Black Hills Parent Spring 2018

BHPARENT SPRING 2018

Local

Life

SPRING CLEANING 5 ways to downsize TEACHERS OF EXCELLENCE Honorees in the Black Hills

gIrls In stem

LET IT GO Seven things to stop worrying about BULLY PATROL A new app to solve a big problem COMPLIMENTARY

SCIeNCe, TECHNOLOGY, eNGINeeRING, aND MaTHeMaTICS: a combInatIon of opportunItIes for chIldren In the Black HIlls

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When you smoke, so does your baby.

South Dakota QuitLine 1 . 866 . SD . QUITS

1. 866 . 737. 8487 www.SDQuitLine.com Black Hills Parent

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College Planning

Give a child the freedom to dream with CollegeAccess 529 No gift is greater than a college education.

Start saving for your children’s future today.

Learn more about the South Dakota CollegeAccess 529 Plan. Visit our website at www.collegeaccess529.com.

Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of CollegeAccess 529 Plan before investing. This and other information is contained in the current Plan Disclosure Statement. Before investing, investors should read the Plan Disclosure Statement carefully, and consider whether their state of residency—or their intended Designated Beneficiary’s state of residency—offers any benefit, such as state tax deduction, financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors or any other benefits that are only available for investments in that state’s 529 savings program.

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Only South Dakota residents and Account Owners who designate a South Dakota resident as Beneficiary can invest directly in the CollegeAccess 529 Plan. Certain Portfolios are not available to those who invest directly. Residents of states other than South Dakota can invest in the CollegeAccess 529 Plan only through a financial advisor. Additional fees apply for investments made through a financial advisor. Please see the Plan Disclosure Statement for details.

State taxes may apply for residents of states other than South Dakota.

CollegeAccess 529 Plan is a section 529 college savings plan sponsored by the State of South Dakota, and managed and distributed by Allianz Global Investors Distributors LLC. Notice: The account is not insured by any state, and neither the principal deposited nor any investment return is guaranteed by any state. Furthermore, the accounts are not insured, nor the principal or investment return guaranteed, by the federal government, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”) or any other federal agency.

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BHPARENT WELCOME

fre sh

is the first word that comes to mind for many when the season spring is mentioned and it makes sense. This time of year is the chance for all things new!

As you turn through the pages of this issue, we hope you gain inspiration for your family this season.

We have talked to some amazing kids who are creating their dreams. You’ll also find a few parenting tips for order, opportunity, and resources to be the best version of you. Last but not least, we have announced our 2018 A+ Teachers: five education professionals who are leading students in the Black Hills to reach the goals in front of them.

New beginnings, new goals, and a time of renewal – happy springtime, parents!

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Black Hills Parent

Everybody 6 months and older needs a FLU SHOT yearly.

The flu shot is the best protection for anyone 6 months and older INCLUDING expectant moms. Flu shots are SAFE and available anytime during pregnancy.

Influenza (the flu) can be a serious illness, especially for pregnant women.

The best way to keep babies under 6 months safe is to make sure everyone around them has had a flu shot.

Learn more about vaccinations at ForBabySakeSD.com

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CONTENTS

46 BUZZ 4 New Beginnings As you turn through these pages, we hope you find inspiration for your family this season.

9 Table Manners Mable, Mable–strong and able–keep your elbows off of the table!

BHPARENT Publisher Rick DenHerder Account Executives Cody Schreiber, Natasha Moberly Managing Director Jenna Carda Digital Director John Eining Creative Director John Edwards Senior Designer Chris Valencia Production Coordinator Meghan Rose Executive Assistant Courtney Buck Distribution Ken Knapp Photographer Jesse Brown Nelson Contributers Lyndsey Akley, Josh Benham, Megan Handshue, Sarah Lyons, Cheryl Maguire, Kerrie Mcloughlin, Kelsey Sinclair Our Puppy Pals Cooper, Marley, & Tucker © Black Hills Parent. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without the expressed consent of the publisher is prohibited.

The information included in this publication is believed to be accurate at the time of publishing. Additional advertiser information and articles are available online at blackhillsparent.com. Black Hills Parent magazine is a free, quarterly publication distributed throughout black hills area communities— from Rapid City to Spearfish, Deadwood to Hill City, Custer to Hot Springs, and every place in between, including: schools, medical and dental waiting areas, childcare facilities, specialty retailers, and other key locations in this area. Get an exclusive look at Black Hills Parent through our e-letter at blackhillsparent.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for updates.

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11 Helpful Hacks As activities start with the warmer weather, here are a few hacks to keep you organized.

12 Bringing a Passion to Life Morgen Messer has created unusual items into accessories for her dolls and is encouraging other children to stand up for what they love.

14 Striving for Perfection 11-year-old Hannah Riley is making leaps and bounds in her dance career.

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16 9 Benefits of Going to Camp From making new friends to learning to give back, there are plenty of positives for sending your child to camp.

22 A Minimal-ish Life Hannah Beshara shares her tricks for downsizing with Black Hills Parent magazine.

SPOTLIGHT: THE EDUCATION ISSUE 28 Teachers of Excellence Denny Menholt Rapid Chevrolet and Black Hills Parent magazine are proud to announce these five outstanding teachers in the Black Hills.

36 Raising a Scientist How to encourage your daughter to explore educational options in science, technology, engineering, and math.

40 Building STEM at Home Three hands-on activities you can do at home with your preschooler.

44 5 Steps to Help Find Lost Library Books You may consider yourself organized, but it never fails that one book will go missing. Here are the steps to embrace your inner detective.

45 Little Free Libraries The story behind the little pop-up library boxes throughout the Black HIlls.

46 Opening Pages of Possibilities Children’s author Codi Mills has always had a love of reading, now she is creating stories to share with others.

COLUMNS 48 Making an Impact Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Black Hills is creating matches that play a big difference in children’s lives.

50 Medical: Urgent Care or Family Doctor?

The guide on where to go for the symptoms you are seeing.

62 Generational Wisdom Kristol McKie and her grandson Maddox share their favorite things about spring.

LOCAL LIFE 52 Black Hills Cuties 54 Calendar

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Follow Us!

Mon-Sat 9am to 8pm Sun 11am to 7pm

Shop our wide selection of local produce and grocery items, body care products, supplements, and local honey to help with spring allergies!

This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA

Think Healthy, Buy Local, Everyone is Welcome to Shop at the Co-op!

100 East Boulevard North Rapid City, SD 605.348.3331 www.breadroot.com

Let’s make this.

Honey Balsamic-Glazed Ham

Savory baked ham with a sweet, tangy glaze made with honey, balsamic vinegar and soy sauce. All over buttery smashed potatoes and sautéed garlic kale. Let’s make it happen – simply and deliciously. Get the recipe at pork.org/cooking ©2018 National Pork Board, Des Moines, IA USA. This message funded by America’s Pork Producers and the Pork Checkoff.

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KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS Black Hills Burger and Bun Co. Custer - (605) 673-3411 • $5 Kids Menu • Coloring Books • Kids’ (age 12 and under) meals are half price on Thursday nights. This deal lasts until mid-Spring, so get there while you can!

Dough Trader Pizza Company

Spearfish - (605) 642-2175 • Sidewalk chalk or scrap paper and crayons are available for all ages.

• Heads up! This restaurant is cash only, but there is an onsite ATM.

Mornin’ Sunshine

Hot Springs - (605) 745-5550 • $4.95 Kids Menu • Coloring pages • Let the kids draw on the big chalk board table while they wait for dinner.

Firehouse Brewing Company Rapid City - (605) 348-1915 • $5.95 Kids Menu • Kids will love the free fire hats!

The Knuckle Saloon

MANNERS

BOOKS ABOUT

Sturgis - (605) 347-0106 • Family Fun Day • Kids (12 and under) eat for free every Tuesday from 5-8 p.m.

THE TABLE MANNER GAME

Encourage good manners with a game!

Each family member (even the adults) will get three popsicle sticks to place near their plate. Before the meal begins, everybody is reminded of the expected table manners, like: “don’t start eating until everyone is sitting down”, “say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’”, “chew with your mouth closed”, and “help clean up afterwards”. When someone is caught breaking a rule, a stick is taken away.

The one with the most sticks at the end of the meal wins! Treat the winner with picking the next meal, extra screen time, or simply getting dessert first.

My Mouth is a Volcano!

Excuse Me!: A Little Book of Manners

by Karen Katz From burping at the table to not sharing with their friends, this simple book shows the importance of having good manners for toddlers.

By Julia Cook Young Louis can’t help but share all of his thoughts, whether appropriate or not. This book shows young kids how to stop themselves from ‘erupting’ and speaking out of turn, and teaches the value of listening.

The Berenstain Bears Forget Their Manners

What If Everybody Did That?

By Ellen Javernick and Colleen M. Madden Sure, interrupting during storytime isn’t a huge deal, but what if everyone did? This book makes kids think about how their actions can affect people around them.

by Stan Berenstain In this classic children’s book, Mama Bear notices the rest of the family has forgotten to use good manners around the home, so she has to remind them!

How Do Dinosaurs Eat Their Food?

by Jane Yolen and Mark Teague Like kids, dinosaurs have a hard time remembering to use good manners.

But with a little help, they will be saying “please” and “thank you” in no time!

Black Hills Parent

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SUMMER CAMP

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Chore List Categorized by age

Got kids? Here are some easy ways to get your little helpers involved in keeping your home clean and organized. Add in a few rewards for a job well-done and you’ve got a recipe for a fun way to teach them habits that will last a lifetime.

2-3 years old

• Throw trash away • Put away toys – tip: have designated boxes • Help put away clothes • Make their bed and organize stuffed animals

4-5 years old

• Take plates to sink • Put away clothes • Set table • Pick up toys – peek under sofa and chairs for things that don’t belong

6-8 years old

• Feed & water pets • Fold & put away laundry • Take out trash • Make the bed • Wash floor – supervised • Clean toilets • Load the dishwasher • Unload dishwasher but need help putting things away

9-12 years old

• Clean the bathroom • Teach them to operate the washer & dryer • Put away groceries • Set the table • Load & unload dishwasher • Take out the trash

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SAVE $100

HELPFUL HACKS BUZZ

Gr eat

CAR S K C A H To Try! T

Portable Aromatherapy

There are so many options to freshen up the atmosphere!

Glue pom poms onto a miniature clothes pin and put a few drops of essential oils on each. Then, attach the clip to your car vent for a cute, DIY air freshener this spring.

Puzzle Organizer

Keep losing puzzle pieces? Put the pieces in a zipped bag within the box. If the boxes don’t fit well on the shelf, switch them out for cheap tupperware containers and place a picture of the puzzle to the top.

