For those into the arts, catch a holiday performance of The Nuncracker—a humorous play about a group of nuns attempting to put together a rendition of the classic ballet. Purchase tickets for showings on December 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, and 13 at The Matthews Opera House & Arts Center.

Spearfish is known for nature and outdoor recreation, and adventure enthusiasts can experience what the area has to offer with fat-tire biking or snowshoeing, depending on the weather. Three peaks are around for hiking with Spearfish Mountain, Lookout Mountain, and Crow Peak Mountain.

Visitors can stay warm in their car and simply drive around to see the frost on the trees and some wildlife in Spearfish Canyon.

“There’s a little bit for everyone to get out and get in the spirit of the winter holiday,” said Caldwell.

The town is also home to about 60 restaurants and eateries.

“Our town is big on being ‘foodies.’” said Caldwell. “Spearfish has a lot of farm-to-fork options and a wide variety of cuisine options.”

Guests have a variety of scenarios for what they’re craving, whether it’s a nice sit-down steakhouse, delicious pasta, Latin cuisine, or Americana style.

Spearfish is also home to three breweries spread throughout town. Plus, there are some cocktail bars around the downtown district that create specialty drinks, including holiday specials like a classic Hot Toddy.

Twelve local coffee shops boast eclectic drinks as well, along with great pastries and deli-style options.

“We have a new bakery in town called Ally’s Eats, which would be a perfect way to get your sweet treat fix for the holiday season—even for those who live the gluten-free life,” said Caldwell. “On that line of sweet treats, Leones’ Creamery has a weekly rotating ice cream menu, which has many festive flavors to try out.”

“Spearfish has so many food offerings, I can always find something that hits the spot every time.”

Phoebe Caldwell

A few other newer shoutouts include the speakeasy, Tucked Tie, which specializes in a wide range of cocktail offerings. Aruma Tacos & Tequilas recently opened, with a patio view of Spearfish Canyon that is “second-to-none.”

“Although we seem to be a smaller town, we have the culinary options of a small city,” said Caldwell.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT VISITSPEARFISH.COM+

The post Merry Moments // Celebrating in Spearfish first appeared on 605 Magazine.

For almost 30 years, the SDSU College of Nursing, College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions, and Respiratory Care students have been learning in separate facilities in Sioux Falls. In those three decades there’s been growth, expansion, and an evolution of programs—the necessity for more space became apparent.

In 2024, Avera Health gifted the SDSU Alumni & Foundation the new space that would become the Metro Center, which was formerly a grocery store and medical equipment facility. The renovated education complex opened this past September just in time for the new semester right in the heart of the city at 33rd Street and Minnesota Avenue.

Assistant professor and Healthcare Simulation Center (HCSC) director Alyssa Zweifel Ph.D., RN, CHSE says various simulation-based learning modalities are deployed, utilizing manikin-based standardized patient and multi-modality scenarios, along with virtual reality, screen-based, gaming, and telehealth simulations.

Space to Learn

The Metro Center encompasses over 44,000 square feet.

According to Zweifel, the new onsite scenarios and simulations have gained international attention. Through presenting at conferences, being in publications, participating in multi-site research studies, and active involvement in international healthcare simulation societies, their educational practices have also become world-renowned and recognized.

The aforementioned societies include Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH), International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning (INACSL), and the Association of Standardized Patient Educators (ASPE).

With full accreditation through the Society for Simulation in Healthcare in Teaching/Education since 2022, the HSCS allows for students to practice skills and experience real-life healthcare situations in a controlled, safe environment.

“Ensuring we can train future healthcare professionals to be practice-ready and support patient safety at the same time is so important to nursing education,” added Zweifel.

Led by experienced facilitators, the simulation scenarios provide students with an active learning environment to practice care while learning from one another. Simulations are followed by a debriefing session allowing for further reflection, discussion, and a solidified understanding of what they experienced.

“Simulation-based learning guarantees experiences we cannot guarantee students will get during clinical experiences—some they might not even see in their first year of nursing practice,” said Zweifel.

Students experience various limitations when practicing in healthcare settings, including access to specific diagnosis or patient situations, limited clinical sites and nursing faculties, and nursing shortages, resulting in less time for students on the units actively learning.

Assistant dean for cooperative programs, Robin Arends DNP, CNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, says the Metro Center diligently creates more opportunities for students, while actively responding to the ever-changing workforce needs.

“Students have more opportunities for hands-on learning and are exposed to a variety of technologies designed to enhance their educational experience,” said Arends. “These changes have created a more interactive and application focused learning environment, better preparing students to demonstrate competence and transition successfully into the workforce.”

Arends describes a shift in academics toward competency based learning, where students demonstrate their ability to integrate knowledge, applying it through practical skills rather than proving factual knowledge on exams. The Metro Center creates an interactive learning environment, offering more chances for hands-on learning and exposure to new technology.

Students are able to earn their BSN through two different tracks based on their educational background and previous preparation, which allows for greater flexibility and access, according to Arends. Standard and accelerated programs are available, along with master degrees, DNPs, and PhDs.

“Access to education is essential for students to successfully complete their programs of study and achieve their professional goals. The Metro Center helps expand that access.”

ROBIN ARENDS

EDUCATIONAL PATHWAYS FOR STUDENTS AT THE

SDSU Metro Center

Nursing: BSN, DNP, MSN, PhD, Undergraduate, Graduate Certificates, Medical Laboratory Science, Phlebotomy.

Pharmacy: Pharm.D., Pharmaceutical Sciences, Community-Based Pharmacy Residency.

Public Health: Biostatistics, Environmental Health, Epidemiology, Health Services Administration, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Respiratory Care.

