Aberdeen Magazine May/June 2017 by McQuillen Creative Group

THE ART OF SHOW BUSINESS

WITH BRIAN T. SCHULTZ

COMMUNITY. LIFE. STYLE.

TAKE A WALK ON THE

OF WYLIE PARK

MCQUILLEN CREATIVE GROUP

GET GROWING

WITH OUR BEGINNERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GUIDE TO GARDENING

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MAY/JUNE 2017

ADVANCED SURGICAL CARE

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Contents VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 3 • MAY/JUNE 2017

REGULARS

04 FROM THE EDITOR 06 THE HUB 14 CALENDAR SCENE 16 Women in Science conference 20 Local leaders recognized

44 WHERE ARE WE NOW?

FEATURES

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

THE SHOW MUST GO ON

A FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE

Since he joined ACT in 1996, Brian T. Schultz has been lighting up the stage and inspiring young people across the community to follow their dreams.

A little generosity goes a long way. Learn about how the United Way Foundation helps local organizations fund all kinds of new opportunities.

28 2

SEE YOU AT THE LAKE

WORTH GOBBLING ABOUT

CREATING THE FUTURE

The Aberdeen Aqua Addicts Ski Team is back for another year and ready to blow you out of the water. Bobbi Piasecki shares her love of writing, photography, and her pet turkey. Like tinkering with things and experimenting with technology? CREATE Makerspace is the new hub for inventors and creators of all ages.

30 ONE VERSUS ONE MILLION

Learn how Aberdeen Mosquito Control is working to keep the streets safe from summer’s most annoying pests.

FROM THE GROUND UP

Become a green thumb in no time with our beginner’s guide to gardening from a local guru.

THE WILDS OF WYLIE

The Wylie Park Zoo provides the perfect peek into all the majestic wildlife South Dakota has to offer.

38 FORGOTTEN HISTORY

We explore the rich history of the James River and Tacoma Park – one of the hottest spots in Brown County early in the 20th century.

40 IN THE CROSSHAIRS

BAE Systems has been developing state-of-the-art missile canisters for the US Navy since 1985.

VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 3 • MAY/JUNE 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

Western Corporate Image

SUBMISSIONS

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 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.

ON THE COVER Cheyenne, a buffalo cow, posed for the camera as she came to get her daily helping of fresh produce. Learn more about her and all of the other creatures inhabiting Wylie Park on page 34!

www.mcquillencreative.com

MAY/JUNE 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

FROM THE

Editor Made for Sunny Days

VERY SINGLE TIME I so much as set foot outside during the warmer months, I am immediately assailed by all of the local mosquitoes. It hardly matters what time of day it is or how many layers I’m wearing; where there is a will, there absolutely is a way. I’m not sure whether it’s the sweetness of my blood or merely my irresistible charm, but either way, the lady mosquitoes apparently can’t get enough of me. I may as well be holding up a big red sign that says, “Bite me!!” It’s gotten to the point where I’ve learned to flaunt the bites covering my arms and legs as a hip and trendy summer fashion statement, as crucial to topping off my look as a flashy pair of aviators. Thankfully, however, my mosquito woes do not go unheard. Every year, the Aberdeen Parks & Recreation’s Mosquito Control division steps up to the plate to do battle with the nasty bloodsuckers, drastically decreasing their numbers and making Aberdeen an all around better place to live. And so, we sat down with them to learn their tricks of the trade and also provide you with some useful tips you can use to keep you and your family safe from the tiny vampires. Of course, there’s much more to be excited about in spring and summer in Aberdeen than just the death of mosquitoes. Spring means baby animals — and lots of them. You can see all kinds of cuties right here in the Wylie Park Zoo, from buffalo calves to fawns and even baby llamas. In this issue, we were lucky enough to get up close and personal with the zoo and all of its critters. Warmer weather also brings with it budding trees, green grass, and blooming flowers of all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re thinking of starting your own garden or have been at it for years, we’ve gathered together some helpful tips courtesy of the experienced folks at the Northern State University greenhouse. While we’re busy taking advantage of all Aberdeen has to offer in the present, it can also be nice to slow down to remember summers of the past. In the pages ahead, we explore the rich history of an era gone by in which people would spend lazy summer days lounging on the banks of the James River or dancing into the night at Tacoma Park. As the light lingers longer and the world returns to full bloom, you are bound to encounter an abundance of new adventures in Aberdeen. Get out there and explore to your heart’s content — just don’t forget the DEET.

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. 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.

CORRECTIONS  IN OUR LAST ISSUE, in the article “Works of Heart” about local artist Carol Green, we mistakenly stated that Carol paints shoes as a collaborative effort between the Artworks Cooperative in the Mall and Bur-Mar’s. Carol is actually working independently with Bur-Mar’s, and the Artworks Cooperative is not involved in any way.  WE APOLOGIZE for a couple of errors in an article published in our January/February issue featuring Schwab Audiology. Dr. Elizabeth Falk Schwab received her doctorate in audiology from the University of South Dakota and is proud to be one of the providers of real ear measurements in the area.

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YOU R SO U RCE FO R WHAT’S HA PPENI NG I N ABERDE EN

Photo by Troy McQuillen

A Splash of Creativity

CARLY POCHOP LOVES TO SEE PEOPLE of all ages leaving her art studio feeling empowered by their own creative energy, especially if they had some doubts about their artistic abilities going in. “For many people, especially busy adults, if they haven’t created for a long time, painting or doing anything like that can seem pretty daunting, so it is such a joy to see them find that avenue and get creative again, because it gives them that sense that they can conquer anything.” Carly opened Colorful Creations Art Studio in June, 2015. The space offers several different options for finding your inner artist. The first is their walk-in paint your own pottery studio. Visitors can stop in anytime when the store is open, choose their own piece of pottery, and design and paint it any way they wish. A large variety of pottery pieces like home décor items, dinnerware, and figurines are on hand to pick from. The studio provides all the paint

 Painting parties at Colorful Creations are a great way to get creative with friends and family.

and materials needed to complete the projects and does the glazing and firing of the pottery in-house. Another way to get creative at the studio is to attend one of their monthly canvas painting or wooden board decorating classes. Participants are guided through each class step-by-step and get to take home their finished piece of art. Colorful Creations also hosts customized painting parties, either in studio or traveling, for events ranging from birthday and work parties to BYOB bachelorette parties and date nights. Also on their schedule for this summer are their youth art camps. // — JENNY ROTH 

Putting History at our Fingertips PIECES OF UNITED STATES HISTORY are on display in freedom shrines located throughout Aberdeen. Freedom shrines are simply collections of copies of over 20 significant historical documents such as the Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights, Emancipation Proclamation and many more. Over the years, the Aberdeen Exchange Club has dedicated about 15 of these historical displays to various places throughout town. One of the freedom shrines is at the South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired and has document titles, as well as the entire Gettysburg Address, written in braille. It is the only freedom shrine like it in the entire country. Students at the school are able to read document titles in braille and then access computers to use voice over and screen reader technology to learn more about them. Marje Kaiser, the school’s Superintendent, said having the freedom shrine along with their modern technology puts the historical documents in peoples’ hands. “It helps to give kids the idea that at one point these were real paper documents that someone sat down and created and also helps us to preserve them.” The Aberdeen Exchange Club donated the freedom shrine to the school about eight years ago. Carl Perry, exchange club member, said the organization came up with the idea to include braille on the freedom shrine because they wanted it to have meaning for the students at the school and be something they could participate in. Perry also said the exchange club puts up additional freedom shrines around Aberdeen about every other year. // — JENNY ROTH

COLORFUL CREATIONS ART STUDIO IS OPEN

WEDNESDAY-THURSDAY FROM 12:00-8:00 PM, FRIDAY FROM 12:00-9:00 PM AND SATURDAY FROM 10:00A.M.9:00 PM. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THEIR STUDIO, CLASSES, AND SUMMER ART CAMPS CALL 605-725-CLAY OR VISIT WWW.THECOLORFULCREATIONS.COM.

Courtesy Photo ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

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Business is Blooming OWNER CINDY CARLSON COMBINES extensive experience in the floral industry along with knowledge of current trends when designing flower arrangements at her full service floral shop, Aberdeen Floral, LLC. Customers can stop in to the store, located at 2020 8th Ave NE, or browse

don't miss!

dance recital June 5-6, 7PM johnson fine arts center, $10/ticket

Pre-Ballet/Children's Work Pointe Ballet Classical Jazz Modern Contemporary Musical Theatre Tap Dance Team Irish

their available options by occasion or flower type online at www.aberdeenfloral.com. The shop has flowers for everyday bouquets, weddings, parties, prom and corsages, sympathy bouquets, custom arrangements, and more. On hand for other gift needs are beautiful green and blooming plants as

well as a variety of distinct home décor pieces. They deliver flowers in town and can also ship orders to locations around the world. Carlson’s parents ran a floral business in Watertown for 41 years. She said she grew up playing among the flowers in their greenhouse. “I went to a lot of floral conventions and markets as a child and learned a lot that way. It was fun and something I enjoyed doing.” She later attended Southeast Tech for Floral Culture and worked in different floral businesses around the state until opening Aberdeen Floral in October of 2016. Even with all of her experience in her field, she places a lot of importance on continued learning and adapting new styles in her work. “We are always looking to stay on top of new trends and focusing on continued education so we can keep changing and growing.” She also said the best part about running her business in Aberdeen is all the people she gets to interact with. “Aberdeen has great people in it. Starting this business, I have been blessed by a lot of fantastic clientele that have become friends and family.” // — JENNY ROTH  ABERDEEN FLORAL, LLC IS OPEN FROM 9:00 AM TO 5:00 PM MONDAY-FRIDAY AND SATURDAY FROM 9:00 AM TO 2:00 PM. THEY CAN BE REACHED BY PHONE AT 605-725-4232.

