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From pregnancy to menopause and beyond, choose the area’s best in comprehensive women’s healthcare.
Shana Bernhard, MD Angela K. Anderson, MD Marcia Beshara, MD
Jeffrey Bendt, MD
Katherine Degen, MD
Heather Moline, MD
Sarah Benne, C-NP
Pregnancy | Female Surgery | Gynecology | High-Risk OB | Menopause | Birth Control | Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Pelvic Floor Dysfunction | Adolescent Gynecology | 3D Mammography | MonaLisa Touch | PRP Intimacy Injection
605.342.3280 | www.RapidCityMedicalCenter.com
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Inside this Issue
8
Seeking Human Kindness From The Editor
10
Tackling Difficult Family Dynamics During the Holidays Family
16
Small Shifts to Combat Shorter Days
Lifestyle
20
Sparking Joy Home
24
Bye, Bye Dry Moisturizing Product Swaps for Winter Beauty
28 Get It Local
Holiday Gift Guide
32
Meth Recovery Two Locals Share Their Stories Health
Danielle Shafer, PA-C
Make your appointment today: 605-791-7799
40
Keenie Word Always Been Country
Feature
46
Cyrissa Thompson Girl Gives Back
50
No Elephants Were Harmed in the Making of this Column Humor
54
Nicola Elizabeth Meeks Artist Profile
60
Michelle Kane Director of the SD CEO Women’s Business Center Women In Business
66
Destination Series: Atlanta, GA Travel
70
Prepare Your Kids for Careers in an AI-Driven Future-World Parenting
76
Santa's Letters Crossword
6
It was a chilly afternoon in downtown Rapid City
when, as I was getting in my car, I saw a homeless man stumbling from side to side as he walked down the sidewalk. He was weathered, dirty, had a freshly beaten face and was highly intoxicated. As I watched him come my way, I felt defensive, sure he’d ask me for money, but he didn’t even see me. He was just trying to stay standing. A little voice entered my head, “He needs food.”
I happened to be holding leftovers from lunch that I was going to take home. Unsure about his mental state, I stood behind my car door, using it as a shield and called out to him. He looked at me, unable to focus, and said, “Huh?” I asked him if he’d like some food but he didn’t comprehend what I was saying, so I just extended the white container. “What is it?” he slurred. “Food,” I said. His eyes grew wide as he stared straight into mine, trying to determine what was happening. And as if the fog of alcohol confusion lifted and he was suddenly sober, he said, “Really?” His eyes filling with tears, he thanked me and staggered to the building next to us and leaned against it as he began to eat.
8
From the Editor
This moment was supposed to make me feel good. I was supposed to pat my privileged-self on the back for being a good person and doing a kind thing, right? But I felt terrible. It was clear to me that this man was so unaccustomed to human kindness that it floored him when it happened. One meal and one kind gesture wasn’t going to help him off the street, or put him on a path of recovery, or undo years of being unsheltered physically and emotionally. That momentary exchange has caused me to rethink everything I believe about the responsibility we have to each other, not just those in our family or social circle, but to offer kindness, dignity, ernard By Tracy B and respect to all. It is difficult for me to comprehend that there are people who walk this earth with no one to love them, but sadly, it’s true. So please accept this little reminder to do a little extra for the people who need lift. Even a smile and saying good morning as you pass someone on the street can make a difference. I hope you all find yourselves surrounded by people who love you so fully that you have extra to give. Happy Holidays. BHW
Tackling Difficult Family Dynamics During the Holidays
By Chrystal McLeod
10
Family
The leaves are changing, the morning bite is nearing, and winter is in plain sight. These are the early signs of the busiest and most stressful times of the year. Before you know it, Thanksgiving will be here, and we will be shopping for the perfect Christmas gift for our family members. For some, this is the most exciting time of the year because they can see family, and for others, this can be a very challenging time of year. Challenges during this time of year exist for many reasons. They may be the result of the death of a family member, disagreements with your family because of lifestyle choices, dealing with a sibling whom you have not spoken to since the previous holiday season, or hearing from that aunt who consistently inquires about your marital status.
Maneuvering uncomfortable family dynamics during the holiday season can be tough. We are often so swamped with taking care of others during this time that we forget that we are just as important as our family members, co-workers, and friends. So, if the holiday season is approaching and you are worried about how to handle things, take a look at some of the tips below for some great ideas on conquering the holiday season with challenging family dynamics. Plan Ahead Planning will prevent surprises so that you will know what to expect during the season or before your arrival to an event. This will give you the opportunity to decline any invitations that you are not comfortable with or plan for gatherings that may be challenging. If you are an individual who struggles with socializing, gatherings can be a bit
Family
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much. Ensure that you have a plan in place to take breaks when needed and also to avoid unwanted questions or situations that may surface during this time. Stay Focused It can be challenging to stay focused on the occasion when you are still hurt about something that happened months or years ago, but you must. Stay focused on the fact that you are present to celebrate with your family, not to resolve a conflict with your sister. If you are uncomfortable being in the same room, mingle with family members who are outside or in another place to avoid unwanted contact or discussion. Keep some space between you and the stressors. Establish Boundaries Determine in advance your budget during the holiday and what family events you will attend. The pressure of the holidays can create exhaustion and sleeplessness and can cause regression. It can also cause financial stressors as well. These things can ultimately lower your body's natural defenses, causing fatigue and burnout. Create boundaries and pace yourself so that you can prevent exhaustion and sustain your momentum during the holiday season.
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Family
Keep a Routine The holidays can be new terrain for many things that are happening within a family system. During this time of the year, we tend to get out of our regular routines, and that includes methods that lower stress levels. Ensure that you maintain your routine during the holidays. Stay in your exercise routine, eat regular meals, and ensure that you are getting the proper rest. These things help lower your stress levels, help you become more tolerable of new family dynamics, and help you navigate uncomfortable situations well.
Family
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Practice Patience Keep in mind that everyone will not agree 100% of the time, and dealing with change is unique to each individual. If death touched your family this year, it could be difficult for some family members to deal with the holiday season. Consider doing a memorial to help soothe those feelings, or consider having a small discussion with the family before the gathering and discuss practical ways to handle the change. Understand that where you are during this holiday season can be different from those around you. Practice patience and create opportunities to take a break when feeling overwhelmed. Plan A Community Service Event Giving back to others can decrease tension that may be present in a family. Consider planning a community service event for the family. This fosters the ability to focus on the present and why the holidays exist. When you are focused on other things, you are less likely to focus on your current family dynamics, and doing something positive will increase your overall mood. During the holiday season, many things happen, both positive and negative. The reality is you can only control you. Therefore, you must ensure that you are taking excellent care of yourself in the process. Recognize the things that trigger you during the holidays. Plan in advance just in case these things come up. This holiday season, lower your stress levels and enjoy time with your family by utilizing and practicing the self-care tips above. Happy Holidays! BHW
Crystal McLeod is a licensed clinical social worker who is an aspiring writer, blogger, and motivational speaker. She also serves in the United States Air Force as a clinical social worker, pouring into the lives of military members and their families, while mentoring young clinicians and paraprofessionals.
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Family
This year’s featured entertainer is none other than Rapid City’s own Jim Barber! Jim’s refreshingly unique approach to the art of ventriloquism and his incredible vocal skills have earned him the reputation as one of the most original talents performing today. He presents a show unlike any you’ve seen before with ingenious comical characters, toe-tapping music, and hilarious audience participation! Visit www.YouthAndFamilyServices.org or call (605) 342-4195 for more information or to reserve your seats today!
