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YOUR SPACE
Discover the art of transformation at Grassland Granite and our sister company, TruFinish Woodworx! As a family-owned and operated business, we take pride in bringing your vision to life with our stunning array of products and exceptional service.
Explore our expansive showrooms located in Aberdeen and Watertown, SD. Here, you can browse full-size slabs of exquisite granite, quartz, quartzite, and porcelain countertops. Each location showcases elegant cabinet displays, a wide variety of flooring options, tile backsplashes, and an extensive selection of cabinet hardware, faucets, and sinks.
WATERTOWN SHOWROOM
605-886-3605 12 19th St NE, Watertown, SD 57201
SHOWROOM 605-725-3605 1110 1st Ave SE, Aberdeen, SD 57401
605's Greta Smith peruses local knick knacks at Knotty Gnome in Hartford. See more of the one-of-a-kind shop on page 82.
ABOUT
CO-FOUNDER + DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Alana Snyder
CO-FOUNDER + DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY & CINEMATOGRAPHY
John Snyder
SALES & ACCOUNT MANAGER
Greta Smith
MULTIMEDIA DESIGNER + PHOTOGRAPHER
Cailyn Patterson
MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
Joe Hiatt
CONTRIBUTOR
Emily Carrels Photography
COVER IMAGE
CIRCULATION
Coralie Richards
Downtown Aberdeen
Evie Doyle
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Huron Camber & Visitors Bureau
Jeffrey Herbert
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Mitchell Area Chamber of Commerce
Visit Brookings Visit Watertown
Zach Walters
ADVERTISING INQUIRIES
(605) 274-1999 ex. 4 sales@605magazine.com
Featuring Paul Squyer of Myrtle’s Fur Vault & Bar. More of the 605 Best on page 16. Taken by 605's John Snyder.
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605's Cailyn Patterson snaps food shots at Perch in the Cathedral Historic District of Sioux Falls. See more of the popular brunch (and now lunch) spot on page 70.
YANKTON, SOUTH DAKOTA LAKESIDE VIEWS
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6
Things
to do in December & January
Due to the possibility of cancellations, please check event websites & social media posts before attending.
1 December 5-7, 12-14, 19-21
2Community Christmas Tree Lighting
& Santa
December 6
Outlaw Square • Deadwood • 3 p.m.
Celebrate the holiday season and the fifth anniversary of Outlaw Square! Enjoy activities like free ice skating 3-5 p.m., s’more making, holiday treats and cocoa from 5-7 p.m., and half-price bumper car rides 5-9 p.m. Don’t miss a visit from Santa Claus himself with gifts at 6:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: OUTLAWSQUARE.COM.
32024 Inaugural Oahe Winter Festival
December 7
Pierre & Fort Pierre • Various Locations • Times Vary
The 2024 Oahe Winter Festival will be the inaugural event for what Pierre and Fort Pierre hope will become a long-lived holiday tradition in the area. Saturday will be filled with festivities around the community, as well as live entertainment, a scavenger hunt, activities, and vendors in the historic downtown area. Stop in to Lee Real Estate and The American Legion Post 8 to register for a huge door prize, and see a wide range of vendors! After the vendor show, make sure to stop back at the Legion at 7 p.m. to end the night with live music performed by Cody Hullinger MORE INFO: PIERRE.ORG.
4Sioux Falls SantaCon
Watertown Mall | West End
Watertown • Times Vary Santaland
Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday until December 21, believe in the magic of Christmas at Santaland. This event isn’t just about a quick photo with Santa Claus—it’s an immersive experience. Take a tour of the “ North Pole,” and give the gift of holiday magic to your family. Admission is free, and donations are accepted. MORE INFO: WATERTOWNSD.COM.
December 21
Downtown • Sioux Falls • 4 p.m.
After a brief hiatus, Sioux Falls SantaCon is making its much-anticipated return this holiday season to downtown Sioux Falls! Dust off your Santa hats, dig out festive attire, and join the festive group for a jolly night of holiday cheer, laughter, and community fun. Stops include PAve, Club David, WILEYS, and Icon Event Hall + Lounge MORE INFO: FACEBOOK.COM.
5New Year's Eve in Deadwod
December 31 - January 1
Downtown • Deadwood • Times Vary
Celebrate the new year in historic Deadwood. Find live bands, nightclub music, drink specials, and thousands-upon-thousands of dollars in giveaways and promotions up and down the cobblestone streets. Stay tuned to the Deadwood website for updates on New Year’s Eve parties happening around town. At midnight, bid adieu to the old year as the ball drops at the veranda of the Historic Franklin Hotel on Main Street—a Deadwood tradition. MORE INFO: DEADWOOD.COM.
6
12th Annual
Burning Beetle
January 18
Pageant Hill • Custer • 5:30 p.m.
Get ready to chant “burn, beetle, burn” at the 12th Annual Burning Beetle in Custer. This winter South Dakota tradition has hundreds gather to torch a giant, wooden beetle effigy to raise awareness of the destructive impact of the Mountain Pine Beetle on the Black Hills forest. The 2025 itinerary has yet to be announced, but there is typically a variety show at Custer High School Theater at 3:30 p.m., a gathering for the Torch March at Custer High School parking lot at 5 p.m., and the official burning of the beetle at 5:30 p.m. The event ends with a Bug Crawl starting around 6 p.m. at various locations in downtown Custer. MORE INFO: FACEBOOK.COM.
*All photos for 6 Things are submitted by the event or its promoter unless otherwise noted.
DECEMBER & JANUARY EVENTS
ABERDEEN
5
DAKOTA SANTA & MRS. CLAUS NIGHT
Dakotaland Federal Credit Union, Aberdeen. 4 p.m. Visitaberdeensd.com.
13
CHRISTMAS AT THE DEPOT (INCLUDING SANTA & MRS. CLAUS)
Chicago & North Western Historic Railroad Depot, Aberdeen. 10 a.m. Tourism. redfield-sd.com.
The Goss Opera House, Watertown. 6:30 p.m. Thegossoperahouse.com.
WORTHING 2-5
SEASONAL ALLERGIES
Olde Towne Dinner Theatre, Worthing. Times vary. Oldetownetheatre.org.
YANKTON
10
NMM LIVE! | WHITE SPRUCE CHAMBER PLAYERS
National Music Museum, Vermillion. Noon. Nmmusd. org.
26
STEPS FOR LIFE AWARENESS & PREVENTION WALK
Ruth Donohoe First Dakota Fieldhouse, Mount Mary University, Yankton. 6:30 p.m. Yanktonsd.com.
Elevate your event at Main Street Square, offering versatile options for every style and size, from intimate gatherings to bustling concerts, set amidst the vibrant energy of Downtown Rapid City. CALL
WARM UP TO
Winter Recreation
The fun doesn’t stop when the temperatures drop in Deadwood! Terry Peak Ski Resort is your familyfriendly stop for skiing and snowboarding and features 30 trails and a terrain park.
If you’re looking to explore the hills, there are plenty of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. You can also grab something with a little more power and head out to the hundreds of miles of nearby marked and groomed snowmobile trails.
Feel like staying in town? Outlaw Square is located at 703 Main Street and hosts an ice skating rink and bumper cars all winter long! Bring your own skates or rent some from the gazebo on location.
Try Your Luck
Play the latest slots, live table games, roulette, and craps at a variety of casinos and resort hotels located on and around Historic Main Street.
