IT’S BEEN MY PASSION to promote small business owners in all directions! I’ve enjoyed it as a biz then a hobby since 2015! Im excited to see the future! Joan
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I now have a new couple taking it over and new ideas! As FAST as Americans and visitors zoom by on our state and county highways, we miss out on some of Midwest’s choicest businesses, whether they are eateries, coffee shops, clothing, ammunition, fishing, homemade, quilt, specialty shops and more. Often times, tourists are missing the local flavor of the communities they are passing. With my fierc
e loyalty to help entrepreneurs, I realized that many private businesses, small or large, struggle to stay afloat. Entrepreneurs are risk-takers and dreamers. I wanted to find a way to alert travelers to these "diamonds in the rough" in South Dakota and beyond. Businesses are on or off the beaten path and give color to their local communities and help drive the economy of their communities. My dream then developed into wanting to pull travelers off the highway to shop at these wonderful local businesses. CHECK OUT my website, YouTube, Instagram but most of all Facebook! Share your business with me and if you'd like to be featured!
07/24/2024
After years of advocating for local adventures & businesses, it's time to hand over the reins of Travel Backroads. Please welcome Nick Fosheim, the new owner, who will continue the mission of supporting off-the-beaten-path businesses, entrepreneurs, and destinations.
I've known Nick for several years from our work in economic development, and I'm excited to see where he takes Travel Backroads. It's been an incredible journey, and I'm grateful to all our loyal followers and supporters. Thank you for helping me build Travel Backroads into what it is today.
Please continue to support Nick and visit here and Instagram for updates during the transition. My passion for local experiences will never fade, and I'll always be a part of the Travel Backroads community.
“Driving the Passion to Go Local.”
Joan Sacrison
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Welcome from Nick Fosheim:
Over the years, Joan has built an incredible community of small business supporters through Travel Backroads. I look forward to exploring with you and building on the network that Joan has poured her heart into! We'll get to know each other more over the coming months - but in the meantime, I'll be sharing some *new* spots to hit this summer, highlighting some community celebrations and landmarks, and exploring a few spots that are 'kid friendly' (which is important to me as a dad of 4 busy boys)!
07/20/2024
What a great idea!
Anyone been?
Anyone going?
I’d love to go one day!
Support a new entrepreneur!
Two Little Bees Family Farm
Hello! We’re Kyle and Brittany Lessman, the proud owners of Two Little Bees Family Farm in Garretson, SD! Our farm is a labor of love, named after our two little ones, and has grown from a former dairy farm into a blooming haven for flowers and pumpkins.
Join us for our first you-pick flower events on: 📅 Friday, July 19 from 6-8 PM
📅 Sunday, July 21 from 6-8 PM
Our fields are bursting with beautiful blooms, ready for you to create your own stunning bouquets. Tickets are limited, so grab yours now at twolittlebeespumpkinsandproduce.com.
We can’t wait to share the beauty of our farm with you!
07/15/2024
It’s a mystery, I know. But trust me I will be introducing you soon to the new owner of Travel Backroads. 😁
In the mean time, everyone probably knows this particular destination but I would love to introduce those that are not aware to Chapel in the Hills in Rapid City.
I have never shared before, but having been raised in Rapid City, it holds a special place in my heart. This is a brief introduction however. Many dedicated volunteers and staff keep this replica of the Borglund Stav Kirke in Norway alive.
At one time when I was younger, it sat in a beautiful vast field of green. They maintain a park like appearance, however residential housing began to close in. Surprisingly the solitude, serenity, and uniqueness quite surrounds this beautiful creation. These pictures were taken by me.
One must see to appreciate; and, should you choose to venture to the Black Hills in SD, it is a must see! Please do. God bless!
07/12/2024
We’re getting closer!!! I will be passing the baton soon and announcing the BIG Change! Hang in there, these things take more time than you think!
07/05/2024
Sweet Grass in Wessington Springs was one of our first customers. Heather continues to provide a terrific atmosphere along with terrific food. If you’re nearby or headed there, be sure to stop! Also check out what’s happening with them below, go to their FB page and give ‘em a like, and participate if YOU’VE BEEN.
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“America's Best Restaurants” will be here in TWO weeks! But, before they arrive, we need your help deciding which 3 items we should feature on the show. Comment your go-to items on our menu.
To celebrate, we are giving out TWO $25 gift cards to our restaurant! Comment your go-to item on our menu for a chance to be selected.
To qualify:
👉 Post your comment below before 7/16/24.
👉 We will randomly select one recipient during our visit with America’s Best Restaurants.
👉 The second recipient will be chosen and then announced on our page after the episode premieres, so be on the lookout.
07/04/2024
From Travel Backroads to you! Have a terrific and safe day with all your celebrations!!!
