Empire6.6 March26

EMPIRE

A LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

THE

ART OF CONNECTION

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATE JONES STUDIOS

EMPIRE

CONTRIBUTORS

Account Executives

Jill Foley

712-490-8506 | jill@michelscom.com

Cory Johnsen

605-951-3567 | cory@michelscom.com

Stephen Nohr

605-359-1067 | stephen.nohr@michelscom.com

graphic designer

Makenzie Jorgenson

Photography

Kate Jones Studios katejonesstudios.com

Siouxland Heritage Museums

Prairie and Wild Photography

Daniel, Innova Marketing

Ken Fry, Centrum Foto Studio

team of writers

Andrea Van Essen, Erica Wilcox, Lauren Johnson, Ingrid Hayward, Samantha Brockhouse, Melissa Chinn, Sarah Krecklow, Kathryn Swanson, and Duane Duimstra

Editor

Heather Jordan heather@michelscom.com

Director of Digital marketing

Cory Johnsen

605-951-3567 | cory@michelscom.com

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Melissa Chinn

605-310-7563 | melissa.chinn@michelscom.com

chief of operations

Hanna Sitting Crow

605-760-4269 | hanna@michelscom.com

Over the years, Cindi Johnson’s career has flourished due to one consistent thing: relationships.

Cindi is the group sales manager at Grand Falls Casino and Golf Resort, where they host everything from weddings and holiday parties to golf tournaments and corporate events. She is responsible for bringing those events to the property and helping groups envision their events from start to finish.

“It’s a lot of cold calling and recruiting new people to come out here and tour our resort,” she explains. “Once I get people out here, it’s such a simple sell.”

Cindi’s success is built on a wide network of connections across the region. She says her role at Grand Falls feels like a natural fit after a career that has spanned multiple service industries, shaped by adaptability and a heart for helping others.

“A lot of people ask me why I’m still working,” Cindi shares. “I want to keep working. It’s something I want to do. I love people. I love making connections and hearing stories. And my husband is my biggest cheerleader.”

That instinct for connecting with others started at a young age. Cindi grew up in Mahnomen, Minnesota, a small town north of Detroit Lakes, where her family’s livelihood was rooted in hospitality and entrepreneurship. Her father owned a business until it was destroyed by a fire. After

that loss, her parents faced a difficult decision of what to pursue next.

Her mother ended up purchasing the Kjos Café and Hotel when Cindi was about 12 years old. The hotel had seven rooms, and the café seated about 60 people. Cindi and her younger brother worked alongside their parents in the family business, which was successful thanks to her mother’s strong business sense.

“Between the two of us, we worked with our mom and dad 24/7,” she adds. “My responsibility was to make sure the rooms were clean and in order.”

The café became known for her mother’s homemade baked goods. Travelers often stopped to order pies and cinnamon rolls on their way to the area lakes.

The experience left a lasting imprint.

“Now, look what I’m doing,” Cindi states. “I think my mom is probably smiling down from heaven.”

In high school, Cindi was also drawn toward service, volunteering twice a week at the hospital as a candy striper. She considered a future in nursing and was accepted to the nursing program in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. Ultimately, she shifted toward sales and marketing, a decision influenced by both her personal life and professional opportunity. She ended up attending college in Detroit Lakes to be

closer to her high school sweetheart, Kent, who was going to Moorhead Technical College.

Cindi and Kent have now been married for 53 years. She recalls their early years at Mahnomen High School, where they graduated together. Cindi was a self-described “city girl,” while Kent grew up on a farm.

The couple married on December 30, 1972, during a major snowstorm. Family members used snowmobiles to help Cindi get to the church safely, and many guests arrived the same way. Their reception was held at her mother’s café.

Kent built a long career in sales and marketing, first with Coca-Cola and later Pepsi, where he worked for 23 years. The job required frequent relocation, and the couple moved multiple times across the Midwest. Over the years, they lived in Hibbing, Thief River Falls, Estherville, Aberdeen and Sioux Falls. Their two daughters, Elizabeth and Gretchen, were born while the family lived in Hawley, Minnesota.

As the family moved, Cindi continued building her own career. She entered banking, gained experience in customer service and administration, and later took on roles that allowed her to work directly with people, eventually serving as a senior director in Estherville, organizing trips and programming for older adults. In Aberdeen, she worked for Dacotah Bank before the family relocated again.

After moving to Sioux Falls, Cindi transitioned into sales, traveling extensively across the Midwest for a sunglasses and reading-glasses company. The role took her from store to store and introduced her to buyers and retailers throughout the region, including Scheels and Lewis.

Her clients and connections were the perfect fit as Cindi has a true gift for bringing people together and creating meaningful collaborations. She doesn’t just work alongside others; she connects them, helping each person feel seen, heard, and valued. Her ability to build authentic relationships makes teamwork feel natural and productive.

As a mentor, Cindi leads with both wisdom and heart, generously sharing her experience while encouraging others to grow in confidence and step into their potential. She has a way of guiding without overpowering, supporting without controlling, and inspiring everyone around her to be better together than they could ever be alone.

In 2001, after their youngest daughter graduated from high school, they relocated to Fargo-Moorhead. Kent and Cindi wanted to come back to Sioux Falls, and once they returned, they launched their own business, BD Promotions.

That company, which they operated for about 10 years, provided promotional products and branded apparel for regional clients. Cindi describes the business as one of their proudest accomplishments, and she credits their ability to work together as a major factor in its success.

“Besides having our two girls, that was the best thing we ever did,” Cindi shares.

Cindi and Kent worked well as business partners, and she encourages couples who have an interest in working together to consider it.

Faith has been a constant throughout their family life, and that is why Cindi feels so strongly about mentoring young people and building those relationships. Kent was raised in a deeply religious household, and while Cindi’s parents were often busy running the café and hotel on Sunday mornings, she says they made sure their children got to church.

After selling BD Promotions, Cindi worked briefly for the company that purchased it before pursuing a new opportunity. She knew Sharon Haselhoff, the General Manager at Grand Falls Casino and Golf Resort, through Sioux Falls Chamber events and community networking, and that connection ultimately led to a job offer.

She says many of her professional relationships, including those built through previous clients and networking, have continued to shape her success in her current role.

“It’s all about building those relationships,” Cindi adds. “Now, I reach out to people I used to have as clients, and they find out I’m working here and they’re like, ‘Let’s talk.’”

Outside of work, Cindi enjoys biking and walking on Sioux Falls trails and is an avid reader. She remains active in the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce and has served as a Chamber diplomat for 10 years.

Over time, she said, her confidence has grown, shaped by years of relocation, career changes, and her husband’s steady support.

“I wish I could give my younger self the confidence that I have today,” Cindi shares. “When I was younger, I didn’t have that. I always questioned what I did. I think we all have times when we feel rejected or like we are less than, but I don’t feel that way anymore. I have so much confidence now.”

It’s advice she now shares with younger professionals: preparation matters, and confidence is something that can be developed.

“If you’re nervous to be at an event, you have to prepare yourself before you walk into the room,” she notes.

Though her confidence, career and network have all grown, Cindi’s focus has been the same since day one: the people and the communities she serves.

MORE ABOUT

Cindi loves to relax with a good murder mystery novel. She’s especially fond of James Patterson’s “Alex Cross” series.

Cindi is the proud grandmother of two: Collin (13) and Adlee (7).

Cindi’s top two pieces of advice for married couples are to talk about your finances together and never go to bed angry.

Cindi and Kent had their first kiss at Mahnomen High School. “I remember it like it was yesterday,” Cindi adds.

Though her family’s hotel and café were torn down sometime in the late 1970s, Cindi says she still has a few pieces of furniture from the hotel in her home today.

Yonutz Donuts and Ice Cream

Yonutz Donuts and Ice Cream in Sioux Falls is a popular dessert spot known for its smashed donuts filled with ice cream and over-the-top milkshakes. With a fun, family-friendly vibe, it’s a go-to place for creative and indulgent sweet treats.

2802 W. 41st St. Ste A, Sioux Falls, SD 57105

Jacky’s Restaurant

Jacky’s Restaurant is a vibrant local spot serving flavorful Mexican and Guatemalan-inspired dishes in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, with popular menu items like wet burritos, fajitas, and tacos. The casual eatery offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

3101 W. 41st St., Sioux Falls, SD 57105

22TEN Kitchen Cocktails

22TEN Kitchen Cocktails in Sioux Falls is a locally owned restaurant featuring “American Eclectic” cuisine with innovative artisan dishes and everyday classics. Its full bar serves hand-crafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients alongside beer and wine, making it a great spot for dinner and drinks.

2210 W. 69th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57108

Rosie’s Café

Rosie’s Café is a beloved local diner known for its classic homestyle breakfast and lunch comfort food with a neighborhood-friendly vibe. After more than 40 years as a community favorite, the cafe has recently reopened under new ownership while still serving up hearty meals and daily specials that many locals grew up with.

2200 W. Madison St., Sioux Falls, SD 57104

Atomic Wings

Atomic Wings is a fast-casual wing spot serving fresh, hand-tossed chicken wings in a variety of bold sauces alongside sandwiches and crispy sides. Known for its laid-back vibe and flavorful menu that appeals to wing lovers and casual diners alike, it’s a go-to for a satisfying, saucy meal.

1502 E. 69th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57108

John Morrell & Co.’s roots trace back to the early 1800s in England, where the Morrell family built a successful meat business that eventually expanded through Ireland, Canada, and the American Midwest. By the late nineteenth century, Morrell had established a major presence in Ottumwa, Iowa, and was looking for additional locations that offered strong transportation access and proximity to livestock producers. Sioux Falls, with its expanding rail lines and growing agricultural economy, became a natural fit.

While the Sioux Falls plant opened in 1909, just a few years later, the facility had expanded into a full-scale packing operation, processing cattle, hogs, and sheep for regional and national markets. As the city grew, so did Morrell’s, and by the 1920s and 1930s, the plant had become one of Sioux Falls’ largest employers.

For generations of families, Morrell was more than a workplace. At its peak, the plant employed thousands of workers and played a central role in stabilizing the local economy during difficult periods, including the Great Depression. Its presence supported related industries, from rail transport to livestock markets, reinforcing Sioux Falls’ position as an agricultural center.

The plant’s long history also represents shifts in the American labor force as a whole. In the mid-1930s, Morrell became the center of one of South Dakota’s most significant labor conflicts when workers went on strike from 1935 to 1937, demanding union recognition and improved conditions. The dispute was contentious and deeply divisive, reflecting nationwide tensions as organized labor gained momentum. Labor unrest would surface again decades later, most notably in 1987, when a strike involving Morrell workers drew national attention and underscored ongoing challenges within the meatpacking industry.

