). But these three gentlemen, when not slaving away at Worlds of Warcraft, are here to answer every question you throw at them. They’re suave, sort of hip and are here for you.

The identity of these three amigos have been altered to protect the innocent.

ing one of my other friends. They only hung out a couple of times, but now when there might be a group hangout, she whines and moans about how much she can’t stand her. It ruins everything.

What should I do?

-Justine, 24

the wrong, and I want everything to be OK again. What is the best way to break the ice?

-Mary, 21 JP: It depends on what the argument was about. If the argument was about something stupid, then just get over it and move on. If it was about something serious like a mom joke, fat joke or a “mean ‘not’ joke,” then I would say “friends off ”.

JP: I think the best thing to do would be sign them up for a peer mediation at a local middle school. I had a couple friends that were peer me- JW: Ugh, I want to say strip-o-gram, diators and they were really good, but I might go with going out for drinks like they do on “The Hills”. they told me.

Image by Candace Ann Photography

My girlfriend always nags me when I go out with her parents for dinner because I’m “not dressed up enough”. I usually slap on a dress shirt and jeans with some casual shoes. What is your version of “dressed up” for said occasion?

-Crew, 19 JP: My version would pretty much be the exact outfit you mentioned. I would compare it to how my dad made me dress for church.

JW: You sound good to me with the shirt and jeans unless you are dating a member of the royal family.

JT: Ask her to meet you for coffee or lunch. When you meet with her, make sure you spend more time listening than talking. And when it’s your turn to talk, be sincere and JT: If she is the only one who has honest with her. Let her know that a problem with your other friend, you are sorry, and make sure you then it sounds like she is the prob- don’t ruin your apology by making lem. Let her know the next time excuses. there is a group hangout and tell Have a question for the Johns? her if she can’t handle being around Shoot an e-mail their way at your other friend, then she should TheJohns@605magazine.com. do something else that night.

JW: The friend who makes it awkward: Pie in the face. In public. Or, just stop inviting them, because it is their problem.

JT: The only version of “dressed up” that should count is your girlfriend’s. Find out what she wants you to wear is by letting her pick out your outfit the next time you have dinner.

My friend and I got into a big argument, and we haven’t spoken I have a friend who insists on hat- in weeks. I know we were both in

Disclaimer: Ask the Johns is a sarcastic piece. Their advice is not meant to be taken literally… except maybe John T’s.

LIFE I ASK THE JOHNS 29

He Said, She Said...

IT

’s all about the he said,

she said bull… you get it. Lady Tove and Sir Mammenga are here to cut the middle man and give straight-up answers for relationships from a male and female perspective.

My fiance started med school in Vermillion and just finished his first semester. I never see him now, and there are so many semesters ahead... How can I keep myself busy and not get upset when I never see him, and stay supportive?

-Kayla, 24 T: Any type of elongated time away from your significant other can be really trying on a relationship. Fortunately, you’re not the first person, or the only person, going through this. There are support groups out there for people in your position. To some, it may seem silly to join a support group for being away from your significant other, but believe it or not, it helps.

Being able to talk to someone else

Image by Candace Ann Photography

to a healthy, successful and loving relationship. Learning to overcome odds together can really bring you closer together, even if it doesn’t seem like it will now.

Keep hanging on, and join a few activities you enjoy. Whether you join a gym, a book club or volunteer at a charity, the time you spend doing one

...be excited for your man. He’s going through a really rough part of his life, too: he’s away from you, he’s constantly studying and he’s stressing about classes and grades. in your position and form connections with people who understand can make a huge difference in dealing with your time apart. Another thing to help you through is to be excited for your man.

He’s going through a really rough part of his life, too: he’s away from you, he’s constantly studying and he’s stressing about classes and grades. What you both have to keep in mind is this is just a little time that will pave the way 30

LIFE I HE SAID, SHE SAID...

or more of these things will be more rewarding than if you were to spend that time moping and missing your man.

You can do it.