It is no secret that slot machines are the most common casino game in Deadwood. Progressive systems link the same machines throughout town creating an ever-growing jackpot amount, but not all casinos in Deadwood offer the same games so have fun playing them all!
While not every casino in town offers table games, there are still a multitude of options to choose from. You can find live poker games, BlackJack, Roulette, and Craps to try your luck, and if you are new to table games, you can always find a table at a slower time and ask the dealers to help you learn the basics.
WINTER IN DEADWOOD
Shopping, Saloons, and Live Entertainment
There are plenty of shops and boutiques for all your retail therapy needs, with over 15 stores on Main Street alone. Find antiques, vintage and trendy clothing, fine gifts, Black Hills Gold jewelry, souvenirs, and just about everything you can imagine. There are also local shops featuring artwork, fine pottery, glassware, and Native American art.
Need a break from all the play? Dining in Deadwood is sure to have something for everyone. From fine dining to casual eats, you can expect to enjoy your meal no matter where you choose. If you’re looking for a place to wet your whistle, you can enjoy your favorite cocktail, brew, local wines, and microbrews in some of the same saloons and bars as the legends of Deadwood.
Entertainment is year-round! A number of bars and pubs throughout the town offer live music. You might even be lucky enough to catch a concert at Deadwood Mountain Grand Events Center, where some of the big name acts have been known to put on a great show.
Big Events, Bigger Fun
There’s always something happening in Deadwood, no matter the weather. This winter you can expect epic concerts, huge celebrations, and an action-packed weekend of professional snowmobile racing!
Deadwood Mountain Grand Events Center will host One Night in Memphis: The Tribute to Presley, Perkins, Lewis, and Cash on Saturday, December 28. This high-energy show brings the timeless hits of Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash to life! They also host the Red Dirt Music Festival, slated for January 10-11. This year’s artists include Eli Young Band, Silverada, and Kylie Frey on Friday, and Graham Barham, Them Dirty Roses, and Brandon Jones on Saturday. You can find more information and get your tickets at DeadwoodMountainGrand.com.
The greatest show on snow returns to Deadwood January 24 & 25, 2025 as the ISOC Amsoil Championship Snocross Series hits the Black Hills for the annual Deadwood Snocross Showdown.
More than 300 of the top professional Snocross racers will descend on the historic town’s Deadwood Event Complex for a weekend of high-flying, high-speed, high-octane snowmobile racing. Find more information and get your tickets at DeadwoodSnocross.com.
Celebrate holidays in Deadwood! New Year’s Eve weekend and Mardi Gras are sure to bring the party all over town. Ring in the new year December 28, 2024 – January 1, 2025 in Deadwood with drink specials and a New Year’s Eve ball drop! Then come on back for the best party North of New Orleans for Mardi Gras February 28 – March 1 with a weekend full of free food, a parade, masquerade ball, themed cocktails and live music.
There’s never a dull moment in this historic town, the excitement is year-round! With a little something for everyone, you can bring the whole family and have a fantastic winter getaway. The snowy hills are waiting to welcome you to Deadwood!
Photos Courtesy of: Brittany Schoenfelder, Travel South Dakota, Kinsy Selby, Deadwood.com, Deadwood Mountain Grand (Collin Nixon), and Sara Ramos.
2024
The 605 Best Awards
It’s a hard job, but someone has to do it. The 605 team travels all around South Dakota, finding hidden gems and statewide staples.
The 605 Best Awards are given to people and businesses who 605 feels deserve some recognition, whether it’s eating sweet and savory crêpes at Krave Café in Aberdeen or getting crafty at Knotty Gnome in Hartford.
Written by Alana Snyder
photos
by
605 Magazine
Readers and followers also take a vote for the 605 Best People’s Choice Awards. Here are the winners of 2024.
FOOD & DRINKS
BEST SPECIALTY PIZZA
Jimmy's Pizza
Jimmysaberdeen.com (605) 225-7000
318 6th Ave SW, Aberdeen
Jimmy’s Pizza in Aberdeen has the tagline “best pizza in town,” but it’s arguably one of the best pizzerias in the state. Order takeout or delivery to try hand-crafted staples like Meat Lover’s or Jimmy’s Super Feast , or get adventurous with specialty pizzas like Jalapeño Popper, Crab Rangoon, or Circus Buffalo Chicken. As Aberdeen is known as a top pheasant hunting town nationwide, it’s a must to try Jimmy’s Pheasant Pizza. Check back often for monthly specials.
BEST PLACE TO BRUNCH
Perch
More on page 66.
Eatatperch.com (605) 271-1652
100 S Grange Ave, Sioux Falls
BEST INTERSTATE STOP
Frosty King
Frostykingkimball.com 738 S Main St, Kimball
If you’re driving on I-90 during tourism season, plan your gas stop in Kimball, and stop hungry. The quaint hut with the red roof is “locally owned and loved” by Keileen and Todd Yeaton and serves a large selection of food and desserts. Burgers like the Sticky Burger and King Burger are made with “hand-picked patties” that are processed locally. Other food options include sandwiches like Brenda’s Chicken Sandwich (a 605-fave), Chicken Wraps, Footlongs and Hot Dogs, and all of the baskets (Mini Tacos, Sweet Corn Nuggets, Jalapeño Poppers, Gizzards, and Mini Corn Dogs just to name a few). Save room for their famous ice cream, with options like shakes and malts, Cyclones, sundaes, and more.
BEST EXPANSION
Myrtle's Fur Vault & Bar
Parkersbistro.net (605) 275-7676
208 S Main Ave, Sioux Falls
For 14 years, Parker’s Bistro in Sioux Falls has focused on chef-driven cuisine sourced with local intent and creative craft cocktails. With its popularity, owner Stacy Newcomb longed for more space for the restaurant. In 2020, the building next door became available, and in 2023 Newcomb opened it as Myrtle’s Fur Vault & Bar. Myrtle’s gave the company the ability to add a separate full bar and new dining room, including more seating in the basement. The name pays homage to Newcomb’s grandmother (and wife to Parker), whose lives were defined by Prohibition, the Great Depression, and World War II. The building combines a classic design aesthetic with innovative, hand-crafted drinks, and is “where heritage meets indulgence.”
ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Wood-FiredMangiamo Pizza
Pizzeriamangiamo.com (605) 574-2564
158 Museum Dr, Hill City
People first, community second, and great food always—that’s the motto of Mangiamo Wood-Fired Pizza in Hill City. Owners Deb and Russ Leatherman hand-make their dough from scratch, using fresh ingredients and baking their pizzas in a wood-fired oven from Italy. The Smokin Bear Pizza is a favorite with pepperoni and Italian sausage, along with Fire in the Hole with red sauce, shredded cheese blend, pepperoni, jalapeños, roasted red peppers, banana peppers, and hot honey drizz. Don’t miss out on the internationally award-winning Pasta alla Vodka.
Welovekrave.com
Krave Cafe
´
(605) 725-5700
1801 Eisenhower Cir, Aberdeen
Dominika Blum’s beginnings were far from Aberdeen. The creative and entrepreneur was raised in Warsaw, Poland, where she grew up under the shadow of a communist regime.
“I was raised by my mother in an environment where freedom was a luxury, not a right,” she said. “Despite the challenges of communism, my mom and I traveled as often as we could—she was determined to expose me to new experiences and the world around us.”