Keep It Clean

Cup holders can get gross with dirt, coins, crumbs, and that sticky substance that seemed to appear out of thin air.

Keep your cup holders looking fresh by putting silicone cupcake liners in them. These liners catch everything and can be removed easily and cleaned quickly once they get dirty.

Meals To Go

HOW TO DOWNSIZE

De-cluttering not only clears your home but also your mind.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself as you begin your spring cleaning.

• Is it useful?

• If yes, have you used it in the past three months (if not seasonal)?

• Does it bring back good memories?

• Do you have room for it?

• Does it have value?

Kids are messy, especially when eating in the car. Minimize messes using a cheap shower caddie!

Place the food and drink into the caddie rather than on your kids’ laps or trying to dig through a box.

Bringing a passion to life words Jenna Carda photos Jesse Brown Nelson Morgen Messer was six years old when she started watching YouTube videos of child influencers reviewing new toys. After a while, she began to question if she could make some of the items herself.

Now, at 10 years old, Morgen has created an entire dollhouse haven for her four American Girl dolls Irene, Lexie, Grace, and Harper.

“I started watching these craft YouTube videos, and planned out what I wanted to make,” explained Morgen.

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Black Hills Parent

“Then, I got my hot glue gun and started making stuff!”

The Messer’s house is the place to be when it comes to doll sleepovers and play dates. Morgen’s six-room house covers one wall in her room – a simple house with blocks for rooms to fit her larger dolls, but Morgen has created it into something more.

Each compartment of the dollhouse is filled with unusual items.

AMAZING KIDS BUZZ

Morgen has created decorations and furnishings to place into her dolls’ rooms. From cardboard boxes turned into couches and vanities to materials like foam and felt made into clothes and shoes – Morgen has collected a combination of instructed creations and things she has made up and crafted herself.

Jacey Messer, Morgen’s mom, is inspired not only by her creativity – but her mindset, too.

“We are a lot alike with a thing for crafting and DIY stuff,” said Jacey. “I like that she’s a collector, but it’s not about getting the next doll. She attaches to each doll and they come to life – they aren’t just consumable.”

Morgen is hoping her passion will also inspire other children her age.

“A lot of kids at my school don’t play with dolls,” said Morgen, “and what I’m hoping they will learn is that you don’t have to be afraid of what you like. Just because other people are saying ‘I don’t like dolls’ – you can stand up for what you like and be proud of it!”

One day, Morgen aspires to be like her role model YouTube influencer and go to school for photography.

But for now, she is practicing on her own camera – taking photos of her creations and her continuously growing collection of dolls and accessories.

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After stunning the Black Hills Parent team with her ballet positions, Hannah delicately tied her pointe shoes to prepare for the next set of performances.

See more images at blackhillsparent.com.

words Josh Benham photos Jesse Brown Nelson

For Hannah Riley, the art of dancing represents the perfect way to express herself. “I listen to the music and either let it tell me a story, or I find a story or an emotion I really to want to convey and then find music for that,” Hannah explained.

Hannah’s mother, Tuesday, first took her to dance at a studio, in their hometown of Newcastle, Wyoming, when she was five.

“Of course, like every little girl, we said: ‘We’ll go take ballet, it’ll be cute’,” Tuesday recalled. “After the first year, it just turned into this giant thing where it became: ‘I need more; I need more.’”

Julie McFarland, President and Director of Academy of Dance Arts in Rapid City, has taught Hannah for the last couple of years, and says she has a passion for dancing that is not typically seen in 11 year olds.

“Immediately I could see the potential she had,” Julie said. “She ate up the information I gave her. It’s literally a God-given gift that very few have. I could see that if she had the other components, like the ability to drill in and focus, she could have a professional career in dance.”

That uncommon drive in an 11-year-old is what pushes her during the ballet, point and modern company classes at Julie’s studio, five days a week, plus a weekly two-hour private lesson.

“I love how you have to really work for it,” Hannah said. “You can’t be perfect, but you can try to be better every day.”

Hannah earned an invitation to attend the Bolshoi Ballet’s Summer Training Program in Connecticut for three weeks last summer, and while she was there, the students attended the Bolshoi Ballet in New York City.

“It was an amazing experience,” Hannah said.

In January, Hannah went to the Youth America Grand Prix regional competition in Denver.

Hannah competed in the 9-11 age division in two variations – contemporary and classical, and Julie said her scores ranged from 89 to 93 points. By comparison, a 95 would’ve earned a trip to New York City for the finals.

Whereas most took up to a year to perfect their routines for the competition, Tuesday said Julie and Hannah began prepping the routines in earnest for about two months. Her dance maturity was evident by choreographing the contemporary piece.

Hannah shook her head ‘no’ eagerly when asked if she ever gets sick of dancing, and said ballet is her favorite variation.

“It’s just so technical, and you really have to work hard if you really want to actually do it and have a career in it,” she said.

Hannah’s profound love of dance also makes the commute, night after night, worth it to the Rileys – a sacrifice, not lost, on Hannah. “It’s really cool; I can’t believe she does that,” she beamed of her mother.

Hannah was renewed for a six-week program at Bolshoi this summer, continuing the journey to achieving that prestigious professional label.

“We’ll be able to train with her privately for only so long, and then she will need further professional training from a company school training program where they’re dancing eight hours each day,” Julie said. An opportunity that would be music to Hannah’s ears.

STRIVING FOR

AMAZING KIDS BUZZ

PERFECTION

9 benefits of going to camp

words Kerrie McLoughlin photos Jesse Brown Nelson

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SUMMER CAMP BUZZ

Summer camps have many benefits that cover all the bases – from physical and social health to mental and spiritual wellness. Get involved this season and get ready for summer camps, classes, workshops and more throughout the Black Hills for children of all ages.

Summer camp is often a place to send younger kids so they aren’t sitting around the house bored and so they’ll make friends and learn new things while having fun. As kids grow out of their “little kid years” we sometimes forget that they still need those kinds of experiences they had when they were younger, just in a different form. Maybe you don’t think your child needs summer camp. Now that they are older, they should be babysitting, mowing lawns, working at the pool, hanging around with friends, right? Well, sure! But why not send them off for a week or more of summer fun and learning this year for a break? Here are some great benefits of older kids attending summer camp.

Learning How To Give Back Community service camps offer a great chance for your child to make a difference and help out in the community while also learning skills that will carry them through their life. Kids get to spend their days helping others, which just feels good to everyone involved. Maybe they will learn how to pack food for the homeless, teach kids how to read or work on a project that will benefit the community like cleaning up a playground or fixing equipment. They could even learn how to paint a house, care for a yard for an elderly person who is unable to do so anymore … or they may even learn how to plan and build a house for someone who is need.

Making New Friends It’s important to continue to grow and change, and adding new friends to one’s life enriches it at any age. Some kids attend the same camp or camps every summer and might find the same friends there year after year. Many are attending for the very first time and need to hone their social skills to make new friends and get to know other kids in their age range outside of a school setting. Being in close proximity for days or weeks helps kids get closer, faster.

Learning New Things Whether your child attends a camp to learn more about horses, adventure, a specific sport, or any other type of camp, they have an entire day, week or longer to focus on that one activity and really immerse themselves in it.

Who knows? They might find a new passion that he never thought of before that could be helpful in his educational or work life later on down the road.

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BUZZ SUMMER CAMP

Deepening Their Faith If your child enjoys church youth groups and activities, a church or other organized religious camp might just be the ticket.

The day might begin with a church service, followed by breakfast, a hike, some time spent in the cabin with friends memorizing Bible verses for a competition at the end of the week. Later there could be singing songs around a bonfire while roasting s’mores.

Developing Hobbies When your child is unplugged from the TV, video game player, smartphone, etc., they can really focus on developing a hobby in a creative way. It seems like these days there’s a camp for pretty much any interest your kid has. There are camps for horse and other animal lovers, sports lovers of all types (think developing soccer skills, swimming, football, volleyball, baseball … anything!), Boy Scout camp (covers so many different hobbies and topics), Girl Scout camp (also covers so many great skills) … the list goes on!

There is a daily structure in place at camp that older children are expected to follow.

Since parents aren’t the ones nagging, they don’t tune it out and they learn to follow and respect other adults.

Learning Teamwork Your child will be meeting kids of different ages and from different backgrounds. Learning how to get along and work as a team is a huge life skill that will be reinforced at camp.

Some camps even have kids do teambuilding and group trust activities to help kids get to know each other.

Staying Active Forget sitting around doing “screen time” all day long during the summer!

When a child attends summer camp, they often forget all about those things and focus on having fun with their friends going on hikes, paddle boating, swimming and more, depending on the camp they choose!

Bonus points for activity if they choose a camp targeted to a sport your kid is passionate about.

Gaining Independence Let’s face it: as our kids get older they start to grow away from us. They are stuck in between childhood and adulthood, and it’s a confusing time. Going away to camp for even a short period of time helps teach independence.

Appreciating Everything Being away from parents, kids will come home with a new appreciation for what it takes to be in a family and what it takes to help out in the running of the household.

Your child will probably also appreciate funny things like a full pantry that’s open all day, their comfy bed, and privacy!

Kerrie McLoughlin is the seasoned homeschooling mom of 5. Three of the kids have done overnight camp and loved it! Find them at TheKerrieShow.com.

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Looking for more organization tips to try this spring? Check out blackhillsparent.com for more ideas from Hannah Beshara.

A MINIMAL-ISH LIFE words Jenna Carda photos Jesse Brown Nelson

SPRING CLEANING BUZZ

W

hen you’re a mom of littles, your house is bound to be a little chaotic.

From toys scattered everywhere and little treasures being stacked onto shelves to those pre-baby jeans hiding in the back of the closet, our homes tend to fill up. Don’t worry!

It happens. But what if there was a simple way to reduce the “stuff” that keeps piling up?

Hannah Beshara is a Black Hills mom of two – Hank (3) and Poppy (6 mo) – and is like many other mommas out there. She works, looks after her two children with her husband Max at her side, attempts to keep a clean and healthy home, and feels the mom guilt whenever chaos takes over.

“Motherhood is crazy – you go through so many emotions, and organization keeps me sane,” laughs Hannah. “I try to control the things I can – the things that I know will help me throughout my day.”

Study after study has shown that there is proven positive psychology behind being organized. According to researchers at Princeton University, clutter can make it more

difficult to focus on a particular task. Another study in the scientific journal Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that women who described their living spaces as “cluttered” were more likely to be fatigued than those who felt their homes were “restful”.

Here are five steps Hannah takes to declutter her home, allowing more freedom and rest to her life.

Empty the Mess Take everything out of the cupboard, drawer, closet – or whatever you’re focusing on that day. You’ll be amazed at what has accumulated over the years, months, or even weeks!

Split the Stash Sort your items into two piles.