Peer collaboration accompanied by up-close skill development, high-tech classrooms, and direct access to academic counselors and faculty are all vital components of how the Metro Center functions.

“Students benefit from increased interaction with colleagues in the College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions, supporting interprofessional learning,” said Arends. “In addition, the Metro Center will serve as an important access point for individuals interested in pursuing careers in health-related fields.”

The collective, team-based nature of the Metro Center helps strengthen and build deeper partnerships throughout the community beyond Brookings and across disciplines, not only uplifting students, but the level of care students will provide as eventual professionals.

Associate dean for student services Jim Clem, Pharm.D. is in his 35th year as a College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions professor. He says the new center is a game changer for the programs.

“The design of the spaces in the building was not only planned for current educational needs, but also for adaptation for future education delivery approaches,” clarified Clem.

The pharmacy program, which has had a presence in Sioux Falls since 1997, greatly benefits from the ability to send students to community and hospital pharmacies in the Sioux Falls region during the third year of the program, Clem says. This allows students to apply what they learned in a real world environment.

“One of the things I truly cherish about our college is the excellence our students and graduates have achieved over the years,” said Clem. “Our pharmacy students are some of the best pharmacy graduates in the nation.”

According to Clem, SDSU leadership knew more space was needed for the health care education programs and wanted the programs to learn at a single location.

“Through their strong leadership, we are now enjoying the benefits of their vision,” added Clem.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is helping students achieve their dreams and lifelong career goals.”

Jim Clem

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT SDSTATE.EDU+

The post Revamped Healthcare Education // SDSU Metro Center first appeared on 605 Magazine.

Downtown itself is covered in majestic, twinkling lights with locals and visitors alike gallivanting down the sidewalks with shopping bags and warm drinks in hand.

“Downtown Rapid City has that small-town Christmas feel, especially at Main Street Square,” said Meyer. “Kids and families are out ice skating, people are grabbing hot cocoa, and everyone ends up gathered around the enormous holiday tree. This time of year always reminds me how much I love this community.”

Winter Market at Main Street Square is an event highlight happening November 28 from 1-5 p.m. Patrons can shop local vendors, watch the skaters (or participate), see the community tree light up, and stay downtown for the Festival of Lights Parade with more than 30,000 spectators at 6 p.m.

At this year’s Winter Market there will be ice sculpture carvings created by local artists throughout downtown with a sculpture photoop setup at Main Street.

The rest of the city has other holiday happenings, like Storybook Island’s Christmas Nights of Light from 5:30-8:30 p.m., which Meyer dubs a “can’t miss.”

“The whole park is covered in over 20 miles of lights, and there’s music, train rides, the carousel, and visits from Santa Claus on select nights,” said Meyer.

The event is also one of Storybook Island’s largest fundraising events for the season to ensure the attraction remains free during summer months.

“THERE’S A FEELING YOU GET WHEN THE SNOW IS FALLING, DOWNTOWN IS GLOWING WITH TWINKLING LIGHTS, AND THE HILLS ARE COVERED IN WHITE WHERE YOU KNOW YOU’RE GOING TO FEEL NOSTALGIC FOR THE MOMENT YOU’RE IN.”

callie meyer

Christmas at the Chapel is also a beautiful tradition at the replica of the Borgund Stavkirke of Lardal, Norway at 3788 Chapel Lane. Open on select dates in December, watch as the unique architecture comes alive with lights in the woods.

The city also offers a wide variety of food, drinks, and entertainment to enjoy during the holiday season. Catch a showing of It’s a Wonderful Life at the Elks Theatre downtown on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

“Popcorn from the Elks Theatre is a bucket list item all on its own,” said Meyer.

Coffee shops like Essence of Coffee, Speed Goat Express Coffee, or Alternative Fuel are there for a caffeine kick or a light snack. For more substance, grab a smash burger from Dakota Meat Company, a Mashed Potato Pizza from Independent Ale House, or warm up with some noodles from Bokujō Ramen.

If a locally-brewed beer sounds like it would hit the spot, Firehouse Brewing Company, Hay Camp Brewing Company, and
Woodland Republic Brewing & Blending are a few great options where you can raise a glass on a winter’s day.

Cocktails more your speed? Juniper at Vertex Sky Bar atop Hotel Alex Johnson has both talented mixologists and one of the best views of the city 10 stories up with a heated outdoor patio. Nearby, Windsor Block Bar also has a vast menu with carefully-curated cocktails and mocktails.

For a full sit-down experience, a city favorite is Tally’s Silver Spoon. The menu is inspired by local flavors and is made with seasonal ingredients. Guests can order off the regular menu or select the Indecision Menu.

“[For the Indecision Menu], your table chooses if you want between two to five courses, and the chefs will create a tasting menu for you,” said Meyer. “I’ve never had the same tasting menu twice, and I’ve never been disappointed with the experience Actually, I’m only disappointed if I don’t save room for the ice cream sampler from their dessert menu.”

A RAPID HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Itinerary Curated by Visit Rapid City

FRIDAY
Check into a downtown hotel, bundle up, and walk to dinner. Afterward, make your way over to Main Street Square and lace up your ice skates for a spin around the outdoor rink. If you’re in town before the New Year, the tree will be lit up, holiday music will be playing through the speakers, and you’ll be amongst skaters of all skill-levels, so there’s no judgement if you’re not a pro on the ice. It really does feel like a scene out of a Hallmark movie. After you turn in your skates, make sure you look at the decorated storefront windows on the walk back to your hotel.

SATURDAY
Grab breakfast and spend the morning downtown. Stop into Prairie Edge & Sioux Trading Post, walk through the galleries at Dahl Arts Center, and pop into local shops along the way. You can’t leave downtown without grabbing a treat from Chubby Chipmunk. Their hand-dipped chocolates are hard to beat as a gift, so get a box for someone on your list (and probably one for yourself).

