My 605: Courtney Collen

What’s home unless you make it your own? My 605 takes you inside the lives, loves and little secrets of those who call South Dakota – area code 605 – home.

This week’s edition features Courtney Collen, former Dakota News Now anchor turned Sanford Health News anchor and owner of pigeon Penelope.

My home in the 605 is: The Sioux Falls east side! We love our neighborhood.

The biggest reason I live in the 605 is: Sioux Falls is where I started my broadcast journalism career more than 10 years ago. I was hired by a local TV station – formerly KSFY Television – as a multimedia journalist and advanced to weekend anchoring, producing and ultimately anchoring the weeknight news.

Moving here within a month of graduating from the University of Arizona – in January – I wasn’t sure how long I’d stay. I’ve never lived in a city smaller than Phoenix/Scottsdale, St. Louis or Tucson – and I didn’t know anyone. After seeing the community evolve right in front of my eyes and getting to know the wonderful people in it, I knew it wasn’t time to leave. Sioux Falls is a booming city with the heart of a small town. Currently, my husband, Jeff – a graduate of WHS and SDSU – and I are living happily ever after with our two girl-pups: Kellar and Penny.

I am absolutely loving the opportunity to continue my journalism career as a host and anchor for Sanford Health News on Sanford’s marketing team.

After home, I spend the most time here: If not the office or an interview shoot location, I’m catching a hot yoga, barre or cycle class. Otherwise, probably enjoying a drink and live music on a patio if weather permits.

When I need to get away, you’ll find me: In Scottsdale soaking up the sunshine while I visit my family. For a little more elevation and fresh mountain air, I’ll be on the northeast shore of Lake Tahoe – Incline Village, Nevada – where I spent my summers growing up. It will forever be my favorite place in the world. #KeepTahoeBlue

The best meal I ever ate in the 605 was at: This is a tough one. I love food. You can find us enjoying dinner downtown at least once a week. If not downtown, I’m ordering the Chia Chicken at The Attic or a burger with taters at TapHouse 41.

My go-to coffee shop is: Wherever they have good iced green tea! I’m not a coffee gal, but I enjoy the atmosphere and good conversation at just about any spot in town.

My favorite place to grab an adult beverage in the 605 is: Anywhere. A few of our favorites include Remedy Brewing Co., The Treasury, Carpenter Bar or Crawford’s – highly recommend you order The Epiphany and don’t forget to eat the “buzz button!”

When I need to experience the great outdoors, you’ll find me: At any of the state parks around town or on the bike trails. The trails are a Sioux Falls gem and among my favorite spots to be outdoors for a run, biking the loop, training for a race or a triathlon!

The spot I’d recommend for a date is: After a quick drink at Carpenter Bar, head to dinner at Parker’s – ask for a table by the front window – followed by a nightcap at The Treasury or B&G Milkyway.

The best pizza in the 605 is: Pizza Cheeks inside The Hello Hi – our new fave! I can’t get enough of that New York-style pizza.

When my friends and I get together, you’ll probably find us: If I’m being honest, most likely cocktails or brunch on a patio. Sometimes a hot yoga or cycle class if we’re feeling motivated.

When I want to meet new people in the 605 I go: To any of the Sioux Falls boutique studios for a good workout and feeling of community. I love how the fitness community has evolved since I moved here. Otherwise, I will strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. In general, I prefer face-to-face engagement over smartphone/social media technology any day of the week. I love any and every opportunity to make a new friend!

My best memory in the 605 is: My wedding! I was fortunate to have my entire immediate and extended family from the West Coast fly out to enjoy our special day in September 2017. Our wedding, social hour and reception were all held at the Icon Event Hall + Lounge.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fly with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels in an F/A-18 Hornet during their visit for the 2016 Air Show.

The one thing I’m least crazy about in the 605 is: Subzero temperatures coupled with wind, duh!

And finally, life in pictures. Here are the top three photos that most sum up My 605: