Aberdeen Magazine March/April 2017 by McQuillen Creative Group

LOST AND FOUND OCCASIONALS

COMMUNITY. LIFE. STYLE.

HIDDEN HISTORY

ONE-OF-A KIND FARMHOUSE STYLE ITEMS

AND NOW FOR THE WEATHER

AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE

ON TARGET

THE WHITETAIL BOWMAN ARCHERY CLUB

MARCH/APRIL 2017 Who's a good dog?

THE M. & ST. L. TRAIN DEPOT

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Contents VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 2 • MARCH/APRIL 2017

20 04 FROM THE EDITOR 06 THE HUB What’s got everybody talking

ON THE COVER Hera, a ten-week old Dakota Sporting Retriever belonging to Jake Stohr, got up close and personal with the camera as she attended her very first day of K-9 Kindergarten. Find out more about Hera and her classmates on page 28!

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

10 LOST AND FOUND OCCASIONALS Learn more about this unique shop selling unique farmhouse style items 12 CALENDAR Don't miss these events

24 14 ON TARGET The Whitetail Bowman Archery Club 16 PROFILE Golf Pro Dean Zahn ensures that golf in Aberdeen is tee-rific 18 THE FASTEST GAME ON TWO FEET Lacrosse takes off in Aberdeen

20 HOT BEEF COMBO Nothing says “comfort food” like this tasty dish, a favorite among customers at the Virginia Café 22 ALL THAT GLITTERS If you like collecting and investing, Gold N' Gems is the perfect store for you

VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 2 • MAR/APR 2017

ISSN 2378-3060 MANAGING EDITOR Becca Simon

PUBLISHER Troy McQuillen

DESIGN

Eliot Lucas

AD SALES

Abby McQuillen abby@mcquillencreative.com

PUBLICATION OFFICE McQuillen Creative Group 423 S. Main St., Suite 1 Aberdeen SD, 57401 (605) 226-3481

PRINTING

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Aberdeen Magazine welcomes your input. Message us your story ideas, drop off historic photos, or stop in for a chat. Email us at: becca@aberdeenmag.com troy@mcquillencreative.com

WEBSITE

www.aberdeenmag.com

PRIVACY STATEMENT

32 24 WORKS OF HEART Local artist Carol Weber Green keeps fairytale magic alive in her artwork

30 SEEDS OF SPRING The first sign of spring is the arrival of sunflower seeds on the ground

26 HIDDEN HISTORY The M. & St. L. Train depot provides a peek into Aberdeen's past

32 AND NOW FOR THE WEATHER We take a closer look at Aberdeen’s National Weather Service

28 FRIENDS FUR-EVER K-9 Kindergarten is the ultimate learning and bonding experience for you and your dog

36 IN THE BACK Where are we now?

Any personal information, email addresses, or contact submitted to the editorial office or online via our Facebook page will not be sold or distributed. Aberdeen Magazine does wish to publish public comments and attitudes regarding Aberdeen, therefore written submissions and comments on our Facebook page implies permission to utilize said information in editorial content. Aberdeen Magazine is produced exclusively in Aberdeen, South Dakota. All content is copyright with all rights reserved. No content may be shared, copied, scanned, or posted online without permission. Please just ask us first. We’re pretty flexible.

McQuillen Creative Group www.mcquillencreative.com

MARCH/APRIL 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

FROM THE

Editor MARCH COMES IN LIKE A LION

N MIDDLE SCHOOL, our class took a field trip to the National Weather Service, and I decided right then and there that I was going to be a meteorologist. In my mind, I was already a weather expert — I could name all the different types of clouds and was an avid watcher of Storm Chasers. This was added to my already lengthy list of career goals: author, wildlife photographer, actress, and the first female president of the United States. Unfortunately, it wasn’t long until I found out that predicting the weather required numbers, and the dream quickly died. Chasing tornadoes wasn’t supposed to require math! Even though this particular career path never panned out (I’ve still got a chance at all those others, right?), the study of weather and the science that goes into predicting it never stopped fascinating me. The weather affects nearly every aspect of our lives, and we’d be utterly lost without the forecasts we use to plan ahead and protect ourselves from potential danger. So for this issue of the magazine, I decided to return to Aberdeen’s National Weather Service for the first time in over a decade. In the pages ahead, we’ll delve into the science behind meteorology and learn how our very own weather service operates. Speaking of the weather, the onset of March and April means spring is finally on its way, bringing with it a whole slew of new opportunities. For young athletes, it marks the return of sports such as soccer and even lacrosse, the newest sport on the scene which we dive into in this issue. It also means that dog owners will finally be able to “strut their mutt” during the longer days and (hopefully) warmer temperatures. Before you do, however, consider doing you and your puppy a favor by taking him to K-9 Kindergarten, an experience that’s sure to strengthen the bond between human and dog and help you both walk like pros. In this issue, we’ll also take some time to bask in the nostalgia of the olden days with an in-depth look at the M. & St. L. train depot and Aberdeen’s Virginia Café. To help you relive these glory days, we’ll even teach you how to whip up your very own hot beef combination of Virginia Café fame. As March roars in, breathing its last icy breath before giving way to the blossoms of spring, take some time to look at your community in a new light, and consider getting involved in all the wonderful opportunities Aberdeen has to offer. Spring is symbolically a time for new beginnings, and we’ll be right there with you to show you where to find them.

BECCA SIMON

Managing Editor

THIS ISSUE'S CONTRIBUTORS ERIN BALLARD Erin is a student, writer, and lover of classic rock n’ roll. She comes from Tampa, Florida originally, but has called Aberdeen home for the last three years. She studies Professional Writing and Rhetoric, along with Desktop Publishing, at Northern State University. Anything involving fashion, music, and home décor makes her happy, and someday she hopes to live sustainably on her own farm. DANI DAUGHTERY Dani is the mother and bulk cooking chef for five daughters. She has been called the Native American version of Martha Stewart, but attributes her cooking, plating, and party planning skills to her Lakota grandmother.

PAT GALLAGHER Pat Gallagher chews—and spits—sunflower seeds all over Aberdeen.

TROY MCQUILLEN When it comes to Aberdeen Magazine, Troy wears many hats. In addition to performing the duties of Publisher, Troy provides creative direction, photography and even writes an article every now and then. He makes it look easy!

JENNY ROTH Jenny is a farmer’s wife, stay-at-home mother of three daughters, and writer living in Roscoe, SD. Her essays appear in the parenting magazine Mamalode, www.mamalode.com.

Subscribe online at AberdeenMag.com or send a check for $25 to the address below to guarantee 6 issues of Aberdeen’s community lifestyle magazine shows up in your mailbox! ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

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Try out our recipe for a delicious Hot Beef Combo. page 20

Wedding Day Rental Will Help Make Yours One To Remember IN JUST A FEW MONTHS’ TIME, the snow Wedding Day Rental has you covered for all your wedding desires, including tablecloths, centerpieces, vases, candleholders, and more. will melt, skies will clear and the bells will begin to toll. For weddings, that is. With the season fast change and the store will do transactions online and be picked up three days prior to an event, though approaching, local Wedding Day Rental owner out of Shantel’s home. Making the move will allow Wedding Day Rental does offer delivery and pick-up Shantel Nikolas has everything required to satisfy Shantel to fully focus on the delivery, set-up, and services. Shantel also offers personalization for much even the pickiest couple as they make plans for rental aspects of her business. Before diving into the of her décor and accessories by special request. their big day. Besides having many rentals scheduled for the business of Wedding Day Rental, Shantel had no In October of 2015, three years after her own coming seasons, Shantel will also be decorating professional background in event planning. However, wedding, Shantel opened what is now Wedding an entire wedding ceremony and reception in her attention to detail and drive to please customers Day Rental, an online shop catered to brides-and September. And with over a year of business has lent itself well to a now-thriving rental boutique. grooms-to-be looking to make their wedding as under her belt, Shantel won’t slow down any time special as possible, regardless of budget. With a “I take pride in helping to make the wedding of a soon. “So far it's been a very exciting adventure passion for decorating, planning and organizing, client’s dreams come to life,” Shantel says. and I'm looking forward to where it takes me in Shantel helps her clients through the sometimes- Wedding Day Rental inventory includes the future!” // — ERIN BALLARD stressful journey of wedding decisions by providing tablecloths and runners, plate sets and centerpieces, and vases and candleholders, among scores of other  THOSE INTERESTED IN RENTING INVENTORY, OR rentable décor, linens and accessories. HAVE ANY GENERAL QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PROCESS, Wedding Day Rental originally operated under items. The process is pretty simple. A nonrefundable CAN CONTACT SHANTEL AT 605-380-1082, EMAIL HER AT deposit is due at the time of reservation, and then the name Wedding Day Rental & Consignment in a SHANTELNIKOLAS@WEDDINGDAYABERDEENSD.COM, shop located downtown. As of April 1, the name will Shantel takes care of the rest. Reserved items can OR MESSAGE THE STORE ON FACEBOOK.

