2022_11_EtcMagazine_Volume21_Issue12

HEALTH

out & about

Sweets

Sinless Sweets Now Open at The Bridges

BY MARY MICHAELS | PHOTOS BY JULIE PRAIRIE PHOTOGRAPHY

Life looks a little different for Maggy Pickner today than it did a year ago.

“Last year, I was a poor college student,” she says. “If you would have told me then that I would have my own business and storefront a year later, well, I wouldn’t have believed it.”

But, that is exactly what has happened for Pickner, who opened Sinless Sweets at The Bridges on 57th two months ago. While she didn’t have “business owner” on her radar, it really isn’t a surprise this is where she landed after growing up spending hours in the

kitchen baking with her family.

“Cookies, brownies, you name it, we baked it,” she says.

Life took a little turn, however, when Pickner was 19. She was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and, with that, needed to change her diet.

“I was a girl with a sweet tooth, and suddenly I had to eliminate gluten and dairy. Fortunately, I had a sister who was also glutenand dairy-free, so we started experimenting with different recipes.”

That sister is Chelsea Giedd, owner of Chelsea’s Boutique located in downtown Sioux Falls. Pickner’s other sister, Logan Gran, recently brought her own business to Sioux Falls – One Smart Cookie – which specializes in cookie decorating.

“I guess we all do have a little bit of that entrepreneurial spirit in our blood,” Pickner laughs, “although I didn’t realize I would be doing my own thing like this as a 20-year-old.”

She started Sinless Sweets out of her apartment last year, selling custom cakes and other sweet

treats that are all gluten free and vegan.

“While I started out just trying to figure out how to change up my favorite foods to meet my dietary needs, I realized there are many more people in Sioux Falls just like me who are looking for delicious foods that we can enjoy safely.”

Her home-based baking took off and, with support and encouragement from her family, the idea of a brick and mortar business was born.

“It has been in the works for awhile now,” Pickner explains. “I am young and just starting

out, so I needed a location that would help my business but also one that I could afford.

I was selling at pop-up shops while working with Bender Commercial Real Estate looking at various spots. They helped me find this spot at The Bridges, and it’s perfect.”

Pickner opened her storefront on September 15, which happened to be the oneyear anniversary of starting Sinless Sweets out of her home. Her place has an earthy, warm décor with wall collages of plants, empty frames and mirrors. An eclectic collection of

tables and chairs invites you to come in and enjoy a cup of coffee from the Keurig with your treat or bring friends and play a board game from the basket.

Even after just two months in business, Pickner already has regulars coming in for baked goods or for the grab-and-go meals she has added to her menu. Early favorites are her cinnamon rolls and her mixed berry or brown sugar pop tarts. While it takes quite a bit of trial and error in creating her recipes, she says it is worth it to be able to enjoy foods she

loved growing up.

“My grandpa taught me his caramel roll recipe years ago,” she says, “and I loved making them – and eating them. It was one of those foods I didn’t really want to just give up. So, I played around with his recipe, making tweaks so that it was gluten-free and vegan. Now, I can still think about him when I’m making them.”

One of Pickner’s favorite things to make is cakes, and she offers different flavors every day in a variety of forms…cake pops, cake slices and even cake-in-a-cup.

“For those with special dietary needs, cake is one of those things that people think they have to give up,” she says. “So, I love having cake here that people can just enjoy as a treat or baking full, decorated cakes for special occasions. I have already had the opportunity to do weddings and first birthday ‘smash cakes,’ and I love seeing the joy a custom cake can bring!”

Pickner has been a one-woman show (with help from family, of course!), but she is excited to finally be in a place where she can bring on

some help.

“I just hired someone for social media, which is awesome,” she says with a big smile on her face. “It’s not that I don’t like doing it, but it does take time. Now, we can keep up with our daily news, but I have more time in the kitchen.”

It’s important to follow Sinless Sweets (@ SinlessSweetsSF) for daily posts about what’s on the menu – from the bakery case to the daily meals, which include everything from chili to stuffed shells, lasagna and alfredo. Some of

her meal ideas come from customers making requests. And, she also buys the gluten-free pasta in bulk so she can sell bags of dry pasta for customers to take and make at home.

Adding meals to her lineup was an easy decision.

“When you are gluten-free or looking for vegan options, it can be a challenge,” she says. “I do add some meals that I like, but it’s important to me that I am also making food that my customers want. I also get people in who don’t really want to just cook for one, so

they’ll come in and grab something for dinner. That makes me happy.”

As she settles into life as a business owner, Pickner says she will keep experimenting with different recipes for cookies, breads and dinner items, and she hopes to eventually host baking classes. With a new website up and running, she can also take orders for baked goods online. She is grateful for the advice and collaboration from sisters Logan and Chelsea.

“For the Fall Festival at The Bridges, Logan and I teamed up for decorated cookies, and

with our grand opening, I was also able to offer gifts from Chelsea’s store. It’s amazing to have them as sisters and business mentors.”

Pickner loves her new home at The Bridges, calling the other tenants “family” and looking forward to future special events there.

“Everyone here at The Bridges has been so welcoming and supportive,” Pickner says. “There’s such a great variety of businesses here for both residents and visitors. And of course, I couldn’t do this without our customers. I’m grateful to be here doing what I love.”

BUDDY: The Buddy Holly Story

November 2 - 3 • 7:30pm Washington Pavilion

Loved by critics and audiences alike, BUDDY tells the enduring tale of the musical icon’s meteoric rise to fame and his final legendary performance

at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, before his tragic and untimely death at the age of 22. Boasting

a phenomenally multitalented cast, together they present two terrific hours of music with more than 20 of his greatest hits, including the timeless classics “That’ll Be the Day,” “Peggy Sue,” “Oh Boy” and “Rave On.” INFO washingtonpavilion.org

Become a Friend of “The Sound of Music” November 3 - 6 Crystal Theatre Flandreau, SD The Crystal Theatre will again perform a major musical production this fall. The Crystal is proud to present “The Sound of

Music” on Nov. 3, 4, 5 & 6. Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances start at 7:30. Matinee performances will be on Saturday afternoon and Sunday afternoon at 2:00. INFO (605) 864-0517.

Sioux Falls Stampede vs Sioux City Musketeers Friday, November 4 Denny Sanford PREMIER Center

Cheer on the Sioux Falls Stampede hockey team of the USHL at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center as they take on opponents from across the country. INFO (605) 336-6060. 4th Annual Yogafest Saturday, November 5

Sioux Falls Convention Center

The 4th Annual Yogafest is coming back for a morning of revitalization. In addition to having several experienced instructors offering a wide variety of classes, you can customize your schedule to best fit your interests! INFO dennysanfordpremier center.com

Casting Crowns: The Healer Tour Saturday, November 5 Denny Sanford PREMIER Center

Life 96.5 is bringing Casting Crowns The Healer Tour to Sioux Falls. Joining them throughout the tour are

Cain and Anne Wilson. INFO dennysanfordpremier center.com

Sanford PROMISE Community Lecture Series Date/Time: Monday, November 7 5:30 - 6:30pm Title: Is it SAD? Distinguishing between being in a funk, depressed or experiencing seasonal affective disorder. Presented by: Jennifer Faul, Head of Special Projects at Sanford Health & Program Director of the Pediatric Mental Health Care Access Program Location: Virtual Registration: Must register

for the event to receive virtual platform link: https://bit.ly/3ShkcfL Website: https://research. sanfordhealth.org/ academic-programs/ community

Disney’s Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation Tuesday, November 8 Washington Pavilion

Disney’s iconic Winnie the Pooh, Christopher Robin and their best friends Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit and Owl (oh … and don’t forget Tigger, too!) have come to life in a beautifully crafted musical stage adaptation. Featuring the Sherman Brothers’ classic Grammy Award-winning music with further songs by A.A. Milne, this beautiful, fresh stage adaptation is told with stunning life-sized puppetry through the eyes of the characters we all know and love, in a new story from the Hundred Acre Wood. INFO washingtonpavilion.org

Sioux Falls Skyforce vs Fort Wayne Mad Ants Thursday, November 10 Sanford Pentagon

Watch the Sioux Falls Skyforce, a Miami HEAT affiliate, compete against other teams in the NBA G League at the Sanford Pentagon. INFO (605) 332-0605.