Her life took a turn at the age of 14 when she and her mother, along with her stepfather, immigrated to the United States.
Blum recalls stepping off of the plane at Chicago O'Hare International Airport and that it “smelled like freedom.”
That freedom didn’t come without challenges, one of them being Blum didn’t speak a word of English.
“After attending summer school for three months, I learned how to communicate in English,” she said.
Blum attended the Institute of Technology in Chicago where she studied architecture and continued her passion for travel. It was through travel that she fell in love with food, showing that “every meal can tell the story of a culture.”
This appreciation for food continued as Blum worked in a Michelin-star restaurant while in college, where she discovered elevated food service went beyond placing a dish in front of a guest—it was about crafting an immersive experience that engages all the senses.
After meeting her husband, John, Blum moved to his hometown of Aberdeen. She says she saw opportunity in her new community, and thus Krave Café was born.
“Together, we share a love for exceptional food, genuine hospitality, and creating a space where guests feel inspired and at home,” said Blum.
The restaurant that “blends European elegance with American spirit” is not just a place to eat, Blum says, it’s a community hub where the experience is just as important as the food.
The pair, who both own the business, transformed an old church building into Krave, keeping only the original foundation, brick, rafters, and studs, and revamped it into a warm, inviting café that reflects Blum’s love for travel, art, and quality.
The menu includes loose-leaf tea, coffee drinks like Café con Miel, Freddo, and Affogato, and will soon offer Boba Tea. Krave is best known for their crêpes, like the Caprese Delight with mozzarella, basil, cherry tomatoes, oil drizzle, balsamic glaze, and herb de Provence. Pay homage to Blum’s first American home with the Chicago, which has caramel, orange, and toasted walnuts.
“Our most ordered crêpes are definitely the Monte Cristo and the Florentine,” said Blum. “The Monte Cristo, with its perfect balance of sweet and savory, is a guest favorite, while the Florentine, with its rich, comforting flavors, is a popular dinner choice.”
Krave also has baked goods, like Biscones, Kookies, Cupcakes, Mini Breads, and more.
Blum says she’s excited to renovate additional kitchen space, which will allow them to expand and to create new offerings like interactive classes. Krave also plans to grow their catering services and host more events.
“There’s so much to look forward to as Krave continues to grow and evolve,” said Blum.
Located in a remote location in Custer State Park, make the scenic hike to see the lone green table and chair overlooking breathtaking South Dakota views. Locals and visitors use the dubbed Poet’s Table to sit back and enjoy nature, while jotting down thoughts or simply signing a name or message. Check out the cupboard full of journals left by hikers who have shared their thoughts from years past. Start the journey at Little Devil’s Tower Parking lot. Visit hiking websites for the best tips to find the majestic locale.
BEST WAY TO SPEND AN AFTERNOON OR EVENING
More on page 42.
Blackhillsplayhouse.com (605) 255-4141
24834 S Playhouse Rd, Custer
BEST COMMUNITY SUPPORTER
Anna Hudelson
For 11 years, Anna Hudelson has been serving the community through the Museum of Visual Materials (MOVM), which has recently been rebranded as Mosaic Arts & Events in Sioux Falls.
“My role is to develop and coordinate educational and creative affordable art opportunities for individuals of all ages with all types of abilities year-round,” said Hudelson.
Every month the education director offers 25 art classes on average for students ranging from preschool children to retirement home attendees.
“I also prepare curbside craft kits for people who can’t make it to a class or need an art project for their group outside of Mosaic,” said Hudelson. “I love sharing my passion for creating art with people of all ages and abilities.”
Some of her favorite art supplies include working with pastels, paint, clay, wood creations, and upcycled materials.
Hudelson says she loves using art to help contribute to children’s holiday memories, as well.
“I have many warm memories during my time here at Mosaic,” said Hudelson. “I think celebrating holidays with children is a special experience with all the different activities we do, from Halloween parties to creating holiday ornaments to drawing
500 N Main Ave, Sioux Falls
leprechaun to storytimes of all kinds!”
One thing Hudelson says some people don’t realize is they’re a non-profit. This is one of the reasons for the October 2024 rebrand from the MOVM to Mosaic.
“Visitors found the old name confusing, and often were expecting a ‘museum’ experience,” she explained. “We feel our new name better communicates what we do, and helps people find us and know they can access classes and events here.”
When she’s not teaching classes, Hudelson is working on classes, and so much more. Her daily activities include coordinating classes, setting them up, taking them down, creating classes, keeping stock of art supplies, planning field trips, creating social media event pages, and updating website events, and whereever else she can help out.
“I also work with activity directors in the community, such as teachers and caregivers of day services, to schedule regular classes for a custom fit for each group’s needs,” she said.
Hudelson says it’s the greatest job to be trusted to create artistic opportunities for others.
She said, “I am thankful I get to create on a daily basis in a supportive environment with individuals who appreciate our efforts.”
BEST ENTERTAINER
Zac Tenneboe
Terror29.com
Zstonish.com (605) 777-1730
1420 E Cedar St, Brandon
Zac Tenneboe has been entertaining South Dakota for decades, beginning as mentalist and comedy hypnotist Z*STONISH. Tenneboe used his mind-bending talents to create an annual “immersive nightmare” with a haunted house dubbed Terror 29 in 2022. Bringing together a community of Halloween enthusiasts, the entrepreneur decided to open a storefront in Brandon dedicated to those who love to shop for thrills with the Terror 29 Mystery Shop of Horrors & Curiosities. The creepiness doesn’t stop there horror lovers can experience the Terror 29 Spook Show December 7, 13, and 14 for a 50 minute show that only allows 13 guests. Are you brave enough?
BEST IN TOURISM
Mistie Caldwell
Visitspearfish.com (605) 717-9294
603 N Main St, Spearfish
Mistie Caldwell has been with Visit Spearfish since its inception in 2009, and serves as the executive director, overseeing the operations of the company and ensuring the efforts of the staff align with the organization’s mission. Ever since she started her position, Caldwell has brought synergy to the area, bringing together community leaders and “working toward a better Spearfish.” If you enter the visitor center, it’s more than likely she’ll be there to greet you herself, and if she’s not, she’s working with members and/or is literally on the streets working events like Chinook Days, Downtown Friday Nights, and Vette Street USA . Spearfish continues to evolve, and we know she’s one of the reasons why.
BEST FANDOM
Shane Gerlach
Siouxpercon.com
Sioux Falls
For 10 years, Shane Gerlach has been an advocate for communication, creativity, inclusivity, and “all things geek” with SiouxperCon in Sioux Falls. Gerlach watched the event grow from a hotel basement with around 1,000 to over 11,000 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center. The event has had a $1.3 million impact on the community, bringing in guests from all over the country and abroad, and has hosted over 175 guests, including Walter Koenig from the original Star Trek and Academy Award-winning actor Doug Jones. SiouxperCon has also made an impact with non-profits by raising over $40,000 for Make-A-Wish South Dakota and Montana, the JY6 Foundation, and REACH Literacy. After all of his hard work, Gerlach will hand over the reins as convention director to longtime attendee and volunteer Spencer Kaul, who will take over in time for S10uxperCon X next September.
