Holgate Middle School teachers Mia Fries and Tabitha Walks asked their 7th grade language arts students one question: What is your favorite place in Aberdeen? The following pieces show a glimpse into what makes our town so special…..
Crunch, crunch. You step quietly through the grass. Suddenly, a pheasant bursts into the sky. Bam! Every year, my dad, our dogs, and I go pheasant hunting. It’s exciting and full of action. That’s why I think Aberdeen is the best place for pheasant hunting.
–CAMDEN RHODES
When you were a kid, what place made you explode with happiness? For me, it’s the fairgrounds – mainly during the county fair. The immense quantity of food and the show animals there are a few things that the fair offers. With its countless activities, the fairgrounds is my favorite place in Aberdeen.
–AYDEN MOFFENBIER
Dark trees surround you as you walk through the forest on Halloween night. Suddenly, a creepy clown jumps out and scares you! That’s why I love the Haunted Forest. It’s something I look forward to every year. Going with my family makes it even more fun and unforgettable.
–AUGUST GRUBA
Aberdeen’s best place to be is at the Retrocade! It has some of the best games like Dig Dug and Pac-Man. It also has candy bars, soda, merchandise, freshly popped popcorn, and RECORDS FOR YOU TO BEAT! That is why the Retrocade is the BEST PLACE in Aberdeen!
–CHARLIE EVELO
I am new to Aberdeen, but I like to go to Kessler’s because it is a good store to go out to and get food. You should go to Kessler’s because it’s cool and fun and you can get chips and food.
–PABLO DURAN
You strap into your seat and see the gas pedal waiting. You’re at Thunder Road. It’s a place where you can race without a license. I love speeding around the track and bumping into my friends. It’s perfect for parties and always leaves me laughing.
–AISSA PETERSON
The bell dings as I walk in and smell fresh coffee all around me. I see cute clothes and even an escape room sign. That’s Karisma Boutique. It’s my favorite place to hang out because there’s always something fun to do. It’s definitely one of the best spots in Aberdeen.
–SCARLETT SMITH
Bam! A baseball cracks off the bat while players run and cheer. That’s the Aberdeen Dome. You can play almost any sport there— baseball, soccer, football, and more. It’s always busy and full of energy. That’s why I think the Dome makes Aberdeen such a unique place.
–TAREK HOFFMANN
Block 2 – Back Row: Brooklyn Beck, Scarlett Smith, Morgan Jung, Mallory Casper, Paisley Quiram, Aissa Peterson, Tarek Hoffmann, Emmit Hammond. Middle Row: Kailynn
Prunty, Rose Velazquez Padilla, Tezanna Lay, Alexis Littrell, Lily Selzler, Autumn Groneberg, Ashlynn Madsen, Zaniya McIntosh. Front Row: Holden Bohms, Emma Bishop, Noah Grode, Brolin Cavanaugh, Sylvester Twiggs, Chloe Reich, Raelyn Hadrick, Riley Gehring. Not Pictured: Reagan Wobst.
What is your favorite place in Aberdeen, South Dakota? My favorite place in Aberdeen is Storybook Land. This is my favorite because my family goes there a lot during the summer. People should visit there because there are fun rides and a zoo connected! I suggest this place to anyone.
–NAW GAY
Imagine tasting the best ice cream ever on a hot summer day. That’s Twist Cone. I love going there because the ice cream is amazing, and there are so many choices. From banana splits to root beer floats, there’s something for everyone. It’s my favorite summer spot.
–KYLER HANIGAN
What is your favorite place in Aberdeen, South Dakota? My favorite place in Aberdeen is the fairgrounds during August. The moment you get there, you feel at home with all the people, food, and the best rides. I have had amazing memories there, and that is why I recommend you stop by.
–ALISON LOPEZ LORENZO
Have you ever been to the amazing aquatic center? If you haven’t, I would recommend going. The aquatic center is a fun place to hang out with friends, and it has a concession stand in case you get hungry. In general, it’s a good and incredible place to visit in Aberdeen.
–BAILEE BROKEN LEG
Do you think Aberdeen is boring? Me too, but there’s one place that is never boring, which is full of laughter, and has two best friends – my best friend’s home. I wrote about her house because I always feel welcome there. Some of my favorite memories are there as well. Do you have a best friend?