Small Shifts to Combat Shorter Days
16
Lifestyle
By Brittany Pruess
For many, pumpkin lattes and cozy nights spent around the fire also stir up the “winter blues” and lethargic days. Family Doctor suggests that 4-6% of people in the United States struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and as many as 10-20% suffer from a less debilitating form of this disorder. These numbers do not include anyone who may notice individualized symptoms of the colder season such as increased appetite, lethargy, achy bones, dampened mood, lack of social engagement, etc. With shorter days and longer nights, it is no wonder many struggle to feel as productive and energetic as they do during the summer months. It is also important to note researchers have found women experience more of the symptoms of SAD than men. Perhaps you can connect with some of the psychological and physical symptoms mentioned above. If so, here are a few small shifts for you to make in your routine to combat the shorter days during this season. Find Comfort Although at first glance it may seem counterintuitive, one of the greatest shifts you can make in your routine is the shift of perspective. Approaching winter months as an opportunity to savor and slow down encourages you to nurture a positive attitude about the season rather than a negative one. Embrace the slower pace by incorporating a few of your favorite “slow season” activities such as reading a book with your favorite cup of tea, waking up earlier in the morning to enjoy an additional 15 minutes in bed reading, or having a candlelight dinner as the hours of darkness grow. Another great activity to incorporate during this time of year is to spending more time with friends in the comfort of your home. Creating opportunities for intimate gatherings with those closest to you—everyone dressed in the warm clothes of winter, the fireplace or candles glowing, and blankets piled up high—evokes the hygge
Lifestyle
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(a Danish word used when acknowledging a feeling or moment as cozy, charming or special) experience the Danes so often mention and our society craves. Create Intentional Rest Research shows additional hours of darkness actually cause an increase in melatonin production in the body. As a result, many individuals feel more sluggish throughout the day. To combat the daily burnout, consider allowing yourself to move more slowly in the evening and getting a good night’s rest. A few ways you can do this is to eliminate electronics a couple hours before going to bed (the blue light impacts your biological clock), selecting your most comfortable pajamas, spending a few extra minutes with your skincare regimen, and incorporating essential oils and relaxing stretches into your routine to prepare your body for sleep. Soak Up Fresh Air + Vitamin D It is imperative to soak up the daylight hours while you have them this season in order to combat some of the symptoms you may experience. Two of the easiest ways to ramp up your energy for the day are to letting the sunlight in first thing in the morning and going for a brisk walk outside over your lunch break. Basking in the natural light allows your body to absorb Vitamin D, which in turn increases serotonin levels and helps maintain a stable circadian rhythm. You may also want to plan a yearly trip to the equator to soak up a little extra sunshine. This will also give you something to look forward to during the colder months of the year. If you really struggle to get enough Vitamin D, you may want to consult with your doctor about taking a Vitamin D supplement to reduce your risk of becoming Vitamin D deficient, which can lead to greater complications regarding your health. Keep Your Body Healthy + Active Incorporating daily exercise into your routine keeps your body and mind feeling mobile, energetic, and optimistic about the day ahead. Exercise increases neurotransmitters like glutamate and GABA, which help you maintain a positive, yet calm, attitude during a time when you may want to slump down and hibernate. Consider switching up the type of exercise you do in the colder months to a gentler version of what you would normally practice. A morning yoga sequence or a slower walk/bike commute to work may be just what your body craves during this season. Do not overwork your body when it urges you to slow down. Simply embrace the kind of softer exercise this season calls for. Another small shift you can make is switching up your food options this time of year. Each season has a list of ingredients that are more favorable than others. What should you eat for the colder months? As a general rule, the produce that grows during each season is the produce your body needs. For example, pumpkin seeds, squash, root
18
Lifestyle
vegetables, and earthy spices are perfect ingredients to incorporate into your meal planning this time of year. Also consider drinking more hot tea and savoring broth soups to warm up your body and provide a sense of comfort. Every whole food ingredient has a set of benefits, so if you know you need a boost in Vitamin C or D, calcium, or another nutrient for this season, look at what produce may provide that for you. Finally, hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. With the colder months also comes windier and dryer conditions. Help your body stay hydrated by consuming more water and also keeping your body moisturized. Sesame oil is a great option for moisturizing your body during this time of year, as it also carries several added benefits for your skin as well! The shorter days do not have to mean sluggish moods and unproductive hours. Consider making a few small shifts this season to boost your mood, your energy, and your attitude toward this beautiful time of year. Although you might experience an occasional seasonal symptom, you may discover a few glimpses of cozy comfort as well. BHW
Lifestyle
19
Sparking Joy Black Hills local Paula Gapp embarks on a journey to become the area's first certified KonMari Consultant.
20
Home & Garden
In a world of chaos and over-abundance, when a tiny, cardigandonning Japanese woman named Marie Kondo shows some fine-tuned techniques for making the home orderly, you listen, and millions have, including Rapid City resident Paula Gapp. "I had seen The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up in the bookstore several times over the last few years, and had even picked it up a few times, but didn’t purchase it. Then in January of this year, I saw the Netflix series Tidying Up with Marie Kondo and proceeded to binge watch all of the episodes and read both her books, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up and Spark Joy, in one month," says Paula. She was hooked and started to tidy her own home following the KonMari MethodTM. The KonMari process includes going through all of your belongings one category at a time, so rather than doing a room, you choose a category of things, like clothing. You gather all of the items in that category, no matter where they are stored in the home, and put them all together in a pile. This provides you with a "shock" so you can see how much of a particular thing you own. There are 5 categories in the process, which are to be done in a specific order: Clothing, Books, Paper, Komono (miscellaneous items), and Sentimental. "Throughout the process, I went through all of my items, along with belongings shared with my family," Paula says. But she didn't stop there. Tackling her home organization using Marie Kondo's methods sparked enough joy that she decided to turn it into a career and attended a KonMari MethodTM certification course in Los Angeles. The certification course is one part of a seven step process in becoming a certified KonMari Consultant. "It was really inspiring to meet other people who had the same interest and passion for KonMari. There were about 100 attendees from all over the world and each person had a story," says Paula. "I was surprised by how emotional of an experience it was. I sat next to
Home & Garden
21
a woman from Colombia and she shared a very personal story with me about her journey with tidying and how it helped her to move through a really difficult time in her life." Marie Kondo spoke to the group for about an hour. "When she came into the room, there was such a positive energy and I admit I teared up a little," recollects Paula. Marie shared her own story and her vision to “organize the world.� To keep the community interactive, consultants have a Facebook group for support during the learning process so members can share experiences and get advice on a variety of topics. Paula is still in the process of completing the steps for full certification but has qualified to charge for services and is currently working with clients right now. "I need to see one client through from beginning to end of the process and start the process with one other client and submit reports to become certified. The evaluation team will read my reports and give me feedback so that I can become a better coach." Paula hopes to be fully certified by Spring 2020 and anticipates the costs for her services to be from $35-$45 per hour, depending on the package. For more information, visit paulagapp.com.
TIPS FOR ORGANIZATION Have a home for everything in a place where you have enough room for it. Sometimes we store like things in different places, which can lead to overbuying because we forget where things are. Declutter by category; gather everything in a particular category so you can see what you have. The KonMari folding technique is really simple but also effective, resulting in storing your clothes vertically instead of horizontally.
22
Home & Garden
Who is Marie Kondo? Marie Kondo is a tidying expert, bestselling author, star of Netflix's hit show. Tidying Up With Marie Kondo, and founder of KonMari Media, Inc. Enchanted with organizing since her childhood, Marie began her tidying consultant business as a 19-year-old university student in Tokyo. Today, Marie is a renowned tidying expert, helping people around the world to transform their cluttered homes into spaces of serenity and inspiration. Source: konmari.com.
