February 2025
Volume 24 • Issue 3
Symphony Bars
Adorable Valentine’s Crafts for Kids
Photo: Karis Anderson by Matt Crockett
Photos by Julieta Cervantes
baking love sweeter
From Valentine’s Day gifts to office gathering treats, we bake scrumptious cookies that are sure to make every day sweeter!
Our bakery case is filled with over 20 flavors of cookies baked f every day including seasonal flavors! We make our cookies by han using quality ingredients and lots of love! Whether you need t satisfy your own sweet cravings or need catering for an event, we bake it easy for you! We also serve gluten-friendly cookies, brownies, ice cream treats and decorated celebration cookies!
Call 605-275-0060 or Order Online!
FEB RU ARY 2025
Falls’ Favorite Women’s Magazine
calendar 8
February 2025
concierge 14
The Sensory Studio: A Place for Play and Learning
history 16
The Western Town Company and the Dubuque House
out & about
February 2025
Take My Breath AwayMurder Mystery at the Pettigrew Home & Museum
Saturday, February 1 6, 6:30, 7, 7:30, and 8 p.m.
Pettigrew Home & Museum 131 N. Duluth Avenue
Please join us at the Pettigrew Home & Museum for an entertaining, interactive murder mystery where you solve the crime. There will be four nights of public performances, with five show times each. Tickets will be $15 per person can
be purchased in advance at the Old Courthouse Museum. Call (605) 367-4210. siouxlandmuseums.com
South Dakota Symphony
Orchestra Winter Chamber
Music Concert
Sunday, February 2
Washington Pavilion
Enjoy a Sunday Serenade with the Dakota String Quartet and Dakota Wind Quintet, showcasing masterpieces of chamber music.
Sioux Falls Skyforce vs. Santa Cruz Warriors
Tuesday, February 4 6:30 p.m.
Sanford Pentagon
The Sioux Falls Skyforce is a member of the NBA G League and an affiliate of the Miami HEAT. Catch the team in action at the Sanford Pentagon as they compete against some of the top up-and-coming professional basketball players in the country.
Arn Kind Presents: The French Voyageur in North America’s Fur Trade at the Old Courthouse Museum
Wednesday, February 5
6:30 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum 200 West 6th Street
The French Voyageurs were among the first Europeans to explore and make maps of this region. Meet an authentically attired French Voyageur as he teaches us about South Dakota’s and
Minnesota’s first business; the Fur Trade. Through his colorful portrayal of a voyageur, Mr. Kind will have the audience involved in interactive living history of voyageurs and/or Dakota or Ojibwa Indians. Admission is free! (605) 367-4210 orsiouxlandmuseums.com.
The Goodnight Theatre
Collective: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Thursday, Feb. 6 • 7:30 p.m.
Friday, Feb. 7 • 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 8 • 7:30 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
This February, we’ll be bringing you a hilarious rendition of the Tony-winning musical comedy following the grade-school pride of a fictional county taking on the ultimate spelling test. Grab your dictionary and ask to
hear it in a sentence — it’s the outrageously funny The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee!
Dakota Wind Quintet at the Old Courthouse Museum
Winter Concert Series
Friday, February 7
Noon to 1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
Dakota Wind Quintet will perform in the historic courtroom of the Old Courthouse Museum from
noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show!
Free admission (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
Bloody Mary Fest
Saturday, February 8 10 a.m.
Washington Pavilion
Join us for a fun morning or afternoon of UNLIMITED bloody marys, craft beer and other samples! This year, we’re excited to feature double the space to provide more vendors and extra room for sampling. But hurry, tickets go quickly! Buy yours before they sell out!
Dinner Detective Murder
Mystery Dinner Show
Saturday, Feb. 8 • 6 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 22 • 6 p.m.
Sheraton Sioux Falls Hotel
The Dinner Detective is
an interactive true crime mystery show set in the present day and based on real cold cases. Feast on a fantastic dinner, but just beware... the killer is hiding somewhere in the room,
Junkin’ Market Days® Spring Market
Victorian Valentine Tea Party at the Pettigrew Home & Museum Wednesday, February 12 2:00 p.m.
$5 Admission Friday 4-7 PM Saturday 9-4 PM
Scan the QR code to purchase tickets. Online discount code: BOGO
Pettigrew Home & Museum 131 N. Duluth Avenue
Saturday 9:00-4:00 PM Boutique Clothing ~Home Decor ~Jewelry ~ ~Gourmet Foods ~ Vintage ~ One-Of-A-Kind Finds junkinmarketdays www.junkinmarketdays.com $5 Admission
Boutique Clothing ~ Home Decor ~ Jewelry ~ Gourmet Foods ~ Vintage ~ One-Of-A-Kind Finds April 11-12, 2025 Buy one ticket get one free!
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, donations welcome. INFO siouxlandmuseums.com
The Premiere Playhouse Presents the Premiere Premiers
W. H. Lyon Fairgrounds Expo Building 100 N. Lyon Blvd, Sioux Falls April 11-12, 2025 Friday 4:00-7:00 PM Scan for tickets: Scan for tickets:
Saturday, February 8
W. H. Lyon Fairgrounds Expo Building 100 N Lyon Blvd, Sioux Falls www.junkinmarketdays.com
Thurs-Sat, Feb. 13-15 • 7 p.m. Sunday, February 16 • 2 p.m. Orpheum Theater Featuring two one-act plays written by local playwrights and selected by a panel of adjudicators during a oneday stage reading festival. The Premiere Premieres is one-of-a-kind production with
Charles Wesley Godwin with special guest Joe Stamm at The Alliance in Sioux Falls, SD on Thursday, February 13,
anniversary of his debut album, Killin’ Time, on tour in 2025. A true triple threat as a singer, guitarist and songwriter, Black has sold over 20 million records, recorded 22 #1 singles and earned numerous accolades, including a GRAMMY, CMA, ACM and American Music Awards.
Billy Lurken at the Old Courthouse Museum
Winter Concert Series
Friday, February 14
Noon to 1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
Billy Lurken will perform in the historic courtroom of the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Free admission (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Lincoln Stars
Saturday, February 15
6:30 p.m.
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.
Valentine’s Romance
Saturday, February 15
7:30 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
Escape with that special someone into a night filled with passion featuring Tchaikovksy’s searing
“Romeo & Juliet”, Massenet’s haunting “Meditation” from Thais, and a trio of works by influential women composers.
