FACES of the Black Hills 2023

WHO ARE THE FACES OF THE BLACK HILLS

We’re pleased to present, for the first time, FACES of the Black Hills. From heart doctors to hot tubs, this annual publication will serve to connect the Black Hills community with local industry experts.

Exclusive is the key word in this magazine. Only one face is featured per industry category.

These businesses were hand-selected by my team and me to make sure that only the most legitimate representatives of each industry were included in FACES of the Black Hills.

The format of this publication is special. In publishing, we call this type of content native advertising. In this style of content, businesses will work with photographers, writers and designers to develop content that is useful and worthwhile to the reader.

There are countless stories to tell in the Black Hills. This region is truly a wonderful place to live and do business. From scenic views and outdoor fun, the Black Hills are a haven. But the real magic of the Hills is the people.

I hope that as you read our new magazine, you feel as thankful as I do to live in the Black Hills. The faces that you meet in these pages are ready, willing and able to serve you and your family.

FACES OF EVERGREEN MEDIA

Rick DenHerder, Owner, Publisher. Evergreen Media

Publisher Rick DenHerder

Senior Editor Stephen Simpson

Senior Designer Mike Mazzarella

VP of Sales and Growth Ruth Rossbach

Photographer Jesse Brown Nelson

Creative Director John Edwards

Production Coordinator Dolsee Davenport

Digital Media Director Billie Becker

DEVELOPMENT

“We talk about things like the diversification of taxes and capital spending and consumer expenditures and economic data, but at the end of the day, it goes back to the question of whether or not someone has a job. Does someone have a house? If they have a family, can they support them?”

Tom Johnson is the CEO and President of Elevate Rapid City. He and his team deal with a lot of high level economic concepts while facilitating the sustainable growth of Rapid City and the surrounding areas. But for Tom and his team, all the numbers and all the economic jargon goes back to people.

For a lot of the public, they associate

Elevate with large, national companies coming to the region. “But most of our work is spent with companies that are here right now,” Tom explains. “Whether that’s a downtown facade loan or a child care loan or helping a local tech company with incubator space, we’re committed to elevating the region for all.”

Tom says that his experiences as a child, in part, drive his work ethic today. Tom’s dad worked in oil in the mid-1980s. That industry cratered then, and Tom’s dad lost his job because of circumstances that were entirely out of his control. “After that, the bank came in and foreclosed on the house.

So we had to pack up in the middle of the night and move out and go.”

Tom strives now to prevent moments like this from happening. Tom reflects, “By doing this work, is it possible to stop something like this from happening to another kid?” Tom and his team are going to continue to do their best and diligently work to find out.

Tom Johnson

ORTHOPEDICS

MONUMENT HEALTH

The surgeons and providers at Monument Health Orthopedics are committed to helping you regain the quality of life that you’ve lost because of injury, arthritis or joint wear and tear. Their comprehensive musculoskeletal services will move you from diagnosis to treatment, recovery and beyond. At Monument Health, you’ll receive top-quality care by board-certified orthopedic surgeons and a comprehensive team of trained orthopedic specialists.

Monument Health Orthopedics has

been providing this kind of life-changing care for over a quarter century. Offering services in Rapid City at Monument Health Orthopedic & Specialty Hospital, in Spearfish at Monument Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Clinic and in Gillette, Wyo., at Monument Health Gillette Clinic. Richard Little, M.D., is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with Monument Health Orthopedics who practices in Spearfish. He explained, “After 25 years of practice, we’re confident in

what we do. We love our communities and want to be a part of the healing process. We are proud to offer a fast track of comprehensive care with services such as ROSA robotic surgical assist, and sameday total joint replacement. Both focus on getting you back home again in a timely manner.”

ROSA Knee System enables surgeons to carry out knee replacement procedures with greater precision and a higher standard of care during knee replacement surgery.

Rapid City | Spearfish | Gillette

Monument Health Orthopedics was the first in the area to offer this kind of orthopedic robotic technology and are experts in the field.

Dr. Little and the rest of the orthopedics team see orthopedics and sports medicine as transformative — helping patients return to what they love most in their lives. Whether you’ve suffered from a torn ACL, torn a rotator cuff, injured your hip, suffer from arthritis or carpal tunnel, sprained your ankle or torn a ligament, you want to

know you’re receiving the best care possible — and you want to know that you’re going to be able to get back to what you love with reduced or eliminated pain as soon as possible. “Getting a patient back to where they were, or making them better than they were from a mobility standpoint is what drives us,” said Dr. Little.

If mobility or pain issues are limiting what you can do, let the orthopedics team at Monument Health assess your needs and see what they can do to help you

regain the quality of life that you’ve lost. Their comprehensive services can help you return to the activities you love with greater mobility and freedom from pain.

monument.health/orthopedics

Fantasizing about the perfectly decked out wedding party? Or are you searching for “The Dress?” Frankie Stone and her team at Audra’s Bridal Gallery will pull out all the stops to make sure the dresses and suits at your wedding or other special occasion look and feel precisely how you envision them.

“It was definitely my aha moment — this is what I wanted to do,” Frankie Stone, Owner and Manager of Audra’s Bridal Gallery, shares.

Frankie is excited for the future of her bridal gallery, located in downtown Rapid City.

Frankie became owner of the award-winning Audra’s in 2021 after working there for nearly a decade.

Frankie credits much of Audra’s reputation as the Black Hills’ preferred wedding wear destination to two things. “What I was taught when I first started is that the customer is absolutely number one,” she explains. “When a customer comes in, if they’re not finding what they like, we exhaust all realms of our resources before we say no. We hate saying no.”

The other thing Frankie credits to Audra’s success is her team. “I have a great staff who are reliable and they are just amazing to work with. We all vibe really well. We’re a very close family,” Frankie says.

And this combination of customer service and a caring environment has produced a loyal following for Audra’s. “We have customers who continue to come back to us,” Frankie says. New customers are discovering what many already know about Audra’s — this bridal gallery exists to make sure your wedding or other formal event is exactly what you want it to be.

Frankie champions this customer-first mentality: “Customers are what keeps us alive. So what we strive to do is ultimate customer service. We try to make it the best experience possible throughout the entire process.”

601 St Joseph St Rapid City, SD 57701

audrasbridalgallery.com

Frankie Stone

SPECIALTY

SCHEELS

JC Joyce

Organizations frequently talk about culture, but few places live out this crucial concept like Scheels.

JC Joyce is the Store Leader and a Partner at Scheels in Rapid City. JC’s title offers some insight about the culture at Scheels. “We’re 100 percent employee owned. We don’t have shareholders other than the associates at Scheels,” she says.

Because of this, Scheels employees bring more to the table. “We all make better decisions because we have skin in the game,” she says. This ownership keeps the Scheels team invested and focused on serving their customers. “We do our best to honor every single

customer who walks through the door.”

This emphasis on service championed by JC and her team has deep roots. The story of the Scheels experience began in 1902. Friedrich A. Scheele, a German immigrant, used the profits from his first potato harvest in Minnesota to make a downpayment on a small hardware store. Through a few decades and generations, this humble store grew and expanded into multiple locations and states.

The Scheels in Rapid City has over 80 specialty shops within its walls with a knowledgeable team accompanying each department. “The associates study a lot to be experts in their areas,” shares JC.

One final element sets the Scheels team apart. “One of our main objectives is to give back to our community,” JC says. “We’re proud that a lot of our leaders serve on boards in the community and we give a lot of our dollars back to the community through United Way and other partner organizations.”

More than just a place to buy clothing and sporting goods, Scheels is a place to find experts who care about their customers and their community.

1225 Eglin

GENERAL/FAMILY DENTISTRY

M. Carpenter, DDS CARPENTER DENTAL

“We give patients a profound and transformative feeling of joy and health, every time they see themselves smile,” says Dr. Chad Carpenter. This has been the mission of Carpenter Dental since 2005, and Dr. Chad Carpenter, Dr. Jaicee Rieman, Dr. Andrew Thorsen and the entire Carpenter Dental team work to make this happen each and every day.

