2023_05_EtcMagazine_Volume22_Issue5

May 2023

Volume 22 • Issue 5

Gift Ideas for Mom

Strawberry

Angel Food

Cake Dessert

The Bark Spot

Now Open

From Mother’s Day to graduation celebrations, we bake scrumptious cookies that are sure to make every day sweeter!

With over 20 flavors of cookies baked fresh every day,

out & about

concierge 8

A New Spot for Your Furry Friends

The Bark Spot Now

Open in Brandon

calendar 14

May 2023

history 17

Horse Drawn Street Car

Line in Sioux Falls

The Bark Spot Now Open in Brandon A New Spot for Your Furry Friends

BY MARY MICHAELS | PHOTOS BY JULIE PRAIRIE PHOTOGRAPHY

The Bark Spot

704 S. 8th Avenue | Brandon, SD 605-582-2700 | thebarkspotsd.com

Booking Link: https://thebarkspot.portal.gingrapp.com

Find The Bark Spot on Facebook!

Lobby Hours: Daily from 7am - 9am, 12pm - 1pm and 4pm - 7pm

Abby Mutschler went to school for accounting. She worked in accounting. But then life took a funny turn.

“I have loved dogs all my life,” laughs Mutschler, “but I never would have imagined that someday I’d actually own a dog kennel!”

With help from her husband, Brady, Mutschler opened The Bark Spot in Brandon this past March.

“The previous kennel located in this spot closed, and we knew the owner,” Mutschler explains. “It just seemed like the right thing to

do, and we were excited about the opportunity to rebrand it as our own and keep a place for dogs open in Brandon.”

The Bark Spot offers doggie day care — either half-day or full-day — along with overnight boarding. Mutschler says they see quite a bit of day care during the weekdays and overnight boarding on the weekends. As people start to plan summer vacations, she adds, they are looking forward to more overnight guests.

The Mutschlers have three dogs of their

own — black labs Nova and Ranger and Boston terrier Tito — so Abby says a priority in opening The Bark Spot was to create a true home-away-from home for their canine friends.

“We spend lots of one-on-one time with the dogs,” she explains. “They aren’t just in their kennels all day. They roam around the halls with us and play both inside and outside.”

In the backyard, there are three separate areas for dogs to enjoy. Most times, Mutschler says, the dogs can play in one area, but the yard’s design allows them to separate little dogs from

bigger companions, if needed. Staff are always outside when the dogs are out to supervise the play and ensure it doesn’t get too noisy.

“We want to be good neighbors,” she says.

The inside play space — where dogs can get acquainted, run and play with toys — is a large room that the building’s owner designed with galvanized tin on one wall and cool exposed brick on another. An interesting fact Mutschler points out about the brick wall is that somewhere in its design is an actual brick from the Berlin wall.

Before the building had been used for a dog kennel, Mutschler explains, a photography business was located there and those owners lived right there on site. So, what had previously been human bedrooms transitioned perfectly to rooms for dogs. The Bark Spot can accommodate up to 33 dogs in the various kennel sizes. They have “little guy” kennels, cute house-shaped kennels for bigger dogs and even more spacious ones if pups from the same family want to bunk up together.

Mutschler gives plenty of credit to Brady for helping get The Bark Spot open.

“He’s my saving grace,” she says. “If I’ve been here all day, he’ll come close up for me. He’s also been great to get everything together, like our new self-service dog wash. We’re a good team.”

The dog wash is a new service available for anyone to use, complete with shampoo, towels, grooming tools and a jar of treats for pups to enjoy after a bath.

“We knew this was something people in Brandon were looking for, so it’s exciting that we can offer an additional service,” Mutschler says.

And, since Nova, Ranger and Tito often come to work with her, she adds with a laugh that she’s looking forward to using that selfservice dog bath and keep the labs’ hair out of their drains at home.

The Bark Spot lobby has open hours every day for pick-up and drop off — 7 to 9 in the morning, and then again from 12pm to 1pm and 4pm to 7pm.

“We wanted to provide that convenience

for every-day pick-ups and drop-offs,” Mutschler says, “but having those set hours means that in between lobby hours, staff can lock the doors and just go be with the dogs.”

Pup parents can call for bookings or use the convenient Gingr system for easy online booking and uploading vet records and other information about their pets. The Bark Spot also offers add-on services like frozen Kong treats and dog slushies, as well as daycare punch cards.

Since opening in March, Mutschler has been able to hire additional staff for daytime and nighttime supervision. Not only does this help with good care and companionship for the dogs, but it also provides her a little peace of mind since she and Brady are adding to their own pack at home with their first child due in October.

You can learn more about The Bark Spot through their website or on Facebook (where you can also find lots of adorable pictures of doggos at play).

May 2023

Master Poaching & Steaming Techniques

Thursday, May 4 • 5 – 6:30 p.m.

Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum

Vegetables, grains, proteins, pastas and starches all do well with these important cooking techniques. Build your cooking skills at this delicious class. Tools used will include induction and microwave. INFO (605) 367-4414.

The Good Night Theatre Collective Presents: Company

May 4 - 6 • 7:30 p.m. Washington Pavilion

A celebration of the relationships (and endings) that made us, all centered around our through-line, Bobby, as he celebrates his 35th year on earth! It’s the classic Stephen Sondheim showcase of the ins and outs of dating, marriages and divorces set to a soundtrack of iconic songs—it’s Company! This classic musical follows our protagonist as he navigates single-dom as he approaches 40, including unsolicited advice from his couple friends. This sensational musical was

awarded five Tony Awards for its recent Broadway revival. INFO (605) 367-6000.

May Art & Wine Walk

Friday, May 5 • 5 - 8:30 p.m. Downtown Sioux Falls Come downtown for the May Art & Wine Walk presented by Avera. Sip some wine and check out work from local artists at various downtown locations. Meeting local artists and viewing the art is free. Wine Sampling Punch Card…$25. Wine by the Glass…$5. Available for purchase at any wine-serving

location or DTSF Punch Card Station located at 11th & Phillips. INFO (605) 338-4009.

Falls Park Farmers Market Saturdays through October • 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Located on the north side of Falls Park, across from the Stockyards Ag Experience. Falls Park Farmers Market is the place to get your weekly supply of fresh flowers, vegetables, meat, and baked goods. Sip a cup of coffee, enjoy a burger, share a pizza. Plant your garden with lovely geraniums and heirloom

tomatoes. Our market offers delicious food, healthy plants, natural soaps, surrounded by beautiful scenery. No pets allowed due to public health concerns.

Sioux Falls Storm vs. Tulsa Oilers

Saturday, May 6 • 7:05 p.m.

Denny Sanford Premier Center Watch the Sioux Falls Storm of the Indoor Football League take on opponents from across the country at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center. INFO (605) 367-7288.

Car Hop

Sunday, May 7 • 5 - 7 p.m. Harrisburg United Methodist Church

Middle School and High School Youth Group is hosting a ‘50s-themed “Car Hop” event. This event was done in years past and was put on hold due to COVID-19, but we are excited to be bringing it

back. Youth members will be dressed in ‘50s themed attire and serve classic hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, drinks, and ice cream to anyone who wishes to attend this drive-up style event. The Car Hop will be a free will donation and we hope to see many people from the surrounding communities come for this fun evening.

Sioux Falls American Legion Post 15 Pancake Breakfast

May 7 • 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

SD Military Heritage Alliance 1600 W. Russell St.

All you can eat pancake breakfast with sausages, eggs, coffee, and juice. Served by American Legion Post 15 and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 15 for Boys State, Legion Baseball, Veterans assistance and Unit 15 projects. INFO siouxfallslegion.org.

Sioux Falls Canaries Season Opener

May 11 • 4:05 p.m.

Sioux Falls Stadium

Play ball! Come out to the Birdcage to cheer on the Sioux Falls Canaries as they take on teams from around the country. The Canaries are a proud member of the American Association, an official partner league of Major League Baseball. INFO or tickets (605) 336-6060.

