Blooming Radishes

Santa and the Parade of Lights 2011

2011-11-27T19:23:00.001-08:00

Friends know how bonkers I can go over a parade. And I'm a nut when it comes to Santa. I had such good experiences with Santa as a child. Not because he brought us scads of gifts, because he did not. He came to our house every Christmas with a few gifts, the biggest oranges and fifty-cent pieces. Sweet memories for me.

Here are a few (poor quality) of photos of Santa and his two helpers astride horses in the staging area for the 2011 Parade of Lights.

SANTA 2011 IN PARADE OF LIGHTS STAGING AREA

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Photos taken in the staging area - 28 floats, many with generators crowded into a parking lot - talk about an exhaust buzz! It was exhilarating waiting for the start of the parade - and duct taping and re-duct taping connections on the float.

And then there was the crowd downtown. Note how close they stood to us. We were in a pick-up towing a car trailer. Several semis had to navigate that crowded street!

It was fun. Made me want to go home and bake cookies and sweet breads to share.

PARADE OF LIGHTS 2011

End of the Season

2011-09-04T03:46:00.000-07:00

Spent an evening attending the end-of-the-season performance by Uncle Roy and the Boys. Cool night with breezes blowing in from the Missouri River. It has been enjoyable to attend these outdoor performances this summer and to sit at the table with family and friends of the band. Already looking forward to next year's performances.

Cultural Event

2011-08-30T04:10:00.000-07:00

Here's a reposing of an article written in 2008 and posted on another of my blogs. Made me smile when I read it, so I want to share it...again. Links to photos have been removed as they were sadly outdated and I have no other photos to post.

Wow! What an incredible day at the local farmers and artisans market - just imagine one of the largest farmers markets in the area coupled with a car show! Two dynamite events.

My friend J, a Hmong man who came to this area as a teenaged refugee over 20 years ago, sells egg rolls in the booth next to ours. He was surprised to see the turn out at the car show and asked me if I knew the anticipated attendance. I was surprised to hear him use the word "anticipated". I was unaware he knew the word - obviously his English skills have improved greatly in the past few years. So, we chatted about the anticipated attendance, and then he asked what is the purpose of this "car show" gathering?

I stumbled around just a bit trying to explain just what is a car show. J wanted to know if there was a money prize for the best car. At Hmong festivals there is frequently a cash prize for the best soccer team, or badminton team or dance team. He seemed puzzled when I told him no cash prize at this event.

Well, I thought I'd try to explain why the car show was such a big deal that hundreds of classic cars would show up along with thousands of admirers. So I pointed out a 60-something year-old lady who was dressed as a bobby soxer - hair in a pony tail held in place by the folded scarf, white shirt - untucked, of course, blue jeans rolled up into big cuffs, white socks and tennies. I said - that's how she would have dressed as a teenager in 1957 - and that car she's standing next to would have been a popular car in 1957. Ah, J said, nodding that now I get it head-nod. He said, "This is a cultural event - you are showing your children how you used to live."

Ah, yes. Although I've never quite heard of a car show referred to in that manner, J did indeed get it right - it's a .....cultural event

Freezing Tomatoes

2011-08-30T03:24:00.000-07:00

Freezing is an easy way to preserve tomatoes, and it takes much less time than canning tomatoes. There is no need to blanch or remove the skin before freezing.

Frozen tomatoes retain their fresh picked flavor, and make a tasty ingredient in any recipe calling for tomatoes - tomato sauce, marina sauce, soups and stews.

For best results use vacuum seal bags, plastic bags or rigid plastic containers designed for use in the freezer.

Equipment:

Knife – used to remove core and any bad spots

Cookie sheet

Freezer safe containers

Ingredients

Fresh tomatoes

Method

Wash tomatoes.
Remove the core and cut out any bad spots.
Place tomatoes on a cookie sheet and place in the freezer for 30 minutes or until the tomatoes begin to freeze. Note: Taking this step will prevent tomatoes from sticking to one another, making it easier to use just one or two tomatoes rather than having to thaw a block of frozen stuck-together tomatoes.
Remove tomatoes from freezer.
Insert into freezer safe container.
Return to freezer.

How to remove skin from frozen tomatoes:

Remove desired number of tomatoes from the freezer.
Place the tomatoes in a bowl of cold water.
Allow to sit for up to 5 minutes – the skin will begin to crack.
Use a knife or your fingers to remove the skins.

Freezing Beans - Green, Wax and Snap

2011-08-29T16:53:00.000-07:00

A quick and easy way to preserve beans is by freezing. A few easy steps can make it possible for your family to enjoy beans throughout the winter months. Use fresh picked beans from your garden or the local farmers market.

For best results use vacuum seal bags, plastic bags or rigid plastic containers designed for use in the freezer. Package according to your family’s needs: pint bags or containers hold 2 cups, quarts hold 4 cups.

The beans should be blanched and cooled before freezing. Lacking a blancher, use a kettle.

A handy chart provided by National Center for Home Food Preservation shows blanching times for various vegetables.

If you are new to blanching or need a refresher, read Blanching How-To

Freezing Beans

Equipment

Blancher

Large bowl of cold water

Freezer safe containers

Sharp knife for cutting beans to length

Ingredients

Fresh picked beans

Method

Wash and drain beans.
Remove stem end and the little “tail” at the opposite end with a sharp knife, or by snapping them off with your fingers.
Cut or snap the beans into 1” or 2” pieces.
Blanch for 3 minutes.
Remove from blancher and put into bowl of cold water.
Drain and put into freezer container.
Put containers in the freezer.

Canning Action

2011-08-29T03:20:00.000-07:00

With help from Tyra, Alysha and Alex, WOOFers at Muddy Pumpkin Farms, this is what went into jars in a five hour period. The final shot is short a few jars. One batch in the canner, and another waiting to go in. Hal and Mark were kept busy bring stuff in and checking on us.

We're going to call it a good day's work.

Farmers Market Action

2011-08-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

Action at the farmers market. Particularly like that Bijou Hills Grassfed Meats posts their Mission Statement for all to see. Watch for LeAnn Werner of Muddy Pumpkin Farm showing off a double goldie heirloom tomato - 3.5 pounds - and a "pinocchio" eggplant. Happy Hydros' "Buy Fresh Buy Local" signage is almost as awesome as their hydroponic produce!

Sauted Green Beans

2011-08-26T21:45:00.000-07:00

Serves four. A new way to serve an old standard - green beans. Easy and delicious gourmet cooking right at home.

Equipment:
Blancher or kettle
Bowl of cold water to cool green beans after blanching
Saute pan

Ingredients:
One-half pound fresh green beans (two good handfuls)
2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
2 Tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs
Sea salt

Method:

Blanch beans for 2 minutes
(Lacking a blancher: Put enough water in a kettle so that it will cover the beans. Put on medium heat and bring to boil. Add beans and blanch for 2 minutes.)
Remove beans from water and put into cold water.
Drain beans.
Place saute pan on medium heat.
Add olive oil and garlic.
When oil is warm, add beans.
Saute, stirring frequently, until beans are crisp-tender, about 5 - 7 minutes.
Add bread crumbs,stir and saute an additional 30 seconds.
Plate up and enjoy!

Fresh Corn Salsa

2011-08-26T05:36:00.000-07:00

Four ingredients, all fresh from the garden or the local farmers' market.

Equipment:
A sharp knife for removing corn kernels from the cob
Kettle for par boiling corn
Tongs for removing corn from kettle
Pan of cold water for cooling down corn after par boiling

Ingredients:
2 cobs of corn
4 medium sized heirloom tomatoes, diced
1 medium sized purple onion, diced
1 bunch cilantro, leaves only
Sea salt (optional)

Method:

Husk corn and remove silk
Place a plan of water on medium high heat and bring to a boil
Carefully place corn in boiling water, using tongs
Par boil corn for 2 - 3 minutes
Remove corn from boiling water and place in cold water to stop the cooking process
When cool enough to handle, use sharp knife to remove corn from cob
Place corn kernels in a bowl
Add remaining ingredients
Mix
Enjoy!