Behind the Scenes Tour of the Irene Hall Museum Resource Center Thursday, November 10 10am Irene Hall Museum Resource Center 4300 N. Westport Avenue Take a look behind the closed doors of the Irene Hall Museum Resource Center and see the artifact storage and work areas. $5 Call (605) 3674210 to register. www. siouxlandmuseums.com

Dakota Angler Ice Institute

Friday, November 11 3pm to 9pm

Saturday, November 12: 10am to 7pm

Sioux Falls Arena & Convention Center

The Dakota Angler Ice Institute was started in 2008 to give ice fishermen an opportunity to see the latest and greatest in the ice fishing industry, but also learn from the experts on how to use the equipment.

Throughout the years, the Ice Institute has a had a number of professors share their knowledge with those that have attended. INFO (605) 336-9132.

Sioux Falls Stampede vs Sioux City Musketeers Friday, November 11 Denny Sanford

PREMIER Center

Cheer on the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center as they take on opponents from across the country. INFO (605) 336-6060.

Nooks & Crannies Tour of the Pettigrew Home & Museum

Pettigrew Home & Museum 131 N. Main Avenue Saturday, November 12 10 am

See the areas behind the scenes of the Pettigrew Home & Museum and learn about construction, restoration, and how

we continue to care to the building today. $5 Admission. Call (605) 3677097 to register in advance. INFO siouxlandmuseums.com

Fiber Fun at the Old Courthouse Museum Sunday, November 13

1pm - 4pm

Old Courthouse Museum • 200 West Sixth Street Do you like to knit, crochet, needlework, or dabble in any other fiber arts? Come join members from the Crossthreads Fiber Guild for an afternoon of Fiber Fun! Attendees can work on projects, ask for suggestions, and just enjoy the company of fellow fiber friends. INFO (605) 367-4210 or www. siouxlandmuseums.com

Rosemaling

Demonstration at the Old Courthouse Museum Tuesday, November 15

1pm - 4pm

Old Courthouse Museum • 200 West Sixth Street Eileen Halverson will be demonstrating the Norwegian folk art of Rosemaling (decorative painting) in the secondfloor hallway of the Old Courthouse Museum. Stop in any time for a demonstration or to ask questions! INFO (605) 367-4210 or www. siouxlandmuseums.com

Legally BlondeThe Musical November 15-17 • 7:30pm Washington Pavilion

Based on the beloved movie, LEGALLY BLONDE - THE MUSICAL follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, sexism, snobbery and scandal in pursuit of her dreams, and proves that you can be BOTH legally blonde AND the smartest person in the room. INFO washingtonpavilion.org

Kid’s Activity Day: Whooo’s There at the Old Courthouse Museum Thursday, November 17 9-11:30 a.m. Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street Kids can learn about history and make their own crafts to take home. Sessions run every 15 minutes throughout morning times. Call to reserve times. Free admission. INFO (605) 367-4210 or www. siouxlandmuseums.com

Sioux Falls Skyforce vs Windy City Blues Saturday, November 19 7 - 9pm

Watch the Sioux Falls Skyforce, a Miami HEAT affiliate, compete against other teams in the NBA G League at the Sanford Pentagon. INFO (605) 332-0605.

Local Author Book

Fair at the Old Courthouse Museum Saturday, November 19

11am - 2pm Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street

Join area authors to discuss and purchase their latest books! Stop in any time from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to learn about the latest in South Dakota literature. Many authors scheduled to appear! Admission is Free. 605)367-4210 or www. siouxlandmuseums.com

Sioux Falls Skyforce vs Grand Rapids Gold Wednesday, November 23 6:30pm

Sioux Falls Skyforce

Watch the Sioux Falls Skyforce, a Miami HEAT

affiliate, compete against other teams in the NBA G League at the Sanford Pentagon. (605) 332-0605.

Sioux Falls Stampede vs Tri-City Storm Friday, November 25 7:05pm

across the country. (605) 336-6060.

The Hegg Brothers at the Old Courthouse Museum Winter Concert Series Friday, November 25 • 12 - 1pm Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street

The Hegg Brothers will perform in the historic courtroom of the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! (605) 367-4210 or www. siouxlandmuseums.com

Denny Sanford PREMIER Center Cheer on the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center as they take on opponents from across the country. (605) 336-6060.

Sioux Falls Stampede vs Lincoln Stars

Saturday, November 26 7:05pm Denny Sanford PREMIER Center Cheer on the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center as they take on opponents from

Santa Train & Light the Night Sunday, November 27

Ellis & Eastern’s Santa Train will travel through 4 towns bringing Santa & Mrs. Claus at each stop.

Rushmore MN Depot: 12:15 to 1:15 pm

Adrian MN Depot: 2 to 3 pm Magnolia MN Depot:

Jason

3:45 to 4:15 pm

Luverne MN Depot: 5 to 6:15 pm

Holiday Fireworks at Luverne City Park at 7 pm Light the Night - following fireworks - Santa & Mrs. Claus turn on the City Park’s lighted displays! luvernechamber.com

Pentatonix: A Christmas Spectacular Sunday, November 27 7 - 9pm

Denny Sanford PREMIER Center

This fall, Pentatonix will proudly present their Pentatonix: A Christmas Spectacular!2022 Tour. This large-scale multi-city outing will feature the group headlining 22 of North America’s top arenas

coast-to-coast. Season 21 winners of The Voice, Girl Named Tom, will open the night as the tour’s special guests, guaranteeing a spectacular evening and this holiday season’s best concert opportunity! INFO dennysanfordpremier center.com

Victorian Tea Party at the Pettigrew Home & Museum Wednesday, November 30 2pm

Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street Enjoy winter in true Victorian fashion at the Pettigrew Home & Museum. Learn about the history of tea while enjoying tea and snacks. Space is limited for this adult program. Call (605) 367-7097 to register. Free admission. INFO siouxlandmuseums.com

Wheel of Fortune Live! Wednesday, November 30 7:30 - 9:30pm

“Wheel of Fortune LIVE!,” an all-new theatrical experience, is going on tour across North America and will come to Mary W. Sommervold Hall. The all-new live stage show is the one-and-only way fans can experience America’s Game® in person outside of Sony Pictures Studios, and it’s right in your hometown theater. INFO washingtonpavilion.org

DESIGNER EYEWEAR TRUNK SHOW

new styles, prizes + perks, delicious treats

Don’t miss our Designer Eyewear Trunk Show for the latest in eyewear fashion, treats, giveaways, and more. Be one of the first 50 in the door and get a FREE gift.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19 | 9AM – 1PM

Love what you see.

6201 S. Minnesota Ave. (605) 274.6717

EYE CARE visions@sdvisions.com sdvisions.com

etc. for her

1. GREATEST COMMUNITY IMPACTMINOR LEAGUE SPORTS

Peep has spearheaded a program to get kids excited about reading! The performer and who Peep was created for, Nick, who is just 13 years old and in his 10th year of being a professional mascot, is dyslexic. Reading has been a major struggle for him. Being labeled as being different at school was also very hard. And the thought of being called on in class to read out loud was terrifying.

As he has gotten older, he has realized that with hard work, and continued practice, his reading has improved greatly. Even with the dyslexia. The Sioux Falls Canaries Community foundation has supported his efforts to promote reading - to make it fun for kids. To help show kids that they can do it.