South Dakota Symphony Orchestra: Concert for Kids & Families
Sunday, February 16
2:30 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
A special addition to the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra season, the Concert for Kids & Families will delight audiences of all ages. Designed to ignite your imagination, this 60-minute concert is a great introduction to the orchestra. Featuring masterworks by Prokofiev, Saint-Saëns and Tchaikovsky, plus a solo turn by Young Musician Concerto Competition winner Kyan Carlson.
Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Fargo Force
Sunday, February 16
4:05 p.m.
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.
Starlab Inflatable
Planetarium at the Old Courthouse Museum
Monday, February 17
1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
Discover the night sky, explore the constellations!
Starlab is a program for adults and children over the age of 5. Not recommended for those not comfortable in the dark. Tickets only $2, program begins promptly on the hour with no late entry. Groups of 8 or more, please call ahead. INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
Rosemaling
Demonstration at the Old Courthouse Museum
Tuesday, February 18
1:00-4:00 p.m.
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 siouxlandmuseums.com
Sioux Falls Skyforce vs. Iowa Wolves
February 20
6:30 p.m.
Sanford Pentagon
The Sioux Falls Skyforce is a member of the NBA G
League and an affiliate of the Miami HEAT. Catch the team in action at the Sanford Pentagon as they compete against some of the top up-and-coming professional basketball players in the country.
Live & Local Presents:
Creating in Color and Improv Falls
Thursday, February 20
7:00 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
Join us for an energizing evening of cabaret-style musical theatre as Creating in Color debuts their first show as a new performance group with a blend of dancing, singing, spoken word and acting. This special performance will walk the audience through black history, starting after the Civil War through today, in celebration of Black History Month!
Kid’s Activity Day: Warm, Woolen, Mittens at the Old Courthouse Museum Thursday, February 20 9-11:30 a.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
Kids can learn about history and make your own crafts to take home. 15 minute sessions run throughout morning times. Call to reserve times. Free admission. INFO (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com
Dave & Vicki Wood at the Old Courthouse Museum
Winter Concert Series
Friday, February 21
Noon to 1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
Dave & Vicki Wood will
perform in the historic courtroom of the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Free admission (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Lincoln Stars
Friday, February 21 7:05 p.m.
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.
Tina —
The Tina Turner Musical Friday, February 21 • 7:30 p.m. Saturday, February 22 • 2 p.m. Saturday, February 22 • 7:30 p.m. Sunday, February 23 • 2 p.m. Washington Pavilion An uplifting comeback story like no other, TINA –The Tina Turner Musical is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen
of Rock n’ Roll. Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, this electrifying sensation will send you soaring to the rafters.
Get Hooked Ice Fishing Derby Saturday, February 22 1:00-4:00 p.m.
The Lake - 815 W. Edgehill, Luverne, MN
Adult and youth divisions. Over $6,000 in prizes! $25 adult entry fee, $15 youth. Day of event: $30 adults, $20 youth. First 200 youth receive free rod, reel and tackle! Registration: (507) 283-4061 or luvernechamber.com
Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Tri-City Storm
Saturday, February 22
6:05 p.m.
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.
Sioux Falls Skyforce vs. Texas Legends
Tuesday, February 25
6:30 p.m.
Sanford Pentagon
The Sioux Falls Skyforce s a member of the NBA G League and an affiliate of the Miami HEAT. Catch the team in action at the Sanford Pentagon as they compete against some of the top up-and-coming professional basketball players in the country.
Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Des Moines Buccaneers
Tuesday, February 25
7:05 p.m.
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.
The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System
Wednesday, February 26
6:00 p.m.
Washington Pavilion
Ceili Dance at the
Old Courthouse Museum
Thursday, February 27
6:30 p.m.
200 West Sixth Street
When the class gets lost on the way to the planetarium, Ms. Frizzle saves the day by blasting into outer space for an epic interplanetary field trip! But when rivalries both old and new threaten to tear the students apart, our young heroes must learn to pull together or risk getting forever lost in the solar system.
Old Courthouse Museum
Ceili (pronounced KAY-lee) is an Irish social dance. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, Ceili dancing is a fun and energetic way to spend an evening. Get ready to dance to live music at the Old Courthouse Museum!
Beginners welcome. Free admission.
INFO (605) 367-4210 orsiouxlandmuseums.com.
Sioux Falls Skyfore vs. Texas Legends
Thursday, February 27
6:30 p.m.
Sanford Pentagon
The Sioux Falls Skyforce is a member of the NBA G League and an affiliate of the Miami HEAT. Catch the team in action at the Sanford Pentagon as they compete against some of the top up-and-coming professional basketball players in the country.
James Dean Acoustic at the Old Courthouse Museum Winter Concert Series
Friday, Feb. 28 • Noon to 1 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 West Sixth Street
James Dean Acoustic will perform in the historic courtroom of the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy the show! Free admission (605) 367-4210 or siouxlandmuseums.com.
The Sensory Studio
A PLACE FOR PLAY AND LEARNING
BY MARY MICHAELS | PHOTOS BY JULIE PRAIRIE
The Sensory Studio 3000 E. Jackson Street, Sioux Falls 605-215-1332
info@thesensorystudiosd.com www.thesensorystudiosd.com
Everyone’s favorite neighbor, Fred Rogers (a.k.a. Mister Rogers), once said, “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play IS serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.”
For decades, experts in fields from pediatric medicine to psychology have done research that reinforces the belief that play is a critical part of a child’s development.
Recently, the Sandlot which was located in Harrisburg, rebranded under new ownership as The Sensory Studio and relocated to a new
facility in Sioux Falls, the studio also partnered with Functional Kids Pediatric Therapy, which introduced special sensory experiences and classes to the studio’s offerings.
There are still opportunities for sand play, as well as climbing, slides, swings, monkey bars and more; so kids can move all their muscles. The team crafts every activity with care, so that individuals of all ages and abilities can explore, learn and thrive through sensory experiences.
The Sensory Studio advocates for inclusive play and learning, so everyone has access to
experiences that ignite curiosity and cultivate potential. Whether a child needs a peaceful escape, support for developmental goals or just a chance to ignite their creativity, The Sensory Studio is there to guide their journey. The welcoming atmosphere isn’t just for kids. It’s a place for families to come together so they can connect, explore and create lasting memories. The calendar in the “Coming Up” section of their website is filled with a wide array of activities each week, from public play time to special programs and private rentals. Public Play Adventures are 90-minute
blocks of time when the studio is open to the public. Children and families can explore the sensory stations, interactive exhibits and play areas at their own pace. The cost is $12 per child ($6 for children ages 6-12 months), which includes admission for two adults. Additional adults can join the fun for just $6 per person.
You can also experience The Sensory Studio in a unique way with private play options for birthday parties, a field trip or other special occasion.
Working with Functional Kids Pediatric
Therapy, the studio also offers Adaptive Play Sessions, which combine the joy of play with the benefits of therapy for children with diverse needs. These include tailored sensory experiences, an inclusive and supportive environment, professional support and family engagement.
The Sensory Sprouts Preschool offers programs for children aged 18 months to five years, and its programming is inspired by Montessori principles that foster independence, curiosity and a love for learning. The Tiny Tots program, which meets weekly for one hour.
Additional information about registration and fees is available on the website.
For families who want to come back often to experience all that The Sensory Studio has to offer, both passes and memberships are available, such as the weekend pass, the Toddler Time pass, a monthly membership and a three-month membership.
Socks are required in the space, so guests should bring their own; however, if you forget, you can purchase a pair on-site for just $2.
Get ready for a memorable adventure at The Sensory Studio.
THE WESTERN
TOWN COMPANY AND THE DUBUQUE HOUSE
By Wayne Fanebust
In the spring of 1856, the national outlook was for massive immigration from the eastern towns and cities to what people were calling the Great West. A New York newspaper predicted that an astounding number of people would set their sights and fortunes on the frontier. It was a time like no other and a strange and impractical mood gave way to desire to lay out towns in the western domain. White men
concluded that it was destiny and that the Native Americans would be pushed aside.
One eastern Iowa City, namely Dubuque, became a launching point for land speculators; all aching for a chance to claim land and build a town or two. Dubuque newspapers were loaded with advertisements by land agents all hoping to cash in on the coming bonanza. While
Falls of the Big Sioux River
THE DUBUQUE HOUSE
The Dubuque House, Sioux Falls’ first hotel, was built about 350 yards due west of this spot by Wilmot W. Brookings and members of the Western Town Company of Dubuque, Iowa in September 1857. In the previous year, they had staked out a 320 acre claim and established the town of Sioux Falls, Minnesota Territory, on the west side of the Big Sioux River. The new town site was northwest of a large wooded island, originally called Brookings but later renamed Seney.
Although Dubuque House was built for visitors and prospective settlers, it may have also served as a meeting hall, freight station and post office. It appears in the field notes and on the first map of Sioux Falls made by a federal surveyor in August, 1859, the only building shown within the townsite.
The primitive hotel was built of rough undressed blocks of Sioux Quartzite, found in the stone out-croppings which surround the Falls of the Big Sioux River. No photographs or sketches of the hotel are known to exist, but it was probably a rough rectangular-shaped structure featuring a single open room with a loft above and a cellar below. Sleeping accommodations were crude, with cloth sack mattresses filled with prairie grasses on rough wooden cots or on the floor, with animal skins and blankets for covers.
Since the settlers had a steam-driven sawmill, we can assume that the roof was probably made of rough boards and light wooden poles covered with thatch and dirt, much like
political tensions were growing and America was inching closer to the Civil War, the anxious speculators were focused on the vast frontier and its seemingly-endless possibilities.
So with this in mind, a group of Dubuque businessmen, political figures and a journalist created the Western Town Company in October of 1856. Members of the company included the Harvard-educated Dr. George M. Staples, Austin Adams, who was destined to serve on the Iowa Supreme Court, and Dennis Mahoney, the fire-breathing editor of the Dubuque Express and Herald, a staunch, pro-slavery newspaper that would one day give Abraham Lincoln fits. The company was chartered
settlers’ cabins. Windows were small and covered with cloth or skins. Oil lamps provided any interior lighting. There probably was not an inn-keeper in residence; whether visitors paid for sleeping space is uncertain. But the existence of the Dubuque House enabled the town promoters to assure the world that the new city did indeed have a new hotel!
With the rest of the town, Dubuque House was abandoned in Dakota War of 1862 and probably burned by the Santee Sioux. When Fort Dakota, D.T., was established in 1865 at what is now the northeast corner of Phillips Avenue and Eighth Street, the Sioux Falls town site was included within the boundaries of the 70 square mile military reservation surrounding the fort. Not until Fort Dakota was closed in 1869-was the military reservation reopened for civilian settlement. The remains of the Dubuque House were razed and the stones were probably used to begin the construction of the Stevenson Hotel near the intersection of North Main Avenue and Falls Park Drive. Although that hotel’s walls were erected, the building was never completed. However, in 1874 stone from the unfinished Stevenson Hotel was used nearby for the construction of the city’s first brewery
Dedicated in 1997 by the minnehAHA COUNTY AND south dakota state historical societies, minnehaha century fund AND BLAKE LAW OFFICES
for five years and had a capital stock of $60,000.00. Its initial purpose was to found a city that would surround the falls of the Big Sioux River, just then a part of the great Minnesota Territory outback.
The founders had learned about the falls from a book by Jacob Ferris, entitled History of the States and Territories of the Great West. They hired two men, Ezra Millard and David M. Mills to find the falls and lay out a city. The land would be claimed under an act of Congress passed in 1844, that permitted a company to claim 320 acres of land for the purpose of building a town named Sioux Falls.
Millard and Mills, both of whom were well-qualified to explore and
locate sites, left Sioux City near the end of October and arrived at fabled falls after a trip of several days. In the name of their company, they laid claim to 320 acres of land that included the falls and a well-wooded eleven acre island at the head of the falls. Mills, a surveyor by trade and a veteran frontiersman, who had joined the California gold rush of the 1840s, also took up a personal claim of 160 acres.
The glowing accounts of the two explorers were thought to be so wildly extravagant, that the directors of the company sent another party to the falls to verify or refute the claims. So, in March of 1857, the second party set out to take a look at what Millard and Mills believed was the second best water power in the West, next to the St. Anthony Falls near St. Paul, Minnesota. The second look was enough to satisfy the skeptics who heartily recommended city at the falls as the coming metropolis.
All doubts resolved, in May of 1857, the Western Town Company sent out a third party consisting of John McClellan, Jesse T. Jarrett, Barclay Jarrett, James Farwell and Halvor Oleson, to establish a permanent settlement at the falls naming it Sioux Falls. A steam-driven sawmill was said to be one of their first improvements at the town site.