It’s worth your time to take a drive up to Dinosaur Park as the sun starts to set. From the top, you can see the whole city with the Black Hills behind it. From there, you’ll want to head to Storybook Island for Christmas Nights of Light. After you make your way through the park, you’ll be ready to warm up and have dinner. Make your way back downtown for some pub fare at Thirsty’s Burgers & Beer or channel the energy of a warmer climate at Ma Caulli–a family-run Mexican restaurant.

SUNDAY
Sleep in, grab a caramel roll from Colonial House, and then set the GPS to the 1880 Train Holiday Express in Hill City. The fresh snow on the pines casts a quiet, calming spell across the landscape, making your one-hour round trip train ride through the southern Hills feel almost ethereal.

Then there’s the shopping. With options to cover any holiday wish list, patrons can check out places like Urban Glow Candle Co. Whether it’s in-studio or online, shoppers can choose a vessel, pick their scent, and personalize the label using an interactive tool.

Urban Glow Candle Co. is open seven days a week, and in-studio sessions require a reservation. Candles take roughly an hourand-a-half to two hours to set, which gives a good excuse to go explore downtown while you wait.

“During the holidays, I love that our shop can be both something to do together and something you get to take home,” said owner Sarah McCormick. “We see friends, families, couples, and coworkers come in, and I think there’s something special about giving someone an experience or spending that time creating something together instead of just buying another gift.”

“I GREW UP IN RAPID CITY, SO THERE’S SOMETHING REALLY SPECIAL ABOUT EXPERIENCING DOWNTOWN DURING THE HOLIDAYS NOW AS A BUSINESS OWNER.”

sarah mccormick

Who’s Hobby House is a local gem, says Meyer, and is hard to miss downtown with its historic neon sign. With around 40,000 items in the store, there’s always something new to find. The shop has everything from high-end RC cars and planes to building kits, educational gifts, and hobbies many haven’t thought about in years.

“Adults get the nostalgia factor, and kids will give you a wish-list a mile long,” said Meyer.

Clancy Kingsbury is a third generation owner, and Who’s Hobby House is celebrating 76 years in business.

“One of the business slogans my grandparents used was, ‘A hobby family is a happy family,’” said Kingsbury. “We are once again seeing entire families involved with a particular hobby, such as model railroading or individual members of the family enjoying their own unique hobby.”

Owner of Whim and Wise Sasha Campbell opened a mercantile filled with women’s clothing, home décor, and gifts. Products range from perfume, tea-towels, charcuterie boards, glassware, shower scrubs, and “about a hundred other things in between.”

“You’ll find everything from complete outfits to witty cards, books, little luxuries, and gifts with personality—things that feel special, spark conversation, or simply make someone smile,” said Campbell.

“IF YOU’RE SHOPPING FOR SOMEONE WHO ALREADY HAS EVERY THING, MY FAVORITE ADVICE IF DON’T BUY THEM SOMETHING THEY NEED. BUY THEM SOMETHING THEY WOULDN’T HAVE PICKED OUT FOR THEMSELVES, BUT WILL ABSOLUTELY LOVE.”

sasha campbell

For something sparkly, Neugebauer’s Jewelry Design & Services has been serving the area since 1945. Its building downtown used to be the Pennington County Bank, and the architecture is almost just as stunning as the jewelry inside the store, says Meyer.

“They carry designers like Simon G. Jewelry, Fana, A.JAFFE, and Allison-Kaufman Company, but what I love most is the personal side of what they do,” she continued.

The team at Neugebauer’s makes the process of custom designing a piece that’s completely one of a kind a welcoming experience. They
can also work with clients on repairing a family heirloom so it can be given another life “and loved all over again.”

Shopping Guide

neugebauers.com
urbanglowcandleco.com
whimandwise.com
whoshobby.com

“If you want to make this Christmas truly memorable, give them a gift that lasts,” said owner and sales manager Madeline Maufort. “Jewelry conveys a meaningful message, much like a keepsake card they can carry with them every day. Whether it’s a new piece of jewelry or a family heirloom in need of repair, Neugebauer’s is here to help you continue your story.”

Whether it’s for shopping, holiday events, festive food and drinks, or to simply get into the seasonal spirit, Rapid City has it all.

“There’s no one big event or experience that encapsulates the magical experience of winter in Rapid City,” said Meyer. “It’s the summation of all the little moments.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT VISITRAPIDCITY.COM+

The post Holiday Cheer // Feeling Festive in Rapid City first appeared on 605 Magazine.

Sometimes things in the universe align, and that’s what chief operating officer of the Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium Audrey Otto-Pepper says happened with the Sioux Falls Butterfly House & Aquarium and Great Plains Zoo.

The Butterfly House & Aquarium board had been exploring ways to build a larger experience at the Sertoma Park location since adding aquariums in 2011. With annual attendance increasing from 45,000 to 90,000, the attraction needed more space to meet the interest in connecting with ocean animals in South Dakota.

“The pandemic had forced us to reassess our aquarium expansion plan, and we began partnering with the zoo on a butterfly conservation project,” said Otto-Pepper. “By 2021, [president and CEO of the Great Plains Zoo] Becky Dewitz and I were discussing additional ways for our organizations to be stronger together through our similar missions.”

Dewitz proposed building the aquarium experience at the zoo to reach more children and families as a combined unit.

“Our merger came together when the right time and the right people aligned.”

audrey otto-pepper

“Her idea became a vision that was vetted through our joint exploration committee and unanimously approved by our boards of directors,” said Otto-Pepper. “Now the Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium, our united mission is creating connection and inspiring conservation of wild species and spaces.”

