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October 4-5, 2025
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HEARTH PRODUCTS BRING COMFORT & JOY Fireplace Professionals
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EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
President: Joel Ingle, C-Lemme Co.
Vice President: Cory Hjellming, Hjellming Construction
Second VP: Craig Wynia, Jeren Homes
Associate VP: Adam Balding, Budget Blinds
Secretary: Sabrina Meierhenry, Land Title Guaranty
Treasurer: Jim Dunham, Jim Dunham & Associates
Past President: Doug Top, Top Construction
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Daniel Glammeier, Glammeier Homes
Erik Christensen, Trademark Homes
Jesse Deffenbaugh, Deffenbaugh Homes
Jon Beatch, Beatch Construction
Julie Redlin, Rainbow Restoration
Kris Graff, Anthem Title Escrow Service
Kyle Cosand, Cosand Construction
Ruth Ann Scott, The Living Door
Ryan Brouwer, Choice Builders
Tom DeHaven, CorTrust Mortgage
Will DeWitt, Concrete Outdoor Living
Call us today at (605) 361-8322
Monday - Friday (8:30AM - 5:00PM) 6904 S. Lyncrest Place, Sioux Falls, SD 57108 hbasiouxempire.com
PRESIDENT’S
The Timeless Warmth of a Fireplace: A Cozy Addition to Any Home
There’s something deeply nostalgic about gathering around a fireplace. The crackle of logs, the flicker of flames, and the warmth on a chilly evening remind us of simpler times, family gatherings, and cozy nights at home. Whether you’re considering adding a fireplace or upgrading an existing one, a fireplace brings both comfort and charm to any space.
Fireplaces have come a long way from the traditional brick and stone hearths of the past. Today, there is a fireplace to match every style and design preference, from rustic to ultra-modern. Homeowners no longer have to settle for one option—fireplaces now come in a variety of types, sizes, and finishes, allowing you to choose one that complements your home’s aesthetic perfectly.
For those who prefer a sleek, contemporary look, linear fireplaces are a popular choice. Their long, narrow shape and minimalist design can be seamlessly integrated into a wall, making them both a heating source and a statement piece. Gas fireplaces are also a favorite for their clean lines and convenience, offering the beauty of a real flame without the need to chop wood or deal with ash.
Electric fireplaces have also gained popularity, especially for homes without chimneys. These units are easy to install, energyefficient, and often come with customizable flame effects, allowing homeowners to adjust the mood with the touch of a button. And for eco-conscious homeowners, bioethanol fireplaces provide a clean burning, environmentally friendly option, with no smoke or fumes to worry about.
People are drawn to fireplaces not just for their warmth but for the sense of togetherness they create. Whether it’s family gatherings, cozy nights with a good book, or simply a quiet evening at home, a fireplace adds a sense of comfort and relaxation that’s hard to beat.
No matter your style—whether you love the traditional charm of a wood-burning fireplace or the sleek, hassle-free appeal of electric or gas—there’s a fireplace that will fit perfectly into your home.
Executive Vice President: Teddi Mueller
Affairs & Ed Director: Todd Anawski
Membership Director: Lisa Contreras Marketing and Communication Director : Marissa Bertram
Ready to turn your fireplace dreams into reality? Head over to our website at hbasiouxempire.com or scan the QR Code below for a list of professionals who can help make it happen! Our members are fired up and ready to assist you in finding the perfect fit for your style and needs.
SCAN HERE FOR HOME BUILDERS Business Directory!
Lauren Johnson
Michaela Feldmann
PHOTOGRAPHY
Drift Media Co.
Tim Hanson Productions
Corey Gross Photography
By: Michaela Feldmann
As the days get shorter and the nights get longer, the cold starts to creep its way back into our lives. To turn back the chill, curling up next to the bright, warm glow of a fireplace brings many of us a sense of comfort and joy.
“Each one is like a fingerprint,” says Tony Leggett, owner of Fireplace Professionals. “Fireplaces continue to be an important back up heating and light source, especially in the Midwest. They’re kind of this way to bring some happiness to a dark area of your room.”
That’s been the goal of Fireplace Professionals since they opened their doors.