By the late twentieth century, the industry itself was changing. John Morrell closed its Sioux Falls beef slaughter operations, resulting in significant job losses and uncertainty about the plant’s future. Still, the site remained a landmark, and local leaders worked closely with the company to retain its presence in the city.

A major turning point came in 1995, when John Morrell was sold to Smithfield Foods, one of the largest pork producers in the country. The purchase marked the end of the Morrell name as an independent company, but not the end of the plant itself. Under Smithfield’s ownership, the Sioux Falls facility continued operating and underwent expansions and modern efforts that increased production and solidified its role in the regional economy.

Today, the former John Morrell plant stands as a reminder of Sioux Falls industrial past and present. Its story is one of growth, labor, and adaptation; a reflection of the city itself and the generations who helped build it.

Full Circle

FROM STUDENT TO SALON SUITE OWNER

By Melissa Chinn

Megan Hall has long been a name Sioux Falls clients trust for exceptional hair artistry. As the creator and owner of 2nd Avenue Salon Suites, Megan sets the tone for a space built around creativity, independence, and elevated style.

Megan’s journey in beauty began long before she ever picked up a pair of professional shears. Growing up in the local style scene, her earliest memories include walking down the staircase of the original Stewart’s Hair School building as a young model in bridal showcases, sparking a lifelong passion for hairstyling that would shape her career.

2nd Avenue Salon Suites came to life when a friend approached Megan about opening salon suites in the historic downtown building.

She immediately recognized the deeper significance of the space, not just as a downtown location, but as the very building where she and many fellow stylists once attended Stewart’s School and learned the fundamentals of cutting, coloring, and creative technique.

What began as a place of education and early inspiration has come full circle, now offering those same professionals the opportunity to build and grow their own businesses. By bringing independent stylists back to where some of their careers began, Megan created a supportive, collaborative environment rooted in creativity, independence, and community, all while setting a new standard for personalized beauty in downtown Sioux Falls.

Corner of E 11th Street & 2nd Avenue

225 E 11th Street Sioux Falls, SD 57104

CALLIE WILSON - LUSTING EXPRESSIONS

Specializing in cosmetic enhancements including:

Permanent brows, eyeliner & lip blushing

Brow waxing, tinting, and lamination services

Skin rejuvanting + resurfacing treatments

Saline lightening for old/bad previous tattoo work

“I take immense pride in creating a relationship with each and every woman that comes into my suite. We all carry a burden or struggle in this life. My belief is we can work together to create a true masterpiece. My goal is for you to feel complete and love the reflection in the mirror. To confidently know and remember how powerful, prestigious, and fearless we all truly are!!”

CHASE COMSTOCK - THE LASHING HOUSE

After six years as a lash artist in Denver, Chase took a leap of faith and brought her passion to Sioux Falls to open The Lashing House. A space built on connection, artistry, and a true love for all things lashes.

Chase specializes in fully custom, handmade lash extension sets, meaning no two clients ever leave with the same look. Every set is carefully designed to compliment your eye shape, style, and personality.

It’s more than just lashes. It is about feeling confident, relaxed, and a little extra beautiful every time you walk out her door.

SATURDAY, MARCH 28TH from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

120 E. 4th Place Sioux Falls, SD 57104

W

e are excited to announce that, back by popular demand, we will be having our Sioux Empire Spring Closet sale! If you’re new to this local event, it’s a rare chance to shop the closets of local influencers, business professionals and socialites in the community. All the ladies agree that their industries, influencing, event planning, modeling, and entrepreneurship, bring them more clothing, shoes, decor and accessories than the average consumer. Trends are constantly changing, as are the seasons, so it is an opportunity for these ladies to make room in their closets and homes for more new and upcoming trends to share with their followers. With each sale, the selection and the quantity of everything gets a little bigger! At this event, you’ll be able to shop for clothing, shoes, jewelry, home décor, handbags and more! Many of which are brand new or barely worn.

Vendors:

Canopy by Hilton

Bloom in Color Co. Color Analysis

Crunchi Skincare & Makeup

Jane Lee Permanent Jewelry & Piercing

Mary Novak with Prairie and Wild Photography

We are thrilled to share that we are partnering again for this event with Canopy by Hilton Sioux Falls Downtown! The hotel is in the heart of The Steel District and offers a vibrant, locally inspired stay just steps from Falls Park and the best of downtown. This thoughtfully designed hotel features 214 modern guestrooms and 12 flexible meeting rooms, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Guests can enjoy locally roasted coffee and breakfast bites at Torrent Coffee Bar or wind down with handcrafted Italian dishes and cocktails at Cascata. Canopy by Hilton Sioux Falls Downtown delivers an authentic, elevated experience. If you haven’t been yet, the entire Steel District is a sight to see!

Sizes:

Tops, Jackets & Dresses: XS-3XL

Jeans, Shorts & Bottoms: 0-20

Shoes: 7-11 (1/2 sizes included)

Home Décor in all seasons

Brands featured: Lululemon, Abercrombie, H&M, Zara, Madewell, SPANX and so much more!

MEET THE HOSTS:

Erica Wilcox

LIFESTYLE INFLUENCER & CLEAN BEAUTY ADVOCATE

I’m Erica, mom, content creator, model, and clean beauty advocate behind Best Dressed Blonde. I’m a fashion enthusiast who shares my passions, purpose, and love for overall health and wellness on social media. My style could be described as: fashion-forward, pops of trendy, with lots of hues in summer colors!

BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL AND MOTHER

• BEHIND MARILYNJOAN •

My name is Marilyn Dikun, a dedicated business professional and proud mom. I balance my professional and family life with a style that is polished, practical, and always on the go. Whether at work or with my children, I love expressing myself through the latest trends while staying effortlessly put together.

@MARILYNJOAN

Marilyn Dikun Jackie Slater

LOVER OF FITNESS, FASHION AND FARMING

• JACKIEJANE.XO •

I’m Jackie, a busy mama who loves comfycute outfits, early mornings, good coffee, wellness routines, and farm life! My style is simple, neutral, and athletic, centered on everyday staples with fun pops of seasonal color.

@JACKIEJANE.XO

Kaylee Slagus

SELF LOVE FASHION INFLUENCER AND CURVE MODEL

• BEHIND KAYLEE.SLAGUS •

I’m Kaylee Slagus, a curve model and social media influencer. I promote everything related to self-love and confidence. One way I do this is through fashion, where I showcase my curvy girl style. I lean more towards a minimalistic streetwear style and comfy athleisure wear.

@ KAYLEE.SLAGUS

FEATURED CLOSETS

Color Changes

Everything.

Unlock Your Personal Palette: Why Color

by

“Confidence begins with clarity, and color brings both.”

Every day, the colors you wear communicate something about your confidence, energy, and presence Yet many of us default to “safe” shades, like black, that don’t truly showcase what makes us shine. As a two-time certified Color Analyst, I help women discover the hues that brighten their complexion, enhance their natural features, and reflect their unique beauty. Understanding your personal palette makes getting dressed easier, shopping more intentional, and your style more aligned

You are the occasion every single day The colors that flatter you aren’t just for special events They’re for morning meetings, family photos, date nights, and all the big and small moments in between Through a personalized 16-season color analysis system, we uncover the shades that elevate your natural beauty and simplify shopping, giving clarity and confidence to your wardrobe choices Discovering your colors goes beyond clothing. It is about stepping fully into who you are.

Life is brighter in color. Let’s uncover the shade om every day.

By Samantha Brockhouse

walls of the Washington Pavilion Visual Art Center in Sioux Falls now hold a conversation between mother and daughter. Becoming Midwest: Life Between is a deeply personal, multi-generational exhibition that brings together watercolor artist Judy Thompson and poet Kristin Gifford in a shared exploration of land, identity, and belonging.

Rather than illustrating one another’s work directly, the duo approached the project by looking closely at their individual practices.

“Instead of reacting to each other’s work, we stepped back to see what themes were already there,” Judy explains. “That’s what allowed the exhibition to feel honest to both of us.” Those shared ideals became the foundation for the exhibition, which includes 27 paintings and 12 poems.

Judy was raised in suburban Chicago and relocated to rural northwest Iowa more than forty years ago to work on staff at a local college. Entering a small rural community

as an outsider shaped both her life and her art. Over time, the landscape became a space of reflection. Her watercolor paintings often begin with geometric forms she notices in the land—grain bins, barns, the long line of the horizon, and the quilt-like shapes of cultivated fields. Through layered washes of color and interwoven linear elements, Judy builds compositions that feel both inviting and familiar, while exploring what it means to live within the Midwest landscape.

Kristin, Judy’s daughter, was born into that very landscape. Her poems reflect a different intimacy, one shaped by growing up within the simplicity and beauty of rural life. Some pieces represent her own voice as a

young girl observing her mother’s attempts to adapt and root herself.

“A lot of the poems live in that in-between space,” Kristin shares, “between watching and understanding, between growing up in a place and learning how it shaped you.” In sharing this work side by side, they reveal not only a landscape but the quiet evolution of a relationship shaped by it.

Throughout the gallery, their dialogue unfolds visually and emotionally. By referencing the border markers between North and South Dakota, the artists return to the idea of living between lines, between roles, between who we were and who we are becoming.

The exhibition offers a variety of creative installations. In The Locals. twenty cow pieces gather together on a green

wall, each individual yet undeniably part of a herd, a quiet metaphor for community and family alike.

Both Judy and Kristin hope viewers feel a sense of connection to the landscape, its history and to community. They hope the exhibit sparks curiosity about the in-between spaces, among roles, seasons, and stages of life, and reminds people that transformation is often supported by art that asks us to pause, reflect, and see ourselves more clearly.

Becoming Midwest: Life Between is not a nostalgic vision of place, but a living conversation between mother and daughter, belonging and becoming. This exhibit is on display at the Washington Pavilion Visual Art Center in the Bates Trimble Gallery until August 23rd.

At Mitchell Technical College, your tomorrow begins today. With more than 35 career-driven programs, you’ll learn by doing, not just listening. From hands on labs to real-world experience, every step prepares you for a high-demand career.

This fall, take the next step toward your future. There’s no better way than experiencing Mitchell Tech for yourself. Visit us in person or online and see how you can get ready at Mitchell Tech.

Tax Season Tactics:

MAKE YOUR INVESTMENTS WORK SMARTER

By Kathryn Swanson, Financial Advisor

The standard filing time for taxes is quickly approaching. Just because it’s 2026 doesn’t mean there aren’t changes you can make that will affect your taxes in 2025. Some tax strategies can still be taken advantage of up until the filing deadline of April 15. Other opportunities needed to be established by the end of the year to apply to your 2025 taxes. Working with an advisor ensures your financial plan stays on track, no matter what year you’re in.

• “What’s the difference?”

• “Which is better?”

• “What do you recommend?”