The official business merger took effect January 1, 2023, and a multiyear plan began to also merge the teams and operations of the two campuses.

“Each of the department directors was purposeful in bringing team members from both campuses together to establish a collaborative approach to our unprecedented organizational growth and change, which is both exciting and frightening for employees,” explained Otto-Pepper. “Now almost four years into the merger, we are one cohesive team striving together toward one mission and one vision of a united campus.”

Since then, they have hit the ground running, fundraising under the campaign We Can’t Wait! for a “rezoovenation” to transform the zoo into a world-class destination that brings all of the elements of land, sea, and sky to one location. The Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium has successfully raised $47.2 million of the $50 million goal for the master plan.

“It has been incredibly inspiring to experience such unwavering support from our community,” said Otto-Pepper. “Families, foundations, and businesses are investing in future learning, joy, and memories for generations to come, and it would not be possible without their generosity.”

The expansion will come in waves, with the new Butterfly Garden, an expanded education center, and a state-of-the-art aquarium (including a 250,000-gallon shark reef and tunnel experience).

A groundbreaking ceremony was held October 21, 2025 for the butterfly piece of the expansion, symbolizing the beginning of the zoo’s transformation.

Highlights of the $12 million glass structure include being home to nearly 1,000 tropical butterflies from all over the world, a vast array of tropical plants, a Life Cycle Lab, a Falls Park Water Feature, a Lantern Gazebo, and a Tree of Life steel sculpture.

SHR Studios led the exhibit design for the Butterfly Garden, along with JLG Architects for building design. Hausmann Construction also serves as the construction manager at risk.

“All three have been deeply invested in creating and delivering a one-of-a-kind experience that’s both functional for our staff and animals, as well as inspirational for our guests,” said Otto-Pepper. “Within the new Butterfly Garden, we seek to recreate the beauty and serenity of the Butterfly House, while elevating the experience.”

“Not everyone has an 80-degree oasis with hundreds of tropical butterflies in their town or even their state.”

audrey otto-pepper

The approximately 3,600-square-foot glass enclosure has special details like Sioux Quartzite throughout the landscaping to connect guests to the area’s natural beauty. The waterfall is also constructed of stacked, massive Sioux Quartzite boulders, paying homage to the city’s namesake.

To create a dramatic focal point, the team brainstormed botanical-themed ideas with SHR Studios.

“We wondered if we could create an artificial tree that was different from the solid sculpted shotcrete you typically see in exhibits,” said Otto-Pepper. “SHR designed an airy concept of twisted metal and twinkle lights covered in Spanish moss and vines.”

All that was missing was the right artist to bring the idea to reality. Clark Martinek submitted a proposal, and Otto-Pepper says the zoo was drawn to his thoughtfulness, artistry, attention to detail, and passion for the project.

“We love the opportunity to showcase a local artist’s work in a space you may not expect, bringing together art and nature to inspire connection with one another and wildlife,” she continued.

The lobby will feature a view into the butterfly lab, where the butterflies emerge and dry their wings. Guests will now be able to watch their biologists processing new shipments of chrysalides from around the world, as well as learn about the butterfly life cycle with interactive educational displays.

Based on the construction schedule and USDA permitting timelines, the zoo hopes to open the Butterfly Garden by the end of February 2027.

“I am most excited to see everyone’s faces of awe and wonder when they walk into the new butterfly garden experience,” said Otto-Pepper.

UP NEXT

After the opening of the Butterfly Garden (contingent on fundraising), the zoo expects to begin construction on the new aquarium facility in spring 2027 with an anticipated opening in late 2029.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT GREATZOO.ORG+

The post 605 Stops By // A Butterfly Garden Sneak Peek first appeared on 605 Magazine.

Tordsen recently celebrated three years with the economic development association, which represents the Sioux Falls metro statistical area (MSA) that currently serves 18 municipalities in five counties.

“We help communities support businesses, prepare for development, address local challenges, and build places where people want to live and work,” said Tordsen. “Our mission is simple: empowering our communities to grow.”

Along with launching their inaugural class of Leadership Sioux Metro—an eight-month leadership and community development program in partnership with Think 3D Solutions—the SMGA team has been busy planning this year’s Growth Summit. The sixth annual event has a different theme each time with a certain focus, with this year’s being Rural Revitalization: Rooted in Community, Driven by Opportunity.

“The program has evolved to explore the issues shaping our communities,” said Tordsen. “We focused on housing in 2023, water in 2024, and energy in 2025, including power fundamentals, data centers, nuclear energy, and renewables.”

Find out more about Tordsen and the December 8 event at The Catlin, a Tapestry Hotel by Hilton in Sioux Falls.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF WHAT YOU DO?

My favorite part is working with people who care deeply about their hometowns. That might be a mayor thinking about the next generation, a business owner preparing to expand, or volunteers determined to bring new life to Main Street. Their commitment makes this work meaningful. I also enjoy helping connect the dots. Sometimes a community has a good idea but needs the right partner, information, or resource to move forward. Helping make that connection and eventually seeing something tangible come from it is incredibly rewarding.

TALK ABOUT YOUR STRONG TEAM AND HOW YOU ALL BRING SUPPORT TO THE SIOUX METRO.

Our team brings together experience in business, community research, local government, communications, and project development. Just as importantly, they understand every community has its own identity and priorities. We start by listening.

We recently added Hayley Johnson as director of operations and Berk Ehrmantraut as an economic development specialist. Alongside our other amazing staff, Bryce Healy, Chris Fields, Karen Ruhland, and Joshua Chase, they expand our ability to provide hands-on support throughout the region. Our board, municipal leaders, and private-sector partners also bring expertise that makes our entire organization stronger.