All the items that have purpose (the things you need or use every day) and the items that bring you joy will go into Pile One. In Pile Two, place everything else.

“I’ve adopted the phrase ‘minimal-ish’,” said Hannah with a smirk. “It’s not super hard-core – we have more than a chair and a backpack full of clothes, but it’s just going through rooms and really Black Hills Parent

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BUZZ SPRING CLEANING

MONDAY Laundry day Clothes & Linens (Don’t forget to put it away!)

TUESDAY Outdoors day Water the plants Tidy outdoor spaces

“I like to have a cleaning chart of things that I do every day and things that I do on specific days,” explained Hannah. For example, sweeping floors, wiping down surfaces, and small daily tasks are saved for when her littles go to bed or are busy playing with their toys. Free up your weekends by starting your own list of chores.

time cleaning with her, Hannah uses Thieves – a Young Living brand of cleaner that is chemical free. Her tip for other parents: do your research before you start using a product.

“I did a lot of research before I decided I wanted to use more natural stuff. There are a lot of studies you’ll be able to find,” said Hannah. “You know what’s best for your family, and if you find something you think will work – it probably will. And if it doesn’t, try something else. You’re not locked in.”

Staying organized helps Hannah set the track for her busy weeks ahead, keeping a clean house and chasing after children while also working full time.

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Black Hills Parent

thinking about why you have the items you do.”

Grab the Duster Next step – clean (because you know you’re going to find crumbs and missing pieces to things).

“My son loves to help me clean,” said Hannah. “He will choose cleaning supplies like a vacuum over his toys any day.”

To ease the worry about the chemicals her child is ingesting and breathing in while he spends

Replace and Organize After the cleaning is finished, put back your purpose and joy pile – organizing it along the way. There are reasons clutter causes stress – and order can create a haven from it. Displaying sentimental items around your home can re-ignite the memories of experiences you have been through, completing an entire cycle of enjoyment.

Donate and Toss Now you have your “everything else” pile. These are things you don’t really use – the clothes that

WEDNESDAY Inventory day Clean up drawers, shelves, and closets Take stock of pantry items THURSDAY Surfaces day Wipe down mirrors and windows Dust surfaces: shelves,

cupboards, baseboards Sweep, mop, vacuum floors (a good time to shake out rugs, too!)

FRIDAY Scrubbing day Deep clean toilets, sinks, showers Wash up kitchen appliances WEEKEND Recharge!

Meal plan & grocery shop Play and rejuvenate

don’t fit you, the gift you received for your wedding you have no intention of using. Just get rid of it!

This step can be really hard, but it can also be very freeing.

“It’s in our nature to be attached to material things,” said Hannah.

“If you have something you absolutely love – like a sweater – then yes! Keep it! However, when you have something that doesn’t fit you, it brings unnecessary stress to your life to make that item work. Once it’s gone, you won’t have those negative feelings attached to it.”

Doing anything with kids can be difficult if you let the chaos of life take over. “It’s difficult keeping organized and clean with little ones, but I think it is way more manageable than if I didn’t have those things in place,” said Hannah.

These five steps may feel like gigantic leaps to take – especially when children are running around, but who says you need to do an entire room at a time? Start with a drawer, a cupboard, or a bookshelf and go from there.

Take baby steps to bring order and cleansing to your home and life this spring.

can’t find it at the store? get it delivered to your door!

Email us at subscribe@blackhillsparent.com to get BHParent in the mail.

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BHPARENT

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,LLP

Call for appointments (605) 342-3280

Family-friendly recipes to bring everyone together: sdbeef.org

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EDUCATION 2018 HONOREES

TEACHERS OF EXCELLENCE words Jenna Carda photos Jesse Brown Nelson

KELLEY O’BRIEN

4th Grade at Hill City Elementary School, Hill City When you walk in to Mr. O’Brien’s classroom in Hill City, you’ll immediately feel the energy from his students. With walls filled with personal touches, Kelley uses his eclectic collection of animal skulls, sports memorabilia, and Star Trek items to teach his class in a chatty – yet productive – environment.

For Kelley, teaching fourth grade has always been his dream job. When he was younger, Kelley attended boarding school in Nebraska – and there, he learned what it meant to take care of and serve others first. Thinking he may want to explore nursing, Kelley quickly learned he was 28

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not a great student at Anatomy and Physiology, so he geared his skill set and passion to help others towards teaching. Now, as a husband, a dad of triplets, and a coach, Kelley has been teaching for the past 13 years.

“Teaching is a calling that keeps me on my toes,” said Kelley. “It challenges me every day to better than the day before.” That drive to continuously improve each day has been passed down to his students, too.

“My son has always performed well in school, but had very little interest in it,” explained Nicole Weiss, a mom to one of Mr. O’Brien’s former students. “Mr. O’Brien was able to make him passionate and excited about learning to the point where he was excited to go to school.”

“Fourth grade is the perfect combination of students beginning to explore their independence, but they still need reassurance that someone is guiding them in the right direction,” said Kelley.

In his classroom, Mr. O’Brien has the opportunity work with students both in groups and individually. He actively plans his lessons in math, history, science, reading, and writing to allow for exploration and (hopefully) be “wowed” by something before they head home.

“Even though Mr. O’Brien is not our teacher anymore, it is still important to my son to swing by and see him,” said Nicole. “Mr. O’Brien not only impacted fourth grade for us, but has left a lasting, lifelong impression.”

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ELIZABETH MENTELE 1st Grade at West Elementary School, Spearfish

When Ms. Mentele was a student, she wasn’t engaged or motivated to learn – which sparked something in her. Over time, her connection with kids grew into a passion for teaching and inspiring students to love what they are doing.

For the past four years, Elizabeth has been teaching in Spearfish, and doing just what she set out to do – inspire.

“Ms. Mentele teaches her students integrity, community, responsibility, and respect – and it’s apparent that her students love her,” said Elizabeth’s colleague Brooke McLellan. “Watching Ms. Mentele has taught me so many things about how I teach, as well as the kind of human I want to be.”

A typical day in Elizabeth’s classroom starts with “good mornings” and setting a daily goal. As they dive into the day’s topics, she strives to maximize student engagement.

For example, as Elizabeth teaches the power of “Super E” in reading (otherwise known as silent “e”), the students are able to discuss his amazing powers. With the help of magic wands, they transform words with short vowels to long vowels.

“Although I teach all subjects, I think watching my students become readers and writers is my favorite,” said Elizabeth.

“The meat of first grade is learning how to read, and there’s no greater joy than seeing a student’s confidence grow when that ‘light bulb’ moment happens.”

Not only does Elizabeth teach her students about fundamentals of education, but she aims to make a difference in their individual lives, too.

“My mentor I had during my student teaching internship – Mrs. Nadene Harr – opened my eyes to the importance of understanding child growth and development,” said Elizabeth.

“Although academics are always priority, teaching life skills are equally important.”

From her colorfully decorated classroom, to hands-on learning activities and intricate lesson plans, Ms. Mentele is inspiring those around her each and every day.

“She is a passionate, committed, quality educator who understands the value of relationships with students, families, and her colleagues. She represents herself, our school, and the profession well,” said West Elementary School Principal Nick Gottlob.

And it’s her passion, commitment, and love of teaching that makes Elizabeth an A+ Teacher.

PROUD SPONSORS OF THE 2018 BH PARENT TEACHERS OF EXCELLENCE

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EDUCATION 2018 HONOREES

PENNY SHUSTER LOUKS 8th Grade Language Arts at Belle Fourche Middle School, Belle Fourche

A love of helping others has always been in Penny’s nature. When she reached ninth grade, her English teacher enlisted her help to assist struggling peers with their grammar and reading. From there, the interest in teaching struck a chord with Penny. Now, Mrs. Louks has been welcoming her students into her classroom for over 25 years.

Penny is a mom of three boys which has given her many of her strengths as a teacher. She has taught in three states and has found her home in South Dakota as an eighth grade Language Arts teacher at Belle Fourche Middle School.

“Eighth graders are ‘my people’,” smiled Penny. “They are on the brink of adulthood, but not totally set in their ways, yet. You never know what they are going to say or be interested in, but that is all a part of their charm! I’m honored 30

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to help them discover their talents.”

Together, Penny and her students break projects like research papers and reading important historical documents into organized, diverse chunks of information–making the learning process of big ideas a bit easier to take in.

“Penny has a huge heart and is always willing to assist colleagues or students when they need help,” said Principal Kevin Smidt. “She sets high expectations and offers help and motivation; that’s why students benefit from being in her classroom.”

That motivation Mrs. Louks passes onto her students is contagious and is recognized by many.

“Mrs. Louks treats every day as a new opportunity for her students to demonstrate their love of learning,” said Penny’s colleague Julie Hatling.

“She works countless hours carefully organizing projects and discussions– encouraging students to express themselves and think critically.”

Not only is Penny inspiring her students to be their best version of themselves, but she is an advocate for making the district a better place, too.

In 2006, Penny received her Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, as well as gaining National Board Certification in Early Adolescent Language Arts in 2011. Through these programs, her knowledge of leadership and data driven teaching methods grew phenomenally—becoming a strong asset to both her classroom and school.

Penny serves as an active member of the Building Leadership Team, in addition to the District Data Leadership Team– facilitating professional development and the progression of English Language Arts in the school system.

“The dedication that Mrs. Louks shows to our students, parents, staff, and school district are unsurpassed by any individual, and she is an exceptional asset to the Belle Fourche School District,” said Julie.

HONOREES EDUCATION

LACEY HOOGLAND Grades 6-12 at Black Hills Lutheran School, Rapid City

Lacey is a lover of learning. From opening a history book in second grade, she has had a passion for gathering knowledge and helping others see its value.

Mrs. Hoogland began her career in teaching for two years then transitioned to being an education consultant for five years–providing guidance to educational organizations and professionals. Now, for the past six years, Lacey has taught at Black Hills Lutheran School as a multi-level teacher for grades six through 12 in addition to being the school’s administrator.

As a mom of two young boys, Lacey is kept busy and grounded with their excitement for life. This transitions into her teaching, too. As students begin to learn and analyze what they are being taught, Lacey assists them in finding answers to their questions–helping them find a true passion of learning.

“The best thing about where I teach is that we are able to share Jesus, grace, love and forgiveness each day,” said Lacey. “It offers students the opportunity to deal with problems in a positive way so they can impact their schoolmates and families.”

Many people, especially the parents of the school’s students, recognize the environment Lacey creates at her school and in her classroom.

Mrs. Hoogland’s classroom is all about discussion, discovery, and learning. Sifting through historical writings, philosophical concepts, and voicing their findings happens each and every day–leading students to become the best versions of themselves.