–ABIGAIL BERTSC
Music plays, coffee brews, and people laugh while shopping for antiques. That’s the Red Rooster on Main Street. My older brother used to play in a band there, and I loved watching them perform. It always felt exciting and welcoming. That’s why it’s one of my favorite places in Aberdeen.
–AUTUMN GRONEBERG
Cars pass by as birds chirp and the sun shines down. That’s Main Street. It’s full of history, energy, and life. My friends, my sister, and I love exploring the shops and trying different foods. Main Street is what makes Aberdeen feel special to me.
–PAYTON DINGER
Snow falls as you walk toward the building. You see Holgate Middle School. Inside, lockers slam and people greet you. It feels welcoming and safe. I like this school because I can learn, make friends, and feel comfortable. It’s a place where I truly belong.
–VALERIA TORRES
Block 3 Back Row: Aubrey Martin, Valeria Trompiz Torres, Brett Williamson, Oliver Martin Sobb, McKenna Hammrich, Brielle Neifer, Kyla Kinzler, Lilly Mueller, Cassidy Downwind, Michael Roeker. Middle Row: Angelica Reed, Cassie Syverson, Oliver Heinsohn, Calvin Wilson, Heath Heagley, Kyler Hanigan, Tillie Schiel, Madelyn Heinrich, Raelyn Bartz. Front Row: Alison Jewett, Maren Biegler, Payton Dinger, Kaliea Ellison, Aries Ellison, Elias Fischer, Paisley Stewart, Paetyn Carrico, Phillip Fadness. Not Pictured: Hadley Dinger.
The sound of volleyballs hitting the floor and teammates cheering fills the gym. That’s why I chose Simmons Middle School. My coaches, TD and Ms. Mork, helped us improve and play our best. They pushed us to win and work hard. Playing there was an awesome experience I won’t forget.
–EH CRIS MU
“My first love broke my heart for the first time…” blasts through the speakers as everyone sings along. That’s SkateAway. I love skating around with my friends and laughing the whole time. We go almost every week. It’s a fun way to hang out, listen to music, and make great memories together.
–MALLORY CASPER
You walk in and instantly feel calm. Books surround you, along with plushies, stickers, and candy. That’s Novel Ideas. I love going there because it’s cozy and relaxing. It’s the perfect place to read and spend time. I have so many great memories there.
–KALIEA ELLISON
The smell of fresh food and the sound of sizzling grills welcome you inside Tokyo. I usually go there for special occasions like birthdays. It always feels exciting and different. I don’t go often because I don’t want it to lose its special feeling, even though it probably never would.
–FENIX BENDEL
Have you ever been uptown in Aberdeen? If you haven’t, you’re missing out on fun. The mall has lots of stores and fun things to do. You can walk around with a friend. Stores at the mall are Dunhams, Kohl’s, and the movie theater. Don’t wait, and go.
–HSA HTOO
Do you ever feel like having a lake-tastic time? The lake is the place to go. The boat casts off, the wind whips through your hair, and all worries melt away. You lake it? I suggest you go get lost in the lake, and focus on the good in life.
–LEAH HENDRICKSON
My favorite place in Aberdeen is Twist Cone! When you pull into the driveway, you smell that fresh ice cream and that delicious popcorn. In my opinion, vanilla ice cream with sprinkles on it is the best! Cone or cup? These are SOME reasons I love delicious Twist Cone!
– TILLIE GEHRKE
What do you call a fake noodle? An impasta! My favorite place in Aberdeen is Pounders! This is because they have a big menu with foods like burgers and pasta. They also include free refills! They have this really cool outdoor patio! You also can make your own pasta! Come eat!
–ALLISON JONES
As I pull up to the lake, a wave of excitement hits me. All my worries disappear. At Richmond Lake, I spend time tubing, laughing, and making memories with friends. It’s my favorite place to relax and have fun. I can’t imagine life without it.
–MAREN BIEGLER
The smell of food fills the air as music plays and people laugh. That’s SkateAway. Everyone there is having a good time, skating and hanging out. It’s a place full of energy and happiness. That’s why I think it’s one of the best places in Aberdeen.
–ELIAS FISCHER
Back row: Naw Gay, Zoie Young, Lyric Harrelson, Malayia Hager, Danielle Tewksbury, Ava Nannega. Third row: Abel Akin, Aiden Tipton, Luca Whittlinger, Adalyn Schwan. Second row: Hudson Maack, Pablo Duran, Carter Reinbold, Taryn Dorsett, Kadence Bruns, Abigayle Barton, Leah Hendrickson. Front Row: Finneas Du Toit, Nathanael Bitner, Hsa Htoo, Allison Jones.