For the Carpenter Dental team, their mission isn’t just confined to their clinic. The Carpenter Dental team is working to improve the dental health of patients all over the region, including underserved populations. One such way the Carpenter

team carries out this vision is by serving underserved communities. Dr. Carpenter and his team recently offered their expertise to the Saint Francis Dental Mission on the Rosebud Reservation. “We love to give back to the community and connect with the underserved,” Dr. Carpenter shares. The Carpenter Dental team makes regular trips to Rosebud and other underserved places to spread the benefits of optimal dental health to as many people in the community as they can.

Supporting local charities and kids sports programs is part and parcel to Carpenter Dental’s mission to connect meaningfully with the Black Hills region. Carpenter Dental

supports Cornerstone Rescue Mission, Post 22, Post 320, Young Life, Star of the West Soccer Fields, Ateyapi Program Rural Health Initiative Project and myriad other worthy organizations.

Carpenter Dental has the top doctors, the team and the technology to help alleviate almost any dental problem. Whether you want to look and feel your best or just stay healthy and maintain your teeth for life, the team at Carpenter Dental is ready to serve you at the highest level possible.

5610 Bendt Dr Rapid City, SD 57702 carpenterdental.net

Chad

HIGHER EDUCATION

SOUTH DAKOTA SCHOOL OF MINES & TECHNOLOGY

Many of the faces spotlighted in this magazine credit their trajectory towards success to the time they spent studying at South Dakota Mines. The next generation of Mines grads will be no different. The current student body is already doing some incredible work.

In 2020, in the wake of some raciallycharged tragedies, a handful of Mines students, including Kyante Christian, thought it was high time that the students on campus started having some difficult conversations.

Instead of putting up barriers, Kyante and other students founded the Hardrocker Ally Association, and started connecting with

the next generation. “If we can have some impact on the youth within this community, maybe we can begin to change people’s minds,” Kyante says.

The Hardrocker Ally Association has been providing sports camps scholarships, athletic gear and other hand-ups to at-risk youth. But, as Kyante points out, “The pride and joy of the Association is its youth outreach.”

Athletes from Mines partner with the Rapid City Police Department and are matched with at-risk students. And this strategy is showing some measurable results.

BayLee Danby, Youth and Family

Navigator for the RCPD, says, “The reports of runaway juveniles was stuck at 15. The last report that I ran, we only had eight. The majority of those that came off the list were ones that the Ally Association had been working with for the past six months.”

Chief of Police, Don Hedrick, says, “We’re fortunate to have such upstanding and open-minded young leadership emerging from Mines. Their efforts are to be highly commended.”

The Hardrocker Ally Association

HOSPICE

MONUMENT HEALTH

“Monument Health has a long history as a resource for families facing one of their most difficult moments,” said Hospice Director, Michelle Sieveke. “We have been making a difference in the Black Hills for generations.”

In 2007, the hospice program proudly partnered with the Rapid City community to open the only hospice house in western South Dakota. Although the facility is minutes away from Monument Health Rapid City Hospital, the views that can be enjoyed from each of the 12 private rooms are reminiscent of idyllic Black Hills scenery.

The Home+ Hospice team prepares an individualized care plan that may include

pain & symptom relief, personal care, spiritual support and counseling for you and your family. For patients at home, family and loved ones provide most of the handson care. Hospice staff visit regularly and are always available to answer questions.

Monument Health provides in-home Hospice care through the Black Hills area. You can receive hospice care in your home, a nursing home, assisted living facility and the Home+ Hospice House.

Hospice care extends to every aspect of a person’s life — including their family. “Families and caregivers create a special bond,” Michelle explained. That bond

continues following the passing of a loved one, as family members are eligible for up to 12 months of grief support from Monument Health caregivers.

Rapid City

ALL THINGS LAW: GROWING WITH THE COMMUNITY

GUNDERSON, PALMER, NELSON & ASHMORE, LLP Jason Smiley

Disputes are common for businesses. Most of the time, two groups are able to hash conflicts out and move on. Sometimes, though, a business may encounter a dispute that can’t be resolved that easily. In those moments, experienced counsel is integral to a successful outcome.

Jason Smiley is a partner at GPNA. His 19 years of corporate litigation experience has given him an unparalleled understanding of Black Hills businesses and the law.

Jason and the other attorneys at GPNA take the weight of their clients’ issues seriously. “Experience in litigation is so important,” Jason says. “We tell our clients

what they need to hear; not just what they want to hear.”

That allegiance to the truth is a common trait of all GPNA attorneys. “Having the experience and courage to tell the truth is how we navigate our clients to their best outcomes,” Jason says. “Sometimes that’ll mean going to trial. Sometimes that’ll mean seriously looking at a settlement.”

The team at GPNA combines this unwavering commitment to the truth with an extreme level of expertise. “The beauty of a firm with over 20 attorneys is we get the opportunity to specialize and become really good in specific areas,” Jason explains.

“We’re able to find our niches and share our expertise in certain areas of South Dakota law.”

GPNA’s clients can always expect this unique combination of specialized legal expertise and a courageous commitment to the truth. “And for a lot of businesses who find themselves in litigation,” Jason says, “that can mean the difference between going out of business or not.”

The Historic Elks Building 506 6th St Rapid City, SD 57701 gpna.com

DANCE STUDIO

PRIMA SCHOOL OF

Christy Remington

Christy Remington, Owner and Director of Prima School of Dancing, and her team are passionate about their students. “We don’t take a single student for granted,” she shares. “We are thankful for each dancer who chooses to be a part of our Prima family.”

Prima has a rich history. Genevieve Silver started training young dancers at the Rapid City YMCA 88 years ago. Her daughter, Terri, took leadership of the studio in 1975 and moved Prima to its current location on Sturgis Road.

Providing outstanding service of any kind for nearly a century is an impressive feat.

Christy points to “love and opportunity” as

DANCING

the source of a lot of the staying power of Prima. “Our love for our students and our commitment to continue in our growth as teachers to better serve our students and families is at the core of who we are,” she says.

Christy stepped into her role as Prima’s Owner and Director in 2003. Christy has grown the studio over the last 19 years from one studio room to four and has added a new rehearsal studio.

“Students come for the reputation for excellence in dance in our community,” says Christy. The students of Prima certainly discover a commitment to

excellence, but excellence extends into something more than dance. “We don’t just want our students to thrive in dance; we want them to thrive in life,” Christy says.

Prima’s students are, first and foremost, cared for. And from this place of heart, successful dancers are able to thrive. Christy explains, “Prima is a place to belong. It’s a place where students and teachers can express themselves artistically and grow as dancers and, just as importantly, as people.”

3401 Sturgis Rd Rapid City, SD 57702 primadancing.com

SPA & SALON

MYSTIQUE EDGE

Lori Eggersgluess

Lori Eggersgluess always knew she wanted to be a hairstylist. When this Sturgis native was barely a teenager, she purchased a book about cutting hair, and, at just 14, Lori got her first client — her little sister.

Lori pursued her calling, and after styling hair professionally for a few years, she felt like it was time to take her passion to the next level. “I was having lunch with my dad, and we were talking about how I was ready for a change,” Lori says. “My dad then said to me, ‘I have a little extra money in my pocket; how about you open your own salon?’”

Following that encouragement, Lori recruited her friend, Vicki, and they started to design a special salon. The result of that planning was Mystique Edge, a place where anyone is welcomed to find a place to escape.

Lori’s salon started with five people, but the team didn’t stay that size for long. With the help of Melanie Ogle, the team grew and a spa was added to the salon. Today, the Mystique Edge team has around 35 people. “We pride ourselves on having a culture where everyone on the team really looks out for each other,” Lori says.

Through a lot of love and support, Lori

has grown and thrived for 23 years. “Every day I am thankful to my family and friends for helping build this dream,” Lori shares. “My dad, Tony, and my mom, Geri — I miss her every day — have always been my biggest supporters and encouragers.”

318 Mt Rushmore Rd E Rapid City, SD 57701 mystiqueedge.com

For athletes in the region, Monument Health is the leading partner when it comes to sports medicine. Monument Health has the area’s largest comprehensive sports medicine program, employing 17 athletic trainers, seven performance coaches in 10 area high schools and universities, eight orthopedic surgeons, four fellowshiptrained sports medicine physicians and 12 advanced practice providers specializing in orthopedics and sports medicine.