WHO IS THE GROWTH SUMMIT FOR?

The Summit is for anyone who has a role or an interest in the future of their community. That includes local elected officials, business owners, economic development professionals, chamber leaders, bankers, developers, nonprofit leaders, and engaged residents. We welcome people from all across South Dakota and the Midwest.

HOW HAVE YOU SEEN THE GROWTH SUMMIT AFFECT THE COMMUNITY/SIOUX METRO AFTER IT TAKES PLACE?

The value we aim to create extends well beyond the event itself. The Growth Summit gives people a shared foundation for conversations that continue in council meetings, business discussions, and community planning. Housing, water, and energy all involve decisions that take time and coordination. Bringing community leaders and experts together helps people ask better questions, understand constraints, and identify whom they need to involve. Our goal is for attendees to leave with useful information and relationships they can call upon when an opportunity or challenge arises.

WHAT IS SOMETHING PEOPLE MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT SMGA?

You don’t need to have a finished plan to start a conversation with us. If you are a business owner considering your next step, a community leader working through a challenge, or someone with an idea for your hometown, we would welcome the opportunity to connect.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT SIOUXMETRO.COM+

The post 605 Profile // Tyler Tordsen first appeared on 605 Magazine.

RF’s great grandfather, Gus Francis, established GF Buche Company in Lake Andes in 1905, and expanded into other rural communities on or near Native American reservations, carrying everything from clothing to hardware to groceries.

“He believed in supporting those local communities,” recalled RF. “He ended up getting his general store count up to about 18.”

The Depression hit in the 1930s, and Gus lost all but three of his stores. In this time where he lost everything, he not only paid every invoice he owed, but paid them all on time. This was one of many instances RF says he is proud of, and helped shape who he is today.

GF Buche Company is celebrating 121 years this month under Buche Foods and Gus Stops (named after his great grandfather). Gus ran the company well into his 80s and was practically forced into retirement by RF’s grandfather, Bob Sr., who then passed it down to Bob Jr.

RF spent his childhood watching his father at work, and started learning the ropes of the business. When he was 7 years old, a moment in one of the stores changed the trajectory of his life.

A young mother walked through the door and realized she didn’t have enough for groceries. Bob Jr. quietly walked over and slipped her the money so she could put food on the table for her family that night.

Did You Know?

Buche is pronounced “buoy,” but it’s not the original pronunciation. One of Gus’s kholás (or “friends” in Lakota) would pronounce his name as buoy, while the real way to say it was bouché. He found it charming and kept it, forever changing the family name.

“After she left, I asked, ‘Dad, why’d you do that?’ He just said, ‘RF, when you’re in this business, it’s your moral obligation to make sure no one goes hungry.’ I’ve never forgotten that,” said RF.

GF Buche Company has always been big supporters of the communities they’ve been in, whether it was through the school, ball teams, or simply helping others out.

When he was younger working for the family business, RF says he and his dad would make a big deal out of their anniversary sale and would go and have coffee at each of the locations, giving out cake and ice cream or a hot dog and Coca-Cola.

“It was crazy the amount of people that used to come up to me and tell me, ‘I didn’t have enough money for a dress, but your grandpa bought one for me,’ or, ‘He loaned me the money to get a pair of shoes,’ or whatever the case may be,” he reminisced.

Fast forward to 2000, and RF was in charge of the Wagner location. One day his father called a manager’s meeting in Mission, where he made a bombshell statement.

He said, “There comes a time in everybody’s life when you know you’re not the best man for the job anymore, and today’s that day for me.”

“It certainly affects me. There’s sad things that go on all the time out here.”

RF Buche

It was officially his retirement announcement at 54.

“I was in shock, for sure, but it was what I wanted,” said RF, who is now the CEO and president. “I’ve never dreamed about doing anything besides this. I bought him out shortly thereafter.”

GF Buche Company had around seven locations when he took over, and the business has grown to 26 locations, including a Buche Foods inside of Al’s Oasis, which RF purchased from the Mueller family.

“Al’s Oasis is a South Dakota tradition, and the Mueller family did a remarkable job of marketing this place and serving the community and the tourists in the area,” said RF. “I feel very privileged to be able to take the baton and hopefully do as good as them.”

While Al’s Oasis is a tourism and local hot spot, the other Buche Foods and Gus Stops are located in places where groceries are typically hard to come by. Though convenient, RF says they’re constantly battling the current economic climate with rising gas prices and low margins, which is frustrating.

“People are struggling, and they’re having to spend extra money on fuel, utilities, propane, whatever the case may be,” he said.

Pie for Here or To-Go?

Al’s Oasis sells over 50,000 a year at the restaurant. Check out more to do at the attraction at alsoasissd.com.

Finding transportation is hard in tribal communities, which makes the whole situation exacerbated. RF says many have to buy a ride, getting charged $20-$50 to get to a grocery store up to 45 miles away.

“At that point they’re basically almost out of money for food. It infuriates me,” said RF. “That’s money that could have been going toward food or diapers or whatever they need.”

GF Buche Company is also sensitive to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, which comes out on the 10th of each month.

“We’ll stay open until 2 o’clock in the morning because those SNAP benefits will kick in at midnight, and you’ll see people you know quite frankly haven’t had food in days,” said RF. “I’ve seen people bring their kids in and lay a blanket down in a cart with a blanket overtop to put them back to sleep, and use another cart for shopping for groceries because they haven’t eaten.”

In South Dakota, one in five people have food insecurity (over 130,000 people), and 20% of them are children. Staggering facts like this pushes RF to find more ways to help the rural and tribal communities.