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ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

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Photo by Troy McQuillen

 Cindy Carlson shows off some of the decor pieces in her shop. She provides flesh flowers for every occasion.

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MAY/JUNE 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

BUZZ

THOUGH THEY NEVER INTENDED TO go bridal, that’s exactly what the Fuze is doing today, and doing it well. Devin Oland, co-owner of the almost three-year-old clothing shop in the Aberdeen Mall, got into the family business in 2014, but it wasn’t until a successful first prom season that Oland began getting bridal requests. “I started ordering a few bridesmaid dresses for friends and I ordered a bridal gown for one of my employees and it grew from there. We adapt to our area needs and I think we've found that now,” she wrote by email. The Fuze offers the newest, trendiest selections of wedding dresses, along with dresses for bridesmaids and mothers of the occasion, tuxedo rentals, and hopefully soon, veils and other bridal accessories. Oland sees styles months in advance, and chooses them based on her customer’s desires. “We always try to keep in mind what people ask for and what people want to see when ordering for the next season.” Low to moderate prices, brand selection, and a lay-away program are all some of the things

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ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

Photo courtesy of Devin Oland

Say Yes to the Dress

 The wide variety of wedding attire, including wedding and bridesmaids’ dresses, tuxedos, and more on display at the Fuze is bound to catch your eye.

that Oland feels sets her store apart from other dress shops in town. Additionally, the Fuze operates during mall hours, which is great for customers and for business alike. Window shoppers are welcome to walk in and try on dresses, though the store is not strictly bridal and sees its fair share of busy hours. “We prefer an

appointment so that we have enough staff to help everyone. That way we will have someone set aside to focus on you … and we don't want your time to be interrupted!” // — ERIN BALLARD  TO GET THE LATEST INFORMATION ABOUT WHAT’S IN, VISIT THE FUZE FACEBOOK PAGE OR STOP BY AT 3315 6TH AVE SE, ABERDEEN, SD 57401, NEXT TO HERBERGER’S.

 Relay for Life participants wait in line to begin walking laps around the Expo building.

Up All Night for the Fight

CELEBRATE. REMEMBER. FIGHT BACK. This is the mantra of the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) Relay for Life, a community-based team support event for all those whose lives have been affected by cancer. In more than 5,200 communities and 27 countries around the world, Relay for Life is organized and participated in annually by volunteers. This year’s Brown County relay

will take place Friday, June 2, beginning at 6 PM, at the Fairgrounds and will end the morning of June 3. The event brings the Aberdeen community together each summer to remember loved ones, honor survivors, and support and recognize caregivers. Teams raise money for each lap they walk, in the idea that, because cancer never sleeps, neither will the volunteers for one night. At least one team member must be on the track at all times, no matter how tired, in a gesture of solidarity to all of those fighting the disease. Donations go toward funding groundbreaking cancer research, critical patient care services, and education and preventative initiatives, among many others, according to the website. This year, the opening ceremonies begin at 7 PM in the Expo building, followed by a survivor lap, caregiver ceremony, fight back ceremony and finally, closing ceremonies, which ends the 12 hour relay. And when the night gets long, Rob VanMeter of the Dancing Jukebox will provide tunes, while games like hotdog eating contests, bingo, LipSync Battle, etc., keep volunteers awake. // — ERIN BALLARD  UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION ABOUT THE EVENT CAN BE

FOUND ON THE RELAY FOR LIFE OF BROWN COUNTY SD FACEBOOK PAGE. CONTACT THE BROWN COUNTY RELAY FOR LIFE CO-CHAIRS ALLISON DISBROW, 605-290-0332, OR AMANDA TWETE, 605-228-1072, WITH QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, OR FOR GENERAL INFORMATION. TO REGISTER OR DONATE, VISIT ACSEVENTS.ORG.

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ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

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Courtesy Photo

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W H AT W E T R E AT:

Photo by Troy McQuillen

Summer in the Sun with Arts in the Park IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR SOME FUN in the sun that the whole family can enjoy this summer, look no farther than Aberdeen’s own backyard. In what’s been a weekend of fun, food and entertainment for over 40 years, Arts in the Park returns for its annual stay in Melgaard Park. Held rain or shine, this event features artists and fine craftsmen who produce visual work, arts or crafts of original concept, design, and execution from over 12 states, according to the Aberdeen Area Arts Council website. Last year, over a hundred vendors displayed their hand-crafted pieces and over 15 food booths participated for the weekend. An estimated 20,000 people browse the rows of exhibits each year in June, while enjoying everything from Indian Tacos to pulled pork sandwiches to deep fried mac n’ cheese. With shaved ice stations and old-fashioned root beer for sale, there truly is something for everyone. In 1976, Aberdeen held its very first Arts in the Park with around 3,500 guests. Back then, the formal name was Aberdeen Arts Festival, though it was officially changed to its current and more popular name in 1999. A planning committee made up of volunteers originally organized the festival, but by 1999, the event had been turned over to the Aberdeen Area Arts Council, who still organizes it today. This year, the two-day event will be held the weekend of June 17. The festival will be open from 10 AM to 6 PM Saturday and 10 AM to 5 PM Sunday. A complete list of exhibitors, food booths, and entertainers will be available around the first week of June. // — ERIN BALLARD  FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT THE ABERDEEN AREA ARTS COUNCIL AT 605-226-1557, OR VISIT THEM AT 225 3RD AVE. S.E.

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MAY/JUNE 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

CALENDAR

JUNE

MAY & JUNE MAY

6 MAY

ABERDEEN ABATE/FM CRUSADERS BIKE SHOW AND DANCE WHEN: May 6 - May 7, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM WHERE: Dakota Event Center COST: $5 a day, $12 entire weekend Take a break from riding and come check out a wide variety of vendors carrying leather, ladies products, and new and classic motorcycles at the 23rd Annual Bike Show & Dance. Kids can register from 10-12 on Saturday for the kids pedal bike contest, and guests can enjoy music from Bad Dawg at 9:00 PM on Saturday.

3 JUNE

LIVING LEGENDS DANCE TROUPE WHEN: May 17, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM WHERE: Johnson Fine Arts Center COST: $7 per person, $25 per family (up to 6 people), Tickets sold at The Oil Room and Kessler’s Come celebrate the native heritage of North and South America and the South Pacific with Living Legends, performers of native descent that will bring the rhythms and stories of these cultures to life through song and dance.

JUNE

9 15

27 14

SUMMER KICKOFF PARTY: BARSTOOL PROPHETS WHEN: June 3, 7:00 PM WHERE: Wakeside Bar and Grill COST: Free What better way to start off the summer than with smoked ribs, sausage, and music from the local band Barstool Prophets?

THE IRONMAN WHEN: May 6, 11:00 AM - 11:58 PM WHERE: Moccasin Creek Country Club COST: $40 per member, $65 per non member Put your golf skills to the test at this two-person, 27-hole golf tournament. There will be lots of fun, food, and prizes for all.

JUNE

MAY

GARDEN PLOTTERS PLANT SALE WHEN: June 3, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM WHERE: 911 11th Ave NE COST: Free Green thumbs will love this huge selection of plants directly from Garden Plotters members’ gardens. From annuals to perennials to houseplants, this sale has it all. All proceeds go towards the development of Aberdeen’s Kuhnert Arboretum.

NORTHEAST AREA PARI-MUTUEL HORSE RACING WHEN: May 27 – May 29, 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM WHERE: Brown County Fairgrounds COST: Free Place your bets and come enjoy these quarter horse and thoroughbred horse races held ever year during the last two weekends in May.

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

FAMILY FUN DAY WHEN: June 9 - June 11, all day WHERE: Wylie Park COST: Free Bring the whole family for a weekend of fun, featuring activities such as children’s fishing tournaments, a watermelon feed, Storybook Land Theatre performances, and much more!

ABERDEEN AQUA ADDICTS WATER SKI SHOW WHEN: June 15, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM WHERE: Dahme Lake COST: $4 for adults, $2 for students, children 5 and under free Watch the Aqua Addicts as they perform a variety of high-action water stunts, including barefooting, ski jumping, ballet, swiveling, wakeboarding, and human pyramid building.

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Ingredients

Directions

• Fresh (or frozen) Blueberries • 3/4 Oz Fresh-Squeezed Lemon Juice • 1 Tbsp Brown Sugar • 2 Oz Rum • Ginger Ale

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• • • • •

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SCENE

It Takes A Woman

 Dr. Melissa Brown from Sanford Aberdeen teaches a lesson about Urology, a surgical specialty that deals with diseases of the male and female urinary tract system and male reproductive organs.