“Lacey is not only an amazing mother and director, she is an amazing teacher, too,” said Melissa Elliott, a parent to one of Zion Lutheran’s students – a sister school to Black Hills Lutheran School. “She goes above and beyond for her students and staff, and she truly enjoys what she does.”

Lacey meets her students where they are at, then helps them accomplish more than they could imagine–making her a Black Hills teacher of excellence.

PROUD SPONSORS OF THE 2018 BH PARENT TEACHERS OF EXCELLENCE

2323 E. Mall Drive, Rapid City, SD (605) 343-1282 dennymenholtrapidchevrolet.com

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EDUCATION 2018 HONOREES

BRANDY PERKINS 2nd Grade at General Beadle Elementary School, Rapid City

Brandy Perkins has always had a love of teaching. Beginning her career in education, Mrs. Perkins taught customers, co-workers, employees, and adult students for certification classes. During a family vacation in 2010, Brandy realized it was time for a change–to make a difference for the future.

She grew up in Colorado and gained valuable experiences at elementary schools while she pursued her Masters Degree in Elementary Education. As she finished her last semester of school, Brandy and her husband moved to the Black Hills. She joined the family at General Beadle Elementary School in 2012 and has been there ever since.

“Brandy is a very passionate teacher who always has the students’ best interests at heart,” said Principal Cary Davis. “What I love most about her and her classroom is the high expectations she sets for her students.”

Those expectations are what define Mrs. Perkins’ way of teaching–being inspiring, supportive, and most of all, fun!

This past fall, Brandy’s students were able to work on a project to call their own to keep as a memory of their accomplishments. Each child wrote about the things they were most thankful for.

After revisions and drafts, the pages came together in a bound book for each student.

“We were all very excited when the published product arrived,” said Brandy.

“Seeing each of my students beam with pride over what they had accomplished was energizing.”

The students Brandy has the opportunity to teach make exceptional progress and become happier, more confident kids.

“Brandy becomes an advocate for every student she is given,” said Brandy’s colleague Tiffany Trask. “She makes sure they get the support they need, the necessities they need, and the consistency and care they deserve in their lives. Under her watch, every student will reach their potential.”

The time, effort, and care Brandy exudes to every child in her class are outstanding and recognized by many.

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WE PROUDLY

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OUR EDUCATORS A teacher’s workday extends beyond the classroom. They are role models, they inspire, and they mold us into who we are today. We want to say “Thank You” by offering special pricing for educators. Check out gmeducatordiscount.com for more information.

Must be employed by a public school, private school, college or university. Please note that teachers employed by state or municipal governments may be subject to restrictions that limit their ability to accept this offer. For more information, go to www.gmeducatordiscount.com for rules and guidelines. Authorization numbers obtained are valid for 90 days toward the purchase or lease of an eligible vehicle at The Program Price.

Call or Text (605) 343-1282

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words Michelle Pawelski

Beyond the double doors of the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Elementary School, giggles spill out of the classrooms. Artwork lines the walls featuring little handprints and unique ideas on how to cook a Thanksgiving turkey.

Little backpacks and coats fill the cubbies all along the Preschool hallway. Inside each classroom, children from ages 3-5 are starting their day with a prayer before delving into a myriad of activities from art projects and math lessons to outdoor activities and religious education.

Students entering Jana Thies’s classroom pick a card and find the spot on the large rug associated with their card. After prayer and the morning announcements, Thies begins talking about their project of the day – Kindness Matters. The students share what kindness means to them – “sharing, being nice, not hitting or pushing.” Later that afternoon, the students will paint rocks with their ideas of kindness and then give them as gifts or leave them for someone to find. After discussing their weekend and a quick math lesson in how many hot and cold lunches the class has, the students split up for some playtime.

For six years, the child development program has been located at the former St. Martin’s Academy off Sturgis Road. The Preschool through 5th grade classes moved to the new facility in 2012 after outgrowing its previous location at the St. Thomas More Middle School. Last year, due to increasing enrollment, the preschool expanded again.

“We’ve grown tremendously out here,” said Thies, child development director and Pre-K teacher.

The current enrollment is 113 students spread throughout the 3-year-old, 4-year-old and Pre-K programs. The recent expansion

ST. ELIZABETH ANN SETON ELEMENTARY allows for additional classroom space, reading areas and art corners giving kids plenty of room to express themselves. The Preschool also features a private playground with a small track with Striders, trikes and other equipment for the students to utilize. “We definitely try to get outdoors as much as possible,” Thies said.

The focus of the preschool programs is to promote the development of all aspects of the child: spiritually, socially, emotionally, intellectually and physically, all while having fun!

Students are introduced to the Bible and learn prayers in the faith-based environment, learn expression through words, phrases and sentences, and participate in hands-on activities and games that encourage ideas and interaction with others. To further enrich the whole pre-school experience, students attend weekly music, physical education, library and computer classes.

Embedded within its daily curriculum is prayer and focus on the Rapid City

Catholic School System’s mission of “personal and academic excellence in the Catholic Tradition.”

Preschoolers begin their growth in faith, knowledge and community service that continues throughout their years in the school system. Community involvement is also a big part of their curriculum, Thies said. Every year, the students visit residents at the Good Samaritan Society St. Martins Village for Halloween and sing Christmas carols for the Benedictine Nuns.

Thies, who has been with the school system for 11 years, loves to see the growth and gained independence of the students.

“They are sponges and just love school and are excited to be here.” Thies is just one of several preschool teachers and aides, many who have been with the school for years and provide a safe and healthy learning environment.

For more information or for a tour of the preschool, visit rccss.org or contact Marica Werner at 605-343-8484 ext.1203.

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GIRLS IN STEM EDUCATION

Raising a Scientist

words Kelsey Sinclair photos Jesse Brown Nelson

It is no secret that women are grossly underrepresented in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. The proportion of women pursuing science degrees in some fields like computer science has actually decreased since the 1980s by 20 percent.

According to a study from Florida Gulf Coast University and the University of Colorado at Boulder, two thirds of elementary girls were interested in science, the same number as boys. In middle school, the number diverges, and is distinctly different by high school. The report added, “many girls who take advanced science courses in middle school do not continue to study science in high school.”

Women, educators, and parents in the Black Hills are working to change that for the next generation of girls!

Lisa Carlson is the director of WiSE (Women in Science and Engineering) at the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology. WiSE helps female students succeed by hosting STEMinist study halls, social and networking events, industry and alumni talks from women in science, and coffee talks about topics in academia. In addition, WiSE provides outreach to young girls interested in STEM subjects in the Black Hills, including summer camps, co-sponsoring the annual Women in Science Conference, student panel sessions, and other outreach events.

“Even though girls are just as adept as boys in science and math, there are too

few role models in those fields for girls to look up to,” explained Lisa. “The problem is systemic: too few women in leadership positions, pictured in movies, and in the STEM pipeline to eventually become those role models. Too few STEM faculty members and teachers who are women, and less girls that go into those fields means less opportunity for those girls to become women role models. Girls begin to lose the most interest in middle school, when social pressure becomes high.”

So what can parents and teachers do to help keep young girls interested in STEM? Encourage them to play with educational toys like legos and science kits, go to science-themed summer camps and programs, and show girls young STEM role models such as teenage mathematician Priyanshi Somani.

“Encourage your daughters to explore, and help to shatter gender stereotypes by encouraging creative play. Don’t let them be afraid to get dirty. Don’t discourage watching traditionally “male” programming on PBS and other educational television shows. Encourage play with toys like Goldiblocks, 3 Doodler pens, Legos, and science kits,” said Lisa. “Things like that will help kids connect everyday situations to science and engineering and will also help girls think about ways to help change the world through STEM fields.”

Carrie Robley is the Director of Rapid City’s chapter of Girls Inc, a program dedicated to help build up local girls Black Hills Parent

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Madison Cramer from Spearfish loves science and was excited when she was asked by the BHParent team to join us for a laboratory shoot at Black Hills State University.

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from ages six to 17 to become more responsible and confident through numerous recreational activities. STEM activities for the girls are woven into dayto-day operations.

“Our girls love to build things, so we make sure that our classrooms and playground have plenty of materials for them to use creatively. We also implement weekly hands-on Operation SMART (Science, Math and Relevant Technology) classroom sessions, and the girls have access to guided activities in our Computer Lab,” explained Carrie.

Carrie believes there are many factors leading to the lack of women in STEM such as: lack of exposure when they are young, gender stereotypes, self-doubt and a lack of confidence in mathematical abilities, lack of encouragement, and not many female role models in STEM. “Assume girls are interested in STEM. Too many girls still get the message that math and science aren’t for them. Let girls learn to embrace their intellectual curiosity and trust their own judgment. Help them get past the ‘yuck’ factor. Girls who are afraid of getting dirty aren’t born that way— they’re made. Girls should learn that they have a right to be themselves, pursue what interests them, and resist gender stereotypes,” said Carrie. “The more exposure girls have to STEM opportunities and experiences the better. This will help spark that interest and confidence when it comes time to start making decisions about their future goals.”

GIRLS IN STEM EDUCATION

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STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, STEM occupations are growing 17% per year and STEM degree holders have a higher income.

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PRE-K FUN EDUCATION

words Sarah Lyons photo Jesse Brown Nelson o your children have an interest in figuring out how things work? Do they enjoy experimenting with their surroundings?

You may have a budding engineer, astronaut, mathematician or scientist on your hands. Even kids who are not naturally drawn to all things math and science enjoy exploring their environment and figuring out how they work. STEM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, are activities that engage kids of all ages in these specific areas. While a career in the STEM field may seem like a long time off for your preschooler, STEM education creates critical thinkers, increases science literacy, and enables innovation of new products in the future. Most would agree that jobs of the future will require a basic understanding of math, science, and technology and it is never too early to start developing your child’s interest in these areas. While many schools are developing STEM curriculums for classrooms, there are plenty of things you can do at home to kickstart your preschooler’s love of science.

STEM in the kitchen Your school teachers were right, you do use math and science in everyday life. You may already love cooking with your kids, but consider incorporating science and math lesson at the same time. While baking cookies, have your children help measure the ingredients, count the scoops of flour, talk about what happens if you do not use the correct measurements, and discuss what the purpose of baking powder and baking soda is. (It leavens the batter to rise while baking.) Make the experience fun and educational at the same time. Your child may not even notice they are learning about math and science while baking and sampling tasty treats.

DIY science lab Create your own science lab mixing station at home. All you need is several plastic or glass containers (clear ones are best) of any shape and size. Fill them with dry ingredients such as baking soda, baking powder, salt, sugar, and cornstarch.

Fill additional containers with wet ingredients such as water, white vinegar, lemon juice, and ice. It may be wise to lay towels underneath your mixing station or set the ingredients up outside so you can have fun without worrying about the difficulty of cleaning up the mess.