Monument Health Sports Medicine

is a premier partner of Black Hills State University, Chadron State College, South Dakota Mines, Rapid City Marshals Indoor Football, Rodeo Rapid City, Black Hills Roundup, Days of ‘76 Rodeo, Spearfish Sasquatch Baseball, South Dakota High School Regional and Finals Rodeos, Lakota Nation Invitational, Black Hills Nationals Wrestling Tournament and Leading Ladies Marathon, just to name a few.

Monument Health’s comprehensive care model assists athletes before they even

play the game. Before events, athletes can schedule physicals and screenings to make sure they are ready to safely compete.

During the course of a game or event, Monument Health sports medicine sideline professionals are there to immediately evaluate and diagnose injuries.

When injuries do occur, sports medicine physicians and orthopedic surgeons work to determine the best course of treatment. Physical and occupational therapists work with providers to develop treatment

Belle Fourche | Custer | Deadwood | Hill City | Spearfish | Rapid City | Hulett | Sundance | Upton | Chadron

plans and courses of action for recovery. Therapists then work with strength and conditioning coaches, as well as athletic trainers, to build strength and help athletes get ready to compete again.

Monument Health’s athletic trainers’ expertise includes everything from effectively treating minor sprains and severe head and neck injuries to diagnosing minor illnesses and heat stroke. They combine hands-on work with patient education to prevent injury and re-injury.

Monument Health’s performance coaches are responsible for establishing and maintaining the performance programs for all sports, with the three major goals of improving athletic performance, reducing athletic injuries and teaching lifelong fitness and movement skills. Faith Wilson, Performance Coach for Monument Health Sports Performance Institute and South Dakota Mines said, “I love being able to help our athletes be stronger so they can perform at a higher level in their sport.”

Monument Health therapists offer some of the most advanced therapy services available, with equipment and computer programs that aid in diagnosing and treating sports injuries. Monument Health offers rehabilitation in Belle Fourche, Custer, Deadwood, Sturgis, Spearfish and Rapid City. FACES

monument.health/sportsmedicine

MUSEUM AND RESEARCH FACILITY

MAMMOTH SITE OF HOT SPRINGS, SD, INC.

Presston Gabel and Dr. Jim Mead

The Mammoth Site, discovered in 1974 in Hot Springs, stewards the largest concentration of Columbian mammoth remains on the planet. The resulting facility is a fascinating stop for tourists and other visitors. But the mission of the Mammoth Site goes well beyond capturing the imaginations of travelers.

The Mammoth Site is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, so the work that is being conducted there is held to a higher research standard. “We’re first and foremost an educational and research facility,” explains Presston Gabel, COO of the Mammoth Site.

Presston also explains that the research of the Mammoth Site isn’t just restricted to the incredible fossil deposit discovered in Hot Springs. In an effort to understand more about the Ice Age, the researchers at the Mammoth Site study geological and paleontological sites all over North America.

But what’s the practical value in knowing more about the Ice Age? Dr. Jim Mead, Director of Research at the Mammoth Site, explains one concrete example: “We and colleagues have measured thousands of heel bones from ancient bison from all across North America. What we’ve discovered is that the warmer the temperature gets, the

smaller bison become.” This phenomenon has some very practical implications for bison ranchers today — a smaller bison might mean less profit.

That’s just one example of the value that the Mammoth Site is providing, not just for paleontology, but for applications all over the world. As Dr. Mead says, “We look at the past to see what may potentially happen tomorrow.” And that idea has value in every sector of life.

Sometimes, you don’t know a dream until it happens. That’s the story of Besler’s Cadillac Ranch, one of the most remarkable places in the Black Hills to gather and celebrate.

Josh Besler’s parents purchased a ranch located in Saint Onge in 2003 to be closer to his sister. The only plans they had for the property was to enjoy it and host a handful of small gatherings. “They just thought this could be a place to throw a few barn dances,” says Josh, the Manager at Besler’s. “And then my cousin was here visiting the ranch and she asked if she could get married here across the river.”

After that, word spread about this special place and Besler’s became the popular wedding and event venue it is today. “We’ll be celebrating 20 years in business with the ranch next year,” says Alison Besler, Josh’s wife and Venue Director.

Alison makes sure that credit is given where credit is due: “There’s three Besler families that live and work here and it takes all of us.” And others make this beautiful venue what it is, too. “We couldn’t do it without Mole, our gardener,” says Alison. “Or our bar staff. They’re phenomenal.”

Besler’s is one of those magical places in the Black Hills that draws people in to relax and celebrate. A river that’s worthy of a Hollywood wide shot winds through the property. And with many of the original and historical buildings and features still intact, this venue is being sought out by people wanting to celebrate from not only all over the state and the country, but the world.

Josh says, “My parents are really the ones with this dream. I mean, it’s turned into their dream; they didn’t plan it, but it became their dream.” 19314 Helmer Rd St Onge, SD 57779

Alison and Josh Besler

SOFTWARE AS A SERVICE

The founders of Property Meld, David Kingman and Ray Hespen, two talented engineers who attended South Dakota Mines, developed a software solution to improve property management’s maintenance experience. They started as a remote company, with team members across the U.S., but in 2018 they were presented with the opportunity to put some roots back in the Black Hills.

The Black Hills are developing some of the nation’s finest minds in engineering and science. Still, most opportunities awaiting these capable people are out of state. The same was true for Ray, who found himself working and renting across the country, but if he had the opportunity to stay, he would have.

Joining the Ascent Innovation Tech Incubator, the two founders focused on developing and retaining great local talent. Property Meld became a beacon, drawing talent who once had to leave the area due to a lack of opportunity.

Fast forward, and Property Meld has become the number one platform for property management in North America — from its headquarters in downtown Rapid City. “This was a bold move for Ray and David; everyone from advisors to early investors wondered why we weren’t in San Francisco, San Antonio, or Austin,” explains Madison Zimmerman, Director of Marketing.

The future of Property Meld is even more exciting than its thrilling inception narrative. “We have monumental growth plans for 2023 that continue our focus on developing and growing talent in this beautiful place we call home, all with the mission to impact lives across North America with a delightful maintenance experience,” says Autumn Hughes, Director of People.

For more information about Property Meld and career opportunities, visit PropertyMeld.com

406 St Joseph St Rapid City, SD 57701 propertymeld.com

Madison Zimmerman and Autumn Hughes

PROPERTY MELD

PLASTIC SURGERY

MONUMENT HEALTH Rapid City

Hunter Moyer, M.D., is a board-certified Plastic Surgeon from Atlanta, Ga. with more than 20 years of experience. Dr. Moyer has lectured nationally and internationally on cosmetic and reconstructive surgical techniques, and he continues to hold clinical and research faculty positions.

Dr. Moyer’s research has led to multiple patents, three startup companies and a PSF Shark Tank Award. He is trained in the wide breadth of plastic surgery with a focus in cosmetic surgery of the face, breast and body. He also has a passion for cancer reconstruction and is skilled in the latest free flap techniques.

“Whether you want to improve your skin tone, reduce the presence of a scar, change the shape of your breasts, improve your belly bulge or have a rejuvenating body sculpting session, we have the progressive techniques and minimallyinvasive options to help you achieve your desired look,” explained Dr. Moyer. Monument Health Plastic Surgery offers the most advanced plastic surgery services and sophisticated technology available in western South Dakota.

In addition to Dr. Moyer, the Monument Health Plastic Surgery team includes Ashley Anziano, PA-C and Cassidy Kotelman, PA-C.

UNITED WAY OF THE BLACK HILLS

Jamie Toennies

There’s a reason that the United Way of the Black Hills has become the charity of choice for so many locals. Donors and nonprofit partners alike have discovered the trustworthiness and effectiveness of UWBH.

The United Way of the Black Hills uses a tried and true process to distribute funds to local nonprofits that are doing the most good. “People trust that process,” says Jamie Toennies, Executive Director. “The nonprofits, too, continue to work with us because they see us as a partner and not competition. We are all working towards the same goals for our community as a whole. We are wholeheartedly collaborative.”