Aberdeen’s Pit Crew Row FEBRUARY 1 MARKED THE GRAND opening of Pit Crew Row, Steven Lust Automotive’s new full-service tire and oil change center. Created to meet the needs of busy customers, Pit Crew Row provides a no wait, no appointment “NASCAR fast” option for servicing vehicles. Oil changes as well as tire repairs, rotations, and sales are all offered on a first-come first-served basis. The center can accommodate four vehicles at a time with personnel on staff for each. Service Manager

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

Jim Weaver says they aim to “accommodate their valued customers with fast paced schedules.” The new business also provides a location on the west side of Aberdeen for fast, drop-in vehicle maintenance. // — JENNY ROTH

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Conservation and Education Meet at Sand Lake Wild Life Refuge MIGRATORY BIRDS, RESIDENT WILDLIFE and visitors alike have flocked to the Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge northeast of Aberdeen since its creation in 1935. The refuge sits on 21,500 acres of prairie and marshy wetlands along the James River. This unique ecosystem makes the location an important nesting, feeding, and resting ground for a large number of migratory birds, particularly waterfowl. An abundant variety of animals and birds also call the area home year round, making it an ideal spot to view and learn about wildlife. Staff and crew members at the refuge specialize in wetland and upland habitat management practices, such as creating marshes and rejuvenating grasslands to conserve waterfowl. Deputy Project Leader Jay Petersen says their crew’s footprint in conservation efforts also extends well beyond Sand Lake. In total, they perform wetland management

To get a stunning panoramic view of Sand Lake, adventurous visitors can climb 132 steps to get to the top of the observation tower.

for 45,000 acres in eight different counties from Brown County west to the Missouri River. The refuge is open to visitors during daylight hours. Popular activities include bird and wildlife watching, fishing, hunting, and nature photography. The indoor headquarters features an interactive visitor center filled with educational resources highlighting the wildlife living on site. Those visiting can hike on the walking trails and picnic at the day use area, or if weather permits driving, try their luck identifying different species of birds on the self-guided auto tour. According to Peterson, visitors to the refuge should expect some good wildlife sightings, “Bring binoculars, snacks and water. Once you start seeing things, time is going to get away.” // — JENNY ROTH  FOR MORE INFORMATION AND DIRECTIONS TO SAND LAKE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE VISIT THEIR WEB SITE AT WWW.FWS.GOV/REFUGE/SAND_LAKE/ OR CALL THEIR OFFICE AT 605-885-6320.

The Wolves Memorial Suites and are nearing completion and are expected to open this fall.

students alike. The center will provide collaboration opportunities in science education between Northern students and those at local and regional schools. It will have the benefit of increasing interest in the sciences for area K-12 students, while also enticing them to stay in state, should they choose to pursue a correlating degree in higher education. These buildings are in addition to a dorm currently under construction on the northwest corner of campus. That one has been dubbed Wolves Memorial Suites and is slated to open this coming fall. It will house 150 students and will also be fully air-conditioned, with lounge and meeting rooms as well as kitchens. In an interview earlier this year, President Downs stated that one of his main priorities in his the Board of Regents late last year. President new role would be to maintain and develop the Tim Downs hopes to have both of the new dorms relationship between the school and the community completed by fall 2018, when Jerde Hall will be of Aberdeen. The additions to Northern’s campus torn down as well. The new dorms will be modern, should do just that by making the school a more with updated amenities like suite-style room and inviting and competitive choice for prospective air conditioning, along with multiple study and students, along with creating more opportunities lounge spaces. for those who choose to enroll. “These gifts provide When work wraps up on those buildings, the Northern opportunities to better serve the needs Regional Science Education Center will begin of current and future students,” Downs said in construction on what is currently the football a recent release on Northern’s official website. practice field, near the corner of State Street “We believe these changes on campus will greatly and 12th Avenue Southeast. The modern facility assist us with the increase of enrollments as well will act as a gateway to campus for visitors and as student retention.” // — ERIN BALLARD

NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY WILL BE seeing a lot of growth in the next few years, and as a result, so should the city of Aberdeen. In 2016, Northern received two anonymous donations that combined to a total of $35 million. $20 million of that will go towards two new residence halls and the remaining will fund a new Regional Science Education Center, all of which will work to upgrade the campus and, hopefully, bring in more students to the school. After the spring 2017 semester, Lindberg Hall will be shut down and razed in order to make room for one of the two dorms that were approved by

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

Photos by Troy McQuillen

The Future Looks Bright For Northern

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MARCH/APRIL 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

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Downtown Décor Visions of Vintage

BY ERIN BALLARD

HAT BEGAN AS A REASON to provide a beloved brand of paint products to the Aberdeen community turned into something much more in the basement space of Karisma. As it turned out, acquiring and selling Annie Sloan chalk paint was only the beginning for Nichole Heinz, sole owner of Lost and Found Occasionals, a small shop that features handmade, vintage and vintage-inspired décor and gifts, as well as chalk paint classes and workshops. Since August 2016, Nichole has been juggling being a first-time business owner with being a full-time mom, and she doesn’t plan to slow down any time soon. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s fun,” she laughs. “It’s so exciting to create things and be able to sell them.” Some of the items that you might find on any given day at Lost and Found Occasionals include “57401” burlap throw pillows, decorative metal

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

baskets, hand-painted signs, and lots of greenery, to name only a few. Anything that could be described as farmhouse décor either already has or soon will find a home at the shop. But if you’re looking to make a purchase, you better move fast. Not only are many items at the store one-of-a-kind, but Nichole also rotates her inventory quite frequently. These are some of the things that make her shop such a unique experience; you might not see the same thing twice, ever. While Nichole personally makes a lot of the items she sells, she’s also in charge of everything else that it takes to run the store, including wholesaling items and staging, the latter of which is one of her favorite parts of the job. “I think that people anticipate the visual aspect of things in the store. [Recently] we had this big reset and I built new structures for staging and redid the whole thing,” she explains. “So I think it’s an experience too, to just come down and look at everything.”

When customers “come down,” it’s from Karisma, the upstairs clothing store owned by Melissa Larson. It was Melissa who invited Nichole to move into the basement, and it’s a decision that both businesses have benefited from. “We work together as a team to create a one-stop-shop experience for people,” Nichole explains. “It’s awesome and it’s so fun… to be able to grab a glass of wine upstairs and come down here and do a painted class, or come down here and shop. It’s just ideal. They go hand in hand together.” Nichole credits the foot traffic from Karisma as one of the best perks of Lost and Found Occasionals’ location, though just being downtown and having the support of other business owners has been equally important to her success. “It takes a village, it really does,” she says, smiling. “In the beginning, I thought I could do it all myself, but you can’t, it’s just not possible.” Of course, it goes both ways. When new businesses open up downtown, Nichole is quick to lend a helping hand. “I think it’s so important to provide support; even just participating by donating a gift card to be given away, or sharing their posts on Facebook. I’ve lived in different cities and communities with thriving downtowns that you can spend all day at. I can see that happening in Aberdeen. It’s just going to take one step at a time, one person at a time,” she says. In the future, Nichole hopes to get even more involved in downtown and community events. That might include organizing a festival of sorts that would feature items similar to what she sells now from vendors all over the state. For now, her focus is mainly on keeping the store as full and ever-changing as possible in order to keep those “oohs” and “ahhs” coming from customers first walking through the entryway. And seeing as the shop allows a muchneeded creative outlet in her busy life, Nichole only expects progress for Lost and Found Occasionals. “It’s amazing how much it’s changed since I first started. I’ve already learned so much just in six months,” she says. “I anticipate more growth and changes as I’m growing and changing myself.” // 

LOST AND FOUND OCCASIONALS IS OPEN 4:00 – 7:00 PM THURSDAYS, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM FRIDAYS AND 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM SATURDAYS DURING THE WINTER. IT WILL STAY OPEN UNTIL 7:00 PM SATURDAYS COME SPRING. TO SEE THEIR NEWEST INVENTORY AND SCHEDULE OF EVENTS, FOLLOW THEM ON FACEBOOK OR INSTAGRAM, OR STOP BY AT THEIR LOCATION ON 305 S. MAIN ST.