What the men from Dubuque didn’t know, was that a rival company from St. Paul, namely the Dakota Land Company, had also set their sights on the falls of the Big Sioux River. The generally-accepted belief is that, upon arrival, the men from St. Paul were greatly surprised to see the Dubuque men. Having arrived in late May, the Iowans were comfortably encamped at the falls, and after a brief meeting, the Dakota Land Company agents claimed 320 acres of land adjacent the claim of the Western Town Company. They named their town Sioux Falls City.
From that point onward, the companies worked together to build a city that everyone believed was a win-win proposition.
The building of a city got a big boost on August 27, 1857, when a party of builders representing the Western Town Company arrived at the falls. The party included Dr. Staples, Wilmot W. Brookings, Dr. Josiah L. Phillips, John McClellan, Smith Kinsey, Jesse T. Jarrett and his wife Amanda, who claimed to be the first white woman to visit the falls. Interestingly, the sight of a woman in that primitive setting was the cause of rejoicing among the men gathered there. Amanda, however, did not stay in the town site choosing to go to Sioux City, an established
town with minimal comforts.
Dr. Staples placed Brookings in charge of the party, and men from both companies got down to work cutting logs and laying the most rudimentary features of a frontier community. Prominent among the first structures was the Dubuque House, a crude hotel made of quartzite stone that was quarried at or near the site. Built by the Western Town Company, it was intended to serve the traveling public and it probably was also the headquarters for the Western Town Company. It was the first of many stone buildings erected in Sioux Falls from the immense supply of quartzite, and was, no doubt, a source of pride for its builders.
Since the hotel did not stand the test of time, its exact location was a mystery for many years. Historian Dr. Thomas Kilian devoted many years in an effort to find the place where it sat; a rough, pinkish stone pile that stood in stark contrast to the green hills. Finally, in 1971, Dr. Kilian was able to obtain a copy of the federal survey of 1859, that included the location of the Dubuque House, on present-day North Phillips Avenue.
That rough hotel was probably the most important structure
constructed by the Western Town Company. For unlike their rivals in the Dakota Land Company, who created other town sites along the Big Sioux River, including Medary and Flandreau, with a view of controlling the political and economic destiny of Dakota, the Dubuque speculators decided to sell off its assets and leave the frontier.
In May of 1859, the Western Town Company announced that an auction would be conducted and that all company assets would be sold to the highest bidder. The package included a claim cabin, a blacksmith shop and tools, a store house, a steam mill, two yokes of oxen, two wagons and a pony. Interestingly, there is no mention of the Dubuque House, something that might qualify as an important asset.
Some of the members of the Western Town Company, including Brookings, Dr. Phillips and McClellan decided to stay at the falls, and each man prospered and lived to tell a tale or two. Over the coming years, the Dubuque House sat empty and alone; a quiet symbol of the Iowa speculators outsized ambitions. Eventually it was torn down and the stone was used in the construction of other buildings, thus, in some obscure way, keeping it a part of Sioux Falls.
Wilmot W. Brookings, Land Agent for the Western Town Company
recipes 21
Who Needs Cupid When You’ve Got Chocolate?
at home 22
The Tom & Crys Van Wyhe Home
thrifting home 30
The $20 Challenge: Let’s go thrifting on a budget
the A list 34 man in the kitchen 36
Dining In Is the New Dining Out vino 39 The Art of Nurturing a Relationship
Who Needs Cupid When You’ve Got Chocolate?
BY JO MCCLURE
Symphony Bars
1 cup margarine
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
3 tsp vanilla
2 cups flour
2 cups chopped nuts
2 ounces melted unsweetened baking chocolate
Frosting:
5 tablespoons flour
1 cup milk
1 cup sugar
2 tsp vanilla
1 cup margarine
Cream margarine, and gradually add sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla. Sift the flour and salt together and add to the creamed mixture. Blend in the nuts and divide the dough in half. Add melted chocolate to half of the dough. Spread the white half of the dough in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan and then spread the chocolate half of the dough on top of the white layer. Bake at 350˚ for 30 minutes and cool.
In a heavy saucepan, slowly blend the milk and flour. Cook over low heat and stir constantly until thickened. Cool thoroughly. Cream margarine, sugar and vanilla in a small mixing bowl. Gradually add the milk and flour mixture and beat on high speed for 5 minutes or until creamy. Spread over the cooled bars.
THE Tom AND Crys Van Wyhe
BY
HOME
ANGELA ELLERBROEK | PHOTOS BY JULIE PRAIRIE
Crysand her late husband moved to Sioux Falls in 1999. They were planning to build a house, but needed a place to live while doing that. They found this 1950 home in Riverview Heights. Since her husband was a contractor, they thought it would be fun to buy and flip the house.
Well, as Crys says, “There is a mushroon effect. Thinking just a few paint-overs would flip the house, we began thinking that this commuity is a great community to live in. So, we went full force with re-wiring, new windows, new sheetrock, plumbing, etc.” They also thought a 16’ x 40’ addition would create a wonderful main bedroom and large spa bathroom. The house ended up at 4500 sq. ft. with four bedrooms, three of which have sitting rooms, a walkout garden level, three full baths, two fireplaces and two kitchens. According to Crys, what really caught their eye was the lot - huge, but very over-grown. The homes in the area are spaced far apart — making it very quiet. The narrow roads in the area also add to the quaintness of the neighborhood. It’s a wonderful walking community because of the lack of traffic, and the views of the very unique homes and gardens.
“It has been 26 years since I have lived here. I lost my dear husband in 2003. This was before we had begun landscaping the lot. I married another amazing man, Tom, in 2007 and I am truly blessed, adds Crys. Now, 18 years later, they have had great fun landscaping and developing an amazing patio, garden with gazebo and an outdoor kitchen/ garden storage structure. You can tell right away the backyard is one of their favorite
parts of home. Crys smiles as she says, “We love entertaining and having friends over to help us enjoy the gardens.” And, Crys promises we can visit the home again this summer to feature the garden in full bloom.
As mentioned, this home was built in 1950 by a commercial contractor. The floors are made of steel beams and cement! That was a bit of a problem when it came to changing the staircase from a simple open the door and walk down the stairs set up to an open staircase leading to a walkout garden level. The couple gives thanks to Alan and Chris Amdahl for helping them with the decisions and remodel.
Crys still remembers the noise and dust. “It wasn’t easy; steel saws were needed to open up the floor,” says Crys.