“My parents started it up really to provide this alternative heating products retail store. We sold woodburning stoves, instantaneous water heaters, kerosene and infrared space heaters and some woodburning fireplaces for new construction,” Tony explains.
Throughout the 1980s, they sold much of the same. In 1988, new technology emerged out of Minneapolis, Minnesota.
“That was for a wood-burning fire box that had a gas log set in it, with sealed glass over it. At first a lot of people in the industry thought that it was just a gimmick or fad – that it wouldn’t even last a year and we’d be back to woodburning again soon,” Tony notes.
Instead, it revolutionized fireplaces and the entire industry forever.
“We were right here on the front lines,” Tony adds. “No longer was our primary focus the alternative fuels. Gas fireplaces have dominated what we’ve done for a long time. The wood-burning counterparts are still there, but now we have other options, too.”
Options like electric fireplaces, which have become extremely popular in the last 15 to 20 years.
Electric fireplaces are designed to fit in a lot of places. You can put them in places that weren’t possible 10, 15 or 20 years ago,” Tony states. “You can have a fireplace wherever it may seem kind of dark.
Maybe it is the foyer area when you’re welcoming people into your home, or the basement, kids’ room or even the bathroom. Maybe it acts as a sort of night light on the way to the refrigerator in the middle of the night for a snack,” jokes Tony.
So, how do you choose the right fireplace for you –wood-burning, gas, or electric?
“A lot has to do with aesthetics or how authentic it is. A wood-burning fireplace is at the top of the scale. I’d say a gas fireplace comes in as a close second,” Tony notes. “They’re still realistic looking and some people prefer them because of the control options and electric options that are built right in. The electric one, of course, is the most flexible and versatile. They can work anywhere in the house.”
Heat power also sets the three apart from one another.
“Electric fireplaces are available in different horsepower in terms of output. Most gas fireplaces these days are in the 70-80 percent efficiency rating. Wood fireplaces are only limited by how much wood you can put in the fireplace,” Tony explains.
Tony says having a powerful heat source is increasingly more important.
“It’s becoming evident, especially in the upper Midwest, that we need to have redundant heat sources in our homes. So, if something would happen to your main heat source, you have a backup. And, it’s become more important to us that those heat sources either blend right into the décor of the house or they are an additive decorative amenity to the room like a piece of furniture.”
One area that seamlessly blends in fireplaces is in outdoor spaces.
“The outdoor area started to get popular around 2000. It’s only gotten more mature since then. People have started to insist on higher quality materials so they can withstand our rugged winters. They also have to be able to light in the wind,” Tony explains.
Want to customize your fireplace? No problem.
“You can order some of them in whatever size you want. We can make it go with a swimming pool, spa or apartment complex aesthetic. They’re really regarded as a piece of furniture for outdoors that can go with whatever your design is,” adds Tony.
But they don’t just equip outdoor spaces with fireplaces.
“We also have fire bowls. A company out of the Twin Cities brought us the first fire bowl. We have a whole line of those here that are finished with all American made products – only the safest ignition systems and they’re very realistic looking fires.”
One of Tony’s favorite projects they got to be a part of was in Flandreau, South Dakota.
“We actually helped with fire burners for a ceremonial area for Native Americans. They needed something that could maintain a consistent fire as the ceremony goes on. If it happens to blow out, it will re-light itself, too. We seem to find ourselves in all kinds of great places. You never know what is going to happen,” Tony adds.
That’s one of Tony’s favorite things about the job. Another is seeing the progression and development of hearth products.
“This last year has been very interesting. We’ve started to see the development of what we call an open-hearth gas fireplace, which are glass less,” Tony notes.
It’s the opposite of the gas fireplaces they started with in the ‘80s.
“Today, people wish they had a way to be closer to the fire. We don’t want glass over a fireplace. We almost wish that we could put our hands right up against the radiant flames.”
With all the options for hearth products like stoves, barbecues, outdoor kitchens, wood-burning fire pits and of course fireplaces,
Fireplace Professionals is the place to turn to.
With their online showroom, “You’re always looking at the newest ideas and a picture is worth 1,000 words,” Tony states. “So, if you can get that and show it to the person building your home or outdoor area, it will show exactly what your idea is.”