07/04/2024
It’s been awhile since I’ve mentioned Polly Shoe Store but they are alive and well on the Main Street in Miller SD!
Did you know they’re even OPEN today on the 4th! Here’s a few pics from their sandal sale til the end of the week! 20% off!! Woohoo!!
06/25/2024
There’s been some great activity and followers here recently! And NEW likes to the page. Thank you for your continued support!
Be watching soon for some big changes here as I hand the reigns over that will make this biz be what it should be! There are some great new ideas too that will make it succeed big time! Regardless, be sure to continue to support your local communities and small businesses. They need you more now than ever.
06/02/2024
I’ve shared before about Goodwin, SD. Goodwin Lodge open about 4-5 years ago and the proprietor Dana Morris, would be in the LA area during the winter playing piano at Knottsberry Farm among other things. He grew up in Deuel County and wanted to split his year up living in both locations. He’s worked so hard at making the lodge a destination off Hwy 212, east of Watertown. Keep an eye out for their events! Goodwin Lodge & Music Hall
05/21/2024
Located northeast of Gary SD and South of Marietta, MN in County Hwy # 7 and 150th Ave. Their plants are so health, Joyce so friendly and knowledgeable; it’s so worth the drive! Forget Me Not Greenhouse
05/08/2024
I’m so sorry to share and I should’ve done this before now, but Antiques On 18th is closing it’s door! This is the last week to shop there. If you live in the area or in Sioux Falls, stop in. If you love collectibles stop in!
04/28/2024
Everyone has got to have memories in your childhood of roller skating at a hometown venue. Many couples met while skating. Years ago (too numerous to mention 😄) I remember skating in at least 4 different places through my growing up years. Do you remember skating and the fun you had? What are some things you remember? It doesn’t have to be a past memory!
At Sioux Historic Pavilion in Ortonville, MN you can still give your children an experience and enjoy a blast from your past! Roller skating is alive and well! It’s fun to see all ages, including 4-H clubs, school & church groups enjoying and making some sweet memories.
Not only skating, it’s a venue for weddings and can accommodate around 500 people on the Big Stone Lake. Make it your next destination, off Highway 12 located along the MN/SD border!
04/15/2024
Were you one that use to follow Auctions? That seems an era gone now but now there are Estate Sales if you still collect or love to go to. Golden Leaf Estate Sales is one to follow! One of the owners of this also has Antiques on 18th and knows her stuff. So check this out in the weekends ahead if you’re interested! When you look at the list of items for sale you’ll be amazed!
04/14/2024
Check this out! What a cool idea and I know a lot of friends and people that drink coffee! Of course I’m a little swayed by the 3 Bean Coffee Company, because they’ve been big supporters of Travel Backroads over the years. But good luck all and if you all get a chance, support them and play the game. Pass the word!
☕ Coffee Shop Bracket Challenge ☕
Here is the official 2024 Glacial Lakes & Prairies Bracket Challenge: Coffee Shop Edition! The challenge will begin on Monday, April 15!
Voting will begin daily at 10am and close at 10am the next day. The locations with the most votes in each match will be announced on Fridays following the completion of the round.
Likes or reactions to photos are the only votes counted. Comments, shares, messages, etc. will not be counted towards votes.
Communities and their coffeeshops include:
The Market on the Plaza in Aberdeen Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, cups. in Britton Area Chamber of Commerce, Kool Beans Coffee and Roasterie in Visit Brookings, August 17th Gourmet Coffee in City of Clear Lake, South Dakota, De Smet Mercantile & Coffeehouse in De Smet, South Dakota, Buttercup Coffee Faulkton in City of Faulkton, Beauty Brew Boutique in Groton Chamber, GiGi’s in Huron Chamber & Visitors Bureau, Drip Coffee in City of Lake Norden, The Bank 301 Main in Milbank Area Chamber of Commerce, Simply Charming in Redfield Chamber of Commerce, 3 Bean Coffee Company in Sisseton Area Chamber of Commerce, Hello Larsons Coffee Roastery in City of Volga, Gather in Visit Watertown , Brewhouse Boutique in Webster Area Chamber Of Commerce, and Sweet Grass in Wessington Springs Area Chamber & Development
04/11/2024
Did you know Fabulous Finds is 10 year’s old! Located downtown Chamberlain SD, it’s a quick shot off I-90 to a couple blocks north of McDonalds. They’re celebrating!
If you live near there or driving by, plan on stopping. They rejuvenate, recreate, & redecorate so you’ll find something new every time!
04/07/2024
A Cow on my Calendar
A February calendar picture of a big black calf stared back at me from the wall. I started to chuckle because anyone who knew me in high school or thereafter would know that is the last thing you would have ever seen on my wall or anything else.