BEST PODCASTER
John Meyer
Johntmeyer.com
Sioux Falls
If you’ve met John Meyer, you know he wears many hats. The Sioux Falls entrepreneur (proudly raised in Brookings) co-built two marketing agencies, Lemonly and 9 Clouds, and sold both for seven-figure exits, is the executive director of Leadership South Dakota, runs his leadership coaching program for solopreneurs, Leadmore, and is the host of the Leadmore Podcast. Not only that, but he frequently speaks at events. Put those all together, and that might be a reason why his podcast has drawn in over 100 leaders as guests from all industries and backgrounds and has over 90,000 views and downloads and continuing.
BEST SOUTH DAKOTA SPIRIT
Becky Tomac
Ohgeezdesign.com (605) 209-7088
Keldron
Becky Tomac is the “one-woman company” of Oh Geez! Design in the Black Hills. Started in 2007, the graphic designer began with creating greeting cards for a craft show in her hometown. After opening an Etsy shop, it was clear there was an interest in her products and she started wholesaling to local shops. Now selling a wide range of South Dakota-themed gifts and apparel, Tomac is doing Oh Geez! full time with a recent launch of her new website ohgeezdesign.com. Stay tuned for her new general store in Keldron, which she says will carry grocery items, off-sale beer, snacks, and antique/ vintage items. Oh yeah, and plenty of Oh Geez! and other South Dakota gifts.
PEOPLE'S CHOICE
Sioux Falls
Startupsiouxfalls.com (605) 275-8000
100 E 6th St, Sioux Falls
Along the streets of downtown Sioux Falls, a historic building has been transformed into a place to nurture new ideas. Last year Startup Sioux Falls moved into the downtown community with the intent of supporting entrepreneurs and founders, igniting innovation, and bolstering economic development in South Dakota’s largest city. With the help of supporters like MarketBeat , Lloyd Companies, POET, and SDN Communications, along with the board and staff, entrepreneurs and founders have a place to grow their business and network, remote workers who need a workspace in the community have one, and business organizations that need conference rooms and event spaces now can reserve one. Even more than just the space are the opportunities Startup Sioux Falls provides with a multitude of programs.
CH Patisserie BEST PLACE FOR DESSERT
Chpatisserie.com (605) 275-0090
309 S Phillips Ave, Sioux Falls
If you know, you know. Renowned Chef Chris Hanmer has created a modern pastry shop that offers a showcase of delights, ranging from playful macarons and petit gateaux to croissants, beignets, and other tempting favorites. Known for his artistry and constant innovation, Hanmer has been named one of the Top 10 Pastry Chefs in America, was the winner of Bravo’s Top Chef: Just Desserts, and was a participant in the World Pastry Team Championship. Enjoy your sweets at one of their banquettes or bistro tables and sip on some Spyhouse Coffee, or grab your pastries to-go.
BEST PLACE FOR PIZZA
Charlie's
Pizza House
Charliespizzahouse.com (605) 665-2212
804 Summit St, Yankton (605) 275-2212
6213 S Old Village Pl, Sioux Falls
Voted Best Pizza in South Dakota by Food Network Magazine, Charlie’s Pizza House has been a fixture in Yankton since 1959. Their one-of-a-kind pizzas include the Festus with pepperjackcovered meatballs, jalapeño, and sauerkraut, and the Betty White with artichoke, spinach, parmesan, garlic, alfredo sauce (with the option to add chicken). Try their starters with the popular Cheese Bread and their wings. With the family? Check out Charlie’s Family Night Special! The pizzeria is so popular that owner Chuck Rezac opened a location in Sioux Falls in 2022. If you’re in Yankton, don’t forget to say hi to the restaurant piranha.
605
Vermillion Standstill Parade of Lights
Since 2015, Vermillion has been celebrating Christmas with a special tradition.
The city’s Standstill Parade of Lights takes on its ninth year this winter, inverting the traditional parade style to put on the Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company’s best attended event of the year.
“When the parade begins, the streetlights go out and downtown Vermillion is illuminated entirely by lights from all of our floats,” said Miles Amende, communications and tourism manager for the Chamber.
Rather than having the floats progress down the street, they stand still in the middle of it, allowing parade-goers to explore at their own pace.
“It helps a lot with keeping warm at the event, because instead of sitting on a street corner watching floats pass by while freezing, you get to move around,” notes Amende.
Stops By
Written by Greta Smith +
Photos by John Snyder
Any business, non-profit, or community group in and around Vermillion can enter the parade.
For example, churches, city departments, and even radio stations doing live broadcasts have all been a part of the parade in years past.
In addition to the floats, the parade boasts live entertainment for attendees.
“We have music up and down the street, and a professional sound system installed for the evening, so there’s music everywhere,” shares Amende.
Carolers, a brass quartet from University of South Dakota , and a performance from the Vermillion Area Dance Organization also take place at the Ratingen Platz , a plaza in the middle of the town.
Food and drinks are available at different floats. Amende mentions one year a float had a s’mores-making station, and there is always free cocoa and cookies at the VCDC tent.
“Come
to the event, enjoy it, and just see what Vermillion is like in the holiday season.”
Miles Amende
After the parade-goers have had some time to peruse the floats, the grand finale begins.
Santa , atop a firetruck, comes down Main Street and leads a procession to the Ratingen Platz. Once he reaches the plaza, he gets off the truck and a countdown begins.
At zero, Santa flips the switch to light the Vermillion Christmas tree. Amende says his favorite part every year is this finale.
“You see the lights of the fire truck start flashing, and the crowd parts down the middle,” shares Amende. “Santa and his helpers are on the back of the truck waving, and all of the kids watching from the sidewalk are cheering. It’s just so much fun.”
Miles Amende
“We wanted a parade that was unique to Vermillion, so we came up with the standstill style.”
Virtual Cheer!
The parade is live streamed! To catch the event, tune in on Facebook at /LiveVermillion.
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After the finale, the party continues at the Vermillion Public Library.
Families can go take pictures with Santa, enjoy cookies and cocoa, and do a holiday craft.
“It’s a lot of fun, and it’s a way to get out of the cold and warm up a little bit before everybody goes home,” said Amende.
Though the event is only two hours, a plethora of preparation is necessary. The Chamber handles the street closure, organizing the floats, appointing emcees, finding someone to be Santa, and getting the fire department involved.
“It is a lot of work, and is always worth it,” said Amende.
Other holiday events in Vermillion include the Vermillion Holiday Stroll, which will take place on Thursday, December 12.
The stroll is an event to promote local businesses, which stay open longer to let people get some of their holiday shopping done.
“It's always very cozy during the holiday season in Vermillion.”
Miles Amende
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Standstill Parade of Lights will be on Thursday, December 5 at 6 p.m.
Live music and carolers accompany the stroll, provided by the University of South Dakota.
Another event is the Holiday Pop-Up Shop, which is run by the Davida Art Company Hosted in the First Dakota Coyote Gallery in the Coyote Twin Theater, the shop features goods, and gifts for last minute shopping.
The shop opens after Thanksgiving until Christmas, and carries products like crafts, mugs, trinkets, art, soap, and more.
“We love to direct people there for their holiday shopping because all of the products are from local makers,” shares Amende.
As far as the holiday season goes, Amende says he looks forward to it.
“There are lots and lots of old houses in Vermillion, and people love to decorate,” he continued, “and it all lends itself to this really cozy, quaint vibe that’s really enjoyable.”
To catch the parade, do some local shopping, and experience the holidays in a homey and sentimental way, don’t miss what Vermillion has to offer.
Theater in the Wild
Black Hills Playhouse
Under the Sea
This summer, Black Hills Playhouse’s performing arts camp students will be performing The Little Mermaid Jr.
