For Justine Reiter, life has been about embracing change and building something meaningful with each new chapter. Originally from Anaheim, California, Justine made a bold move more than a decade ago when she packed up her life and drove across the country to Kimball, South Dakota, seeking a fresh start. It was there she met her husband, Joel, during her first week working at a local bar. Ten months later, they eloped, and now, over ten years into their marriage, they’ve built a family, a business, and a life rooted in community.

Justine and Joel have two children: Jade (19), currently serving in the Air Force at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, and June (7), who attends Longfellow Elementary School. Their household also includes two labradors, Ella and Copper, both retired hunting dogs.

The Reiter family recently moved from Kimball to Mitchell, motivated by Joel’s position with the Mitchell Fire Department, where he serves as a Firefighter and EMT. After waiting for Jade to graduate high school, they decided it was time for a new beginning.

Though initially overwhelmed by the transition from a small rural town to a more city-like environment, Justine quickly embraced Mitchell’s vibrant pace and welcoming spirit. “It was really wonderful to have all the conveniences we had forgotten about,” she shared, noting everything from pizza delivery to visiting a grocery store full of unfamiliar faces.

Mitchell proved to be more than just a city; it was a community. “From our neighbors, business owners, the fire department, and the people we meet in passing—we could not have asked for a better experience,” Justine said. “We could not be happier here.”

Community engagement has become a cornerstone of the Reiter family's new life. Joel’s involvement with the fire department has helped them connect, while Justine’s business, Midtown Treasures on Main Street, has become a hub of creativity and connection. The shop features unique home furnishings, vintage and antique décor, and handmade items from local creators. “I love to make the old beautiful again,” she said. “If that furniture lasted 100 years, I want to see it last another 100.”

Being part of Mitchell’s Main Street and Beyond initiative has given Justine the chance to grow her business while getting to know other community members. “We strive to find ways to be part of the community, and we’re always willing to help where we can,” she said.

When she’s not in the shop, Justine is a dedicated plant collector, bookworm, and nature lover. She appreciates the accessibility of the rec center, downtown area, and parks, places she couldn’t easily enjoy in Kimball. Her family has especially loved discovering all the local restaurants, with favorites including El Columpio for tacos, Mya’s for teriyaki, and burgers and beers at The Depot or Bradley’s.

Some of her favorite spots in Mitchell include local coffee shops, The Diamond Store, and of course, her own Midtown Treasures. She also recommends stopping by The Mercantile for some ice cream. A memorable highlight since moving has been Halloween: “It was by far the best and biggest Halloween we’ve had… an awesome way to see the community come together to have fun for the kids.”

Justine encourages newcomers to embrace Mitchell wholeheartedly. “Don’t look back,” she said. “The people are just as nice, our neighbors are wonderful, our daughter’s school is amazing—we couldn’t ask for better.”

When asked to sum up her journey, Justine shared her favorite verse: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105). It’s a reminder that life isn’t about the easiest path but about taking the next right step, with faith, purpose, and community by your side.