The hardcover book (Cagey and Peep’s Home Run!) and the activity book (Peep & Cagey’s Reading Challenge & Fun Book) were given out as premiums at several Canaries home games. They were both a big hit with the kiddos! They were also given out at local elementary schools and to school libraries.

The idea is to have reading materials the kids are actually interested in. This makes reading much more fun. The activity book also issues a reading challenge that incentivizes kids to read - by being rewarded with free Canaries game tickets, a free comic book from Rainbow Comics, Cards & Collectibles and a free cookie from Mary’s Mountain Cookies.

There are also jokes, a crossword puzzle and search-a-word - all ways to get kids reading. This popular program will continue with a new piece each year.

2. BEST IN-GAME ROUTINE OR SKITMINOR LEAGUE SPORTS

A couple seasons ago, we had a terrific player named Burt Reynolds, so it seemed natural to host a Burt Reynolds night at a Sioux Falls Canaries game. Luckily, our Burt Reynolds had a fantastic sense of humor!

The night was complete with Smokey and the Bandit costumes, a 1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, Burt Reynolds look-a-like contest, CB radios, signage all over the stadium, and of course iconic Smokey and the Bandit music.

The theme night was a huge success and Burt Reynolds enjoyed every minute of it!

Cherry Red Christmas Popcorn

BY JO MCCLURE

12

1

popped popcorn

sugar

2/3

1/2

6

light corn syrup

butter

cherry flavored chips

1

Remove all the unpopped kernels. Place the popped popcorn in a large roaster or 11x17 baking pan. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup and butter. Stir over medium heat until in boils. Remove from heat and add the chips and vanilla, stir until chips are melted. Pour the hot mixture over the popcorn and stir gently to coat. Bake at 300˚ for 45 minutes, stirring ever 15 minutes. Spread on waxed paper and cool completely. Break large clumps apart and store in an air tight container.

At Home in a New City

BY MARY MICHAELS | PHOTOS BY JULIE PRAIRIE PHOTOGRAPHY

As Sioux Falls continues its growth, the city is always welcoming new residents from across the country. A Nebraska couple chose Sioux Falls just over three years ago to be closer to their daughter and her family.

They found a place just to get relocated, but knew they wanted to keep looking at different areas of town. About a year ago, they found what they were looking for in a new twin home development in southern Sioux Falls.

“There are just four units to this development,” the homeowner says, “and the shell of our unit was complete. A little of the finishing work had started, but we had the opportunity to come in and customize most of the interior.”

Fortunately, she adds, Houndstooth House was already involved with the project, having consulted on the design of the other units as well. The couple instantly hit it off with Houndstooth owners Denise Cotter and Michelle Marino.

“They were with us every step of the way.”

From room design to furniture and finishings, the homeowners were grateful for the designers’ advice, both the practical and the unique. While the color scheme throughout the home was neutral, primarily white and grey, the couple was able to warm it up with help from Denise and Michelle.

In the room just off the entry, the couple decided to create a cozy den by adding stones around the fireplace and wood beams across the ceiling, along with built-in wood bookshelves. An oversized window brings in the afternoon sun.

“We were using existing furniture in this room,” the homeowner says, “and trying to figure out how to arrange it. Denise and Michelle were so great. They just came in

and asked, ‘Can we help?’ and they just have this eye for how to place furniture so that it looks good but is also functional.”

When the couple looked at the house, the main living space was just “one big empty room” according to the homeowners, including white

cabinets in the kitchen. Had they been picking out cabinets, white may not have been their first choice, but now they like the way everything came together by using earth-toned tiles for the backsplash and darker wood for the island and the dry bar area they added to the dining space.

An enviable walk-in pantry is tucked behind the kitchen, with shelving, a prep sink and plenty of counter workspace. The couple also added a second oven, which comes in handy when they are entertaining or when it’s baking day and they can have more than one thing going at once.

Since it’s just the two of them, the couple added a small table and chairs in the dining area and then added comfortable chairs in the corner next to the French doors that open to a covered deck. A staircase leads down to the patio and yard. Even though there are four units

together, the

The flat screen television on the wall is offset from the built-in fireplace, adding visual interest. The homeowners also appreciated help choosing new furniture for the living room and love the mixed textures,

and leather.

on the main level. When the couple

the home, the tray ceiling was already finished in that room.

Wanting something other than just a “big all-white ceiling,” they turned to Denise and Michelle again for ideas. The result was the addition of riveted wallpaper to the inside square of the tray.

With a big window facing the backyard view, the room is light and

airy, complemented by the natural look of the linen headboard and drawer fronts on the nightstand.

A short hallway separates the bedroom from the master bath, leaving room for a big closet and laundry space right across from each other.

It is another feature the couple says they would not have initially thought they would like, but the convenience quickly sold them on it. Throughout the home, the doorways are wide, and, in their bathroom, there is also a walk-in shower with a bench.

“Since we mostly live on the main level anyway, things like the wide doorways and walk-in showers really make us feel like this is a place where we can age in place for a long time.”

The bathroom design originally had a double vanity along one wall,

but when the designers suggested a free-standing tub with accompanying free-standing faucet, they changed the design to an L-shaped vanity that opens more floor space.

Although they have been in the house for six months, the couple

continues to adjust to make the space fit their everyday needs. For example, the main floor also includes a guest suite with its own walk-in closet and full bathroom.

was originally designed as an additional bedroom, and we started

Sioux Falls Kitchen & Bath

way since we still have a son in

for him and his family,” the

to go downstairs

moved

the

“But then we were

So, we

them

the room functions both as an office and a sunny space to sit and read. The walk-in closet is a perfect space to organize craft supplies,

wrappings and more.

still offers plenty of space for guests, with a finished lower

level that includes two guest suites, a family room and an entertaining area with a wet bar.

“As we were planning the lower level, we really wanted to take full advantage of the space,” says the homeowner. “Right at the bottom of

the stairs, my husband said, ‘A pool table really belongs there.’ So, that is what we did.”

The designers picked out a funky black and white geometric wallpaper for the bar area, which has its own sink, refrigerator, microwave and an

the house, so when they aren’t using the lower level, they can turn that zone down.

Another unique feature of the lower level is the staircase that leads up to the garage. The couple says they are surprised how often they use

it, and it certainly came in handy as their construction and design team needed access to the lower level.

“We are so happy to be here,” the couple says. “We couldn’t have done this without Denise and Michelle. They were there to help us a much or

Holiday Tees

Cliff Avenue Greenhouse has a large selection of hilarious tees for the holidays. Great for anyone on your holiday list. Cliff Avenue Greenhouse. 2101 E. 26th St. (605) 332-6641 & 7310 W. 41st St. (605) 362-9727.

20% OFF!

Houndstooth House dishes on sale for 20% off the month of November!Choose from a variety of colors that are all dishwasher, microwave, freezer, oven safe + chip resistant! Stop in today to pick out your custom place setting or serving pieces.  Houndstooth House. 201 W. 37th Street. (605) 271-2278.

Diamond Flex Bracelets

14k white, or yellow, gold diamond flex bracelets. Ranging from 1ctw to 5ctw and available in any wrist size. These bracelets flex giving you more versatility in the wear on your wrist and they come with a push button release clasp. Truly a must see. Faini Designs Jewelry Studio. 69th St. & Western Ave. (605) 339-6956.

More Finish Choices!

Anticipate the new year with a look and feel from past days! Artisan effects like Cottage Distressing and Old World Distressing add the patina of fine antique furniture to your cabinetry project. Visit our showroom today — and ask one of our friendly designers about these and other finish options from StarMark Cabinetry. Today’s StarMark Custom Cabinetry. 600 E. 48th Street N. (605) 977-3660.

Winter Warm Up!