Once your science lab is set up, it’s time to get creative.

Let your kids experiment with

what happens when different ingredients are mixed. This activity is great for preschoolers but can also be adopted to older children by providing them with a journal to record the results of each combination of ingredients when they are mixed.

Use what you have Set up a sensory bin using dried beans, water beads, or rice as a filler, then hide items inside.

Ask your child to find the red dinosaur, count the green items, or close their eyes and guess what items they feel.

Encourage your little engineer or architect to build a tower using toothpicks and marshmallows or fill a tray with shaving cream and blocks and ask if they think the shaving cream will help their blocks stick together. Sharpen their math skills with colored cereal like Fruit Loops. Ask your child to sort the pieces by color and count them. Then, have them string the cereal on yarn.

Preschoolers love to explore with their hands and all of their senses which makes the possibilities endless. Plant a garden, fill water glasses with food coloring and mix to learn about colors, count and sort items throughout the day, talk about and chart the weather, or play with magnets and a cookie sheet. Make it fun and see what potential activities you have laying around the house. STEM is around us every day just waiting to be explored!

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Mom. Doctor. Local Expert.

Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Halie Anderson, MD “As a pediatrician with specialty training in all aspects of adult and pediatric allergy and immunology, I am happy to be back in the Black Hills and look forward to serving the unique healthcare needs of your entire family.”

Environmental Allergies/Hey fever • Immunotherapy (i.e. Allergy shots) Eczema • Asthma • Food allergy • Drug Allergy • Stinging Insect Allergy Immune System Problems • Other Allergy Related Problems

Call to Schedule: 605-342-3280 2820 Mt. Rushmore Rd. Rapid City, SD 57701 ,LLP

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*Home buyer education or housing counsleing is required. Non-AMI: lender will give $2 for every $1 raised up to the lesser of $1,000 or 1% of Purchase Price. AMI: lender will give $2 for every $1 raised up to the lesser of $2,500 or 1% of Purchase Price.

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HomeFundMe™ is a service provided by CMG Financial © 2017 All Rights Reserved. CMG Financial is a registered trade name of CMG Mortgage, Inc., NMLS# 1820 in most, but not all states. CMG Mortgage, Inc. is an equal opportunity lender, licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act No. 4150025.www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org. *Housing counseling must be completed by HUD approved housing counselor to receive CMG Financial grant. Find a housing counselor near you by visiting https://www.hud.gov/oces/hsg/sfh/hcc/hcs.cfm. CMG Financial grant will match ever $1 raised with a $2 contribution up to 1% of the purchase price but is restricted to $2500 for customers under the area median income and $1000 for customers who are both over the area median income and rst time home buyers. Please consult with your Realtor to determine if there are any Realtor association restrictions regarding their ability to contribute to down payment.

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BLACK HILLS READS

CAMPAIGN FOR

GRADE-LEVEL

READING HELPING ADDRESS THE CHALLENGES OF READING ACHIEVEMENT IN THE BLACK HILLS United Way of the Black Hills 621 6th St Ste 100 Rapid City SD 57701 (605)343-5872 unitedwayblackhills.org To learn more about Black Hills Reads, contact Jamie Toennies at 605-343-5872 or jamie@unitedwayblackhills.org.

LIVE UNITED

Five Steps to Help Find Lost Library Books words Cheryl Maguire main photo Jesse Brown Nelson inset photo John Phelan

T

here once was a time when I would consider myself an organized person who rarely lost anything, definitely never a library book.

Now that I’m the mother of twins and a daughter who love books, I can no longer attest to this fact. In an attempt to reclaim some sanity, I came up with the following five step plan to use next time a book goes missing. You, of course, could apply these principles for any lost item, but I know it’s the library book you are searching for. The library has deadlines. The library wants money.

And most importantly if you don’t return the book, they will know the truth, you were unable to keep track of a large 10 x 12 picture book.

Step 1. Check the Library Shelf This may seem like wishful thinking, but on more than one occasion I returned the library book and it was

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READING EDUCATION

little free libraries

never checked-in. So before you ransack your house, berating yourself with, “I could have sworn I returned that book. I must be losing my mind,” make sure it isn’t at the library.

Step 2. Last Known Location The true crime genre has inspired the next few steps. You can apply some of their investigative techniques to your search. I always start with this one: “Where did you last see the library book?” Granted, the kids usually never remember, which requires you to answer it, but it’s important to figure out since it is almost always there, somewhere, hiding.

Step 3. Use a Flashlight This might seem a bit of stretch to use a flashlight like an actual detective, but it works. I found gift cards, earrings, DS games (obviously designed by a childless person who never searched for a pin-size lost one), and library books by using a flashlight. Even in a well-lit room, the flashlight reflects off the item in such a way to help you see it. And, of course, it helps you to see into dark places like under the couch, inside the couch and behind it (books are swallowed up by that darn couch— always check the couch).

Step 4. Look Again Do you remember the last time you saw an optical illusion? You tried to see the face, but couldn’t, even though it is right there in front of you. Or when you are staring at the “look and find pictures” and your kid finds the apple in two seconds, yet you can’t see it?

The same rule applies here, it is in the

words Megan Handshue location you looked, you didn’t see it, so look again. Trust me it is there (most of the time unless you skipped Step 1 and the book is on the library shelf).

Step 5. Least Likely Place You have reached the last step. You have tried all of the above yet you are still are empty handed. You start to panic a little about having to admit to the librarian “the truth” and then you realize, maybe you haven’t searched everywhere. Now it is time to check the least likely place you would expect to find it. I’m referring to under the mattress, inside another book or at the bottom of the toy box (all places I have found lost library books).

I realize you don’t want to search these places such as the toy box because it is time consuming and would require you to dump the box of toys and then clean it all up, but you are out of options, it’s either clean or confess, it’s up to you.

Hopefully these steps will help you feel less frustrated, more in control and find that pesky library book so the truth can remain where it belongs, concealed.

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology. She is the mother of twins and a daughter, and her writing has been published in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Count Your Blessings, Parent Co., Mothers Always Write and Twins Magazine.

With 30 locations around the Black Hills, chances are you have seen a Little Free Library or perhaps have one in your neighborhood. The mission of these whimsical “leave a book, take a book” little boxed houses is to build community, spark creativity, and inspire readers.

Ted Bol of Hudson, Wisconsin started this non-profit movement as a tribute to his mother–a teacher and avid reader–and is now an award winning nonprofit organization with 60,000 locations worldwide.

Anyone can start a Little Free Library by either designing and building their own and registering it online or purchasing a kit from headquarters, adding a few books, and appointing a steward to maintain the library. The impact of the pop-up Little Free Library grassroots movement is only positive, and schools have especially utilized the fixtures as a tool to teach the importance of both literacy and making a difference within a community, all while teaching responsibility.

In Rapid City, the Children’s House Montessori appoints their elementary students to maintain the library on their campus. And, the fourth graders at Creekside Elementary in Spearfish recently conducted a book drive raising over 350 books for their Little Free Library!

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Looking for a copy of “Husker the Mule” kid’s books?

Visit Codi’s website sdprairiewriter.com, retail locations in Belle Fourche and Sturgis, and Amazon.

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READING EDUCATION

words Jenna Carda photos Jesse Brown Nelson

C

odi Mills has always had a love of reading. Growing up in the country, she looked forward to the mobile library that came past her family’s house once each month. Her mother would allow Codi gracious amounts of time to browse through each story to make her final selection.

These memories have since translated into something more–authoring her very own children’s book inspired by a red mule residing on the Mills’ family ranch near Belle Fourche.

“I began writing in the third grade (short stories, keeping a diary, etc.),” said Codi, “and I’ve never stopped–there’s always something going on in my head!”

As a professional journalist for a regional agriculture publication, she has been able to share stories with numerous people beyond South Dakota’s borders. Then, in 2014, Codi took the leap and published her first book: “Husker the Mule: A Birthday Present”, working with a western illustrator from Faith, SD to bring the book to life.

“She was pretty excited when they came in the mail,” reminisced Codi’s husband, Brian. “I was proud of her. Writing a book was something she’s

always wanted to do–something on her bucket list–and she put a lot of work into it.”

As with many children’s books, there is a moral lesson behind the story of “Husker the Mule”.

Carter, a main character in the book, goes with his grandpa to pick out a horse. He learns to not judge on appearances and give everyone a chance– then chooses the mule when he realizes it can do everything a horse can.

“Stories can make you think differently about many things,” said Rhonda Vallery, Codi’s mom, “You can read along in the story about lessons and teach a child without preaching–then talk about it together.

Reading is exciting that way.”

In 2016, Codi launched her second book—“Husker the Mule: Does His Chores”. Now, both editions sit on their four-year-old daughter Kimber’s bookshelf.

“As a mom, reading is important. We read every day—always at bedtime, but if it’s nice outside we’ll take books out and read under a tree in the afternoon,” said Codi. “Reading opens up worlds of possibilities. If you can read, you can learn; if you can learn, you can do. And, if you can do–well, then there is nothing to stop you, really.”

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TIME SPARE SOME

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Black Hills Parent

Randy Horsley, a “Big” at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Black Hills, and his “Little” Isaac take a break from bowling to pose for a photo at Robbinsdale Entertainment Center in Rapid City.

words Lyndsey Akley photos Jesse Brown Nelson Everybody needs somebody.

It sounds simple, doesn’t it?

However, many children are still looking for that somebody. That’s where Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Black Hills comes in—by providing meaningful matches between adult volunteers “Bigs” and program participants “Littles”.

Incorporated in our area over 50 years ago, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Black Hills has impacted thousands of families through their mentoring programs.

Nicole Burdick, the organization’s Executive Director, says one-onone mentoring is at the core of their mission and shapes the way participants interact.

MAKING AN IMPACT COLUMN

As of November 2017, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Black Hills has made 310 matches

“All it takes is one conversation, one meal, or one book at a time. Those little moments build up to give kids confidence and become who they are.”

The organization provides a range of programs that focus on different needs in the community including traditional programming, mentoring, and school collaborations.

As the nation’s largest donor and volunteer supported mentoring network, program participation is free. To become a Little, a legal guardian of a child ages 5-15 must complete the application, go through a short interview process, and wait for their match.

Becoming a Big is more indepth. They must complete an application, attend a number of interviews, provide references,

mpact

receive training, and have a thorough background check.

“Parents trust their children into our care, and we make sure our volunteers are as safe as they come,” Nicole said.

After interviews are completed, staff looks for a specific area where assistance is needed or an immediate connection to help determine the matches.

Once matches are made, they meet on a consistent basis, are periodically evaluated, and are provided constant support by the 10 person office staff at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Black Hills.