Perfectly Prepared Pork Tenderloin Cooking Class

Thursday, May 11 • 5 p.m. Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum Flavor takes center stage as we learn to prepare and cook fresh pork tenderloin. Hands on cooking skills will be shared in this fast paced class. INFO (605) 367-4414.

Kenny Chesney: I Go Back Tour

Thursday, May 11 • 7:30 p.m. Denny Sanford Premier Center Kenny Chesney is coming

to Denny Sanford PREMIER Center on the “I Go Back Tour” with special guest Kelsea Ballerini. INFO (605) 367-7288.

Sioux Falls Canaries vs. Cleburne Railroaders

May 12 • 6:35 p.m.

Sioux Falls Stadium

Play ball! Come out to the Birdcage to cheer on the Sioux Falls Canaries as they take on teams from around the country. The Canaries are a proud member of the American Association, an official partner league of Major League Baseball. INFO (605) 336-6060.

One Voice Community Choir - Walk With Me with special guest comedian Bob Stromberg

May 13 • 7:30 p.m.

Prairie Hills Covenant Church 6000 E. 33rd Street A night of laughter, song,

South Dakota's delightfully unique winery

Enjoy Our Wines: Fruit • Rhubarb • Grape • Honey

Brandon Farmers Market

Most Saturdays• June – September•9 am to 1 pm

Brushstrokes on the Prairie

May 25th•June 29th•6 pm to 8ish Email Brushstokesontheprairie@gmail.com for more info & sign up

Burn n Brew

June15th•Workout at 4:30 pm Happy Hour: 5:15 pm

Public welcome•by Anytime Fitness Brandon

Plant & Sip by Brant Gardens•June 18th•Noon

Sunday in the Vineyard

2 to 5 pm•Live Music

June 11th•Billy Lurken

June 18th•Elisabeth Hunstad

June 25th•Dave Vanderlinde

Evening in the Vineyard

June 23rd•6–9 pm•Live Music•Food Wine•Retro Rock•Tacos de Gringo

Hours: Thursday through Monday: Noon - 6pm | Tastings until 5:30 pm 605-582-6471 | wildeprairiewinery.com | 48052 259th St. | Brandon, SD

Directions: From I-90 take exit 406 at Brandon, go 1 ½ miles North on Highway 11, then West on 259th Street for 1 ½ miles to our winery.

and encouragement! A free concert, appropriate for all ages, that will also feature hilarious comedian Bob Stromberg! Free admission. INFO bev@onevoice. community or 605-334-4172

Wells Fargo

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Saturday, May 13 • 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Falls Park

The Wells Fargo Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Falls Park is a family event that brings together the business and civic community of Sioux Falls and the surrounding area to recognize, appreciate and celebrate the cultural gifts and heritage of the Latino people in our midst. While observing this traditional Mexican holiday, Cinco de Mayo in Sioux Falls creates awareness of and develops pride in the diverse Latino cultures that make up our community. Latino food, dance, art, music, children’s activities and more make this a festive and fun family day.

Sioux Falls Canaries vs. Cleburne Railroaders

May 13 • 5:35 p.m.

Sioux Falls Stadium

Play ball! Come out to the Birdcage to cheer on the Sioux Falls Canaries as they take on teams from around the country. The Canaries are a proud member of the American Association, an official partner league of Major League Baseball. INFO (605) 336-6060.

Sioux Falls Canaries vs. Cleburne Railroaders

May 14 • 12:05 p.m.

Sioux Falls Stadium

Play ball! Come out to the Birdcage to cheer on the Sioux Falls Canaries as they take on teams from around the country. The Canaries are a proud member of the American Association, an

official partner league of Major League Baseball. INFO (605) 336-6060.

Fiber Fun at the Old Courthouse Museum

Sunday, May 14 • 1 - 4 p.m. Old Courthouse Museum • 200 West Sixth Street

Do you like to knit, crochet, needle work, or dabble in fiber arts? Come join members of the Crossthreads Fiber Guild to work on projects, get suggestions, and enjoy fiber friends! Free admission. INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com

Good Earth State Park

Summer Concert Series: Hegg Brothers

Sunday, May 14 • 4 - 5:30 p.m. Good Earth State Park

Join us for an outdoor summer concert. Each Sunday through July 30 at 4 p.m. This week is The Hegg Brother’s with the Snack Shack food truck. Some permanent seating is available, but visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or a blanket. The concert is free to attend. INFO (605) 213-1036.

Rosemaling Demonstration at the Old Courthouse Museum

Tuesday, May 16 • 1 - 4 p.m. Old Courthouse Museum 200 West Sixth Street

Eileen Halverson will be demonstrating the Norwegian folk art of Rosemaling (decorative painting) in the second-floor hallway of the Old Courthouse Museum from 1-4 p.m. Stop in any time for a demonstration or to ask questions. INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com

Sioux Falls Canaries vs. Lincoln Saltdogs

May 16 • 6:35 p.m.

Sioux Falls Stadium

Play ball! Come out to the Birdcage to cheer on the

Sioux Falls Canaries as they take on teams from around the country. The Canaries are a proud member of the American Association, an official partner league of Major League Baseball. INFO (605) 336-6060.

Sioux Falls Canaries vs. Lincoln Saltdogs

May 17 • 6:35 p.m.

Sioux Falls Stadium

Play ball! Come out to the Birdcage to cheer on the Sioux Falls Canaries as they take on teams from around the country. The Canaries are a proud member of the American Association, an official partner league of Major League Baseball. INFO (605) 336-6060.

Kid’s Activity Day May

Flowers! at the Old Courthouse Museum

Thursday, May 18 9 -11:30 a.m.

Old Courthouse Museum

200 West Sixth Street

Learn about history and make your own crafts to take home. 15 minute sessions run throughout morning and afternoon times. Call to reserve times. Free admission. INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com

Sioux Falls Canaries vs. Lincoln Saltdogs

May 18 • 6:35 p.m.

Sioux Falls Stadium

Play ball! Come out to the Birdcage to cheer on the Sioux Falls Canaries as they take on teams from around the country. The Canaries are a proud member of the American Association, an official partner league of Major League Baseball. INFO (605) 336-6060.

Good Earth State Park Summer Concert Series: Kevin Ryan

Sunday, May 21

4 - 5:30 p.m.

Good Earth State Park

Join us for an outdoor summer concert. Each Sunday through July 30 at 4 p.m. This week is Kevin Ryan with the Cheezy Noodles food truck. Some permanent seating is available, but visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or a blanket. The concert is free to attend. INFO (605) 213-1036.

Sioux Falls Canaries vs. Sioux City Explorers

May 22 • 6:35 p.m.

Sioux Falls Stadium

Play ball! Come out to the Birdcage to cheer on the Sioux Falls Canaries as they take on teams from around the country. The Canaries are a proud member of the American Association, an official partner league of Major League Baseball. INFO (605) 336-6060.

Sioux Falls Canaries vs. Sioux City Explorers

May 23 • 6:35 p.m.

Sioux Falls Stadium

Play ball! Come out to the Birdcage to cheer on the Sioux Falls Canaries as they take on teams from around the country. The Canaries are a proud member of the American Association, an official partner league of Major League Baseball. INFO (605) 336-6060.

Into the Pit Quarry Tour

Tuesday, May 23 • 9:30 a.m. Departs the Irene Hall Museum Resource Center

4300 N. Westport Avenue

Take a trip into an active quarry owned by Concrete Materials and view modern quarry techniques while discussing techniques of the past. Free Admission, space is limited; call (605) 3674210 to register in advance. Registration opens May 9th. siouxlandmuseums.com

Sioux Falls Canaries vs. Sioux City Explorers

May 24 • 6:35 p.m.

Sioux Falls Stadium

Play ball! Come out to the Birdcage to cheer on the Sioux Falls Canaries as they take on teams from around the country. The Canaries are a proud member of the American Association, an official partner league of Major League Baseball. INFO (605) 336-6060.