Banana Bread Old Fashioned — yum! Banana & cinnamon infused Jim Beam Black Bourbon, simple syrup, chocolate & walnut bitters, orange peel. McNally’s Irish Pub. 69th Street & Western Avenue. (605) 271-7170.

TuTu Cute!

Any little dancer would love to snuggle up with these adorable stuffies — with a bonus tutu scrunchie! The Dance Line. 2115 S. Minnesota Avenue. (605) 335-8242.

Holiday Keepsakes

Create your own holiday keepsakes. Create the memories together and pass down from generation to generation. Color Me Mine. 3709 W. 41st St. (605) 362-6055.

Buy 5, Get 1 Free Handcrafted in the USA using semiprecious stones on hypoallergenic ear wires. And the great part—buy 5 get one free. Prices range from $14$22. Country ‘n More. 69th Street & Western Avenue. (605) 361-9797.

Best Bridal Experience

Located at 69th Street & Western Avenue, we strive to bring you the best bridal experience in the area. Ellie Stone Bride. Heather Ridge Village. 6205 S. Heather Ridge Village. (605) 332-8841. (Photo courtesy of Kate Jones Studios)

Happy Hour!

1/2 OFF taps & house wine. (when ordering pizza). Monday – Friday

• 4pm – 5:30pm. 69th & Western, Sioux Falls. (605) 275-2212. Charliespizzahouse.com

50 Seniors!

We only photograph 50 fabulous seniors each year. Make sure you are one of them! Julie Prairie Photography. (605) 359-6640 or julieprairie.com

New HOLLIS Luxury Collection

Travel in style with our new glam duffle bags, organizers, pouch sets and more – all made in beautiful blush & rose gold leopard prints and perfect for holiday gifting! Julianna’s Boutique. 196 E. 6th St. (605) 271-1824.

Christmas Open House

November 5 & 6

Join us at Junk in the Trunk for our Christmas Open House. Holiday décor, prize drawings, hot apple cider, cookies and more! 1918 W. 41st St. (605) 338-5510.

WINTERFEST

Cardinal Gym

COMMUNITY

Luverne

Create a Kids Tree

Create a special tree for that special kiddo. Choose from a huge selection of beautiful ornaments the kids are sure to love. Kidtopia. 901 S. Highline Pl., (605) 275-4825.

Save Up to $200!

$200 mail-in rebate on a set of four tires on now! Expires November 30, 2022. $200 when purchased with a GM or BuyPower card®. Eligible tire brands: Bridgestone, Continental, Goodyear, Hankook and Pirelli. Call either the Luverne, MN, (507) 283-9171 or Rock Rapids, IA, (712) 472-2595, location for details!

Home for the Holidays!

There’s nothing better that coming home for the holidays! Experience small-town charm and create lasting memories this holiday season. Head on over to Luverne — you’ll love the life! www.cityofluverne.org

CANTATA

Performing

Every Friday is Black Friday!

Shop our new deals each Friday! Blue Mound Liquor. 319 W. Main St., Luverne, MN. (507) 449-5052.

Party Trays

The holiday season is just around the corner. Mary’s Mountain Cookies offers many options for your special gatherings including party trays and celebration cookies. We are able to cater to any size of event! Call our store at (605) 275-0060 and let us help you make your holiday season even sweeter! Mary’s Mountain Cookies. 701 N. Phillips Avenue.

Celebrate the Season

Celebrate the holidays with festive and unique décor and gifts from Oak Ridge Nursery. 2217 S. Splitrock Blvd., Brandon, SD. (605) 582-6565.

LUVERNE, MN

FlannelFEST

Saturday, December 3, 2022

Big Top Tents & Events, Luverne, MN. Chili cook off, bean bag tournament, beer pong tournament, pizzas, pitchers & puzzles, karaoke and more!

INFO www.luvernechamber.com

Stack ‘em Up!

Vintage suitcases are ideal for accessorizing a room, extra storage or repurposed into a piece of furniture. Find several vintage suitcases in a variety of sizes and colors in the Nauti Nice booth at I-29 Antiques. I-29 south to Tea exit 73, then west 1/4 mile.

Open 7 days a week. (605) 368-5810.

Kickee for Christmas! So soft, they will want to wear them all day! Kickee Pants silky-soft PJs will keep them comfy on winter mornings — and looking adorable when Santa comes down the chimney. Available at Stride Rite. 2425 S. Shirley Ave. (605) 362-7728.

Thomas Egan (1835-1882)

While no photos of Thomas Egan are known to exist, this engraving of him was made from a sketch drawn by a newspaper reporter during the murder trial. The jury found Egan guilty and a sentence of death by hanging was pronounced by the Minnehaha County District Court. His attorneys then filed an appeal with the Supreme Court of Dakota Territory. Image owner: Siouxland Heritage Museums.

THE HANGING OF an Innocent Man

BY WAYNE FANEBUST

Thomas Egan came to America from Ireland in 1855; one of countless thousands of Irish people who sought to escape the hunger and poverty of their native county. His ship landed in Philadelphia, so he could not claim the distinction of arriving at Ellis Island, where the Statue of Liberty famously greeted the incoming huddled masses. Although America was struggling to stay united, tension between the North and South, over the issue of slavery, was threatening to destroy the nation that many foreigners saw as the ideal place to live. The Civil War was on the horizon, but Thomas Egan was not destined to serve in the Union

Army, as did thousands of other Irishmen. He did, however, find his way to Wisconsin where he married a widow, Mary Hayden Lyons.

The couple went further west to Dakota Territory, where in 1876, they settled on a homestead in Grand Meadow Township, in the northwestern part of Minnehaha County, north of Hartford. Upon arrival, the family consisted of Thomas and Mary, and their three boys, for Mary’s daughter, Catherine, stayed in Iowa with relatives. The mischievous and sometimes annoying girl rejoined the family in 1879, to live with her step brothers, Sylvester, John and Tommy. Catherine married a neighbor, James Van Horn, a man that

Thomas Egan disliked, but to all appearances, the combined families were living the good life. Just then the “Dakota Boom” had settled into Dakota Territory ushering in several years of prosperity.

The summer of 1880 was one of good weather, excellent crops and abundant pasture for livestock. But there was tension and trouble within the Egan family as both Thomas and Mary had spoken to lawyers about a possible divorce. Along with that, Egan’s quarrel with the Van Horns over a tree claim worsened. Then on September 12, 1880, Tommy, his father, and a neighbor, John Ryan, who had been working with Egan and

THE HANGING OF AN INNOCENT MAN

Early day justice in Minnehaha County, Dakota Territory, overlooked innocence when gallows were erected near this site for the hanging of Thomas Egan, a pioneer immigrant farmer from County Tip-perary in Ireland. Egan settled in Dakota in 1876.

Egan was arrested, tried, convicted and hanged for causing the death of his wife, Mary. She was murdered in September. 1880, on the family home-stead farm 20 miles northwest of Sioux Falls, north of Hartford. She was found in the cellar of their sod home, dead from a bloody beating.

The suspicion of neighbors, which promptly spread through the community, centered on Egan. He was immediately taken into custody and placed in jail in Sioux Falls where he remained until the hang-ing. Many years later, a surprising revelation would prove his complete innocence.

Mary Hayden Lyons was a widow with a five year old daughter, Catherine, when she married Egan, in 1866, at Madison, Wisconsin. When the couple later moved, Catherine remained behind with relatives. Three sons, Sylvester, John and Tommy, were born to Thomas and Mary Egan before Cather-ine rejoined the household in Dakota Territory. Soon thereafter, on November 23, 1879, Catherine married a neighbor, James Van Horn. During the trial, James and Catherine Van Horn testified for the prosecution. a fact which angered Egan greatly.