Whether they need a positive role model, are looking for someone to enjoy the outdoors with, or even help with schoolwork, the focused attention the children receive is very important to their growth. René

Suiter, a first-year Big, is a part of the Adopt-a-Class program and has a first grade Study Buddy.

“That one-on-one interaction makes such a positive difference; you can see the change almost immediately,” she said.

The impact of the matches here and now can be obvious, but the letters and announcements that come in, thanking the staff for their influence while growing up, prove that they are truly making a difference in the long term of people’s lives, as well.

Whether individuals realize it or not, they have had mentors throughout their life. To be that conduit in placing the right person in a child’s life that needs a mentor helps fuel Nicole and her staff.

“Once you see those matches start to work, it gives you the fire to keep going.”

PROUD SUPPORTERS OF BLACK HILLS COMMUNITY NONPROFITS MAKING AN IMPACT 329 MAIN STREET, STE.1 RAPID CITY, SD 605.343.7684 ImpactRapidCity.com

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COLUMN MEDICAL

GOOD FOR WHAT AILS YOU Although urgent care is not intended to replace primary care, some types of injury or illness can be treated at an Urgent Care center rather than a hospital emergency room. These lists are a good guide on where to go.

To get healthy, and to stay healthy–busy families need both.

Primary Care Wellness/ preventive exams • Well-child checks • Routine physicals and checkups • Immunizations • Diagnostic screenings • Diagnosis and management of chronic medical conditions • Geriatric care • Referrals to specialists •

URGENT CARE OR FAMILY DOCTOR? words Dan Daly, Communications Specialist at Regional Hospital On a recent afternoon at the Regional Health Urgent Care Center on LaCrosse Street, the mood was decidedly nonurgent. Visitors sat calmly in the sun-filled waiting room, sipping coffee, flipping through magazines and watching TV while they waited for family members to finish their medical visit. The scene looked like any other doctor’s office waiting room in the Black Hills.

The urgent care concept has created a no-hassle option for area families. You don’t need to make an appointment or take time off work. The provider can suture a cut on your hand, prescribe medicine for your child’s cough or take an X-ray to make sure your son’s arm is not broken.

In fact, some parents have come to believe that urgent care can completely replace the traditional family doctor.

That’s not a good idea, said Dr. Alexia Gillen, Physician and Medical Director at Regional Urgent Care.

She’s been on both sides of the family medical care equation, first as a primary care provider and for the last six years in urgent care.

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Black Hills Parent

“Everybody should have a primary care provider, even if you only see them once a year,” Dr. Gillen said.

Urgent care is great for patients who are injured or ill, but unable to see their regular doctor. Care can be offered quickly and conveniently for patients of all ages.

Increasingly, primary care providers have full schedules in their clinics, and it’s hard to make last-minute appointments.

And busy working families can’t always take time off in the middle of the day.

“Life happens after-hours,” said Jessica Daigle, Manager of Regional Health Urgent Care.

However, your primary care doctor knows you, and knows your health history.

They see you’ve gotten thinner in the face since your last visit. They see your child’s frequent earaches might require a visit to an ear-nose-throat specialist. Urgent care treats your symptoms and illnesses acutely, but family medicine providers help you prevent symptoms and treat your chronic illnesses.

And for a lot of patients and families, the primary care provider, family medicine physician or pediatrician is a familiar, trusted face. That can be especially important for young children, for whom a doctor visit is a scary thing.

Urgent Care • Minor orthopedic injuries/ symptoms – sprains and fractures • Cuts/lacerations • Upper respiratory symptoms/ cough/cold • Fever • Urinary infections • Ear pain/ infections • Vomiting and diarrhea • Sore throat • Mild abdominal pain or symptoms • Flu symptoms • Sports physicals

Emergency Room • Chest pain particularly radiating pain into the arms or associated with shortness of breath or sweating – recommend calling 911 • Sudden changes in mental status • Severe shortness of breath • Loss of consciousness • Severe pain • Severe bleeding or shock symptoms • Weakness in an extremity • Slurring of speech • Seizures • Life- or limbthreating injuries

BHPARENT

Let’s Recognize Exceptional Nurses!

Black Hills Parent wants to recognize nursing professionals throughout the Black Hills.

Has a nurse impacted your life or a loved one’s with their comfort, care and exceptional skills?

Is your medical practice that much stronger because a dedicated nurse is improving the lives of patients and colleagues every day?

Nominate a Black Hills RN or LPN online at BlackHillsParent.com.

CUTE KIDS

SHARE YOUR CUTIES ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM WITH #BLACKHILLSCUTIES

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Black Hills Parent

BLACK HILLS CUTIES

SHOP LOCAL AND ONLINE

329 Main Street, Ste. 3, Rapid City (605) 343-8722 shopkicksandgiggles.com

Black Hills Parent

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CALENDAR MARCH

MARCH

Tuesdays

CS First Coding Club

5 p.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151 Tuesdays

Little Owl Tuesdays Join in the fun and listen to favorite stories and songs with a library storyteller.

9-10:15 a.m., Rapid City Public Library, Meeting Room B, 300 6th Street, Rapid City Thursdays

Baby Bumblebee Thursdays

Bring your little ones for a fun-filled story time led by one of our library storytellers.

9:30-10 a.m., Rapid City Public Library, Meeting Room B, 300 6th Street, Rapid City Fridays

Preschool Storytime 10:30 a.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151 Second Saturdays

Saturday Art Adventures

Free family-oriented art activities and tours of the galleries are fun and educational.

1-3 p.m., Dahl Arts Center, 713 7th Street, Rapid City, 605-394-4101 Thursdays beginning March 15

Financial Freedom, Life INC West

Tired of living paycheck to paycheck? Learn the A-Z essentials of getting out of debt and managing money. Register online at www.loveinconline.com.

Dinner: 5:30 p.m., Class: 6:158:15 p.m., South Canyon Baptist Church, 3333 West Chicago St, 605-718-5683

Tuesdays beginning March 20

Saturday 3-4

Saturday 10

Tired of living paycheck to paycheck? Learn the A-Z essentials of getting out of debt and managing money. Register online at www.loveinconline.com.

Dinner: 5:30 p.m., Class: 6:15-8:15 p.m., Faith Lutheran Church, 17 Indiana Street, 605-718-5683.

Make your own rockets and learn about the female astronauts NASA has put into space!

3:30-4 p.m., Journey Museum, 222 New York Street, Rapid City, 605-394-6923

Garry Krinsky brings his science toys to life with motion, music, humor and insight. He turns audience members into stars as he playfully shares the stage, juggling, balancing and welcoming them into his colorful world.

Tickets required.

11 a.m.- noon, Performing Arts Center, 601 Columbus St., Rapid City, 605-394-1786

Financial Freedom, Life INC South

Tuesdays beginning March 27

Financial Freedom, Life INC East

Tired of living paycheck to paycheck? Learn the A-Z essentials of getting out of debt and managing money. Register online at www.loveinconline.com.

Dinner: 5:30 p.m. Class 6:158:15 p.m., Rapid Valley United Methodist Church, 5103 Longview Drive, 605-718-5683.

Friday 2-30

Middle School Art Exhibit and Youth Arts Month Celebration

An eclectic, colorful array of work by local middle school students.

Opening reception: Thursday, March 8, 5-7pm.

10 a.m.- 6 p.m., Dahl Arts Center’s Bruce H. Lien Cultural Café & Gallery, 713 7th St, 605-394-4101 Friday 2

Friday Skate Nights Family Skate Night.

5:30-8:30 p.m., Spearfish Rec & Aquatics Center, 122 Recreation Lane, Spearfish, 605-722-1430 Friday 2

National Read Across America Day Grab a book and read today it’s Dr. Seuss’s birthday!

Friday 2

Lego Play

Play with Legos at the Hot Springs library!

2 p.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151

Discovery Expedition: NASA Rockets

Saturday 3

Black Hills Symphony Orchestra Presents: And the Winner Is… This evening of homegrown talent featured the Young Artist Competition winner joining the Symphony. The Symphony’s own principal oboist, Nancy Olney, performs the Peter Schickele Oboe Concerto.

7:30 p.m., Performing Arts Center of Rapid City, 601 Columbus St., Rapid City, 605-394-1786 Monday 5-9

Strider Balance Bike Camp

Each class is designed to maximize fun, promote interactive growth through practice and skill building for balance, gliding and turning. Helmets are required.

Ages: 2-5, Spearfish Rec and Aquatics Center, 122 Recreation Lane, Spearfish, 605-722-1430 Wednesday 7

PACRC Family Series: Toying with Science

Saturday 10

Introduction to Backpacking

Interested in backpacking but don’t know where to start? Join us to learn more about gear, clothing, food, navigation and more.

10 a.m.-noon, Outdoor CampusWest, 4130 Adventure Trail, Rapid City, 605-394-2310 Saturday 10

Rush Hockey

Rapid City Rush vs Colorado Eagles 7:05 p.m., Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, 800-468-6463 Sunday 11

Daylight Savings Time

It’s time to spring forward!

Rush Hockey

Wednesday 14

Friday 9

Rapid City Rush vs Allen Americans 7:05 p.m., Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, 800-468-6463

Rapid City Rush vs Tulsa Oilers 7:05 p.m., Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, 800-468-6463

Rush Hockey

Rapid City Rush vs Colorado Eagles 7:05 p.m., Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, 800-468-6463 Saturday 10-11

Discovery Expedition: Make a Sundial

Rush Hockey

Wednesday 14

Black Hills Regional Job Fair

Providing exhibitors with over 2000 candidates seeking full-time, part-time, temporary, internship, or seasonal positions.

Noon-6 p.m., Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., 605-394-4115

Find out why we have daylight savings time and make your own sundial!

3:30-4 p.m., Journey Museum, 222 New York Street, Rapid City, 605-394-6923

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Black Hills Parent

URGENT CARE When urgent matters call for urgent care

EASY ONLINE CHECK-IN AND WAIT TIMES

MyChart Check-in!

regionalhealth.org Regional Health Rapid City Urgent Cares become South Dakota’s first accredited centers 160221_0118

Urgent Care Services Custer 1041 Montgomery Street 605-673-9460

Newcastle 1121 Washington Boulevard 307-746-6720

Lead-Deadwood 71 Charles Street 605-717-6431

Rapid City 1303 North Lacrosse Street 605-755-2273 2116 Jackson Boulevard 605-755-2273

Spearfish 1420 North 10th Street 605-717-8595 Sturgis 2140 Junction Avenue 605-720-2600

CALENDAR MARCH

Saturday 17

St. Patrick’s Day

JUANREC!H M Thursday 15

Housekeeping 101, Life INC West

Learn baby steps on good housekeeping and home organization. Register online at www.loveinconline.com.