Cars drive by. It’s loud and there it is – Main Street. It’s fun. There’s a bunch of stuff to check out and you can’t get bored. There’s Dominos, the museum, and a bunch more. Dominos is very tasty and they have great deals, and the museum is free. So that’s why you need to go.
–SILAS BANLEY
Have you ever been to downtown Aberdeen? I highly advise it. There are a ton of stores to visit. My favorite is Shoe Science. If you are hungry, DON’T WORRY, there are countless places to eat. If you like to party, eat, shop, or have fun, then downtown is for you.
–CARTER REINBOLD
The crowd roars as the Wolves score again! Going to NSU games is always exciting. I love watching touchdowns, crazy catches, and amazing dunks. Being there with my family and friends makes it even better. Northern State brings energy to the whole community, and that’s why I love it.
–MAX WILLEN
Don’t wait! Get into the ACT with Aberdeen Community Theater! It’s my favorite because the stage makes me feel at home. There’s many ways to get involved as a child or adult whether you are acting, volunteering, or watching the shows. I hope you feel as at home there as I do!
–EDEN BARKMEIER
It’s a hot summer day, and I’m waiting quietly by the water. Suddenly, I feel a tug on my line. I set the hook and start reeling. Fishing at Mina Lake is so relaxing and exciting at the same time. It’s my favorite thing to do in the summer.
–EMMA BISHOP
Have you ever watched the sunset? If you haven’t, definitely come to my neighborhood to watch the beautiful sky. Everyday in the summer, the sun sets, creating a golden hour across the houses. The pictures don’t compare to real life. This is why my neighborhood is my favorite place.
–BROOKLYN HEILMAN
Splash! Water flies everywhere as kids laugh and race to the slides. The water park is one of my favorite places to go. My friends and I spend hours there riding slides and floating in the lazy river. It’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot day.
–GRAYSON BRUDVIG
It’s Saturday night, and arcade games beep while skates roll across the floor. You’re at SkateAway. I’ve made so many great memories there with my friends. It’s the perfect place to hang out, eat snacks, and have fun. SkateAway is a place I always look forward to going.
–CALVIN WILSON
Back row: Axton LaFave, Charlie Evelo, Josmuel Colon, Charlie Malsam, Connor Van Wagner, Asher Judd, Jamison Ward, Kole Syhre, Ashlyn Rathert, Ayden Moffenbier, Quinn Wolf, Olivia Hatzenbuhler, Addison Malsbury, Audrey Forrest. Middle Row: James Efraimson, Brantley Goehring, Issac Randolph, Madalyn Holcomb. Front Row: Kinsley Anderson, Emerson Stiehl, Morgan Pelzl, Jedrick Medina, Camden Cahoy, Allison Lopez Lorenzo, Rylie Little. Front and center: Braelyn Wanttie.
The smell of spices fills the air as you walk into a restaurant full of color. That’s the Thai and Burmese Deli. The food is full of flavor, mixing sweet and spicy in every bite. It’s a unique place that brings something different to Aberdeen, and I love it.
–TEZANNA LAY
Carts roll by as music plays and people talk. The automatic doors open, and you step into Target. I love looking at all the cool things, especially the Pillowfort weighted stuffed animals. They make my bed so comfortable. Target is one of my favorite places to shop.
–MADELYN HEINRICH
You walk into practice full of excitement as your teammates run up to greet you. That’s Matchbox. The coaches are supportive, and everyone works hard together. It feels like a second home. I love being there because I feel welcome, comfortable, and surrounded by people who care.
–MORGAN JUNG
Hello. My name is Tucker Reinert, and my favorite place in Aberdeen is definitely Manor Park. Have you ever woken up to a nice day in the summer and wanted to go for a walk or play with friends? Well if you have, then Manor Park is the place.
–TUCKER REINERT
Engines roar as dirt flies through the air. That’s the Brown County Speedway. Families cheer while drivers race to win. Kids even get to give trophies and take pictures with winners. It’s exciting and loud, and it brings people together. It’s one of the reasons Aberdeen is so unique.
–RAELYN HADRICK
It’s a warm August day filled with laughter, food, and fun. If you guessed the fair, you’re right! The Brown County Fair is one of my favorite places. I love playing games, riding rides, and spending time with friends and family. It’s always a great time.