To their excellent service, Fireplace Professionals stands behind their products and service.
“We strive to provide you with the highest quality, most innovative products available and all at a price you can afford! We are here for you,” Tony assures.
LOCAL EXPERTS IN:
Foundation
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Radon
By: Lauren Johnson | Photos By: Corey Gross Photography
This 2,200-square-foot twin home located at 8124 E. Norway Pine Trail in the Willow Ridge III Addition subdivision in Sioux Falls is an extraordinary 3-bedroom, 2-bath, contemporary ranch-style home with timeless details! The exterior facade has a series of dramatic pitched roof lines finished in contrasting materials, while the combined use of vertical clad wood, stucco, and natural stack stone creates an interesting yet unified look.
This home was thoughtfully designed and built by husband-and-wife team Matt and Carissa DeRocher of MJ DeRocher Construction, LLC, serving Le Mars, Akron, Sioux Falls, and the surrounding area since 2010. They continue to alter both the design and style of the homes to keep up with the ever-changing styles of the building market and have designed all types of homes including modern, craftsman, and traditional. When you step inside a MJ DeRocher Construction home, you will quickly understand what sets the custom designs and top-notch quality apart from others, and this home is no exception.
Entering through the glass panel front door into the welcoming entry hall you are lured further into the home by the light-filled great room, where the kitchen, living room, and dining room share vaulted ceilings and large windows that frame the private, fenced-in yard with sprinkler system. Sliding doors off the dining room and a single glass panel door from the living room provides easy access to the covered patio for perfect party flow.
The highlight of the living room is the dramatic, floorto-ceiling, stucco fireplace wall with a deep suedelike texture. The thick wood mantel holds your art and candles while the inset glass fireplace warms chilly winter nights.
The flooring that unites the spaces is a blonde woodgrain luxury vinyl plank with in-floor heat. Recessed lighting in the vaulted ceilings wash the spaces with uniform light, while the modern black ceiling fan moves the air. The formal dining area features a fun pendant fixture which resembles interlocking, sharp, bands of light, while the three drop pendants over the kitchen island are contrasting half-round, black orbs of light, perfectly balancing the black finish on the kitchen island.
The custom kitchen cabinetry is made of Riff Oak, with contemporary flat panel doors in a warm, caramel-colored finish, punctuated with black hardware to match the black plumbing fixtures in the kitchen and throughout the home. The countertops are a classic white quartz, with soft caramel marbelization. The featured center island has ample space to seat a family of four with a sink, dishwasher, and plenty of food-prep space on either side. The kitchen has impressive storage by way of long drawers below the counters and long expanses of upper cabinets. There is space for a dropin range, a built-in microwave, and an inset counter-depth refrigerator. Tile backsplash in a contemporary soft grey tone gives us a nod to traditional design in its simple and unifying brick tile pattern.
Long runs of painted white walls are perfect for your art collections and are framed by contrasting, black-painted base molding, door casings, and interior doors in single-panel, timeless craftsman style.
The bedrooms are carpeted for a luxurious and cozy feel. In the primary bedroom, the carpeting flows into the spacious walk-in closet, which also opens into the primary bathroom. The Riff Wood cabinetry, quartz countertops, and contrasting black plumbing fixtures match the rest of the home. The bathroom floors echo the marble countertop pattern and flow seamlessly into the expansive primary walk-in shower. The coordinating shower floor tiles are a mosaic hexagon, while the shower walls are largeformat porcelain tiles with no visible grout lines, creating a clean, contemporary look. Plus, there is a beautiful free-standing soaker tub to melt away the stresses of your day.
Beyond all these stunning features, this home has a bonus room that is perfect for a home office, guest room, or den. The oversized, three-car garage has a door to access the house through a designated, extra mud room/drop zone, keeping the house clean and uncluttered.