Victorian Tea Party at the Pettigrew Home & Museum

Wednesday, May 24 • 2 p.m. Pettigrew Home & Museum • 131 N. Duluth Avenue

Enjoy a tea in true Victorian fashion at the historic 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

Brushstrokes on the Prairie

May 25 • 6 - 8 p.m.

Wilde Prairie Winery 48052 259th St., Brandon, SD. South Dakota’s delightfully unique winery. Email brushstrokesontheprairie@ gmail.com for more information.

Into the Pit Quarry Tour

Thursday, May 25 • 9:30 a.m. Departs the Irene Hall Museum Resource Center 4300 N. Westport Avenue

Take a trip into an active quarry owned by Concrete Materials and view modern quarry techniques while discussing techniques of the past. Free admission, space is limited; call (605) 3674210 to register in advance.

Registration opens May 9th. siouxlandmuseums.com

Cemeteries of Sioux Falls Program

Thursday, May 25 • 2 p.m.

Irene Hall Museum Resource Center

4300 N. Westport Avenue

As soon as Sioux Falls was established and people began to live here, they also began to die here. Learn the history of Sioux Falls Cemeteries through photographs during this historical presentation. Space is limited, $5 admission. siouxlandmuseums.com

Fridays on the Plaza

Friday, May 26 • 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Dakota News Now

325 S. 1st Ave.

Fridays through September 1

Enjoy several food trucks and live music during Fridays on the Plaza every Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. this summer.

Good Earth State Park Summer Concert Series: Commonground

Sunday, May 28 • 4 - 5:30 p.m.

Good Earth State Park

Join us for an outdoor summer concert. Each Sunday through July 30 at 4 p.m. This week is Commonground with the Tacos de Gringo food truck. Some permanent seating is available, but visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or a blanket. The concert is free to attend. INFO (605) 213-1036.

Into the Pit Quarry Tour

Thursday, May 30 • 9:30 a.m.

Departs the Irene Hall Museum Resource Center

4300 N. Westport Avenue

Take a trip into an active quarry owned by Concrete Materials and view modern quarry techniques while discussing techniques of the past. Free admission, space is limited; call (605) 3674210 to register in advance.

Registration opens May 9th. siouxlandmuseums.com

HORSE DRAWN STREET CAR LINE in Sioux Falls

BY WAYNE FANEBUST

By mid-1880s, Sioux Falls was putting on metropolitan airs. Although it was a town with just a few thousand people, its citizens referred to their “metropolis” as the “Queen City.” It was actively challenging Yankton, the “Mother City,” as the leading town in Dakota Territory. Sioux Falls considered itself to be the best of Dakota and demanded respect accordingly.

The town enjoyed a building boom in 1886, with several new city blocks and fine residences going up. Sioux Falls had been blessed from the beginning with a fine location, but it was its people that made it stand out among western communities. Led by a group of aggressive, ambitious businessmen, the town became a model for growth and enterprise in the Northwest.

By 1886, Sioux Falls had a waterworks, telephones, gas heat and electric lights. It also

had a small packing plant, a polishing works, several thriving stone quarries and a number of wholesale houses. Town lots that sold for $80.00 in 1878 were selling for $800.00, its unpaved streets were muddy when wet, but never mind for men were busy looking back upon their frontier experiences while enjoying the landmarks of progress. Old photographs from the 1870s were hunted up, passed around and used to measure the rapid growth of the city.

Two and three story brick and stone buildings had replaced the frame structures along Phillips Avenue, and the residential section on the bluffs featured homes that were praised for their style and luxury. Notwithstanding all these desirable features, something was missing: Sioux Falls had no form of public transportation. But that was soon to change for a horse-drawn streetcar

line was just around the proverbial corner.

Sioux Falls’ biggest and most enthusiastic booster was R. F. Pettigrew, who had pitched his tent on town site dirt in 1870. Along with other leading citizens, “Frank” Pettigrew promoted the creation of a streetcar line that would inch its way around the town by way of horses and mules. It was a part of Pettigrew’s master plan that included another

railroad and a variety of manufacturing plants that would employ men and utilize local produce. All this would encourage population growth and increase the value of real estate.

After months of discussion, the city council granted a franchise to D. Elwell, who was the manager of the Queen Bee Mill. Elwell failed to take any steps toward building the line so the council looked to Pettigrew. He accepted the challenge and boldly stated that “I am willing to put in one mile of the line each year for three years,” and added that “we will want Phillips Avenue.” And while he approached the project with some caution, everyone knew that when Pettigrew wanted something, he wanted it desperately.

It took him about two weeks to commit to the project that he wanted to build for the benefit of the city as whole. But then out of nowhere, he had competition in the person of George Higgins from New York City. Higgins was an unknown quantity, who refused to post a bond, and was easily outgunned by Pettigrew, the home town entrepreneur. Under City Ordinance Number 41, Pettigrew got the green light and he formed a corporation called the Sioux Falls City Street Railway Company with a capital stock of $150,000.00. The ordinance allowed the company to operate the line by horse or electricity, so long as it was in operation by October 1, 1887.

Pettigrew had almost total control over the project and was determined to build it and have it up and running on time. Not long after he was granted the franchise, he posted

a $5,000.00 bond and he was off to Chicago to buy materials. But not before he hired an Omaha contractor to do the construction. Soon the dirt was flying. Meanwhile the cars were being made in Waterloo, Iowa. He wanted to model his line — the first and only in Dakota Territory — after the one in Winona, Minnesota.

The line started at the intersection of 6th Street and Phillips Avenue next to the Milwaukee Railroad depot. From there, it ran south on Phillips to 11th Street where it turned west to Summit Avenue. Only one mile was scheduled for 1887. An enthusiastic Pettigrew said that the venture wouldn’t make a profit during the first year of operation, nevertheless he said: “I will be willing to sink the expense of running the line just for the fun of hearing the bell ring as the cars roll up Phillips Avenue.”

On November 3, 1887, the horse-drawn street car made its first run. Patronage was surprisingly good and the first day’s revenue was $16.30. Thereafter receipts averaged about $15.00 per day as people seemed to be attracted by the newness and novelty of it all. Cars carried 12 to 15 passengers and the fare was 5 cents, although some folks didn’t understand the coin box and put in too much money. To Pettigrew the cars were his “beauties,” and, along with the horses and mules, were garaged at night at a facility on

11th Street, across the street from the present day Washington Pavilion.

If Pettigrew wasn’t impressed with the income potential from his street railway, he surely understood what its operation would mean to real estate values. Having public transportation through the developing residential areas of town was certain to make the new neighborhoods attractive to prospective buyers. The real estate firm of Pettigrew and S. L. Tate was going great guns, capitalizing on the sharp rise in the value of Sioux Falls real property. They could afford to tinker with something like a street railway when their land sales profits were so high. The streetcars brought status to the city, added to the speculative fever, and were a source of pride for Pettigrew and Tate.

In the spring of 1888, Pettigrew and Tate donated four acres of land on the southwestern edge of Sioux Falls for the location of the Norwegian Lutheran Normal School, now Augustana University. Pettigrew announced that along with the donation, he would extend his streetcar line “right up to the college door” on Summit Avenue. By summertime 1888, four cars were in operation with two more scheduled to be added, and as a bonus, stoves were promised for a warmer ride in winter.

Sioux Falls enjoyed a record year in 1888 as public-spirited citizens vied with one another

Workmen laying street railway on Phillips Avenue in downtown Sioux Falls during the summer of 1887. Image owner: Center for Western Studies

Lutheran Normal School

HORSE-DRAWN STREETCARS

At the urging of the Sioux Falls City Council, in March of 1887, Richard F. Pettigrew agreed to build and operate the city’s first public transit system. After the city council granted him a franchise, Pettigrew, who was a pub-lic-spirited civic leader and a visionary entrepreneur, imme-diately set out to construct a horse-drawn streetcar line. He had committed to build at least one mile of line each year for three years. He formed a corporation called the Sioux Falls City Street Railway Company with a capital stock of $150,000. As company president, Pettigrew had complete control over the venture. He was enthusiastic because the line would bring prestige to the city and raise real estate values, including his property.