For example, eight Buche Foods and Gus Stop locations started offering 50% off qualifying skim and 1% milk for SNAP shoppers through the Add Milk federal incentive program in September. The same month they also partnered with South Dakota State University Extension to help SNAP dollars go further for families buying fresh produce with Double Up Food Bucks South Dakota, matching purchases on eligible fruits and vegetables.

In July 2024, Buche Foods and Pass Creek Tribal Council Representative of the Oglala Sioux Tribe Anna Halverson collaborated to launch a summer food program, feeding 28,000 children across the nine districts of Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

“We fed 6,700 kids two meals per day, seven days a week for about 16 weeks,” said RF.

This passion for helping the people of South Dakota is also how Team Buche Cares came to fruition in 2014 as an official charitable arm of GF Buche Company. It all began when a little girl was diagnosed with leukemia in one of the communities they served.

“One of her wishes was to go swimming with the dolphins, and so we did a promotion selling water so she could fly down to Florida and swim with them,” recalled RF. “After we did that, my team was like, ‘What else can we do so we can affect more people,’ and so we would start selling cases of water, and they would do random challenges with me to hit fundraising goals.’”

After being challenged to do a 115-mile bike ride through their stores, RF says he couldn’t walk for two days and decided there had to be a better way to raise funds, hence the creation of the 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization,Team Buche Cares.

The team just wrapped up their third year of their biggest fundraiser, The Rooster Roundup, which takes place early October at RF’s hunting lodge in Dallas at the Cock Block Lodge. In 2025 the non-profit raised just around $2 million and has fed over 600,000 people since its inception.

At last year’s Rooster Roundup they had a Wópila ceremony where they took sponsors and gave them a star quilt, along with having grass dancers. Meaning “thank you” in Lakota, RF says it was special watching them be given a star quilt in the circle from the Oglala Lakota Nation.

“It’s a symbol of gratitude and goes back to when the warriors would go out to battle or hunters would go out, and you’d have a successful hunt or battle,” said RF. “They would drape you in buffalo hide, and so now that’s symbolized with the blanket. There were probably about 180 there last year for that ceremony, and I’ll bet there were 160-plus in tears.

Team Buche Cares became formalized in 2014, but I would argue that my family has been out here doing the same thing for 121 years.”

RF Buche

Springtime holds another pheasant hunting fundraiser at Cock Block Lodge with Steelers in the Field in March, which hosts Pittsburgh Steelers players and a few other participating teams.

Team Buche Cares is known for supporting more than 31 local food pantries and charitable organizations, which they especially focus on during the holiday season. They also have the Mobile Hunger Hero—a mobile distribution hub to deliver free, nutritious food like meat, vegetables, milk, and bread to remote and tribal areas every month.

Anyone is welcome to the Mobile Hunger Hero, which is set up like a shopping experience with guests entering with groceries bags from volunteers.

“The mobile pantry just gives them a little bit extra, especially at the end of the month,” said RF. Some of the product is purchased by Team Buche Cares from fundraising, and others are donated by partners like the South Dakota Farmers Union, Farmers Union Industries, and Prairie Farms.

RF Buche is also busy advocating for Main Street America and his customers. He stresses that grocery stores are the backbone of rural communities, and that once you lose the grocery store, the town starts to fade away.

“I believe small businesses and grocery stores in general are the backbone of this whole country,” said RF.

He serves on the board of directors for the National Grocers Association and spends time lobbying in Washington, D.C. to protect small town grocers and other topics like SNAP. Some of his hard work actually made it into the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law by President Donald Trump on July 4, 2025.

United States Senate Majority Leader John Thune, United States Senator Mike Rounds, and Governor Larry Rhoden are just some of the connections he utilizes to speak for those who can’t. On one of the first days of session in January, RF’s team hosts a legislative day event during State of the Tribes to show their connection to tribal communities and the importance of how Buche Foods operates.

“What scares me about small town grocers going away is who’s going to help that community? Who’s helping Mrs. Smith with her cancer treatment? I don’t see Dollar General or Walmart doing things like that,” said RF. “Who is going to do those things?”

While RF is busier than ever, he says he couldn’t do it without his team. This collaboration toward a great cause makes being pulled in a million directions on a daily basis worth it.

“I’m a big believer in this industry, and I’m a big believer in my customers,” he said. “I’ll do whatever I can to stand up for them.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT TEAMBUCHECARES.ORG OR BUCHEFOODS.COM+

The post The Person Behind the Passion // RF Buche first appeared on 605 Magazine.

The business continued to grow, and Barkl felt pulled toward making the brand more authentic and true her passion—natural fur. Barkl grew up on her family’s mink ranch, so fur has been a continuous part of her life, along with having a consistent adoration for western style.

“I’ve always loved genuine fur, not only for its beauty and warmth,” she said, “but also for its longevity and place in sustainable fashion.”

She continued to expand the selection and began manufacturing exclusive Dakota Darling designs. Each step of the business for Barkl was carefully calculated.

“From the beginning I’ve been intentional about growing Dakota Darling at a pace we could handle, and I’m proud we’ve been able to remain debt-free throughout it all,” added Barkl.

“I Still get excited about a beautiful coat, a new design, or finding something i know our customers are going to love.”
Vanessa Barkl

AN INTERNATIONAL PRESENCE

Dakota Darling Furs has shipped all over the United States and around the world, with a community of customers and supporters who continue to follow along for new styles and updates at @dakotadarlingfurs on Instagram and /shopdakotadarling on Facebook.

Intentional growth and purposefully-sourced furs from trusted industry partners both go hand-in-hand for Barkl. She has consistently led with a strong focus on quality.

“Nearly all mink are ranch-raised, and North American mink are recognized worldwide for their exceptional quality,” said Barkl. “A beautiful, healthy pelt reflects excellent nutrition, clean living conditions, and attentive care throughout the animal’s life.”