Home & Garden
23
Bye, Bye, Dry Moisturizing Product Swaps for Winter By Jessie Fewson
24
Beauty
As the weather gets cooler, our skin naturally becomes drier and hungrier for moisture. Cream products are a great option for the colder months or even as a year-round option for a fresh, healthy glow. Powder products sit on top of the skin and can enhance dryness, while cream products meld with the skin to create a more flawless finish. The best part about cream products is that they are very forgiving and can be applied using just your fingers! Here are some products to keep you fresh this season. Illuminating Hydrating Primer Instead of a regular primer or no primer at all, try swapping to an illuminating hydrating primer for the winter. The purpose of a primer is to create a smooth, even base for foundation and any other products on the face. Illumination pigments cause the skin to look plump and hydrated, while the hydrating ingredients will help smooth out any dry patches of skin. This product can also be used on its own to add a fresh glow and plump to the skin. Illuminator Stick This is an excellent product that can be used on cheeks, lips, and eyes or as a highlight under the brow bone. Illuminator sticks come in various shades, and are extremely easy to use, and are versatile. Blush and berry tones are great for cheeks and lips, while gold and pearl tones are great for the brow bone area. Cream Blush Cream blush is an amazing product that adds a fresh berry kiss to that pale winter face. Like other cream products, this can be applied with your fingertips to help it melt into the skin. The one thing to keep in mind when opting for a cream blush is that a little goes a long way. Cream blushes are highly pigmented and can easily be overdone. Try using a tiny dab on your fingertip and blend to avoid overripe cheeks.
Beauty
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Whipped or Cream Lip Scrub The lips are the one part of the face that really takes a beating in colder weather. Add a lip scrub to your routine a few times a week to prevent chapped and crackly winter lips. CC Cream If you normally use a mineral foundation or a matte formula, it may be time to swap to a CC cream for the season. CC cream offers more moisture than a traditional foundation and still has enough pigment to even out skin. CC cream can also be blended with moisturizer to create just a splash of coverage while hydrating the skin. Tinted Lip Balm or Lip Oil Lipstick can be tricky to perfect with dry lips and often cracks or doesn’t sit smoothly. Tinted lip balm is a great way to add color and still care for and protect lips from the cold. Lip oil is another great option if you would like to add some color but still nourish lips. Both products come in a wide range of colors and options to suit your occasion. With these great products on hand, you are sure to enjoy a happy, healthy winter glow all season long. BHW
26
Beauty
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27
Holiday Gift Guide
Pure Fox
Just Dandy
Prairie Berry Winery
605 Main St., Rapid City
273 Main St., Hill City
23837 Us-385, Hill City
Universal Cream for Cheeks or Lips
Oracle Cards
Gen5 Wine Club Membership
$29.00
$19.99
$60-$80
Alex Johnson Mercantile
Tailored Faith
Jewel of the West
608 St. Joseph St, Rapid City
Encouragement Ring
208 Main St., Hill City
Zapotec Indian Woven Rugs
tailoredfaithco.com
French Kande Collection
$98-$290
$26
$90-$450
Things That Rock
O & A Farmhouse
Who’s Toy House
257 E. Main St., Hill City
320 7th. St. Ste. C., Rapid City
512 Main St., Rapid City
Cylindrical Carved Onyx Lamp
Bennett Velvet Dress
Perplexus Puzzle Balls
$475
$68
$19.99-$39.99
Riddles
Mostly Chocolates
Victoria’s Garden
2707 Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City
1919 Mt. Rushmore Rd. #1, Rapid City
320 7th St., Rapid City
Diamond Stud Earrings 5/8 ct. tw.
Assorted Chocolate Gift Baskets
Fresh Holiday Centerpieces
$599.00
$39.95-$59.95
$33-$75
SoleMate Shoes & Uniform Center
Perfect Hanging Gallery
Dahl Chainsaw Art
723 Main St., Rapid City
621 Main St., Rapid City
Deadwood-Hill City-Keystone
Springstep Waterlily
Vintage National Parks Calendars
Custom 4’ Sculptures
$119.99
$21.95
$450-$550
Essential Oil Outlet
Mainstream Boutique
Wear It Again Sam
2120 W. Main St. #3, Rapid City
613 Main St., Rapid City
402 E. Fairmont Blvd., Rapid City
Elegante Essential Oil Diffuser
Mac and Me Jewelry
Free People Dress
$70.00
$36-$68
$22.99
Someone's In The Kitchen 2210 Haines Ave., Rapid City SMEG Retro 2-Slice Toaster $159.99
Me 32
Health & Fitness
y r e v o c e R th Two
hare T Locals S
heir Sto
ries
By Heidi Bell
Gease
Names have been changed to protect the identity of these Black Hills locals so as not to compromise their recovery. Claire didn’t expect to live to see 21. And she didn’t much care whether she did. Her upbringing in Rapid City was sheltered but abusive. When introduced to drugs at 18, she went straight to shooting up meth. “I was down for whatever the first thing was that was going to destroy my life,” said Claire, who believes her drug use stemmed from a lack of self-worth. “The only thing I found that gave me worth was being a drug dealer. That way, you matter. You have value to people.” Drugs weren’t hard to come by. But over time, meth, pills, and heroin became even easier to find. “It’s literally everywhere,” she said. When shooting up in her arms began causing infections, Claire started shooting up in her neck. That was uncommon when she started using, but later, everyone she knew shot up in their jugulars. “It’s progressing at a really scary rate,” she said. National statistics bear that out. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that drug overdose deaths have gone from 16,849
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WHAT IS METHAMPHETAMINE? Methamphetamine is an illegal drug in the same class as cocaine and other powerful street drugs. It has many nicknames—meth, crank, chalk, or speed being the most common. Crystal meth is used by individuals of all ages but is most commonly used as a “club drug,” taken while partying in night clubs or at rave parties. Its most common street names are ice or glass. It is a dangerous and potent chemical and, as with all drugs, a poison that first acts as a stimulant but then begins to systematically destroy the body. Thus, it is associated with serious health conditions, including memory loss, aggression, psychotic behavior, and potential heart and brain damage. Highly addictive, meth burns up the body’s resources, creating a devastating dependence that can only be relieved by taking more of the drug. Crystal meth’s effect is highly concentrated, and many users report getting hooked (addicted) from the first time they use it. Consequently, it is one of the hardest drug addictions to treat and many die in its grip. Source: www.drugfreeworld.org.
in 1999 to 70,237 in 2017. About two-thirds of 2017 overdoses involved opioids such as fentanyl and heroin; nearly one-third involved cocaine and/or psychostimulants such as meth. Researchers believe one reason for the increase in deadly overdoses could be that people are mixing drugs. And according to National Public Radio’s All Things Considered, researchers believe the current meth crisis is linked to the opioid epidemic. NPR reported that the number of opioid users in the U.S. who said they also used meth went from 19 percent in 2011 to 34 percent in 2017. Research suggests that efforts to persuade doctors to prescribe fewer opioids may have driven people to use meth instead. “Methamphetamine served as an opioid substitute, provided a synergistic high, and balanced out the effects of opioids so one could function ‘normally,’” researchers wrote. Allison Smith knows all about "functional" addiction. A California native, she began using crank as a teenager. At 20, she met her husband, Tom. In 2001, they moved to Rapid City, where he worked as a civil engineer and she hosted a radio show. They had two children, a nice house, and a drug habit. “Tom was coaching the kids’ soccer team but we still had this secret life of using on the weekends,” Allison said. “We’d do the normal thing during the week.”
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Health & Fitness
FIVE REASONS YOU SHOULD HAVE A PRIMARY CARE DOCTOR: 1
FAMILY DOCTORS FOLLOW YOUR LIFE CYCLE
Our family is growing to take care of your family.
Family doctors treat a wide range of conditions for all ages and stages of life. 2
THEY KNOW YOUR PERSONAL AND FAMILY HISTORY OFTEN BECAUSE THEY ARE TAKING CARE OF MULTIPLE GENERATIONS OF YOUR FAMILY
Dr. Taylor Kapsch (August 2019)
When doctors treat you for years, they get to know your medical history inside and out. 3
FAMILY DOCTORS TREAT MORE THAN YOU THINK Family doctors are highly trained, board certified physicians who are skilled at making diagnoses and treating many conditions.