UWBH’s strategy in directing funds is indeed proven, but it’s always being refined. In 2019, Jamie and her team commissioned a formal study to pinpoint the most pressing needs of the Black Hills. The needs they found were consistent throughout each Black Hills community.

The UWBH team and their partner organizations went to work to address the needs revealed from the study. “One of the things that we always point out is that no one organization can solve these complex issues alone,” Jamie explains. “We bring all of the different partners to the table. We’re working with more than 50 different

nonprofits and local governments and many others to all come together to address these needs.”

With this mix of collaboration and a locally-focused approach to problemsolving, Jamie and the rest of the United Way of the Black Hills team hope to put a permanent end to some of the most prevalent challenges facing the Black Hills.

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

DAKOTA DENTAL 4 KIDS

Dr. Paul Stevens

“People deserve to be free of pain and enjoy positive dental experiences. There is no population more deserving of this than children,” says Dr. Paul Stevens. He’s a board-certified pediatric dentist. He and the rest of the team at Dakota Dental 4 Kids have no doubt that they’re making a difference in the community.

DD4K serves a specialized and underserved group — kids. “The dental needs of kids are very different from the needs of adults,” explains Dr. Stevens. “Sure, kids experience decay, plaque build up and other dental conditions just like adults, but when it comes to treating a child

for those things, that’s all we do. Our staff is very adept at helping children regardless if they’re scared of the dentist or not.”

Dr. Stevens says that for dental clinics that aren’t focused on pediatric dentistry, getting something like an x-ray of a child’s mouth may prove a struggle or impossible. But not so at DD4K. “Our team has the capacity to treat children at a very high level,” he says. Dr. Stevens says that trust is paramount when it comes to treating kids. That might mean taking time with a child’s treatment or not pushing them into a situation they’re not comfortable with. “Our staff is motivated by helping these

kids. And they’re fabulous with them,” Dr. Stevens shares.

“Most of our clients are on Medicaid — which a lot of dental practices won’t see,” Dr. Stevens says. “We work hard to provide an outstanding child-focused patient experience. Our staff puts in so much effort to make children and parents happy; it truly is a labor of love.”

RESPONSIBLE MINING

COEUR WHARF

Ken Nelson and Shelly Rose

Coeur Wharf, like any mine in the United States, abides by strict regulations and standards. “We live here. All of our families live here. We want our loved ones to be able to enjoy this area,” says Ken Nelson, Regional General Manager for Coeur Mining. “So, we go above and beyond state or federal requirements.”

Ken points out how residents of the Black Hills don’t have to imagine what this process looks like — it’s already happening. “We’re part owners of Terry Peak. Some of the runs were part of the mine that we’ve already reclaimed,” he says. And new runs will be added as the

mining and reclamation process continues.

Coeur’s emphasis on stewardship extends to taking care of the people that live in the communities that surround its mines. Shelly Rose is the HR and Community Relations Manager at Coeur Wharf. “Mines think long term — 20, 30, 50 years,” she says. And that long term approach applies both to mining itself and a mine’s place in its community.

Shelly shares that Coeur focuses much of its philanthropic efforts on children. “We’ve invested in the Handley Center, the Boys and Girls Club, the United Way, Wellfully and other organizations that are

having an impact on the next generation,” she says.

Coeur holds dearly its place in communities like the ones in the northern hills by investing in the people and families who call it home. And this investment in the community is not only a way to honor nearby towns and cities, it’s a way Coeur defines success.

10928 Wharf Rd, Lead, SD 57754 coeur.com/operations/ mines/wharf-south-dakota

MENTORSHIP

“Any time you have a caring adult showing up for a kid, you can’t help but make a difference,” says JC Joyce. She chairs the South Dakota board of TeamMates.

TeamMates was started by iconic University of Nebraska-Lincoln Coach Tom Osborne in the early 1990s. His idea was simple: empower his football players to give back to the Lincoln community by mentoring high school students. For many of the students who were mentored, their relationship with these Cornhusker football players was a turning point in their lives.

This mentorship team grew, and students with interests other than sports were soon

matched with mentors with similar hobbies. This transformational idea soon spread to other communities and states. TeamMates now has chapters in five states and has connected over 45,000 students with mentors.

In addition to serving on the South Dakota board of TeamMates, JC has her own mentee at Central High School in Rapid City. If the thought of becoming a mentor is beginning to intrigue you, JC encourages you to take the leap. “If you can carve out 45 minutes per week, you can have an impact on a student’s life,” she says. “It doesn’t take any special skills or training.”

And JC, who is also the Store Leader at Scheels, points out a huge advantage to mentoring. “Some of the facts and data that we’re collecting now shows that mentors are benefiting just as much as mentees,” she shares. “For an employer, that’s a selling point — employees who feel purpose and are out in the community doing good come back more engaged.”

JC Joyce TEAMMATES

GENERAL SURGERY MONUMENT

HEALTH

At Monument Health, our surgical care teams in Rapid City and Spearfish include highlytrained, experienced surgeons and specialists equipped with the latest diagnostic and surgical technology.

Rapid City surgeons, like David Fromm, M.D., and Matthew Wideroff, M.D., are trained in daVinci Robotic Surgery allowing for some of the most advanced robotic-assisted technology in the region. Rapid City Hospital is a Level II Trauma Center with Jacob Weasel, M.D., and Leslie Van Dyne, M.D., who are both trauma surgicalists.

“I think what makes our department successful is a sense of community. From the reception team checking our patients in, to the nurses in the clinic, the entire surgery team and our administrative support, we are all here to make a difference in our patients’ lives. We are fortunate to have the skills and training to be able to serve the needs of our patients and community in difficult times,” said David Fromm, M.D., Rapid City General Surgeon.

Monument Health Spearfish Hospital has been designated a MBSAQIP Accredited Comprehensive Center by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program, a national organization. Spearfish Hospital underwent an extensive site visit by an experienced bariatric surgeon who reviewed the center’s structure, processes and clinical outcomes data to earn this accreditation.

“Our Spearfish surgeons each have a special niche to ensure our patients and communities have convenient access to high-quality care, close to home,” said Andrew VanOsdol, M.D., Spearfish General Surgeon. “This team brings experience and dedication to each of their patients.”

Wesley Badger, M.D., specializes in endocrine surgery, Nicholas Czosnyka, M.D. specializes in breast surgery and Andrew VanOsdol, M.D., leads the bariatric program and also performs reflux surgery. monument.health/generalsurgery

Rapid City | Spearfish | Gillette

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

STURGIS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Veronica Grosek

Veronica Grosek is a dyed-in-the-wool champion of her hometown, Sturgis. She was raised in this northern hills community, and her family instilled in her at an early age the importance of connection. “My parents started the Sturgis Center for the Arts. The thing I absorbed during that time was how important it is to stay connected with community members and their businesses.” This sense of place stayed with Veronica. Eventually she would come to serve her beloved hometown as Executive Director of the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce.

Veronica says that the function of a chamber of commerce is unique to its community

and that her board has been supportive of discovering the unique needs of Sturgis and implementing them. “My board is really amazing. I’m extremely lucky,” she says. “And I couldn’t be happier about the staff I’ve had.”

For Sturgis, events have proven to be one of the most impactful ways for the Chamber to benefit local businesses. “Events allow our businesses to meet their customers face-to-face in an easy way,” she says. The Sturgis Chamber is now hosting around 35 events each year.

These events range from small get togethers to large, community-wide gatherings. For instance, the Chamber’s annual haunted house started as a one night event. “It was a really

great way for businesses to connect with young people,” Veronica says.

This simple event was so successful that businesses wanted more. “So the board and I listened,” says Veronica. “The haunted house now lasts four nights with four locations.” And, according to Veronica, that’s what a chamber of commerce is supposed to do — it listens to its community and delivers what it needs.

2040 Junction Ave Sturgis, SD 57785 sturgischamber.com

DERMATOLOGY

MONUMENT HEALTH

Your skin protects you from the world around you. Regular visits with dermatology experts help you protect your skin. “We provide a complete range of dermatology services,” said Christopher Gasbarre, D.O., boardcertified dermatologist in Spearfish.