The house — now 75-years-old — and still just as loved. Crys says she loves the cozy spaces. Starting in her childhood days, she would play in their farm’s treed area and build “homes” out of branches; even marking off rooms with branches. In the winter, she would do the same, only marking rooms off by walking them out in the snow.
Crys also has a deep appreciation for craftsman style., And even though the home itself is not a craftsman house, she has decorated it that
way. She was fortunate to have a wonderful and talented brother, Curt, who is now deceased, that built the beautiful cabinets, shelves and furniture for the home. There is a lot of quartersawn oak throughout the house. One of Crys’ favorite rooms where she spends a lot of time is her kitchen. “It’s jut so cozy.”
She put in white oak floors throughout the upper level. The house has a woodsy feel. The fireplaces are stone, making it feel like a cabin. Crys says it feels magical to sit in the upper level and look out over the gardens and also when you are in the garden level and look out over the patio garden areas. It certainly doesn’t feel like you are right in the middle of the city. She credits Tom for the garden. He loves to spend his time outside and it shows. He is very handy and can fix almost anything. The attention to detail make is obvious that the patio area and outdoor seating area were a labor of love.
Since they remodeled in 1999 and wanted new cabinets in the kitchen, they moved the original cabinets to the laundry room downstairs and gave them a fresh coat of
paint. This gave them the second kitchenin the perfect spot for cooking and serving food on the patio. It is also a laundry room and art studio. Crys has taken up watercolor painting in the past three years and she loves spending time in this bright room creating her works of art. A self-taught artist, she began on a whim and has watched YouTube videos for a little inspiration. “My mother was an artist and it must have passed down to me. I have a painting she did in 1941 or 1942 while at SDSU. I found it after she had passed and I have it hanging in our main bedroom sitting area. I just adore it,” adds Crys.
The lower level also features two bedrooms with sitting rooms, a theater room/bedroom, an office and a faux wine cellar. An artist from Irene, S.D., Greg Preheim, painted the beautiful mural that makes you feel like you might be enjoying a glass of wine in a romantic Italian city. Crys says she will never change that room and that it is very special to her.
The house is multi-level by one or two step levels. They were unable to change this
because of the steel beams and cement floor. But the couple loves the foyer for this reason. You walk into the house and are on a raised floor that looks lover the living room, dining room and kitchen. Then you step two steps up in the bedroom wing of the house.
“I have always been a romantic at heart and our bedroom is a sanctuary in romantic
comfort. From filmy white drapery to soft colors and cushy bed dressings and lots of sparkling crystal light fixtures. A dressing screen divides the sleeping area from the sitting room. So, on my insomniac nights, I can simply go to the couch without waking my husband, and read until it’s time to go back to bed,” says Crys.
Crys says she always thought this house would be a great place to raise a family. They have made countless cherished memories in this home through the years. She laughs remembering visits from the grandkids with them running straight to the main bathroom for a swim in the tub. “They would get a hold of the sprayer and it would get wild!, she adds. And a few years down the road when teenagers visit, they have their own private “living spaces” that they seem to enjoy. Tom and Crys love nothing more than sharing time with their family.
With a fire in the fireplace, soft music in the background and a cup of coffee in hand, Crys contentedly sums it up very well. “All in all, our house is a cozy, warm and a fun enjoyable place to put our feet up!”
THE $20 CHALLENGE: LET’S GO THRIFTING ON A BUDGET.
BY BOBBI LYNN GAUKEL
HappyFebruary. Sometimes in the dead of winter, I get ideas. This month, it occurred to me that I’d like to see what other people besides myself like to thrift. Soon after the seed was planted, I started to make a mental list of some of the die hard thrifters I know, with the hope of coercing them into going thrifting with me. With $20 in our wallet, I found my first partner in crime for this ‘challenge’.
Meet Grace. She’s a Midwest girl who ended up in Sioux Falls for college and is now attending grad school at Truett Seminary in Waco, TX. I got to spend a morning with Grace recently and asked her a few questions about her thrifting philosophy.
Tell me about your thrifting journey. What got you hooked? Why is it important to you?
Thrifting was always present in my household growing up. We didn’t have much extra money, so thrift stores were our best friend for making our money stretch. There were seasons in my life where I hated thrifting because it felt limiting. It contributed to clutter and negatively impacted the presence of comparison. In the seasons where I loved thrifting, it was because of the freedom that came with the entire store being available to me because of the affordable price tags. As I’ve gotten older, my view of thrifting has changed. Now, thrifting is a way to find unique items, to find clothes that endure the test of time, and a way to take care of our planet. Thrifting is a significant way that we can care for our planet and as a bonus it’s also fun!
Have you scored any ‘prize’ finds?
Do you have a bucket list for thrifted items that you’re hoping to discover?
Any time I have a full outfit that has been thrifted, it automatically becomes a “prize find.” Other favorite thrift finds are a super cute white and blue blanket with the Lord’s prayer on it, a good suitcase, and any of my funky sweaters!
The thrifting bucket lists always contains pants. Pants that fit are hard to find, especially thrifted ones. I’m currently on the hunt for kitchen things. Containers, baking pans, plates, glasses, etc.
Okay, let’s revisit our excursion to three local thrift stores right here in Sioux Falls. What were some of your favorite finds for your $20 budget?
Pizza Ranch Sweatshirt: I purchased this for a few reasons. It’s a fun sweatshirt; it’s good quality and it seems barely used. Plus, it’s a very Midwest item that will be fun to bring back with me to TX.
Bird Canister: Lately, I’ve been on the hunt for some good food storage containers. This one fit the bill for one of my needs, and it is pretty! I am on the hunt for food storage containers that are not plastic for various uses. I plan to use this to store my coffee grounds.
Light Blue Yarn and Art Coasters: The yarn was purchased because I love to crochet! Yarn can get expensive, so thrifting it is a great way to make it more affordable. As for the coasters, with my recent move to TX I realized I didn’t have coasters, and when I saw this art set at the thrift store, I knew it needed to come home with me.
And what about Bobbi? Did SHE find anything?
Of course, that’s mostly a silly question to ask. Although I had no specific list for my venture with Grace, I was naturally able to score a couple things. Probably my favorite find was a Midcentury green lamp for the bargain price of $5. I had to replace the shade (with a thrifted one, of course) but it now sits happily in my craft room to bring some warm lighting to these dreary winter days.
What do you find for a steal at the thrift store these days? Do you set a budget for yourself? I look forward to sharing more adventures with you as 2025 progresses.