• “Should I switch?”

These are questions I hear every day in regard to Roth versus pre-tax retirement savings. Many people do not know the difference. Those who do are unsure of which account type is best. And even people with accounts wonder if they would be better off making a change. Let’s get rid of some of the confusion and bring some clarity to the conversation.

What is the difference?

Pre-tax money is money saved before paying taxes on it. This money usually cannot be used penalty-free until age 59.5. Many people’s 401(k)s are set up as pre-tax. Money saved towards retirement is subtracted from your taxable income, therefore reducing your taxes for the current tax year. You then invest the money to see growth. When you retire and take withdrawals from your pre-tax IRA or 401(k), you typically owe ordinary income taxes on the full amount, including your original contributions plus any growth.

It is commonly assumed that individuals may be in a lower tax bracket in retirement; however, this is not guaranteed. Good savings for retirement, supplemental income, or income tax bracket changes may mean your tax bracket in retirement is not lower.

Roth IRAs were introduced in the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 by Senator William Roth.1 Roth accounts allow taxpayers to pay taxes on their money right now and put it into an account to grow tax-free. Qualified withdrawals, typically in retirement, may be received tax-free, subject to IRS rules.

Pre-tax accounts: You pay taxes on the full amount later; Roth accounts: You pay taxes now and pay no taxes on the growth.

Which is better?

Neither the traditional pre-tax IRA nor the Roth IRA is universally better than the other. The unknown tax-bracket in retirement, as well as the unknown growth rate in the account each year mean both IRAs and Roth IRAs have their place in different financial plans.

Current income is the first factor in determining whether you should save pre-tax or Roth money. Pre-tax IRAs and Roth IRAs have income limits for who can fund them. Other strategies for Roth accounts can be used in these scenarios. Additionally, your current income determines your tax bracket, which is a determining factor as to whether a pre-tax or a Roth IRA will be more advantageous. Your entire financial picture also plays a role in which account should be used. Finally, your age and risk tolerance play a part in the recommendation decision. The primary advantage of a Roth account is the tax-free growth. If you have a low risk tolerance and plan to withdraw the money next year, the advantage is not as high as for someone looking to invest aggressively for the next 20 years.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as individualized tax or investment advice.

Should I make a change?

You may still be eligible to contribute for 2025 to either a Roth or a pre-tax IRA, subject to IRS rules and eligibility requirements. Consult your tax professional regarding your specific situation.

If you don’t currently have either type of account, now is the perfect time to start. Schedule a call today to set up a strategy that positions you for confidence in 2026 and beyond.

1. dreamwork.financial/brief-history-roth-accounts

Investment advisory services offered through Alternative Investment Advisors, LLC. (AIA), an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. AIA and its advisors do not render tax, legal or accounting advice. Fixed insurance products and services are offered through Swenson Wealth Management. Swenson Wealth Management is not a registered investment advisor and is not a subsidiary or affiliate of Alternative Investment Advisors, LLC. Swenson Wealth Management and their individually licensed and appointed insurance agents, and AIA are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any government agency.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization’s initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.

Helping you create confidence in your finances

Finances, economics, and investing have fascinated me since my very first Econ 101 class. Over time, I discovered how overwhelming these topics can feel for many people and recognized the critical importance of having someone walk alongside you in your financial journey. My passion for helping others understand their financial picture and reduce financial stress drives my work as a financial advisor. I enjoy collaborating with clients to make educated, confident financial decisions that align with their life goals. Recently, I passed the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® exam, an integral step toward becoming a CFP® Professional, representing the highest standard in financial planning. I’d be honored to partner with you as you work toward your financial goals. Reach out today to start creating a financial plan that instills you with confidence moving forward.

HAPPY HOUR

3-6PM

Living Life Together Living Life Together

WHERE HOME BEGINS

At Peaceful Pines, we believe senior living should feel like home, warm, welcoming, and full of life. Our communities are designed to support independence, foster meaningful relationships, and celebrate each person’s story.

MOMENTS THAT MAKE LIFE MEANINGFUL

From everyday moments to milestone celebrations, life at Peaceful Pines is shaped by connection, purpose, and joy. Whether it’s sharing a laugh, trying something new, or simply feeling supported, we’re living life together, every day.

Communities Across South Dakota

Rooted in South Dakota. Built on connection. Where life is shared, celebrated, and lived fully

BROOKINGS

FORT PIERRE

HURON

MADISON

MILBANK

MITCHELL - (Coming Fall 2026)

RAPID CITY

SPEARFISH

SPRING RENEWAL STARTS WITH YOUR SKIN: CUSTOMIZED LASER RESURFACING FOR A FRESH SEASON AHEAD

Spring is a season of renewal and a time to shed the dull layers of winter to reveal brighter, healthier skin. As the days grow longer and routines begin to shift, now is the perfect time to focus on skin rejuvenation and long-term results. For patients seeking dramatic improvement in skin tone, texture, and overall clarity, advanced laser resurfacing offers a powerful way to reset and refresh.

At Plastic Surgery Associates of South Dakota, Sciton TRL (Tunable Resurfacing Laser) and ProFractional treatments are thoughtfully customized to help patients achieve their unique skin goals safely, comfortably, and with lasting results.

RESURFACING THAT GOES BEYOND THE SURFACE

Sciton TRL is a fully ablative laser resurfacing treatment designed to address deeper skin concerns, including fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, uneven texture, acne scarring, and overall skin laxity. By precisely removing damaged layers of skin, TRL stimulates collagen production and encourages the skin to regenerate smoother, firmer, and more youthful over time.