Monument Health Dermatology services include diagnosis and advanced treatment of skin cancer using techniques such as Mohs micrographic surgery, providing the most upto-date treatments for acne, psoriasis, eczema and other skin conditions. In addition, a variety of aesthetic services are offered to fulfill your cosmetic needs.

Monument Health physicians and caregivers have trained at some of the best dermatology centers in the country and offer specialized expertise for patients in western South Dakota. Certifications include the American Academy of Dermatology, Society for Pediatric Dermatology, American Society for Mohs Surgery and American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.

Dr.Gasbarre enjoys treating all conditions of the skin, but is particularly interested in the treatment of skin cancers.

Maren Gaul, D.O., dermatologist in Rapid City, enjoys treating rashes, acne, diagnosing spots of concern and performing surgical procedures for skin cancer. Boarded certified in both dermatology and internal medicine, she strives to incorporate the connection of inner health in her evaluation of skin.

Siri Knutsen-Larson, M.D., board-certified dermatologist in Rapid City, focuses on medical dermatology, including the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers. Certified in Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Surgical Dermatology, she is equipped to treat various skin cancers and conditions.

Kirstin Hockhausen, M.D., board-certified dermatologist in Rapid City, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of skinrelated concerns, including skin cancer.

Rapid City | Spearfish | Gillette

LUXURY MULTIFAMILY LIVING

SAMUELSON DEVELOPMENT, LLC

John Samuelson

Samuelson Development, LLC is a company that specializes in constructing luxury apartments that bring the amenities of bigger cities — like Denver or Minneapolis — to South Dakota. “We pay close attention to every detail in our properties because we’re looking at our long-term investment,” explains John M. Samuelson, the President of Samuelson Development, LLC.

If you’re fortunate enough to live in a Samuelson property, you’ll enjoy highend features, like full fitness centers and club houses with resort-like amenities. You’ll also find some less-visible, but still exceptional features. “We like to do double-wall construction,” John explains.

“So, there’s sound-proofing in our units.” Most apartments are constructed with staggered stud, single-wall construction. The Samuelsons build apartments in a way that bucks industry standards.

Why go to all the expense and effort to make these apartments such a sanctuary for the people who live there? John points to the Golden Rule — would he and his family enjoy living in the properties they’re creating? John’s parents, John A. and Emily Samuelson founded the company in the 1970s, and they discovered that doing things differently was the right thing to do. Instead of building a property and then selling it, John A. decided that the best way for

him to truly do right and take care of his customers was to hold on to his investments for the long haul. It also meant keeping the management of the properties in the family.

20-plus years later, the Samuelsons own and manage 1,600 units in both Rapid City and Sioux Falls. And the family’s formula for serving their residence remains the same — the best group to take care of the Samuelson’s residence: the Samuelsons themselves.

512 Main St, Suite 210 Rapid City, SD 57701

samuelsondevelopment.com

At Monument Health Heart and Vascular Institute, you’ll find western South Dakota’s largest group of cardiovascular specialists who offer the full spectrum of care. They team up with skilled nurses, sonographers and advanced practice providers to make sure you receive the right care at the right time.

“We have a fantastic group of physicians and advanced practice providers at the Heart and Vascular Institute,” said Joseph Tuma, M.D., an

interventional cardiologist at Monument Health. “Just about every one of our doctors could be leaders of programs at any center in the country, and yet they chose to come to Rapid City.” Each cardiologist at the Heart and Vascular Institute is board-certified or boardeligible in their specialties of cardiology, vascular medicine, cardiac and thoracic surgery, interventional cardiology, electrophysiology and more.

In its first year participating in the

American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines®-AFib Registry, the Heart and Vascular Institute achieved the Silver Award, the highest possible first-year award. For the 11th straight year, the American College of Cardiology presented the NCDR Chest Pain–MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award to Monument Health. This award recognizes Monument Health’s caregivers and providers for delivering the highest quality care to heart

Rapid City

attack patients and places them in the top 7 percent of hospitals nationwide. The Heart and Vascular Institute is one of only 57 centers in the country who have achieved platinum status for excellence in cardiovascular outcomes for ten consecutive years as part of the ACTION Registry.

The Cardiovascular Surgery Program achieved a rating of two out of three stars from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons. The Society of Thoracic

Surgeons is a national leader in health care transparency and accountability. Participation in the STS National Database is a crucial investment for quality improvement.

The Heart and Vascular Institute is providing the communities of the Black Hills with the best heart care in the region. What’s more, the doctors at the Institute are conducting groundbreaking research that is advancing heart and vascular care throughout the world. “We have

earned multiple awards for our high quality outcomes, which puts us at the upper echelon of some of the biggest programs in the country,” said Dr. Tuma. “The Heart and Vascular Institute is focused on patientcentered care with high quality outcomes –that is the backbone of our program.”

Enjoying a meal or a drink with people you love is the perfect combination of the best things in life — nothing pairs better with a great meal than a great connection.

Janet Boyer is the owner of Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company and the Pounding Fathers Restaurant. One of her favorite aspects of owning this Custer establishment is that she gets to see families sit down, unwind and connect. “I love that we’re providing one-onone time for couples. Every day, I see moms and dads who will sit and sip a beer and have a good visit. We have an area where the kids can go and entertain themselves for a bit. And that makes me feel good to see that.”

Mt. Rushmore Brewing and the Pounding Fathers Restaurant is, at its heart, a place to connect. “It’s a comfortable space,” she explains. “Folks will grab a deck of cards or board game; they’ll play cornhole. People are just really able to focus on each other when they’re here.”

With two large decks that overlook the Mickelson Trail and a street side patio on Mount Rushmore Road, the setting lends itself to connection and so does the food and drink. “The food is phenomenal and the beer is excellent. We do lagers and pilsners the best. And we age our darker beers in whisky barrels.” This process gives their

beers a unique flavor profile. “And the food is extraordinary,” Janet goes on. “It’s all regional food from South Dakota — pheasant, bison, quail, walleye. We use fresh ingredients every day, and we prepare the dishes really well.”

Janet and her team are proud of what they’re providing in the community. She says, “We start at home. We want our community to be happy and healthy — whatever we can do to help with that, that’s at the top of our list.”

140 Mt Rushmore Rd Custer, SD 57730 mtrushmorebrewingcompany.com

Janet Boyer

MT. RUSHMORE BREWING COMPANY

RAPID SPA

At Rapid Spa, a hot tub, a sauna or a swim spa is more than just a product. When a customer comes in and purchases one of these items, what they’re really getting is, “personal wellness, relaxation and time with friends and family,” says Ben Johnson, owner at Rapid Spa. Ben and his wife, Kelly, became owners of Rapid Spa in 2020.

Service is at the heart of Rapid Spa. “That’s what sets us apart,” explains Ben. And his whole team is on board with the idea of rolling out the red carpet for their customers. From the show room to service after the sale, Rapid Spa is offering the

Black Hills an elevated customer experience.

Ben and his team want their customers to enjoy the relaxation of their hot tub or swim spa — and not to feel the headache of maintenance and repairs. “We want you to use your spa twice a day. We want you to use your sauna every day,” he says. “To be able to do that, you need to know how to take care of your spa. We help our customers do that. If you don’t have the time, we offer services to take care of your spa for you.”

Rapid Spa’s clients almost always become clients for life. Ben gives credit to that customer loyalty to his team. “I told the team the other day that what I love about our

SPA & LEISURE FACES

company is that everybody cares,” he says. “When a customer has an issue, everybody just wants to genuinely help them.”

141 E Omaha St Rapid City, SD 57701 rapidspa.com

Ben Johnson

ENGINEERING/DATA/ TECH CONSULTATION

RESPEC Todd Kenner

Todd Kenner is the CEO of RESPEC, a company that, as Todd puts it, “is a family of very talented professionals focused on solving complex problems.” After sharing this pithy summation of the organization, he says with a laugh, “I’m probably the dumbest one here.” Todd, a very bright person with extensive experience in leading and developing solutions to complicated issues, is making a point about the outstanding capabilities of the 500-plus technical professionals at RESPEC.