Bobbi Lynn Gaukel is a designer, thrifter and general keeper of old things.
A Family Keepsake
Create a family keepsake at Color Me Mine and celebrate that special day for years to come. Color Me Mine. 3709 W. 41st St. (605) 362-6055.
Kitchen Chaos
Tired of the chaos in your kitchen cabinets? Keep your bowls and lids organized, accessible, and stylish with a new accessory in your cabinet. Let our salespeople help you with your cabinet needs. Dakota Kitchen and Bath, 4101 N. Hainje Ave., Sioux Falls. (605) 334-9727. www.dakotakitchen.com
Stay Warm
Stay warm this winter in a new pair of adorable and super soft leg warmers from The Dance Line. 2115 S. Minnesota Avenue. (605) 335-8242. Thank you for shopping local!
New at Encompass Wellness
The Vtone uses electric magnetic stimulation (EMS) to tighten the pelvic floor to improve urinary incontinence and frequency. A single treatment is equivalent to 22,000 kegels and takes 40 minutes. Incontinence affects many women and is a simple solution to an embarrassing issue. When paired with FormaV we can address elasticity and vaginal dryness all in one visit. The treatments are painless with little downtime. Encompass Wellness. 4301 W. 57th St., (605) 740-0414.
Sioux Falls Local Best
Thank you for once again naming Julie Prairie Photography a Sioux Falls Local Best! We are so grateful for the many years and the countless clients. We’d love to hear from you if you are looking for a high school senior, family or commercial photographer. Visit the website at julieprairie.com or drop an email at jp@julieprairie.com. Keep Smiling!
Pick Me Up
Home décor need a little pick-me-up after the Christmas decorations came down? Shop Junk in the Trunk’s huge selection of high quality, pre-owned modern, mid-century, vintage, antique and upcycled furniture and home décor. Inventory changes daily - stop by today! Junk in the Trunk. 1918 W. 41st St. (605) 338-5510.
Get Hooked Ice
Fishing Derby
February 22 • 1-4pm
The Lake - Luverne, MN
Over $6,000 in prizes - adult and youth divisions. First 200 kids get a free rod, reel and tackle. Register at (507) 283-4061 or luvernechamber.com
Sweets & Treats
Love is sweet and we have the treats! Mary’s Mountain Cookies offers many delicious options for your Valentine’s Day gifts! Our gift boxes include, our ‘Simply Sweet’ box of 2 gourmet cookies, ‘Love Notes’ box of 6 gourmet cookies or our ‘Ooh La Love’ box which includes 6 gourmet cookies, 6 dipped strawberries and 4 brownie bon bons. All of our cookies are made with quality ingredients and baked with love! Visit our site at siouxfallscookies.com or call us at (605) 275-0060 to place your order!
#PlushGoals
Cuddle Barn makes the softest plush you’ll ever meet! These friends are made from perfectly huggable material. Kidtopia carries a HUGE selection of these delightful and adorable cuddly pals. Find your favorite today! Kidtopia. 901 S. Highline Pl., Sioux Falls. (605) 275-4825.
Charm and Character
Vintage decor is all about filling a home with charm and character. Vintage finds are a fantastic way to decorate a home. Shop the large selection of unique pillows, linens, picture frames, vases, blankets, lamps, books, candlesticks, baskets and more at the Nauti Nice booth at I-29 Antiques. I-29 south to Tea exit 73, then west 1/4 mile. INFO (605) 368-5810.
More Color Choices!
Experience the fresh beauty green brings to your life year round, by making it a part of your cabinetry project. We have a variety of green finishes. Bottle Green and Weathered Snow Bottle Green are shown here. Visit our showroom today for a complimentary design and ask one of our friendly designers about these choices from StarMark Cabinetry. Today’s StarMark Custom Cabinetry. 600 E. 48th Street N. (605) 977-3660.
DINING IN
IS THE NEW
DINING OUT
BY JIM MATHIS
Well, the holidays are over… they made for a hectic couple of months. Between year-end celebrations, and busy days at work, it seems like a blur of events, restaurants and take-out. Fill in with a few rushed meals of leftovers and it starts to feel like a quiet, relaxing meal at home is just not possible anymore.
It seems like those nights when I can spend a little time figuring out what to eat, planning the meal and enjoying the time in the kitchen have become fewer and farther between. I’m sure at one point in my life, I would have thought a life of dinners out on the town and a vast array of takeout options would have sounded like the perfect way to live. And don’t get me wrong, I love dinners out. But these days, it seems like we really treasure the nights we can spend at home.
As I write this, it’s Saturday afternoon. Nothing on the schedule for tonight. No rush, no deadlines, no interruptions. Just the two of us (three, if you count the dog). I’ve got a pot of red sauce on the stove. I’ll add some Italian sausage in a bit, toss that with some pasta, open a bottle of red, and relax. A perfect night.
The shift in my mindset has come slowly over the years. When I was younger, the idea of having someone else cook for me seemed like the ultimate luxury. I choose from the menu, the server brings a hot fresh meal and cold refreshing beverage. That must be the way the elite live, or so I thought. As I’ve gotten older (and wiser) I’ve learned it is less luxurious and often tedious. Now I realize a nice dinner at home is our new going out.
I think it really hit home several years ago when we were having the kitchen remodeled. For about four weeks, we had no stove, the fridge was in the living room and the microwave and toaster were our only cooking devices. We couldn’t even get to the grill because of the construction. So, during that time we ate at restaurants or from the limited opportunities we had for takeout and delivery. When those are your choices, you get sick of pizza and Chinese pretty quickly.
But the kitchen project is done; it has been for years. And I really like spending time in there. I enjoy researching and trying new dishes. I enjoy the cutting, peeling, chopping and prepping. I find a little time in the kitchen is a good chance to unwind and clear my head and focus on just the right balance of spices and seasonings.
So, at this point in my life, the nights I look forward to are the ones I can spend in the kitchen, whether it’s just for me and my beloved or cooking for a bunch of family and friends. I get to play with knives and fire and food. That’s my idea of fun.
I know I’m going to hear from people saying they would love the chance to order Chinese or spend a night out at their favorite restaurant. And I’m ready to take that heat. If we talk it through (how about we meet Tuesday night after work to talk about it, I’ll grab some takeout on the way home?) we’ll probably determine that the perfect balance is somewhere in between. A few home cooked meals plus a couple of nights where someone else does the cooking might be just right. As with so many things, moderation seems to be the key.