Photos by Troy McQuillen

Shop owner Nichole Heinz shows off an array of greenery and garden décor. She can help you spruce up your home with a wide variety of unique, handmade vintage-inspired items..

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MARCH/APRIL 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

HUB | CALENDAR

MARCH & APRIL MARCH

4 MARCH

7 MARCH

25 MARCH

25 APRIL

1 12

APRIL

TENORE WHEN: April 3, 7:30 – 10:00 PM WHERE: Johnson Fine Arts Center COST: $30 adult, $8 student Come listen to this tremendous tenor trio that specializes in powerful vocals, draws together multiple cultures, and invites you to sing along in this “powerful concert experience!”

ABERDEEN HOME BUILDERS 16TH ANNUAL HOME SHOW WHEN: March 4 – March 5, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM WHERE: Holum Expo Bldg/Brown Co Fairgrounds COST: Free Are you in the process of remodeling your home or aspiring to build your own home? The AHBA has you covered with this event offering all kinds of helpful products and services related to home construction, remodeling, décor, furnishings, and much more.

WOMEN IN SCIENCE KEYNOTE SPEAKER STEPHANIE ARNIE WHEN: March 7, 7:00 PM WHERE: Johnson Fine Arts Center COST: Free Come listen to Stephanie Arnie of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom as she delivers her keynote address at the Women in Science conference. Stephanie is a Pierre native, and has been recognized internationally for her work with wildlife in the US and around the world.

APRIL

6 APRIL

RONCALLI BALL WHEN: March 25, 5:00 PM WHERE: Ramkota Hotel COST: $75 Grab your best dress and come out for a night of fantastic food, entertainment, and auctions at Roncalli’s biggest fundraising event of the year.

ANNUAL ABERDEEN FARM TOYS AND COLLECTIBLES SHOW WHEN: March 25 – March 26, Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM WHERE: Yelduz Shrine Center COST: $3 What’s cooler than farms? That’s easy: tinier farms! Check out a bunch of farm toys, scaled down models of equipment, and many more cool collectibles.

APRIL

SPRING BIG BOY TOY SHOW WHEN: April 1 – April 2, Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM WHERE: Brown County Fairgrounds COST: Free It’s all big here: big boats, big docks, big campers, and much more.

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

DINNER IN THE DARK WHEN: April 6, 5:30 – 8:00 PM WHERE: Ramkota Convention Center COST: $35 Treat your taste buds to a mouth-watering dinner. There’s only one catch: you have to eat while blindfolded! All proceeds go towards the SD Foundation for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL 2017 WHEN: April 8, VIP Event: 5:00 PM, Grand Event: 6:30 – 10:00 PM WHERE: Ward Plaza COST: Grand Event: $65 each or 2 for $100, VIP Event: $100 each Release your inner wine critic as you sample more than 100 wines from across the country, as well a fantastic selection of craft beers and spirits and a variety of cheeses and hors d’ oeuvres.

YELDUZ SHRINE CIRCUS WHEN: April 13 – April 15, Thursday, Friday: 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM WHERE: Aberdeen Civic Arena COST: Adults 14 and up $10 in advance Lions, tigers, and clowns, oh my! Come one, come all to everyone’s favorite 3-ring circus.

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On Target

The Whitetail Bowman Archery Club

BY JENNY ROTH

OR MEMBERS OF THE WHITETAIL Bowman Archery Club, archery is more than a pastime, it’s a part of life. And while learning to shoot with a bow may sound like a task mastered individually, in reality it is a sport that thrives when experienced archers work to teach skills to enthusiastic beginners who are ready to learn. A handful of participants founded the club in 1959, and since then it has grown to include hundreds of archers of all ages. Board of directors member Mark Lemmon explains it best when he describes the natural growth the club has experienced among families in the Aberdeen area, “How a lot of people get involved usually goes one of two ways. Either the dad has been in it and then the kids start to

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

want to try it out, or often times it’s the kids who Division (JOAD) and learn more advanced skills start out in the club and then the parents end up for competitive archery from qualified instructors. joining too because the kids are having so much fun. Lemmon emphasizes the importance the club It’s something a family can really enjoy spending places on working with the kids, “Youth league is time doing together outside or in an afternoon.” what it’s all about. They’re our future.” Lemmon is an archery technician at SoDak Besides lending their expertise and knowledge on Sports and has been shooting competitive archery archery, members have literally built the club from since the early 1980s. He says more and more the ground up with volunteered time and effort. people are becoming interested in archery because They started out with a tract of land and a modest it is a sport that anyone can be good at and also clubhouse northwest of Aberdeen and over the because it teaches a lifelong skill. years turned it into one of the Club member Lisa Kopecky highest ranked archery clubs agrees with Lemmon that in the state with top-notch the sport is extremely family indoor and outdoor ranges orientated. She joined the Youth league is and facilities. The group is able archery club after her three to host various tournaments what it’s all about. sons got involved. “I decided as well as co-ed and women’s as a mom of boys this was They're our future. archery leagues year round. something I could do with them. Newcomers are always My husband is going to join this welcome to attend a league year as well. It has really turned meeting to get advice from into this great family sport.” experienced participants and In addition to being family driven, the club is to try out equipment to see if the sport is a good also focused on its youth programs for members fit for them. Kopecky shares how integral archery between 6-18 years old. Both boys and girls can can become in the lives of people who pick up a shoot in the archery youth league and it is open bow, “It’s a skill my children will take with them the to all levels of experience. This year they have 85 rest of their lives. They can always enjoy hunting young people enrolled in the league so far. During and the outdoors.” // practices all ages work together to help each other  MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE WHITETAIL BOWMAN out. Youth interested in taking the sport to the ARCHERY CLUB CAN BE FOUND ON THEIR WEBSITE AT next level can also join the Junior Olympic Archery WWW.WHITETAILBOWMEN.COM.

Photo by Troy McQuillen

Junior Olympic Archery Division members Emma Wilson, Christina Beusch and Katlyn Kyar draw back their bows in preparation to strike the target.

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HUB | PROFILE

Dean Zahn

n o m i S a c c e B y b 16

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

OR MOCCASIN CREEK COUNTRY CLUB HEAD of all ages can participate in. In addition, he introduced Family Golf Professional Dean Zahn, golf is more than just a Fun Nights for junior golfers and their families and offers free game. It is a never ending challenge as well as a lifestyle family golf clinics. This year, for the first time ever, Moccasin that builds character and creates lifelong friendships. Creek will host the qualifiers for the national Drive, Chip, & Putt Known for his extensive development of the Junior Championship. The national tournament at Augusta National is Golf Program in Aberdeen, Dean’s love of golf has reached far broadcast on national television, and is widely considered as one beyond the fairway and helped to grow the game of golf bigger of the must-watch events of the year for golfers. than it has ever been. Due to his outstanding devotion and leadership in the Since he was young, golf has always been in Dean’s blood. development of junior golf programs, Dean was awarded the His father was a high school golf coach and athletic director, 2016 Youth Development Leader Award in the Minnesota and eventually the director of education for the National Golf PGA section. “To recognize the work we’ve been doing in a Foundation. Although he grew up in various big cities in Oregon, small community in pretty cool,” Dean said. “I was surprised. Florida, and Arizona, Aberdeen was always a big part of his life Our program keeps growing and we seem to be getting more since his dad was a native. When his dad moved back to Aberdeen recognition from bigger groups.” to work as the Head Golf Professional out at Moccasin Creek Dean has no intention of slowing down any time soon. He Country Club and invited Dean to come work with him, Dean hopes to get over 200 kids enrolled in the First Tee program thought he was crazy at first. At the time, he was working as an and expand the PGA Junior League into even more teams that assistant golf pro in Northern California, and couldn’t envision could be split into different leagues, not only in Aberdeen, but himself ever moving to Aberdeen. “But then I started to think, in neighboring communities as well. He also wants to give out maybe I need a change of pace. At the time, I thought I’d be here more, and bigger, scholarships, as well as develop a junior golf tour for three to four years and move on. But 25 years later, I’m still that would allow golfers to here,” Dean laughed. “But compete in tournaments that’s okay. Aberdeen is across the region. But his a great place to raise kids. biggest goal is to eventually After all these years I have develop an indoor practice a passion for this place, facility dedicated to junior golf, and this community.” golf. “We would be able In fact, you could say to really further develop Dean’s involvement at Moccasin Creek Country junior golf and be able to Club was destiny. He do it year-round,” he said. is named after Dean When asked why he Shortridge, the first thought golf was such a ever golf pro to serve at popular sport, Dean said Moccasin Creek. He too it’s because it’s something was a huge supporter of everyone can do. “The junior golf, and is now the thing that’s great about namesake of the Dean golf is that you can play it Shortridge Scholarship, a until the day you die. It’s yearly $500 scholarship for kids in the community that have the game of a lifetime,” Dean explained. “If we can develop been involved in junior golf. these kids to play the game and enjoy it at a young age, they When Dean first came to Moccasin Creek, they had a typical will probably play for the rest of their lives.” junior golf program in which they gave lessons once a week for Over the last five years, junior golf has averaged an 8% growth juniors. Since then, it has grown exponentially. While serving rate every year. Dean thinks a big reason for this is the fact that on the South Dakota Golf Association’s board of directors, he families are finding that its something they can do together. “I helped to start the First Tee, a program that teaches kids life would never have played if my dad didn’t play. We did it as a family.” skills using the game of golf as a vehicle to do it. The First Tee Dean would highly encourage anyone who hasn’t to give golf teaches kids nine core values: respect, confidence, responsibility, a shot. “Anyone can play,” he said. “You can always improve and perseverance, courtesy, judgment, honesty, integrity, and get worse. It’s always up and down. Understand your limitations sportsmanship. After getting it started in Sioux Falls, it was also and learn how to get the ball in the hole. Sometimes that isn’t implemented in Aberdeen. They teach kids to be the best they pretty, but who cares? People forget that what they really want can be by respecting themselves, others, and their surroundings. to do is play and have fun.” Currently, there are over 150 kids enrolled in the program. Junior golf programs cost $50 for the summer, and Moccasin But the First Tee was only the beginning. Dean also helped oversee the startup of the PGA Junior League, which is essentially Creek provides financial assistance for those who may need it. “Little League” for golf, allowing kids to play competitively on “We want to grow golf and make it something that the youth structured teams. Moccasin Creek also offers private, one-on- recognize as a great opportunity,” Dean said. “65,000 rounds one lessons for juniors with any of the golf professionals and of golf are played a year in Aberdeen. A lot of people are playing. hosts the Junior Golf Championship, a two-day event that kids Let’s keep growing it.” //

Photo by Troy McQuillen

The thing that’s great about golf is that you can play it until the day you die. It’s the game of a lifetime.

MARCH/APRIL 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

HUB | UP CLOSE

The Fastest Game on Two Feet Lacrosse takes off in Aberdeen

BY BECCA SIMON

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

of training. “Once you know the proper techniques of cradling, the sky's the limit,” Brad said. In addition, because lacrosse is still so new to the Aberdeen community, it might be especially inviting to those looking to start a brand new sport for the first time. “Everyone is learning,” Bobbi said. “If this is the first year you want to try it, no one else is going to be any better than you. There’s no intimidation, and you don’t have to meet any expectations to try out.” The lacrosse season runs from April until the beginning of June, with preseason practices already in full swing. Right now, Aberdeen Lacrosse accepts kids in third grade and up, and currently has a boy’s varsity and junior varsity team. Brand new this year is the addition of a girls’ team. In addition, Brad and Bobbi are very excited to host a college lacrosse jamboree on March 4, in which SDSU, UND, St. Olaf and the University of Iowa will play several games at the PC Dome. After the games, the college players will be hosting a youth clinic. Brad and Bobbi highly encourage anyone who might be curious about lacrosse to come out and give it a try. “We’re all at the beginning stage of this,” Brad said. “Let’s break down that wall of intimidation and say, ‘Hey, we’re all learning.’ For the last two years, our theme has been groundbreaking. We’re all starting at square one.” //

Photos by Troy McQuillen

OR THE PAST FEW YEARS IN Aberdeen, kids have been speeding across the field in protective gear, brandishing long sticks while partaking in the high-speed game of lacrosse. This will be the Aberdeen Lacrosse club’s third year in action, and it is expected to be biggest year yet. The club started as part of a series of pilot programs meant to jumpstart lacrosse in South Dakota. After the program’s first year in Aberdeen, coaches Brad and Bobbi Burdette decided to form their own association. Although they started with only 20 players in their first year, that number doubled to 40 in their second, and they are expecting to grow those numbers even more for the spring 2017 season. Because lacrosse is a spring sport, it provides the perfect opportunity for hockey and basketball players to stay on their feet during the offseason. In fact, many aspects of all these sports are quite similar. “A lot of our plays we use on the offensive side of the field are similar to what you might see in basketball, along with the speed of hockey,” Brad explained. “It’s definitely a fun sport.” In fact, lacrosse was actually the very first sport ever practiced in North America. Native Americans, who would often use the game as an alternative to war with other tribes, invented the game, which at first took place over several days on huge expanses of land. The object of the game is simple: get the ball into the opponent's net, using only a stick to catch, cradle, and pass it. While this may sound difficult, Brad and Bobbi are confident that anyone can pick it up after a little bit



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Bobbi and Brad Burdette coach the pre-season practices for the girls’ and boys’ teams, respectively.

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MARCH/APRIL 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

HUB | RECIPE

hot beef combination

The definition of comfort food

BY TROY MCQUILLEN AND DANI DAUGHERTY

Photo by Troy McQuillen

HIS STORY AND RECIPE WAS inspired by the Facebook group, You Know You’re From Aberdeen If…. Several of the historic pictures that I restored and posted often pop up on this group. I love to watch the comments flow from all around the world as people are reminded of nostalgic places and people around Aberdeen. There are two particular restaurants that always seem to capture tons of comments when they pop up. One is Lu’s Pizza, the other is the Virginia Café. Any time the Virginia Café is mentioned, comments about their Hot Beef Combination spring up. I find it humorous that the memory of this dish is remembered differently by some, inspiring others to quickly correct them. A whitebread, roast beef sandwich served with mashed potatoes and covered in gravy reflects the memory of most, so that’s what we made.

Why do you need a recipe in a magazine to teach you how to make a white bread, roast beef sandwich served with mashed potatoes and covered in gravy? Good question. If you think about a diner or café, they would have huge chunks of roast beef slow braising and constantly make mashed potatoes and gravy for a variety of menu options. And if you go to the trouble to make a pot roast, do you really want to instantly convert it to a “left-over” type meal? After making this, I would vote every time to skip the lovely pot roast dinner and go straight to the Hot Beef Combo.

I don’t like to make meals from packages, so gravy mixes and cornstarch were out (one comment specifically said the Virginia did not use cornstarch), nor do I like to buy stock or broth. But, feel free to use beef stock/broth in this recipe and you should be fine. If you want to make beef stock, locate a recipe and go for it. I don’t have enough space here to get into it. I like mashed potatoes to be just that, mashed potatoes. Make it however you like, but keep it simple. Our lovely white bread came from Palm Garden, but any white bread will work. //

recipe • 1 tbsp canola oil • 3-4 lb Beef Arm Roast • 4 cups beef stock/broth

SERVES 4-6

• 1 tsp Garlic Powder • 1 tsp Onion Powder • 1 tsp Celery Salt

|Directions| In a skillet, heat the oil then add the roast. Sear on all sides to develop a nice crust. Meanwhile, in a large crock-pot, add garlic powder, onion powder and celery salt and stock/broth. Turn to high. When the searing is done, add the roast and cook on high for one hour, then turn to low and cook for six more hours. Test to see if the beef easily separates or shreds, if it does, take it out, try to keep it in one piece, set a side to cool. Carefully strain the stock liquid into a large bowl, let cool, then place in the refrigerator over night. Wrap up the beef foil and place it in the fridge over night as well. When preparing for your meal, make mashed potatoes, take the roast out and slice it about an eighth-inch thick. Take the stock out of the fridge and remove and save the fat cap that has formed on top. Place the sliced meat in a large skillet, add a few tablespoons of yesterday’s stock and simmer on low until it heats through. Get your bread ready.

GRAVY • ¼ cup beef fat from stock • ¼ cup butter • ½ cup flour

• 1 tsp browning sauce • 4 cups reserved stock from roast cooking • Salt and pepper

|Directions| Melt the beef fat and butter in a sauce pan. Add the flour and whisk until the rue turns a tan/golden color. Should take about 20 minutes. Gradually whisk in the stock (I try to avoid adding all the sediment from the bottom of the stock). To amp up the color and add more flavor, add the browning sauce. Continue to stir until it reaches a nice consistency, adding as much stock as needed. Salt and pepper to taste.

SERVING Add a ladle full of gravy to the simmering roast beef to coat all the pieces. Be gentle, or the beef will fall apart. Place two pieces of bread on a cutting board, spoon in a bit of gravy to coat each side (like buttering with gravy), layer on the beef on one side, top the sandwich with the other piece. Cut in half, put on the plate. Add a dollop of mashed potatoes between the halves, then ladle on as much gravy as you can spare. A garnish of chopped parsley is always nice. We’ve never had the privilege of Hot Beef Combinations from the Virginia Café, but it remains a popular dish on many menus around Aberdeen.

Gone But Not Forgotten Aberdeen’s Virginia Café first opened in the original Alonzo Ward Hotel in 1917. After that hotel burned in 1926, the restaurant reopened in its own building at 303 S. Main in 1927. The Cafe was originally started by Greek immigrant, Dan Cacavas who eventually sold it to his cousins, Chris and Harry Cacavas in 1948. Harry operated the cafe until 1963. He sold it to Virginia Amundson, who, after five years, sold it to Bud and Marion Gallipo in 1968. They lost their lease to the Feinstein family in 1978 and planned to reopen in another location. Unfortunately, Bud passed away unexpectedly and the legend of the Virginia Café ended. But who was Virginia? That question has been asked repeatedly on Facebook and no one seems to know. The most recent owner, Marion Gallipo, may have the answer. She said that Harry Cacavas told her that many Greek immigrants started restaurants all across the county. To advertise their Greek heritage to other Greeks, and those that knew, the name Virginia Café was used on many of them. In fact, online searches reveal that there are a few still open and they were indeed started by Greeks. I found evidence of a Virginia Café in both Rapid City and Sioux Falls. They weren’t franchises, just a common name to acknowledge their Greek origins. Harry told Marion that Virginia meant hope to the Greeks. I've found no evidence of that as of yet. Perhaps it stemmed from the fact they were hopeful immigrants. I’m still looking into that.— TROY MCQUILLEN

Top: Virginia Cafe in Aberdeen, South Dakota circa 1960. Middle: Second café owners, Harry and Barbara Cacavas circa 1960. Notice the beautiful dark wood booths. Photo provided by Vivian Kaul Likness Bottom: A vintage menu on display at Gold N’ Gems, the business now occupying the Virginia Café building.

MARCH/APRIL 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

HUB | UP CLOSE

The new sign has a unique vintage appeal.

All That Glitters

Gold N’ Gems is a collector’s paradise

BY BECCA SIMON

HAT MAY BE ONE MAN’S TRASH IS ANOTHER man’s treasure. For the folks at Gold N’ Gems located at 303 S. Main, this old idiom is the philosophy that fuels their business. From money, trade beads, to war militaria, they are all about preserving the past and making old new again. They have a little something for everyone, from people looking to fill their homes with vintage furniture to investors who want to diversify their money into gold and silver. Owners Cheryl Nelson and Andy Heinze initially started the business for investors, seeing the many

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

benefits of investing in precious metals. Unlike other paper investments, people have more control over gold and can cash it whenever they see fit. “It also makes awesome gifts,” Cheryl explained. “I get all my grandchildren started in it by buying them two ounces a year. Toys break. They outgrow clothes. But this is investing in their future.” However, it wasn’t long until they met Dale Fliehs, a collector of war memorabilia that has helped transform Gold N’ Gems into the diverse business it is today. Dale collects US and foreign militaria, including field gear, edged weapons, firearms, uniforms, flags, and more. He has collected objects from as early as the Revolutionary War and is constantly looking to expand his collection. Oftentimes, people will come into the store looking for things from World War I or World War II since they had family involved. One look around the store, and you will see all kinds of unique items from bygone eras: a 1890 NCO non-commissioned officer’s helmet, Civil War swords, knuckle knives from WWI, and Buddhist prayer flags, just to scratch the surface. Some of the rarest guns have sold for over $4,000.

But war militaria aren’t the only artifacts worth a substantial sum of money. Any old artifact can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on its rarity. Gold N’ Gems gets many of their items from estate sales. Most of the time, people have no idea how much money their things are worth. A koi fish brooch, crafted to resemble faux coral on gilded brass metal in the early 1900s, sold for $500 due to its rarity and popularity. The famed Neiger Brothers of the Czech Republic, prolific designers who were killed at Auschwitz in 1942, made the brooch. However, the family that owned it knew nothing of its history or its value. The same is true of old currency. A $20 bill, minted at the First National Bank of Groton, South Dakota in 1902 sold for $3,000 and a $1 Lincoln Greenback—the only one currently known to exist—sold for $7,500. Andy has just about every coin you could think of and then some, from the first coins the US ever minted to pre-Civil War fractional currency that could still be used as a legal tender even today. “This place is like a walk-through history,” Cheryl said. “People come in here and they don’t just leave in two seconds.” Even if people aren’t interested in collecting or investing, Cheryl also carries vintage jewelry and even designs custom jewelry to fit customer’s tastes. For Cheryl, Andy, and Dale, one of the most enjoyable aspects of running their business is the people they get to work with. “It’s the treasure hunting with the people that come in,” Andy said. “I would say over half do not even know they have something valuable.” //

Photos by Troy McQuillen

Gold N’ Gems will appeal to collectors and history buffs alike. With various war memorabilia and militaria from different eras, the shop provides a mini walkthrough history.

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MARCH/APRIL 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

HUB | GALLERY

Local artist Carol Weber Green keeps fairytale magic alive in her artwork

BY BECCA SIMON

PON FIRST STEPPING through the gates of Storybook Land and into the visitor’s center, park-goers are immediately greeted by the friendly faces of nursery rhyme fame adorning the mural on the wall. Right before you embark on your Storybook adventure, another colorful painting above the door illustrates all the fun that waits along the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy and her friends. These murals, as well as several others that bring the visitor’s center to life, came directly from the paintbrush of local artist and Aberdeen native Carol Weber Green. For Carol, fairy tale magic runs in her blood. Her father was a huge proponent to Storybook Land’s success, and filled the park with many of the beloved structures children and adults alike have come to know and love. Following in her father’s footsteps, Carol has devoted much of her life to creating art in the hopes that it will bring a smile to someone’s face. From a young age, Carol had always been

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

interested in creating beautiful things. When her father wasn’t working as a florist at the family business, Weber Floral, he was spending all his time building sculptures out at Storybook Land. Oftentimes, he would enlist Carol to help him paint. Through his handiwork, the shoe, Cinderella, the carriage, the horses, and even Humpty Dumpty came to populate the park. According to Carol, there was nothing he couldn’t make. “He made his own hunting equipment and bows, did his own taxidermy, and taught himself to sew,” Carol recalled. “He taught me not to put boundaries on how creative you allow your mind to be.” Carol took that to heart, and has since created artwork for many people on all different kinds of surfaces. She paints on just about anything she can find, from wood to handmade paper and even eggshells. Currently, Carol spends much of her time painting shoes as a part of collaborative effort between the Artworks Cooperative in the Aberdeen Mall and Bur-Mar’s. People have taken quite

enthusiastically to the hand-painted shoes, and now she frequently receives custom orders, both locally and across the country. In fact, a vast majority of Carol’s work is commissioned. In addition to the murals at Storybook Land, she also illustrated several large murals for Sanford Children’s Hospital, the Angel House in Aberdeen, and even in people’s private homes. Carol says she enjoys doing commission work because it poses a never-ending challenge that allows her to learn something new each time. “I have to learn to make things that other people have in their minds,” she said. “I usually have to do lots of research ahead of time, and there’s always something different I have to learn.” However, painting for others is more than just a task to be completed for Carol. “I love to paint, and I like selling my paintings so I can make more. I want to express beauty in everything I create, to make things that are positive and make you feel good to look at.” Although Carol has never had one specific focus in her art, in the future she hopes to work more extensively with religious themes in various mixed media. In everything she creates, she remembers the wisdom her parents imparted to her by example. “They taught me to make things as well as I possibly can. Creating art never gets tiring to me.” //

Photo of Carol by Troy McQuillen

Works OF Heart

Carol Weber Green poses by her largest mural at Storybook Land. Her artwork covers the walls of the Visitor’s Center.