THE HANGING OF AN INNOCENT MAN

When the day of sentencing arrived, Territorial Judge Jefferson P. Kidder asked Egan if he had any-thing to say. With an angry scowl he replied “Judge, I have nothing against anybody in the Court, or anybody around the country, except the Van Horns. They betrayed me and may the curse of God be upon them. I can stand it, Sir. The law may not reach the Van Horns, but the curse of God will.”

Catherine Van Horn lived 45 years with the words of her stepfather ringing in her ears. On June 3,1927, on her death bed, at age 65, in Seattle, Washington, she confessed that she had killed her mother. She wrote, “Back in South Dakota in the early ‘80’s I killed my mother. We quarreled and I hit her again and again over the head until she died. No one ever suspected me. My stepfather, Thomas Egan, was hung for the crime. He died vowing his innocence.”

It took three drops from the hangman’s trap door on July 13,1882, to end the life of Thomas Egan. On the first drop, the rope broke and Egan was carried back to the platform. On the second drop, a deputy inadvertently broke Egan’s fall and the hang-ing man was dragged to stand on the trap door a third time. Following the third drop, the official physician declared him dead.

Marker location: Sioux Falls, 6th St & Main Ave

Text author: Robert Huey

his son that day, discovered Mary’s dead body in the cellar of their prairie home. Her body bore clear signs of blunt force trauma.

The kitchen was a mess, looking as if there had been a struggle and the cellar door in the middle of the kitchen was not properly closed. Blood was found near the opening of the trap door. A buggy was parked next to the house, but there was no smoke coming from the chimney. To every eye, the scene was baffling. Thomas went into the cellar and after finding the body of his wife, he yelled out to Ryan that Mary had been killed.

Catherine and the Van Horn family members were notified of the tragic death of

Mary Egan. Suspicion immediately settled in on Thomas Egan, for it was known that his relationship with his wife was quarrelsome and rough. Although one would expect that any murderer would have fled the area, Thomas Egan did not. He was just then thinking about his wife’s funeral and attending to chores. Nevertheless, he was placed under a citizen’s arrest and three men, John Van Horn, Frank Van De Mark, and Elon Warren, loaded up the suspect and at gunpoint, he was taken to Sioux Falls, turned over to Sheriff Joe Dickson, all the while Egan insisting that he was innocent.

Nevertheless, for the next fourteen months, Thomas Egan languished behind bars, vilified

by the local press and for all intents and purposes, he was presumed guilty. He had frequent visits from priests, but none from his three sons for the Van Horns would not allow them to see and talk to their dad. Strangely, however, Sheriff Joe Dickson developed a close relationship with his reluctant prisoner.

The trial of Thomas Egan for the murder of Mary Egan began in the November 1881 term of court in Sioux Falls. The prosecutor was J. W. Carter, assisted by former district attorney A. M. Flagg and attorney Edward Parliman. Egan was represented by two prominent Sioux Falls attorneys: C. H. Winsor and L. S. Swezey. R. F. Pettigrew was a

ERECTED IN 1993 BY THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY AND SOUTH DAKOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETIES AND THE MINNEHAHA CENTURY FUND

The Supreme Court of Dakota Territory

The courtroom of the Supreme Court of Dakota Territory at Yankton was most inauspicious, and the setting, furnishings, and furniture were very simple. Note that there were only three justices, and they had not yet begun to wear black judicial robes. After the appeal was argued, the territorial supreme court denied Egan’s request to overturn his murder conviction.

part of the defense team immediately after the arrest of Egan, but he was thereafter elected to represent Dakota Territory in Congress, so he was unable to continue as counsel. Since Pettigrew was a tenacious and tough-minded man, known to be especially aggressive in court, his absence denied Egan the benefit of his service.

The man who presided over the Egan case was Jefferson P. Kidder, a long time Dakota resident. Kidder was one of three justices on the territorial Supreme Court and along with that he was a trial judge under the federal court system. Kidder was a very popular Dakotan, having served two terms as the territorial delegate to Congress. He was intelligent, fair-minded and capable and had a reputation to take a merciful position when it came to sentencing those who were convicted by a jury.

The trial of this non-high profile defendant

drew large crowds of people coming from other parts of Dakota, Iowa and Nebraska. This was typical of the times. In an era when the menu of leisure time activities was very limited, the courtroom was a venue that filled the void. If those in attendance were hoping to hear graphic and salacious testimony, they were not disappointed.

From the outset of the trial, the prosecution was in control. Egan’s three sons were allowed to testify although they lied about their ages, and the youngest, Tommy, was only six years old. There was testimony from the three boys that Egan frequently hit Mary, called her names and knocked her down. There was testimony from a witness that Egan intended to rid himself of Mary in favor of a younger woman. William Van Horn produced a hardwood picket pin that he claimed he found near the Egan house. Although he had had it in his possession for 16 months,

Judge Jefferson P. Kidder

without turning it over to the authorities, it was admitted into evidence as the probable murder weapon.

The defense team produced a case that lacked professionalism, passion and with no valid points toward innocence. They were clearly out-lawyered by their opponents as they failed to pursue any number of lines of cross examination. Another factor was the defendant was Irish Catholic. For decades preceding the Egan trial, the Irish Catholics in America were vilified, hated and hit with the nastiest forms of discrimination. They were called names, denied employment except for the most menial jobs; their homes and churches were destroyed in the pursuit of prejudicial political gain on a national level. In short, simply being Irish Catholic was a liability.

The jury was given instructions by Judge Kidder and after a short deliberation, he was found “guilty as charged,” even though there

was no direct evidence linking Thomas Egan to the death of his wife. He was sentenced to death by hanging to take place on January 13, 1882. Upon hearing the sentence, Egan told Kidder that he could accept his fate, but in open court, he condemned the Van Horns, saying that they betrayed him and that and warned that the curse of God was upon them.

The actual date of the hanging was July 13, 1882, an event not to be missed by people living in the area. Public hangings were wellattended during the frontier era. Whole families stopped what they were doing and made their way to the gallows. It was a time for a reunion of sorts, with picnic lunches and an overnight stay in a local hotel. It was thought

that seeing a condemned person die, would have a wholesome effect, a lesson in life so to speak. And so it was when Egan met his fate.

On the morning of his execution, Egan was positioned on the trap door of the scaffold, a noose was placed around his neck and the executioner, Sheriff Dickson, sprung the trap.

To the utter shock of those who were there to witness and assist in the hanging, the rope broke and Egan fell to the ground. Four men hurried to the writhing man and hauled him back up to the scaffold. Another rope was procured, but not properly placed on his neck, the trap door was released too soon and again, he dropped to the ground. As it turned out, it took three drops to end the life of Thomas Egan.

The shocking execution of the luckless Irishman became the subject of numerous newspaper articles, all of which explained, in graphic terms, how the hanging was badly bungled. The New York Times, a Westwatching newspaper, called it a “Horrible Hanging,” as if it was sending out a warning to all those who wanted to venture out to the frontier: don’t do it for this could happen to you. A Black Hills newspaper also contributed to the bad publicity that Sioux Falls officials were forced to wear like a badge of infamy.

The first legal execution in Sioux Falls left a host of bad memories that long festered in the minds of men and women. For a family at nearby Canton, Egan’s hanging was the cause of shock and profound sorrow. On July 15, 1882, Mary Richardson, the eleven-year-old daughter of J. D. Richardson overheard her father and others discussing the hanging of Egan, and for some bizarre reason, she went to the barn, put a rope around her and was left suspended with her toes barely touching the dirt. She was later found dead.

Nor was that the only bizarre occurrence in the wake of the shocking death of Thomas Egan. On January 19, 1900, the Daily ArgusLeader printed an article that supported Egan’s consistent claims of innocence. It was reported that Alice Van Horn, sister-in-law to Catherine Van Horn, confessed to having murdered Mary Egan. It was a death bed confession at a hospital in Oregon, set forth in a letter sent to relatives in South Dakota. It resulted in a flurry of questions about Egan’s innocence but little else.