Now it’s time to stir the red sauce, think about a salad, and ponder the wine choices. The perfect night at home. Whether you’re at a restaurant or at home, do yourself a favor, eat something good today.
When he’s not waiting for carry-out enchiladas, Jim runs ADwërks, an advertising agency in Sioux Falls.
Encompass Wellness emphasizes personalized care, using high-quality products and the latest technologies to ensure optimal results for their patients.
The newest additions to the clinic are Vtone, FormaV, and Morpheus 8V which are used for vaginal rejuvenation. The Vtone uses electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) to strengthen and tone the pelvic floor to eliminate urinary incontinence and frequency. A single treatment is equivalent to 22,000 Kegels. Incontinence affects many women and Vtone a simple solution to an embarrassing issue.
When paired with FormaV we can address elasticity, sensitivity, and vaginal dryness all in one visit. The treatments are painless with little downtime. Hours: M-F 8 am-5 pm 605.740.0414 • encompass-wellness.com 4301 W. 57th St., STE 160 • Sioux Falls
Nurturing a Relationship THE ART OF
BY RICCARDO TARABELSI
Don’t turn the page! You’re in the right section. This is the WINE article, I promise. This is not the relationship advice column; however, there are more similarities between a relationship and wine than you might think. For the wine collector, there are many key factors to nurturing wine, so that it will age gracefully and peak at the right moment. Much like a relationship, wines need love and caring too. Below are the keys to nurturing wine (and your relationship) to make this Valentine’s Day a day to remember.
Much like a relationship, wines need love and caring too
Key #1 Keep Cool
In a budding relationship, it’s important to keep cool and allow the relationship to develop naturally. This is very important to wines too. While wines are aging, they like to be kept at cooler temperatures. Heat is Enemy Number One for wine. Temperatures higher than 70° F will age a wine more quickly than is usually desirable. And if it gets too much hotter, your wine may get “cooked,” resulting in flat aromas and flavors. The ideal temperature range is between 55° F and 65° F, though this isn’t an exact science. Don’t fret too much if your storage runs a couple degrees warmer, as long as you’re opening the bottles within a few years from their release.
Key #2 Going Steady
Relationships are like roller coasters, but if your relationship has a steady goal, it’s going to last for a long time. More important than worrying about achieving a perfect 58°F is avoiding the landmines of rapid, extreme, or frequent temperature swings. On top of cooked flavors, the expansion and contraction of the liquid inside the bottle might push the cork out or cause seepage. Aim for consistency, but don’t get paranoid about minor temperature fluctuations; wines may
see worse in transit from the winery to the store. (Even if heat has caused wine to seep out past the cork, that doesn’t always mean the wine is ruined. There’s no way to know until you open it— it could still be delicious.)
Key #3 Turn the Lights Off
Okay, keep calm. We all know what this means in a relationship, but to wine, light (especially sunlight) can pose a potential problem for long-term storage. The sun’s UV rays can degrade and prematurely age wine. One of the reasons why vintners use colored glass bottles? They’re like sunglasses for wine. Light from household bulbs probably won’t damage the wine itself, but it can fade your labels in the long run. Incandescent bulbs may be a bit safer than fluorescent bulbs, which do emit very small amounts of ultraviolet light.
Key #4 Don’t Let Them See You Sweat
Remember the butterflies you felt when you were first dating your loved one? Did you ever let them see you sweat? Conventional wisdom says that wines should be stored at an ideal humidity level of 70 percent. The theory goes that dry air will dry out the corks, which would let air
into the bottle and spoil the wine. Yes, this does happen, but unless you live in a desert or in arctic conditions, it probably won’t happen to you. Anywhere between 50 percent and 80 percent humidity is considered safe, and placing a pan of water in your storage area can improve conditions. Conversely, extremely damp conditions can promote mold. This won’t affect a properly sealed wine, but it can damage your labels.
Key #5 Sideways
BY RICCARDO TARABELSI
Again, I know what you’re thinking but get your mind out of the gutter! Traditionally, bottles have been stored on their sides in order to keep the liquid up against the cork, which theoretically should keep the cork from drying out. If you’re planning on drinking these bottles in the near- to mid-term, or if the bottles have alternative closures (screw caps, glass, or plastic corks), this is not necessary. I will say this: Horizontal racking is a space-efficient way to store your bottles, and it definitely can’t harm your wines.
Key #6 Good Vibrations
No, no, no, don’t even go there! There is nothing good about vibrations when it comes to your wine storage. There are theories that vibration could damage wine in the long term by speeding up the chemical reactions in the liquid. Some serious collectors worry about even the subtle vibrations caused by electronic appliances, though there’s little evidence documenting the impacts of this. Significant vibrations could possibly disturb the sediment in older wines and keep them from settling, potentially making them unpleasantly gritty. Unless you live above a train station or are hosting rock concerts, is this likely to be a problem for your short-term storage? No.
Key #7 Location. Location. Location
I don’t know how this pertains to love (maybe being in the right place at the right time?) For wine storage, it’s finding a cool, not-too-damp space in the basement that can double as a cellar. Rule out your kitchen, laundry room, or boiler room, where hot temperatures could affect your wines, and look for a location not directly in line with light pouring in from a window. You could also buy a small wine cooler and follow the same guidelines: If you keep your wine fridge in a cool place, it won’t have to work so hard, keeping your energy bill down.
Hopefully I’ve been able to give you some vital pieces to the romantic puzzle of your relationship. Probably not; however, I do hope you now have enough information to get started on your wine collection. It’s an exciting adventure that demands attention to detail, a commitment to quality, and a patient soul. Sounds a lot like a relationship to me… Buon Valentino and Carpe Vino!
Riccardo will be spending his Valentine’s Day with Marybeth, his wife of almost 28 years, hosting guests at their restaurants R Wine Bar & Kitchen, Brix Wine Bar, Vespa Catering, Maribella Ristorante, and Trio Jazz Club, along with their sons Dante, Berent, and Jaxon. Contact Riccardo at riccardo@rwinebar.com.
JENNY PALS
friends& family
Crafty Valentines
BY JESS WEISCHEDEL
for Kids
Magical Heart Wand
What You Need:
wooden dowel, chenille stems, ribbon, yarn, and beads.