The MJ DeRocher Construction team is here to help with your homebuilding needs, now and for future generations. “We truly enjoy connecting with our clients to help them create the home of their dreams,” says Carissa. “Our hard-working crew and dedicated group of local subcontractors are ready to design and construct to the exact specifications of your family’s needs.”
s your backyard lacking that spark? It’s time to ignite it with a fiery touch! Fire features have emerged as the ultimate outdoor statement; they can be the heart and soul of your outdoor living space. Whether you’re envisioning cozy nights by a crackling fire or hosting unforgettable gatherings, a well-designed fire feature can take your outdoor living experience to new heights.
The use of fire features provides a variety of benefits beyond simply creating a pleasant ambiance. A fire feature allows you to enjoy your backyard all year round. It can make a focal point for friends and family to congregate and increase your home’s curb appeal and potential value. The mesmerizing dance of flames is also incredibly therapeutic, relaxing, and stress-relieving.
Beyond the Ordinary: Unique Fire Feature Ideas
• Fire pits: Fire pits offer a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, making them a versatile and timeless choice that caters to diverse preferences. Whether selecting a portable version or a permanent installation, fire pits provide flexibility and warmth to help you create a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere.
Article Courtesy of ArticleCity
• Fireplaces or Fire Tables: Instead of settling for a basic standalone grill, consider the option of having a fireplace with an integrated grilling area. This versatile feature combines the best of both worlds—entertaining guests and savoring delightful meals in an outdoor setting. It also adds an element of sophistication and visual appeal to your outdoor area.
• Fire Bowls: Modern and minimalist, fire bowls create a sleek and contemporary atmosphere. They are perfect for smaller spaces or those seeking a clean-lined aesthetic. Create a dramatic look with a suspended fire bowl. Hanging from a pergola or a sturdy tree branch adds a touch of whimsy and elegance to your outdoor space.
Design Tips
When choosing a fire feature for your outdoor space, it’s essential to consider the area’s size and shape. These aspects will play a significant role in deciding whether a wood, gas, or propane-powered option is best for you. Safety should always come first when installing a fire feature, so make sure you have proper ventilation and keep flammable materials away. It’s also important to think about the direction of prevailing winds and smoke.
Choose the right material to achieve the desired aesthetic and ensure its long-term durability. Fortunately, there are numerous options available, such as stone, brick, metal, and concrete, allowing for flexibility and creativity in your design.
Elevate Your Outdoor Experience
Integrating a unique fire feature can transform your outdoor space into an enchanting and unforgettable area.
Cozy seating, soft lighting, snug blankets, outdoor rugs, greenery, and water elements can also enhance the experience. Whether you prefer a modern or rustic look, our team is dedicated to bringing your unique vision to life.
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RESOURCE GUIDE
By: Lauren Johnson
This stunning single-story, two-bedroom, twobath, slab-on-grade villa home with a three-car garage is a delightful combination of traditional ranch charm with modern luxury and convenience. Located at 181 Thelma Avenue in Harrisburg, this beautiful 1,540-square-foot home is part of the Mydland Estates subdivision, providing outstanding amenities such as walking trails, playgrounds, ponds, and more in a family-first community. Enjoy the tranquility of small town living while only minutes from Sioux Falls.
Crafted by the experts at family-owned Van Buskirk Companies, Jordan Hefner, Residential Construction Operations Manager, says, “Our seasoned homebuilding team will collaborate with you to ensure that your dream home is not just built, but crafted with precision, care, and unparalleled expertise.” Van Buskirk Companies was established in 1971 by Myron Van Buskirk, and today is considered one of the most respected full-service real estate companies in the region.
Entering the home through an entry hallway, you will see a view of the open concept living area. The flooring in the main living spaces is luxury vinyl plank, with the look and feel of wood in light gray and brown earth tones. The baseboards, interior doors, and casings are beautifully crafted in complementing, warm wood tones.
As you enter the main living/dining/kitchen space, you will be struck by the contemporary horizontal fireplace surrounded by large-scale porcelain tile with a classic marble look. The ceiling fan above the seating area will help move the air coming through the oversized windows throughout the living room and dining room.
Photos By: Tim Hanson Productions
The kitchen is separated from the living and dining areas with a working island which contains the sink and dishwasher on the kitchen side and seating for three on the other side. This is a great workspace to cook up your magic while facing the family, TV, or party! The cabinetry has a medium-toned wood surface which matches the wood details throughout the home. A favorite feature is the hidden walk-in pantry nestled behind tall cabinet doors. The countertops are a modern yet classic solid surface quartz for easy maintenance, and the contrasting backsplash has both warm and cool tones of lightly textured brick-like tile.