I remember in Sunday School getting invited to a friend's small acreage farm in Rapid Valley in the Black Hills; I experienced a comforting emotion I had never felt before (I still can't put a name to it today). Or the time my father won a baby chick in a giveaway at a party and I received one for Easter, only to have to take it to a farm out in the county eventually (that was a bummer! and now my daughter raises them!)
A Life Lived Rurally
When I met my husband, his "calling" was clear to him, just not me. We would be living life rurally; as a rural Pastor and his city wife. There would be no changing this guys' mind. In case you did not pick up on it, my husband was a rural pastor, now retired.
Agriculture takes on a whole new meaning when you live it. Looking back, I basically think I was a snob towards country kids as an adolescent and growing up in the city. I never really felt I belonged to any particular clique in high school but there were those country kids that all met outside at one end of the block waiting to load the school bus, and then there was "us". We would maybe interact in the classroom, but I do not remember much else. How interesting to look back on it all now.
I have lived rurally now for over 40 years from a community as small as 32! Since then I have seen a cow pulled (with a chain I might add), a few born on the plains of Montana (right out in the open!), and twin lambs born in rural Kingsbury County SD. I have even had my name show up in the local paper's news column as having gone to a women's house where I quilted all afternoon. I had no idea that was news. 🤔
Now as I've gotten older, I look and see things differently. I've talked to farmers who are serious "stewards of the land" and it's not just a "cause" or lip service. I watch how the weather can make or break crops and the growing season. I've heard how difficult it is for the young adult to have the option of start farming on his own anymore. Now it’s nearly impossible. I've learned and have seen much; too much to list here.
The landscape of rural has changed over the years and continues to change.
There is so Much to Love About Local
Whether you live rural or city we do need to fight for "local" in all it's forms. My life, my previous employment, has taught me so much and I have so much more to learn. I love “city”, but so grateful I’ve experienced and love Rural. Wherever you are, support those small business owners.
04/06/2024
If you haven’t been to one of these, GO! If you support and work for your community, GO! Are you worried about what you can do to help your town & businesses, GO! Energize! Conference 2024
Tell others and pass the word, it will fire you up!! And you’ll learn something besides! 🤣😂
The Crabby Lady hasn’t been quiet this Winter one bit but this Spring shes’a bloom’n wildly in women’s fashions! She also has new bags and purses and Tagua Jewelry! Clink on the link and take a look! Plan a trip now! ( Webster SD)
03/02/2024
Congratulation Re'Dezign Antiques, Beresford!! You were a part of us when we were just beginning! I’m happy for you and for hanging in there through thick and thin! Blessings! Love this store!!
Today is the day!🥳 Come help me celebrate!🎉
02/06/2024
Sarah Calhoun started Red Ant Red Ants Pants and I met her once while she was featured at a conference. Talk about an amazing person. She’s go on to create a music festival and a foundation. What I write here is a poor example of everything she’s done as an entrepreneur and as a woman! Check out her page and her pants!
"People who say it cannot be done should not interrupt those who are doing it." — George Bernard Shaw
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01/24/2024
Bookkeeping Beez & Services is a growing business and they’re ready to help you! Located in northeastern SD they service a large area in and near the Minnesota/South Dakota border.
They’d love nothing more than to visit with you and discover how they can team up with you to meet your needs. Pictured here is their business card and all their info. Also pictured is Kristie, one half of the Deb and Kristie team, and a general map of area but expands beyond. Call them or email them today to talk about your business needs. Tell them you saw it here!! 😀
Did you know we also post our videos on YouTube? We do! You haven’t seen The Quilt Connection 2 in sometime; some of you not at all, so here’s a reminder! Pennee is still going strong; stop in if get to that area! Quilt Connection 2
01/10/2024
Hi all!! Happy New Year!! This is an amazing testament to shopping local! I think its terrific!! Know of any similar great happenings?? The Wild Bluebell
So, I don’t normally post stuff like this.. as I feel it’s kinda personal. However; I think it’s good for the Belle Fourche community to be able to SEE the changes. Last month I saw SO many people shopping locally for the holidays. And I wanted to show you.. This is what the aftermath looks like. Because you shopped local.. I was able to 1) buy new and improved clothes racks. 2) be able to upgrade hangers. 3) bring in not one, two or five new lines of clothing.. but EIGHT! 4) I was able to set aside 2x the money into my local donations fund.
I normally only have three racks full of clothes. Today I have 5(and then some)! I was able to bring in more selections! AND I’m still waiting on 7 shipments. It just shows that keeping your money local, can make a huge difference. 🫶🏼
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Videos
Forget-Me-Not Greenhouse
Located northeast of Gary SD and South of Marietta, MN in County Hwy # 7 and 150th Ave. Their plants are so health, Joyce so friendly and knowledgeable; it’s so worth the drive! @topfans Forget Me Not Greenhouse
Ardy’s Bakery and Sandwich Shop on Highway 15 in Clear Lake has delicious homemade donuts, popovers rolls and more. They now also service soup and sandwiches for you noon break.