M: Well Kayla, let me tell ya, med school is no cup of tea or walk in the park. Nor is it easy-peasy lemon squeezy for that matter. Your boyfriend is just starting one hell of a difficult ride, so it’s important for you to stay supportive – especially if you are in this

relationship for the long haul.

Now, I’m not telling you to just roll over and be a supportive robot. Talk to him in a calm way about wanting to see him and needing him around. You need to do it calmly. For God’s sake, don’t wait until you’re angry or you’ve had a couple cocktails to talk about it.

In which case, a fight will most likely break out and it will just add to the strain of the relationship. Communicate calmly and tell him how you feel.

This will also help alleviate some of the stress from his non-school life.

I’m here to tell you, Kayla, you have a long road ahead of you. This will be a true test of your relationship. It’s not hopeless, though. Keep the lines of communication open and you can make this work.

One of my readers recently told me that from the advice I give in this column, I come across as “anti-relationship”. I’m here to set the record straight: I’m not anti-relationship. On the contrary, I’m pro-relationship, but I’m very anti-bad-relationship. I’m pulling for yours to work out, Kayla. Keep talking and articulating your feelings to

him and everything will work out fine.

Good luck.

I’m going home for the holidays with my girlfriend, and I absolutely cannot stand her family. They are rude (with the exception of one uncle) and it’s hard to keep calm. What should I do?

-Mike, 26 T: One of my little tricks is to get out as much aggression and anger as I can before I enter a situation that I know gets me riled up. In the days before you go, practice a few of these techniques to get you through your time with the “in-laws.”

1) Deep breathing. Yeah, it sounds cliché, but if someone or something is getting under your skin, take a deep breath through your nose, hold it and let it out through your nose. Repeating this can actually calm your nerves.

2) Exercise your humor. Laughter can calm anyone’s nerves, and looking

How would you deal with annoying in-laws?

“Drink a lot.”

- Shannon Brunick, 24

“I don’t have annoying in- “I would smile and act laws, but I guess a couple of like they don’t bother me, beers would help.” because I like to keep the peace in the family.”

- Alex Zimmerman, 25

you spend your trip there getting all of your aggression out through words you typically use in frustrating situations.

With these tips in mind, your holiday time with the “in-laws” should be

- Barbara Micek, 27

suck it up and get through it.

Depending on where you are in your relationship – and since you are going home with her, I’ll assume it’s pretty serious – you need to make sacrifices.

When you reach a certain age and enter a committed relationship, sometimes you have to do things you really don’t want to do. Among them, going places you really don’t want to go. Whether it’s the Arboretum, the International Dollhouse Museum, the gynecologist, a pumpkin patch, a “Grey’s Anatomy” Convention, a quilting bee, or to a family get together, you have to suck it up and get through it. at situations from a humorous perspective instead of an irritated perspective can help alleviate the stress associated with it. If Aunt Tilda goes off on one of her political tangents again, don’t get steamed. Just sit back, listen (even if everything she says completely contradicts your beliefs), and practice your deep breathing. (I would avoid laughing out loud in situations like this, but a slight smirk isn’t going to hurt anyone).

3) Swear a lot in the car on the way there. Yes, this sounds crass, but it works for me. Maybe you’re not a person who swears. That’s fine; pick something else to repeat in the car. You’d be surprised at how much more you can deal with (and chuckle about) when

a breeze. If they fail, however, calmly let yourself outside and go for a walk where you can curse, complain and give yourself a bit of exercise. It’s amazing what a breath of fresh air can do for the attitude.

M: Hey, hey Mikey! Sorry, I had to get that out of the way. Well, here’s the scoop: When you reach a certain age and enter a committed relationship, sometimes you have to do things you really don’t want to do. Among them, going places you really don’t want to go.

Whether it’s the Arboretum, the International Dollhouse Museum, the gynecologist, a pumpkin patch, a “Grey’s Anatomy” Convention, a quilting bee, or to a family get together, you have to

This works both ways. I’m sure you drag her places she’s not psyched to go, but, it’s about compromise. I would articulate – nicely – to you girlfriend how you feel, and what it’s like for you to visit her family. This way, she can take the opportunity to try to make your stay a little more comfortable for you.