Finally on June 3, 1927, Catherine “Kate” Van Horn made a death bed confession, in a Seattle, Washington, hospital, that she was the actual killer of her mother, explaining in some detail, how the murder was committed. The confession was made to an attending physician, who wrote it down ver batim. Catherine admitted that she had quarreled with her mother and hit her over the head with a pick-pin until she was dead, after which, she dumped the body into the cellar and ran away. The confession has been accepted as genuine, thus providing closure for the family and the community. Thomas Egan died for a crime he did not commit.

Stuff It!

(On Second Thought, Don’t!)

BY JIM MATHIS

Everyone has their own Thanksgiving favorites. Some look forward to a day filled with televised parades and football, or a big family feast with the adults at one table and the kids at another. Other people are just waiting for a slice of pumpkin pie, a centerpiece to the whole season of pumpkin spice. Some like cranberries or sweet potatoes or green beans with fried onions. Turkey has plenty of fans; an estimated 46 million of the big birds will be eaten this Thanksgiving. That’s a lot of legs and thighs. No matter what your favorite is, everyone has

something to be thankful for. What do I look forward to most on the Thanksgiving table? Stuffing. Well, technically it’s dressing since I won’t be stuffing it anywhere except my face. More on that in a minute. I love stuffing in just about every form I’ve tried. My mom used to make really good wild rice stuffing that was nutty and rich. Cornbread makes wonderful stuffing as does French bread, white bread and sourdough. No matter what your base is, there are any number of things you can add like apples, collard greens, pecans,

or winter squash. I like to start with the bread and add a whole lot of other goodies to kick it up.

I start with a bunch of toasted, cubed bread. You can use leftover French or Italian bread and cut it into cubes, or I often buy a couple of bags of the stuffing mix at Breadsmith. Then I start to add the goodies. I like to sweat a diced yellow onion and a couple of cloves of garlic. To that I’ll add a bunch of chopped mushrooms. I usually use at least two different kinds like Cremini and oyster or trumpet and shitake.

As those cook down, I’ll transfer them to a big bowl with the bread. Then I brown a pound of Italian sausage, and when it’s done, it goes in the bowl as well. I’ll toss in a bunch of fresh sage, thyme, salt and pepper and mix it all together and add enough chicken stock to get all the bread moist, but not too wet.

This wonderful concoction goes into a 9” x 12” casserole dish. It will cook in the oven beside the turkey for about a half-hour to fortyfive minutes covered, then another fifteen minutes uncovered to get the top crispy.

This is a savory casserole from heaven to me. I’ll take a little bit of turkey, a small scoop of mashed potatoes and some green bean casserole, then I fill up the empty spots on my plate with stuffing. A little drizzle of gravy and I’m good. Honestly, if I thought I could get away with it, I’d skip cooking the turkey and just do the side dishes.

Since I don’t stuff it, I really should call what I’m making “dressing” instead of “stuffing.” But we’ve always called it stuffing, so I’ll stick to that. Why not stuff the stuffing in the bird? First there’s the whole food safety issue. If you put the stuffing in the cavity of the bird, it’s there soaking up all of the juices. That means all of that stuff inside needs to be cooked to 165 degrees, so you don’t poison your Aunt Gertrude with salmonella. By the time the stuffing is heated up, you’ve probably over-cooked the bird. The other big reason is volume. As I said, I really like the stuff and the space inside that cavity just won’t hold the volume of stuffing that I need to fill my belly. The final reason for a pan full of dressing instead of a bird full of stuffing is the aforementioned crispy top (and crispy edges). When you cook it in the bird, it doesn’t get crispy. Some like their stuffing soft and moist, others like the crunchy parts. With the pan you can get both; win, win.

Whether you’re thankful for a day of watching football or a traditional family feast, or gearing up for a Black Friday shopping spree, I hope your holiday is everything you want. I just want some leftover stuffing and maybe a little gravy.

Do yourself a favor, eat something good today.

When he’s not cooking a Thanksgiving feast, Jim runs ADwërks, an ad agency in Sioux Falls.

Master OF WINE

As I sit in my restaurant looking for inspiration to write a wine article, I stare blankly at the massive wood beams, and my eyes are drawn to my Level I Sommelier certificate. Suddenly vivid memories flood my mind. It’s been 13 years since I tested for my certification, yet I can remember almost every wine I tasted through the two-day event. A memory that will never leave me is that of Randa Warren. I had the privilege of being taught by her. She is a Master Sommelier. In 2007, she became the 16th woman in the world to be a Master Sommelier and one of 96 men and women in the U.S. to be a Master Sommelier and 167 total men and women in the world. She is a master of wine.

By definition, a Sommelier is a waiter who takes charge of the wines in his/her service or a wine steward. Today, a Sommelier is a respected expert of wine who has gone through rigorous testing and blind tastings. In 1998-1999, Randa Warren passed the Certified and Advanced WSET programs, as well as the Introductory Sommelier course at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park through the Court of Master Sommeliers. In 2000, she went on to pass the grueling Advanced Sommelier Exam on her first attempt and in 2001 Randa passed the final, 2-year WSET Diploma program that is a prerequisite to the Master of Wine program. The same year, she became a Certified Wine Educator through the Society of Wine Educators.

She led me and about thirty others in a blind tasting. We tasted five total wines: two whites and three reds. She taught us how the Masters taste wine and how to use something they call the Deductive Method. This process is how a Master Sommelier takes clues from the sight, smell, and taste of a wine to come to a conclusion as to what its identity might be. Now, we’re not just talking about concluding that a heavy red wine is Cabernet. No, we were to ascertain not only the grape varietal in each wine, but also the country it came from, the region it was grown in, the level of quality, and the vintage.

Here is the Master’s way of blind tasting a wine:

Deductive Method Sight

Assess the wine’s clarity, brightness, color, and viscosity. Look for clues that might tell you how much alcohol is in the wine. For example, if the legs or tears are slow to form and stream back into the bowl of the glass, this will indicate a high alcohol concentration.

Deductive Method Smell

Look for obvious flaws, intensity of smell, and try to pick out fruit, earth, and wood aromas. Here’s a tip from Randa when smelling wine:

BY RICCARDO TARABELSI

after you’ve inhaled the aroma from the wine glass with your nose, open your mouth for a second and let in some air. This technique will heighten your senses and allow you to pick out more flavors.

Deductive Method Taste

There are lots of things that are happening on our palates, but here are just a few things to look for: sweetness, body, fruit, earth, wood, alcohol, acidity, tannins, and finish. Deciphering what each of these are in your blind glass will give you lots of clues as to where the wine might be from. For example, a wine that literally makes your mouth water has high acidity. Wines that are high in acid make your mouth salivate, which is an indicator that the wine is from a cool climate like Italy. Typically, wines that have a low acidity are from warm climates like California.

Once you have completed these methods, you should have enough data to draw a conclusion as to where the wine is from. Is it a New World wine or an Old World wine? Old World refers to Europe while the New World encompasses North and South America, Africa, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. As a rule, fruit-driven wine is from the New World, and earth-driven is from the Old World.

For example, a light-colored red wine with high acidity and a musty nose, prominent rustic flavors, and salient cherry flavors is almost just enough information to guess that the wine is Old World (not fruitdriven,) from a cool climate (high acidity,) and is probably a Sangiovese (cherry flavors.) In fact, this was the third wine we tried, and it was a 2006 Chianti.

Blind tasting is one of the quickest ways to learn about flavor profiles and varietal tendencies. It also teaches you to be very descriptive. In fact, the more descriptive you are when taking the Master Sommelier exam, the better. They take points off for not describing the wine enough, and as Randa told us all: you learn more from the wines you identify wrong, than the ones you guess right. Sounds like a good life lesson to me. Have a Happy Thanksgiving and Carpe Vino!