ProFractional laser resurfacing takes a different, but equally effective approach. This fractional treatment targets a portion of the skin while leaving surrounding tissue intact, allowing for significant improvement with a more flexible recovery timeline. ProFractional is ideal for patients looking to refine texture, soften lines, and improve scars while maintaining customizable depth and downtime.

Together, these technologies allow providers to tailor treatment intensity based on each patient’s skin condition, goals, and lifestyle.

A TRULY CUSTOMIZED EXPERIENCE

No two patients, and no two skin concerns, are the same. That’s why laser resurfacing at Plastic Surgery Associates of South Dakota is never a one-size-fits-all experience. During the consultation, your provider will evaluate your skin, discuss your goals, and design a personalized treatment plan that may include TRL, ProFractional, or a combination of both!

Patients can also choose the level of comfort that best suits their needs. Depending on the treatment depth and individual preference, options include general anesthesia, local anesthesia with sedation, or Pro-Nox™ (nitrous oxide) for added relaxation. This flexibility ensures each patient feels supported and comfortable throughout their treatment.

TIMING MATTERS: WHY SPRING IS IDEAL

Spring is an excellent time to plan laser resurfacing. With fewer outdoor commitments than summer and reduced sun exposure compared to warmer months, spring time allows patients to heal properly while preparing their skin to look refreshed and radiant for the months ahead. Many patients enjoy completing their recovery just in time for early summer events, vacations, and celebrations.

LONG-TERM RESULTS, RENEWED CONFIDENCE

Laser resurfacing is not just about immediate improvement; it’s an investment in long-term skin health. By stimulating collagen production and addressing damage at a deeper level, TRL and ProFractional treatments deliver results that continue to improve over time, helping skin look smoother, clearer, and more resilient.

Spring is about new beginnings, and your skin deserves the same opportunity to renew and thrive.

At Plastic Surgery Associates of South Dakota, advanced technology meets personalized care to help you step into the new season with confidence, and skin that reflects it!

By Lauren Johnson | Photography by

HorsePower horse therapy began in 1985 with a simple dream in a family backyard in Hartford, South Dakota.

Sally Griggs' daughter, Beckie Jo Wetzler, returned home to Gregory from studying occupational therapy and equine therapy with a vision for her community. She knew people who could benefit from the healing power of horses and asked her parents if she could start a therapeutic riding program on their acreage.

"You can't say no to your daughter," says Mindy Hill, HorsePower's executive director. "She had the dream, and her parents said, 'Okay, let's go.'"

The program grew steadily. About 25 years later, HorsePower moved to Cottonwood Stables in Sioux Falls, expanding from a summer program to a year-round operation. Over four decades, countless instructors, volunteers, riders and families have shaped the organization.

"Every individual has contributed to this beautiful organization with their care and new ideas to spread our wings," Mindy shares. "Every person has touched HorsePower in a special way."

In late 2024, HorsePower found a larger space at the Benson Equestrian Center in Baltic, owned by Laura Benson. The facility offered a large arena, ample stall space, and most importantly, a willingness to accommodate accessibility needs. HorsePower officially opened at the new location in spring 2025.

Two months after moving, a severe windstorm destroyed one horse shelter and injured two horses, leaving the program with only one horse at the start of the spring session. Laura Benson stepped in again and allowed HorsePower to use her horses so the session could continue uninterrupted.

That same year, the community showed up in a big way for not one, but two fundraising events: Harnessing Hope and the seventh annual

Blue Jeans and Bling, to celebrate the organization's 40th anniversary.

"Our daughter, Avery, was born with cerebral palsy. We were able to begin hippotherapy when she was 2 years old, and she's 11 now," Mindy explains. "We cannot imagine being able to afford this therapy for her, so almost eight years ago, we proposed a fundraiser, Blue Jeans & Bling, to assist in supporting our Scholarship Fund. At last year’s event, we celebrated our 40th Anniversary to support riders, recognize our volunteers, and raise money for the organization.”

For Mindy, the mission is deeply personal. Avery spent most of her early life in therapy rooms surrounded by clinic walls. HorsePower offered something entirely different.

"The benefits of this environment, the horses, the sensory input, the unpredictability, the smells, the touch mean you're doing therapy without even realizing you're doing therapy," Mindy adds.

She recalls hearing from parents about children who were previously nonverbal who began making sounds after riding.

"To see and hear those stories really hits home," Mindy shares. "The joy on their faces, and on the kids' faces, is magic."

One moment stays with her: "I asked my daughter what her favorite part of therapy was. I expected her to say she loved her horse or riding. But she said, 'When I'm on my horse, it makes me feel free.'"

Avery uses a walker and a wheelchair. Being lifted onto a horse gives her a sense of power and control she doesn't experience elsewhere.

HorsePower offers four primary therapeutic experiences: hippotherapy, therapeutic riding, ground work, and

independent riding. Each program meets clients where they are, whether working on balance, communication, confidence or simply the joy of connecting with an animal.

The organization also offers Veterans retreats; nonmounted sessions blending natural horsemanship, animal psychology, and therapeutic principles to help former service members learn, reconnect and heal.

HorsePower serves individuals with physical, cognitive and emotional challenges, from young children to older adults. The organization partners with Special Olympics and offers multiple sessions throughout the year, including an equestrian event in Watertown on July 18 and a summer showcase August 8 at HorsePower.