I would also recommend hanging out with the “cool” uncle as much as possible. I would just block out all the rude family members and concentrate on tearing it up with the “Uncle Jesse” uncle (yes, my friend, that is a “Full House” reference).

Have a question for Tove and Mammenga?

E-mail HeSaidSheSaid@605magazine.com

DECEMBER 2009 I 605 MAGAZINE

31

VS.

Carrie Bradshaw and Fantasy Foes

T

his fall, FX launched a new show called “The League,” a raunchy comedy that further lowered the odds of me reading a book on a Thursday night.1 In the promotional buildup to its premiere, “The League” promised a heavy dose of fantasy football, relationship neglect caused by fantasy football, and other miscellaneous displays of male stupidity.

The strange thing about “The League” is that what I presumed to be the show’s central theme was both highly attractive and seemingly unsustainable.2 In other words, as much as I’m obsessed with fantasy football, how could statistic management and geeky trash talk possibly provide meaningful story lines?3 Thus far, the “The League’s” offerings (I believe its season finale is scheduled for December 10th) have largely validated that concern.

Aside from loosely developed themes of thirty-something adult responsibility, the show is really nothing more than a shallow exhibition of vulgar male jocularK o t z e a ity. The pleasant surprise, however, is that it’s actually decent comedy.

What makes “The League” watchable is that it captures the essence of “guys being guys” within the comfort zone of a close-knit crew. It’s arguably the male equivalent to “Sex and the City,” except interesting. And that’s not macho posturing. I could cite endless examples of “chick flicks” and other female-leaning entertainment that I find enjoyable, e.g., “Love Actually,” “The Family Stone,” “Mean Girls,” and “The Hills.” But “Sex and the City,” as opposed to other programming “strong enough for a man, but PH balanced for a woman,” is bor32

LIFE I IN THE MATTER OF NICK KOTZEA

ing, redundant and absurdly stupid, almost as appalling as “Grey’s Anatomy.”

Whether “The League” rises to the level of a “keeper”4 is yet to be seen, but it has undoubtedly shown the same flashes of crude brilliance that make movies like “The Hangover” such a compelling watch. “The League” and “The Hangover” are part of a so-called “bromance” trend, a term increasingly used by movie critics and pop culture commentators in reference to what used to simply be called “buddy films.”

The popular thinking goes that the “bromance” genre is the product of ex-hippie mothers and a growing acceptance of the homosexual lifestyle, which have created an atmosphere that allows heterosexual men to more freely celebrate their friendships without fear of being perceived as gay. There1

fore, “bromances” are said to display an unprecedented level of heterosexual chumminess. The irony, of course, is that many allegedly “bromantic” films (e.g., anything Judd Apatow touches) are filled with homosexual slurs.

I guess I’m not really concerned with exploring the validity of theories behind “bromances,” and, from a consumer standpoint, I don’t really care how these films are labeled. It is hardly a novel observation that guys are governed by a delightfully unrelenting system of sarcasm and spirited insults.5 If overt expressions of warmth and support were defining elements of male friendship, I estimate my buddy situation would be bleaker than Lindsay Lohan’s prospects of becoming the next mayor of Tehran.

That’s just how guys operate. And the grass is green, and the

Seriously, it’s disgusting. As I write this column, I’m looking forward to a Thursday night that consists of the following programming: “The Office” (30 minutes), “30 Rock” (30 minutes), “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” (30 minutes), “Parks and Recreation” (30 minutes), “The League” (30 minutes), and a Thursday night NFL game between Chicago and San Francisco (ballpark: 3 hours). This list constitutes “must-watch” programming, omitting a number of decent shows that might otherwise make the cut on, say, a Tuesday night. Speaking of “The Office,” and seeing no other way of incorporating this into a column, how about Erin? In my opinion, she is knocking on Pam’s doorstep in terms of office cutie. In her limited role, she’s shown flashes of greatness. Sure, Pam will still get you your 3.5 yards per carry, but as long as Erin keeps getting quality touches, I’m prepared to see a timeshare.