Riccardo and Marybeth are the owners of R Wine Bar & Kitchen, Maribella Ristorante, Brix Wine Bar, and R Catering. They have created places known for their warm hospitality in Downtown Sioux Falls along with their incredible team and their three sons, Dante, Berent (fiancée Molli,) and Jaxon. For all of your wine questions, feel free to contact Riccardo at riccardo@rwinebar.com, riccardo@ciaomaribella.com, or riccardo@brixwine.bar.

Dignity & SMALL ACTS OF KINDNESS

BY LURA ROTI

South Dakota is a beautiful state. However, I would not say the best scenery is along Interstate-90. There is an exception. The Missouri River. My favorite view of the Missouri River occurs when I’m heading west on I-90. Just before Chamberlain, I find myself atop a high bluff overlooking the Missouri River. Its grandeur amazes me every time. And overlooking this view today is Dignity. A Dale Lamphere statue of an indigenous woman designed, according to the South Dakota Tourism website, “to honor the cultures of the Lakota and Dakota people.”

The first time we noticed her, we made an unplanned detour to appreciate her close up. She is magnificent. I share this back story because a few weeks ago, I was at a gathering, visiting with a new friend and noticed her Dignity pin. I complimented it and Erika Nesiba said, “she’s yours now.” Erika then shared that she received her first Dignity pin this way and today, she purchases several so she can pay the kindness forward. I immediately pinned Dignity to my lapel. Acts of kindness stand out.

The memory of Erika’s kindness resurfaces each time I wear this pin. This pin means much more to me than if I’d purchased it for myself. The more I think about it, an unexpected act of kindness is dignity in action. Yes, we expect to receive cards or gifts on birthdays or holidays, but a kind note from a friend, “just because”seems to carry more weight.

In the midst of 2020, I received a card of encouragement from my friend

Connie. Along with the thoughtful handwritten note, she included a small wallet-size card with the words, “You Matter,” printed across it. Boy, did I need to hear this! At the time I was spending two hours a day remote schooling...or should I say, arguing with our fourth-grade daughter.

To make time for work and remote school, I began my workday at 4 a.m. To say it was a dark time in my life would be an understatement. Connie’s unexpected note was timed perfectly. I pinned it to the wall near my desk as a constant reminder...of so many things – namely I am fortunate to have amazing women in my life.

Until this statue and its replica pin, I had not given the word “dignity” much thought. Defined by Webster as “bearing, conduct, or speech indicative of self-respect,” dignity is truly a trait to aspire to. It is a word I would use to describe the female mentors and friends I am grateful to have in my life.

Topping this list is my mom...I nearly said, “of course.” But I know none of us have control over who we are born to, so when we have great parents, it is a gift.

I recently stayed with my mom while I was working on some stories in northwestern South Dakota. I was wearing the Dignity pin and she commented on it. I remembered Erika’s kindness and gave my pin to my mom. Before my visit I had purchased a few extra so that I could continue to pay this kindness forward.

Courtesy of South Dakota Department of Tourism

Courtesy of South Dakota Department of Tourism

& family

Fall Crafts for Kids

Turkey Leaf Clothespins

Materials: Brown cardstock, red and yellow construction paper, glue, scissors, googly eyes, clothespins, and leaves.

Cut circles from brown cardstock about an inch wide.  Glue the googly eyes onto the brown circles.  Cut small squares from yellow paper, thåen fold them in half to create the turkey’s beak.  Trim any excess to even out the beak.  From red paper, cut small, oblong, and rounded shapes for the turkey’s snood.  Glue the snood to the back of the bottom of the beak, then glue the beak to the brown circles under the eyes.  Next, glue the turkey heads to the end portion of the clothespin that opens.  Using your preferred leaf (or leaves), open the clothespin and place them in, pinching it closed to hold it in place.  You now have the cutest little turkey leaf clothespins!

BY JESS WEISCHEDEL

Straw Hat Scarecrow Wreath

Materials: Straw hat, pipe cleaners, a large pom pom, buttons (or alternative options for eyes), glue, scissors (strong enough to cut pipe cleaners), straw or yarn for hair, and fall leaves or other accessories to add as a final touch to your scarecrow.

The accessories used for the facial features can vary, and it’s really up to you and your preferences and the materials available.  For this example, we used two black buttons for the eyes, a large red pom pom wrapped in a red pipe cleaner for the nose, and a black pipe cleaner for the mouth.  By using pipe cleaners, we were able to poke the ends through the straw hat and secure on the inside of the hat.  This way, we didn’t have to use glue, which can sometimes fail to keep things in place.  This is also why we wrapped the red pom pom with a red pipe cleaner, once we realized the glue wasn’t going to work very well.  It’s a fantastic solution, and easier, too.  We used scissors to trim some white pipe cleaners, then threaded those through the black buttons to secure them in place, while at the same time creating some whites for the eyes.  Then, we added the nose and mouth, bending the pipe cleaner in order to give the scarecrow some character.  Add some glue around the base of the face, then add some straw or other material to create some hair.  We had some crinkled paper meant for shipping materials, and it worked perfectly!  Next, add some accessories such as fall garland, real fall leaves, sunflowers, or whatever else you think will look festive and fun.  Hang your scarecrow by the front door for a welcoming friend to greet your guests. This will work nicely as a transitional piece as well.  Turn it into a snowman or a Santa Claus for the holidays, a leprechaun for St. Patrick’s Day, a bunny for Easter, and any other character you can come up with throughout the year!

CESM: The Latest Tool for Faster and Easier Breast Biopsies

BY ALYSSA WALTMAN, AVERA HEALTH

For most women, breast mammograms are routine — a test and a negative report. For others, the results are unclear; something is spotted and more images may be needed. Traditionally, the additional workup would include additional mammogram pictures followed by ultrasound. If results were still indeterminate, a breast MRI could be performed.

Within recent years, a new technology called contrast enhanced mammography (CESM) was developed as an additional tool to solve indeterminate cases. Avera was one of the first hospitals to use this new technology as a diagnostic tool. Even more recently, CESM has become a way that we can image the breast and perform a biopsy of a suspicious area.

“We are one of only a few health care entities to offer this new technology currently, but I believe this will become standard care around the country in only a few years,” said Daniel Sova, MD, radiologist at Avera Breast Center.

How CESM-Guided Breast Biopsy Works

CESM is most often used when routine mammography comes back inconclusive. The patient receives a contrast dye via IV through the arm. On screen, the contrast lights up potential abnormalities in the breast that were not distinguishable with conventional mammography, differentiating any suspicious lesions from normal breast tissue.

Through a combination of low- and high-energy X-rays, the contrast agent highlights areas where there is increased blood flow — a sign that can be associated with cancer.

If a biopsy is needed, the radiologist can use the CESM image to guide a sampling needle to the precise location of the suspicious area and extract the cells for testing. This is an outpatient procedure and no sedation is necessary; only local anesthetic is needed. In total, the procedure takes less than 15 minutes.

Who Should Use CESM-Guided Breast Biopsy

Typically, the patients who undergo CESM are those with dense breast tissue or scarring, which doesn’t easily allow radiologists to see the concerning areas, said Rhonda Engebretson, Breast Health Manager at Avera Breast Center.

“The danger of not finding breast abnormalities right away is that it delays diagnosis and allows a cancer to grow,” said Sova. “Metastatic cancer is devastating.”

Benefits of CESM Breast Cancer Biopsy

The benefits of CESM technology offer a combination of simplicity and accuracy for both the patient and the surgeon.

Benefits include:

• Saving money. CESM-guided biopsy costs significantly less than MRI-guided biopsy, which was the traditional way to biopsy occult lesions. Check your health plan for potential out-of-pocket cost.