Since 1946, Black Hills Playhouse has been producing quality theater surrounded by some of South Dakota’s most beautiful views.
“The playhouse began as a dream of Dr. Warren M. Lee of the University of South Dakota,” explained executive director Linda Anderson
Lee’s goals were to create high-quality entertainment for people in the Black Hills while providing training and employment opportunities for both students and theater professionals.
Each year, auditions and interviews are held across the country in search of talented actors, directors, designers, technicians, and interns.
Once selected, these artists live in dorms, rehearse, and build scenery and costumes onsite in picturesque Custer State Park.
Written by Greta Smith +
by John Snyder
Photos
2024’s BHP performance of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas
'Tis the Season
Catch a show this summer:
June 8–22 Murder on the Orient Express
June 29–July 13
Legally Blonde: The Musical
July 20–Aug 3 Waitress
Aug 10–16 The Book of Will
Performances are Tuesday through Sunday throughout the summer, and shows are held in a rustic-feeling 345seat house.
“We foster a dynamic and inclusive environment where creative thinkers and artists collaborate to produce remarkable theater and groundbreaking educational programs that explore the full spectrum of the human experience,” shared artistic director Dan Workman
The playhouse’s typical season consists of two musicals and two non-musicals each summer.
Workman says the theater company balances between family-friendly shows and other, more challenging work that speaks to issues the community is passionate about.
This summer’s lineup consists of Murder on the Orient Express, Legally Blonde: The Musical , Waitress, and The Book of Will
Anderson says this year’s shows are a lot to look forward to: stories of friendship, suspense, joy, and incredible music.
Choosing the shows for each season is a process of research, reading, and community.
“A lot of scripts are read, and musicals are listened to,” shared Workman. “Many conversations take place with numerous people including year-round staff, seasonal staff, and board members.”
Workman aims to choose shows that work well as a whole for logistics and casting.
“It’s very important that Linda and I both support the proposed season, which we give to the Board of Directors, who then discuss and either approve or not,” he said.
In addition to the summer season, Black Hills Playhouse produces shows in Sioux Falls for all ages and abilities.
“Since 1999, we have toured theater education programs to youth in communities large & small statewide.”
Linda Anderson
Summer performing arts camps also bring kids to the Black Hills to hone their skills as they rehearse and perform a show.
If you haven’t made it to a show before at the Black Hills Playhouse, the experience is like none other. Though the theater is committed to providing exceptional quality shows utilizing artists from across
the country, they are also intent upon the experience being casual and friendly to attend.
“People are encouraged to come right off the trails to the theater, and the wildlife roam right through the campus,” said Anderson.
“If you’re lucky, you’ll see a buffalo while you’re there,” she added.
Admit
One
Holiday passes are on sale from Nov 1Dec 31 at their lowest prices of the season:
Stocking Stuffer 2 tickets // $68
Secret Santa 4 tickets // $130
Shout it from the Rooftop 8 tickets // $256
Shining Star 16 tickets // $505
Mary J. Jordan is a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and owner of Encompass Wellness in Sioux Falls and Dakota Dunes, SD. Mary has more than two decades of providing healthcare within the community. She has made it her life’s passion to find the root cause of health problems with a preventative approach using functional medicine. “So many people expect as we age that it is normal to feel unwell,” she explains. “They go to their primary care providers and are told that everything looks ‘normal’ - but they know something isn’t right because they don’t feel well.”
Mary specializes in Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) - using bioidentical hormones for both women and men. When hormones are optimized, we can reverse many ailments that many of us have accepted as a consequence of aging, For women, losing testosterone causes fatigue, weight gain, joint pain, hot flashes, night sweats, brain fog, moodiness, and low libido. Men experience fatigue, weight gain, decreased muscle strength, changes in sleep, ED, and a decreased libido. The important thing we want people to know is that they don’t have to accept this as just a part of aging and that it is reversible.” Each patient has customized
treatment plan based on labs and symptoms. The HRT is bioidentical to what the body makes in the form of a pellet that is the size of a grain of rice. The pellets are placed subcutaneously in the upper buttocks. “Many see relief of symptoms within 1-2 weeks after the pellet insertion.”
Encompass Wellness emphasizes personalized care, using high-quality products and the latest technologies to ensure optimal results for their patients. The newest additions to the clinic are Vtone, FormaV, and Morpheus 8V which are used for vaginal rejuvenation. The Vtone uses electric muscle stimulation (EMS) to tighten the pelvic floor to improve urinary incontinence and frequency. A single treatment is equivalent to 22,000 kegels and is painless. Incontinence affects many women and is a simple solution to an embarrassing issue. When paired with FormaV we can address elasticity and vaginal dryness all in one visit. The treatments are painless with little downtime.
Mary has years of experience with medical weight loss medications as she cared for many diabetics with the medications before they were FDA approved for weight loss. She has created a comprehensive weight loss program that includes in-depth
see if the body is working against you. We offer medical grade vitamins based on patients’ labs to help them reach their goal weight. Our nutrition and exercise regimen are simple and effective. Obtaining a healthy weight reduces the risk for many diseases,” explains Mary. We utilize GLP1’s like semaglutide and tirzepatide along with peptides to increase metabolism and muscle mass which is monitored with our Inbody scale. Many patients that do our HRT and weight loss program report feeling like they are in their 20s again. Encompass Wellness offers many services like adult primary care, laser treatments with hair removal, BBL, ClearSilk, ClearV, and SkinTyte. Botox, filler, IV hydration and more. “Our ultimate goal is to keep patients feeling and looking their best no matter their age.”
Since the playhouse is adjacent to Center Lake Campground—which Anderson claims is one of the best camping spots in the hills—people can camp, walk from the beach or the trail, and see a show.
Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and many other campgrounds, lakes, and trails are practically in the playhouse’s backyard for a day of family fun.
“Plan a date night with someone special, bring a picnic and dine before or after a show, or bring your kids to see live theater,” Anderson recommends.
She also advises to dress for the weather and bring layers to prepare for the coolness of evening.
Gathering extravagant talent to perform against the backdrop of the Black Hills is exhilarating for Anderson and Workman.
“I love seeing families having a great time, and working with the amazingly creative and talented theater artists from across the country,” said Anderson.
Workman agrees: “Every summer I bring together a group of artists from all over the country to put on the best productions possible, and it’s always exciting to see what each of those company members bring to the Black Hills Playhouse.”
605 TRIES
DOWNTOWN ABERDEEN GETAWAY
“I feel lucky to work in and be a part of this amazing downtown community.”
ALEXA SHELDON, ABERDEEN DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION
“We have famously long winters here in South Dakota, but our innovative downtown community has created welcoming spaces where you can find plenty of things to do indoors,” said Alexa Sheldon, executive director of the Aberdeen Downtown Association
According to Sheldon, the city has been building in energy and excitement regarding the downtown scene, and Main Street is seeing a lot of growth.
“The revitalization just keeps coming,” she said, noting the difference in how the city felt just a few years ago.
This winter, she encourages South Dakotans to make the drive for a weekend getaway to experience some of Aberdeen’s hidden gems.
“We’re in an age where weekend vacations are less about the fast-paced, expensive metropolitan weekend experiences, and are more about exploring our region’s relaxed, small-town communities with locally-grown businesses and cool grassroots experiences,” said Sheldon.