Fox fur is raised or responsibly trapped, while beaver, coyote, lynx, bobcat, and raccoon are typically caught in the wild through regulated trapping.

“I have great appreciation for the trapping community and the important role it plays in wildlife management, conservation, and maintaining healthy animal populations,” clarified Barkl. “Whether a fur is ranch-raised or wild-caught, I carefully consider its quality, condition, and source before selecting.”

Investing in natural materials that aren’t meant to be disposable or replaced every other season is what her brand is all about. Furs bring a combination of texture, timeless personality, and warmth other materials struggle to replicate, says Barkl. With proper care, pieces can remain wearable and beautiful for decades.

Barkl recommends professional fur cleaning and clients paying attention to anything needing extra care or restoration.

“They can often be repaired, restyled, and eventually passed down to the next generation, giving it a life far beyond a single season or trend,” she added.

Proper storage is also vital. Giving garments plenty of room to breathe in a cool, dark place on a sturdy, broad-shouldered hanger helps provide the proper air circulation needed to keep the piece from getting compressed or damaged.

“Luxury doesn’t have to mean something that sits in a closet waiting for a special occasion. it can be beautiful, practical, and made to be worn and enjoyed for years.”
Vanessa Barkl

Along with proper storage, personal style must be considered when adding a fur statement piece to a wardrobe. Barkl says it’s a fun way to express who you are, and fur doesn’t have to fit into one particular look.

Her pieces are just as at home with jeans, boots, and a cowboy hat as they are dressed up for Christmas Eve, a winter wedding, or a night out.

“The same coat can feel classic and timeless on one woman, western on another, or bold and glamorous, depending on how she chooses to wear it,” she said. “There really are no rules.”

While mink remains her all-time top choice, her favorite styles and furs range.

“My absolute favorite is a mahogany mink coat I designed in 2014 during a trip to New York City with my parents,” revealed Barkl. “I’m really drawn to plush fox coats, and believe every woman looks amazing in a dark mink.”

She also mentions a beloved skunk jacket that’s neutral, wearable, fun, and odorless.

Dakota Darling doesn’t just have coats—hats, vests, stoles, capes, and more are all available.

“Our genuine fur hats and accessories make beautiful gifts, too, bringing a little Dakota Darling warmth to a winter wardrobe,” she said. “With easy online shopping and fast shipping, we make it simple to give something special this Christmas.”

After losing her dad in 2019, finding her way back to the world of fur was a special, nostalgic process that felt like coming home.

“Dakota Darling is completely my own, but there’s also a piece of my dad and my upbringing woven into what I’m doing today, and that means more to me than I can really put into words,” said Barkl.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT DAKOTADARLING.COM+

The post Sustainable Style // Dakota Darling Furs first appeared on 605 Magazine.

The permanent space encourages guests ages 2-8 to explore with hands-on learning, and was made possible by the Home Builders Association of the Sioux Empire and the Home Builders Care Foundation. This partnership between the organizations and the Washington Pavilion exemplifies a commitment to introducing families to the building industry early on.

“At this age, play is how children begin to understand what they’re capable of,” said director of education and museums at the Washington Pavilion Maddy Grogan. “They can test an idea, ask for help, and discover a solution together.”

Let’s Build gives the attraction’s youngest visitors a new space to build confidence and see ideas take shape.

“I love the excitement that comes with bringing something new into our spaces.”
MADDY GROGAN

Located on the fourth floor in the former Discovery Den, the exhibit invites guests into a community that needs their help. Through interactive building challenges, children explore simple machines, move objects and large loads, and work together to find solutions. Taking turns, sharing ideas, and trying a different approach are all part of the experience.

“Let’s Build is designed primarily for children and families, but guests of all ages will find opportunities to explore, create, and solve problems together,” said Grogan. “The exhibit encourages collaborative play, making it especially appealing for parents, grandparents, and caregivers to participate alongside children.”

The experience also helps families discover the people and skills behind the homes and communities around them. Career content highlights opportunities in electrical work, plumbing, HVAC, interior design, carpentry, construction, and landscaping, connecting children’s interests with the many ways people make a living in the building industry.

Grogan’s favorite part of Let’s Build is the conveyor belt.

“I love [the conveyor belt] and the use of simple machines throughout the exhibit,” she said. “It’s such a fun experience for kids. They get completely enthalled with moving materials and building together, and I think it’s going to be one of those features that’s hard to pull them away from.”

Visitors will have opportunities to design solutions to challenges, use simple machines to move large materials, and work together to plan, repair, build, and renovate homes.

When asked what takeaway Grogan wants attendees to have from the exhibit, she replied, “First and foremost: fun.”

SPEND A DAY

All wrapped up at the Kirby Science Discovery Center? Walk through the Visual Arts Center galleries or catch an immersive show in the Sweetman Planetarium.

“We want families to have such a great experience that they come back again and again,” she continued. “Beyond that, we hope visitors gain exposure to the many jobs, skills, and tasks involved in building and maintaining a home.”

The Washington Pavilion team says they work hard to keep exhibits fresh and relevant, but opportunities to completely renew spaces within the Kirby Science Discovery Center don’t come every year.

“We’re fortunate to have supportive partners like Home Builders Association of the Sioux Empire who see the value in investing in educational experiences,” said Grogan.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT WASHINGTONPAVILION.ORG+

The post A (Permanent) Addition // “Let’s Build” at the Washington Pavilion first appeared on 605 Magazine.

Here are four ways to make the most of your time in the city, from crisp mornings on the trail to cozy nights downtown.

Chase the Fall Air
Fall might be the best time of year to get outside in Sioux Falls. Cool mornings, turning leaves and wide-open prairie sky turn even a short walk into something worth photographing.