The line started at the intersection of 6th Street and Phillips Avenue, running south on Phillips Avenue to 11th Street, then west to Summit Avenue. Pettigrew conceded that his line might not be profitable, but that he would build it for the city he loved and “for the fun of hearing the bell ring as the cars roll up Phillips Avenue.” On Novem-ber 3, 1887, the horse-drawn cars took the first passengers along Phillips Avenue, then just a dirt road. The cars, built in Waterloo, Iowa, carried up to 15 people. The fare was 5 cents. At first there were plenty of passengers because it was a new and novel experience. A stable was built on 11th Street and Main Avenue for the horses and streetcars.

In 1888, the line was extended south on Summit Avenue toward the town of South Sioux Falls, Pettigrew’s new industrial

HORSE-DRAWN STREETCARS

suburb. Four cars were in operation with two more scheduled to be added, along with a promise to install stoves for warmer winter rides. A year later, the line reached the area and terminated at the Buffalo House Hotel. The line also brought summer excursionists to “Pettigrew’s Pasture” near the hotel. It was a 60-acre menagerie of plains animals that included buffalo, prairie dogs, and deer.

Unfortunately, by 1889 the economic fortunes of Sioux Falls began to sag, and investors grew wary as the new decade began. By the fall of 1893 the entire nation was in the grip of a severe depression. By this time Petti-grew was a United States Senator with important connec-tions. But Pettigrew’s plans and projects, along with those of his fellow Sioux Falls boosters, were either slowed or stopped.

The horse-drawn streetcar line became a victim of the hard times. It was operated haphazardly during the depression years, and, as it was not making a profit, Petti-grew and his partners refused to put money into improve-ments or extensions. Employees who continued to work on the line were allowed to keep whatever money they took in from passengers. Finally the line ceased operation altogether in mid 1896, and three years later the cars and barn were sold and the tracks were torn up.

over plans for new city blocks. Proposals, blueprints and designs were flying around like paper airplanes. Real estate often sold at exorbitant prices, as if there wasn’t enough to go around.

It seems as if Pettigrew was pumped up as never before and his ambition seemed limitless. After the streetcar line reached the new college on Summit Avenue, it was extended further south to a new suburb called South Sioux Falls. Here Pettigrew and his allies set out to build factories that would make useful products by utilizing local produce and hiring local men. A menagerie with buffalo and other indigenous species, called “Pettigrew’s Pasture” became a

local destination and a three-story hotel named the Buffalo House Hotel became the dominant feature of the new community. And of course, the streetcar line carried people to and from the hotel.

Everything seemed to be going well for Pettigrew and his associates, but what they needed was a crystal ball, for unknown to the giddy investors, hard times were coming like a cloud laden with staggering losses.

In 1893, events in the east triggered an unprecedented financial collapse called the Panic of 1893. South Sioux Falls, which had been incorporated as a city, saw its factories fail. During the oppressive winter of 1893-94,

Pettigrew was forced to play spectator to an avalanche of ruined companies.

In the wake of the depression, the horsedrawn streetcar line limped along haphazardly after Pettigrew and Tate quit putting money into it. As it couldn’t support itself, service was cut back and employees were laid off. Those that stayed on were allowed to keep whatever money they made. After plodding along without direction and profit, the cars quit altogether by mid-1896, during the height of the great depression. In 1899, the cars and barn that housed them were sold and the tracks torn out, thus ending a short, but colorful chapter in local history.

DEDICATED IN 2002 BY “ME MINNEHAHA COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY. THE MARY CHIINON DAR FOUNDATION, AND THE CITY OF SIOUX FALLS

TEXT AUTHOR: WAYNE FANEBUST

MARKER LOCATION: SIOUX FALLS, 10TH ST & PHILLIPS AVE

The Neil and Jenny

Downey Home

recipes 29

Strawberry Angel Food

Dessert Cake

a-list 30

man in the kitchen 34

Here’s to Mom!

vino 36

Wherefore Art Thou Vino?

knick knacks of life 38

Advice from Moms

Checklist for Planning

Whenyour name is Jenny and you find a house on Jenny Circle, it just seems like that should be your forever home.

That’s what Jenny Downey thought, anyway, until - after 24 years in Sioux Fallsshe and her husband Neil moved to Brandon.

“I guess it’s one of the hazards of being in

THE Neil AND Jenny Downey HOME

BY MARY MICHAELS | PHOTOS BY JULIE PRAIRIE PHOTOGRAPHY

real estate,” Jenny laughs. “You see so many houses, and then it just gets you thinking.”

A Brandon native, she says moving back in July 2021 was like “coming home.” In fact, she drives by her childhood home every day.

“It was all kind of unexpected with this house. It came on the market, and as soon as

I walked in and saw the backyard view of the river and the golf course, I called Neil to tell him he had to come see it.”

The backyard is perhaps a reason the house hadn’t sold previously, Jenny adds.

“It does have a steep drop down to the river, so maybe not the best for a family with small

kids. But, we were at a point in our lives where we didn’t have that worry.”

Jenny and Neil have four children, ages 25, 23,18 and 16.

When they bought the house, she says, it was move-in ready. The house had wood floors, oak woodwork, dark brick on the fireplace wall, along with other finishes like wallpaper in a warm tan color.

“It was beautiful,” she says, “but just darker finishes throughout. We had painted over similar woodwork in our Sioux Falls house, so that was on our minds here. And, we knew we would eventually take down the wallpaper.”

The remodeling work perhaps came a little sooner than they expected when the family had the opportunity to be part of HGTV’s Down Home Fab show hosted by Sioux Falls residents Chelsea and Cole DeBoer. The Downeys were able to share some of their dreams for the main floor with the designers — like a lighter color palette, keeping a focus

on views to the backyard and ensuring the space was functional for entertaining because, Jenny says, “we host everything here.”

“There were so many elements to this project that I wouldn’t have necessarily thought of,” Jenny explains.

For example, the original floor plan had the dining room just off the entryway. Now, that space is divided so that the Downeys have a handy little mudroom right inside the door. And, on the back side of the new wall is a walk-in pantry next to the kitchen.

“I love this so much,” Jenny says of the pantry. “Before, I had to keep extra canned goods and little appliances in the laundry room, which wasn’t convenient at all.”

Stepping through the entry, you find yourself in a cozy seating area that Jenny says reminds her of something like a hotel lobby in Italy.

“It just feels very Tuscan to me, I guess, with the natural wood, the light color on the fireplace wall, the gold chandelier and then the pop of

Bathroom Goals

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color with the blue sofa and throw pillows.”

The curved mirror on the mantel creates a unique focal point for the sitting room, with its divided wood panes as well as the reflections you see of the curved gold arms of the chandelier and the black metal spindles of the catwalk on the upper level.

This space had been the original living room before the previous owners added on to the house in 2004. That addition created a beautiful living room with its 14-foot ceiling and curved wall of windows overlooking the river and golf course. The Down Home Fab refresh completely changed the look of the room, going from navy walls and natural wood trim to a light cream on the walls and warm grey on the woodwork.

“We learned something during this remodel, and it kind of put us at ease about the decision to paint the woodwork,” explains Jenny. “If, for example, you have oak

woodwork and then oak trees outside, they kind of compete. Now, the light-colored window panes just act as perfect little frames for all the beauty outside.”

With the kitchen remodel, the Downeys were excited not only with the design aesthetic, but also with the functionality.

“I didn’t know for sure that I was an ‘open shelf person,’ but the mix of cabinets and just a few shelves looks great. With the addition of the walk-in pantry, we have plenty of storage now. I’m a plant person, so the shelves gave me a chance to add some nature here.”

The lower cabinets and island base were finished in the same grey as the painted woodwork. The upper cabinets and custom cover over the existing range hood are a light wood that complements the floor, which is the original floor — just updated with a little sanding and some wax. The ceiling beams were there before as well, and were just covered to match the cabinets.