So fill up your tank, grab a backpack, and make your way north to visit these exciting stops.
WRITTEN
BY
GRETA SMITH + PHOTOS
BY
JOHN SNYDER
LUXURIOUS LOFTS
No trip is complete without lodging, and 605 was able to stay at a loft by Aberdeen Property Management
“The loft in downtown Aberdeen is a stunning space that combines modern design with industrial character,” said property manager and owner Taylor Newton
The loft features high ceilings, large windows, and exposed brick walls. Amenities include a fully-equipped kitchen with premium appliances, high-speed internet, in-unit laundry, and a secure entry.
Newton shares the goal in creating the loft space was to preserve the building’s historic charm, while incorporating more modern conveniences.
The property manager oversees a diverse portfolio of over 300 units, ranging from multi-family apartments and short-term furnished rentals to commercial properties.
“All of our properties are designed with attention to detail, combining modern amenities with comfort to create an enjoyable and functional environment,” shared Newton.
The company prides itself on offering full transparency and exceptional service, and Newton says they like to make the process simple, efficient, and stress free.
“Whether you’re staying for a short visit or longer term, this loft is designed to offer comfort and convenience.”
TAYLOR NEWTON, ABERDEEN PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
ARTISTIC ENDEAVORS
Located just below the loft is Colorful Creations —an art studio owner Demi Truebenbach shares is “a safe space for everyone.”
Truebenbach took ownership of the business in November 2021, saying it was a “no-brainer.”
“Art has saved my life in so many ways and is something I am very passionate about,” she shared.
Offering projects like pottery, canvas art, tie-dye, and wooden signs, the studio is a great place to relax and spend quality time with friends and family. Plus, the studio is always open for walk-ins.
Classes are available every Saturday night with subjects like painting techniques or pottery for beginners.
“We’ll walk you through every step so you don’t feel overwhelmed with all the options you have at the studio,” encouraged Truebenbach.
Surrounded by bright colors and art on the walls, the workshop is a haven for creation and exploration.
“Everyone has a different style and comes up with different ideas, so it’s very inspiring seeing the constant creativity that flows through people,” said Truebenbach.
DEMI'S ADVICE
“At my studio I have a saying, ‘To be an artist, all you have to do is create.’ It’s not always about the outcome and how the finished product looks, it’s about the experience.”
GET YOUR GAME ON
After throwing some pottery, head over to Retrocade: Classic Arcade for an authentic retro arcade experience.
Owner Scott Mosey has been collecting games since he was 10 years old, buying his first pinball machine with his paper route money.
After working on basic repairs while earning an electronics degree, he dreamt of having a place that would showcase the nostalgia of the “golden era of arcades” and take people back in time.
Scott and his wife, Roxy, opened the arcade in the winter of 2013 and have been providing that experience ever since.
“This has been a passion project to share with the community, and we’ve enjoyed it for the past 10 seasons,” shared Roxy.
Complete with pinball machines, arcade games, a high score chalkboard, a change machine, and a jukebox, the couple has succeeded in keeping the music, décor, and games as authentic as possible.
The floor houses about 80 games from the 1980s and 1990s, and Scott has additional games waiting for repairs before being rotated out onto the floor.
Retrocade is also open for events like birthday parties, bachelor or bachelorette parties, graduations, class reunions, and office events.
ARCADE HOURS
Private parties can be booked year-round, but have seasonal hours.
OPEN: Mid-September through mid-May.
HOURS: Friday 4-9 p.m. and Saturday 1-5 p.m.
Step out of the cold and into th e heart d nt n.
Experience the coziness of our modern lofts, where stylish finishes meet the charm of historical architecture.
From studio to three-bedroom home options, we have the perfect space to fit your lifestyle.
Imagine mornings sipping coffee in our cozy community rooms, energizing workouts in our fitness centers, and snowy evenings strolling under the magical holiday lights at Falls Park.
All just steps away from your favorite local shops and dining spots.
LINES & LABELS
Some brands Karisma carries include:
• Birkenstocks
• Daze Denim
• Free People
• Little Bibsy
• Lululemon
• Mizzen and Main
FILLED WITH CHARISMA
A two-minute walk down Main Street leads to Karisma Boutique.
The coffeeshop and boutique has been a part of Melissa Larson’s life for 13 years, as it was always a weekly shopping stop for her and her daughter, Amaya
When Amaya was killed in a tragic accident at 10 months old, Larson was encompassed by grief.
“My world was shattered, my heart broken, and my life turned upside down. To describe it further is an impossibility,” said Melissa.
Not long after, the family heard news that the boutique owner was moving.
“I never imagined I ever wanted to own a boutique, but my memories of Amaya and Karisma are now and will always be more precious than words could ever express,” she said.
Melissa and her husband, Chris, took the leap, hoping it would help keep their minds occupied and provide a “new normal” after the shock of the impossible.
The boutique features different lines of women's, men’s, and kids’s clothing, home décor, pet accessories, and more.
Karisma also serves coffee, tea, protein drinks, wine, slushies, refreshers, and even mimosa flights.
One popular drink is the Frosty Joe —a blended coffee drink, which also comes available hot as a Frothy Joe
The coffeeshop and boutique changes offerings monthly with new flavors and themes for holidays. Recently, Melissa shares they’ve started to carry acai bowls, which have been best sellers.
“We pride ourselves in making our customers feel like they are a part of our little Karisma family every time they stop to shop,” said Melissa.
As the seasons change and you begin planning your next vacation, Sheldon suggests the friendliness of Aberdeen’s small historic downtown.
“Aberdeen is known to be ‘quiet,’ but we are actually hiding some of the coolest things to see and do,” said Sheldon.
“We strive
MELISSA LARSON, KARISMA BOUTIQUE
on the menu PERCH
As a child, Sioux Falls entrepreneur Alex Halbach “spent countless hours” creating and re-creating structures out of LEGOs and popsicle sticks.
His building obsession continued all seven years of undergraduate and postgraduate education, where he says he watched hours of HGTV a day while studying for exams. This, he recalls, was a “recipe for remodel frenzy.”
“The problem with HGTV is they take a disaster-of-a-home, and in 30 minutes, it’s beautiful and move-in ready,” said Halbach. “In reality, it takes hours, weeks, months, and even years to transform these projects into what you see today. It also is a lot of sleepless nights worried about finances, delays, scheduling problems, and supply chain problems that can really impact a project.”
Halbach’s first project was a 1915 Craftsman home in McKennan Park that he purchased during law school.
“After moving out of the home in 2015 for a two-year renovation, the home looks very different now than it did back then,” he recalled. “That project showed me you can combine the love of old homes with modern and transitional finishes to create an old home that has all of the modern conveniences everyone wants in a project.”
This drive to enhance real estate with historic charm with modern details soon launched Boulevard Companies in 2016, which consists of Boulevard Properties and Boulevard Construction with his business partner, Ryan Knutson
“[Ryan] is a meticulous craftsman,” said Halbach. “His ability to flawlessly execute a vision for space is incredible.”
written by alana snyder + photos by cailyn patterson
Halbach has a unique vision when it comes to seeing the potential in a historic house or a commercial building that “needs a little love.” During his daily drive down 9th Street to get to his previous downtown office, he says he would always pass an old building at 100 South Grange Avenue.
“I always passed by the building and thought, ‘That would be an awesome neighborhood restaurant,’” remembered Halbach.