With 26 offices across North America, this 53-year-old Rapid City company has become a world authority in mining,

energy, water quality, data management and other complex ventures. Where do a lot of these extremely talented and intelligent people come from? Look no further than RESPEC’s own backyard — South Dakota Mines.

SD Mines is producing some of the best and most capable thinkers in the world of science and engineering. Todd explains the challenge of producing so many capable people: “I was born and raised in Rapid and went to Mines. There weren’t a lot of opportunities when I came out of school, so we had to go to other places.”

And that was one of the original driving

forces behind the founding of RESPEC in Rapid City — to give engineering graduates high-quality local opportunities with the ability to work on national and international projects.

This self-proclaimed Rapid City homeboy is thrilled to be living out his dream in his old stomping grounds. He says, “It’s fun to live out your dreams, but it’s even more fun to go way beyond anything you could dream.”

PHOTOGRAPHER: LANDSCAPE

Ellen Pustejovsky ELLEN’S COLLECTION

With timeless design and a superlative sense of style, Ellen P. works with her clients to create an immersive experience with landscape photography that she tailor makes to create “windows into nature.”

Photography, for those who approach it with mindfulness, is an art. When Ellen P., Content Creator, Landscape Artist and Entrepreneur of Ellen’s Collection, creates a piece of art for her clients, she gets to know their stories first. “For me, the process of photography starts well before I ever bring a camera out,” she explains.

The results of Ellen’s process are twofold. First, “A lot of my clients have become my

lifelong friends,” she says with a smile. The other result is a photograph that captures the heart and soul of whoever Ellen has created it for.

Ellen began her career as a portrait photographer. Today, she’s expanded her art to some trailblazing areas of storytelling. But the process to create artwork for her clients is still as personal and tailored as ever.

One of these areas of storytelling is helping both local and national companies tell their stories online. The other endeavor that gets Ellen buzzing with excitement is how she’s helping her clients create

spaces that are timelessly reflective of their personalities.

This is how it works: Ellen spends time in your living or working space. She gets to know you, your style and how you want to feel when you’re there. She then creates curated landscape photos that reflect all of those things. “I help my clients to decorate in a way that will never go out of style — in a way that they can enjoy for the rest of their lives,” she says.

ellenscollection.co ellenscollection@gmail.com

HIGHER EDUCATION: NURSING

SDSU/BHSU PARTNERSHIP

Samantha Smith and Christina Plemmons

It’s a conundrum that happens too often for college students — transfer schools and credits might not follow. Or, another common discouragement for students: the last few classes that are required for graduation aren’t available next semester.

These sorts of frustrations are one reason why Samantha Smith was drawn to work in higher education. Now, her role as the program coordinator at the West River Health Science Center (WRHSC) is to make sure those kinds of frustrations don’t happen for nursing students in western South Dakota.

“There’s a giant need for nurses in western South Dakota,” Samantha said.

So, nursing students need to have a smooth and efficient way to receive a high-quality education. That’s where the West River Health Science Center comes in. WRHSC is a partnership between Black Hills State University, South Dakota State University and other organizations that have an interest in nursing education.

Christina Plemmons is the SDSU College of Nursing Assistant Dean for Cooperative Programs. Her story starts in nursing school in Rapid City and circles back to becoming the dean of that same program that trained her. “Through the West River Health Science Center collaboration, Black Hills State and South Dakota State have been able to

partner in a way that no other two SDBOR universities have been able to partner,” she said. The unique partnership between these two universities is crucial for the future of the Black Hills region. “Without this partnership, students wouldn’t have an option to complete their entire bachelor’s degree in nursing in western South Dakota,” Christina explained.

As the region grows, so will the health care needs of the people here. Quality nurses aren’t just a luxury — they’re a necessity.

4300 Cheyenne Blvd Rapid City, SD 57703 bhsu.edu/wrhsc

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

We care for people. We get to know our clients on a personal level and what their needs are. My dad, Greg Ketel, and I are financial advisors with Edward Jones in Rapid City. The Ketel name has long been known in the Rapid City area for financial advice. My grandfather was the managing partner for a major accounting firm in Rapid City.

My dad earned an advanced degree in business and accounting at the University of South Dakota. He led the operations of a local manufacturing business for many years before joining the Edward Jones team. For the last nine years, he’s been helping people reach their long term financial goals, whether it’s retirement, education, estate considerations, insurance and/or tax considerations. The thing that he’s most proud of in his career is connecting with his clients.

I took a less traditional path than my dad — I earned a degree in mining engineering from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. I haven’t let my engineering background go to waste, though. The engineer in me wants to know the ins and outs of an investment before I recommend it. I combine that with the teams of analysts and tools available through Edward Jones, and I can find investments for my clients that match each of their unique situations.

Creating financial strategies can be overwhelming on your own, so it’s important to find a financial advisor who authentically cares and is willing to take the time to get to know you and your specific situation. You can count on my dad and me to do just that.

740 Sheridan Lake Rd, Suite C Rapid City, SD 57702. (605) 342-0037

Member: SIPC

EDWARD JONES

Greg Ketel and Matt Ketel FACES

It’s a simple concept, but it’s an uncommon one. Kelli Back and her team serve the residents of the Village at Skyline Pines with guidance from something we all learned in kindergarten, but often forget — the Golden Rule.

Kelli, the Administrator at the Village at Skyline Pines, works to create an environment that puts the residents first. “I think what sets us apart is we really have a different approach,” she says. “We don’t have that corporate view of things that a lot of places try to go by. When you’re dealing with human lives, I honestly don’t think you can do it that way.”

The Village at Skyline Pines offers assisted living and memory care services. With such a wide array of services available, residents can receive the care they require, regardless of their changing needs. “We do have an assisted living license that meets additional criteria,” Kelli explains. “That allows us to have residents here that can age in place. They don’t have to worry about relocating and finding another home as their needs change. They’re already familiar with their neighbors. They’re already familiar with the staff. Families appreciate that.”

While other senior living facilities across the country and area have closed their doors due to lack of staffing, Kelli has led Skyline Pines to new heights in recent years. “We are full. I don’t have any open beds in my assisted living or memory care and we are fully staffed,” she shares.

Kelli was recently recognized as SDHCA Administrator of the Year. “When I accepted the award, I didn’t feel this was anything I did. I felt that if it wasn’t for my team, I would not be able to do this.” Kelli appreciates the latent talent and ability of her staff, and they respond to Kelli’s belief in their success. “I just don’t micromanage,” she says. “I really am their cheerleader. I give them the tools. I give them emotional support. I’m just in the background with the pom-poms going ‘raw raw.’”

On the Skylines team, the phrase “not my job” is incompatible with the team philosophy. “I’ve watched my maintenance team walk by the dining room and if a resident needs a glass of water, they’ll stop and get him a glass of water. It’s the way that the team works,” Kelli says.

Kelli and her team have found this success all during one of the most trying times in the history of healthcare — the pandemic. “We really have a fantastic team,” she shares. “A lot of my people that I have on my team have been with me for four or five years, and that’s almost unheard of in healthcare.”

There’s something special happening at the Village at Skyline Pines. Kelli has a hard time putting it into words. But she does chock it up to one thing: passion. “If your passion is there and you express it, then your team will feel it. The family feels that energy. If you have that, you’ll never let them down.”

ELECTRICIAN

For Nick Formanek and his team of electricians, grounded has more than one meaning.

Formanek Electric has won awards and recognition for their outstanding work and customer service in the Black Hills. Nick Formanek and his team of nine electricians are doing things different from most others in the construction industry today.

“We’re doing a lot of new builds, commercial remodels and commercial new construction,” says Nick. “But we still take on smaller jobs. A lady called to ask if we would come out to put in a single light fixture. Of course we’ll do that.” With an ever-increasing

demand on the construction industry, many companies refuse these smaller jobs. But as Formanek Electric has grown, the company hasn’t left its smaller clients behind. “I have a hard time saying no,” Nick shares. And Nick’s heart for serving translates into a community-first focus for his company. “Anytime anyone calls for a sponsorship, I almost always say yes. I think we’ve got something like four go karts and a handful of softball teams that we’re sponsoring,” he says. Nick goes on, “We were all recently involved in a charity golf tournament to raise money for Children’s Miracle Network, too.”