2 Similarly, when ABC announced its intent to convert GEICO’s famed cavemen into network sitcom stars, my visceral enthusiasm was tempered by reasonable doubt. Conceptually, in light of the brilliantly executed wit with which GEICO’s inspirational commercials were executed, modern, urbanite cavemen incessantly battling classic Neanderthal stereotypes seemed, on one hand, like a promisingly clever sitcom premise. But, as was confirmed by a meager, six-episode run, “Cavemen” hadn’t the depth to last as a show.

3 I’ve come to terms with the fact that it is impossible to sound cool endorsing fantasy football to non-participants.

It’s like my interest in HBO’s “True Blood” and the “Twilight” series. In the event I want people to believe I live in my parents’ basement, I’ll definitely turn to ceaselessly raving about vampire love stories and fake sports team management.

4 If you don’t get this reference, congratulations, you have a life.

5 See the recent Budweiser television advertisements.

...GUYS NEED FRIENDS JUST AS MUCH AS THEY NEED BETTER HALVES.

Both provide direction, and both are indispensable. A thoughtful girlfriend might encourage exercise and basic male hygiene. But it’s a good buddy who will supplement that advice with a clear reminder that roller blading and dressing like a seasonal Gap commercial are unequivocally lame activities. sky is blue, and Phish bumper stickers might as well read, “Drugs inside.”

There’s something oddly harmonious about the banter that tends to erupt when a group of guys are left unchecked by the fairer sex. It’s ruthless camaraderie. It’s stupid, yet it sharpens one’s wits.

Where there are friends and a happy hour, there is a manhood indictment screaming to take place.

It must be understood that guys are incapable of autonomously functioning in a civilized society, says the sweeping generalization. But guys need friends just as much as they need better halves.

Both provide direction, and both are

indispensable. A thoughtful girlfriend might encourage exercise and basic male hygiene. But it’s a good buddy who will supplement that advice with a clear reminder that rollerblading and dressing like a seasonal Gap commercial are unequivocally lame activities.

The balanced system works, and it becomes painfully obvious when a guy loses that equilibrium.

Shows like “The League,” “How I Met Your Mother” and other bromantic endeavors are driven by the transitional scariness of one’s late 20s and early 30s. It’s really an age-old commentary fueled by the awkward tensions cre-

ated when guys settle down at different paces. And it’s valuable because it is comedy that, properly executed, intelligently captures a real dynamic, rich with material. I think that’s pretty cool, but not quite as cool as your man scarf.

Did your girlfriend buy you that, or did you just steal it from her closet?

Nick Kotzea, 27, is a lawyer who lives and works in Pierre, S.D. He proudly graduated from the University of South Dakota, and he may be reached at Nick.

Kotzea@gmail.com.

DECEMBER 2009 I 605 MAGAZINE 33

F

Crafty un:

A Budget Holiday Party

By Joanna Halverson

Y

ou and your buddies want a holiday party, but the last four years have been spent dressing nicely, sitting in a room with gingerbreadscented candles, munching cookies and politely making small talk. After two hours you make polite excuses to leave, dusting cookie crumbs from your good clothes and say you will not spend another holiday the same way again. Well, until next year.

You need a novel idea for a holiday party but ideas and funding are scarce. No help from the office, as business holiday parties are going from all-you-can-eat to BYOB. What’s the skinny on holiday parties on a budget?

Last year, I wanted to make all my gifts to save money, and opted for a household good that everybody with a pair of lips can use-- a coffee mug. However, it sounded about as personal as a bottle of lotion, so I opted to decoupage the mugs with pictures, wrapping paper and cutouts from magazines.

Email and text all your buddies and tell them bring their own mugs--any plain, solid color coffee cup from Target or Walmart, usually about $3. A person can really personalize any household item they want- picture frame, candle holder, mirror. Requirement: a flat surface at least three inches wide.

