My 605: Sydney Bartunek Bender

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 My 605 is Sydney Bartunek Bender, founder and president of Move to Heal South Dakota and owner of pigeon Sunny.

My home in the 605 is: Born and raised in Yankton — I call Sioux Falls my home today. We enjoy our days in the neighborhood just west of the new Jefferson High School. It’s the best of both worlds with our large backyard for the boys and dog to play in while also being only 10 minutes from date night in downtown Sioux Falls.

The biggest reason I live in the 605 is: Family is the first reason we live in the 605. It is fun to have our boys grow up with their grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. A close second is the supportive startup community and arts community that has allowed me to grow my dream nonprofit over the last two years: Move To Heal South Dakota.

After home, I spend the most time here: In a local dance or yoga studio. Whether I’m rehearsing for an upcoming show or moving my body to quiet the mind, these spaces serve as my creative outlet!

When I need to get away, you’ll find me at: Good Earth State Park is a beautiful breath of fresh air that feels like a small getaway. I’m also fond of the Gavins Point beach west of Yankton and the hiking trails out there. Another reason Gavins Point is special? My husband proposed at one of the overlooks on these trails!

The best meal I ever ate in the 605 was at: If I could indulge in all things pasta at Spezia Sioux Falls, I’d be living my best life!

My go-to coffee shop is: Do I have to pick only one? Josiah’s, Queen City Bakery and La Luna Cafe are all on rotation!

My favorite place to grab an adult beverage in the 605 is: Highball patio, anyone?

When I need to experience the great outdoors, you’ll find me: Palisades State Park is another spot close by that we like to experience.

The spot I’d recommend for a date is: I’d suggest starting the night at Gist Wine Shop for a glass before heading to a live arts entertainment in Sioux Falls! From concerts to dance performances to theater shows, there are always opportunities to enjoy a variety of talented artists on date night. 

The best pizza in the 605 is: Hometown favorite is Charlie’s Pizza in Yankton, South Dakota. Pepperoni, beef and sauerkraut is a family go-to. In Sioux Falls, I’ve been digging the Hot Nasty from Pizza Cheeks! MMhmm!

When my friends and I get together, you’ll probably find us: There’s a possibility we are at Falls Park Farmers Market, a brunch date, First Friday downtown or maybe even on a Sip-N-Cycle.

The place you never can go wrong taking kids is: The Washington Pavilion has fun kids-related events throughout the year and their Kirby Science Center will keep kids excited and busy every time.

When I want to meet new people in the 605 I go: Networking events hosted by Startup Sioux Falls, the Non-Profit Exchange and Think 3D Solutions.

My best memory in the 605 is: I have many, but one of the most recent was being awarded a Sioux Falls Stage Special Distinction award at the Sioux Falls Stage Awards show in July for my work with Move to Heal South Dakota. I’ll say this one was a surprise but one that I will cherish forever.

The one thing I’m least crazy about in the 605 is: I know it happens, but snow in March and April is not something I’m cheering for.

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