4
(September 2019)
WHEN YOU NEED A SPECIALIST, YOUR FAMILY DOCTOR HELPS YOU FIND THE RIGHT DOCTOR
Navigating medical care can be challenging and your family doctor acts as your advocate to make sure you see the right specialist. 5
Dr. Kyle Larson
FAMILY DOCTORS CAN IMPROVE LIVES AND SAVE MONEY
Patient studies reveal when they have a primary care doctor they have lower hospitalization rates, fewer emergency room visits and reduced costs of health care.
Dr. Nancy Babbitt
Dr. Jon Wingert
Dr. Carson Phillips
Jenna Dormann, PA-C
Steve Sachs, PA-C
Dr. Ann Hibbs
(September 2019)
Please call to schedule an appointment.
2822 Jackson Blvd, Suite 101, Rapid City, SD 605-341-1208 creeksidemedicalclinic.org
Things took a turn in 2008, when she was prescribed pain pills for a heart infection. She sold the pills to buy meth. “Everything really snowballed after that.” The couple lost their jobs and their home. They returned to California, sometimes sober but never for long. There was a DUI, more lost jobs, and a brief move to Alabama. Then one night in 2011, they packed up their children—then 11, 8 and 1—drove to a friend’s house in Denver, and shot up heroin for the first time. “We became full-blown junkies,” Allison said, although she never considered herself one. After all, she was a former cheerleader and homecoming queen. She had a college degree. “This wasn’t supposed to be my life,” she said. But it was. Allison began counterfeiting lottery tickets to buy drugs. Back in Rapid City, she and her husband stole drugs from ill family members. “At this point, it’s not even about getting high anymore. It’s about not getting sick,” said Allison, describing withdrawal as “like the worst flu times 10.” “Every molecule in your body hurts.” Despite the chaos, Allison said the couple thought their children didn’t know about their drug use. They were wrong. In 2012, their youngest son took his parents’ lock-box of drugs to school, gave it to the liaison officer, and said, “I don’t know what’s in this box but I’m tired of my parents taking it into the bathroom.” “He saved our lives,” Allison says now. “I tell him that all the time.” For Claire, the turning point came after she was sexually assaulted. She contacted numerous people, asking for help. It was five hours before anyone responded. Later, in the hospital, she told a friend she wanted drugs. “She was there in less than 15 minutes,” Claire said. “For whatever reason, that really hit. If there’s money or drugs involved, boom. But the things that actually matter in life are not important (to drug addicts).” Both women have paid dearly for their addictions. Both have felony records. Both lost custody of their children. Both have had to confront painful memories of childhood abuse. Drug use “wrecked me health-wise,” Claire said. She’s had Hepatitis C twice. She’s battled kidney and liver problems. Meth ruined her teeth; she nearly died from a tooth infection. The Smiths went through relapses and jail stints after their son turned them in. Allison was kicked out of detox and eventually sentenced to five years in prison. “It was very unnerving,” she said. “I spent a lot of time reading, thinking, ‘I don’t ever want to come back to this place.’” Meanwhile, Tom enrolled in the Pennington County Drug Court program, later becoming its first graduate. He landed at the Cornerstone Rescue Mission before finding veteran housing and a job. He got the kids back.
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Health & Fitness
Allison returned to Rapid City with an ankle monitor. She’s grateful to a local beverage company for hiring her, too. (Her coworkers even brought a cake to celebrate when she got off parole.) After Claire’s epiphany, she turned herself in on outstanding warrants to face legal consequences. It turned out her home school diploma was invalid so she earned her GED at the Career Learning Center. Staff there encouraged her to think about college, something Claire had always considered “a dream for other people.” She’s now the first woman ever enrolled in a program at Western Dakota Tech. “I love it,” she said. “It’s super rad.” Claire has reestablished a relationship with her children, ages almost 9, 8 and 5, who currently live with their grandmother. “I didn’t have any contact with them while I was out making bad decisions,” she said, but now she’s looking forward to having them back home after she graduates in May. Claire’s been amazed by people’s willingness to help her succeed. She credits the support of her probation officer,
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CLC staff, Western Dakota staff, and AA friends. She’s thankful for the Prosperity Initiative program, which found local professionals to provide her with free dental work and dentures. And she’s especially grateful to her employer for hiring her despite her past. Today, Allison and Claire have good things in common. They’re both sober and in recovery. They’re spending time with their kids. And they both have plans and hopes for the future, something they didn’t have while using. The Smiths' lives have changed completely. Before, their relationship revolved around drug use. Now, they enjoy hiking, working out, and being with their kids. “I think we fell in love with each other again,” Allison said. “We found out that we enjoy each other’s company.” She wants to travel and hike the Pacific coast with her husband. “I almost missed all of this,” she said. “It’s a new life. And it’s great that we get to do it together.” BHW
IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW NEEDS HELP WITH AN ALCOHOL OR DRUG ADDICTION, DON'T WAIT. CONTACT: PENNINGTON COUNTY CARE CAMPUS 321 KANSAS CITY STREET RAPID CITY, SD 57701
605-394-6128
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Health & Fitness
Your Favorite Holiday Special Comes To You Live On Stage!
December 7 2:00 & 7:00
IDE N E E KWOR untry Co n e e B s y a Alw By Jenn
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Feature
ifer Lee
“I grew up in a ranching/rodeo family, so I was always somewhat of the odd man out having my main passion be for music.” Keenie Word has been singing for as long as she can remember. Her mom has pictures of her singing the National Anthem at a rodeo at three years old while someone is holding her up to the microphone. “I spent my early years on my grandparents’ ranch on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. It was in the middle of absolute nowhere, seven miles to our mailbox, and not a whole lot to entertain yourself with,” she says. “We would drive around in the truck and sing as much as we could. My dad was a fabulous singer and sang and danced with me all the time, so I think I probably picked some of that up from him.” Keenie is a small-town girl, a South Dakota native whose rural roots of hard work and faith-based living have been foundational in sustaining her throughout a successful career in Nashville’s fast-paced music industry. Keenie recalls of her childhood, “We (later) moved to a smaller ranchette in Hermosa. The town at the time only had about a thousand people. When it was nice out, I’d come straight home from school and ride my horse.” She continues, “I loved growing up in a small town. We had a lot of livestock and I watched my parents work hard. I was expected to work hard as well.” She adds, “I vividly remember my dad singing. I learned what good music was, and if it wasn’t Marty Robbins, I would be listening to anything by Eddie Arnold or Patsy Montana.” Keenie began singing while still a toddler and, through the support of her family and those who recognized her talent, has continued singing, performing, and songwriting to this day—twenty-one years later. “My mom has been friends with Susie and Reba McEntire since the 80s,” Keenie says. “I definitely think (Susie) encouraging me to keep singing, and my parents investing their time into me, is when people started noticing that potentially there was more to my music than it just being a pastime.” Craig and Pam Nelson, Keenie’s God-parents, who, Keenie says, "are two of the most amazing people you’ll ever meet” also saw her potential too. Pam, who has been working at Rushmore Shadows Resort for as long as Keenie can remember, hired her to do her first solo show at age twelve. "That was pretty huge for me at that time. I can’t thank her enough for taking a chance on me,” Keenie recalls. Later, in her sophomore year, Keenie"got [her] first full time singing gig playing weekly night shows at the Ft. Hays Chuckwagon." She notes, "I still stay in contact with many of the players on the show. I love Ft. Hays and my time spent there.” Also, during that period, “Susie (McEntire) took me under her wing and started to mentor me and gave me a chance to perform with her." Keenie explains, "I worked with all kinds of amazing artists across South Dakota, including Linda Lee Harris and Soni Wilcox—who helped me learn to yodel. I would play anywhere and everywhere. I couldn’t get enough of it.” At the young age of eleven, as Keenie was experiencing unprecedented momentum in her career, she was simultaneously in the aftermath of a deep loss in her life. On a July afternoon in 2006, her father, while working on
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their ranch, had an accident and died a few hours later. “When my dad passed away, everything in my life changed. I had to grow up quickly,” Keenie says of this time. “My mom did such a great job raising me on her own. She worked so hard to allow me to live the best life I could.” She remembers “playing basketball with dad every night while the horses were eating, and waking up early before school to sit on dad’s lap as he read the Bible." She recalls, "My fondest memories will always be of when my family was whole, and my dad was with us.” That same year, Keenie and her Mom went to the capitol of country music where Susie was recording a new album. “I had dreamed of going to Nashville before I even knew where it was. I just knew somehow, someway I was going to end up there,” Keenie says. “Susie invited me down to visit and see how things were done. I went downtown on Music Row and I just remember absolutely beaming and feeling like I really finally belonged somewhere.” Through an introduction from Susie, Billy Aerts, who had helped develop young artists like Miley Cyrus and the Eli Young Band—and was producing Susie’s album—became Keenie’s producer. Keenie says she