As HorsePower looks ahead, volunteers are needed. Each session may require up to three people per rider, including an instructor plus two volunteers. No horse experience is required, and HorsePower provides all training.

"If you can commit to one time a week for eight weeks, you're in," Mindy affirms. "We love and adore our volunteers."

For many volunteers, the relationships are life-changing. One of Avery's longtime volunteers said it was meaningful to watch her grow from timid and unsure to brave and confident.

Visit www.horsepowersf.com to learn how you can get invovled.

Peace of Mind

Starts with Information

Peace of mind rarely arrives all at once. More often, it begins quietly with understanding.

For many families, questions about aging, independence, and future care surface gradually. They might appear after a holiday visit, a longer conversation, or simply time spent noticing daily routines. These moments do not always bring urgency, but they do bring awareness. And awareness is where peace of mind begins.

Peace of mind is knowing your loved one is safe, supported, and never alone.

Noticing change in a loved one can feel unsettling. Families may wonder whether what they are seeing is typical aging, temporary stress, or something that deserves more attention. The uncertainty can be heavy, especially when no one wants to overreact or cause unnecessary worry.

Seeking information is not a sign that something is wrong. It is a sign of care.

Families who take time to learn more often feel more grounded and confident. Understanding options early removes pressure and allows conversations to happen calmly, without crisis driving decisions.

Assumptions about assisted living are common. Many people picture outdated settings or fear that support automatically means a loss of independence. In reality, modern assisted living is designed to support independence, not replace it.

Learning what assisted living actually looks like today can be reassuring. From private apartments and nutritious dining, to engaging activities and personalized support, information replaces fear with facts.

When families understand what is available, they are better equipped to talk openly and make thoughtful plans together.

Why Seeing it in Person Matters

There is a difference between reading about support and experiencing it firsthand. Touring an assisted living community allows families to see daily life in motion. It offers a chance to observe how residents interact, how staff provide care, and how the environment feels.

For many families, a tour answers questions they did not even know how to ask. It transforms abstract ideas into something tangible and understandable.

Most importantly, touring together helps families stay aligned. Everyone sees the same spaces, hears the same information, and walks away with a shared understanding.

At StoneyBrook Suites Assisted Living, our communities are built around comfort, connection, and personalized support, all while honoring independence and dignity.

A tour is simply an opportunity to ask questions, explore options, and gain clarity. Many families find that visiting together turns uncertainty into confidence.

Explore the quality of life available for your loved one at StoneyBrook Suites. Schedule a personal tour today.

StoneyBrook Suites Assisted Living

Sioux Falls 605-373-0013

Dakota Dunes 605-242-0013

Brookings 605-627-4445

Huron 605-352-0014

Watertown 605-882-0013

By Ingrid Hayward

You’ve booked your venue. You may have secured your photographer. The Pinterest boards are full, and now you’re wondering what comes next.

That’s where Details Matter by Amber and her expert team comes in.

Planning a wedding is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming once the big pieces are in place. There are timelines to build, vendors to coordinate, layouts to design, and a hundred little details you don’t want to forget. Details Matter by Amber is for couples who want more than someone to be there on their wedding day. It’s for couples who want a steady, experienced hand making sure everything comes together exactly as it should.

Amber meets you wherever you are in the planning process. Maybe you need help refining your vision. Maybe you need assistance with vendor communication, creating a seamless timeline, organizing ceremony flow, or designing how your space will look and feel. Maybe you just want reassurance that nothing is slipping through the cracks. Details Matter by Amber customizes their services based on the level of support you need and want.

On the rehearsal day and wedding day, Amber’s team is there to bring it all to life by overseeing vendors, guiding guests, managing décor setup, keeping everything on schedule, and quietly handling any issues before they ever reach you. Her goal is for you to be fully present, no checking your phone, no answering vendor questions, no worrying about what’s next, just soaking in the moments that matter.

Amber describes herself as more of an event manager than a coordinator.

“I’m deeply involved in making sure everything and everyone comes together smoothly. It’s about more than schedules; it’s about managing the entire experience so my clients can be fully present. I always try to anticipate problems before they happen, so that on the day of the event, small issues never become bigger ones,” Amber shares.

“I also take pride in being a strong vendor partner. Working collaboratively with other professionals ensures every event runs seamlessly and beautifully.”

At the end of the day, it’s about providing peace of mind and the freedom to truly enjoy one of the most important days of your life.

Living like royalty at FOUNDER’S CROSSING

Imagine starting each day with more freedom, more choices and more time for what you love – all in a community that makes life easier.

Meet twin home residents Terry and Diane Oppold –who are doing just that. Their neighbors feel like friends and every day brings moments to look forward to.

They have more time than ever for one of their lifelong hobbies, too.

“I’ve been having fun with cards all my life,” says Terry. “I grew up playing Pitch and Royal Rummy.”

The Oppolds, who have been married 55 years, moved to Good Samaritan almost three years ago and couldn’t be happier with their senior living community.

They often gather to play card games with family, sometimes hosting everyone in their twin home.

“We have a lot of laughter while we’re doing that,” Terry says.

Although they don’t get too competitive, certain games can bring out that spirit.

“It is really fun to beat Terry sometimes,” says Diane.

Hosting gives them a chance to cultivate connection and joy.

I think any kind of an interaction where people can share a pastime just helps bring people closer together,” says Terry.

Being part of a senior living community has made it easy for the Oppolds to host family and to make new friends. They appreciate so much about their community.