Gazpacho

2011-08-25T17:57:00.000-07:00

Nothing says summer fresh garden like Gazpacho, a cold Spanish soup of garden fresh vegetables and bread.
A few ingredients fresh from the garden or farmers market, a bit of peeling and chopping and there you have it...gazpacho.

Equipment:
Food processor or a sharp chef's knife to finely chop all ingredients

Ingredients:
1 cucumber
6 red and yellow tomatoes
3 red and yellow peppers
2 garlic cloves
1 medium purple onion
1 small bunch cilantro
Sea salt

Method:

Peel, seed and chop cucumber
Peel, seed and chop tomatoes
Peel and smash the garlic
Pick over the cilantro to remove any damaged or dead leaves. Use only leaves, reserve stems for another recipe.
Put all items into food processor and pulse until desired consistency is reached.

Pour into glass and enjoy. Store is covered glass jar in refrigerator. Eat within a day or two.

TOMATO MARMALADE

2011-08-24T16:50:00.000-07:00

Over run with pear or cherry tomatoes?

Make tomato marmalade.

What does one do with tomato marmalade? Spread it on toasted herb bread, or place a dab atop a slice of goat cheese on a cracker, or use as a condiment for a beef sandwich. So goood......

Tomato marmalade can be simple – tomatoes and sugar boiled together until thick. Herbs, such as rosemary, oregano or thyme can be added, and will enhance the flavor.

The formula:

For every pound of tomatoes, use a pound of sugar.
For every pound of sugar, use ½ cup water.
For every pound of tomatoes, use one bunch of herbs, ¼ cup or more, optional.
Yield: 1 half-pint jar for every pint or .75 pounds of pear or cherry tomatoes.
One pint of tomatoes equals .75 pounds.
One pound of sugar equals 2.25 cups.

TOMATO MARMALADE

Yield: 4 half-pint jars

Equipment:

Kettle for cooking marmalade

Canner with jar rack and lid

4 sterilized half-pint jars with lids and bands

Ladle

Jar lifter

Magnetized lid lifter

Small kettle for preparing hot lids

Ingredients

Herbs, optional

4 pints or 3 pounds pear or cherry tomatoes

3 pounds or 6.75 cups sugar

1 ½ cups water

Sherry vinegar or balsamic vinegar, optional

Method

Wash tomatoes and remove stems.
Remove dead leaves from herbs, wash.
Put water, sugar and herbs (optional) into the kettle.
Put kettle on medium heat and stir to keep sugar from sticking.
Bring mixture to boil and boil for 1 minute.
Add tomatoes.
Leave lid off and do not stir.
Allow mixture to simmer, without stirring. The liquid will become clear as the tomatoes begin to sweat out their juice.
Cook until thick. Decreasing heat if necessary.
When the mixture begins to carmelize – taking on a brownish color - add a splash of sherry vinegar and stir.
Ladle hot marmalade into jars, leaving ½” head space.
Wipe the rim with a clean damp cloth.
Apply a hot lid and band.
Using a jar lifter, put jars into a boiling water bath canner.
Process in a boiling water bath: 10 minutes for half-pints.
Using a jar lifter, remove jars from canner and place atop a towel in a draft free area.
Listen for the ‘ping’ that indicates the jar is sealed.
When cool, press on the center of the lid to check for a seal – lid will be concave and have no “give.”
Remove band and reuse.
Wipe jar and store in pantry.

If you are new to canning or need a refresher, check out these articles on Sustainable Dakota Digest:

A Compendium of Useful and Important Information for Boiling Water Bath Canning

Home Canning: How to Get Started

First learned about tomato marmalade at Culiblog. Have been a fan ever since.

FARMERS MARKET

2011-08-20T15:05:00.000-07:00

Another good day at the farmers market with Muddy Pumpkin Farm touting the benefits of beyond organic, food as community and food as a connector.

RAIN BARREL

2011-08-18T17:03:00.000-07:00

One of the demonstrations at the farmers market last week was constructing a rain barrel from a plastic garbage can. Amy zipped through it so fast that I was not able to get down there to take photos - we had a gaggle of customers to take care of at that very moment.

So Amy stopped over at our booth to show off the newly constructed rain barrel. She says she hangs out at the market on Saturday because it's a really cool place to be. She is right!

KALE CHIPS

2011-08-18T16:51:00.000-07:00

The foray to the farmers market on Saturday was incredible on many levels.

Plenty of vendors, good product, live-radio broadcasts, sustainable demos - canning and rain barrels, and a totally festive atmosphere.

One customer brought over a sample of kale chips she made with kale purchased the week before.

Delicious! And she shared the recipe she adapted.

Sorry, no photos. Too busy making and enjoying kale chips.

Kale Chips

Amazingly these kale chips taste as if they are sprinkled with cheese. Yet, cheese is not an ingredient.

Ingredients:

1 red bell pepper, seeds removed, coarsely chopped

1 or 2 bunches curly kale

1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 24 hours

1 large tomato, seeds removed

Juice of 1 large lemon

1/3 cup nutritional or brewer’s yeast

Sea salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Remove stems from kale and use in another recipe.

2. Tear kale into bite size pieces.

3. Rinse to remove any dirt and spin dry in a salad spinner.

4. In a food processor, process cashews and lemon juice into a paste.

5. Add the red bell pepper, yeast, salt and pepper

6. Process until smooth.

7. Place kale pieces and half of the mixture in a large bowl.

8. Massage the mixture into the kale pieces – massage each leaf individually.

9. Add more of the mixture as needed.

10. Place kale pieces on dehydrator trays being careful to not overlap pieces.

11. Dehydrate at 110 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 6 hours.

12. Store in air tight container.

Adapted by Beth J

Canning extravaganza as community building

2011-08-17T05:39:00.000-07:00

Canning extravaganza and the building of a community.

That sounds like a good title for an article on the value of creating good food and sharing that with a community of willing learners. The article is coming, the photos are here.

Uncle Roy and the Boys

2011-08-14T05:05:00.000-07:00

Long time friends, good clean fun.

Mitchell Farmers Market - National Farmers Market Day

2011-08-13T15:55:00.000-07:00

The Mitchell Farmers Market continues to grow and expand. It celebrated National Farmers Market Day with live radio broadcasts, demonstrations and plenty of vendor action. Here's some shots. Sorry, too busy at the height of the market to get any good crowd shots. Believe me there were crowds today.

Vacation Bible School

2011-08-12T03:36:00.000-07:00

Trinity Lutheran and United Church of Christ, Chamberlain, SD. Performance at Trinity Lutheran, followed by an ice cream social. A total energy night!

Apologies for the dark shots - camera was not on its best behavior. And then the photographer was too busy eating ice cream to get a good shot of the room packed with fellow ice cream eaters.

Farmers Market

2011-08-12T03:34:00.001-07:00

Chamberlain, SD - wonderful produce, meats, and baked goods. End of market day shots.

Bent Spatula
Happy Hydros, LLC
Platte Hutterite Colony
Bijou Hills Grass Fed Meat (Larry Wagner)
Muddy Pumpkin Farms

Grandma's Pickling Spice Recipe

2011-07-25T20:32:00.000-07:00

Grandma was known for her kitchen skills. People sent her letters with special requests for her canned goods. They knew a good thing when they tasted it!

Grandma's Pickling Spice Recipe
2 Tablespoons Mustard Seeds
2 Tablespoons Whole Allspice
2 Teaspoons Coriander Seeds
2 Teaspoons Whole Cloves
1 Teaspoon Ground Ginger
1 Teaspoon Dried Red Pepper Flakes (or more if you like more heat)
1 Bay Leaf, Crumbled
1 Cinnamon Stick, 2 Inches In Length

We never purchased pickling spice at the grocery store. I didn't realize one could do that until I was well into my 20s.

Home Canning ... Another Word for Sustainable

2011-07-06T20:36:00.000-07:00

So very happy to see Sustainable Dakota Digest published an article I wrote for them: Home Canning: How to Get Started.

Sustainable Dakota Digest is designed to foster sustainability in Western Minnesota, North and South Dakota, Wyoming and Northern Nebraska.