Women in Science Conference  April Anderson AA, CST, surgical technology program director at Presentation College, assists with Dr. Brown’s lesson

ON MARCH 7, MIDDLE AND high school girls gathered at NSU to interact with distinguished women in science, technology, math, and engineering fields and learn more about their future career opportunities in science fields. Their keynote speaker this year was Stephanie Arnie from Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom, a Pierre native who shared all about her experiences in STEM careers around the globe. Stephanie encouraged her audience to never give up in achieving their career goals and to try a little bit of everything. “Failure builds character,” she said. “Try, try, try, and always do your research.” // — BECCA SIMON

 A pair of students practice suturing on a pig’s foot as part of Dr. Brown’s urology lesson.

 Dr. Rebecca Rich, audiologist at Aberdeen Hearing & Tinnitus Center, teaches a lesson on audiology.

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

Photos by Troy McQuillen

 Stephanie Arnie speaks to students about her experiences during her Keynote presentation.

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PROFILE

BRIAN T. SCHULTZ directs every show at the Aberdeen Community Theatre (ACT) like it’s his last. “That’s how I approach my work. I could get hit by a bus tomorrow or the world could end, so why wait? Let’s do it now,” he said. HAT’S WHY, THE MOMENT THE INSPIRATION strikes for a new show, Brian acts immediately. This go-getter attitude has allowed to him to perform all kinds of successful shows, earning him a reputation among community children since he first joined ACT in 1996. Now, he is the Associate Artistic/Managing Director of the theatre, and has no plans of slowing down anytime soon. However, Brian didn’t always want to get into show business. He initially came to Aberdeen to pursue marketing at Northern State University. At the time, his only theatre experience was a show he participated in during his senior year of high school. “I was always too scared to try, but then I thought, this is my last chance, if I don’t do it now, I never will.” His freshman year of college, he tried out for NSU’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and slowly began to realize the theatre was where his true passion lied. In the summer of 1996, he volunteered for ACT’s production of Oliver! and began consistently performing for both the community theatre and NSU. During this time, it was the people Brian worked with that inspired him to keep going. “They were terrific and very welcoming,” he said. “I was really cash-poor at the time. So many people took me under their wing and kept me alive.”

BY BECCA SIMON

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

number of ends, from making sure actors have their lines memorized and the technique down to meeting technical deadlines in regards to sets, props, costumes, and lights. Even during these shorter programs, though, Brian works hard to ensure the end product is of admirable quality and that the experience is as valuable as possible. “I’m trying to teach skills that will stick,” he said. “The habits that we try to instill here will help them not only in the theatre, but in anything they choose to pursue. That’s my primary goal with the Young People’s Theatre program.” Since the ACT operates on a showby-show basis, the plans for this summer have yet to be decided. For Brian, this model is a blessing, since it allows for lots of flexibility. “If I wake up in the middle of the night with this crazy idea and think, ‘Is that something we could actually do?’ Well, we have a pretty open schedule, so let’s try it!” Although Brian typically acts on ideas as soon as he gets them, he does have a couple shows he has been sitting on for a while. One is a musical called How to Eat Like a Child: And Other Lessons in Not Being a Grownup. “It’s absolutely delightful, but I’m waiting for the right opportunity. A variety of logistic factors have to fall into place before I can pull the trigger on that one,” Brian said. Because Brian spends so much time working with, inspiring, and entertaining kids, many people might think that it is a nonstop party at his house. However, an interesting fact that some may not know about him is that he does, in fact, occasionally value silence. “When I go home, I like to be able to turn everything off and just be quiet. I love listening to music and performing music, but believe it or not, when I’m not in the shop I like things to be quiet. Silence is golden,” he laughed. Brian’s job title was recently changed from Education/Technical director to Associate Artistic/Managing Director to better reflect the kind of work he has been doing. Currently, he is looking forward to defining for himself what that fully entails, and can’t wait to see what the future holds. “I feel without question that I’m supposed to be here,” he said. “This is what I’m supposed to be doing. I guess this is where the good Lord wants me to be, and I’m happy to do it.” //

Photo by Troy McQuillen

In his last couple years of college, Brain started his own children’s theatre program and traveled around the area doing a series of workshops and camps. While doing a production camp in Redfield, Jim Walker, the Artistic/ Managing Director at ACT, came down to see the show and asked Brian if he would do the same thing for the kids in Aberdeen. He was brought on board in September 2001, and the rest is history. Although Brian directs the shows for the Young People’s Theatre program, he is a teacher first and foremost. It’s his goal to take a group of people, some of which have never set on foot on stage and some who are already quite experienced, and get “I feel without them all to the same question that I’m place by the time the show opens. To do supposed to be this, he tries to instill here. This is what professional level I’m supposed to habits while working hard to ensure the be doing.” experience is as positive as possible. “Kids can perform and put on a show just as well as any adult,” Brian said. One of the primary skills he teaches kids is how to be confident in a group. They learn how to stand, how to project their voices and speak well, and how to sound confident. Other core values they work on include teamwork and trust. “Every single person is important to a production,” Brian explained. “If one person isn’t there or isn’t performing to the best of their ability, the whole production suffers.” Brian starts practice by having the kids read the script so everyone gets a feel for what the story is, who the characters are, and how they relate to each other. It is imperative that the actor understands the story as well as their role in it in order to bring that character to life and make them believable. Then, they move on to bringing all those elements together and Brian starts playing with choices. “I try to decide who is standing where, how we are getting there, and what we can do within those parameters.” However, getting a show to a polished level comes with its fair share of challenges. Sometimes, Brian has no more than two weeks to audition kids and get the show ready to be performed. This means he must adhere to a very demanding schedule on a

MAY/JUNE 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

SCENE

A Job Well Done Local leaders and businesses recognized for their efforts Area businesses are letting us know about their accomplishments. Please send any distinctions you, your staff, or your company has attained to becca@aberdeenmag.com, and we will consider it for publication in a future issue. Thanks for helping Aberdeen shine a little brighter! //

BETH GEARY, marketing professional at Wheat Growers, was named a 2017 recipient of the Next Gen Award given by the National Agri-Market Association (NAMA). This award recognizes young professionals in the agribusiness industry who are known for their innovation, leadership, and contributions to their business and communities. In addition to being active in her community, Beth has spearheaded the effort to control expenses while extending reach of marketing programs, as well as provided valuable support to an extended agronomy team that spans 40 locations and two states.

Courtesy Photos

TROY MCQUILLEN, owner of McQuillen Creative Group and publisher of this very magazine, was named the 2017 Entrepreneur of the Year by the Aberdeen Development Corporation at the 2017 Community Champions Luncheon, an event held to recognize the people at the heart of our community. In the true spirit of entrepreneurship, Troy has pioneered many business efforts, including McQuillen Creative Group, his marketing business of 22 years, his woodworking business, Elmwood Studio, and, of course, Aberdeen Magazine. He has also made a positive impact on his community through his devotion to projects such as the new public library, and continues to charge forward with ambition in all of his endeavors.

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

DOUBLE DUTY MOVERS & PORTABLE STORAGE of Aberdeen, SD was named the winner of the 2016 Enterprise Award, presented to an outstanding small independent mover by the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA). This award honors AMSA movers with less than $3 million in annual gross revenues and less than 25 employees whose performance has been outstanding in terms of community service, employee relations, innovative operations, and exceptional customer service practices. Double Duty has made a helpful impact on the community by providing free moving services for families in need, storage for fire and flood victims, and assistance to local churches and charities.

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FEATURE

ď&#x192;&#x2DC; The Foundation helped purchase the vans the Boys and Girls Club uses to pick up over 250 children after school every day.

A FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE Part of what makes Aberdeen so special is how devoted our community is to helping one another. To see this, you have to look no further than the multitude of nonprofit agencies around town that are devoted to providing community members with helpful services at little to no cost. BY BECCA SIMON 22

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

Where would we be without the Salvation Army, who provides countless individuals with food, shelter, clothing, and kindness? What about the Boys and Girls Club, which gives children a safe, affordable place to go after school, or SPURS, the therapeutic riding center that assists in client rehabilitation? All of these organizations play key roles in making Aberdeen the community it is, but providing these services wouldn’t be possible without a little financial assistance. That’s where United Way comes in. For over 85 years, United Way has been assisting 16 local health and human service agencies that serve as the backbone of the community. Every year, they allocate about half a million dollars to each of the 36 respective programs within those agencies. Despite the Northeastern South Dakota branch being relatively small, it brings in a hefty $740,000 annually. In 1985, the United Way Foundation was created as a separate entity to provide grants for their partnering agencies that extend beyond their typical annual campaign. This money comes from bequeathed gifts, and currently has a corpus amount of just under a million dollars in it – something that’s very atypical for a United Way our size. The grants are typically one-time monies used for something special that the agencies may not be able to acquire otherwise due to lack of funds. According to Aaron Schultz, Executive Director at United Way, the Foundation has come into its own in the past 10 years. Since 2010 alone, $250,000 in grants has been allocated out. “It’s a wonderful thing to have because of all the unique opportunities we’re able to fund,” Aaron said. “The Foundation is that quick one-time opportunity that

a lot of our agencies want. There have been some really neat stories that have come out of the grant program we have here.” Last year, for instance, SPURS was able to purchase Cheyanne, a specially trained therapeutic riding horse that also smiles on command. Since most of horses out at SPURS are donated, they typically aren’t trained or are already nearing the end of their lives. The opportunity to acquire a young, trained horse that they don’t have to pay for themselves is one that doesn’t come up very often. One of the earliest purchases the United Way Foundation helped make possible was a security system for Safe Harbor. Not long after it was installed, their windows were broken, and the security system was instrumental in helping to identify the culprit. In addition, the Foundation helped partially fund many of the vans for the Boys and Girls Club, making it possible for them to pick up around 250 kids every single day after school. This year, they also helped purchase cribs for the Youth Development Center at the YMCA as well as a speaker and a large TV for the Aberdeen Senior Center. “These are the things you don’t think about all the time,” Aaron explained. “We’re trying to help them keep costs down as much as possible.” Future funding plans are also in the works. Although they’re still ironing out the details, United Way plans to provide support for a mobile food service the Salvation Army wants to implement. Currently, the Salvation Army feeds a few hundred children a week during the school year through its Snack Pack program, but a mobile canteen would help them feed kids in the summer, too. This year, United Way is also looking to partner with Aberdeen Parks and Recreation to create a “Born Learning” trail. This idea comes from their parent organization, United Way Worldwide, and is aimed at kids five years and under and their parents. “They’re basically street signs,” Aaron explained. “One will say, ‘Learning happens everywhere. Look at the trees around you and count how many birds are in the tree.’ Next there might be hopscotch on the cement.” The first trail system is planned to be at Aldridge Park on North Main. The success stories that come from the Foundation’s assistance are endless, but Aaron emphasized that it’s really the community that makes it all possible. “United Way is a reflection of the community. We don’t produce anything here, the community just steps up – from manufacturing plants, to banking industries, to colleges – they all embrace to the United Way model,” he said. “I believe most people want to do good, especially around this area. We stretch every dollar as far as we can go and try to help as many causes as possible.” To learn more about the United Way or the United Way Foundation, contact their office at 605-2250212 or visit their website at www.uwnesd.org. //

 With help from the United Way Foundation, the Aberdeen Senior Center was recently able to purchase new exercise equipment.

 The Foundation made it possible for the YAPAtorium to purchase new musical instruments for kids to jam with.

 Aaron Schultz, Executive Director, and Angie Cleberg, Executive Assistant of United Way are working hard every day to help better the community.

MAY/JUNE 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

Photos by Troy McQuillen

United Way is a reflection of the community... the community just steps up.”

UP CLOSE

 The Aberdeen Aqua addicts do an impressive flip midair. Their shows feature all kinds of impressive stunts, from barefooting to human pyramids and even ballet.

Photo courtesy of Aberdeen Aqua Addicts

See You at the Lake The Aberdeen Aqua Addicts Water Ski Team BY JENNY ROTH

HE ABERDEEN AQUA ADDICTS Water Ski Team has entertained audiences for over 20 years with their summer performances on the lake. This talented group is known for their high-energy shows featuring stunts such as human pyramids, barefooting, ski jumps, and ballet, to name a few. They competitively compete each year on a regional level, have contributed members to Team USA and world championships, and so far have produced five professional water skiers who now ski for Lego Land, Sea World, and Tommy Bartletts. At the same time, a huge part of their organization revolves around reaching out to the community, teaching others how to water ski, and involving youth and families. They have specific days this season set aside just to teach newcomers how to ski. Their Junior Team, made up of beginners to the sport, has their own practices and also gets the chance to try out new skills during the team’s weekly summertime ski shows. It isn’t unusual for a parent or even grandparent to ski alongside their kids in a performance. Current co-show director Taryn Ryckman had never even attempted to water ski when she joined the team during its initial year in 1995. She said the group didn’t have any official shows during that first year. “It was just us simply learning to ski and getting members together. We had a lot of interest and people who wanted to ski and we were trying to see what we could do.” The group continued practicing, and after traveling to regional water ski competitions to see what was out there for the sport, they decided that it was definitely something they wanted to be involved in. The following summer, they held their first official performances at Mina Lake, and after that, participant numbers and interest in their organization quickly began to grow. Over the years, the team continued to perform

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

in shows held mostly at Wylie Lake, compete in tournaments, and expand. Their own space to practice, perform, and host bigger events was a goal that finally came to realization in 2012 when they were able to acquire Dahme Lake, a gravel pit located about 2 ½ miles south of Aberdeen on Highway 281, with the generous help of longtime Aberdeen community member and sports fan Gary Dahme. Gary sadly passed away in October of 2016. Founding Aqua Addicts member and show director Todd Thorson says that Gary was instrumental in the team being able to have the great location that they do now. “We wanted to have a facility for the community and Gary bent over backwards, in time and effort, to make that possible. His honesty, integrity, and generosity are what we as an organization hope to carry on.” Members of the Aqua Addicts are quick to tell you that in addition to water skiing itself, what they love most about being on their team is the ways in which it has allowed them to give back. Thorson said his favorite day of the summer is their annual Escape to the Lake Adaptive Water Ski. This event gives people with any kind of physical or developmental disability, who normally would never have the chance to water ski, an opportunity to do so. Participants ride in a wheelchair accessible seat alongside other skiers and get to experience the joy of being on the water. The team is also holding two Learn to Ski Days this summer, in which they will provide all the equipment needed and teach

anyone interested, from young children to adults how to water ski. Thorson adds that their group works hard to provide a safe team environment for youth from Aberdeen and the surrounding areas. “We’re most proud of making kids’ dreams come true and teaching them a lifelong skill.” The Aqua Addicts will begin their 2017 season on Thursday, June 8 at 7:00 PM, with their opening show at Dahme Lake, and will continue to perform shows every Thursday evening throughout the summer months. The team began working on their upcoming season back in February by practicing their routines and choreography indoors at Trinity Lutheran Church gym. They will also host the Midwest Regional Show Ski Tournament at the end of July. The tournament, which is free and open to the public, will bring about 600 of the best water skiers from across the Midwest to Aberdeen for three days of competition. Contenders will be attempting to qualify for nationals and performing their best group and individual freestyle routines during the event. Thorson describes an evening at one of their shows by saying, “We have a really fun, relaxed environment where people can come out and just sit on the beach or in the bleachers and enjoy the night.” //

We’re most proud of making kids’ dreams come true and teaching them a lifelong skill.”

 MORE INFORMATION ON THE ABERDEEN AQUA

ADDICTS WATER SKI TEAM, INCLUDING A CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR THEIR SUMMER SHOWS AND PROGRAMS, IS AVAILABLE ON THEIR WEB SITE AT WWW.AQUAADDICTS.ORG.

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MAY/JUNE 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

GALLERY

Worth Gobbling About Local artist and writer Bobbi Piasecki shares her love of writing, photography, and turkeys BY BECCA SIMON

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

the little turkey didn’t have any intention of saying goodbye. Bobbi and her son were just beginning the drive home after dropping Gobbles off at a hobby farm when all of the sudden she appeared in the rear view mirror, running at full speed out of a cloud of dust after her family. “That’s when I realized we were going to be stuck with this bird forever,” Bobbi recalled with a laugh. Since becoming a part of the family, Gobbles has earned the title of “Diva Turkey” and created quite a reputation for herself. Although she primarily eats wild bird food, she has taken to thinking she is a human, and demands only the best of the best. She loves to eat everything that Bobbi eats, from chili to chocolate and even spaghetti, and follows her around wherever she goes. When Bobbi gets up in the morning, Gobbles thinks its preening time. “Every action I do, she kind of mimics in her own way. You wouldn’t believe it,” Bobbi said. In addition to dust baths, Gobbles also enjoys bubble baths and has a giant

pink stuffed bunny rabbit that she sleeps with every night. Bobbi utilizes her in almost every aspect of her art, from photographing her to using her feathers and eggs in various art pieces. Although Gobbles is a delightful feathered friend and addition to the family, Bobbi wants to make it clear that wild turkeys don’t typically make the best pets. “She is undeniably one of a kind,” she said. “We must remember that she will always have a bit of wild in her, and she can only be cared for by those who have a great deal of knowledge in wildlife care.” Since her adoption, Gobbles has created fans all the way from Timber Lake to Watertown and Sioux Falls and starred in several of Bobbi’s photography series. The first was the Masterpiece Collection, in which she dressed Gobbles and digitally painted the backgrounds so she could appear in her own versions of famous works of art such as Gobbalisa and Turkey with Pearl Earring. The second was a tribute to old

When the ideas hit me, I have to start working right away.”