Buy holiday wrapping paper and decoupage glue, Mod Podge (Hobby Lobby or Michaels.) I prefer wrapping paper that isn’t “holiday sensitive” so the gift recipient can use the item year-round; instead of wrapping paper with menorahs, mittens or snowflakes may keep the item out for a few months longer. You’ll also need several small paint brushes.

Pour through old magazines and newspapers. Cut out funny headlines, pictures, celebrities, whatever.

In a large room (someone’s basement or garage) set up several party tables. Have a couple holiday movies on deck and a favorite holiday CD in the stereo.

First, have everybody paint a thin layer of the glue all over the mug, let it dry for about 15 minutes. Next, everybody can dig through the cut-outs and use the Mod Podge to glue on pictures, wrapping paper, whatever 34

LIFE I CRAFTY FUN

they want to personalize the mug for a gift. After finishing with the pictures, go over the entire mug with one last layer of Mod Podge. Holiday gift crossed off the list and your buddies get to bond. Plus, you look especially generous and creative. Bonus.

Granted, the idea is kind of third-grade, but who doesn’t like saving money on holiday shopping? Also, male party invites generally aren’t very artsy, so for your party hopefuls with a Y chromosome, set up the video games (or bar games) in the other room and let them be. After everyone is finished, you can all watch a holiday movie and let the mugs dry.

All together, you really only need to pay for the Mod Podge, the paint brushes, and some holiday treats to share with everyone. Novel holiday party idea, cheap Christmas gift idea, and bonding time with buddies. Tis the season.

Image courtesy of JoAnna Halverson

E x t e n d e d Relief Why You Should Buy A House Now

By Molly Keen

T

his article is about a part of the economic stimulus plan. But don’t stop reading yet! You will want to know about this one, especially if you’re tired of paying rent.

We’re all sick of hearing about the economy because (1) it’s depressing and (2) it’s impossible to keep up with all of the ups and downs and stimulus plan jargon. But Congress recently passed a bill that can affect you in a very real (and very good) way. Here is the who, what, when, why, and how of the extension of the Home Buyer Federal Tax Credits. I promise, what follows is all good news and no jargon.

Who? There are two tax credits: one applies to first time home buyers and the other applies to repeat home buyers. In order to qualify as a first time home buyer, you can’t have owned a

home for three years prior to purchasing your new one. Fedup renters, that means you. Already own a home? You may still be eligible for a $6,500 credit if you have lived there for five out of the last eight years. Either of these sound like you? Keep reading.

What?

The simple definition: A tax credit of up to $8,000 for first time home buyers or $6,500 for repeat buyers. Yes, that means the government will give you money for buying a house.

Now for the nitty gritty: The credit will be equal to 10 percent of the price of the house up to $8,000 (for first timers) or $6,500 (for repeats). Houses priced at $800,000 or less qualify. Wondering about income limitations? You can claim the full tax credit if your income is $125,000 or less

as single buyer or $225,000 or less for couples. If you make more than that (lucky you!) you are still eligible for a portion of the credit up until $145,000 for singles or $245,000 for married couples. The best part of it all? As long as you live in your new home for three years or more, the tax credit will never need to be repaid.

When?

The eligibility period for the tax credit is for homes purchased between November 6, 2009 and May 1, 2010. However, home purchases subject to a binding sales contract signed by April 30, 2010 will qualify for the tax credit provided closing occurs prior to July 1, 2010.

Why? Why is the government handing out money? The original tax credit passed in early 2009 helped to jump-start the nationwide housing market and boost the overall economy, so Congress decided to keep the ball rolling. The extension of the tax credit will continue to drive the housing market and create jobs. Mike Hoffman, 2009 President of the Home Builders Association of the Sioux Empire, explains, “On a national level, extending and enhancing the home buyer tax credit will spur an additional hundreds of thousands of home sales, generate the production of more than 80,000 homes and perhaps most importantly, create nearly 350,000 jobs in the coming year. That’s just the right prescription to get the American economy back on track.”

Long story short; it is a win-win for both you and the economy.

How? You can claim the tax credit on your 2009 or 2010 income tax return.