Dinner:5:30 p.m. Class 6:158:15 p.m., South Canyon Baptist Church, 3333 West Chicago St, 605-718-5683.

Thursday 15

Art Class, Life INC West

Learn how to design and build a cardboard house with furniture.

Register online at www.loveinconline.com.

Dinner:5:30 p.m. Class 6:158:15 p.m., South Canyon Baptist Church, 3333 West Chicago St, 605-718-5683.

Friday 16

Rush Hockey

Rapid City Rush vs Wichita Thunder 7:05 p.m., Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, 800-468-6463 Friday 16

Kids Movie at the Library

Come to the library and watch a school-age children movie. Snacks are served, but bring a drink.

2 p.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151 Saturday 17-18

30th Anniversary Black Hills Motorcycle Show

Adult admission is $7 and children 12 and under are free if accompanied by an adult.

The show benefits the Club for Boys in Rapid City.

10 a.m., Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, 605-394-4115

Don’t forget to wear green!

Saturday 17

Leprechaun Leap 5K T-shirt included with full registration.

8:15 a.m. check-in; 9 a.m. start, BHSU Gravel Lot, Spearfish Rec. & Aquatics Center, 122 Recreation Ln., Spearfish, 605-722-1430 Saturday 17

Rush Hockey

Rapid City Rush vs Wichita Thunder 7:05 p.m., Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, 800-468-6463 Saturday 17

during this week’s Discovery Expedition!

3:30 p.m.-4 p.m., Journey Museum, 222 New York Street, Rapid City, 605-394-6923 Saturday 24

Outdoor Survival Skills

Learn basic skills to help you survive an unexpected overnight stay in the Black Hills. Dress to go outside to practice shelter building, campfire building techniques, and other fun survival skills.

10 a.m.- 3 p.m., Outdoor CampusWest, 4130 Adventure Trail, Rapid City, 605-394-2310 Tuesday 27

Nutrition on a Budget

Learn fly tying techniques to tie flies that can be used in all kinds of fishing, not just fly fishing!

Materials are provided.

10 a.m.- 2:30 p.m., Outdoor Campus- West, 4130 Adventure Trail, Rapid City, 605-394-2310

Learn to buy healthy, affordable food choices for your family and how to prepare good healthy meals at home. Register online at www.loveinconline.com.

Dinner: 5:30 p.m. Class 6:15-7:15 p.m., Rapid Valley United Methodist Church, 5103 Longview Drive, 605-718-5683.

Sunday 18

Tuesday 27

Fly Tying Basics

Family Fun Day

Each Family Fun Day has a specific topic and typically includes a video and/or presentation, crafts, activities, a free take-home packet and a book drawing. Refreshments are also served. Reservations are encouraged. $2 per person, 2-4 p.m. Tri-State Museum, 415 5th Ave., Belle Fourche, 605-723-1200 Friday 23

Teen Book Club

Join the Teen Book Club for kids in grades 5 to 12.

2 p.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151 Saturday 24-25

Discovery Expedition: The Queen City’s Crown Why is Spearfish called Queen City? Three peaks surround the town, Spearfish Peak, Crow Peak and Lookout Mountain. Make a topographical crown of your own

Concert: Socks in the Frying Pan

Their dynamic vocal harmonies, virtuosic musical ability, and their onstage wit has captured and captivated audiences the world around. They are a multi-award winning trio from County Clare on the West coast of Ireland, the universal hub of Irish traditional music. One of the most sought after groups in Irish music today, the worldwide “Socks Invasion” continues.

7:30-9:30 p.m., 612 N. Main Street, Spearfish, 605-642-7973

Friday 30

Rush Hockey

Rapid City Rush vs Quad City Mallards 7:05 p.m., Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, 800-468-6463 Saturday 31

Rush Hockey

Rapid City Rush vs Quad City Mallards 7:05 p.m., Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, 800-468-6463

Saturday 31

Eggstravaganza

Grab your basket and hop down to Main Street Square in downtown Rapid City for Eggstravaganza.

This annual event, the Saturday before Easter, features the area’s biggest Easter Egg Hunt in Memorial Park, family-friendly activities and an opportunity to meet the Easter Bunny.

11-3 p.m., Main Street Square, 526 Main Street, Rapid City, 605-716-7979

Saturday 31

Discovery Expedition: Egg Dying Contest

Show your creative side and dye Easter eggs with the Journey Museum!

3:30-4 p.m., Journey Museum, 222 New York Street, Rapid City, 605-394-6923

More events on Black HillsParent.com

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Black Hills Parent

Rapid City Recycling Center’s

SPRING SATURDAY UPCYCLING CLASSES March Saturday 24, 9:30am – 11:30am Sun canvas’s to welcome in spring and Easter.

Decorate these beautiful blue canvases with paints and ribbon. Show your creative side by using pieces of ribbon and material to brighten any room. Call 605.355.3496 ext 1217 to register.

May Saturday 5, 9:30am – 11:30am The sun is shining, the temperatures are getting warmer and the gentle breeze is blowing.

What better way to watch the wind blow than by creating your very own windsock from tin cans and ribbon. Call 605.355.3496 ext 1217 to register.

June Saturday 9, 9:30am – 11:30am Let’s decorate a gallon tin can with some rope and paint and will plant some flowers in them.

What a wonderful way to celebrate summer.

Call 355-3496 ext 1217 to register.

Classes are offered at no charge and participants are invited to take their creation home with them. For registration, and full class descriptions, please go to RapidCityRecycles.org, call Beth-Anne at 605.939.8286, or message us on Facebook at Rapid City Recycles.

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CALENDAR APRIL

APRIL

and self-control for parents of 2-12 year olds. Register at www.loveinconline.com.

Dinner:5:30 p.m., Class:6:15- 8:15 p.m., Faith Lutheran Church, 17 Indiana Street, 605-718-5863.

Tuesdays beginning April 17

Tuesdays

CS First Coding Club

5 p.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151 Tuesdays

Little Owl Tuesdays Join in the fun and listen to favorite stories and songs with a library storyteller.

9-10:15 a.m., Rapid City Public Library, Meeting Room B, 300 6th Street, Rapid City Thursdays

Baby Bumblebee Thursdays

Bring your littles ones for a fun-filled story time led by one of our library storytellers.

9:30-10 a.m., Rapid City Public Library, Meeting Room B, 300 6th Street, Rapid City

Common Sense Parenting, Life INC East

(2 hrs for 6 weeks) Learn proven techniques in building good family relationships, improving behavior and self-control for parents of 2-12 year olds. Register at www.loveinconline.com.

Dinner: 5:30 p.m., Class at 6:15- 8:15 p.m., Rapid Valley United Methodist Church, 5103 Longview Drive, 605-718-5863.

Thursdays beginning April 26

Cooking for Real

Over the 4 weeks learn how to create nutritious meals using locally fresh foods and available resources by engaging your entire family. Register at www. loveinconline.com Snack time at 5:30 p.m., Class 6:15- 8:15 p.m., Creamery Building, 201 Main St. in Fork Real CafeĚ , 605-718-5683 Sunday 1

Easter

Fridays

Friday 6

10:30 a.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151

Play with Legos at the Hot Springs library!

2 p.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151

Preschool Storytime

Second Saturdays

Saturday Art Adventures

Free family-oriented art activities and tours of the galleries are fun and educational.

1-3 p.m., Dahl Arts Center, 713 7th Street, Rapid City, 605-394-4101 Tuesdays beginning April 10

Common Sense Parenting, Life INC South

(2 hrs for 6 weeks) Learn proven techniques in building good family relationships, improving behavior

Lego Play

Friday 6

Friday Skate Nights Family Skate Night.

5:30- 8:30 p.m., Spearfish Rec & Aquatics Center, 122 Recreation Lane, Spearfish, (605) 722-1430 Saturday 7

April Fools Un-Nature Hike

Hike our trails to solve nature riddles along the trail.

No registration required.

10 a.m.-3 p.m., Outdoor CampusWest, 4130 Adventure Trail, Rapid City, 605-394-2310

Saturday 7

Fishing Basics

Learn to cast, hook, land and identify different kinds of fish.

Class every hour.

10 a.m.-3 p.m., Outdoor CampusWest, 4130 Adventure Trail, Rapid City, 605-394-2310 Sunday 8

PACRC Family Series: Hoop Dancer

Kevin Locke is a world famous visionary Hoop Dancer, preeminent player of the Indigenous Northern Plains flute, traditional storyteller, cultural ambassador, recording artist and educator.

2- 3 p.m., Performing Arts Center, 601 Columbus St., Rapid City, 605-394-1786 Sunday 8

Concert: Glenn Miller Orchestra

Unique sounds featuring woodwinds in a special harmonic arrangement, plus the singing group: the Modernaires.

7:30 p.m., Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, 605-394-4115 Wednesday 11

Mechanical Engineering: 3-D Printing

Hands-on demonstrations with Ph.D. level faculty members.

These workshops will include three content areas: 3-D Printing, Circuits and Soldering, and Blacksmithing and Casting.

Pre-registration required.

Grades: 6-8, 4:30- 6:30 p.m.

SDSMT, 501 E. Saint Joseph Street, 605-394-1261 Sunday 15

Family Fun Day

Each Family Fun Day has a specific topic and typically includes a video and/or presentation, crafts, activities, a free take-home packet and a book drawing. Refreshments available. Reservations are encouraged. $2 per person, 2-4 p.m. Tri-State Museum, 415 5th Ave., Belle Fourche, 605-723-1200

Wednesday 18

Mechanical Engineering: 3-D Printing

Hands-on demonstrations with Ph.D. level faculty members.

These workshops will include three content areas: 3-D Printing, Circuits and Soldering, and Blacksmithing and Casting.

Pre-registration required.

Grades 9-12, 4:30- 6:30 p.m.

SDSMT, 501 E. Saint Joseph Street, 605-394-1261 Friday 18

Campfire Building

Learn various ways of starting campfires. Dress to go outside and practice. Learn how to make simple fire starters that could save your life in an emergency. Bonus s’mores over the coals!

6:30-8 p.m., Outdoor CampusWest, 4130 Adventure Trail, Rapid City, 605-394-2310 Friday 20

Kids Movie at the Library

Come to the library and watch a school-age children movie. Snacks are served, but bring a drink.

2 p.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151 Friday 20

Outdoor Survival Skills

Learn basic skills to help you survive an unexpected overnight stay in the Black Hills. Dress to go outside to practice shelter building, campfire building techniques, and other fun survival skills.

6:30-8:30 p.m., Outdoor CampusWest, 4130 Adventure Trail, Rapid City, 605-394-2310 Friday 20

3rd Annual Rapid City Dark Sky Festival

Take your family and explore the Lakota Universe with Craig Howe and view planets, stars and moons through telescopes with the Black Hills Astronomical Society and SD Space Grant Consortium.