Facebook: Sustainable Dakota Digest
Twitter: SD Digest, hashtag #sustainsd

Canning - A Way of Life

2011-07-04T14:52:00.000-07:00

The truth be told, I cannot remember when I stared canning. What I do remember is that home canned food sure tasted good. In our multi-generational home, Grandma canned enough for us to eat all winter and then some. As 6- and 7-year olds we were stationed at wash tubs to clean cucumbers, tomatoes, beets and more. Swathed in an apron, standing on a little wooden stool, armed with a vegetable brush and a square of muslin we worked away at our task. It was a big deal to be promoted to jar stuffer as a 9- or 10-year old. Teenagers managed the loading and unloading of the hug copper boilers loaded down with 20 or more jars of pure goodness.

We were never without food, could feed unexpected company by opening a few jars, and had plenty of fancy canned things for gifting. Grandma categorized relishes, chutneys, certain jams and jellies and her famous pickled beets as fancy canned - not everyday fair, intended for gifts or eating on special days.

My dream is to start a canning school, to teach a skill I learned as a child, and from which I have benefited my entire life.

Chamberlain, SD in Stare Down with Missouri River Over Boat Ramps

2011-06-30T12:29:00.000-07:00

In a Stare Down with rising flood waters on the Lake Francis Case portion of the Missouri River, the city of Chamberlain has erected a temporary boat ramp – with proper permits from the Game, Fish and Parks Department. The permanent boat ramps at American Creek Marina and American Creek Campground have been closed.

American Creek Campground is under seven feet of water, so you simply cannot access the permanent boat ramp. Water is so high that boats cannot go under the American Creek Bridge to access the marina. Well, that really doesn’t matter, as that boat ramp is also underwater.

The temporary boat ramp was erected using the entrance to American Creek Campground. The natural incline of the entrance makes this a logical choice. “Use at your own risk.” says Mayor Doug Nelson. Boaters are smiling a bit more these days.

Here’s a before shot of the location for the temporary ramp. Trees way in the background mark the usual location of the Missouri River. In the 5 days since this photo was taken, flood waters have risen to the gate. We are being told it will be better in August, maybe September. In the meantime – get yer boat out on the River and enjoy yourself.

Chive Blossom Vinegar

2011-06-27T06:29:00.000-07:00

It is so easy to make Chive Blossom Vinegar.

Pick chive blossoms - you will need enough to fill a glass jar. Pull off the little paper wings at the bottom of the blossom. Rinse the blossoms, and dry them - a salad spinner works great for this step.

Pack chive blossoms into the jar. Pour enough white vinegar into the jar to cover the blossoms. Screw on jar cover. Allow to steep for 2 - 3 weeks in a dark place. A cupboard is a good place. Resulting vinegar will be a lovely shade of lavendar and will taste like - well, chive blossoms.

Strain the vinegar, toss the blossoms. Add a spring or two of chives with blossoms attached to a bottle, pour in the chive blossom vinegar. There you have it...a lovely lavender colored chive blossom vinegar suitable for gifting.

Urban gardening

2011-06-26T20:19:00.000-07:00

Last week I rang up my friend Mark from Muddy Pumpkin Farms, and asked if by chance he was coming near my place of work and could I please order some fresh veggies.

Well, not only was he coming my way, he was able to deliver the order directly to my house. Part of the order was "lettuce, whatever you have. I love lettuce." Well, for the settled upon price, I received* broccoli, cilantro, scallions, fresh garlic, snow peas, kale, potatoes, radishes and a pot of lettuces. Yup, that's right...a pot of lettuces. (*I'm thinking I've forgotten an item or two, but most of the produce is already consumed, so I can't check the refrigerator for the forgotten item.)

My little urban garden looks so cute on the front step. I can just hop outside and harvest the leaves I want. A daily watering and I'm set for lettuce for the season - thanks, Mark.

Oh, and that pot of lettuce has attracted inquisitive neighbors who come up the walk to see what kind of flowers I'm growing. It gives me a chance to talk to them about container gardening and what we can raise right on our front step...thanks Mark! And then I put in a plug for Muddy Pumpkin Farm.

Back in the saddle as an urban gardener and educator...well sort of. And that little urban garden was moved out onto the sidewalk today to take advantage of the day's on and off rain.

They Said It Wouldn't Happen

2011-06-26T19:55:00.000-07:00

Despite being told the Missouri River flooding this year would be less than what was experienced last year in Chamberlain, a record flood is happening.

The water rose several feet in just a couple days, forcing officials and hundreds of volunteers in Chamberlain and Oacoma to construct levees and sandbag utilities in an effort to hold back Missouri River flood waters.

If you are the praying type, please pray for us, and everyone affected by high water this year - there is another post coming on that. If you are not the praying type, send us good vibes and think good thoughts of us.

And please, volunteer - do something to help someone who needs help. Yes, I know you can't rush over here to help. Help in your community. Someone needs you today.

Now the photographic proof. The Missouri River waters have risen up to the gate into American Creek Campground. The trees way in the background - that's where the Missouri River is supposed to be. All that water between those trees and the gate is the campground. Drowned out, unusable until August - that's what we are being told. Like I said. Please pray for us.

South Dakota Tractor Museum

2011-06-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite Kimball, South Dakota places to visit is the South Dakota Tractor Museum. And my favorite display area is the "Women's Building"... it's also the best kept secret at the museum. Walking into the Women's Building is like walking into my grandma's house. A favorite piece is the Hoosier kitchen cabinet, just like the one grandma had in her farm kitchen.

So much more is on display - feed sack clothing, musical instruments, equipment for washing clothes, ladies hats, handiwork. The bedroom, living room and kitchen displays can keep you busy all day - "Grandma had one of those." "Aunt Martha had one of those." - you get the idea. It is truly a walk down memory lane.

When visiting the museum, I've often encountered women out in the parking lot, sitting in a vehicle reading a book or magazine - unaware of the Women's Building which lacks signage. Invited inside, they often spend more time in the museum than does their husband.

Ladies, when the man decides to visit the South Dakota Tractor Museum, there is no reason to stay in the vehicle because you are really not all that into tractors and such.

The Women's Building is at the rear of the Visitor Center, which also houses a Gift Shop full of locally made items and a used book corner. One other item you might want to check out amongst the farm equipment is a grasshopper chewed fence post from the 'Dirty 30s'...you will be surprised at what grasshoppers can do! Just ask one of the museum guides to show it to you. If I don't mention the blacksmith shop and one-room school, those museum guides are going to me why...so I'm mentioning them.

The South Dakota Tractor Museum is open Memorial Day through Labor Day, 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. on Sundays. Guided tours available. No admission charged, donations appreciated. Interstate 90, exit 284 at Kimball, SD.

Flooding in Pierre/Ft. Pierre #Oahe Flood

2011-05-28T11:24:00.000-07:00

6:00 p.m. Update: It keeps getting worse. We learned tonight that the Corps will be releasing water at the rate of 150,000 cfs. (No, not a typo.) River is expected to crest 7 feet above flood stage. Flooding expected to be worse than the 1952 flood, which inundated Pierre and Ft. Pierre. Morris Construction is hiring truck drivers and front end loader operators to help build emergency levees. Volunteers are needed. And, please go to the area ONLY if you are there to volunteer.

2:30 p.m. Update: Sadly, it is not looking good. Gen. McMahon of the Corps says, "This is the most serious event this part of the Missouri River basin has faced, ever." In addition, the governor is asking those traveling to Pierre/Ft. Pierre to avoid Hwy 83 and use Hwy 14 or Hwy 34. (My opinion is: it's better to be a volunteer than a gawker. If you are not there to help, stay home and stay out of the way.)

Gen. McMahon of the Corps: "This is the most serious event this part of the Missouri River basin has faced, ever."

#OaheFlood on Twitter will get you the latest updates on the flooding in Pierre and Fort Pierre.

Currently the Army Corps of Engineers is releasing 65,000 cfs (cubic feet per second) of water through the Lake Oahe Dam. Heard it described yesterday like this: a basketball is about one cubic foot. Just imagine 65,000 basketballs blowing by you in one second.

Emergency levees are being constructed on both sides of the Missouri River in Pierre and Ft. Pierre. City governments are constructing levees and sandbagging public utilities and other infrastructure. Private citizens are working feverishly to save their homes and possessions. Some have packed up and moved out. Low lying areas experienced flooding yesterday.