Photo of Bobbi by Troy McQuillen

OBBI PIASECKI HAS ALWAYS loved writing stories. She taught her children to read by writing stories with them, and has devoted much of her life to advocating for children’s literacy and childhood education, both in South Dakota and nationwide. An inspiration for a story can arise from virtually anything, from day to day mishaps to family members and more. However, nothing has inspired her quite as much as Gobbles, the charismatic turkey and honorary family member that serves as the subject of her first books. It all started when Bobbi’s husband Chris noticed that the wild turkey flock near where he worked had suddenly disappeared. A turkey chick was crying out from the bushes, where Chris found that a nest had been destroyed. She was no more than a couple days old at the time, so Chris brought her home in an attempt to save her. However, they knew that once that they had taken her out of the wild, they couldn’t put her back. So, after her nursing her back to health, Bobbi tried taking her to several different bird sanctuaries and farms. But

 Much of Bobbi’s recent art is centered on her feathered friend Gobbles. These paintings, including “Portrait of a Young Turkey” and “Turkey with Pearl Earring,” are her own hilarious takes on classic paintings.

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

Hollywood, featuring Gobbles as Marilyn Monroe and “Gobblezilla”. The third is an Old West series that is still in the works. “When the ideas hit me, I have to start working right away,” Bobbi said. That’s why, when the idea struck to turn Gobbles’ story into a children’s book, Bobbi got to work immediately. She already has two books in the works: the first is Gobbles: A Turkey Tale, which is an excerpt of Gobbles’ daily life, and the second is Gobbles from Field of Fame, which tells the story of how she came to live with Bobbi’s family and her rise to glory. Rather than try to apply to thousands of publishing agencies, Bobbi decided to start her very own publishing company: Creative Thunder Publishing and Art. She has already received the funding to do it, and is in the process of acquiring the necessary equipment. Both of Gobbles’ books will be for sale at the Artworks Gallery in the Aberdeen Mall, as well as several other locations including the Storybook Land gift shop and the Dacotah Prairie Museum. While Gobbles may be the star in many of her books, Bobbi is also passionate about creating Native American children’s books. During an after-school reading program she created, one of the children asked her why all of the books showed Native Americans in their dancing outfits and regalia. “I realized that it’s really hard to find anything contemporary that they can relate to better,” Bobbi explained. An avid activist of early childhood education, Bobbi attended many state and national conferences and discovered that none of the teachers she spoke to had any modern Native

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

American literature to use in classes. “So I decided to write my own.” Although writing takes up much of her time these days, Bobbi is equally as passionate about photography. She especially loves photographing animals, noting her special knack for photographing them. “They just stop and pose for me,” she said, laughing. “Especially wild animals, which is ridiculous. While I was taking senior pictures for one of my cousins, a little squirrel ran out and stopped in the middle of the sidewalk and posed, and I took his picture. It’s kind of like being an animal whisperer.” Bobbi’s forward looking attitude to her art and life in general stemmed partially from her time at Oprah’s Women Rule! conference, an event featuring 80 up and coming women leaders in the nation. This life-changing event taught her two simple words that she always keeps in the back of her mind: Just ask. “What can it hurt? That’s been my motto ever since,” Bobbi said. “It’s gotten me so many wonderful opportunities that you wouldn’t believe. Overcome your fear and just ask.” //

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 Red Rooster Coffee House Gallery 202 South Main Street 605-225-6603 Mon-Thurs 7 AM-9 PM, Fri 7 AM-11 PM and Sat 8 AM-11 PM

MAY/JUNE 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

 Matt Klundt teaches an Intro to 3D printing class in the Makerspace. Classes are held the first Friday of every month at 3:00 and 4:00 PM.

Creating the Future CREATE Makerspace

BY BECCA SIMON

HEN TRAVIS KIEFER attended high school in Groton, South Dakota, there was nowhere within a 100-mile radius he could go to express his “nerdy” interests or do what he loved to do most – tinker with computers and build things. So the local entrepreneur and owner of the Citizens Building decided to do what he does best: create his own. CREATE Makerspace was launched last summer with the aim of providing a space for fellow inventors and tinkerers to do software, hardware, and electrical engineering, and give them the tools to bring their ideas to life. Because of his background working in tech companies like Silicon Valley, Travis knows firsthand how important technology is to modern day society. Practically everyone has a smart phone, or is at least familiar with one, and you can scarcely get by in today’s world without using some form of smart technology on a daily basis. “We’re getting to the point where we’re putting more computers and smarts in more of our products we use in everyday life,” Travis said. “What that

ultimately means to me is that Harry Potter is going to come to life soon.” However, there are no STEM focused programs anywhere in the region. The closest computer programming boot camp, for example, is in Madison or Rapid City. “We’re looking to create a place where people who want to do that can, hence the name.” And create they most certainly can. Members of the Makerspace have 24/7 access to the space and all of the tools within it, including soldering and hardware assembly tools, 3D printers, and almost any other componentry you can possibly imagine. Members of EASE staff the Makerspace from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM and can help anyone who needs help or runs into trouble working with certain tools. “What you get is more than just access to the tools, but also to people who know what they’re doing,” Travis said. “It’s also about the network and the relationships.” Currently, the folks at CREATE are in the process of putting together an advisory board and figuring out how to best utilize the space. Since what they are most passionate about is engaging students, their biggest plans include creating a

The best way to predict the future is to create it.”

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

variety of educational opportunities. They’ve already gotten a head start with their monthly classes, offered the first Friday of every month at 3:00 and 4:00 PM and covering a wide range of topics, from introductions to programming to 3D printing and even circuits and design. Once a quarter, they’d also like to host events. One example of this is a summer gaming boot camp in which participants would learn how to create their own video game. Another is a startup weekend, a three-day event where participants start with an initial set of problems and design constraints and have to work within teams to solve them, using technology to do so. Since the challenges presented will likely deal with realworld problems local nonprofits face, Travis is hopeful that the solutions participants come up with could lead to real business endeavors. Last but not least are “Pi Wars”, a contest that challenges participants to take small, single-board computers, or Raspberry Pis, and build upon them to navigate an obstacle course. The Makerspace is already being utilized to do great things. The folks at CREATE are working on developing trackers for individuals with memory issues to ensure their safety and make sure they aren’t lost. The space has also been used to print car parts using the 3D printer and even helped a farmer design his own connecting pieces for water hoses. Travis is most looking forward to more people creating their own things with technology, microcontrollers, Internet of Things (IoT), and more. His vision for Aberdeen is that we become the regional hub for anything IoT based. Things like smart sensors assist with a lot of things – from helping us reduce water and electricity waste to letting us know that grandma and grandpa are safe. “This is what technology enables,” Travis explained. “By creating this hub here, I think what we’re talking about doing is transforming Aberdeen’s economy to be something that looks forward into the 21st century. The best way to predict the future is to create it.” //  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN CREATING THINGS, OR

HAVE A FAMILY OR FRIEND WHO IS, TRAVIS ENCOURAGES YOU TO GET IN TOUCH WITH CREATE. THEY ARE INTERESTED IN ACCEPTING VOLUNTEERS AND SUMMER INTERNS, AS WELL AS PEOPLE WHO MAY BE INTERESTED IN DONATING EQUIPMENT OR MEMBERSHIPS. YOU CAN CONNECT WITH THEM ON FACEBOOK AT CREATE WITH EASE OR EMAIL THEM AT HI@CREATEABERDEEN.COM. IN ADDITION, CHECK OUT THEIR WEBSITE AT WWW. CREATEABERDEEN.COM.

Photos by Troy McQuillen

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FEATURE

ONE VERSUS ONE MILLION Aberdeen Mosquito Control’s war on mosquitoes

VERY SUMMER, ABERDEEN WAGES a never-ending war against droves and droves of the world’s smallest (and most annoying) hostile threat: mosquitoes. They invade our backyards, our gardens, and our parks, and quickly ruin many outdoor activities that take place past 7:00 PM. No matter how much we swat at them or spray ourselves down with DEET until our clothes become soggy, they always seem to come back with a vengeance. Thankfully, we can always count on Aberdeen Parks and Recreation’s Mosquito Control division to serve as our front line of defense to help keep our summer months relatively itch-free. Aberdeen Mosquito Control has two primary functions: protecting the citizens and controlling nuisance mosquitoes. Their top priority is controlling vector mosquitoes, which are the mosquitoes capable of transmitting diseases. Right now, these are primarily Culex mosquitoes, the genus of the species that carry the West Nile disease. The second is to control the population of floodwater mosquitoes, which are the ones most