7-9 p.m., Main Street Square, 526 Main Street, Rapid City

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Dodge Ball, Dunk Zone, Tot Time, Building Rentals and Corporate Events

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IT’S HERE! Browse offers & purchase online at blackhillscoupons.com

Books also available for purchase at Evergreen Media, 329 Main Street, Ste. 1, Rapid City

Black Hills Parent

59

CALENDAR APRIL MAY

Saturday 28

APRIL

Saturday 21

National Parks Fee Free For First Day of National Park Week

Girls Leadership Workshop (Grades 9-12)

Join us in empowering the young women in our community through a hands-on workshop where they will discover their leadership style, how to support their ideas and learn to lead with confidence using the Girls With Ideas leadership curriculum.

10 a.m.- 12 p.m., SDSMT, 501 E. Saint Joseph Street, 605-394-1261

Get into national parks, such as Custer State Park, for free!

T-shirt included with full registration.

8:15 a.m. check-in, 9 a.m. start, Jorgensen Park, 2351 N. Canyon St., Spearfish, 605-722-1430

This children’s afternoon tea party will be filled with activities, games, tea time, snacks, and Alice and the Mad Hatter themselves! We’ll have a photo area set-up to take fun pictures, too. Tea time attire is encouraged but not required. $12, 1-3:30 p.m., Holiday Inn Express & Convention Center, 2721 Lazelle St., Sturgis Friday 27

Teen Book Club

Join the Teen Book Club for kids in grades 5 to 12.

2 p.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151 Friday 27-29

23rd Annual YFS Kids Fair

Find face painting, inflatable attractions, a giant sand box, and dozens of booths and this exciting, family-friendly event.

(Fri & Sat) 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (Sun) noon-4 p.m., Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 N. Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, 605-342-4195

Free family-oriented art activities and tours of the galleries are fun and educational.

1-3 p.m., Dahl Arts Center, 713 7th Street, Rapid City, 605-394-4101

Come to the library and watch a school-age children movie. Snacks are served, but bring a drink.

2 p.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151

Friday 4

Lego Play

Play with Legos at the Hot Springs library!

2 p.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151

Friday Skate Nights

Bunny Run

Mad Hatter Tea Party

Friday 18

Saturday Art Adventures

Friday 4

Saturday 21

Sunday 22

Second Saturdays

MAY

Family Skate Night.

5:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m., Lookout Room Spearfish Rec & Aquatics Center, 122 Recreation Lane, Spearfish, (605) 722-1430 Friday 4-5, 11-12, 18-19

Tuesdays

CS First Coding Club

5 p.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151 Tuesdays

Little Owl Tuesdays

Join in the fun and listen to favorite stories and songs with a library storyteller.

9-10:15 a.m., Rapid City Public Library, Meeting Room B, 300 6th Street, Rapid City Thursdays

Baby Bumblebee Thursdays

Bring your littles ones for a funfilled story time led by one of our library storytellers.

9:30-10 a.m., Rapid City Public Library, Meeting Room B, 300 6th Street, Rapid City Fridays

Preschool Story Time

10:30 a.m., Hot Springs Public Library, 2005 Library Drive, Hot Springs, 605-745-3151

A Comedy in the Studio Theater: Harvey

Elwood P. Dowd is the most pleasant and charming man you’ll ever meet. And his best friend is pretty nice too, if you like six-foot tall invisible rabbits.

7:30 p.m., Black Hills Community Theatre, 601 Columbus St., Rapid City, 605-394-1787 Saturday 5

Fishing Basics

Learn to cast, hook, land and identify different kinds of fish.

10 a.m.-noon, Outdoor CampusWest, 4130 Adventure Trail, Rapid City, 605-394-2310

Sunday 13

1880 Train Mother’s Day Express Treat your mother to a unique and unforgettable steam train ride through the beautiful Black Hills. Passengers will also enjoy a 45-minute layover in Keystone, giving them a chance to shop. Enjoy assigned seating on the round-trip train ride, a cupcake, bottled water and live entertainment.

222 Railroad Avenue, Hill City, 605-574-2222

Kids Movie at the Library

Friday 18

Campfire Cooking

Learn fun easy recipes to share at a campfire with adults or children.

Main dishes, snacks and desserts!

All materials provided.

6:30-8 p.m., Outdoor CampusWest, 4130 Adventure Trail, Rapid City, 605-394-2310 Friday 18-20

Open House Weekend

Celebrate the beginning of another summer season with the annual Open House Weekend. Guests can visit the parks for free and can fish without a license! Camping fees still apply.

Custer State Park, 605-255-4464 Sunday 20

Family Fun Day

Enjoy a presentation, crafts, activities, a free take-home packet and a book drawing.

Refreshments are also served.

Reservations are encouraged. $2 per person, 2-4 p.m. Tri-State Museum, 415 5th Ave., Belle Fourche, 605-723-1200 Friday 25

First of the Year Mount Rushmore Evening Lighting Ceremony

The Evening Lighting Ceremony at Mount Rushmore National Memorial is held beginning the Friday before Memorial Day (May 25) to September 30 each year.

9 p.m., 13000 SD-244, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Keystone, 605-574-2523 Saturday 26

Storybook Island Opening Day

9 a.m.-7 p.m., Storybook Island, 1301 Sheridan Lake Rd., Rapid City

COMMUNITY CALENDAR BROUGHT TO YOU BY SOUTH DAKOTA PUBLIC BROADCASTING SDPB.ORG 60

Black Hills Parent

Where Art & Science Meet to Optimize Your Oral Health.

605.348.0831 • Fibonacci-Dental.com 2800 Jackson Blvd. Suite 9 • Rapid City Banana Bunch Children’s Learning Center A place to Imagine. A place to Explore.

A place to GROW!

Year Round Programs 6 Weeks - 12 Years Old • A Starting Strong Provider • Accepts Child Care Assistance • Summer Day Camps for School Age Licensed

Hours: M-F 6:00am - 6:30pm

605-341-2333

924 E St Patrick St • Rapid City

605-342-2636 2101 Cambell Street Rapid City, SD 57701

Online.

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The University of South Dakota offers remarkably affordable, accredited online undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Addiction Studies

Kinesiology and Sport Management

Business Education Health Sciences

Nursing Social Work And Many More.

Named one of

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by U.S. News

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With more than

40 online program options — we have a program for you.

WE’RE A FAMILY PLACE! Hands-on fun, lots to see and we’re FREE!

Spring Hours, Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm 415 Fifth Avenue in Belle Fourche

www.usd.edu/online • cde@usd.edu • 800-233-7937

Black Hills Parent

61

COLUMN GENERATIONS

“In the spring, I get to play water balloons! I get to fill them up with the sprinkler and put it in the slingshot.

I fire it into the street and it splashes and explodes. I ride my bike, too. It’s pretty fast.”

MADDOX MCKIE, AGE 5

“Spring is the best time to get organized and clean things out – freshen up! I love to plant flowers and spend time with family out at the cabin, especially at Easter when the kids are hunting for eggs or watching the baby animals.”

KRISTOL MCKIE, GRANDMA

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SPRING? 62

Black Hills Parent

Maddox and his grandma Kristol McKie, a Rapid City native who has served on several nonprofit board of directors – currently the President of the Performing Arts Center of Rapid City – share their thoughts on the season with Black Hills Parent magazine.

ENTER TO WIN YOUR VERY OWN

BIRTHDAY BASH! GO TO

WATIKIWATERPARK.com/birthdaygiveaway ENTER BY MAY 31, 2018

1314 NORTH ELK VALE ROAD • RAPID CITY, SD 57703 866.WATIKI.FUN • www.WATIKIWATERPARK.com Party valid for 8 guests. Enter by May 31, 2018. One entry per person. Must be 18 years of age or older to enter. Management reserves all rights. Party must be booked by June 15, 2018. See full contest rules and details at WaTikiWaterpark.com

Positive and uplifting, playing the right song at the right time. We are your family’s station for encouragement.

1853 Fountain Plaza Dr., Rapid City, SD 57702 Power Line: (605)399-1071

Listen online at kslt.com

Gifts, Gear & Clothes

^

a nd Toddler

“Seriously. What an amazing store. We took the long way home from our rental cabin in Hill City to make a quick stop in Rapid City before heading home to Denver and glad we did! An amazing store to say the least.

We bought a book and a binky but could’ve bought so much more.

We have tons of baby boutiques in Denver but this has to be at the top of the list of all the ones we’ve been to. Check it out!”

Dan P. from Denver, CO

1

Choose from Nuna’s PIPA, RAVA, SENA, ZAAZ, TAVO Travel Systems and MIXX. Save when you shop local!

2

4 5

3

DIAMOND VOGEL

Main St

3rd St

4. NUNA RAVA CONVERTIBLE CAR SEAT is uncomplicated, un-fussy and exceeds American safety standards to give you peace of mind. It offers unique and innovative features that allows it to be used from 5 to 65 lbs. $449.95

5. NUNA PIPA INFANT CAR SEAT is style and safety.

Thanks to the clever and fashionable infant car seat, both of these essentials are combined; providing ultimate comfort and protection for little lives, every which way you may decide to take them in. $299.95

4th St

2. PERSONALIZED NAME PUZZLES encourage logic abilities, fine motor skills, letter recognition, and name spelling with this fun puzzle. $29.99.

3.KICKEE PANTS are known for their butter soft baby rompers, footies, and kid pajamas. Sized newborn to 8T. Styles update 6 times per year. $34 and up.

THE LITTLE PRINT SHOP

1. MODERN NURSERY GLIDER with ultra-durable solid wood construction and a long, smooth gliding motion for ultimate relaxation. Options offer ottoman, multi-position mechanism and recline.

Available in white or espresso wood, fabric in dark grey, light grey and beige. $460-$780.

Saint Joseph St

329 Main Street | Rapid City | 605.343.8722 | shopkicksandgiggles.com

Healthy skin at every age.

The Skin Institute at Rapid City Medical Center is the largest board certified group of dermatologists in the region specializing in complete skin care for your entire family.

Now Serving Rapid City, Hot Springs & Spearfish General, Pediatric, Surgical & Cosmetic Dermatology

Melody Eide, MD FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist

Briana Hill, MD FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist

Jason Noble, MD FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist

Tamara Poling, MD FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist

Lycia Scott-Thornburg, MD FAAD Board Certified Dermatologist

Robert Sage, MD FAAD Fellowship Trained Mohs Surgeon

Gregory Wittenberg, MD FAAD Fellowship Trained Mohs Surgeon

,LLP

(605) 721.DERM (3376) www.rapidcitymedicalcenter.com/Dermatology

Jessica Rachetto, PA-C

Lyndsi Slusarski, PA-C