LOCAL GALLERIES Wein Gallery Presentation College 1500 North Main Street 605-229-8350 Mon-Thurs 8 AM-9 PM, Fri 8 AM-5 PM, and Sun 1-9 PM President’s Gallery, Lincoln Gallery and Student Center Gallery Northern State University 1200 South Jay Street 605-626-7766 President’s Gallery: Mon-Fri 8 AM-10 PM, Lincoln Gallery: Mon-Fri 8 AM-5 PM, Student Center: Mon-Fri 7 AM-11 PM and weekends 1-9 PM Lamont Gallery Dacotah Prairie Museum 21 South Main Street 605-626-7117 Tues-Fri 9 AM-5 PM, Sat and Sun 1-4 PM Artworks Co-op Gallery Lakewood Mall 3315 6th Ave SE Suite #48 605-725-0913 Thurs-Sun 12-6 PM or by appointment Jane West Gallery Capitol Theatre 415 South Main Street 605-225-2228 Open during events, call ahead for additional hours of operation ARCC Gallery Aberdeen Recreation and Cultural Center 225 3rd Ave SE 605-626-7081 Mon-Thurs 9 AM-8 PM, Fri 9 AM-5 PM and Sat 10 AM-12 PM

Carol primarily uses acrylics to paint lively, whimsical wildlife scenes on all different kinds of surfaces.

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MARCH/APRIL 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

A B E R D E E N | Y E S T E R DAY S

Hidden History The story of Aberdeen’s first and last depot

HE LAST TO ARRIVE, THE FIRST to leave. This was emblazoned on an Aberdeen News front page six decades ago, referring to the Minneapolis and St. Louis railroad company. The line always had something to prove, as did its depot, as it was and is habitually shadowed by the larger, better known depot on North Main. Some know it as it stands today: a remodeled CO-OP Architecture building full of offices. Others associate it with the booming Hub City of yesteryear; a simple reminder of Aberdeen's booming beginnings. Still fewer remember it as a nighttime hotspot for young college students experiencing their first real taste of freedom. An oft-forgotten neoclassical structure completed shortly after its rails began construction, the depot on South Main has a rich and enduring history that not even a lot of life-time Aberdeenonians are aware of. The M. & St. L. Aberdeen depot opened on September 1, 1907 pulling Pullman sleeping cars, baggage, mail cars, and one passenger car. The train left Aberdeen at 8:15 PM and arrived in Minneapolis exactly 10 hours and 55 minutes later.

BY ERIN BALLARD

The line was developed in direct response to a local need. One newspaper article from 1906 claimed the year was on track to be the biggest in history of immigration into the state. The small line began originally as a way to connect the Twin Cities with Peoria, Illinois. Branches were eventually added to Iowa and South Dakota, and then through Aberdeen, 25 years after the Chicago Milwaukee. It cost the company $55,000 to enter the city just west of the current Northern State University, where its depot still stands today, at the southwest corner of 11th Street and South Main Street. The automatic tracklayer began to connect the line that began in Conde in November of 1906 to dozens of eager local onlookers. The Aberdeen stop had a depot, roundhouse, and car repair shop, and together they competed vigorously with the larger Chicago Milwaukee line. Can you picture it now? Oak veneer finishes, brass plates, painted plaster ceiling squares made by the Architects Decorating Company of Chicago. Red and white checkered floors on which anxious travelers and excited welcomers alike paced back and forth in anticipation. “A distinction for the

city,” read the newspaper, “the finest in the state.” With its lobby and ticket office, three waiting areas, toilet rooms and a large section for baggage, the M. & St. L. Aberdeen depot truly was full of cutting edge technology. In fact, the railroad might not get the credit its due. Though it was the shortest-lived railroad in Aberdeen, the depot was deemed historically significant and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1969. Because of its line, many towns near us today exist: Florence, Wallace and Stratford, to name a few. Home seeker specials on rates encouraged new settlers to make the move to South Dakota, with round trips for a low price of $15. Still, this wasn’t enough to save the railroad — or its depot — and it would send its last passenger trains in 1949, nearly 50 years after its first. Hauling only freight, it was put up for auction 42 times in the early ’40s with no bidders, and little by little the line was abandoned. The Chicago Northwestern railroad bought it in 1960 and began to lease the depot out to local businesses. Less than a decade

Photo provided by Mike Wiese

When the M. & St. L. depot opened in 1907 at the southwest corner of 11th Street and South Main Street, it was one of the best of its time.

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

Although the depot sent its last passenger trains out in 1949, the building became The Depot Club in 1968, a popular bar for young people to meet and have fun.

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later, it was sold to private investors, which is when brothers Ray and Raeph Mak took over. In 1968, under Mack ownership, the long-unused depot building became The Depot Club, a nightspot still revered with a quality of nostalgia reminiscent of “the good ol’ days” by all those who tell its story. From the moment it opened, the Depot Club was a wild and crazy place that filled up early and stayed packed late. With rock n’ roll music performed by local bands rattling the building every night, the bar was primarily a place for young people to meet and dance the night away. Beer was sold by the pitcher, and everyone came to party. Some of this is according to Aberdeen Mayor Mike Levsen, who personally experienced the glory days of the Depot Club on South Main. “For young people who wanted to meet people of the opposite sex, the Depot was it,” he explains with a laugh. Of all the bars at the corner of 11th and Main back then, the Depot was by far the most popular for students. Rain or shine, it was always a good time. “There were times when there would be blizzards and school would close, and yet the students would fight their way through the snow and spend the whole day at the depot,” Mayor Levsen says, remembering how students carved paths through the snow in order to make it through campus and to the bar. “So after that happened a few times, the school just stopped calling off classes. They said if they can find a way to the Depot, they can find a way to class.” Most every student at Northern was able to enjoy nights at the Depot around the late ’60s. This was back when the drinking age was 19 and 3.2 beers made their debut. As Mayor Levsen explains it, “Imagine any of the bars you have now and then add in freshmen and sophomores.” The Depot Club was at its height around the time of the Vietnam War. Students enrolled full time did not have to join the effort overseas, so Northern saw a huge increase in

student population. The Depot became a haven for students at this time of change and turmoil in the United States. In fact, Mayor Levsen got the news of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination while he was at the Depot. “It was in the middle of the Vietnam war protests, in the middle of the civil rights movement,” he remembers. “It was all during that time, it was really a time of young people valuing their freedom to express themselves.” Whether it was because of those liberal, changing times, or simply due to the lasting effect the club had on young people, we’ll never know, but the Depot Club made a permanent mark. On April 21-22, the Depot Club will be inducted into the South Dakota Rock and Roll Music Association’s Hall of Fame in Sioux Falls. But like all good things that must come to an end, the depot building ran its course as a nightclub. As to when exactly it closed down, Mayor Levsen couldn’t quite recall, saying with a laugh, “You know, I don’t know, I got married.” After a few years, the original Depot Club would become other bars, none as successful as the first. The Station House, The Dance Machine and The Rail Station would all have short lifespans, because by 1980, all club activity had stopped. After a decade of vacancy, the building was leased out again for business purposes. A remodel in the last five years updated the inside, leaving only the exterior as a clue as to what the building once might have been. Though it’s no longer a nightlife hotspot, nor a bustling travel hub, the depot remains a significant landmark in Aberdeen. Today, the M. & St. L. depot stands as a reminder of what our town once was and as a pillar to the test of time, just as we are. A reporter back in 1907 said it best: “Altogether the depot will be one of the most imposing buildings in this part of the state and when it is finished, will give the south end of Main Street a distinction that will impress strangers entering the city from the south and all who come in over the M. & St. L.” //

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MARCH/APRIL 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

FEATURE

Friends ever

Patsy Brosz practices loose leash walking with Ginger, a ninemonth old English Springer. This is one of the first subjects covered in K-9 Kindergarten.