Start where the city got its name: Falls Park. The waterfalls surrounded by pink quartzite at the heart of downtown are a must-see in any season, but the autumn color along the Big Sioux River makes them especially photogenic. From there, hop on the bike trail and river greenway, which wind through the city and make it easy to explore one mile at a time, on foot or on two wheels.

Want to venture a little farther? Head to Good Earth State Park, where rolling prairie hills and wooded trails offer a quiet escape just outside town. Or make your way to Great Bear Recreation Park, whose trails take on a whole new character once the leaves start to change. Each stop feels like its own small getaway, and you’ll never be far from the city.

Move to the Rhythm
Spend an afternoon wandering downtown Sioux Falls as you admire SculptureWalk, a collection of over 80 unique pieces of art that line the streets. Every sculpture tells a story, and every block brings something new to discover.

When evening rolls around, catch a performance on stage at the Washington Pavilion, or cozy up in a downtown lounge like Trio Jazz Club, where the music scene comes alive. 

Celebrate the Season
As the temperatures drop and the winter season approaches, Sioux Falls lights up. Shop windows twinkle along downtown streets, Falls Park sparkles with holiday lights during Winter Wonderland, and skaters glide across the ice ribbon at Jacobson Plaza.

The festive spirit doesn’t stop there. Browse local shops for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts as downtown embraces the magic of the holiday season. However you choose to celebrate, you’ll find one more reason to stay a little longer.

Savor the Flavors
The Sioux Falls food scene is best enjoyed one bite at a time. Local chefs put their culinary twists on seasonal dishes that are sure to delight even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re craving that mouthwatering dish that you saw on social media or seeking out a new restaurant, there’s always something delicious to try in South Dakota’s largest city.

Start Planning Your Visit
Fresh air, creative energy, holiday sparkles, and seasonal flavors await. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT EXPERIENCESIOUXFALLS.COM+

The post Seasonal Fun | Fall & Winter in Sioux Falls first appeared on 605 Magazine.

The kitchen is where life happens, describes managing partner Lizzie Stewart. Along with being the place weeknight dinners are made, it’s also where people gather to celebrate birthdays, holidays, and milestones.

“We believe investing in the kitchen isn’t about having the most expensive things, but it’s about having things you love to use—a knife that feels wonderful in your hand, a pan you’ll own for decades, a beautiful serving piece that comes out every Thanksgiving,” said Stewart. “Those objects become part of your life, and eventually part of your family’s story.”

Plums Cooking Company’s talented team has witnessed how the way people cook, shop, learn, and gather has changed dramatically over the last 40 years. The next chapter for the downtown Sioux Falls boutique is about bringing the very best parts of the Plums experience forward, including a new partnership (Stewart joining Penny Klinedinst), a new website and online shopping experience, a fresh set of cooking classes, and more ways to educate and inspire customers both in the store and at home.

This holiday season is the beginning of that forwardthinking strategy. The team is launching Plums Host & Roast—a holiday experience designed around something they hear from customers often: “I want to have people over, but I don’t want it to be so stressful.”

“Instead of simply selling holiday products, we’re going to help people through the whole experience,” explained Stewart. “We’ll have 21 Days of Holiday Sides, followed by Four Days All About That Bird, with recipes, techniques, tools, wine and food pairings, entertaining ideas, and plenty of help from the Plums team.”

Stewart says this is a great example of where they’re taking the business.

“We don’t just want to sell you something for your kitchen,” she said. “We want to help you use it, enjoy it, and bring people around it.”

With the upcoming anniversary, the team feels a responsibility to honor their history, while also preparing Plums for the next generation. There are customers who have been shopping with Plums for decades, and now the team says they’re meeting their children and grandchildren, which is “incredibly special.”

“We don’t want to reinvent what Plums is,” said Stewart. “We want to protect what has always made it unique and find new ways to share it.”

For the Host & Roast, the team created a hosting personality quiz that helps people discover what kind of host they naturally are. The team then uses that to help guide them toward menus, serving ideas, wine pairings, products, and tips that fit their style of entertaining.

“Some people love planning every detail, while some want everything beautiful, but simple,” said Stewart. “Some would happily spend three days cooking, and others need us to tell them what they can buy, what they can make ahead, and what they absolutely don’t need to worry about.”

There’s no “right” way to host.

As the holiday season can get stressful, Stewart says quality tools remove friction from cooking. A sharp knife set, dependable pans, or the right kitchen instrument or device can make it easier and more enjoyable.

The food matters just as much. Plums has evolved beyond cookware over the years with wine, cheese, olive oils, vinegars, and pantry ingredients.

“We love being able to help someone with the entire experience,” said Stewart. “Not simply selling them the pan, but helping answer, ‘What are you going to make in it?’”

Food creates connection, and the team believes a kitchen doesn’t mean much if no one is cooking in it. Cooking is one of the most accessible forms of creativity, from choosing the ingredients, to color options, to texture, to flavors, to the presentation.

“You can follow the exact same recipe as someone else and still make it your own,” said Stewart. “And then you give it away. That’s what we love most about food as an art form—ultimately, it’s meant to be shared and creates memories.”

The team at Plums Cooking Company says watching food create connection during cooking classes is their favorite part, from strangers talking across the table to friends laughing over butchering a recipe to a couple celebrating an anniversary.

Customers have taken classes at Plums, registered for weddings, bought gifts, discovered favorite recipes, and returned year after year.

“There’s tremendous history behind us, but there’s also so much energy around what’s ahead,” said Stewart.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT PLUMSCOOKING.COM+

The post Celebrating 40 Years // For the Love of Food first appeared on 605 Magazine.