Another surprise for Jenny was the farmhouse-style sink.

“When you hear ‘farmhouse sink,’ you think of just the big white sink, which isn’t really me. But they used this cool travertine stone with the natural roughness on the front of it. It’s just another nature element that I love.”

The backsplash was finished with white tiles in a vertical Chevron pattern — a design element carried through in other places like the inlaid design of the butcher block on the mudroom shelf and pantry counter, the pattern in the grey and cream carpet runner up the stairs to the second level, and even in fun blue “stripes” painted on the pantry wall.

“Those blue stripes were just for me,” Jenny says with a laugh. “I love blue, so throughout the process, I was being encouraged to open my mind to other colors.”

She did get some blues in the design,

though, like the subtle coloring of the granite on the island — which was also used for the living room hearth — as well as through furniture and even a blue front door.

Throughout the process, Jenny says, their biggest hope was that they could reflect more of their own family’s style but still honor the previous homeowners.

“I think we did that,” she adds with a smile. “We heard from the previous owners who wanted to see it, and I think they liked it. They were excited to see that we kept features special to them like the wood floors and the customforged metal curtain rod in the dining room.”

While the Downeys left the windows uncovered, they used chains hanging from the rod to get plants up and away from their cat and into the sunshine.

Inspired by their experience with Down Home Fab, Jenny says she and her son-inlaw have started work on removing popcorn ceilings, texturing and painting other rooms.

“He even added a Chevron pattern on the wall in the office to tie in with the rest of the house,” she says. “Oh, and also added a nice coat of navy blue paint just for me.”

Family is important to the Downeys, as you

can see by the collections of family portraits hanging on the walls from when their kids were younger. Now, they only have one child left at home, and they’re expecting their first grandchild this summer.

“We had an unexpected detour in our journey by moving here,” Jenny says. “But now, we look at this house and think this could be our forever home. And, we’re looking forward to all of the memories we’re going to make here.”

Strawberry Angel Food Dessert Cake

BY JO MCCLURE

1 box angel food cake mix

12 ounce carton frozen whipped topping, thawed

6 ounce carton strawberry yogurt

1/3 cup powdered sugar

1 cup fresh strawberries

Bake the cake in a round angel food pan according to package directions and cool completely. In a large bowl, combine the whipped topping, yogurt and powdered sugar and stir until blended. Slice the cooled cake in thirds horizontally. Place the first layer on a cake stand and spread one cup of the topping mixture and then repeat with the second layer. Place the third layer on top and spread with topping on top and sides. Garnish with sliced strawberries. Chill for 2-3 hours and store in refrigerator.

Summer Entertaining

Houndstooth House has everything you need for entertaining this summer!

Charcuterie and cutting boards, wine, recipe books, board accessories, and our new line of jams and sauces. Stop by for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduations, and all your patio parties. Houndstooth House, 101 W 37th. St., (605) 271-2278.

MTV Unplugged

Mallrats Presents MTV

Unplugged. Friday, June 23, 2023. 7:30pm, Palace Theatre, Luverne, MN. $25 tickets — on sale May 22. www. palacetheatre.us

FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2023

A Gift Mom is Sure to Love

7:30 PM

Stackable Mother’s Day rings available in all the birth months for Mom! Available in 14k white, yellow or rose gold. Faini Designs Jewelry Studio. 69th Street & Western Avenue. (605) 339-6956.

palace theatre

$25 TICKETS on sale may 22

cash bar available

CARS - MUSIC - CONCESSIONS

2023

Saturday, May 20 2pm-4pm

Contain the Mess Spring weather have you needing to contain the mud? Let us help design lockers for your entry. Dakota Kitchen and Bath, 4101 N. Hainje Ave., Sioux Falls.

Papik Motors Spring Car Rally

Saturday, May 20, 2pm - 4pm. Stop by for an afternoon of fun and camaraderie with fellow car enthusiasts. Enjoy a wide variety of classics, collectibles, race cars and more! Cars, music, concessions. Papik Motors, Luverne, MN.

Happy Hour!

Join us to make your hours happier! Sunday - Saturday 3pm - 6pm. Late Night Happy Hour: Saturday & Sunday 10pm - midnight. McNally’s Irish Pub. 69th Street & Western Avenue. (605) 271-7170. mcnallysip.com

Best Bridal Experience

Ellie Stone Bride is located at 69th & Western and will bring you the best bridal experience in the Sioux Falls area. When you purchase here, you are not just a customer — you become part of the family. Photo courtesy of Solis Photography. Ellie Stone Bride. 69th & Western. (605) 332-8841.

We’re Over Cold Weather!

We’re over the cold weather, how ‘bout you? Let’s go to the lake! Featherweight and perfect for boating and beach days. Other styles available including a lightweight V-neck Tee in a sealike aqua. Get yours at Country ‘n More. 69th Street & Western Avenue. (605) 361-9797.

Now Hiring!

Charlie’s Pizza is now hiring for all positions for summer. 14 years old and up can apply. Contact info@charliespizzahouse.com for more information.

Rainy Days

Make rainy days fun for your little ones with an adorable umbrella from Kidtopia. Lots of patterns and designs for both boys and girls. Kidtopia. 901 S. Highline Pl., Dawley Farms. (605) 275-4825.

Spring Fashions

Get the inside scoop on the latest spring fashion trends. Find styling tips and tricks to help get you through the season looking your best. Mainstream Boutique has everything you need. Mainstream Boutique. Dawley Farm Village. 716 S Highline Pl. (605) 334-3817.

Colors of Spring

These colorful spring planters are an easy way to transform your indoor space with vibrant color. Choose from a large selection of colors, sizes and patterns — and the most beautiful plants to fill them — at Cliff Avenue Greenhouse. 2101 E. 26th St., (605) 332-6641 and 7310 W. 41st St, (605) 362-9727.

Spring Décor

Shop Junk in the Trunk for beautiful spring décor or gifts for everyone on your Mother’s Day gift list. Gift cards are also available. Junk in the Trunk. 1918 W. 41st St. (605) 338-5510.

You are One Smart Cookie!

If you are planning for an upcoming graduation, let Mary’s Mountain Cookies help cater your celebration! We have many cookie flavors to choose from. Looking for a unique gift for your grad? We also have gift cards available! Call us for more details on catering your graduation event at 605-275-0060. 701 N. Phillips Avenue.

Get it Right Here

Cocktails or wine, seltzer or beer...whatever mom likes, you can get it right here! Blue Mound Liquor has all her favorites — and just might have your favorites too. Blue Mound Liquor. 319 W. Main St., Luverne, MN. (507) 449-5052.

A Little More

Add a little more to your decor. Not the same things everyone has — from a big box store. Something unique, something out-of-the-ordinary. Something that speaks to you. Shop at the Nauti Nice booth at I-29 Antiques and you are sure to find just that special item. I-29 south to Tea exit 73. Open 7 days a week. (605) 368-5810.

Visit Us This Summer!

Dancer Things!

It’s just one of those DANCER THINGS! Our popular homage to one of the best sci-fi shows ever is now available at The Dance Line. 2115 S. Minnesota Avenue. (605) 335-8242.

Two Wheels!

Explore the natural beauty of Luverne on two wheels! Loop through the beautiful parks, iconic destinations and hidden gems on the newlycompleted 7.5 mile trail. Trailhead located at 601 E. Main St. Luverne.

Love the Burger Battle!

April 24 - May 27, enjoy the featured burgers from restaurants in Luverne, MN. INFO luvernechamber@co.rock.mn.us

Wherever Your Imagination Can Roam

We can take your project to where ever your imagination can roam! If there is a specific color you want your project to display and you can’t find it in our extensive color palette, we can match almost any color you can provide us with. And add in one of our variety of finishing techniques to make it even more special. Visit our showroom today and ask one of our friendly designers about using a custom color in your next project from StarMark Cabinetry. Today’s StarMark Custom Cabinetry 600 E. 48th Street N. (605) 977-3660.