It’s a simple concept: the government wants to give you money to buy a house now. But if you’re serious about buying a new home, have a chat with a tax professional, banker, realtor, or mortgage lender to clear up any questions. Buying a house sounds daunting, but you may be financially better off in the long run by buying rather than continuing to rent.

For more details, visit the Home Builders Association of the Sioux Empire’s website at www.hbasiouxempire.com and click on Home Buyer Tax Credits.

LIFE I EXTENDED RELIEF 35

Is it time to

THINGS The thought of bringing your significant other home for the holidays makes you: a. excited to have your immediate and extended family get to know them. b. cringe. That means it’s getting serious, and you’re definitely not looking for that. c. nervous. You’re worried your family will judge you.

Hanging out with your significant other: a. is a chore… you have too much going on. b. is never enough time together. c. can be unbearable. You fight all of the time.

Your ex: a. is a friend you talk to once in a while. b. is someone you think about often lately and you have texted them once or twice to see what they are doing. c. is someone you tend to compare your current significant other with. You sometimes wonder why you broke up.

When it comes to giving and taking, your partner: a. tends to do all the taking... that’s how they’ve told you they’ve always been and you need to accept it. b. is always giving you gifts, taking you out, buying movie tickets, etc.

It’s nice to not have to do anything. c. is usually on an even keel with paying and getting you presents for special occasions.

Your friends: a. love your significant other and have nothing but great things to say about him or her. b. miss you since you haven’t been around since you two started dating. c. don’t like to be around you when you’re with them because they can’t stand them.

IT’S TIME… You know it can’t be good if you don’t put forth effort, have wandering eyes, and/or your friends don’t even like them. It’s the holidays. Now is the best time to let them go.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS 0-3 Points

It seems like everything is going well with you and your significant other. Enjoy the holidays and Ugly Sweater parties in happy bliss!!

40

LIFE I QUIZ: IS IT TIME TO END THINGS?

REEVALUATION TIME 4-6 Points

If you’re not sure about taking the next step to having your significant other be around for the holidays or you are doing most of the taking in the relationship, it might be time to think about if you’re happy where you’re at. Make sure you’re both putting the same effort into it or get out.

ANSWERS: 1.) a. 0 b. 2 c. 1, 2.) a. 1 b. 0 c. 2, 3.) a. 0 b. 1 c. 2, 4.) a. 2 b. 1 c. 0, 5.) a. 0 b. 1 c. 2

7-10 Points

Polka dots. Is this a circus?

Shoes with no support.

Mango. Yawn.

Paisley. So hot right now.

Shoes that help shape your buns and legs just by walking.

EasyTone, please!

Bacon. Bacon floss, bacon soap, bacon lipgloss... it’s everywhere!

Noticed Trend of The Month: Bedazzled items. Use wisely. < Too soon?

FASHION I WHAT’S BOSS/GET LOST 41

Gifts On A Dime.

You don’t have to go broke this holiday season. Check out these clever gifts from local stores to give that don’t exceed $50.

Images by Candace Ann Photography

A B

C

A E

D

A Rings $15 each at Sticks and Steel B Bracelet $17 at Posh Boutique C Coffee Mug w/ spoon $14 at Sticks and Steel.

D Necklace $16 at Ten Thousand Villages E Moose Head $16. at Zandbroz Variety F Hanky Panky $19 each at AMaVo Boutique.

42

FASHION I GIFTS ON A DIME

F

$20 and Under

$30 and Under A

B

C D

E

F

G

A Shirt $29 at Halberstadt’s At The Mall B Pillow $30 at Sticks and Steel C Scarf $29 at AMaVo Boutique D Mr. Bacon’s Big Adventure $21.50 at Zandbroz Variety E Hat $29 at AMaVo Boutique F Scarf $24 at Ten Thousand Villages G Shirt $29 at Halberstadt’s At The Mall

DECEMBER 2009 I 605 MAGAZINE 43

A

B

C

D

A Juicy Couture Charm $39 B Flask-in-a-Bible $33 at Zandbroz Variety C Photo wall hook $33 at Sticks and Steel D Shirt $38 at Posh Boutique E Sweater $37 at Posh Boutique.