Overnight the COE released some not so good news. Rain in the forecast means a ramping up of the release rate. With up to 3 inches of rain forecast for this weekend, Garrison Dam in Bismarck will increase their release to 120,000 cfs. This means Oahe and all dams downstream must follow suit. This could cause levee failures. The governor is telling residents to not depend on the levees saving their homes. He said to be "self-reliant" when it comes to saving their homes.

Pierre, Ft. Pierre and communities downstream WILL be flooded.

Please, if you can, volunteer. Pierre and Ft. Pierre have an immediate need. And so do communities downstream.

Flood information is found at www.breadysd.com

To volunteer in Pierre or Ft. Pierre call the Chamber of Commerce at 605.773.7361

Flood information is also available at 866.446.5324.

Community Theater

2011-05-21T20:13:00.001-07:00

Come on out and enjoy some good community fun...

click image to enlarge

Signs of the time

2011-05-21T06:41:00.000-07:00

Seen around town in support of our local service personnel recently deployed with the 200th Engineer Company.

200th EN CO

2011-05-16T20:49:00.000-07:00

A slide show of the incredible parade for the 200th EN CO can be found on the 200th Camo Quilt Project blog,

Over there you will also find photos of four ordinary looking buses cruising down the interstate ...

Community Appreciation Ceremony and Remembrance

2011-05-10T09:43:00.000-07:00

A big community appreciation ceremony is planned for soldiers in the Chamberlain unit of the 200th Engineer Company of the South Dakota Army National Guard. Part of me really wants to be in the convoy from Chamberlain to Pierre. As difficult as all this is for everyone in our area, it was made all the more sad when we learned that Jared Roe, only 19 years old and a member of the 200th has passed away in a swimming accident. Now the ceremony will include a remembrance. Our sympathies to Jared's family and our prayers for all the soldiers and their families.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

2011-04-04T00:10:00.000-07:00

Thursday, April 4, 1968. I can remember the shock I felt listening to Walter Cronkite telling us that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. had been assassinated in Memphis, TN. He was there in support of striking black sanitation workers.

I knew my life would never be the same, our nation had changed. And I instinctively knew this event meant that I was probably not going on my senior class trip. We were scheduled to leave the next week for Washington, DC and New York.

We stayed glued to the television over the next few days, watching as our nation came unglued over Dr. King's assassination. Cousins living in Milwaukee left to avoid the unrest, others wished they could.

I did finally go on that (postponed) class trip after a huge strung out argument with the whole family. Against orders from my mother, other family members, and against an agreement signed with the school to not stray from the trip itinerary, I spent every free moment observing the burned out neighborhoods that resulted from the riots following Dr. King's death.

I remember that first glimpse of blocks of burned out homes and businesses. I remember asking the black man sitting next to me on the bus, "Why?" I remember what he told me. I remember the lack of anger in his voice. I was changed in that moment. I have never been the same.

"There comes a time when silence is betrayal." Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Sleeping Beauty

2011-03-15T08:34:00.000-07:00

Each spring Missoula Children's Theater works with students at Kimball school on a musical production. This year it's Sleeping Beauty.

Performances are Saturday, Mar. 19 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. in the Kiote Den. And I'm hoping there will be a meal between performances.

Missoula Children's Theater
presents...

Serandepity, What Exactly Is It?

2011-03-06T07:59:00.000-08:00

Huge fan of Michael Feldman's Whad'ya Know?, yes I am. Been listening to the radio show since it started way back in '85.

Serandepity happened last week while I was tuned into Whad'ya Know...listening and laughing along...whilst working on an article about the South Dakota Hall of Fame - if you have not visited you need to...and that's a whole 'nother story.

You can listen in to what Michael has to say about all that by clicking on this Whad'ya Know link. The action starts at about 1:35.

Michael, YOU ROCK!

Great grandma's Molasses Cake Recipe

2011-03-05T13:20:00.000-08:00

Oh, my great-grandmother made the most delicious molasses cake! And she mixed it by hand in a bowl with a wooden spoon. No electrical appliances for her. Today, I use that same bowl in my kitchen. Here's her recipe. Enjoy big pieces of this cake, it's good for you.

Molasses Cake
1 cup blackstrap molasses
1 cup cold water
1 cup sugar
3 teaspoons ginger, more if you really like ginger
1 teaspoon allspice
2 eggs
1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
3 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda

1. Cream butter and sugar.
2. Add molasses and eggs and beat well.
3. Add water and beat well.
4. Mix together dry ingredients (flour, ginger, allspice, salt, baking soda).
5. Add dry ingredients and water, a little at a time, and beat well.
6. Don't make batter too stiff. Add more water if needed.
7. Pour into buttered 9 x 13 cake pan or 2 round pans.
8. Bake at 325 for 35 min. Test with toothpick to make sure cake is done. This is a dense cake.

Enjoy. I like mine with milk or warm tea. Frosting is an option.

If blackstrap molasses is too strong tasting for you, use light molasses. Gingersnap blend from The Spice House is a good substitute for the ginger and allspice.

World News

2011-02-13T14:26:00.000-08:00

In July Southern Sudanese voted on whether or not they wanted independence. The world learned the results on February 7th: 98.8% of those voting wanted independence. Decisive to say the least, and extremely good news for those wanting independence.

This past week after 18 days of intense protests calling for his resignation, Hosni Mubarak did just that: resigned as President of Egypt.

Two historic world events, wouldn't you agree?

It has made me incredibly sad to be surrounded by folks who don't care, are not interested, and wonder what this has to do with them. I'm not guessing what they are thinking or feeling, they are telling me this - in very plain and sometimes profane language.

Why are we not interested when a nation gains its freedom in a peaceful fashion? Why are we not interested when a dictator is overthrown with minimal bloodshed on those last 18 days of his power. Why?

I have my ideas...what are yours?

Epiphany

2011-01-06T16:18:00.000-08:00

Today is Epiphany, the day my Grandmother always took down the Christmas tree and all the other Christmas decorations no.matter.what. Fondly remembering removing tinsel from the tree so we could use it the following year, and wrapping all those delicate ornaments in tissue paper and packing them in their boxes.

The Gift

2011-01-03T21:23:00.000-08:00

Mid-day on Christmas Eve I heard a vehicle door slam. A quick glance out the window revealed a red truck, and a good friend walking towards my back porch holding a box. This is not unusual as this particular good friend comes over on a regular enough basis with boxes of stuff. This past summer it was produce to preserve and split with her. Other times it is a box of goodies for some project or other that we are working on.

As I opened the door and said "Hi", she thrust the box into my arms and retreated back to her truck for another box. "Merry Christmas" said my friend with a smile on her face. It was present exchanging time! We've been known to exchange very practical gifts - food, baked items, hats, school supplies (I love school supplies, but that's another story) or silly stuff, like necklaces from those machines outside discount stores.

I was stunned, and happy and deeply moved by her kindness and her gift of love. She knows me, and so packed those two boxes with stuff I desperately needed and would truly appreciate. I got laundry detergent without fragrance, and dish soap that won't remove the skin from my hands, toilet paper, stew meat and bacon - I love bacon and stew meat. Oranges - I'm particularly fond of oranges this time of year. Potatoes and oatmeal. Oatmeal is on the menu here most winter days. And then there was the big package of duplex cookies. A favorite treat for me since childhood - and I do try really, really hard to eat only a couple a day. Oh, yes, flour and sugar so I can bake.

I'm touched, and grateful. It's wonderful to be loved. It's more wonderful to be loved by a woman on a Calling. Thanks, good friend.

New Year

2011-01-01T15:10:00.000-08:00

My oh my oh my. That blizzard sure did dump on us! The town crew has been out for a good part of the day plowing and hauling snow - and they are doing a splendid job of it. And there's all those folks out with various snow-removal-pieces-of-equipment clearing driveways and sidewalks. Patiently awaiting my turn, whilst I bake bread for the wonderful person who will do the deed.

Blizzard Warning

2010-12-31T07:04:00.000-08:00

Oh, baby it's cold outside. The weatherperson says: "Blizzard warning. Stay home."