–BROOKLYN BECK
Warm air and the smell of amazing food welcome you inside Cuzco. My favorite meal is the Lomo Saltado, full of flavor and delicious spices. I also love their breakfast options. Every time I go, the food is incredible. It’s one of my favorite places to eat.
–EMMIT HAMMOND
The sun shines as you smell flowers and walk through beautiful scenery. That’s the Kuhnert Arboretum. I love walking there with my family and making memories together. It’s peaceful, quiet, and full of nature. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy time with the people you love.
–NOAH GRODE
Walking into Anthony Jewelers is like walking into home. My grandpa is the owner, and he is a very outgoing and courageous person. Walking in there will brighten anyone’s day because of how bright and cheery he is. Next time you walk down Main Street, I recommend stopping in.
–ADALYN SCHWAN
The loud whistle blows as smoke rises into the air. The train depot comes alive during the open house each year. I love exploring and even getting to drive the trains. Bringing my own trains makes it even more fun. It’s one of my favorite places to visit.
–JOSEPH DUTENHOFFER
Laughter fills the air as rides spin and a train whistle blows in the distance. You’re at Storybook Land. There are endless things to do, from rides to parks to Thunder Road. Every visit is full of fun and adventure. It’s truly a one- of-a-kind place in Aberdeen.
–PAISLEY QUIRAM
My favorite place in Aberdeen is the Holgate Tennis Courts because it helps me level up my skills. You can always find somebody to play with because there is always somebody there. If you are always bored, come to the Holgate Tennis Courts to level up your tennis skills or pickleball skills today.
–GAVIN JOHNSTON
Have you ever been hot? Well, not anymore. When you go to the water park, it’s like an aqualand with people tanning, swimming, and splashing. Over 43,000 people have visited, which shows the dedication to how good it is. Make a splash and cool down with a dip.
–SYRUS KUNTZ
I can’t espresso how happy I am to visit Starbucks whenever I can. Starbucks has the best espresso ever, but that’s not the only thing. My favorite drink is the Vanilla Bean Creme Frappuccino with extra whipped cream. If you are into coffee you should give it a shot.
–AMELIA RADTKE
Back Row: Shaynna Bowen, Brooklyn Heilman, William Goetsch, Audrey Kroell, Chestyn Krausz, Rhett Wulff, Gavin Johnston, Chael Falken, David Docter, Benjamin Berheim, John Schumacher, Jayce Jorgensen. Middle Row: Tillie Gehrke, Abigail Bertsch, Jesie Fogarty, Teagan Zimmerman, Aubree DeVine, Avery Gauer, Odin Bjerknes, Tucker Reinert. Front: Amelia Radtke, Veda Scott, Eden Barkmeier, Lilly Gosvener, Anthony Muniz, Syrus Kuntz, Silas Banley.
Bethlehem is my favorite place over Twist Cone, the Odde, and all of my friends’ houses. Bethlehem is the best place to go to church and have fun. I have so much fun every Wednesday and Sunday when I go. That is why Bethlehem is the very best place.
–JAYCE JORGENSEN
Hear cars. Smell pizza. You can get a large for $11.99. Welcome to Dominos. Dominos starts me and my friends off right before we hang out. Dominos is the way to go.
–WILLIAM GOETSCH
Why bring an umbrella to an ice cream shop? In case it sprinkles! Twist Cone has the best sprinkles and ice cream. That is why it’s the best place in Aberdeen. Twist Cone has the best flavors of ice cream and shakes. My favorite is the grasshopper malt with candy crunch.
–VEDA SCOTT
Why are roller skaters so good at their jobs? They just know how to roll with it. I’m writing about Aberdeen’s SkateAway. I love how whenever I open the doors, I immediately hear everyone having a good time. I highly recommend coming here if you enjoy skating and having fun.
–AUDREY KROELL
A cold breeze hits you as you walk in, ready to play. You swipe your card and head to the games. That’s Allevity. I love spending time there with my friends, playing games and laser tag. It’s the perfect mix of fun, food, and excitement.
–BRIELLE NEIFER
Hot, cheesy, and full of flavor; that’s why I love Taco Bell. Every time I go, the food is fresh and delicious. It’s even better when I’m there with my friends. I’ve never had anything quite like it. If you try it, I think you’ll love it too.
–CHRIS DEL-CID
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