K-9 Kindergarten is the ultimate learning and bonding experience for you and your dog BY BECCA SIMON PHOTOS BY TROY MCQUILLEN

s you walk into the K-9 Obedience course at understands just how important it is to treat your meeting other dogs is a good thing. the ARCC, you are immediately greeted by dog well. K-9 Kindergarten is training for the “They get up and sniff the first a flurry of spry puppies of all shapes and sizes. handler just as much as it is for the dog. Patsy pup, kind of like the waltz,” she They romp throughout the room, introducing provides owners with the tools to raise a better, said. “Sniff two, three… sniff two, themselves to their furry classmates in happier dog, but it’s ultimately up to the owner to three… until they’ve sniffed the form of a friendly sniff put them to use. For Patsy, there all the puppies.” They also do to the behind, trip over is no greater joy than seeing people another exercise called Pass “It’s really that want to succeed with their dog. Your Puppy, in which owners their own paws, and lick your face when you stoop down to introduce turned into a In fact, Patsy got into the dog- exchange leashes with the person yourself. Some of the more timid training scene because she was across from them to stress the students hide behind their owner’s labor of love” once in the same shoes as the importance of treating other feet, venturing a shy sniff anytime people currently attending her dogs the way you’d want your a fellow dog goes up to meet them. After a while, course. After taking her first German shepherd, own to be treated. when the dogs have begun to quiet down and their Greta, to the only obedience course in town at For dogs that may be on owners have taken their seats, instructor Patsy the time, she was shocked by how quickly her the shyer side, Patsy advises Brosz opens with a sobering question: “The dog you puppy was able to learn. She often helped out bringing their favorite treats have here tonight would most during the classes, and it wasn’t long until the and sitting with them and likely, without even thinking ARCC contacted her about teaching her own petting them for 10-15 about it, throw himself in class. While hesitant at first, she decided to take minutes and then going front of danger and give his the plunge, and has been leading K-9 Kindergarten home. “Let them know this life for you. How many of for 12 years since. “It’s really turned into a labor is a good thing. I got treats, us here today would return of love,” Patsy recalled fondly. I got petted, and then we that phenomenal favor to Although advertised as an obedience course, went home. Socializing their dogs?” the class is really about introducing puppies to and desensitizing is one of While this may be a the other dogs and people that inhabit their the most important things difficult question, Patsy starts world. At the beginning of class, they do a meet you can do for your dog.” her class this way so everyone and greet exercise to help the puppies know that If dogs aren’t socialized,

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

Patsy helps Cathy and Geoff Durst pick out a leash for Jama, her mini golden doodle.

Otis the Boxer gets suited up to practice walking.

Tom Bowen has treats at the ready for Heidi, his two-year old German shepherd.

Patsy warns, more often than not, the dog will be a bit dicey or cagey around other dogs. “They’re scared,” she said. “If a dog isn’t used to being around other dogs, it might act like its aggressive, but its not. The majority of bites that are delivered are fear based.” The other primary focus of K-9 kindergarten is communication and how to read body language. While dogs not may speak English, Patsy emphasizes that there doesn’t have to be a language barrier if we know what to look for and learn to communicate properly. “There are things your dog does that shows you she knows what you want, and you know what she wants,” Patsy explained, describing this intuition as a kind of sixth-sense. “It’s almost like telepathy. They can

tell what you’re thinking. If you’re sitting in a chair reading the American News, and you see your puppy come trotting down the hall with your new purple suede shoes, you might be a little angry. You don’t say anything, you just look at that puppy, lean forward in your chair, and that puppy is gone.” In addition to body language, dogs also understand the intonation of your voice. “I took Greta up to Brentwood Colony and I said, ‘Do you think she knows German because she’s a German shepherd?’ So I said, Greta, ‘Sitz.’ And she plopped down. They can tell the difference in your voice.” To help her class understand body language, Patsy gives them a list of red flags that they want to avoid, including lunging, growling, and bracing. Instead, she encourages green flags, in which the puppy goes up to another dog and

play bows, meaning they are inviting that dog to play. “Look at the ears, oftentimes dogs will lay them back real sweetly. Look at their eyes, their mouth, and their body. How are they walking, are they all wiggly? Is the tail wagging?” They also look for orange flags. If a puppy hides behind their owner, it is called deference or avoidance. If an owner doesn’t pay attention to their dog’s body language, especially while walking their dog, fights can break out. “Watch what those dogs are doing and let them sniff each other. Sniffing the butt is the Emily Post of good manners.” When asked what a typical day in K-9 Kindergarten is like, Patsy said with a laugh: “Barking.” After having owners walk their dogs around for a while, they begin with the obedience command they plan to work on that week. They start with loose-leash walking, working to keep a loop in the leash to ensure the dog is staying close, and then move onto the “Sit” and “Down” commands. By about the fourth session, Patsy brings in agility equipment for the dogs to practice with. According to Patsy, the only thing standing in the way from a dog doing well in her class is how much the owner is willing to work with them. If owners are complacent, their dogs aren’t as likely to respond to training. When commanding them, Patsy stresses that it’s important to be firm while still being a loving leader. “Praise them,” she said. “They love hearing your voice.” Because the training is all about positive reinforcement, she suggests taking treats and squeaky balls with you everywhere you ago to reward good behavior and avert potential problems. If people take anything from her class, Patsy hopes that it’s learning how to love and respect their dogs, even more than they did before. “To me, the dog is a whole different human being,” Patsy said. “You have to respect that and not turn that dog away. For example, if your dog is chewing your shoes, put them up. Puppies learn their world by chewing and tasting. If your dog has an accident in the house, it’s not the dog’s fault. You weren’t paying any attention. When you take a puppy and grab it by the scruff of the neck and shove its nose in the poop pile, you are punishing it for doing something that comes naturally. Would you do that to a child?” Patsy would highly encourage everyone who has a puppy to attend to her class. Not only is it an educational experience, but it’s also something for owners to do together with their dogs. K-9 Kindergarten has two six week sessions that last one hour a week. Saturday classes are from 10:00 to 11:00 AM, and Wednesday classes are from 6:30 to 7:30 PM. The class costs $75 plus tax, a rate that is nearly $100 cheaper than classes in other cities. In her last class, Patsy hands out a sheet of paper to everyone in her class filled with thoughts she hopes everyone takes into heart, and she tells them: “Never, ever surrender your dog. Your dog would never surrender you.” // MARCH/APRIL 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

STRAIGHT TALK

Seeds of Spring The first sign of spring is the arrival of sunflower seeds on the ground BY PATRICK GALLAGHER

PRING IS UPON US. IT’S EASY to tell. It’s not the return of robins, leaves, or longer days. Not pot holes or mud. The real first sign of spring is the arrival of shelled sunflower seeds on the ground. It’s a sign that male seed-eating humans have come out of winter hibernation. They’re easy to spot. I’m one. For me, seeds were always a good weather treat, something you ate when you could be outside. I’m not sure I ever ate them inside growing up — I was wise enough to know I couldn’t spit them just anywhere, but outside I could spit them everywhere — although spitting them out of a moving car window usually backfired. As a kid, I loved to walk to the little grocery store with one or two pop bottles, get the deposit on them, and buy some Fisher sunflower seeds. Those small wax paper packages were an icon of my youth, and they sometimes stayed in my pocket for days. I could buy them at the baseball concession stand and the golf course and I could take them to the lake or the keger. I've eaten sunflower seeds for about 50 years, learning early as a South Dakota boy how to shell a mouthful as opposed to a seed at a time

(One at a time? Really? You might as well drink company; they one beer. Lifting one seed at a time to your mouth, kept the Fisher and, worse, removing each individually with your name, but recently fingers to delicately flick it like something icky? stopped selling seeds How efficient is that? Sad!) The process is really — and they don’t know both art and science and so fluid that it’s hard to anything about the describe — like the beauty of a sunset. I throw a paper packs and seemed a little dozen or so into my mouth and move them into insulted to be asked). Other the pocket between my left cheek and teeth. Then brands cropped up with I maneuver one seed at a time across to my right seasonings and flavors. molar — the tongue is crucial here — rotating it Well, okay, but the so that I can bite down on the edges, which cracks traditional roasted and the shell — preferably audibly (besides seeming salted remains the best. fresher, it sounds so cool!). This releases the seed I had also changed some that, with the agility of an astronaut snatching a while I was away (no, I don’t spacewalking colleague hurtling through the great mean marrying the seed police). void, my tongue catches. And I eat. At the same I developed high blood pressure, so I tried the time, I push the shell remains into the right side of unsalted variety. Once. It’s a chance I’m willing my mouth and, when that cheek achieves critical to take. mass, I spit. Repeat. A breathtakingly complicated I also learned to chew indoors and spit into cups. process yet elegant (ignoring cracked shells and It seemed a little unnatural, but it was the 21st saliva) — and almost completely unconscious. In century. These spittoons worked in the car too, fact, thinking about it might make you stumble. although my eagle-eyed wife still finds remains Interesting how many things can be messed up by around the car — sometimes with an air of disgusted thinking. Like voting. superiority; sometimes a sigh. Moderation is important though, or so I hear. You Being a father, I took on the sacred duty of have to be careful about eating too many. Rotating initiating my sons into the manly Dakota art of seeds to be cracked and moving broken pieces shelling seeds in your mouth. It’s hard to teach. The around can cause little cuts on your tongue, which men in my family have the strange and uncommon get irritated by the salt on the seeds. Little welts ability to wiggle our ears. I repeat, manly. Such skills develop, and your mouth goes dry and raw. But must be handed on somehow, and my boys came the getting there is worth it. into their own. I rediscovered this teen staple when I was in my Fortunately so. When I picked my oldest son up 40s after returning to South Dakota from the from college after freshman year, we started the East Coast. Living in the city, seeds didn’t occur 14-hour drive back in late afternoon, planning to to me as much. I must have gone years between drive overnight. On that trip, my son taught me mouthfuls, then I became reacquainted with a about sunflower seeds’ unadvertised — and not vengeance. I devoured the seeds, and my mouth FDA-approved — magical effect of keeping you and tongue hurt for days, but I returned to seed alert and awake. Doubtful, I nonetheless loaded shape. I also remembered that manners aren’t up on seeds, and it worked for about 12 hours. If I really necessary. Once, however, while watching got tired, I popped some seeds and got recharged. our son at a youth baseball game, I managed to spit Being a man, I was trying to drive straight through some shells that landed on my wife’s by myself. At around 4:00 AM about 20 miles east sandaled feet. (Why was she wearing of Big Stone City, my mouth raw from too many open toes in April anyway? Call the seeds and no water, I couldn’t eat any more, and fashion cops!) Manners are my head nodded. “Dad!” my son yelled, keeping sort of necessary. us out of a swamp. Seeds are lifesavers — not the In the years I was only lesson learned on that trip. away from seeds, they had So stand up for green grass, spring training, and changed. The paper Fisher packs spits. Like every year, sunflower seeds are making disappeared (the old Fisher did America great again — again. Just watch where too, bought out by another you step. //