• Comfort for patient. During an MRI-guided breast biopsy, the patient lies on her stomach. For the CESM-guided biopsy, she sits in a chair like a regular mammo for the images and biopsy.

• Shorter duration. Likewise, the CESM-guided biopsy takes barely longer than a regular mammo, while the MRI-guided biopsy could take nearly an hour.

• Accurate needle placement. The contrast dye easily shows the radiologist where the needle needs to be inserted in the breast to withdraw the biopsy.

Talk to your primary care provider about routine health screenings, including breast screenings. You can find a mammogram location near you at Avera.org/mammogram.

Ballet Kids

by Holly Sterling

Stretchy leggings on? Ballet shoes in the bag? Let’s go! Join Thomas and his fellow dancers as they’re welcomed into the studio for their Saturday ballet class. There are feet positions to perfect and steps to learn—first position, plie, up on your toes, relevé—and turns and jumps, too. Everyone is getting ready for their first performance, The Nutcracker—and now it’s time to pick out costumes! This warm celebration of dancing, a companion to Holly Sterling’s Karate Kids, is inspired by the author’s time learning ballet as a young child. It’s sure to be a hit with little ones taking a class, free-form dancers at home, and those who are hoping to be a ballet kid one day, too. In a gentle introduction to ballet, a little boy and his friends gather for their dance class to learn some moves—and get excited about their debut performance.

Ages 3 yrs - 7 yrs candlewickpress.com

All Through the Night: Important Jobs That Get Done at Night by Polly Faber

The sky is getting dark. In the city, a little girl is eating her dinner, brushing her teeth, and getting ready for bed. Meanwhile, her mother is putting on her coat and getting ready to go to work. Where is she going and who will she see along the way? As the night goes on, readers will see nurses, cleaners, delivery workers, doctors, police officers, journalists, and many other workers who help keep the city running all through the night. This beautifully illustrated picture book showcases the workers that keep a city running all through the night and make it ready for the new day.

Ages 2 yrs - 5 yrs candlewickpress.com

Ada and the Galaxies by Alan Lightman; Olga Pastuchiv

New York Times best-selling author Alan Lightman, in collaboration with Olga Pastuchiv, brings galaxies close in a stunning picture-book tribute to the interconnectedness of the natural world. Layering photographs taken from the Hubble telescope into charming and expressive art, illustrator Susanna Chapman zooms in on one child’s experiences: Ada knows that the best place for stargazing is on the island in Maine where she vacations with her grandparents. By day, she tracks osprey in the trees, paddles a kayak, and hunts for shells. But she’s most in her element when the sun goes down and the stars blink to life. Will the fog this year foil her plans, or will her grandfather find a way to shine a spotlight on the vast puzzle of the universe . . . until the weather turns?

Ages 4 yrs - 8 yrs candlewickpress.com

The Real Dada Mother Goose: A Treasury of Complete Nonsense by Jon Scieszka

Mother knows best, but sometimes a little nonsense wins the day. Inspired by Dadaism’s rejection of reason and rational thinking, and in cahoots with Blanche Fisher Wright’s The Real Mother Goose, this anthology of absurdity unravels the fabric of classic nursery rhymes and stitches them back together (or not quite together) in every clever way possible. One by one, cherished nursery rhymes—from “Humpty Dumpty” to “Hickory Dickory Dock,” “Jack Be Nimble” to “Mother Hubbard”—fall prey to sly subversion as master of fracture Jon Scieszka and acclaimed illustrator Julia Rothman refashion them into comics strips, errant book reports, anagrams, and manic mash-ups. Playfully reconstructed, the thirty-six oldnew rhymes invite further baloney, bringing kids in on the joke and inviting them to revel in reimagining. Featuring robust back matter, this irreverent take on the rhymes of childhood is a great gift for child readers, a rich classroom resource across grade levels, and a love song to a living language.

Ages 7 yrs - 10 yrs candlewickpress.com

THESE ARE JUST SOME OF THE WONDERFUL BOOKS FOR CHILDREN WE HAVE COME ACROSS THIS MONTH. WE HOPE TO SHARE WITH YOU SOME YOU HAVE NOT SEEN BEFORE AND ALSO INTRODUCE OTHERS BEING RELEASED IN THE NEAR FUTURE. ENJOY.

by Chitra Soundar

Clever Prince Veera and his best friend, Suku, are back in a vibrant new collection of stories riddled with surprises. When the prince’s great uncle, Raja Apoorva, invites the boys to the summer festival in Peetalpur, Prince Veera and Suku are excited to compete in the games. It’s no easy feat to make the peahen sing (when peahens can’t sing) or defeat the country’s champion wrestler, but Raja Apoorva’s riddles prove the ultimate test of the boys’ wit and wisdom. Who owns the tree that provides the palace figs? What intruder dared pull the Raja’s beard? And what are the secrets of the holy man and the astronomer? Packed with glorious trickster tradition, wise-cracking dialogue, and gemlike illustrations, these festive tales of two fast-thinking friends will captivate readers of all ages.

Ages 6 yrs - 9 yrs candlewickpress.com

Alan’s Big, Scary Teeth by Jarvis

Deep in the jungle lurks Alan the alligator, descended from a long line of very scary alligators. He prepares carefully—polishing his scales, brushing each of his big, scary teeth, and practicing his frightening faces—then sneaks into the jungle to terrorize the other critters. But after a long day of scaring, Alan loves to enjoy the crossword, run a warm mud bath . . . and take out his teeth, which nobody else knows are false. Until one morning, that is, when Alan wakes up and finds that his teeth are gone! Without those teeth, he’s just not very scary. And scaring is the only thing he knows how to do—or is it? Witty, charming, and playful storytelling in this 2017 Charlotte Zolotow Honor Book will have preschoolers cheering for Alan as he discovers a new way to fit in.

Ages 2 yrs - 5 yrs candlewickpress.com

Good Night, Little Bookstore by Amy Cherrix

Join the Little Bookstore’s friendly staff as they draw the curtain on another busy day of browsing and matchmaking. Choose a bedtime story, say your good nights, and pet the shop’s feline mascot on your way out. Snuggle up to a loved one for a read-aloud, then drift off to sweet dreams of adventure and enchantment to come. Drawing on the best tradition of classic bedtime books, Amy Cherrix’s lilting text brims with sound play, soothing patterns, and repetition, while E. B. Goodale’s bright, inclusive artwork offers people-watching at its best, conjuring the bustling, ineffable mood of a homespun hall of treasures. Penned by a bookseller and illustrated with warmth and zeal, this cozy homage to the neighborhood bookshop ends with a gallery of bookstores around the world, encouraging local engagement and offering a gentle reminder that books are gifts that keep giving, the most comforting treasure of all.

Ages 2 yrs - 5 yrs candlewickpress.com

Billy and Rose Forever Friends by Amy Hest

Best friends Billy and Rose, an industrious sheep and a laid-back pig, sometimes see things differently. When they play catch, Rose insists that Billy throws too high, and he counters that she throws too low. While Rose thinks washing clothes is the world’s biggest chore, Billy contends that playing the cello holds that distinction. Still, these endearing friends always find a way to work things out: What if Billy plays a cello serenade for Rose while she does her laundry? After all, what they really want is to be together. These four sweet stories by beloved children’s author Amy Hest are filled with gentle wit and enhanced by Kady MacDonald Denton’s delightfully expressive illustrations.

Ages 4 yrs - 8 yrs

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A Sliver of Moon and a Shard of Truth: Stories from India

Brayden

Sable, Hilton familyTom and Jerry, best friends of Amy Lucie, best friend of Rhett and Talya

Molly, best friend of Sheri Coy

Pickles, best friend of the Levy family

Lucy, best friend of the Huber familyHoss, best friend of the Taylor family

KC, best friend of Ella & Jen