Take a friend and visit Webster, SD and The Crabby Lady!
Webster, SD! 1209 Main— you can’t miss it!
The Crabby Lady — Yes I promote her because her store is terrific and especially she has plus size gals’ backs! A favorite of mine! Martha is great and her employee Roxie is too! Check out her NEW LOCATION! Let her know you saw it here on TB!
I’d be amiss if I didn’t mention, on our travels to the northwest, to stop at one of 7 locations of LegendaryDoughnuts while in Tacoma, Wa! My pictures don’t do them justice but their page and website perfectly show what I’m talking about! The bad thing is our daughter lives too close! Lol 😁 So we took advantage since we’re such connoisseurs and donut freaks! Check them out if you get to that area! ❤️😍
Hi Friends! 🌟 You can support me by sending Stars -I no longer charge for my services to individual businesses. It’s what I do as a hobby and I love it. Stars could possibly be a little “perk” for my efforts as they can help me earn cash to keep making content for small & local. Facebook is behind this. So I’d DEFINITELY appreciate your support! 🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟⭐️
Whenever you see the Stars icon on my videos, you can send me Stars! Thank you!
#StarsEverywhere
What sits in a small community and gets travelers from all over? Did I mention it’s a cafe with homemade cooking? Well, I am now! It’s the Watering Can Cafe in Revillo, SD. Delicious homemade cooking and great atmosphere- you’ll want to check it out for a delicious meal of your own! Revillo, South Dakota
Check out this new video The Quilt Connection 2 in Buffalo SD. It's a fantastic quilt shop and you'll want to stop and see it. Also, I'd love your comments and welcome them. If you travel that way be sure to stop in and tell Pennee you saw it here!
Small Rural Communities Can Provide for Their Community
What does your small rural community do for it’s citizens and youth? Economic Development in those communities might be ignored, or supported. But it only helps to get others to move in and build population. Milbank, SD tucked up in the Northeast corner of SD has focused on need.
Pictured here is their ice skating rink and hockey rink. For a town of 4,000 they also have a community center. What is your community providing for the youth and adults outside of school activities? We’d love to know: bowling, skating, winter sports?
Farley Fest 2021
Foothills Classic
The American Dream ~ The Family Farm & Economic Development
KDLO's Radio Interview with Travel Backroads--June 2019
As fast as Americans and visitors zoom by on our state and county highways, we miss out on some of Midwest’s choicest businesses, whether they are eateries, coffee shops, clothing, ammunition, fishing, homemade, quilt, specialty shops and more. Often times, tourists are missing the local flavor of the communities they are passing.
I was born and raised in Rapid City SD, went to college at Augustana in Sioux Falls and my husband attended seminary in Dubuque IA. I’ve lived rural most of my adult life: Bancroft, SD, Broadus, Mt, Philip, SD, Buffalo, SD, Belle Fourche, SD, and Clear Lake, SD . I have celebrated the best of both worlds and love City and Rural.We are the grandparents to 3 grandchildren; and we love our time with them. I work in economic development and have done a little-bit-of-everything when it comes to employment. Promoting the Black Hills was part of my upbringing especially when you grow up in the area, then add in summer jobs of clerking at campgrounds and tour sales of Grayline Bus Tours. Most of my life has been spent promoting and I do it now for small business. It’s a love and passion of mine that came so naturally; it was just answering my heart’s calling. This is my passion, fiercely so; I’d loved to promote your business.
With my fierce loyalty to help entrepreneurs, I realized that many private businesses, small or large, struggle to stay afloat while trying to help their communities. Entrepreneurs are risk takers and dreamers. I wanted to find a way to alert travelers to these "diamonds in the rough" in on country roads or down a city street regardless of what part of the country they are. Businesses are on or off the beaten path and give color to their local communities. They add to the infrastructure and help drive the economy of their communities. My dream soon developed into wanting to pull travelers off the highway to shop at these amazing small and local businesses. In the 21st century, *“collaboration” and *“co-opetition” help businesses work together to pull travelers into their establishments and communities as destination travel. It’s great for chambers, community clubs and clusters of communities.
I began the Travel Backroads website when I discovered so many unique businesses in our moving. I am inviting you to join TB with one-time membership to get into the directory with extra perks for social media later on. I will market you on the website and social media platforms for Travel Backroads. Take a chance ...you’ll be glad you did.
My Rack Card or could be known as my business card. It’s my mission and it states it.
Take a look too at the online domains (Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Google, Siri, Yelp). You will not find anything of this much value and as affordable than being a part of Travel Backroads. There is no question about my dedication and I would love to visit with you about it.