Nick points to his crew of nine capable and fun loving guys as integral to his organization’s success. “It’s a huge thing to get 130 five-star Google reviews. All of that’s based on this awesome crew.” Nick’s electricians hold themselves to a higher standard. Nick explains, “I tell the crew to carry themselves in a way that lives up to those awards and titles we’ve won. Everyone has been on board with that.”

Nick Formanek

One home at a time: that’s how Josh Schmitt does things at Big Pine Construction. Because of this unique building philosophy, Josh’s clients get the homes of their dreams — down to the finest detail.

With absolute focus and precision, Josh and his team at Big Pine Construction build forever homes for their clients. “If I’m not able to give my clients my full attention, I just don’t feel like we’re doing justice to their project,” Josh explains. To accomplish this hyper-focused attention to detail, Josh dedicates his time to one custom home at a time — a rare approach in the construction industry.

“I really enjoy the process of meeting people and doing the best for them,” Josh says. “I always say, I’m here for 9 to 12 months, and then the rest of the time, this is yours — this is your house, not mine.”

Josh brings his expertise and passion to every project, so if a client can imagine it, Josh and his team can bring it into reality — from log homes to insulated concrete forms, to any design classic or cutting edge.

Josh’s success in building some of the most spectacular custom homes in the Black Hills hasn’t come overnight. He has been honing his craft since he was barely a teenager. But beyond his dedication to quality craftsmanship, Josh points to his loving family as the real source of his success. “My incredible wife of 14 years, Karie, has been there in the best and the not-so-fun times — through it all, supporting and loving me. And our two girls, Jeyda and Samara, are so full of life,” Josh shares with a smile. “Without my girls, none of this would be worthwhile.”

Josh Schmitt

WOMEN’S HEALTH

MONUMENT HEALTH

Spearfish

Heather Brewer, M.D., Jessica Donner, M.D., and Michelle Krohn, D.O., make up the Obstetrics and Gynecology team at Monument Health Spearfish Clinic. The board-certified physicians care for women through all aspects of life. “Gynecologic problems can surface at any age,” said Dr. Krohn. “Whether you’re experiencing abnormal bleeding, urinary incontinence or want to talk about birth control options, our team of physicians and advanced practice providers can provide an individualized care plan specific to your needs.”

This intelligent, talented and dedicated team of women caring for women provides

cutting-edge and comprehensive care to the women of the Black Hills. The physicians and providers have fun every day, support one another and truly enjoy working together to provide the best care to their patients.

The team is passionate about keeping up to date with the most advanced medical knowledge and techniques, recently completing a course on advanced, minimally invasive surgeries. They are pleased to now be able to provide this service to their patients in the Black Hills.

Patients can expect the best and most modern medical knowledge and

techniques when visiting the OB/GYN caregivers at Monument Health.

“Hospitality is the natural passion and authentic curiosity that drives me forward — it’s the engine to my creativity,” shares Leah Scott, COO of Custer Hospitality.

Custer Hospitality offers an array of lodging options, from five branded hotel properties to the one-of-a-kind Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort. This leader in Black Hills lodging proudly coined the phrase “mountain modern,” which means to escape to nature while enjoying the comfort and convenience of best in the industry amenities.

“I discovered my love for hospitality 20 years ago here in Custer.” says Leah. “My journey led me to managing several hotel properties throughout the Black Hills. Now I get the opportunity to do what I’m passionate about and to give back to the community that I grew up in.”

Leah and her team’s most recent project let her passion for detail and creativity shine. “From concept direction to design, then strategy and operations, no rock was left unturned when creating and refining our property at Buffalo Ridge,” she says. “I have been blessed to play a hands-on role in creating this newest addition to our resort.”

Custer Hospitality’s six properties wouldn’t be the beautiful and unique experiences they are today without an incredible group of people behind it. Leah explains, “We’re blessed with an ownership group that truly values every employee. Because of that, the team is passionate about providing top notch service to every guest while lifting each other up.”

Team culture is everything for Leah and the team at Custer Hospitality. “We’ve worked hard to create a culture that encourages people to want better for both our guests and each other.

35 S 4th St

Custer, SD 57730

custerhospitality.com

Leah Scott

NATIVE AMERICAN EDUCATION AND CULTURE

CRAZY HORSE MEMORIAL ® Whitney Rencountre II

Chief Henry Standing Bear and others wanted to demonstrate to the world that the Native Americans of the Northern Plains have “great heroes, also.” So, on November 7, 1939, the Lakota Chief penned a letter to an award-winning sculptor. In his message, he asked the Storyteller in Stone, Korczak Ziolkowski, “Perhaps you can help me in some way?” This correspondence would set off a decades-long course of events that would center around the preservation and celebration of the culture of Native Americans.

Crazy Horse Memorial® is the fruit of Chief Standing Bear’s persistence. The most well-known portion of the work of the Memorial is certainly the colossal Mountain Carving of Lakota hero Crazy Horse. But the Dream of preservation and celebration has overflowed into endeavors like the Indian Museum of North America® and the Indian University of North America®. Whitney Rencountre, CEO of Crazy Horse Memorial® explains, “People are drawn in by the largest Mountain Carving in progress, but once they’re here, they’re able to discover the whole story of the Native American People.”

Chief Standing Bear and Korczak would correspond both in person and in writing for eight years following their initial letter. During that time, Korczak dedicated himself to learning as much as he could about Native American culture and Crazy Horse himself before he ever took chisel to Mountain. For Korczak, the Memorial had more significance than carving stone — it was about unity, celebration and educating the world.

The work of the Memorial has held true to Korczak

and Chief Standing Bear’s original Dream. Whitney started serving as the new CEO of Crazy Horse Memorial® in September of 2022. He comes to Crazy Horse Memorial® with a desire to carry on the spirit of unification and education. “I’ve been bridging cultures and bringing people together my whole career,” he explains. “I’m pleased to continue honoring the spirit of Henry Standing Bear.”

Like Korczak’s journey to expand his view of humankind, Whitney sees education as the key to understanding the experiences of different people. “It’s human nature to only care about your own culture and circumstances,” he says. “It takes being intentional and seeking out education to expand your knowledge and point of view.” Lasting, generational progress is made when people seek out opportunities to learn about each other’s culture(s) and history.

Whitney says, “Crazy Horse Memorial® is such a special place.” A part of what makes Crazy Horse Memorial® exceptional is the awe-inspiring Carving itself. The other source of the Memorial’s uncommon effect in the world comes from the educational work that is taking center stage. “All of this work — the Carving, the displays, the training of the next generation — is for the betterment of our children,” Whitney says. And as Whitney and his team eye the future, they envision an ever-expanding impact made by education. “The human race is just better when it’s working together,” Whitney says. And that celebration of diversity and unity will continue — and it all started with a letter.

12151 Avenue of the Chiefs

Crazy Horse, SD 57730-8900

crazyhorsememorial.org

ALL THINGS LAW: GROWING WITH THE COMMUNITY

PALMER, NELSON & ASHMORE, LLP Pat Goetzinger

The business and estate planning team at GPNA are the Black Hills’ premier choice when it comes to preserving family assets. Pat Goetzinger, a partner at GPNA, leads this team of legal professionals. He joined GPNA in 1989. “I was the seventh lawyer who joined the law firm,” he fondly recalls.

Business and estate planning is a multifaceted area of law that, if managed properly, can serve families well. Pat explains, “We make sure that our clients’ hard-earned assets are passed to whomever they want to receive them. And we do it in a way that keeps as much of that net worth intact.”

Thoughtful and capable planning makes

passing assets down to the next generation more efficient. But careful planning can go beyond just preserving assets.

Pat and his team help their clients practice generosity wisely and efficiently, but they don’t just counsel generosity — they live it. “Our culture here is that we give back. And I think that’s a distinguishing quality of our firm,” he says.