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“was like a sponge” in the recording studio. Upon hearing the young Keenie sing for the first time, Billy said, “Wow. You’re country!! I love it!” At seventeen, Billie asked if Keenie would consider being in a duo. It was a good pairing; Aubree Bullock and Keenie Word went under the name “The Damsels” and worked together for four years. “Things really took off for us at a fast pace,” Keenie recalls. From opening at the MGM Grand for LoCash and Neal McCoy and then on to opening for Martina McBride, The Band Perry, and Chris Cagle, “the bookings just kept rolling in.” “I’ve been so fortunate to be able to travel all over the world playing my music and opening for artists/acts. My favorite trip of all was my trip to Africa in 2015," Keenie says. This is where Keenie met the man she would marry. At her and Aubree’s show on their last night in Djibouti, “two men from the crowd (were picked) to come on stage and have [Keenie and Aubree] sing to them." "I struggled because I could tell I was going to like this guy,” she says. After several months, in a long-distance relationship, Zach and Keenie married in 2017. In the upcoming months Keenie will be traveling to Oklahoma, West Virginia, Nevada, Alabama, and back to South
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Dakota for shows. Also, earlier this year, Brennley Brown from The Voice chose one of Keenie’s songs for her debut album. “I was so honored!" Keenie says. "My career has taken a lot of different paths but that’s not one I saw coming. I can’t wait to continue writing and hopefully have more success in that realm.” And with another new turn, Keenie recently had an acting part in a Lifetime production, Patsy and Loretta Forever, to be released later this year. But, over the years, she has learned not to take herself too seriously and tempers her celebrity. “Who knows? The way the editing goes, you might just see a shot of my nostril,” she quips. In another project, Keenie has partnered with Susie McEntire in organizing a retreat, Pamper Me, and encourages all to attend the Rapid City Pamper Me on Saturday, January 25th, 2020. “Check my Facebook for more details!" she says. Having moved from urban Nashville, Keenie, Zach, and their dogs, Harley and Penny, “who are [their] whole entire world,” live in a small one-stoplight town south of the city, where, she says, “There is a mom and pop diner and a farmer’s market every Saturday and the people make me feel like home.” Reflectively, Keenie comments, “I’ve lived a lot of life in my short 24 years. I have learned that I have an amazing God, and all I can say is that I’m really grateful. I wouldn’t change any of it for anything.” BHW
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The Girl Gives Back
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CYRISSA THOMPSON
THE GIRL GIVES BACK
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The Girl Gives Back
Describe the organization(s) you volunteer for and your role(s) within them. I have been serving on the Ups of Downs Family Support Group for seven years, four of which I served as secretary. Our purpose is to promote education, awareness and inclusion for individuals with Down Syndrome. We strive to have social outings for the kids and adults while supporting them in recreational activities such as swimming lessons and summer camp assistance. Since 2009, I have been an avid volunteer for the Central States Fair & Black Hills Stock Show. I started out as a runner, helping with minor tasks here and there at events and lending assistance wherever needed. Over time I took on more of a role within the organization, and for the past four years, I have grown to serve on the Membership, Public Relations/Marketing, and Stockman’s Banquet & Ball committees. During the school year, Great Western Bank is the business partner for Knollwood Elementary. Promoting Character Counts. Nine years ago, I started by assisting with the monthly pizza party to celebrate the K-5 students who worked hard to meet the criteria to be a Mighty Knight and reflect the pillars of good character. I have been the primary contact for the last six years and recruit employees to share the experience with. Knollwood Elementary also has a fantastic Career Day for 4th and 5th grade students that I have been attending for the last three years. I am fortunate to work for a company that strongly promotes giving back to our communities. Because of that, I have also been able to volunteer for other programs with one-off situations such as the United Way Day of Caring, packing baby’s first book bags, and packing meals at Feeding South Dakota with my Leadership Rapid City class of 2017. What led you to the organizations? A past former co-worker has a child with Down Syndrome and she asked if I would consider joining the board. I attended one meeting and was instantly hooked by the passion of the parents and volunteers, many of which are still serving today. In high school, I was enrolled in the Partnership Rapid City program and had the honor of interning for Ron Jeffries at the Central States Fair for two semesters. I then worked for the fair for a short time before starting my career with the bank. I still kept coming back to volunteer during events and eventually served on committees. Ron has been such a huge part of my life, both personally and professionally. Giving back through volunteering is part of my appreciation for all he has done.
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What motivates you to stay involved? The feeling that I may have the slightest positive impact on someone’s day is what motivates me to stay involved. I love the people I meet and knowing I am giving back, doing something beyond myself. It is also inspiring to see how my friends and mentors are making an impact through their organizations. Describe one of the favorite moments you’ve experienced while volunteering. My favorite experience while volunteering would have to be my first ever Buddy Walk with the Ups of Downs Family Support Group. The work leading up to that day was worth every minute to see the pure joy and excitement in the kids and their families. You could see how special and celebrated they felt! Why do you believe it is important to volunteer? I believe it is important to volunteer so that our community’s non-profit organizations can continue to thrive and provide support and resources to those that need it. It is also a way to show appreciation and gratitude to belong in such a great community. BHW
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The Girl Gives Back
722 & 724 St. Joseph St. Rapid City www.bakeworksrc.com www.suziecappaart.com Find Us BOTH on Social Media!
No Elephants Were Harmed in the Making of this Column By Dorothy Rosby
There’s a big box in my guest room containing one redneck
coloring book (never used), four pink flamingos (brandnew), one wrench beer opener (still in the package), and an assortment of other equally useful items. I keep the box there partly because my guest room has become something of a storage unit and partly because I’m hoping one of my guests will steal it from me.
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Elephant Gift Exchange. The term “white elephant” refers to a useless or troublesome possession, which is exactly what one receives during a White Elephant Gift Exchange. No elephants are exchanged at these events, which is lucky because my guest room isn’t that big.
Unfortunately, so far everyone who’s stayed with me has been too honest to steal. Or maybe they just have better taste.
The exchange goes by various other names including Rob Your Neighbor, Thieving Secret Santa, Grinch Exchange, and Yankee Swap. As far as I know, no Yankees are swapped either, though I could fit at least a couple of those in my guest room.
It’s okay though. I’m about to get rid of a few things. ‘Tis the season for that curious tradition known as the White
The rules vary, but basically, each participant supplies one amusing, impractical, or downright dumb gift such as a set of
Humor
muffin-top baking cups, a high-heel tape dispenser, or soap in the shape of false teeth. Attend a few White Elephant Gift Exchanges and you'll understand why it truly is better to give than to receive. Participants determine order; then the first person opens a wrapped gift and their turn ends. Everyone after that chooses a wrapped gift or steals from someone else who’s already selected. When someone’s gift is stolen, they can either choose another wrapped gift to open or steal from another player. The game is over when every participant has a useless item to store in their guest room. Throughout the exchange, those who don’t like their gifts, which is almost everyone, tries to persuade others to steal it. “This bacon cologne is so you. You know you want it.” “Come on! Everyone should have at least one propeller beanie.” It’s all quite entertaining, and I never want to do it again. I’ve had the dubious good fortune of attending many White Elephant Gift Exchanges, which explains my redneck coloring book, pink flamingos, and wrench beer opener. You didn’t think I bought those myself, did you? As someone who’s trying to downsize, it goes against everything in me to attend a social event and come home with something I don’t need, don’t want, and can’t regift in good conscience. With that in mind, here’s my strategy for winning at the White Elephant Gift Exchange game.