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

prevalent in numbers, so that people can enjoy being outside without having to worry about pests. Although it’s impossible to eliminate them entirely, Mosquito Control’s goal is to keep these numbers at a manageable level so people don’t have to go ducking for cover every time they go outside. In order to keep our streets safe, Mosquito Control operates under the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program, which puts an emphasis on solving pest problems while minimizing risk factors to people and the environment. The foundation of this program starts with surveillance. Mosquito Control places traps throughout the community, which are then brought into labs where the trapped mosquitoes are counted and tested to see whether or not they are carrying West Nile. Next, they do larviciding, which involves dipping pools of water to find larvae, counting how many are found, and observing what stage they are in before taking action. According to Park Superintendent and head of the Mosquito Control division Mark Hoven, this is one of the most effective methods they employ, because it gives them a good gauge of what’s coming and how they can treat it. “The best way to control them is to get them in the water,” he explained. “We have natural products that we put in the water that either control the growth hormone of the mosquitoes or take them out immediately depending on what stage they’re at.” The traps are primarily used to determine when Mosquito Control has to go out and spray. When the trap numbers begin to rise or West Nile is spotted, they know it’s time to target adult mosquitoes with pesticide, called adulticide. However, Mosquito Control doesn’t spend as much time spraying as many people might think. “Those little white trucks

and yellow lights are probably what people see the most, but that only makes up about 10% of our time,” Mark said. “Most of our time is spent in surveillance and larviciding in and out of the community to keep mosquitoes from harvesting.” When spraying, Mosquito Control uses a pesticide called Permethrin that sprays only .007 ounces per acre. When people see the trucks coming down the street emitting fog, that’s actually just the carrier oil being produced that lifts the Permethrin up into the air. “We could put a thousand droplets on a pin; they are so small that the naked eye can’t see them,” Mark explained. “But there’s enough product in there that it will take mosquitoes out.” When targeting mosquitoes, Mosquito Control has to be careful not to take out any off targets such as beneficial insects. “That’s why we spray at night, because the beneficial insects aren’t flying actively.” Mosquito Control employs seven part-time employees from mid-April to mid-October, most of which are college students with a background in biology or natural sciences. Everyone that applies has to obtain a Public Health Pesticide Applicator license, and is responsible for nearly every aspect

Photos by Troy McQuillen

BY BECCA SIMON

 Mark Hoven and Darren Cleveland check to make sure everything on the spray trucks is in order. An insecticide called Permethrin targets adult mosquitoes when it is sprayed into the air. Only a very small amount is sprayed into the air, ensuring the safety of you, your family, and pets.

of mosquito control, from conducting tests to identifying mosquitoes to using pesticides. Mark is responsible for everything else, including overseeing all operations, making executive decisions, and deciding which products to use. Although it can be hard work, Mark finds it to be very rewarding. “It was pretty interesting when I first got into it. It’s amazing when you’re battling an insect that outnumbers you a million to one.” The biggest challenge Mosquito Control faces each year is without a doubt West Nile. The disease has been in Aberdeen for 13 years, meaning its return is inevitable, but it can be difficult to predict how much it’s going to rear its head. Depending on the weather conditions, the amount of cases each year varies drastically. Typically, the hot and dry years yield more cases of West Nile. “The Culex mosquitoes enjoy that really dirty, mucky water,” Mark explained. “That’s where they breed.” The first cases of West Nile usually start showing up in the second week of June and slow down by the second to third week of August. Once a pool containing West Nile is detected, Mosquito Control picks up their efforts with spraying and works even

harder to raise public awareness. They advise the public to do three things: dress, drain, and defend. People should start by dressing properly in the evenings and mornings when mosquitoes are active by wearing pants and long-sleeve shirts. It’s also advised that people go through their properties and look for any standing water that may be around, whether in gutters, on a boat tarp, or even in tiny bottle caps, and drain it. “That will breed thousands of mosquitoes,” Mark said. “If a mosquito can find its meal right there, it isn’t going to travel 5-10 miles to look for a blood meal, it’s going to find it in you.” Lastly, people can defend by using insect repellent whenever they go outside. By taking these small steps to control mosquitoes on our private property, we keep the city as a whole safer as well. “A female mosquito lays 150 eggs every time. 75 are male and 75 are female. Those 75 go out looking for bloods meals, and they all lay 150 more eggs,” Mark said. “Every 3-4 days it turns around at thousands more mosquitoes. That’s why we tell people to take care of their property. If you have a lot of mosquitoes around you, you might be breeding the very problem.” //

Pest Patrol

If you’ve drained every last drop of standing water out of your yard and still can’t seem to get rid of the pests, you don’t have to wage the war alone. Mosquito Squad of Eastern South Dakota can take care of your pest problem for you through the use of an effective barrier spray applied to the bushes, trees, and grass in your yard. Because the spray is residual, it stays on longer than most sprays and effectively gets rid of any pests in the perimeter. All-natural sprays made from essential oils are also available for people who have pets or allergies. Prices start at $59 per spray and goes up depending on the size of the property. For a consultation, call Mosquito Squad at 605-725-5252.

MAY/JUNE 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

FEATURE

 NSU Greenhouse manager and biology instructor Julie Schroer and assistant Adam Schultz tend to the plants in the greenhouse.

From the Ground Up A beginner’s guide to gardening from a local guru BY ERIN BALLARD

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

Photo by Troy McQuillen

S TEMPERATURES rise and greenery thrives, it’s hard not to notice the beautiful landscapes and blossoming gardens on display in yards around Aberdeen. With summer well under way in South Dakota, green thumbs are finally rejoicing, getting outside and digging their hands in the soil. For some, the art of gardening is meditation; a tranquil escape from an otherwise bustling, chaotic daily life. For others, it’s a pipe dream. In correspondence with Northern’s greenhouse manager and biology instructor Julie Schroer, we asked some of the most frequent and basic questions about gardening, and learned some key tips of the trade. Whether you lack a natural green thumb or are just trying to get back into the gardening groove, Schroer’s expertise is a great starting point for what’s shaping up to be a long, hot season ahead. First and foremost, regardless of skill level, planning is a gardener’s best friend. This is essential – not putting the time in at the beginning of the process could mean spending more in the long run. “Do research on the plants you’re considering growing: How tall do they get? When do they flower? How much water and sunlight do they need? What combinations of plants do you want in your containers or gardens? If you’re an experienced gardener, evaluate last year’s plantings. What do you want to change for this year?” Schroer advised. If you’re like me, dazed and confused in any garden section, Schroer recommends talking to local gardeners. Having a mentor who can provide encouragement and guidance can also help to educate and motivate along the way. If you’re not so much a gardener as you are a casual grower, Schroer had some plants in mind that aren’t as fussy as others. These are the kind she refers to as “carefree.” Still, before deciding on a plant, flower, tree, etc., you should determine how much commitment you’re willing to put in. If you just want to try it out for a season, annual plants are the way to go. Annuals are those that need to be replanted every year with new seeds. Some beginner friendly ones are Geraniums and Dragon Wing Begonias. If you want something more long term, perennial plants come back each season, without needing to be replanted. Some easier perennials to grow include daylilies, ornamental grasses and the shrubby False Indigo. Tend to forget about watering? Succulents are your best bet. “They have thick, fleshy leaves or stems that store water. You can actually kill them faster by overwatering them than under-watering,” Schroer wrote.

In fact, Schroer suspects that overwatering is the number one killer of plants. The skill of knowing just how much is enough is one that can be tedious and takes a bit of practice to perfect. Still, it all comes down to paying attention to the plant. “If your plant is wilted and the soil is dry, then water it more frequently using more water at a time. If it seems to be doing well and then you notice soft, dark spots on the stem, then you’re probably overwatering,” Schroer explained. When in doubt, “less water will lead to fewer insect and fungus problems.”

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Luckily for many of us, lots of different plants work in pots – both annuals and perennials – which are a better option for those who live in apartments or have smaller backyards. Unlike in garden planting, container gardens can be planted at any time, regardless of weather. They’re also generally a cheaper option, too. Keep in mind though that pots require potting soil specifically, and that you should fertilize once a week (unless you are planting succulents).

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Some basics to find out prior to pot planting:  Sunlight exposure; if it’s in full sun, you can grow different plants than you can in the shade.

 Soil composition; if, when moist, it falls apart instead of forming a clump in your fist, then you may need to add peat moss to help it retain water.

In potted plants, the pros recommend what they call “a filler, a thriller and a spiller.” “Thrillers are the beautiful flowers – something that makes you think, ‘Wow!’” Schroer wrote. “Fillers include smaller flowers or grasses that complement the thriller, and spillers will trail over the edge.” As greenery accents in homes gets more and more popular, container sizes, shapes and styles are becoming increasingly varied. Gardening is full of small choices and niceties. While the details can seem overwhelming at times, what keeps people coming back year after year is the art of it. Whether your plants bloom or not, it’s essential to remember that even the most experienced gardeners kill plants sometimes. The real joy comes out of trial and error. Schroer’s most important advice was to not get discouraged. “OK, you didn’t get any peas this year because the rabbits ate them. Get advice on how to grow better next year,” she wrote. “Don’t be afraid to start small – you can always add to your garden when you see some successes. You’re not going to be a perfect gardener the first time out – something will die or not go the way you had planned, but you WILL eventually have success, and it can be very rewarding.” It’s all part of one big learning experience, but what’s most important is that you enjoy it – the sun, the soil and the process. //

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MAY/JUNE 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

FEATURE

Wilds Wylie

The of

WRITTEN BY BECCA SIMON PHOTOGRAPHY BY TROY MCQUILLEN

Spring has sprung in South Dakota, and you can see it everywhere – from the buds sprouting on the trees to the whitetail deer fawns following their mothers. Flocks of snow geese dot the skies and cover the fields in white – much like the snow we so recently left behind. Unlike the geese, however, who have the luxury of heading south, most of South Dakota’s wildlife weathers the frost and ice of the winter and the blazing heat of the summer year round. These creatures have proven themselves to be some of nature’s toughest survivors, and luckily, Aberdeen residents have to travel no further than the Wylie Park Zoo to catch a glimpse of them. 34

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

s e

ï&#x192;&#x2122; Park Manager and zookeeper Mark Grote pets Harry, the buffalo bull at Wylie Park. Disclaimer: Do NOT reach your arms into or over the fences to touch the animals. These are wild animals, and should be treated as such.