Rock Collectors Must Visit!

Find the most unique stones in the area at Those Blasted Things. You won’t believe the things you will find! Those Blasted Things. 924 S. Kniss Ave., Luverne, MN. (507) 283-4027.

Join us at Wilde Prairie Winery this summer for fun in the country — with wine! Wine, live music, food trucks, tastings, yoga and so much more! 48052 259th St., Brandon, SD. (605) 582-6471. Please visit our website for a complete list of events: wildeprairiewinery.com

Class of 2024!

It’s YOUR turn! It’s time to schedule your Ultimate Senior Portrait Session. We only photograph 50 fabulous seniors each year and we want you to be one of them. Each Senior Portrait Session includes a free family portrait session fee and a free cap and gown session. We believe every senior is unique and we look forward to showing the world just how incredible you are. 605.359.6640 or jp@julieprairie.com

69th Street & Western Avenue

Photography by Anna Behning. Florals by Island Floral. Venue is The Atrium at Blue Haven.

Here’s to Mom!

BY JIM MATHIS

OK, so once in a while, I veer away from food and into the beverage category, and with Mother’s Day coming soon, I got to thinking about Mom, and that made me think of her beverage of choice: The Noble Gin & Tonic. I think I’m genetically inclined to enjoy a G&T; As mentioned, mom is fan; my dad was a fan and even my uber-conservative brother enjoys a gin and tonic every now and then. My sister leans towards the Moscow Mule; what can I say, she’s always been a little different. Yes,

my beloved and I named our dog Tonic. Jim and Tonic, get it?

So what makes a gin and tonic special? First, it’s cool and refreshing, perfect for a summer afternoon. Second, it’s easy to make; a jigger of gin over ice, fill with tonic and garnish with lime. Simple. But most importantly, it’s medicinal. Yep, the classic G&T was created to protect against malaria. In the late 1700s the army of the British East India Company discovered that quinine (that’s the stuff that makes tonic

water tonic water) could be used to treat malaria and helped protect against the disease. Around 1825, a few really smart officers discovered that the bitter tasting medicine was a whole lot more palatable when it was mixed soda water, sugar and gin. The Brits truly are brilliant. Suddenly “time to take your medicine” became “Happy Hour!”

So what the heck is quinine? It comes from the bark of Peruvian Cinchona trees. Lucky for us, you don’t need one growing in your backyard, because there are several really good tonics on the market now. Look for brands like Q Tonic, Fentiman’s and my personal favorite Fever Tree. These are all made using real quinine and natural sweeteners and make a really good cocktail. I tend to avoid the Schweppes, Canada Dry and stores brands. Yes, I know they’re the tonics I’ve been drinking for most of my life, but they are overly sweet. These newer brands are remarkably better. Since you’re going to buy a decent bottle of gin, you should also buy a decent tonic.

So how do you know if you got a good tonic? Take it outside and pour it in a tall clear highball glass on a sunny day. See that slight bluish glow in the glass? That’s the quinine in the tonic water. Quinine is naturally fluorescent in UV light. The more quinine, the more it will fluoresce. The good stuff looks pretty cool, the cheap stuff looks like bubbly water.

About that gin; yes, I’m a purest and I like my tonic with gin. Many people like vodka, bourbon or even tequila with their tonic, and that’s OK. I even have a friend known for ordering Jack and tonic (as in Jack Daniels). But in my opinion, vodka lacks the flavor to stand up to tonic; bourbon does better with sour, and tequila, well, save that for the margaritas. I know some will tell me they don’t like gin because “it tastes like I’m drinking a Christmas tree,” and yes, some gin can overpower with the smell and taste of juniper. But if that’s what you think of gin, you need to try some of the newer spirits on the market.

Hendrick’s Gin has become quite popular over the last few years and it doesn’t have the pine tree smell. It’s got a much gentler flavor, infused with rose and cucumber. I often garnish a Hendrick’s and tonic with a slice of cucumber, which brings out its vegetal quality. Bombay Sapphire is another one of my go-to gins; it has a clean, classic taste with just a little juniper and a nice blend of herbs. My dear mother prefers Beefeater, a classic London Dry Gin, a solid choice for a G&T. Lately, I’ve been enjoying The Botanist, and as the name would imply it’s very fruity and floral. I also enjoy Aviation gin, Ryan Reynold’s brand.

Does the quinine really help with malaria? Well, scientists and doctors say you’d have to drink a whole lot of modern tonic water to get even the minimum therapeutic effects, but in all the years my family has been drinking Gin and Tonic, not one of us has contracted malaria. How do you get malaria? Mosquitoes, and what else do they cause?

West Nile. Will quinine protect against the West Nile virus? It didn’t for me, but maybe I just didn’t have enough! As I write this, I’m sitting on the patio with a gin and tonic by my side and my faithful dog Tonic at my feet. It’s gonna be a good summer, here’s to it!

Do yourself a favor, drink something good today.

When he’s not enjoying a cold refreshing beverage on the patio, Jim runs ADwërks, an advertising agency in Sioux Falls.

Wherefore Art Thou Vino?

BY RICCARDO TARABELSI

THIS ARTICLE IS DEDICATED TO MY NONNA, ANNA BENEDETTI 1913 – 2008

If you paid attention to your 9th grade English teacher (thank you Mrs. Levis!) you will undoubtedly know that the word “wherefore” does not mean “where,” it means “why.” And that’s the question that drives us, or at least me, an enophile, wherefore art thou vino? Why are you wine? In other words, what makes wine so special, and why does it intrigue me so? As I ponder these questions

during this Mother’s Day month, my thoughts drift to how special my Italian grandmother was and how women are influencing the world of Italian wine.

To answer my plethora of questions, I must go back to the original question, “Wherefore art thou vino?” which is in reference to one of my favorite plays, Romeo and Juliet. This tragic story takes place in Verona, and I was

fortunate enough as a teenager to do a lot of traveling with my family, who has relatives in virtually every country throughout Europe and the Middle East. My memories of visits to Verona will always remind me of three things: Juliet’s balcony, the grapes of Valpolicella, and my maternal grandmother, Nonna Anna.

My grandmother, or Nonna in Italian, was a feisty little Italian woman who was

born in Verona, a quaint town that has now grown into the second most popular tourist attraction in the region of Veneto; the first being the famous “underwater” city of Venice. My Nonna, who lived to be 94-years-old, led quite the interesting life: Imagine being born in Italy during World War I, growing up in Europe during the Great Depression, marrying a circus acrobat named Spartacus (no lie,) raising three children on your own during World War II, making a living as a seamstress in Florence, and then moving away from everything you’ve ever known to live in the United States with your daughter, sonin-law, and adorable grandson (that’s me!) Anyway, the point is that she went through a lot and had to give up everything time and time again to pursue her passions. Passion is what drives us.

In my passion to discover exactly what it is that makes wine so special, I realize that I am still in awe whenever I look at an Italian wine label. Italy is known for simplicity and elegance, but have you ever tried reading an Italian wine bottle label? You probably feel like you need Duolingo just to interpret some of the words. Who is the producer? What is the grape? Where is it from? The purpose of a label is to guide you to a wine that you might like. But if the label is not clear, concise, and specific, then how are you supposed to know if you have chosen the right wine? Why do Italians insist on making their wine labels so hard to understand?

I can still remember when I was fifteen and asking my Nonna for her “secret” Lasagna Alla Veronese recipe. Her response was, “I’ll tell you only when you are able to understand.” And so, it wasn’t until my twenty-first birthday that she told me the secret to her amazing lasagna was the Beciamella sauce. She said to me, “Write this down: latte, farina, e sale.” That’s it? I waited six years for “Milk, Flour, and Salt!”