Doing just that. The home office is mostly closed. Today is all about reading magazines and doing other stuff - baking bread, making homemade crackers, noshing on cheese and chutneys and pickles, and knitting a neck warmer. And as always planning and thinking about some projects, and mulling over writing projects. What are you doing? Leave a comment to report on your activities, won'tcha please.

SD Weather vs New Year's Eve Party

2010-12-30T06:08:00.000-08:00

The New Year's Eve Party scheduled for Dec. 31, 3 p.m. at the Kimball Senior Center is postponed due to the weather forecast. Details will be announced as soon as we have it figured out.

Broken Resolve

2010-12-29T16:21:00.001-08:00

Broken Resolve performing at Kimball Protestant Parish, 8 p.m., Dec. 29.

Free will offering to get in. T-shirts for sale.

Hoping the Weather Doesn't Catch Us...

2010-12-29T05:21:00.001-08:00

Sure hoping the weather doesn't catch us, because we have lots going on in the next couple days.

Tournament action this week.

Plankinton hosts the first day of the Boys and Girls Holiday Classic Basketball Tournament - Wednesday, December 29, starting at noon. Kimball hosts the second day, Thursday, December 30, again starting at noon.

The McCook Invitational Wresting Tournament starts at 9 a.m. in Salem.

Come on out and support our youth athletes and partake of the concessions.

Population

2010-12-27T14:21:00.000-08:00

Well, it's official. The US Census Bureau has determined that the population of South Dakota exceeds 800,000. The 7.9 percent increase since the 2000 Census puts the final count at 814,180. This news made me pause.

The Census Bureau also listed South Dakota as one of the five least populated states and one of the five states with the lowest population density. Another pause.

I've lived in cities with higher populations.

Tournament Action

2010-12-27T07:00:00.000-08:00

Looking forward to the tournament action this week.

Plankinton hosts the first day of the Boys and Girls Holiday Classic Basketball Tournament - Wednesday, December 29, starting at noon. Kimball hosts the second day, Thursday, December 30, again starting at noon.

The McCook Invitational Wresting Tournament starts at 9 a.m. in Salem.

Come on out and support our youth athletes and partake of the concessions.

DZIENKUJE

2010-12-26T07:31:00.000-08:00

Dzienkuje, Thank you, to everyone for the wonderful Community Christmas Dinner. There is just nothing like old friends and newly made friends combined with incredible food and stories to make for a wonderful community Christmas meal.

I know a few folks knocked themselves out baking all day to make the delicious desserts and treats, homemade pies, candied sweet potatoes and dressing to go along with the turkey and ham and smashed potatoes. Dzienkuje.

Dzienkuje (jeen-koo-yeh), Polish for Thank You.

Those pies were so good, Soozi!

Community Christmas Dinner & New Year's Eve Party

2010-12-20T17:02:00.000-08:00

Yup, you read that right. A Community Christmas Dinner and a Community New Year's Eve Party. Details:

Help us spread the word..

Community Christmas Dinner - Everyone Welcome
2 - 4 p.m. Christmas Day at Kimball Protestant Parish
Ham provided, and turkey, too
Pickles and other stuff to nibble on
Potluck welcomed, but not required
Needed:
Folks who want to eat Christmas dinner in a community setting
Volunteers to help set up, clean up, serve and deliver home meals
A gathering of good folks eating good food

Community New Year's Eve Party - Everyone Welcome
3 - 9 p.m. Kimball Senior Center
3 p.m. - coffee
4 p.m. - Polka Czechs
5 p.m. - Light supper (bring a dish to pass if you wish - but not required)
6 p.m. - Bingo (prize donations appreciated)

We'll be eating whatever it is we gather in donations. Bingo will go until all prizes are gone or we're sick of playing - we'll decide that night. And...no alcohol at this event.

Christmas Recital

2010-12-18T21:46:00.000-08:00

Current and former vocal and instrumental instructors at Kimball School will perform during a Christmas Recital, Sunday, 7 p.m. at St. Margaret Church. Kimball Music Ambassadors, who are headed to Europe in the Summer of 2011, will also perform.

St. Margaret Church is a magnificent array of Christmas greens, wreaths and lights. This is a spectacular event.

Trees and Nativities

2010-12-17T16:25:00.000-08:00

In 2009 the South Dakota Hall of Fame began what I hope is a long tradition of featuring decorated Christmas trees and nativity scenes. Thirteen trees and over a hundred nativity scenes are on display until early January. Enjoy... Just received word that the nativity scenes will stay on display until the end of January...now you can really enjoy!

#1 - Oak by Amish and Vaad Framing

#2 Bent Spatula

#3 - River City Band Festival

#4 - 4-H Extension Office

#5 – Chamber of Commerce and Dayle Chilson

#6 – Prime CattleWomen

#7 – South Dakota Hall of Fame

#8 – Pat Blum - nativity scenes. Just a few of the over 100 on display.

#9 – Blum Brothers

#10 – River City Wood Carvers - People's Choice Award Winner

#11 – Welcome West Plaza

#12 – Sanford Hospital

#13 – Kiwanis

#14 – Dakota Milestones

Spectacular, huh?

People's Choice Award

2010-12-17T00:52:00.000-08:00

For the second year, the South Dakota Hall of Fame featured Christmas trees decorated by area individuals and organizations. This year's display included 13 trees and about a hundred nativity scenes.

New to the event this year is a People's Choice award. And the winner is.....River City Wood Carvers. Hall of Fame President and CEO, Todd Knutson presented the award to Dr. Tom Stone of the River City Wood Carvers.

The winning tree was decorated with hand carved and painted wooden ornaments, large wood shaving curls and hand painted gourds - a lovely South Dakota tree.

Kram the Kanyon

2010-12-14T09:35:00.000-08:00

Kram the Kanyon is an activity of the National Honor Society at Kimball School. This year the sixth grade class will be running the concessions - a potato bar. I'm telling you - I cannot wait.

Last year was my first experience with this event. To put it in simple terms - WOW! The whole town turns out for the girls basketball game. Donations are taken for K-6 outerwear and items for Kimball Center, which manages the local food pantry. Pretty much it's standing room only, lots of stuff is collected, and come early to eat.

Need more info? Check out the Kimball School website.

We'll be seein' ya' there.

Saint Lucy's Day

2010-12-13T00:10:00.000-08:00

Scandinavians and others around the world today are celebrating St. Lucia's Day or St. Lucy's Day - the day of light. Such a lovely celebration it is with young girls processing whilst holding a lighted candle, led by a young maiden with a lit-candle studded wreath upon her head. Spectacular.

St. Lucia is the patron of blindness. Her feast, resplendent with candlelight, is held on December 13, the longest night of the year on the traditional Julian calendar. In some Swedish homes, a daughter dresses in a white dress adorned with a red sash, the evergreen wreath on her head holding lighted candles. She bears a tray holding a hot drink and lussekatter, Lucian buns made with saffron. She offers these gifts as treats to family members as she awakens them from their sleep.

Trying a little experiment

2010-12-07T15:42:00.000-08:00

If you know me, you know I like trying new things. I've become a huge fan and user of Face Book - the cream of social networking as far as I'm concerned. And how, exactly, do I benefit from such a venture?

Well, let me tell you...I've been able to stay in contact with folks in the other places I've lived. I stay in touch with folks I've met in one place or another. And, I have friends on Face Book that I've never met face to face. I know some people disagree with that. But where else would I meet and have the opportunity to have a conversation with a young design professional in....let's say Mumbai, India? We chat every once-in-a-while, and I get to see some of the most upbeat and fresh designs ever--something I truly enjoy.

The very best part of social networking is the fact that I can help build social and economic networks. And really, that's it in a nutshell for me - building relationships and networks, having quick exchanges of ideas and most importantly having just plain ol' fun.

So, along those lines, here's a really cool, new Face Book site to check out and "friend." Kimball, South Dakota features nice little tidbits and news about my new hometown. And no, I'm not the person behind the site. I'm one of the persons behind the person behind the site. So let's all give some support to that person. A "like" would be appreciated.

Third Place

2010-12-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

What's a third place anyway? Well, a first place is home, a second place is work. A third place is the place where we gather for fun, perhaps a drink, something sweet or a sandwich. A place where we meet friends, old and new. Perhaps, we can listen to music there, have access to wi-fi, and even conduct a bit of business.