MAY/JUNE 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

 A family of Sika deer enjoys a day in the sun.

The earliest records of the zoo date back to 1915, only five years after Wylie Park was established and decades before Storybook Land even opened. Back then, it was called the Wylie Zoo Bird and Animal Sanctuary and was located in what is now the Birdhouse parking lot. The zoo was a lot different than it is now, providing homes to animals such as elk, monkeys, badgers, American eagles, horned owls, coyotes, foxes, and even predators such as bears and wolves. Back when it first opened, the zoo with its various attractions, including duck ponds, a wolf den, a birdhouse, and a granary, were popular attractions within the park’s boundaries. That holds true even a century later, even though the composition of the zoo has changed quite drastically. Now, Park Manager Mark Grote wants to convert the zoo to be an accurate reflection of the various types of wildlife that can be found roaming the plains of South Dakota. “We have so many tourists that come to Wylie Park and stay at our campground from all over the United States, so I want good representative animals of what you can see out in the wild,” he said. The Wylie Park Zoo is already well on its way to achieving that goal. Currently, visitors to the park can see white-tailed deer, llamas, buffalo, elk, yaks, sika deer, and prairie dogs, in addition to the park’s two duck ponds. This year, Mark is working with Bear Country USA out of Rapid City to add prairie pronghorn antelope to that lineup, as well as bighorn sheep and mule deer sometime in the near future. Because native animals are already well adapted to South Dakota’s harsh weather conditions, they are also easier to care for than non-native species. Under care from Aberdeen Parks and Recreation employees, the animals stay in the zoo year-round. In the wintertime, the animals need more hay and spend most of their time inside their shelters to keep warm. They are fed a special diet of corn and oats and have checkups every three months courtesy of Northern Plains Animal Health, in which they are given

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

deworming shots and thoroughly inspected for any other medical needs. In addition to their usual daily meal, they also frequently receive “treats” courtesy of Ken's Superfair Foods. “We worked out a deal with their old produce that they can’t sell anymore,” Mark explained. “We pick them up once a week and give them to the animals as treats.” They also use this process as part of training for the animals. During feeding time, the animals come up to the feed bunk, and that’s when they do their visual inspection to make sure they’re healthy. “They are very well taken care of. They have a great life out here.” Mark’s favorite animal in the zoo is the bull buffalo. “He’s an amazing animal, and you don’t realize how big he is until he’s right in front of you,” he said. “He’s such a powerful, powerful animal, and he was made for this environment. The colder it gets, the happier the buffalo are. They run around and play in the cold, with frost on their faces and coming out of their noses.”

 A family of llamas and their newborn baby, called a cria, strut towards the camera.

 A prairie dog stands guard near the entrance to the burrow that he calls home.

 This yak’s very long, woolly fur helps it withstand extremely cold South Dakota winters.

All of these animals have a wild animal background. You always need to respect their speed and strength.”

 This male elk just shed his antlers days before this photo was taken.

All of the animals either come from nearby zoos or local ranchers. The prairie dogs came from the Bramble Park Zoo in Watertown, and two of the cow buffalo came from a rancher near Onaka, South Dakota. In addition to the Wylie Park Zoo, Storybook Land also has two petting zoos filled with farm animals such as cows, goats, sheep, and chickens. These animals are given to the park on loan from local farmers and ranchers in the summertime, and are returned once the park closes after Labor Day. When it comes to taking care of the animals, Mark emphasizes that it is most important to remember where they came from. “All of these animals have a wild animal background,” he said. “You always need to respect that.” To do this, employees never go

in the enclosures alone, and typically enter on vehicles. “You always need to respect their speed and strength.” Although the zoo may not be the biggest in terms of the quantity of animals it contains, it makes up for that in acreage. Each species has more than enough room to roam and exercise freely, something that’s crucial in keeping happy, healthy animals. “It’s also along the bike path and the hiking trail, so it’s a great environment,” Mark added. “What a better place to do your morning run than the zoo?” As the days become longer and the weather continues to warm up, Mark highly encourages people to come visit the zoo. “Spring is an exciting time for us because we have new babies arriving. Who doesn’t like to see baby animals?” //

MAY/JUNE 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

Y E S T E R DAY S

Forgotten History The James River and Tacoma Park BY ERIN BALLARD

HEN THE WEATHER IS nice and hot, it seems like all of Aberdeen heads out to the lake. Richmond and Mina Lakes are the most common nowadays, but they haven’t always been the popular spot for relief from summer afternoons. For most of the 20th century, that title went to Tacoma Park, and before that, to several unnamed, now-forgotten groves along the James River. At separate times in history, one could find indigenous people and city and country folk sitting on the river’s shaded banks, taking in its cool ambiance. The slow moving, sinuous body of water has a deep and rich history and was much more significant a landmark than many today realize. Dubbed “unnavigable river” by Dakota tribes, called the James River by French explorers and commonly known as the Jim to modern locals, the river travels a total of 710 miles throughout North and South Dakota and essentially splits Brown County into two parts. In the early 1800s, the meeting of the Elm and the James – the presentday Columbia area – was an important crossing point for American Indians following buffalo migrations. It also provided fuel, shelter, and food,

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

such as fish, deer and small game. The same things that drove Native Americans to these treey banks would also attract explorers and eventually, Brown County settlers. Bridging areas around the James River was very important during this time, not only for trading routes and passages, but also for social reasons. The groves around the river became important gathering points between rural, dispersed farmers and their urban dwelling counterparts. According to James River Landscapes and Historic Sites by Dr. Art Buntin, the James was instrumental in keeping smaller towns alive by attracting townspeople from Aberdeen to move the 10 miles out to live on the river. The 1880s’ Great Dakota Boom hit our area, too, all thanks to the Jim. Tales of the timbered shores and stumpless plains of the James River Valley helped populate Aberdeen and the small towns surrounding. Later on, the banks of the river would attract people for other reasons. Pioneers flocked to the banks of the James for shade and leisure. South Dakota’s landscape looked much different back then, before settlement and shelterbelts. The trees were a welcome site in comparison to the surrounding endless prairie, and the local Brown County Sentinel reported in 1897 that “the bank of the beautiful Jim (is) one of the most pleasant spots on earth to take an outing.” Still, the sleepy James could be dangerous. Its low banks mean the river floods very easily, from too much rain or snow. Surrounding communities often flooded, too, and traveling across the river was a difficult feat throughout history. Though groves peppered the banks of the Jim throughout the county, Tacoma Park was by far the most popular. About seven miles south of Columbia sits the former gathering site, though it looks much different today than it did a hundred years ago, when thousands came in for the infamous Park Week each year. Dilapidated and overgrown buildings are now

the only indication that Tacoma Park was once was a place where people went to “dance in a cool spot near the river and among the trees.” Tom James (no connection to the James River) was the original homesteader of the 160-acre plot that would become Tacoma Park. He eventually lost the land in foreclosure, but was allowed to continue living on it. It’s been said that James named his claim after the city in Washington. James was considered an eccentric, and after the park was established, visitors enjoyed seeing the old bachelor, with his worn clothes, long, white beard and penchant for playing the fiddle and making and giving away his ample collection of homemade wine. While the spot at Tacoma Park was always known for its fishing, it wasn’t until the Industrial Association bought the property in 1898 that it became an entertainment hub. Beginning in 1906 with the Chautauqua years (a popular movement across rural America during the early 20th century that promoted adult education), picnics became all the rage at Tacoma Park. Organizations from surrounding towns had frequent all-day events at Tacoma Park, in the years up until 1922. Some of these included the Eagles, the Moose, the Knights of Columbus and the Farmers Bureau, among many others. Tacoma Park became a mecca for public speakers from in- and out-of-state about various important topics of the day, encompassing overseas wars, anti-imperialism, monopoly concerns, labor and agriculture issues, and suffrage and temperance. Structures at Tacoma Park over the years included a dining hall, concession stand, the hillside auditorium (where figures like Hamlin Garland and William Jennings Bryan spoke), cottages (sold mostly to well-to-do members of surrounding communities), a race track for horses and later, stock cars, a pasture area (for horses during the horse and buggy era and then as a parking lot during the early 1900s), a general store, and a baseball diamond. From 1906

Photos courtesy of the Dacotah Prairie Museum

 The peaceful James River offered the perfect getaway for days spent relaxing on the water with friends and family.