F Smoking Mittens, $33 from Zandbroz Variety

E F

$40 and under 44

FASHION I GIFTS ON A DIME

$50 and under D A

B

C

E

F

A Lamp $50.48 at Ten Thousand Villages B Gloves $45 at Sticks and Steels C Juicy charm bracelet $49 at AMaVo Boutique D Bracelet $46.50 at Zandbroz Variety E PJ Pants $49 at AMaVo Boutique F Sweater $50 at Halberstadtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s At The Mall

DECEMBER 2009 I 605 MAGAZINE 45

What ?

YO U’R E

Allergic to

A Guide to Celiac Disease (Gluten Intolerance)

By Sabina Mustic

P

icture yourself going home for the holidays and not being able to eat the buns, gravy or yummy pies your family is eating. You look at the food, everyone digging in, but all you can do is watch while your mouth waters. This is reality for many people suffering from gluten intolerance, or celiac disease, a serious autoimmune condition.

Gluten what? you may wonder. Well, gluten is a protein found in grains such as rye, wheat, barley, and triticale. It is used in food processing, because it binds, stabilizes and prevents crumbling. This means gluten is in bread, pasta, crackers, pie crusts, and even gravy, among many other foods.

When ingested by an allergic individual, it triggers an abnormal immune response that damages the villi in the small intestine. Since food is absorbed through the villi, damage to it can lead to malabsorption of nutrients from food. This can lead to many serious health problems such as infertility, reduced bone density, neurological disorders, and some cancers.

According to Dr. Chandar Singaram, an independent gastroenterologist in Sioux Falls, there are two different theories of why people develop celiac disease. “There are certain people that have the disease run in the family. People from Scandinavian countries and Egypt are more prone to this disease. The second theory is that some people may get a viral infection, like the stomach flu, and after that some of the immune cells might get confused, and they might think that gluten is still a virus,” explained Dr. Singaram.

Celiac disease can start manifesting at any age. You may be perfectly fine, and then one day you become gluten intolerant. Dr. Singaram said, “Most people get symptoms between the age of 12 and 30.”

Some of the symptoms include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, fatigue, certain vitamin deficiencies, weight loss or weight gain, joint pains, and occasionally liver disease.

Symptoms of this disease are similar to many other bowel disorders, so it is easily misdiagnosed. According to Dr. Singaram, “This is one of the top 10 missed diseases in the United States.”

Celiac disease often times mimics other gastrointestinal conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastric ulcers, Crohn’s disease, parasite infection, and anemia. However, a simple blood test can detect it. “The gold standard of testing 46

HEALTH I CELIAC DISEASE

is an upper endoscopy and taking a biopsy of the small intestine,” said Dr. Singaram.

Celiac disease is mainly treated by eliminating gluten from the affected individual’s diet. There is no cure. When gluten is removed from a diet, the inflammation in the small intestine begins to subside, and people usually start feeling better in just a few days. In some cases, individuals have to take

vitamin and mineral supplements to correct any deficiencies caused by the disease.

People with minor gluten sensitivity can be cured, though.

According to Dr. Singaram, “If you keep them off gluten for a while, then the immune cells get repaired and people can take gluten again.”

So what can people with gluten intolerance eat, you may wonder? Well, they can eat almost everything we eat: Meat, rice, fruits and vegetables are gluten-free, for example. Also, there are many gluten-free products on the market today, such as bread, pasta, cookies, pizza, soups, gravies, and countless other products.

People who suffer from gluten intolerance, or celiac disease, do not have to miss out on delicious meals. To make the foods we all love to eat enjoyable for everyone takes some planning, as well as modifying recipes. There are plenty gluten-free recipes on the Web as well as Web sites that provide support and information about celiac disease.

Celiac Disease Facts • Celiac disease is an autoimmune digestive disease that damages the villi of the small intestine and interferes with absorption of nutrients from food.

• One in 133 Americans has celiac disease.

• 3 million Americans across all races, ages and genders suffer from celiac disease.