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1.
Before you choose a gift to bring to the party, make absolutely certain that it’s a White Elephant Gift Exchange you’re going to. You don’t want to be the only one who brings fuzzy dice, a talking trout, or something equally appealing to the party.
kidding. But the last person in the White Elephant Gift Exchange does have the advantage because he or she can choose the least dumb of all the dumb gifts. Still don’t cheat. It’s not worth ruining your reputation over. Or is it?
2.
4.
3.
Never choose the largest gift. A large box often contains many smaller boxes, all containing baby elephants. This is usually a sign that the giver is trying to pare down the selection of white elephant gifts in her guest room. Meanwhile, a small gift in an unattractive brown paper bag is often a gift card purchased on the way to the party by someone who nearly forgot about the occasion.
Never buy a white elephant gift. That’s a waste of money and it only encourages manufacturers to make more. Instead, dig through gifts you’ve been given. Often an item that was not intended to be a white elephant can easily pass for one. Just make sure the person who gave it to you won’t be at the party. Once at the party, make every effort to be the last person to choose your gift. Often order is chosen by drawing numbers. That means you’ll have to cheat. I’m
Never choose the most beautifully wrapped gift. Fancy wrapping is almost always a ploy by the giver to convince you to choose their Christmas Story leg lamp or the stocking cap with a beard attached.
5. 6.
If you get a gift you can tolerate, do all you can to discourage others from stealing it. Sneeze on it if you have to.
7.
Finally, if you really don’t want your gift, and most likely you won’t, “forget” it when you leave the party. I was once at a party where all thirty-some guests hid the gifts we’d received throughout our host’s home. That included the case of canned sardines I brought to give away. Our lucky hosts were finding sardines and white elephants until Valentine’s Day. The rest of us went home gift-free, if not guilt-free. Merry Christmas to us. (Call Dorothy Rosby if you are in the market for pink flamingos.) BHB
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Nicola Elizabeth Meeks Mixed Media Artist A WIndfall of Leaves
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Artist Profile
Like Falling in Love I became aware of my interest in design and composition when I was the Marketing Director for a casino in Deadwood. It is sort of like falling in love. When the real thing happens, there is no doubt. My journey as an artist has expressed itself in a number of forms, from jewelry design to making glass beads to silversmithing. Every medium that I have worked in has laid the foundation for all subsequent mediums. My work takes on two distinct forms: graphite drawings and mixed media paintings. The graphite pieces are precise and require me to operate in a linear, objective frame of mind, while the mixed media allows me to enter the more abstract side of my creativity.
Artist Profile
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Crimson Roots
The Tools Primarily, I use acrylic paints and combine them with archival gels and pastes. Pastes and gels not only extend the workability of the acrylic paints, but they allow me to explore the mystery, complexity, and depth of my pieces through the building of layers upon layers. On the flip side, I work with a range of graphite pencils, differing in various softness. HB is the hardest and 9B is the softest. 9B graphite is perfect for blending and creating shade and shadow. Mastering the Art In no way have I mastered my art. Ernest Hemingway said the important thing for a writer is to work everyday. The same holds true for any artistic pursuit. For that matter, it holds true for anyone trying to create anything that is challenging or difficult. Show up everyday and do the work. Often a finished piece is the result of an idea or image that has marinated in my subconscious for a very long time. Chronologically, depending on the piece, a graphite animal can take anywhere from two weeks to a month, sometimes longer. The acrylic mixed media may take roughly the same amount of time, although I usually begin a new piece and then let it simmer, returning to it again and again over a period of time, creating layers as I go. Themes, Messages, Subjects Some of my abstract pieces convey messages, but I often do not know what the message is until the piece Impromptu 56
Artist Profile
is completed. As a child growing up in the United Kingdom, I regularly visited the remnants of Roman settlements, medieval castles, and monasteries. In my work, I try to capture the mystery and wonder of the past as filtered through the lenses of my perception and experience. Often I have found that the most rewarding work begins with subjects that are difficult to capture, especially those pieces that I am ready to walk away from. For example, Impromptu was one of my most difficult and challenging pieces. I considered more than once giving up on it, but I continued until I had a breakthrough. Although Impromptu is now in a private collection in Colorado, it remains one of my cherished favorites because of the tough slogging it took to reach what I saw in my mind’s eye. My Inspiration There have been a potpourri of inspirations for me that include the Voynich Manuscript, Vincent van Gogh, Gustav Klimt, M.C. Escher, and Jackson Pollock. Rilke’s Letters to a Young Poet and Pressfield’s The War of Art have been invaluable in helping me think about the principles and the process of my art. I would urge any aspiring artist to follow his or her process, wherever it leads. Artists should try different mediums outside what is familiar and comfortable. My youngest daughter attended art school, and one day, I joined her in the school’s studio. While she finished an assignment, I passed the time by drawing in charcoal. I was utterly skeptical that I had any ability to draw the still life composition she had
Artist Profile
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5,000 years of civilization reborn
Shen Yun’S unique artistic vision expands theatrical experience into a multi-dimensional, inspiring journey through one of humanity’s greatest treasures— the five millennia of traditional Chinese culture. Featuring one of the world’s oldest art forms—classical Chinese dance—along with patented scenographical effects and all-original orchestral works, Shen Yun opens a portal to a civilization of profound wisdom and divine beauty. “It’s really out of this world! If I had to describe it, the words might be ‘Divine,’ ‘Reborn,’ and ‘Hope.’” —Christine Walevska, master cellist
“So much depth and beauty, and spiritual expression, and art. Amazing!” —Ola Rafalo, mezzo-soprano
One ShOw, Limited engagement
Secure the BeSt SeatS nOw!
March 24, 2020 | Rushmore Plaza Civic Center entirely neW 2020 PrOductiOn • accOmPanied by live Orchestra
ShenYun.com/CA
Presented by San FranciSco Falun Buddha Study aSSociation
arranged. After three hours, to my immense surprise, I had done a fair job at capturing the display. This was the first time I had ever sketched in charcoal. Back home in my studio, I began sketching a menagerie of animals in graphite. To date, I now have six completed graphite animals, with one in the works. It was only after my graphite exploration that I stepped off into painting in acrylic and mixed media. Finding My Work nicolameeks.com Dahl Arts Center in Rapid City until Nov 30th The Art Nest Gallery in Spearfish Alex Johnson Mercantile in Rapid City, SD BHW
Percy Alpaca
My favorite mixed media piece to date is Trails Through Time. The image in the center of this piece is a photograph I took of a gargoyle. The face can be found at Elvaston Castle, located just outside Derby, where I was born, a beautiful place where I spent many summers with my Nana. The ability to create something so intimately connected to my past— as well as the history of England—was profoundly fulfilling.
Neptune's Garden
Artist Profile
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Michelle Kane Director of the South Dakota Center for Enterprise Opportunity (SD CEO) Women’s Business Center
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Woman in Business
Tell us the story behind SD CEO. What’s the mission? The SD CEO launched in 2009 and is hosted by the Black Hills State University Foundation. We are partially funded by a grant from the Small Business Administration (SBA). While our office is in Spearfish, our mission is to work with entrepreneurs statewide. To accomplish this, we collaborate with other SBA resource partners, governmental agencies, and economic development organizations to expand our reach and provide the best and most convenient services to clients across the state in all phases of entrepreneurship. What do you think is the smartest career decision you’ve made? Applying for the job I am in now! The work I do is really an accumulation of my past 25+ years in business—working for large corporations, as a consultant, for small businesses, and as an entrepreneur. There are few situations where I haven’t “been there, done that.” I also feel like I am truly making a difference in the lives of the women and men I work with every day. I’ve learned to “never say never” when it comes to my career.