 People gather outside of Holien’s Store at Tacoma Park in the year 1909.

to 1922, Tacoma Park Week offered marksman competitions, fireworks, high wire feats, high dive competitions, races (foot, relay and sack), balloon rides, and as always, river boating attractions. Even the weather didn’t stop people from coming out to the river – tobogganing onto the ice during sunny days and moonlit nights was popular. Despite competition in the early 1900s from festivals in Aberdeen and Groton, varied attractions and the lure of a cool, shaded respite from the sweltering heat kept thousands rolling into Tacoma for Park Week and the annual Fourth of July celebrations. In July of 1915, an estimated 12,000 people visited Tacoma Park. Local newspapers wrote of trains full of people going to and from the park daily, carrying hundreds at a time. A round trip from Aberdeen to Tacoma on the Great Northern railroad, where it had a stop in the park, was 50 cents in 1916. In 1922, dances at Tacoma Park took off, beginning a 41-year monopoly over most all of the competing dance pavilions in the area. In 1927 alone, Tacoma held 45 dances during the summer months. Advertisements read, “Tacoma Park, where South Dakota dances” and in 2001, a woman wrote

in the American News: “What I wouldn’t give for one last dance at ‘The Park,’” during what she considered “the best memories of (her) teen-aged years.” The dances at Tacoma Park would eventually slow down, until coming to a complete halt after 1968. A lack of funding and public interest contributed to the demise of the “once glamorous park,” that proud pioneers used “… as a showcase for man’s accomplishments.” Flooding on the James was always an issue for Tacoma Park, and with increasing competition from closer parks, such as Wylie in Aberdeen and Lyra near Frederick – it faded into memory. The Daily American printed this description about Tacoma Park in 1907: “Ideal in location, it surpasses every other spot within striking distance of Brown County. Situated on the banks of the quiet, sleepy Jim River, abounding in trees that furnish cool, refreshing shade throughout the day, a few minutes ride of Aberdeen, it offers irresistible temptations to the man who wishes to escape the heat of the city and the worry of business.” Though the park has not been used by the public in years, the spirit of what once was can still be felt and appreciated today with one look at the banks of the James. Though its park days at Tacoma are over, the river is as alive today as it was in the 19th century. Still important to Aberdeen and smaller communities around it, the Jim is full of wildlife. It’s not uncommon to see people from Aberdeen fishing off of various James River bridges on summer weekends. Bird watching is also popular on the peaceful water, as is kayaking and canoeing, as was the case when the very first Native Americans found the river all that time ago. //

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 The Fred O. Korte family spends a day boating in Tacoma Park on the James River.

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www.aberdeen.sd.us/storybookland MAY/JUNE 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

 Site manager Sarah Mann poses above the BAE factory. Sarah has been with the company for 35 years.

FEATURE

In the Crosshairs f you ask Aberdonians if they know what BAE Systems is and what they do, many might scratch their heads at first. The plant has been in Aberdeen since 1985, but unless you know someone who works there, it’s likely you have no idea that the facility north of town arms naval ships with state-of-the-art missile canisters and plays a vital role in keeping our nation safe.

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

This confusion may come in part from the fact that the BAE Systems facility in Aberdeen has undergone several name changes over the 32 years it has been in operation. When the company first set up shop in Aberdeen in 1985, it was part of FMC Corporation. The company merged with Harsco in 1994 and became United Defense. Then, the business was sold to BAE Systems, a global defense, security, and aerospace company, in 2005. Each BAE Systems location offers a unique product or service. While the site in Minneapolis is an engineering and program management facility, BAE Systems in Aberdeen focuses solely on manufacturing missile canisters for the Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS), a shipboard system capable of rapidly firing a variety of missiles. It is the only BAE Systems facility that produces these canisters, each one made for a specific type of missile, from standard missile variants to ballistic missiles. According to Site Manager Sarah Mann, BAE Systems in Aberdeen operates under a twofold mission. “The first is to safely produce a quality product on schedule at the lowest achievable cost,” Sarah said. “The second is to provide our customer, who is ultimately the warfighter, with the best products and services we possibly can.” To reach its goals, BAE Systems in Aberdeen adheres to a truly unique business management philosophy. The site utilizes a high-

Photo by Troy McQuillen

For 32 years, BAE Systems has been outfitting US battleships stationed around the world with high-quality missile canisters BY BECCA SIMON

NO BUGS. NO BITES. NO KIDDING. FIGHT THE BITE WITH MOSQUITO AND TICK CONTROL.  All 91 of BAE Systems employees posed for a group photo.

 A missile canister is loaded onto a ship, where it will be used to fire missiles from the Mark 41 Vertical Launching System.

performance work team system that empowers employees to make key decisions and in effect be their own boss. To do this, the facility has organized the 91 employees into eight functional teams: welding, machining, canister finishing, launcher ablative, electrical assembly, mechanical assembly, shipping and receiving, and maintenance. These teams are responsible for managing their safety, quality processes, schedules, audits, manufacturing procedures, and even the selection of new employees. According to Sarah, this program has been extremely successful. “It’s empowerment. It’s all about everybody managing this business as if it were their own.” BAE Systems in Aberdeen has two core beliefs regarding its employees. One is that multi-skilled employees are more valuable to the company, and the other is that any of the technical skills required to build their products can be taught. “We don’t expect people to come in here knowing how to weld or do electrical or mechanical assembly,” Sarah explained. “We will teach them that. Instead, we look for people who will not just survive, but

thrive, in a high-performance work team environment. Every 24-36 months, employees are rotated to a new team to ensure they acquire as many skills as possible. If you’re looking for someone to tell you what to do all day every day, you won’t fit here,” Sarah said. In addition to being versatile and independent workers, BAE Systems employees also must be able to adapt to the defense market’s everchanging needs. Missiles are constantly changing and being improved, and as a result so must the canisters that hold them. Aberdeen employees collaborate with skilled engineers at the BAE Systems location in Minneapolis to develop canisters that meet customer requirements and are producible. “It’s great teamwork,” Sarah said. When canisters are shipped from the plant, they go to a facility in Camden, Ark., where missiles are loaded before they head to weapon stations and shipyards. Because there is no contact with the customer, employees typically receive little direct feedback about how their products perform. “You rarely get an opportunity to interact with someone who actually uses the systems onboard the ships; those are US Navy personnel and we rarely get to see them,” Sarah said.

Photos courtesy of BAE Systems

There's a pride among the employees knowing that they're working for the troops and providing them with this wonderful product.”

continued on next page 

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Photo courtesy of BAE Systems

 The BAE facility is located north of town at 3317 8th Ave NE.

However, employees are extremely proud on those rare occasions when they get to see the fruits of their labor in action. Every once in a while, program managers will send them footage of the products in use, and the whole plant gathers to watch it. “There’s a pride among employees knowing they’re working for the troops and providing them with this important product. We want to give them

the best we can to keep them safe and help defend our country and our allies,” Sarah said. “People talk about going to ship commissionings where the ships feature our products, and they come back and talk about how emotional and patriotic it is. You see the products we make and you are so proud of what you do.” Sarah graduated from the University of

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ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

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Wisconsin-Stout in Menomonie, Wis., with a manufacturing engineering degree – an unusual career choice for a woman at that time. “I love manufacturing,” she said. “The defense industry is interesting, and it gives you a good feeling to know that what you do here makes a difference. But the thing that I really love is the people. That’s what makes this plant so special.” //

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MAY/JUNE 2017 ABERDEEN MAGAZINE

WHERE ARE WE NOW?

Find the Plaque

 The 1917 Wylie Park Pavilion’s historic plaque is actually on a rock in the landscaping. See if you can find it.

TRUE OR FALSE? A plaque from the National Register of Historic Places prevents a historic building from being demolished. That would be false. Unfortunately, it’s just a plaque, not a magic force field protecting the building from fire, tornadoes or owner demolition. Historic status and plaques are provided through South Dakota’s State Historic Preservation Office and the Department of the Interior to property owners wanting to preserve a building. Oftentimes, grants and tax credits for renovation work are also applied for when seeking historic status. If this is the case, then a property owner is bound by a contractual agreement with the state and federal government to preserve the structures according to set guidelines. If there are no grant funds, or no local preservation ordinances (as in Aberdeen’s case), a property owner can do anything they like to a building. Fortunately, Aberdeen has several buildings and districts listed on the National Register owned and overseen by historically conscientious people. Take a moment to look at this list online, then go check out the plaques. As always, be sensitive to private residences. // — TROY MCQUILLEN

5 1. Dacotah Prairie Museum Building, 21 S. Main Street; 2. Longfellow House, 12th and north Main; 3. Richardson Law Office, 1 Court Street; 4. Wylie Park Pavilion; 5. Masonic Temple, 503 S. Main Street.

ABERDEEN MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2017

Photos by Troy McQuillen

WWW.ABERDEENMAG.COM/2017/04/HISTORICLIST

1 IN 6 COUPLES STRUGGLE WITH INFERTILITY We can help. Sanford Health Fertility and Reproductive Medicine offers services in Aberdeen and has the region’s only fellowship-trained reproductive endocrinologists. Our team is here to help women who: • Have been trying to conceive for more than one year • Have experienced multiple miscarriages • Are near or over the age of 35 and have been trying to conceive for six months • Have been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis or have a family history of early menopause

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