A favorite third place for me is Stumpjack Coffee Company. Incredible nirvana hot or cold coffee drinks, nirvana atmosphere, handcrafted lunches, great companionship, incredible music, art shows and conversation - and way more - the list is long. And the business that was done there which abundant and varied and fun. Actually budgeted money each week for spending at this wonderful place (and I miss is severely). And let me tell you, there was plenty of planning and implementing of community "things" in that third place.

I can't tell you how many times I'd be talking with someone about a potential community event only to have another person or two walk in for coffee and then spontaneously join the conversation.

I'm in agreement with the folks over at the Kimball, South Dakota Face Book page who think it's time for Kimball to have it's own third place, a coffee shop, sweet shoppe, sandwich emporium and meeting place.

Our Hearts are Broken

2010-12-04T06:46:00.000-08:00

On Monday we are saying goodbye to a wonderful man and the community Santa. We are all stunned and our hearts are broken.

Thanksgiving Thankful

2010-11-30T14:17:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful community Thanksgiving meal we had. Almost 50 meals were served, several as home delivered meals. And the food we consumed was, well, a considerable amount. Will we do it again? Yes, we will. And, sorry, no photos. Was way too busy eating and having a good time. Thanks to everyone who volunteered, everyone who ate all that wonderful food, and everyone who donated to the meal. Well done!

Just Ducky

2010-11-22T17:13:00.000-08:00

Whilst living on the eastern shores of Wisconsin I enjoyed the yearly May performances of Heart-a-Rama. Pure fun, and good jokes mostly at the expense of various "locals."

The Ola Players of Ola, SD recently presented "Just Ducky" at the Ola Hall in Ola, SD, population 106. A wonderful three-part farce replete with local jokes and innuendo.

A couple of my favorites. A young actress is bemoaning her "too common of a name. " by repeating many, many times that she would stand out in the crowd if her last name was something like "Konechne" (ka-nich-knee). That statement brings the house down, folks are hooting and hollering and clapping. I look at the couple sitting next to me. They say "Her maiden name is Konechne." Now I get it: She's really poking fun of her huge extended family, some of whom are in attendance. Koneche is sort of the SD version of have a surname like: Smith. If one is not a Konechne by birth, they are related by marriage to a Konechne.

An even bigger laugh was garnered by Aunt Mary, a crotchety old lady played by Pam. In the play Aunt Mary's (never seen) husband is Ted, as is her real-life husband, who is in attendance. In one scene Aunt Mary is going on and on and on to her niece that "Ted won't like this. Ted won't put up with this. Ted is going to do something about this. Just wait till I tell Ted. Ted is going to do something about this." Out of the darkness in the very back row comes a voice "NO HE WONT!"

We all recognized that voice as belonging to the real-life Ted shouting out to his wife. That brought the house down, stopped the play, got a standing ovation and made us laugh so hard we cried and the actors needed a prompt to continue.

Remembering

2010-11-22T05:11:00.000-08:00

Sadly remembering that 47 years ago I was in eighth grade English class when a student crazed by the shock of it all ran through the halls screaming at the top of his lungs, "The President is dead! The President is dead!" Just minutes before he had secured a hall pass to use the bathroom and was in there listening to his transistor radio - a contraband item in our school. I remember going home and knitting while I watched the TV.

Is this some kinda' sign or something?

2010-11-20T17:57:00.000-08:00

I've lived in the country for a good part of my life. I am quite attuned to avoiding wild life whilst driving. In all my years of Wisconsin living, I've hit only one deer - she ran into me. Put a nose-sized dent in the front passenger side quarter panel. Layed stunned along side my car for 20 minutes or so while I awaited assistance from the "authorities." And then suddenly got up, shook her head and slung deer snot all over the trunk of the car, and ran off.

Since moving to South Dakota last year, I've had my share of near misses and vehicle-bird contacts with pheasants. I tell you, those birds just run under the tires, and fly into my windshield. I always feel bad when I feel and hear that t.h.u.m.p that lets you know another pheasant has just been dispatched.

So, anyway. Earlier this week, while driving on a dirt road early in the morning, a rooster pheasant came running up out of the ditch like his life depended on escaping that ditch. Only problem is, he ran right under the tire. Smashed. Smashed bad I'm thinkin'.

And he stuck there. Thump.......thump......thump. While glancing to my right to see if I can pull over at all so I can scrape what is left of the pheasant off the tire, I see a buck - as in male deer - headed my way. On a direct collision course with me. I can tell I can not avoid this collision. I know he is going to cream the side of my van.

"Oh, please, No. Not today. No. No. No." The deer jumps the fence. And in slow motion I see the deer take a header into the deep, deep ditch. And just lay there. Not moving at all.

I don't know what to say or think. I manage to stop the vehicle, get out in time to see the pheasant tumble from atop the tire and check on the deer. Dead.

I don't know. What can I say...

U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree

2010-11-16T14:50:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Capitol Christmas Tree is on its way from Bridger - Teton National Forest in Wyoming to the front lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C.

The tree will be at Chamberlain Elementary School on the evening of Friday, November 19. Folks stopping by to see the tree can sign the banner accompanying the tree on it's trek to Washington.

Track the Tree here. Click the candy canes on the map to read fun facts and see images from celebrations. Track the Tree is also on Facebook and Twitter.

At 5 p.m. tonight it was near Laramie, WY. I'll bet my Laramie relatives where there to greet it.

Margaret of Scotland

2010-11-16T00:10:00.000-08:00

November 16: Today is the feast day of St. Margaret of Scotland, patron saint of St. Margaret Catholic Church in Kimball.

St. Margaret, born in exile in Hungary, married Malcolm III, King of Scots.While queen consort of Scotland, Margaret bore eight children and devoted her life to encouraging her husband and teaching her children to be just and kind to the people of Scotland.

Margaret is known for her works of charity. She frequently visited and cared for the sick. She built hostels for housing the poor. During Advent and Lent she held feasts at the royal castle for as many as 300 commoners.

Much loved by her subjects, Margaret died at the age of 47, her body no longer able to sustain her rigorous schedule of prayer and charity work. She died on November 16, 1093.

Community Thanksgiving Dinner

2010-11-08T16:08:00.000-08:00

Community Thanksgiving Dinner
Serving 2 - 4 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day at Kimball Protestant Parish

Details to follow. Watch for posters around town and information online.

The birds are flocking up

2010-10-28T17:00:00.000-07:00

I've noticed over the past few weeks that the birds have been flocking up...majorly. Last week it was hard to safely drive down the road. It was unnerving to drive through flocks of birds flying low over the road.

For the past two days we've had high winds, and snow and the birds have seemed to disappear. No more flocking birds. Well, that's not quite true. I found a flock on my front lawn this afternoon.

I'm terribly fond of flamingos, so I'm happy to have this flock on my front lawn. Trouble is, though, now I have to figure out who should have the flock next. Anyone? Or...anyone wanna pay me to not flock them?

Blessed Fr. Jerzy Popieluszko

2010-10-19T01:00:00.000-07:00

In the Catholic Church ones becomes declared Blessed on their way to Sainthood. To journey down that path, one must be a martyr for their faith and for the Church.

The harsh political climate of Communist Poland gave birth to Blessed Fr. Jerzy Popieluszko. Today, October 19 is his day.

In the 1980s I was glued to the television for the latest news about Solidarity, the Polish shipyard workers union. It started in Gdansk and spread to the steelworkers in Warsaw, Poland's capitol. There were many clashes between Union members and supporters and the Communist government, violent clashes. The world watched closely, every night. We read about it too. Especially in my home town, an enclave of decedents of Polish folks who came to America in the 1880s.

Father Popieluszko, while a young priest in Warsaw, became the spiritual leader for Solidarity. He instituted workers masses where he preached against the Communist regime and it's inhumane treatment of its own citizens. The Communist regime hated Father Popieluszko. Other priests picked up on the the workers masses and they, too, began preaching against the regime.

When Solidarity was declared an illegal organization and marshal law was declared in Poland in 1981, Father Popieluszko stepped up his criticism of the government.