WOMAN IN BUSINESS
Briefly describe the business you are in and your role. I’m in the business of assisting aspiring entrepreneurs launch new ventures help existing entrepreneurs grow their business and provide workforce development training when it comes to both entrepreneurs AND intrapreneurs. The word "intrapreneur" might be a new word to many. It has been around for decades but not used much. I’d like to change that because there is a huge focus on the need for innovation in business. To me, it describes a person who works for a company, a non-profit, or for someone else but still uses the tools of the entrepreneur— perseverance, innovation, resilience, grit, and creativity—to create something new in their workplace. This often can increase the bottom line of their organization AND help them move forward in their own career, wherever their career takes them. It’s a win- win for the company and the person. I am an intrapreneur.
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What has been your greatest career challenge and how have you overcome it? It’s a continual balancing act being a working mom. When you have a child with autism, those challenges get amplified. We have worked hard to put together a great support team for our son. I’ve also come to realize that I can’t do it all on my own. Asking for and accepting help is hard but it’s something I’ve had to overcome since I wanted both a family and a career. Accepting imperfection in myself has been one of my greatest life lessons. What advice would you give to those with a product or idea to launch? Call me! I find that most people who are starting a business or have a new product or idea have no idea of the free business advising services available across the state under the umbrella of the SBA. Together, we can assist with business plan guidance, marketing strategies, cash flow projections, financials, and helping people get lender ready. Even after launch, we can plug new entrepreneurs into networking groups, workshops, and conferences to stay fresh and on top of their game. What are the biggest challenges to women in business? In South Dakota, we have a low percentage of women-owned businesses (the most recent Census survey ranks South Dakota 46th in the nation for women-owned small businesses that have employees) so we don’t have as many role models for thinking big and for considering what is possible when a women wants to start a business in our state. Those trailblazing women who are running companies or, for that matter, working for a corporation or non-profit in our state are pretty tapped when it comes to involvement in the community and leadership. This means that there are just not as many women able to open doors for midcareer and younger women. I’ve learned that we need to find those doors, open them ourselves … and break a few windows along the way! What habits have made you successful? I love trying out new things or, as I say, “experiments.” One habit that REALLY works for me has to do with my morning routine. My “rule” is that I do not have my coffee in the morning until I exercise for 30 minutes. It can be a walk, a YouTube video, stretching, whatever, but the key is that I have to do SOME KIND of movement before I pour myself a cup. I’ve found that you have to find something that will really motivate you and for me, it is coffee, and the most important part…something I could look forward to DAILY.
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Woman in Business
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No one does it alone. Tell us about the most influential people who have assisted you in your venture. So many women have helped me become the person I am today. My story doesn’t include having this amazing mentor that guided my every step, though. It was countless people along the way who did small things, like a call of encouragement, saying in front of others “I was the person for the job,” highlighting my abilities when I wasn’t in the room, even leaving a LinkedIn review or sending an atta girl card. In addition, my mom texts me a picture of something she’s grateful for every day to let me know she is thinking about me. It really is the little things that have helped me have the confidence to do big things.
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What’s your favorite story from SD CEO? There are so many! Seeing women step towards the path of entrepreneurship, or taking their side gig more seriously, applying for a promotion, joining a board or seeing them become more confident and capable … that just makes my heart sing. The ripple effect is huge and the positive momentum is contagious. I know you can see this happening in your circle because I can sure see it in mine! Disclaimer: “Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.” BHW
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Atlanta B
WOlack Hil MA ls N
DE T R ST O P Se IN R I A ri AT
es IO N
By Emily Pitz
ta a n a i Atl eorg G T
E LIN R I A tiple l Mu GH I L F OP NST NO
TE DA und o -R
r Yea
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Travel
This multi-part destination series will feature the fascinating cities you can experience through nonstop flights offered in Rapid City. Discover the amazing adventures each of these major cities have to offer, as well as the allure of worldwide travel through direct services. Atlanta, the capitol city of Georgia, offers Southern charm and rich history as one of the most popular destinations in the Southeast. Visitors to the area can enjoy world-famous attractions, historic sites, diverse neighborhoods, and outstanding restaurants. It is a melting pot for dozens of cultures and has been a center for the arts over the years. No matter your age, you will find no shortage of activities to explore in Atlanta. Kid-Friendly Attractions Atlanta is an amazing destination for family fun. Engaging and educational attractions are plentiful for kids throughout the metro area. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta offers hands-on exploration and discovery, which allow kids to learn through the power of play. Parents are welcome to join in on the fun while creating family memories. The High Museum of Art provides countless things for kids to do, from toddlers to teens. A collection of over 17,000 pieces of art ranging from 19th and 20th century American works, African art, European paintings, decorative arts, photography, and contemporary works fill the region’s most famous art museum. Works by Monet, Degas, and Renoir are some of the most well-known pieces on display at the High. Guests can roam freely through six interactive learning zones, and age-focused programming encourages children to discover and appreciate the arts at an early age. The Georgia Aquarium, the second-largest aquarium in the world, holds tens of thousands of animals in over 10 million gallons of water. The attraction offers some of the world’s largest viewing windows where you can observe beluga whales, whale sharks, manta rays, penguins, sea otters, dolphins, and many more amazing aquatic animals.
Photo Credits: f11 photo/shutterstock.com Travel
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Must-See Locations Your Instagram followers won’t believe your photos after you've visited the Atlanta Botanical Garden. One of the most beautiful outdoor attractions in downtown Atlanta, the Garden includes permanent exhibits of Japanese, rose, orchid, and herb gardens, as well as woodland areas. With more than 30 acres of breathtaking botanical displays, you’ll definitely capture numerous awe-inspiring photos.