How to Create:
Wrap chenille stems around the wooden dowel. Choose which beads you will add to another chenille stem, spelling out a word related to Valentine’s Day or simply using various colors or patterns. Once the beads are threaded onto the chenille stem, add it to the top of the wooden dowel by wrapping both ends around the top and leaving the center portion unwrapped, creating a loop. Shape the loop into a heart shape, with the beads showing up on one side of the heart. Begin to tie various types of ribbon, yarn, and other details of your choice around the wooden dowel, further securing the chenille stems in place. The moment you feel like you are holding a wand, your creation is complete. Make several of these for some magical classroom valentines!
Threaded Heart Valentine Kit
What You Need:
Cardstock, toothpick, yarn, pencil, scissors, a chenille stem, and a small Ziploc bag.
How to Create:
With a pencil, practice placing dots onto paper in the shape of a heart that are evenly spaced. Once you are happy with your dot pattern, copy it onto the cardstock you will use for the valentine. Using a toothpick, carefully poke a small hole through each dot, pulling the toothpick all the way through the back to avoid any tears or unevenness. Next, trim the amount of yarn needed to thread through the entire heart pattern, then cut a chenille stem in half. Meet the two ends or your yarn together, folding the halved chenille stem around the middle portion of your yarn and twisting to secure it in place. This will be your homemade sewing needle, which is safe for kids to use. Twist the chenille stem around itself as tightly as possible, ensuring it won’t catch while trying to thread the yarn through the holes in the cardstock. Try testing the sewing needle and yarn by threading it through a practice heart, to make sure the recipient won’t struggle with the outcome. Once you are confident with the job your yarn and sewing needle can do, wrap the yarn around the bottom portion of your cardstock, tucking the needle in place. Write a catchy message below the heart and place in a small Ziploc bag to protect the craft until it is completed by the Valentine who receives it!
Lego, best friend of the Boudwin family
Winnie, best friend of Epiphany and Tim
Squirt, best friend of Jeff and Jacki
Each month we will choose and feature cute pets. Your pet could be next, so send in a picture today.
Email your photo – just one per pet – to etc.mag@sio.midco.net. Please make sure they are high-resolution photos (the highest setting on your camera). Include in email: pet’s name and owner’s name. Pet owners must own the rights to all submitted photos.
Furever Homes
Roxy, best friend of the Domenico family
Indiana “Indi” Wishbone, best friend of the Tombaga family
Walter and Bruce, best friends of the Tremblay family
Best BOOKS
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.
Eli and the Uncles
Written by Jehan Madhani
Young Eli gets to spend a whole day with his eight adoring uncles—each one bigger and taller than the last, and each with an outsized personality to match, from Aman the dancer to Riz the joke teller. Even better, every one of the uncles sports his own unique set of whiskers! Short or long, curly or straight, bristly or soft, whatever the style or texture, every especially elegant beard is a sight to behold (and a sleepy-time aid for Eli as he says his good-nights one by one). Candlewickpress.com
Seven
Little Ducklings
Written by Annette LeBlanc Cate
When a plump mother duck awakens one morning, she’s stunned to discover that her seven eggs have hatched in the night and all of her ducklings have wandered off. Now she has to search for them out in the wild! The mother duck keeps careful count as she discovers her babies one by one—on branches, stuck in ooze, and even in the jaws of a fox. Five, six, seven . . . eight? Nine? Sharp-eyed readers will love seeing the mother unwittingly rescue not only her own ducklings, but also an unusual flock of other creatures! Luckily, she has plenty of love to give! Annette LeBlanc Cate’s whimsical illustrations and natural rhymes make this tale of counting and family a sweet delight.
Candlewickpress.com
Love Is Here with You A Lullaby of Blessings
Written by Jyoti Rajan Gopal
In this original lullaby, rich cultural traditions combine with a family’s hopes for their baby to create a soothing ritual sure to be a favorite bedtime read and baby shower gift. Candlewickpress.com
Fergus and Zeke and the 100th Day of School
Written
by Kate
Messner
Fergus and Zeke love being the class pets in Miss Maxwell’s classroom, and they do everything the students do. But when the kids start collecting items and doing gym challenges and making projects to celebrate the one hundredth day of school, the mice can’t seem to find a way to join in. One hundred miles is a very long distance when you’re running on your spinny wheel. One hundred seconds is a very short time when you’re trying to take a nap. Stacking one hundred wood chips makes a tower that tips and falls before you’re even halfway done. And writing a story with exactly one hundred words means abandoning your characters in the middle of the action! Will these two classroom mice ever come up with the perfect project to celebrate the one hundredth day?
The Midnight Panther
Written by Poonam Mistry
Panther loves the rainforest, but sometimes he feels as though he doesn’t belong in the same way the other animals do—especially the other big cats. Panther desperately wishes he had the same bold qualities as Tiger, Lion, and Leopard. Thus begins Panther’s adventure though the trees to find a way to be just as special and dazzling. With some guidance and a few mishaps, Panther finally discovers his own strength and beauty among the stars in the night sky. Candlewickpress.com
Beanie the Bansheenie
Written by Eoin Colfer
A best-selling author and an award-winning illustrator join forces in a long-form picture book that turns a familiar myth of Irish folklore into a universal story of love, perseverance, and friendship against all odds.
Candlewickpress.com
Love from Anna Hibiscus!
Written by Atinuke
Anna Hibiscus is on holiday with Grandmother and Grandfather in the village where they were born. She befriends the local children there and teaches them their ABCs and 123s. When Anna goes to market one day and a boy steals a banana from her, she runs after him. It turns out that the boy is poor and lives alone. Anna and Sunny Belafonte become friends, and when Sunny is taken ill, it is Anna who makes sure he gets the medical help he needs. Happily, Grandfather invites Sunny Belafonte to live with them and be part of their family.
Candlewickpress.com
Unicornia: A Magical Birthday
Written by Ana Punset
There is only one thing better than a birthday party—a birthday party in Unicornia! Here the cakes are enchanted, the candies change flavor, and the theme parks are covered in glitter. But Pippa’s birthday has started off on the wrong foot, and her friends must think quickly to turn disaster into great fun. Luckily for them, they live in the most magical place ever!
Candlewickpress.com
During The Longest Day fundraising campaign, stand up to the darkness of Alzheimer’s. Pick your favorite activity and raise funds and awareness for care, support and research.
Sign up today at alz.org/thelongestday or call our office at 605-339-4543. Together, the strength of our light will outshine the darkness of Alzheimer’s.
START NOW. SELECT YOUR ACTIVITY AT ALZ.ORG/THELONGESTDAY.
Credit: Jason Yoshino
Credit: Nicole Marie Photography