The talented group of legal experts from GPNA volunteer their time to serve on boards of local nonprofits. “A lot of us also serve as counsel for nonprofits,” Pat shares. Pat and other GPNA attorneys have helped donors and charities navigate significant

contributions. “While we don’t live forever, the legacy we leave can,” Pat shares with a smile.

Philanthropy, whether through serving local nonprofits or guiding clients in effective estate and business planning, is a core principle at GPNA. And, as Pat says, “It’s really fun.”

The Historic Elks Building 506 6th St

Rapid City, SD 57701 gpna.com

GUNDERSON,

PAIN MANAGEMENT

WEST RIVER PAIN DOCS

Rapid City

If you experience chronic pain, then you know just how much it can affect all areas of your life. The West River Pain Docs team will work with you and your family to create a plan, monitor your progress and develop the skills to regain control of your life. West River Pain Docs is a group of physicians who have been practicing anesthesiology pain management in the Black Hills community for decades. The highly-trained, specialized team at West River Pain Docs combines over 200 years of experience and the latest technology to provide effective, reliable pain management services to the Black Hills region.

“As the longest-running and largest pain clinic in the state of South Dakota, West River Pain Docs has the expertise to provide you the high-quality care you need to live your best life,” explained the group’s head physician, Michael Huot, M.D.

This group provides an integrated, individualized plan for every patient. “We employ a comprehensive approach that combines medication management and interventional therapy to help you regain a higher level of function.” Huot said. With a board-certified medical team of eight, West River Pain Docs has the expertise

to quickly identify and treat any pain you may be experiencing.

Pain shouldn’t keep you from doing the things you love. The doctors at West River Pain Docs have extensive experience in effectively treating chronic pain and giving their patients the ability to lead a full, active life.

When Lisa DenHerder and her husband Rick first became grandparents, they would search for local baby stores anytime they traveled. During these shopping expeditions, the couple began to realize that the Black Hills were in need of this type of specialty store. “All signs pointed to opening a children’s boutique, so we went to work and created it.” DenHerder opened Kicks and Giggles, located in downtown Rapid City, in December of 2016. Since then, this charming boutique has become a part of the stories of many families.

For six years, Kicks and Giggles has brought in high-quality children’s clothing, car seats, and other baby gear to meet the

desires of parents. While providing an in-person shopping experience, Kicks and Giggles has made giving back a priority by supporting family-friendly organizations, like Feeding South Dakota and United Way of the Black Hills. “We all know what it’s like to be hungry,” DenHerder says, “so it’s meaningful when we give to organizations who ensure families have food.”

Customers have come to know Kicks and Giggles for its welcoming environment, and DenHerder shares credit for this special experience of her boutique with her dedicated staff. “I’m so blessed to have a team of women who share their talents with me,”

she says. “I’m grateful for each one of them — as we create a personal experience for our customers.”

DenHerder and her team look forward to the future, especially meeting the parents and grandparents — as well as family and friends — of the next generation. “We believe the store’s purpose is more than the goods; it’s connecting with people,” she says. “We consider ourselves blessed to be a part of their journey.”

329 Main St, Suite 3 Rapid City, SD 57701 shopkicksandgiggles.com

Lisa DenHerder

NEUROSURGERY

Kyle Schmidt, M.D., a neurosurgeon at Monument Health, has a deep appreciation for how he and fellow physicians and providers specializing in neurosurgery make a difference in the lives of their patients. “The team and I are most passionate about working with traumatic brain and spine injury patients,” said Dr. Schmidt. “These are life-changing events for patients and their families. We work with them so that they understand the options available to them.”

Monument Health’s neurosurgery team provides operative and nonoperative care for conditions affecting the brain, spine and central nervous system. They combine the

latest proven techniques with state-of-theart equipment, such as the new Globus Excelsius GPS robot, to restore quality of life. The Globus robot is an innovative way to efficiently and safely place spinal hardware. The robot helps improve surgical accuracy while decreasing tissue dissection and manipulation and intraoperative radiation exposure. Globus is revolutionary, the only device of its kind in the Black Hills area and is currently only used by Monument Health Neurosurgery.

Treatment options include non-surgical treatments, minimally invasive surgery, spinal decompression and spinal fusion.

The neurosurgery team is able to provide relief to patients with chronic low back, leg, neck and arm pain. They can also treat spinal cord, skull and peripheral nerve disorders.

Patients and families can be assured that the Monument Health caregivers specializing in neurology will discuss any recommended procedures with you in clear language — including surgery, alternatives to surgery, anesthetic options and rehabilitation.

Rapid City

REAL

ESTATE

Real estate can be thrilling, anxietyinducing, overwhelming and every emotion in between (sometimes all in the same day). “We get to be with people in some of their highest moments and some of their lowest,” shares Angelica Wojtanowicz, Broker Associate at the Wojtanowicz Team at Black Hills Realty.

TJ Wojtanowicz, founded Black Hills Realty five years ago. Angelica explains, “TJ wanted to create an opportunity to

control his own environment and show people how he does business.” And TJ’s style of business has been creating repeat clients since he began working in real estate 17 years ago. “TJ has a reputation for having an unwavering work ethic. He built this business by doing things like knocking on doors or finding out-of-thebox solutions to real estate deals.”

Black Hills Realty now boasts a roster of 14 agents. Access to such a capable team of real estate experts in the region is more

important than ever. “With this booming real estate market, people need expert information,” Angelica says. “There’s a lot of noise out there, but Rapid and the Black Hills are such a unique market; you really do need experts like the agents in the Wojtanowicz Team.”

The Wojtanowicz Realty Team believes in marketing homes, not just listing them. They consider it their duty to make sure that their clients’ property is shown in the best light across every platform. “That’s

TJ and Angelica Wojtanowicz

why we invest and focus on a big online presence,” explains Angelica.

The process of putting people first starts on day one of buying or selling real estate with the Wojtanowicz Realty Team. “We sit down with our clients and discuss their goals and needs,” Angelica says. This is a part of the team’s commitment to clear communication. “Often, we start this at the beginning. Most of the time, there’s advice that we can give people that’ll result in the best outcome.”

So, if you’re looking for a real estate agent who will put you and your family’s needs first, the Wojtanowicz Realty Team needs to be your next call. “Because of our total commitment to service for our clients, we build relationships that are long term. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to work with many on a repeat basis,” TJ says. Discover more on Instagram and Facebook at @wojtanowiczrealtyteam.

4905 5th St, Suite 101 Rapid City, SD 57701 bhsdrealty.com

FACES

CANCER CARE

One in two women and one in three men will develop cancer at some point in their lives. Cancer is a diagnosis that changes everything in a person’s life: perspectives, priorities, attitudes and feelings. Cancer is world-shaking, but treatment can be a source of hope.

Monument Health is a leader in the region when it comes to cancer care. It begins with a highly-connected team of caregivers. Abdel-Ghani Azzouqa, M.D., a Hematologist and Oncologist at Monument

Health Cancer Care Institute, explained, “We believe in delivering the highest quality care for our patients. Patient care is our number one priority. We have a robust multidisciplinary approach, with radiation oncologists and involved specialists in cancer management. Our research program works with nationally renowned research groups, which can offer patients a glimpse into the future with the latest emerging therapeutics.” Patients benefit enormously from this team approach to treatment.

Monument Health is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network. This special designation means that Monument Health caregivers have access to the research and expertise of Mayo Clinic. The Cancer Care Institute provides outpatient oncology services, supportive laboratory and imaging services, as well as services for related clinical research trials.

The expansion portion of the $36 million Cancer Care Institute project is complete, with the renovation of the

Rapid City

previous space underway. The expansion, housed at the east end of the Rapid City Hospital campus, will improve patient comfort, facilitate more collaboration among specialists and allow cancer patients to receive care closer to home. The target completion is set for Summer 2023.

Publisher Rick DenHerder Creative Director John Edwards Production Coordinator Dolsee Davenport VP of Sales and Growth Ruth Rossbach Senior Editor Stephen Simpson Senior Designer Mike Mazzarella Digital Media Director Billie Becker Photographer Jesse Brown Nelson