• 95 percent of celiacs are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed with other conditions.

• 10 years is the average time a person waits to be correctly diagnosed.

•17 percents of celiac patients have an immediate family member who also has celiac disease.

• Celiac disease can lead to a number of other disorders, including infertility, reduced bone density, neurological disorders, some cancers, and other autoimmune diseases.

• $5,000-$12,000 is the average cost of misdiagnosis per person/per year of celiac, not including lost work time.

• There are NO pharmaceutical cures for celiac disease.

• A 100 percent gluten-free diet is the only existing treatment for celiac today.

• A positive attitude, 100 percent of the time, helps celiacs create a gluten-free lifestyle for themselves and their affected family members.

• 500,000 new celiac diagnoses are expected to occur in the next five years, thanks to efforts to raise public awareness of celiac disease.

• The gluten-free marketplace is expected to reach $1.7 billion by 2010 thanks to new vendors manufacturing better tasting and more affordable products.

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Boulder *9,,2

Townhomes

605.759.6257

41st Street & Grinnell Avenue Sioux Falls, SD www.midwestpropertyservices.com

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Source: celiaccentral.org

DECEMBER 2009 I 605 MAGAZINE 47

UP

Belly Dancing is Both Alluring and Beneficial

W

ith fall in full swing and winter looming around the corner, many of us are looking for new ways to spice up our exercise plan as the weather begins to move us indoors. To help with this predicament, DANCE Ballroom and Studio offers a range of belly dancing classes, open to both men and women, from beginner to intermediate, as well as classes directed toward pregnant mothers.

As a low-impact type of dance and conditioning, belly dancing is a form of traditional Middle Eastern folk dance.

As it serves to strengthen and tone the entire body, belly dancing primarily focuses on the core. In addition to the fitness benefits of dancing, this pastime can improve one’s flexibility and rhythm, aspects many students find beneficial to their self-image and self-esteem.

“I started belly dancing almost six years ago. I was living in Arizona at the time, and some friends suggested we take some belly dance lessons. I did and fell in love with it,” says DANCE Ballroom and Studio instructor Laurie Rogers.

Along with Rogers, Ahva Halma, a registered nurse, also

As a low-impact type of dance and conditioning, belly dancing is a form of traditional Middle Eastern folk dance. As it serves to strengthen and tone the entire body, belly dancing primarily focuses on the core. offers several belly dancing classes. Halma became interested in belly dancing while in college at the University of California San Diego. That was 34 years ago, and she’s still dancing and instructing in the Sioux Falls area.

Belly dancing began to gain popularity in the United States during the 1960s. Often viewed as seductive or risqué, this form of Middle Eastern dance became highly eroticized.

As it grew in popularity, belly dancing began to appear in 48

HEALTH I BELLY UP!

By Whitni Ciofalo

ethnic clubs in major cities. Eventually, this traditional folk dance found its way into dance studios, fitness centers and onto primetime TV.

Image by Dan Thorson These days, belly dancing is often associated with the hipshaking Shakira or Akon’s hit R&B single. There is an air of sexiness and lewdness surrounding the dance. Perhaps it’s the perceived focus on the pelvic region. Or maybe it’s just our hidden desire to get out and move, to shake our hips, to feel the music, to be carefree and expressive, to feel sexy.

Whatever the reason, there is no denying that belly dancing is an alluring, alternative way to go about personal fitness. So, next time Akon is singing about his girl shaking it on your radio, take it as a friendly reminder to get out, get active and try something different. Even if you lack Shakira’s sultry voice, it does not mean that you cannot enjoy unique belly dancing classes for some weekly exercise.

Beginner lessons are offered at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays and 5 p.m. on Sundays. Intermediate classes are held at 6 p.m. on Sunday evenings, and there are also classes for pregnant mothers on Saturday mornings. Lessons start at $12 per lesson or $60 for six. For more information, contact DANCE Ballroom and Studio located at East 57th and Cliff Avenue or visit their Web site www.askmetodance5678.com.

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Be Your Own

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