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FEATURE

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

The Doppler radar stands tall in the front of the National Weather Service. Since 1994, this radar has helped detect weather systems via large pulses of microwave radiation.

An Inside Look at Aberdeen’s National Weather Service BY BECCA SIMON PHOTOS BY TROY MCQUILLEN

“How about this weather?” “Can you believe all this snow we’ve been having? It’s almost spring!” “I hear they’re calling for snow storms all weekend. It sure would be nice to be in Hawaii right now.” Chances are, you’ve used the weather as a talking point to start a conversation more than once in your life. No matter how we conduct our day to day lives, the weather always plays a key role: disrupting travel plans, waking us up in the dead of the night with 60 mph winds, and making us wish we lived a little closer to the equator. Being in an agricultural state makes the weather even more important; we measure rainfall, runoff, and soil moisture. We speculate and agonize over the weather, hoping each season will be kind to us. Every day, we listen to forecasts: on the news, over the radio, and on our phones — and plan accordingly. Accurate weather forecasts can do a lot of things. They can tell a farmer the best time to plant, an airport control tower what information to send to planes as they land and take off, and warn residents of when a blizzard might strike. MARCH/APRIL 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

Naturally, none of this would be possible without the National Weather Service and the people who work around the clock, seven days a week, to provide us with this information. The National Weather Service is a government agency that operates under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Currently, there are 122 offices across the US. Our region’s weather service is located right here in Aberdeen, and covers 28 counties in northeast and central South Dakota, as well as two in west central Minnesota. Their mission is to “provide weather, water, and climate data, forecast and warnings, for the protection of life and property and the enhancement of the national economy.” In order to achieve this goal, the office is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with at least two people on every shift. Since the weather never sleeps, neither do they. Every single day, they gather all the data needed to analyze the weather, including satellite data, radar data, and forecast model data and also employ observers and spotters across the area that take manual observations and report back to them. According to Kelly Serr, warning coordination meteorologist at Aberdeen’s National Weather Service, everyone who works in the office is extremely passionate about what they do, even on days where not much is happening outside. “It can be boring when nothing is going on, and intense when we have lots of severe weather. You kind of run the two extremes in this profession,” she said. Of course, most essential to their ability to make a forecast is the technology they utilize to collect data. Technology is constantly evolving at a rapid rate, and with it, their ability to create accurate forecasts. In order to measure temperature and humidity, a weather balloon is launched twice every day, once at 5:00 AM and at 5:00 PM. Attached to the balloon is a box containing a relative humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, and a GPS that tracks wind speed and direction. The distance the balloon travels provides the weather service with wind speed and direction, and eventually it expands, bursts, and is parachuted to the ground. If people find the balloons, a plastic bag attached to it instructs them to return it the National Weather Service simply by dropping it in the bag and sending it in the mail. Another tried and true tool the weather station employs is the Doppler radar, which has been in use since 1994. Many Aberdonians will recognize it as the large white dome stationed out near the airport. Inside that dome is a huge satellite dish that is constantly moving, sending out large pulses of microwave radiation at various elevations. After sending out a pulse, it waits and listens. If it hits an object, whether that be a storm cloud or even a bird, the energy returns and is processed into the computer systems back at the office. “The bigger the object, the more energy will come back,” Kelly explained. “We can interpret that in many different ways.”

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

Our National Weather Service is just one of 122 offices across the US working underneath NOAA.

The largest hailstone to fall in the US fell in Vivian, SD, and holds the current record for weight and diameter.

But how, exactly, do you make sense of all that data and compile it into a forecast that the general public can understand? According to Kelly, it takes lots and lots of math and educated guesses. All of the data from the radar, satellites, and observers goes through computer systems and is sent into even more powerful computers in Virginia and Florida, where it is converted into mathematical equations that describe the atmosphere and how it will react and change over time. The resulting data that emerges from these equations are weather models. There are hundreds of them, and in order to make an accurate forecast, meteorologists need to understand when certain models will do well and when they won’t. For example, some may produce too much precipitation or the temperature may be off. “We spend most of our days analyzing exactly what it is,” Kelly said. “Our forecast runs out seven days; we’re focusing on making sure we have an accurate forecast for those days.” Creating forecasts is not a solo effort, however. In addition to working together to come to a consensus within the office, our weather service must also communicate with neighboring offices. In the summer, they work with bigger regional offices such as the Storm Prediction Center to make sure their forecasts are as accurate as possible during times when the weather poses the most danger.

“There are groups out there that like to cause mass panic,” Kelly explained. “People grab onto that because we like drama. But when we put out a forecast, we’re never enhancing the facts. We verify our warnings, and we have to call the counties and confirm that what we predicted actually happened. We are held accountable for everything we issue.” In fact, communicating weather to the public in a way where people can take action is one of the most important responsibilities the National Weather Service has. When a big storm is expected, they send out warnings to law enforcement, emergency management, and all the schools in the area. “During the Christmas storm, we had a conference call and invited all of these groups in order to brief them. We’re constantly doing better at getting everyone on the same page and knowing what to expect and prepare for,” Kelly explained. Certainly, we are no strangers to severe weather. In an average year in the United States, there are over 10,000 severe thunderstorm warnings, 5,000 floods, and 1,000 tornadoes. This doesn’t even include hurricanes and winter weather. “We want to issue a warning and communicate to the public that this is a real threat, and they need to take action based on the information we’re giving

Kelly Serr took the time to show us how weather models work and how to read them in order to make a forecast.

The National Weather Service is open 24 hours, 7 days a week and currently employs 22 people.

them,” Kelly said. As time goes on, the weather service is consistently getting better and better at predicting the weather, ensuring that our community is prepared to take the necessary steps to face any kind of weather. Radar is constantly improving and changing, and new satellites will continually be upgraded. A new satellite called GOES16 was just launched. The use of social media has also helped the weather service to stay in touch with the community like never before. “Every year there is something we’ve never seen before, or something that’s really difficult to forecast,” Kelly said. “Last year we had several tornadoes in Day County, but they were really week and low top storms. They were to tough to detect and tough to warn for. If it were easy, we’d be right all the time. But we do a good job. If there’s a big system and it doesn’t go as planned, people often forget how many times it does go as planned.” // MARCH/APRIL 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

IN THE BACK

Where Are We Now?

1. 1124 S. Washington (International Café), 2. South Washington, 3. 9th Avenue SW, 4. N Main Street, 5. N Main Street, 6. 3rd Avenue NE, 7. N Washington Street.

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MARCH/APRIL 2017

Photos by Troy McQuillen

This entry for “Where Are We Now” is a bit different. Instead of asking you to drive around and find these houses, see how many more you can spot in town. I can’t explain why this style of house is so prevalent in Aberdeen, but they are. I suppose it’s no different than the many developments being built with similar homes. There’s efficiency of building more than one of the same thing, and people’s desire usually fuels copy cats. I have intentionally left the addresses off of these as they are all private residences, except one. One is a restaurant. This style of house could be classified as a front-gable, gambrel roofed, Dutch Colonial revival. They were popular from 1895 to 1915 according to my nifty Field Guide to American Houses by Virginia and Lee McAlester (Knopf 2002). Check out the stunning row of them in the upper right corner, complete with columns and porches on North 2nd Street, before the overpass was built. I presume they were torn down or moved. //— TROY MCQUILLEN

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