Looking back on the simplicity of that recipe and my grandmother’s perception of its complexity, I realize now that she was only protecting the recipe’s integrity. Much like my

grandmother’s harboring of the lasagna recipe, Italian winemakers guard their precious vines with their very own lives. Take, for example, the unbelievable scrutiny and care that the wine producer, Marta Galli of Le Ragose vineyards in Valpolicella takes. Working with her children, Paolo, Marco, and Marina, Marta owns vineyards that are located at the highest point in the Valpolicella zone (1,148 ft.) which was founded in 1969. Slightly north of Verona, this picturesque countryside is ideal for growing Valpolicella’s indigenous grapes, Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara, which are used to create one of the most well known wines of this region: Amarone.

The harvesting and care of the vineyards must be done by hand, as it is impossible to get a tractor to operate on the incline. Harvesting of the grapes takes place in late October, and for the Amarone, only the recie, or ears, of the grapes are picked because these are the grapes that have had the highest exposure to the sun and are therefore riper, containing a higher concentration of natural sugars. These grapes are then placed in wooden boxes and are left to dry outside until late February. Can you imagine the first time someone dumped a bunch of grapes into a crate and left them outside for three months? I’m sure everybody thought that the winemaker was crazy, but I guess they thought the same thing about people like Edison, Einstein, and Freud. Well, maybe Freud was crazy.

The point is that this wine-making process is genius. The dried grapes, or raisined grapes undergo fermentation in temperaturecontrolled, stainless steel tanks and are aged for 1 year in stainless, then 4 - 5 years in Slovenian oak casks. The average production of this wine is 600-700 cases per vintage. Because the wine is made by using the dried grapes, and because the sugar content is high in these grapes, the wine produced is a powerfully jammy wine with a high alcohol percentage (14 – 16%) and dense, ripe fruit on the nose. The Amarone has a lingering finish with dry and tannic qualities, allowing this wine to be aged for a long time. This is, by far, one of the best wines that I have enjoyed on a

number of occasions, one of which was when the representative for Le Ragose vineyards was in town years ago and did a tasting of his wines. After everyone had left the event, the representative “insisted” that I stay and share a bottle of 1997 Le Ragose Amarone with him. After getting my arm twisted, I agreed to stay and enjoyed a nice conversation about Marta Galli and the respect she has gained as a woman in a male-dominated Italian wine industry. Even Marta herself has been quoted as saying, “In wine making, it is not your sex that counts, it is your soul.”

This year, for Mother’s Day, get her a beautiful bottle of Valpolicella wine that’s nice and light with lots of fruit. If she’s a bold woman (have you met my wife?), then choose to upgrade to a Valpolicella Ripasso (a Valpolicella wine that has undergone a second fermentation) or an Amarone. If you really want to impress your enophilic Mother, then I suggest getting her a set of crystal Riedel glasses. A glass is not just a glass, but an instrument to increase pleasure and enjoyment of your wine.

As I conclude this article, I look back to see that my pursuit of answering the question “why” has led me down an interesting road filled with women I respect, and I honor them here, in my writing. Juliet, my Nonna, and Marta Galli, all linked by the city of Verona, are all strong women who share similar passions for life. And therein lies the answer to my questions, why is wine so special and why does it intrigue me so? The answer was in the questioning: the things that we are most passionate about are the things we keep pursuing with all of our heart. My Nonna wouldn’t want me to do it any other way.

Riccardo and Marybeth Tarabelsi are the owners of R Wine Bar & Kitchen, Brix Wine Bar, Maribella Ristorante, and Vespa Catering, all in Downtown Sioux Falls. Riccardo will be celebrating Mother’s Day with his wife, Marybeth, and their three sons, Dante, Berent (fiancée Molli,) and Jaxon. Contact Riccardo at riccardo@rwinebar.com.

Moms

Aperk to being a journalist is getting to ask people who I may not know questions about their life. And in most cases, they are more than willing to answer.

One of my favorite stories to work on each year is a profile story featuring farm and ranch moms. I love hearing how other moms do things and learning from the advice they share when I ask them, “what advice would you share with a new mom?”

Let me share a few of my favorite responses.

“You aren’t perfect, neither are your kids, and that’s OK.”

Gleaning advice from others is something I truly value. And this may be the reason I freely share advice…although the older I get, the more I realize, most folks don’t appreciate being on the receiving end. The reason it took me so long to figure this out is because most

people are genuinely kind, and I don’t tend to mingle with grumps too often. The exception would be our daughter, Parker. She is not a grump, but she has no problem letting me know that she does not need nor want my advice. It doesn’t mean she doesn’t want my help — just not unsolicited advice.

Recently she said, “Mom can you please just be here in case I need you, but don’t say anything?” Because of the circumstances, it was a difficult request to respect, but I did my best.

“Play with your kids. The dishes and laundry will still be there when your children are grown and have left the house.”

Now that she is 12, I have to remind myself that what she needs most from me right now is my respect for her ability to take care of herself (within reason) and my willingness to drop what I’m doing to engage

whenever she is ready to engage.

Because focus is among my strengths, pulling myself away from a task and engaging in a new task is a tall order for me.

But when I do take time away from whatever to engage, I am always happy I did.

“If there’s work to be done, do it together.”

Easter 2023 was unique for us because we did not get together with family or friends as we typically do. Some family members had been sick and just weren’t up to getting together. So, after church, Parker and I spent a few hours preparing her favorite meal – lasagna, caprese salad and a lemon dessert.

She let me be cheesy and turn on an “Italian Restaurant” music station while we worked. We had so much more fun than if I’d done

the meal prep myself. And Shon said it was the best lasagna he’s eaten! I’m going to try and incorporate this same logic and ask her to help me plant and care for our vegetable garden this summer.

“Treasure these moments, because before you know it, your children will be grown.”

It may be a bit cliché, but it is true. There are so many times I want to hit “pause.” But every stage is unique and wonderful in its own way. And ultimately it is our job as moms to raise children who become adults who can function independent of us. Kind of weird when I think about it.

“My job as a mom is to do a good enough job that I no longer have a job?”

And then I am reminded of another bit of wise mom advice: “Once a mom, always a mom.”

Checklist for Planning Your Healthy Pregnancy

BY JARETT C. BIES, AVERA HEALTH

Ifyou’re trying to conceive (TTC), there are things you can do – right now – to help ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. It’s a good idea to start with a visit to your primary care provider, especially if you have not yet scheduled your yearly checkup. “Talk to your provider of your plans,” said family medicine/OB physician Alisa Reindl, MD, Avera Medical Group McGreevy 7th Avenue. “There are things we can get taken care of in advance that will provide benefits when you actually do get pregnant.”

At your appointment, ask about these things specifically:

• Your immunization history. If you need to get caught up on any vaccinations, now’s the time. Expecting moms should consider influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations. “Moms also need to make sure they are immunized against rubella, chicken pox and pertussis, also known as whooping cough, which can cause serious illness for an infant,” Reindl said.

• Your blood pressure and blood sugar numbers. Are there steps you need to take to get your blood pressure under control? Could you be at risk for diabetes?

• How your prescription, over-the-counter medications and supplements could affect your pregnancy. “Make sure you tell your provider absolutely everything you’re taking, even if it’s over the counter or an herbal supplement, whether it’s legal or even illegal,” Reindl said. Ask what you can safely take for common illnesses like

heartburn, coughs or nasal congestion.

• Recommended screenings. Make sure you’re up to date on screenings recommended for your gender and age, for example, a Pap test.

• Vitamin supplements. It’s good to start taking prenatal vitamins, even before you’re pregnant. “The supplement you choose should have 400 micrograms of folic acid and iron as well as Omega 3 and DHA. DHA is a vital nutrient for developing fetal eyes and brains,” Reindl said. Folic acid is the most common nutrient deficiency in women who are child-bearing age. It can cause brain and spine defects in babies.

• Any behavioral health concerns you have. Do you experience depression or anxiety? Addiction? What treatment might you benefit from, before you add the responsibilities of parenting to your life? Your provider can refer you to helpful resources.