“We probably started talking about moving 10 years ago. We knew we were getting older and it would take time for us to decide,” says Terry.

And now Terry is grateful he hasn’t had to worry about home maintenance since they moved in.

“I feel relaxed here because I don’t have that pressure of when something breaks, I have to fix it. I don’t even have to put salt in the water softener,” says Terry.

The couple feels confident that in moving to Good Samaritan, they played a strong hand.

There is such a helpful spirit among the people that live and work here. The employees are extremely friendly and welcoming,” says Diane.

It’s about living life the way they want to.

At Founder’s Crossing, you’ll find this freedom and more – every single day.

Who says this chapter can’t be your best yet?

Obesity is a problem across the nation, and it’s no different for Veterans. Several factors can be attributed to this problem, such as diet and lack of physical activity. The Managing Overweight/ Obesity for Veterans Everywhere Program, also known as MOVE, is the VA’s answer to helping Veterans.

“The program is designed to help Veterans lose weight, keep it off, and improve their health,” states Amy Eisenbeisz, Sioux Falls VA Health Care System MOVE program coordinator.

The program was developed to focus on healthy eating, physical

activity, and behavioral changes to achieve and maintain weight loss.

A Veteran can participate in the MOVE Program at the Sioux Falls VA Health Care System individually or in a group setting, in-person, virtually, or through an app.

“No matter how a Veteran participates in the MOVE program, they receive education and support to make lifestyle changes to improve their health and well-being,” shares Amy.

Tell us why you think that special someone should be Queen for a Day by sending in a 200 word max story and photo to hello@michelscom.com by March 31, 2026. Clips of various stories will be chosen to run in the April edition of Empire, with one winner to be ‘crowned’ in May. An amazing prize package perfect for a Queen will be awarded to the winner! FOR A DAY Have a mom, daughter, grandma, friend, sister or wife that you think deserves to be queen for a day?

PRESENTING SPONSOR

By Sarah Krecklow

For many adult children, the realization begins quietly.

It may be expired groceries in the refrigerator, difficulty following familiar recipes, a missed appointment, or a parent who no longer enjoys activities they once loved. These moments rarely happen all at once. Instead, they appear gradually, leaving families unsure whether what they are seeing is normal aging or a sign that additional support may be needed.

Experts encourage families to look for patterns instead of isolated events. Subtle signs may include changes in routine, difficulty managing medications, increased forgetfulness, or a home that feels harder to maintain. Social withdrawal can also signal a need for more connection and structure, both of which play an important role in overall well-being.

More families are beginning conversations earlier, not because something is wrong, but because they want to protect independence and quality of life before challenges grow. Aging brings change, and recognizing when support may be helpful is often a proactive step rather than a reactive one. Starting these conversations early allows families to move forward with clarity and compassion, turning what can feel like a difficult transition into an opportunity to gain connection, support, and reassurance along the way.

These moments can be emotional for adult children. Many carry an unspoken promise: I said I would always take care of them myself. Along with love often comes guilt and uncertainty. Asking for help is not failure. In many cases, it helps protect independence while supporting safety and daily quality of life.

Support today looks different from what it once did. Care communities do not resemble those from when our parents were young. Families are discovering that support varies by life stage and care needs. Some begin with day programs or respite support that provide structure and social engagement. Others explore an assisted living lifestyle that blends independence with personalized assistance. For individuals experiencing memory changes, a memory care neighborhood like the Woodlands at Peaceful Pines offers familiarity and consistency designed around dignity and connection. When health needs become more

“WHEN FAMILIES ASK FOR HELP, IT DOES NOT MEAN A PARENT IS LOSING INDEPENDENCE. OFTEN, IT HELPS THEM STAY INDEPENDENT LONGER.”

complex, additional medical support can provide reassurance for both individuals and families. Understanding the options available often reduces anxiety. Instead of viewing support as a single decision, families can begin to see it as a flexible path that evolves over time.

Independence does not disappear when support increases. It evolves. With the right environment, many older adults experience renewed confidence, stronger social connections, and a greater peace of mind. At communities like Peaceful Pines Senior Living, support centers on relationships and meaningful engagement. Residents are encouraged to maintain independence while knowing assistance is available when needed, creating a strong sense of belonging and purpose.

Many families are surprised by how relationships improve once caregiving is no longer carried alone. Visits become less about completing tasks and more about enjoying time together. Adult children return to being sons and daughters again, and relationships feel lighter and more connected.

Having the right guidance can make all the difference. Local aging resources, support groups, healthcare professionals, and trusted educational tools help families better understand their options and move forward with confidence. Resource libraries, including those offered through Peaceful Pines, provide practical support as families begin exploring next steps, reminding them they do not have to navigate this season alone.

At Lake Area Technical College, our Computer Information Systems programs prepare you to design, connect, and create the technology behind today’s world.

Whether you see yourself building bold visuals, securing complex networks, or writing the code that powers it all, you’ll gain hands-on experience from day one.

Start building a future that connects. Visit lakeareatech.edu.

Care

MADE FOR EVERY WOMAN

While you’re taking on the world, we’re here to take care of you in the Sioux Falls area. From routine checkups to specialty services, you can partner with our team of providers for care at every stage of life.

Find care to match the moment you’re in with services for:

• Menopause care

• Menstrual concerns

• Pelvic health

• Reproductive health

• Sexual health

• Preventive screenings

• Adolescent gynecology

Visit sanfordhealth.org/sfwomens to learn more.