The adjacent space for the dining table is punctuated with a beautiful brushed gold and glass fixture. Between the living and dining areas is the door to the outside patio for perfect entertaining flow. The backyard behind the home is a lovely, wooded lot just waiting for some personalized landscaping.
Off the dining area are glass-panel French doors leading into a sun-filled room, which will make a perfect den or home office.
The bedrooms are carpeted for that cozy, warm feeling. The luxury vinyl plank flooring continues into both bathrooms, while the vanities pick up the wood cabinetry that matches the kitchen. The primary shower is spacious, with a solid-insert floor and large-format tiles on the walls while the shower niche is neatly framed by a floor-to-ceiling detail of mosaic tile in accent tones. Modern plumbing fixtures in black contrast the bronze details in the door hinges and handles throughout the house, while the consistent use of bronze for the cabinet pulls and light fixtures adds a bit of sparkle.
The exterior combines horizontal clapboard with textured stone, all in light, natural tones. To enter the home, you walk up a private path to the covered front entry door. Sod, sprinklers, rock, and edging are all included. You may also enter the home directly through a door from the garage, making access a breeze. Tucked into the back hallway, yet convenient to the main living area, is the washer and dryer hook up.
From contemporary homes to timeless classics, start your new or custom home journey with Van Buskirk Companies. “We prioritize open communication and collaboration, valuing your input at every stage of the process,” Jordan says. “We tailor our services to meet your
needs, turning concepts into masterpieces that exceed your expectations.”
Ready to get started? Check out our homes at vbclink.com or call us at 605-361-8211
Experience the unparalleled beauty and durability of Cambria quartz surfaces at Creative Surfaces. Scan the QR code to find your exceptional style.
AVALENE ™
November 22-24 We’re
Bayer Built Woodworks, Inc. was founded in 1982 by the Bayer family. By listening and reacting to the needs of our customers, Bayer Built Woodworks has successfully grown into one of the premier 2-step distributors in the markets that we serve. We are proud to provide quality millwork with unbelievable service!
ON TREND
By: Article City/Article Biz
WHAT IS A FIREPLACE?
A fireplace is a structure that is typically built inside a home and is used to generate heat from a fire. A fireplace can also be used to create ambiance in a room and to provide a place for homeowners to gather and socialize. Fireplaces come in many different shapes and sizes, and they can be made from many different materials, such as brick, stone, or metal. They can also have many different features, such as a mantel, a surround, or a hearth. There are three main types of fireplaces: fireplace inserts, gas fireplaces, and wood-burning fireplaces.
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FIREPLACE INSERTS
A fireplace insert is quite simply a box (a firebox) which is designed to fit into an existing masonry or steel fireplace. It is made from steel or cast iron intended to produce heat and moves it throughout the house. An ultra-productive fireplace insert can offer heat to a large portion of your house however is dependent on a lot of things like the layout, the size of the insert among others.
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GAS FIREPLACES
Gas fireplaces run on either natural or propane gas and come with many attractive features such as gas logs that look just like real wood. You can choose from oak, pine, birch, fruitwood etc. Gas logs are made from ceramic and not only look real, but also produce a great fire. Many gas fireplaces come with a remote control or are operated through the use of a wall switch which allows the owner to enjoy it as much or as little as he or she wants. Finally, gas fireplaces provide an alternative source of light and heat during a power failure.
WOOD FIREPLACES
Wood fireplaces use natural wood logs for fuel, and produce smoke, which is vented out of the house and up the chimney, with a natural residue of ash and soot left after burning logs. Many people prefer a wood burning fireplace over a gas fireplace because of the natural-looking flames that come when the fire is lit, as well as the soft sound of crackles as the logs burn, and the amber glow of the logs as they are used and spent.
Visit the expanded showroom at Today’s StarMark Custom Cabinetry in north Sioux Falls and start on your dream home project today. Our friendly design experts will help you discover exactly what you want for your home.