You can take steps on your own as well to help lead toward a healthier pregnancy:

• Take a close look at your eating habits. Be sure your diet includes lean protein, plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products (or good substitutes to ensure you’re getting important nutrients, like calcium). Limit sugary treats, like soft drinks and baked goodies like cake and cookies.

• Aim to have a body mass index (BMI) in the normal range of 18-25 prior to

pregnancy. “A normal BMI can decrease complication chances,” Reindl said. “Think about your weight before you consider having a baby.”

• Drink plenty of water – six to eight 8-ounce glasses each day.

• Start exercising if you aren’t already. A good guideline is 150 minutes of activity per week. That can be as simple as 30-minute walk five days a week.

• If you smoke or vape, stop. “Cessation programs are shown to be effective ways to stop smoking,” Reindl added. “Tobacco use during pregnancy can contribute to many problems, including miscarriage and birth defects.”

• Stop drinking alcohol, even if it’s just a glass of wine after supper. “Any alcohol use during pregnancy can harm the baby. The safest amount of alcohol is none at all,” Reindl said.

• Limit caffeine. “Caffeine is among the most common drugs we use. Yet it depletes calcium and can cut vitamin B levels,” Reindl said. Caffeine is present in coffee, tea and soft drinks. Look for decaffeinated alternatives. Or better yet: just drink water.

• Get plenty of rest and adequate sleep.

Finally, don’t worry. “Relax and enjoy this time of your life, knowing that you are making good decisions to benefit your health and your future baby,” Reindl said.

Go to the Maybe a Baby hub at Avera.org/ MaybeABaby for more resources.

“There are things we can get taken care of in advance that will provide benefits when you actually do get pregnant.”

friends & family

Chores Done While Having Fun

Make Mom’s Day In A Helpful Way

BY JESS WEISCHEDEL

Everymom appreciates having a tidy home, especially when it’s done with everyone on board and having fun — including the kids! What better idea for a unique Mother’s Day gift than a chore chart system that turns cleaning into a fun time spent together?

The thought of starting a new routine of daily tasks and household chores can certainly be daunting, but there are some creative ways to make it something to look forward to.

By encouraging those involved to give their input during the creation process, it can be an enjoyable experience, especially for kids.

Here are a few ideas to use as a guide to get started!

HERE ARE SOME POPULAR TYPES OF CHORE CHARTS:

• Color-coded: assign a color to each person and show their chores for each day using stickers or markers on the chart.

• Interactive: create several chore cards usingVelcro or magnets to attach and move around the chart as each task is done.

• Scratch-off: reveal a prize for each completed chore using scratchoff stickers.

• Wheel: create a spinning wheel that adds an element of surprise to which chore will be next to do, making it feel more like a game

• Jar: write each task on a small piece of paper and place them all into a jar. Each day or week the kids can draw a chore from the jar, which makes it feel more spontaneous and fun.

Asking the kids to think about what needs to be done in each area of the house is a great way to get them motivated.

HERE ARE SOME IDEAS FOR KID-FRIENDLY CHORES TO ADD TO YOUR TASK LIST:

• Make your bed.

• Put your dirty clothes in the hamper.

• Fold the towels.

• Help with gardening tasks.

• Help with meal prep.

• Feed the dog.

• Wipe the mirrors.

• Put away your toys and books.

• Empty small trash cans.

• Help prepare school items.

• Dust the baseboards.

Once the kids have helped you develop a chore chart plan and list of tasks to include, it’s time to ignite a desire in them to want to participate in the new routine and develop habits of doing their chores on a regular basis.

THERE ARE MANY CREATIVE WAYS TO MAKE CLEANING MORE FUN FOR KIDS.

• Cosplay: use role play by acting out different scenarios and letting them wear costumes! Pretend the kitchen is a restaurant as the kids dress up with aprons, chef hats, and oven mitts and clean up for future customers or help to prepare a gourmet meal.

• Tell them to put on their capes and masks and use their super powers to battle the messes as the super hero cleaners. Break out the princess dresses and crowns and feel fancy as you help prepare the palace for some very important guests, while the fairy godmother adds sparkle to every surface she touches.

• Be an astronaut in outer space, on a mission to tidy up his spaceship, or be a futuristic robot or alien housekeeper who can only speak an intergalactic language.

• Imagine yourselves as pirates on the hunt for treasure around the house as they search for hidden gems as they clean.

• Relay challenge: one person could be assigned the task of cleaning a mirror, and once that is done, they need to tag the next person, who has to put away their toys away before they tag the next person to empty the trash.

•Working together as a team to accomplish a mutual goal will make your kids feel important and proud.

• Cleaning Olympics: set up an obstacle course around your home with different chores to complete in each spot

• Obstacles could be tossing items into a basket or bin, sorting a pile of toys, organizing a bookshelf, dusting surfaces, reuniting separated pairs of socks, and any other challenge you add to each level of the game (or to each room).

• Chore supply kits: gather a set of cleaning tools that are age appropriate, safe, and fun for your child to use. Take them shopping with you, and let them help with picking out each item.

• A fun spray bottle, a cool apron, and brightly colored gloves could be great additions to their kit.

• Choose a duster and a few microfiber cloths in their favorite color.

• Consider a small broom and dustpan, a mini vacuum, and a sponge in a silly shape.

Don’t forget to find a container for the kit, such as a small toolbox, a rolling bin, or a basket that is easy to carry around. Take time to explain each tool to your child and show them how to use them effectively, while giving them reassurance that they are theirs to have and use for their very own cleaning jobs.

The final step to consider while developing a chore routine is incentive. A reward system will make your child feel appreciated and give them a sense of achievement after reaching the goals. Younger children will enjoy seeing their progress on a sticker chart, earning a sticker for each chore

they complete and getting a prize when it they’ve finished.

Tokens or tickets can be used to “purchase” a prize once enough of them are earned from completed tasks, and teaches kids about saving and exchanging currency. Reward systems that are time based will assign chores based on the amount of time they take to complete, providing valuable life lessons in time management

Encourage the kids to help with a list of prizes they could potentially receive once they complete all of their chores on the chart.

HERE ARE SOME IDEAS FOR INCENTIVIZING THEIR HARD WORK:

Special Outings:

A trip to the zoo, a play date with friends, a movie and popcorn at the theatre, an escape room challenge, or a visit to the ice cream shop are some ways to make their prize an experience.

Games and Activities:

A new board game, craft kit, backyard scavenger hunt, or pool and water toys will also create ways to spend some quality time together while having a blast.

Allowance:

Earning a small allowance for finished chores will make their hearts and their piggy banks feel full, all while teaching them about money management.

Screen Time:

Let them choose a favorite device to redeem some well-deserved screen time.

Toys:

Offer a collection of small toys and trinkets to choose from when a chore is done, or a bigger item they’ve been wanting and can win after a certain number of tasks are completed.

Stickers and Other Collectibles:

Encourage your child to start a collection of stickers, pins, marbles, cards, or other items that can be displayed and gathered over time as a curated collection to be proud of. Depending on what your kid shows interest in, you could have on hand a variety of unique stickers, erasers, charms, coins, key chains, magnets, Pez dispensers, trading cards, stamps, post cards, shells, stones, buttons, dice, etc. to let them choose from.

To give them a better understanding of how collecting something works, show them ways to store and arrange the items together, which could become a really cool display in their bedroom!

Whether you are searching for that perfect way to show appreciation to a special mother in your life, or you are a mom looking for useful gift ideas to suggest to the family, a consistently clean home is a gift that keeps on giving well beyond the special day we celebrate our moms each year.

c u t e k d s i

Lainey :: 3 YEARS

Layla & Bennett :: 5 YEARS & 1 WEEK

Maren & Sloane :: 2 YEARS & 3 MONTHS

Fletcher, best friend of the Hargreaves family

Oskie, best friend of the Gonnelly family

Murphy, best friend of Natalie Jungemann

Paul & Ringo, best friends of Amy Thelen

Soloman, best friend of Austin

Roscoe P., best

of the Hargreaves family

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Photo by Darren Thomas