Halbach says it reminded him of traveling in metros like Minneapolis and Denver, where he would visit historic residential neighborhoods that had quaint commercial districts.
“I would always seek out these historic neighborhoods to gawk at the architecture and homes, then would try and find a local restaurant or bar to relax in after my visit to the neighborhood,” he said. “Sioux Falls didn’t really have anything comparable.”
The 1908 structure was built by Peter Effting, initially operating as the Effting Grocery Building with the grocery store on the main floor and the family residence on the second floor. In 1934 the name changed to Lincoln Grocery, which operated until 1954, and the building was vacant until 1961 when the main level was converted to a residence.
“At around the same time [of the conversion,] the exterior of the building was covered in stucco, including covering the front entrance to the building,” Halbach recalled. “It operated as a residential duplex until 2022 when we started our restoration of the building.”
This was the first project Halbach says he purchased without even seeing the inside.
“I think there are a lot of people in town that thought I must be crazy to have purchased it when I did, but I don’t think you can argue with how it turned out,” he laughed.
anything but a façade
The building was awarded a $95,000 grant through the Façade Easement Program.
“I couldn’t have done the project without the support from the City of Sioux Falls and their Façade Easement Program,” said Halbach. “Those dollars were instrumental in the rebrick of the building and acquiring quality, period-appropriate materials to finish the exterior, including windows, doors, and lighting.”
Halbach says he knew the first floor would be a neighborhood restaurant or coffee shop, and he had a hunch the second floor would be ideal for a small office space, like a bookkeeping or real estate office.
It finally occurred to him the upstairs was the perfect fit for his hybrid law office for Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm. The business is owned by Halbach and his partners, Stefan Szwarc , Anna Limoges, and Emily Maurice
The Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm currently has 13 employees working remotely all across South Dakota and Iowa. Halbach says the pandemic taught him that clients don’t necessarily need interaction face to face—they’re looking more for quality and responsiveness.
His team is welcome to use the space for work by reserving a desk and/or a conference room for an hour or a day if they’re meeting with clients or wish to use the office’s technology inside or outside of the office to assist in the hybrid law practice.
“As a full-service law firm, our team members have varying degrees of conference room and space needs, so designing a space that was versatile, yet functional was important,” said Halbach.
The building is 1,000 square feet on each floor, so using every inch of space was imperative. This was accomplished upstairs with carefully thought-out storage, a shelf divider, curated furniture pieces, and custom cabinets.
“I love the custom white oak shelf that divides the two open spaces, which was custom made by Boulevard Construction,” said Halbach. “The slope of the shelf mimics the slope of the ceiling.”
Experience the unparalleled beauty and durability of Cambria quartz surfaces at Creative Surfaces. Scan the QR code to find your exceptional style.
“I’m not someone who rushes to furnish a space. I feel like you need to spend some time in the space before you add furniture and décor items, and the space will mature and change as you spend more time in the space.”
Alex Halbach
As mentioned, the main floor was also 1,000 square feet, which made the potential for restaurant seating difficult without getting creative.
“With only 18 seats on the interior of the space, I knew it might be challenging to find an operator who understood the vision for the space and understood the passion I had for neighborhoods and the experience I was trying to create,” said Halbach.
After some discussion and convincing, Barry Putzke and Jordan Taylor (of Bread & Circus Sandwich Kitchen, En Place Catering, and Pizza Cheeks) and Patrick Sayler (of the Sioux Falls Food Co+op) understood the experience and the vibe that Halbach thought the building deserved.
The talented team’s focus was the idea of a comfortable neighborhood café with scratchmade breakfast items in an intimate setting. Together they came up with the name: Perch.
“The name Perch came from the idea that we’re in the Cathedral and Pettigrew Neighborhood , as we’re ‘perched’ above downtown,” explained Halbach.
Originally planned to open January of 2024, material delays and general construction issues caused Perch to open July of 2024. That didn’t stop the Perch crew from hosting a slew of brunch pop-ups at En Place Catering’s event room.
“The pop-ups gave us an unique opportunity to test out a few different menu items and train our staff off-site before the restaurant opened,” said Halbach. “It really helped us work out the new-restaurant kinks.”
Menu items from the pop-up ended up on the finalized Perch menu, like the Bratwurst Biscuit Sandwich with a bratwurst sausage patty, fried egg, gruyere, chimichurri, pickled red cabbage, and papas fritas.
Halbach says the most popular breakfast item is the Perch Benedict , which includes an English muffin, Canadian bacon, poached eggs, hollandaise, chives, and papas fritas.
“I may be biased, but I think our hollandaise sauce is the best I’ve ever had,” said Halbach. “While I love our Perch Benedict with a muffin, I order it with a biscuit instead of a muffin so I can enjoy our fresh-baked biscuits with the hollandaise.”
Speaking of freshly baked, Perch has a madefresh-daily bakery case with a rotating menu of scones, cookies, muffins, and their cinnamon roll, which has become a huge hit.
“Our cinnamon rolls quickly became a crowd favorite, and we still sell out of them nearly every day,” said Halbach.
In October, Perch launched a small lunch menu that includes a Lyonnaise Salad , a Steak Sandwich, and a Vegan Fried Tofu Bowl
Drinks include a coffee menu that has lattes made with Brookings’ Cottonwood Coffee and also serve hot chocolate, which Halbach says he’s heard is the “best hot chocolate in town.”
Cottonwood Coffee worked with Perch to create a custom coffee blend, and the team hopes to sell their roast or whole bean to customers by the holidays. They also are looking at an online ordering system for cinnamon rolls and other baked goods, allowing customers to order six to 12 items to-go.
Perch recently finished an outdoor patio that created seating for 50 more people, and includes several gas fire pits for warmth.
“We have had a lot of positive feedback from customers about how bright and inviting the space is and how creative the use of space is.”
Alex Halbach
“At the time I purchased the building, I didn’t know that I would become both the landlord and the tenant, opening Perch with three seasoned veterans in the food and coffee business, and opening my new law firm, Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm above.”
Alex Halbach
Looking ahead, a final project is completing construction on an outdoor beer and coffee bar with a glass garage door.
“With a roll-up glass garage door and vaulted ceilings, this space will welcome the outdoors in, and will add yet another activated space for people to gather and enjoy,” said Halbach.
Last but not least, Perch will wrap construction on a 60-person rooftop patio, which Halbach says will be unlike anything that is presently in Sioux Falls.
The outside-of-the-box thinking doesn’t stop there, as the team is in talks of working on a party/rental option for private events, and they’re tossing around the idea of evening hours that would include appetizers, beer, and wine.
“The potential to grow our offerings to meet our customers’ needs are great,” said Halbach. “We understand we have an opportunity to provide Sioux Falls with a unique offering unlike anything else in the city, and that requires us to push the boundaries of our food and service to provide that experience.”
From Maker
Stacy Wengler and her husband, Kyle, have been organizing the 605 Made Markets for 10 years, giving local makers an outlet to sell their items.
One day while driving home from a vacation, the couple wondered about having a physical location to help out the makers who didn’t have storefronts or were just pursuing their hobbies.
“I thought, ‘Could we do this all the time?’” said Stacy. “Kyle was like, ‘Yeah, we could,” she remembered.
On that truck ride they started a list, writing down everything they would want in a building for a storefront in Hartford.
“We got home and just kept moving forward with it,” said Stacy.
The couple opened Knotty Gnome Variety & Salvage in 2016.