On October 19, 1984, the Communist government decided they had had enough. Shortly after leaving a meeting with Cardinal Glemp in Warsaw, Father Popieluszko was kidnapped by agents of the secret police. He was beaten and tortured, forced into a bag weighted with stones and thrown into the Vistula Water Reservoir.

His body was recovered on October 30. People poured into Warsaw for his funeral, some estimates place the crowd at a million strong. They filled the church and stood in the street and mourned the man who lead them, and prayed for them, and gave them strength.

That was the beginning of the end of the Communist regime. The Polish people had had enough.

On June 6, 2010, people once again poured into Warsaw for the Beatification of Fr. Popieluszko. Included among those was his 100 year old mother.

I was reminded of all of this by a friend of Fr. Popieluszko. Thank you, Father Andrew. Thank you for coming to this town and reminding us about your dear friend.

“If we must die suddenly, it is surely better to meet death defending a worthwhile cause than sitting back and letting injustice win.” Father Jerzy Popieluszko

What One Learns by Working at the Paper

2010-10-18T16:12:00.000-07:00

Actually, I do like proofreading the paper. It's like reading the paper before anyone else. You know all the latest news before other folks do. We proofread the paper on Monday.

Proofreading comes as separate articles, one per page, placed in a stack. The routine is simple, pick up a stack, read, edit, sign off, put on bottom of stack. When done with the stack, return it to the proofreading desk and grab the next stack.

Midstack, I happened upon an article with a photo of a young man impishly staring back at me. I picked it up, and looked at that photo. Why, that's the young man I used to work with over at the restaurant where I worked before coming to the paper. We often worked that same night shift and would chat with each other.

I liked him. A sweet young man. Helpful, thoughtful, kind. I had been wondering recently how he was doing. In fact, I thought of him quite a bit last week.We both left the restaurant at about the same time to pursue other things. Last time I saw him, he told me he was happy with his new "thing". As I am with mine.

Well, I thought, let's proofread this article and see what my friend is up to. It was then that I realized I was proofreading.his.obituary. Gone, passed on, dead. Way too young.

Very, very sad day.

Feeding the Hunters

2010-10-17T13:17:00.000-07:00

Pheasant hunting is a big deal in South Dakota. And so is feeding all the hunters who flood into our community, especially for the first couple weeks of the 12-week season.

So along those lines, the good folks at the Kimball Protestant Parish, which in itself is worth a post because they are three denominations who worship together, are putting on a pork feed.

I volunteered "to work" this event, so my part is show up early to cut bars, fill water pitchers and coffee carafes and then work the tables pouring these two beverages. I can't wait! And I mean it. This will be so much fun!

Yesterday I met guys who've been coming to our little town to hunt for the past 50 years! Oh, the stories I heard.

Mr. Smith

2010-10-13T16:29:00.000-07:00

V J Smith, a man with connections to Kimball will be speaking at the White Lake School gym at 7 p.m. on Monday, October 18.

His topic? Life's Greatest Moments - the story of how he met the richest man in town.

You will be awed, renewed, and motivated after listening to this presentation. VJ will be available to sign copies of his book The Richest Man in Town after the program.

Thanks to Dona over in White Lake for being so persistent in getting VJ to come over this way and speak to us. Interested in carpooling? Call me....

Breakfast

2010-10-05T07:13:00.000-07:00

Yes, this is exactly what you think it is: a tomato, zucchini, fresh herb quiche, warm buttermilk biscuits and apple butter with ginger for slathering atop the buttered biscuits. And, let.me.tell.you, it was delicious!

Homecoming

2010-10-01T06:15:00.000-07:00

Today's the big day - Homecoming. Kids, teachers and other helpers will be furiously decorating floats, but only after attending the pep rally.

Parade at 1:30, candy scramble at 2:30, tail gate party at 5:30, and the Big Game at 7:00. I'll be there. For all of it. ~~Dressed in red and black in honor of my alma mater - go Panthers!~~ Update: Oh, boy. Changed clothes and avoided a major faux pas by learning just in the knick of time that red and black are the team colors for our opponents! Yikes...that could have been...embarrassing.

I should probably get some Kelly Green to honor the local Kiotes. I could buy a Kiote t-shirt and put it on over my Panther gear. Yup I could do that.

The weather is perfect for homecoming, so off it is to have a good, good day.

Breakfast

2010-09-28T07:52:00.000-07:00

Told myself as I was fixing breakfast this morning that I would take a photo and share. Sorry, no photo. Got distracted...by the the good food. When it was arranged so very prettily on the plate, I admired it, and then scarfed it down. D.e.l.i.c.i.o.u.s. Yes that would describe it, purely d.e.l.i.c.i.o.u.s.

Locally raised eggs scrambled with cilantro
Prepared in a pan seasoned with olive oil and butter from local milk
Topped with my own salsa: tomatoes, scallions, peppers, lime juice, cumin (left out cilantro, it's in the eggs)
Sides: sliced dilled cucumbers, pickled roasted peppers, zucchini orange jelly.
Washed down with rosehip ginger tea, my own special blend.

I'm really wishing I'd taken a photo, it was so pretty!

Homecoming Week

2010-09-27T16:38:00.000-07:00

It's Homecoming Week here. I've been thinking of my own Homecoming Weeks and asking locals about this town's homecoming customs.

At my high school, the candidates were always a dating couple. Not so here. Folks here are fascinated to learn that. "Really? Wow, why?" is the usual response. I just chuckle, and tell them I had the exact same response when I learned that it's not done that way here. We had that extra bit of drama of making sure the couples did not break up before homecoming. Imagine the inconvenience that could be.

And we didn't just "burn the K", we had a real honest.to.goodness bonfire. I think we took a couple days to build it. If I remember correctly, we saved stuff for it - like tree branches and cardboard, old furniture and odd pieces of wood. It was always topped off with an outhouse. We'd throw an accelerant on it, light it somehow, and snake dance around it. I can also seem to remember lot's of hollering, singing and beating kettles with spoons. (As an aside, we'd be in trouble at home for taking the deer hunting kettles and spoons to the bonfire. Folks in our neck of the woods would drive deer by walking through the woods pounding on kettles with spoons and hollering to scare the deer. But that's a whole 'nother story.)

When I tell that tidbit to folks around here, they are all wide-eyed about it. I don't think the school district allows that bonfire business anymore. I know they don't. They don't want repeats of some of the antics of my classmates who threw gas bombs into the fire, or something equally, shall we say, s.t.u.p.i.d.

And the biggest difference, was that the King and Queen were not crowned until Friday, just before the parade. I think the candidates were announced two weeks before, so there was some heavy campaigning going on.

The King and Queen for this year's homecoming will be announced tonight For the rest of the week they will reign over various activities, including the burning of the K tonight, and the homecoming parade on Friday.

Larder or Pantry, if you prefer, Chapter II

2010-09-22T16:12:00.000-07:00

Moroccan cauliflower and carrots
Moroccan beets
Salsa, steaming hot
Curry pickle relish
Yellow tomato marmalade with lemon thyme and sage
Red onion relish

Larder or Pantry, if you prefer

2010-09-06T21:30:00.000-07:00

Added to the larder this week:

Canned tomatoes, the yellow lemon boys get the award for eye-appeal
Salsa
Christmas pickles using Grandma's recipe
Cherry Koolickles
Lime Koolickles
Caramelized onion relish
Dill pickle relish
Sweet pickle and pepper relish
Zucchini relish with a bit of a kick to it
Marinara sauce
Tomato juice
Armenian dill pickles

And there is still more produce hanging around the kitchen and pantry just waiting to go into a jar.

Need more shelving...

Fall Weather

2010-09-03T18:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, thank you, I am enjoying the fall-like weather. Had to rummage around last night to find a blanket for the bed. Yes, thank you very much, I am enjoying the fall-like weather.

The KIP Ladies

2010-09-02T05:52:00.000-07:00

It's always fun to potluck with friends and fellow club members. It's even more fun to witness the free-wheeling yearly planning process of a group of ladies who've been doing this for a long time. In some cases over thirty years.

During introductions one lady said, "I'm Audrey, and I've been with KIP for over 32 years. Held every office at least twice, and nope, don't ask again." That introduction drew simultaneous laughter and a round of applause. I think she's our Queen.