High Museum of Art
The MLK Jr. National Historic Park is one of the most meaningful and important landmarks in Atlanta. This popular destination includes Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s childhood home, church, and final resting place. Also known as The King Center, the attraction is dedicated to preserving and sharing the civil rights legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. A popular downtown attraction, Zoo Atlanta is located just minutes from I-20 in the Historic Grant Park area. It offers many interactive exhibits and a vast collection of animals, including elephants, lemurs, lions, and gorillas. Birds like owls, kookaburras, and ostriches are also on exhibit, as well as more than 70 species of reptiles and amphibians, including anacondas, pythons, and African crocodiles. If you’re more of a science and history enthusiast, you won’t want to miss Fernbank Museum of Natural History. The museum features a multitude of hands-on exhibits for scientists of all ages. Visitors encounter dinosaurs, cultural artifacts, live animals, and science experiments, just to name a few. Named as one of the “Top 10 Dinosaur Destinations in the World” by USA Today and CNN Travel, the Fernbank Museum is an excellent place to be amazed by the size of these prehistoric beasts. No trip to Atlanta is complete without visiting Centennial Olympic Park. The 22-acre destination, once the site of the outstanding 1996 Summer Olympics, now acts as a public greenspace. The Park features all-encompassing city views, beautifully landscaped gardens, and community events. Locals and visitors alike love the Sky View Ferris Wheel, beautiful fountains, sprawling grass areas, and a water feature that is the highlight of the summer. Recently, Atlanta has grown into a major food destination. Visitors to the city can experience new takes on local Southern comfort favorites, from grit scuffle with butternut squash and collard green pistou at White Oak Kitchen and Cocktails to Georgia trout with bacon and lemon breadcrumbs at JCT Kitchen. You definitely won’t be disappointed by Atlanta’s diverse culinary scene. Whether you’ve visited Atlanta numerous times or you’re planning your first trip to A-Town, there’s always something new to discover. From family-friendly attractions to must-see history and science exhibits to beautiful parks and fascinating animals, you’ll have plenty of adventures to experience. BHW
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Travel
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Prepare Your Kids for Careers in an AI-Driven FutureWorld by Kimberly Blaker
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Many parents today never experienced a world where computers weren't a standard household fixture, let alone a world without the Internet. When the World Wide Web first became available to the public in 1991, it was archaic compared to today. Yet at the time, it was quite the phenomenon. But the rapid speed of technological progress over the past couple of decades will resemble the crawl of a tortoise in another decade or two as technology continues to advance at an exponential rate. In fact, according to Ray Kurzweil, a worldrenowned inventor, thinker, and futurist, “We won't experience 100 years of progress in the 21st century—it will be more like 20,000 years of progress (at today's rate).� If you have any doubt, Kurzweil has a remarkable thirty-year track record of making accurate predictions. This means the rapid change in recent years is nothing compared to what's to come. The world in which tomorrow's young adults will enter will be startlingly different from the one in which we live today. That's because our world is increasingly dependent on robotics, technology, and, now, artificial intelligence (AI). But what is AI? Short for artificial intelligence, it's machines or programs with the capabilities of human intelligence. AI capabilities include learning, presenting knowledge, reasoning, problemsolving, planning, perception, manipulation, and motion. Right now, AI is in its infancy, and much of what's purported to be AI is actually pseudoAI. Whether imitation or the real thing, there are
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several current AI technologies: chatbots, Tesla, Siri and Alexa, Facebook feed, and Pandora, to name a few—and AI is on the brink of changing the world as we know it. But with all good things come drawbacks. Within the next 20 years, AI will result in a loss of anywhere between 9 and 47 percent of jobs, according to various studies by Oxford University and other institutions. Kids must be fully prepared for our vastly changing world and careers of the future. HOW TO PREPARE KIDS FOR THE FUTURE JOB MARKET Bolster interest and enthusiasm in STEM. Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) skills are one of the gateways to job opportunities in a world dependent on AI. But to many kids, "science" and "math" spell boring with a capital "B." This is in large part because kids can't always see how these disciplines apply to life. Unless your child already expresses genuine interest in one or more of these disciplines, discussing STEM may be met with resistance. The trick is to provide kids with everyday experiences that put the fun in learning or provide kids with experiences that are a natural part of life. Once you've gained their interest, then explain its relationship to STEM. That way, your child has a positive perspective on the discipline and recognizes its purpose and value. Stimulate spatial awareness. This is an integral part of STEM learning and provides kids with the ability to visualize their end product, says David Lubinski, a psychology professor at Vanderbilt University. He is the lead author of a study published in Psychological Science, July 15, 2013. Researchers found spatial ability is a predictor of the development of knowledge and innovation in STEM fields. Encourage free play and out-of-the-box thinking. Play fosters imagination, creativity, and resilience to deal with challenges. These traits will be necessary to succeed in an ever-advancing world of AI. When kids play freely, they experiment, explore, and dismantle (things, scenarios, and concepts) to understand how the world works. Play is one of the best ways for kids to learn and develop skills. Develop kids' ability to deal with the real world. Dave and Helen Edwards, co-founders of Intelligenstia.ai, an AI research firm, point out there will still be careers in the future that are dependent on human capabilities. In "The skills your kids should cultivate to be competitive in the age of automation," the Edwards explain humans will still be needed for jobs that require interpersonal skills, applying math to business problems, management of our physical world (environmental science and engineering), and providing health care. People will remain ahead of robots in these areas for some time. Foster social skills and teamwork. These will be valuable assets in the future workforce. Collaboration requires a combination of skills and traits: emotional intelligence, humility, communication, listening, conflict resolution, goal setting, prioritizing, decision making, and framing problems.
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Emotional intelligence is particularly crucial to the development of excellent social skills and teamwork. Both interpersonal and intrapersonal skills are the framework for emotional intelligence. Interpersonal skills include social awareness and relationship management, while intrapersonal skills include self-awareness and self-regulation. Cultivate entrepreneurial characteristics and skills. Even though automation and technology will reduce the need for laborers, people will always be needed to develop and manage companies. In addition, the growing trend toward companies outsourcing and hiring independent professionals for a broad range of needs is likely to continue and become more common. Some essential entrepreneurial skills kids should develop are financial literacy, goal setting, problem-solving, creativity, and good work habits. In his article "These Are the Skills That Your Kids Will Need for the Future (Hint: It's Not Coding)," Greg Satell says the tech skills of tomorrow will be vastly different from today; By the time kids grow up, computer programming will no longer be based on current coding languages. It'll be based "more on quantum laws and the human brain," he explains. But because the future of computer programming is unknown, there's no way to teach it to kids. Satell recommends kids learn more about quantum dynamics, the logic of code, and genetics, on which future systems will be based. Still, learning to code has its benefits. It's true learning a coding language of today will unlikely be of any use in the future. But learning how to learn a code can make learning future codes easier. Coding also helps kids develop problem-solving skills. Finally, it's an excellent way for kids to discover a career path and boost their self-confidence in a STEM discipline. BHW
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Santa's Letters 1
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51. “I ---- Little Prayer”
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52. Gasteyer or Ortiz
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45. Term of affection 47. Bassia scoparia, seen in abundance and turning purple now
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36. Neither fem. nor neut.
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59. Zoroastrian 61. Military survey, briefly 63. Yellow flower used in alternative medicine 66. Summer TV fare
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67. Utah city about 500 miles away 68. Peruvian native 69. Generate 70. Barrett and Butler
ACROSS 1. Law killed by the Supreme Court in 2015
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17. Iris Missouriensis, seen in Custer State Park
71. It’s between us and Can.
20. Ford lemon
5. Victorian expletive
21. Actress Teri and kin
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9. Ball field boundary
22. Plastic finish?
1. Wooden pin
14. Black Hills (----)-Top Tours
23. Tigers of the SEC
2. Think pieces
15. “Hurlyburly” playwright
24. It can be lent or bent
3. Botch
16. Homer wower
26. Screenplay abbrs.
4. Casino Admission?
Crossword
5. Bobble
29. ---- razor (law of parsimony)
54. Puccini opera
6. Lack of blood flow can lead to it
30. Properly prepped
55. Display stealth
7. “Mamma Mia!” group
31. McShane of “Deadwood”
8. Val Verde County seat
32. Jazz org.
56. Purchase at the Staple & Spice Market (601 Mount Rushmore)
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33. Superlative suffix
10. Santa's Helper
36. The Dahl or The Journey: abbr.
11. West ---- virus
37. Tempe sch.
12. Scott of “Hawaii Five-O”
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62. Glen ---- School (first public school in the Black Hills)
40. Worked at Al’s D&I (3483 Sturgis Road)
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18. Colleague of Clarence and Ruth 19. Samovars
41. Purchase at Dakota Treasures (1601 Mount Rushmore Road)
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49. Like the lords in “The 12 Days of Christmas”
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57. History 58. Jewell of “The Facts of Life” 60. Nimble
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Answers - Santa's Letters 1
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f e n c e m a e g a d 15 16 i l i a d e n r a b e 18 19 s t e r n b l u e f l a g 22 21 e n e s e l g a r r s 25 24 26 27 u e a r i n t s 29 30 31 32 33 28 p o nd e r o s a p i n e 34 35 c a i n e s l a b s 36 37 38 40 41 39 42 m a s c t e a r y a n A T 44 46 43 45 U S U A L D E A R Y 48 49 50 47 S U MM E R C Y P R E S S 54 55 51 52 53 S A Y A A N a E T s 56 57 58 60 62 59 61 HO G P A R S I R E C O N 64 65 63 E V E N I N G P R I M R O S E 66 67 68 R E R U N O R E M I N C A 69 70 71 S Y D S ND A K B R I N G
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