Written by Greta Smith + Photos by Cailyn Patterson
Prior to owning their own business, Kyle worked on communication towers and for the local cable company.
Stacy had worked with her father, Beaver, for 25 years at his metal fabrication business called Beaverbuilt Inc.
On top of that, the couple was craftily creating at home: Stacy made handmade goods, while Kyle would do woodworking.
“He was doing more and more to help with some of the products or ideas I had with things I wanted to make, and we had the garage filled,” said Stacy.
When the store opened, everything moved from home.
Knotty Gnome carries all of the following:
Accessories
Bags
Baby gifts
Bookmarks
Craft kits
Earrings
Embroidery
Gnomes
Greeting cards
Honey & jams
Home décor
Soaps & bath bombs
Season
AGATHA CHRISTIE’S
MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS
JUNE 8-22 | PG 10+ / Adults
Trapped on the snowbound Orient Express, detective Hercule Poirot must solve a murder before the killer strikes again.
LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL
JUNE 29 - JULY 13 | PG 10+ / Adults
Elle Woods defies expectations at Harvard Law, transforming from heartbreak to triumph.
WAITRESS: THE MUSICAL
JULY 20 - AUGUST 03 | Teens 13+ / Adults
A talented pie maker, finds hope and courage through an unexpected pregnancy, a baking contest, and a new doctor.
THE BOOK OF WILL
AUGUST 10-16 | PG 10+ / Adults
After Shakespeare’s death, two loyal actors race against time to preserve his plays in this heartwarming tale about friendship.
“Supporting a business like ours supports the whole community.”
Stacy Wengler
Now, Knotty Gnome primarily carries handmade goods from regional makers. Stacy shares she has about 25-30 makers who rotate depending on the season.
“We also have a small collection of retail lines, some of the snarky, funny stuff that people love,” she said. “But I would say 95% of our items are handmade.”
One local maker featured at Knotty Gnome is
Sew Doggy Boutique, which offers everyday and seasonal collars and bandanas for dogs.
“We have a shop dog, Ella , who’s a really good model,” said Stacy. “She’s probably the best dressed pup in town.”
Finding local makers is a breeze for Stacy after organizing the 605 Made Markets.
“People are looking for places to be able to sell
their items on a regular basis instead of just having to do pop-ups and craft shows,” she reflected.
The shop owner keeps a keen eye out for new products on social media as well, sharing that she’ll reach out to makers if she thinks they’ll be a good fit for her store.
“It’s always changing, what people are making, and what we have in the store,” she said.
“When people come in, especially if they’ve never been here before, they’re so surprised and excited.”
Stacy Wengler
In 2021, Stacy’s dad retired from Beaverbuilt Inc., and the couple bought the company, splitting their time between the two businesses.
“Thank goodness it’s in the same parking lot, because we walk back and forth multiple times a day,” laughed Stacy.
With the assets of the metal fabrication shop, Stacy herself is a maker of steel yard décor, sewing projects, earrings, general crafting, laser engraving, and more.
“I do a lot of custom engraved items or promotional items for businesses, or individual wedding or anniversary gifts,” she said.
Plaques, awards, tumblers, beverage holders, keychains, and engravings are all available to be customized and even done in large quantities.
“We have such a variety of things,” said Stacy, sharing that some customers come in just to pick up specific items like locally made honey and jams.
From coming up with the ideas for products and making them, to the daily routines of running the store and greeting customers, Stacy says it’s important to her to be an active participant in the community.
Knotty Gnome found its name when Kyle and Stacy, fans of vintage garden gnomes, ran across a chainsaw-carved gnome statue. The gnome is about three feet tall and sits proudly in their home.
For pop-up classes and events, follow along on facebook at /knottygnome605.
• Bachelor of Science
• Master of Science
• Postgraduate Certificate
• Doctor of Nursing Practice
>>> ONLINE <<< and on campus in Brookings, Rapid City and Sioux Falls.
Web: sdstate.edu/nursing Phone: 605-688-5178
Email: sdsu.nursing@sdstate.edu For information about free support group meetings in your area dial 605-679-5497 (Sioux Falls area) 605-872-1245 (Rapid City area) or southdakotaalanon.org
• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing
Knotty Gnome gives donations and hosts pop-up classes, tours, and events in conjunction with local organizations like the library or the school.
“Our students and our school depend on their local businesses to support them, so we’re trying to do everything we can to step out and be a role model for the kids, or be able to speak on how you can be in a small town and own your own business and be successful,” shared Stacy.
As far as her favorite part of the job, Stacy says it’s all about seeing the different people who come into the store.
Sioux
Metro Grown Alliance
Knotty Gnome is a community member of the Sioux Metro Growth Alliance. For more community members, visit siouxmetro.com.
“It’s just really fun to see how surprised people are about how many unique things are in the store and how much creativity all of my makers have,” she said.
Stacy continued, “We just have so much color and so many fun things that it’s hard not to be happy when you come in.”
ANNIE & CHRIS MELLO
“ Chris and I have a mission to make Sioux Falls the healthiest city per capita,” said Annie Mello, owner and operations of SISU Fit
The fitness duo recently opened the new groundbreaking facility in Cherapa Place downtown to work towards this goal.
The Mellos’ love story began with fitness, meeting at a gym in Orange County, CA in 2001 where Chris was Annie’s personal trainer.
“We both didn’t want to be in any other place other than the gym,” smiled Annie. “It was both of our ‘happy place.’”
After moving back to Annie’s hometown of Sioux Falls, they integrated quickly into the community, and say opening their first gym,
CPMFITness at the Western Mall, helped give them a sense of belonging from the start.
With the launch of SISU in 2024, the Mellos started the evolution of a lifestyle brand in the fitness industry with a more holistic approach, while incorporating the downtown urban vibe being surrounded by businesses, apartments, condos, restaurants, retail, and more.
The gym offers a variety of memberships, with the standard giving members 24-hour access with a state-of-the-art sauna, cardio and strength equipment, free weights, and virtual-led classes.
Get to know the entrepreneurs and what they like to do when they’re not working on inspiring others to follow the “ SISU Method.”
Talk about SISU Fit and its brand. What inspired the vibe of SISU Fit?
SISU is a Finnish word that embodies perseverance, courage, and resilience. The SISU Method is built on five pillars of health and wellness we believe are essential for a well-rounded life: Community, longevity, mindfulness, strength, and nutrition.
Who is SISU Fit targeting for clientele?
We target clients who are committed to improving their overall fitness and well-being. This includes corporate members, busy professionals, health-conscious individuals, and community-oriented members.
What has it been like being part of the growing Cherapa Place community?
It has been a dream. Chris and I are always innovating, so when you team up with the top innovators in their field, it’s just a force. Even more, it’s been amazing to watch the city evolve and be ready for the innovation.
What all do you do when you’re not working on your company?
We have twins that are 6, so when we are not at SISU we are hanging with the boys, training ourselves, and enjoying all the city has to offer!
What are some of your favorite spots in Sioux Falls and/or in South Dakota?
Every Wednesday for the last 17 years we go out for date night. Right now Carpenter Bar is our Wednesday hang.
We also like Tomar Park with the kids, Pomegranate Market , the Sioux Falls State Theatre, Combine clothing store, and the boys love the Washington Pavilion.
We will be closed December 24 th, 25 th, & 31st for time with family and friends. See you soon!