The best part of the evening was witnessing all the younger ladies freely offering ideas and signing up to work on events.

Canning Season

2010-09-01T19:04:00.000-07:00

Are you in the throes of canning? I am. Using mostly variations of my grandma's canning recipes. Written on index cards--some while I was still in high school.

Do you have a favorite canning recipe?

Rural Housing, or the lack thereof...

2010-08-18T18:06:00.000-07:00

. . . as my friend Rebecca is sadly finding out, it's mostly the lack thereof. Check out her Renting in a Rural Area post at Flying Tomato Farm.

I'm hoping Rebecca finds suitable housing. It's South Dakota's loss that she's found a new position in Minnesota - they are so lucky. I hope they realize that.

Front step flower garden

2010-08-18T04:42:00.000-07:00

I love looking at this little garden each time I use the front door.

Canning Season

2010-08-16T10:38:00.000-07:00

So excited about using the strainer gizmo to make tomato sauce tonight. It will cook down overnight in a crock pot with the cover askew. And then come Tuesday, into jars and a hot water bath. Post bath residence will be amidst other jars of canned goodness in the larder, or pantry if you prefer.

Oh, yes, then there's the pickling party on Tuesday. Well, providing the cukes arrive in time. Ordered three bushels from the lovely Hutterite family who was selling produce near the house this past Saturday.

So what's your favorite thing to can...or your favorite canned thing to eat?

Photos to follow?

Kimball Klassic and more

2010-08-12T19:05:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 14: Kimball Classic Car Show, Kolache Days, farmers market, city-wide rummage sales, arts and crafts and food at American Legion Hall, and a Street Dance. Here's a few shots from last year's car show. Stop by and say "howdy", The Front Porch will be open.

KIP Salad Supper

2010-06-11T04:08:00.000-07:00

The KIP Ladies have been around a long time and do lots of good things around town. The salad supper is a major fund raiser for this group, so come on out and support them.

Make a better world

2010-05-18T06:51:00.000-07:00

While doing some on-line research, I ran across an essay about working together. Going to quote part of it here. It speaks for itself.

"People working together is the most important thing we can do. . . . People working together can change the world...

People working together can lead to many good things. Working together can resolve problems. Working together you learn to respect others and the differences you have.

When you work together with some, you can find out that you may like the person you thought you didn't like. Working together can help people not to fight. People working together can even end wars.
People must work together because we only have one Earth to live on. People working together can start as a little thing.

You never know how your actions can inspire other people to do great things and actually change the world and bring people closer together."

Pretty good, huh? Simple and deep at the same time. Award winning essay written by a ten year old.

There's more to this essay. There's more I have to say about this essay. That's for another day.

Spring Time in the neighborhood

2010-05-05T07:58:00.000-07:00

Apple blossom time...

Exclusively Yours

2010-05-04T10:43:00.000-07:00

I love Jo Stadler for two reasons....well, actually for three reasons:
1. Cold brewed coffees
2. My favorite pasta

3. She opened the cutest gift shop

Uniquely Yours just off I90 exit 284, Kimball, SD. Next to John's Tire, near the Clark gas station.

Osage Lakota Artworks

2010-05-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

I'm knowing Laurie Apple will be gettin' some of my money at her newly opened business, Osage Lakota Artworks. Formerly an e-based business, Osage Lakota Artworks is now a bricks and mortar offering wonderful beadwork, canes, beading supplies and prairie turnips.

Located just off Interstate 90 exit 284 at Kimball, SD, near the tractor museum.

Busy, busy

2010-05-03T19:44:00.000-07:00

Senior Project and Scholarship night tonight.

FFA Banquet tomorrow night.

Especially touching to hear Dave Lehr's tribute to his wife Sarah. He said the scholarship given in her memory was for a student with a "can do" attitude. He said that is what Sarah was all about, a can do attitude. Amen.

Today's the Day

2010-05-01T07:24:00.000-07:00

J-A-N-S Frosty King is opening today. I was advised to come early and stand in line, and no I was not going to get free food for being first in line. In fact, I was advised that I would probably not be first in line. Taking camera, photos will be posted.

Walking for Love

2010-04-29T07:55:00.000-07:00

A wind-blown Dan Lyons walked into Kimball mid-afternoon yesterday, stayed for supper and visited with us, spent the night and left early today. Walking to White Lake in a light rain. Expected over there early afternoon.

Dan is an extraordinary guy. He left Olympia, Washington earlier this year, taking a northern route to avoid bad weather on a southern route. Headed to West Palm Beach, Florida. Walking to raise awareness about Locks of Love, a program that provided a hair piece for his 17 year old daughter during her fight against breast cancer. Dan's on his fifth walk across the US. He started walking to bring awareness, but also to clear his head. You see, Dan lost his daughter to breast cancer and not long after that, his dear wife to a drunk driver. Dan walks so we can know.

The importance of story in your life, chapter 2

2010-04-28T19:11:00.000-07:00

Update from previous post:

from amillionmiles.com

Book arrived today, thank you very much. I'll be diving right in...

Dan Lyons

2010-04-27T19:56:00.000-07:00

photo courtesy of Billings Gazette

Who's Dan Lyons and why are we getting together with him?

Well, Dan is from California, and he's walking across the US to bring awareness to the Locks of Love program. He lost his daughter and wife to cancer, and is himself a cancer survivor.

Please join Dan for dinner and a brief presentation on the Locks of Love program at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 28th, at Ditty's Diner. Dan is not soliciting funds, but has information on how to donate to Locks of Love.

Let's show Dan some good Kimball hospitality.

Spring at Christiansen Park

2010-04-26T04:34:00.000-07:00

Christiansen Park, named in honor of Helen Christiansen who donated the land for the park, is a tiny bit of tree-shaded oasis in downtown Kimball. Purple phlox and other perennials have been poking their heads up.

Prairie Quilts

2010-04-25T19:42:00.000-07:00

Our little community says *we love you* 211 times. That's how many quilts were dedicated. They are heading to new homes around the world.

Hay River pumpkin seed oil

2010-04-24T06:16:00.000-07:00

photo courtesy of Hay River (tm)

Just read a Facebook post from friends Jay and Ken regarding building their business at Hay River. They produce the most incredible organic pumpkin seed oil. Now I know you want some of this. It's just a few clicks away - visit their website at Hayriver.net . Buy directly from Jay and Ken and help them build their business.

Here's the back story. Jay and Ken lost their home to an early morning fire on March 27th. Because their pumpkin seed oil is not stored at the house, it's safe from the fire. Their plan is to build their business, which will help them financially and also benefit their community. Here's a quote from their website: " We don't want sympathy purchases, we want real customers."

So get off this blog and go buy some pumpkin seed oil and pass this information along.

Around town

2010-04-22T19:44:00.000-07:00

Saw these lovelies on latest walk around town. Tulips are pretty, but lily of the valley are my favorite flower...thus, making me love muguet de bois perfume as a teenager.

Mural and phlox

2010-04-22T05:28:00.000-07:00

I just love the mural at the downtown city park in Kimball, SD...and the phlox that grow there...

Eleven Days

2010-04-20T06:11:00.000-07:00

Eleven days till my favorite summer hang out opens. Easy on-off at I90 exit 248, Kimball, South Dakota.

Springness

2010-04-18T16:51:00.000-07:00

Signs of spring as seen around town this week...

Parking

2010-04-18T15:36:00.000-07:00

Guessing the person in the red truck was late for the city council meeting, and our only police officer did not notice because he was at said meeting. On the other hand I've noticed this style of parking in other parts of town. It's nice living in a small town.

New Friends

2010-04-15T12:41:00.000-07:00

Linda and Sonja are just the sweetest ladies. They own the The Quilt Shop on Main Street in Chamberlain, South Dakota.

Walked in there to buy buttons and emerged an hour later with two new friends, the cutest vintage buttons and some "other stuff". The most amazing thing happened in that hour...we found out how much we love our little towns and want to see them prosper. I'm thinking I'll be seeing more of Sonja and Linda, and I think you should, too.

That Dreams sign tacked to the face of the step leading to their shop says it all.