Sect. 4 Our Towns 2023

2022 Business Overview

Business owners expanded their current ventures and entrepreneurs opened new businesses in the Northern Hills in 2022. This overview shares the new services and products available to area communities.

Anke’s Bakery

Anke’s Bakery now has a garage space at 505 Grant St., Belle Fourche, where Anke Townsdin sells her organic breads, including long-fermented sourdough and German pastries. Starting business as a food truck vendor in 2015, Townsdin now has a permanent location and also offers baking workshops. The bakery will serve panini lunches and pizza via a walk-up window with outdoor seating this summer.

Basecamp Kitchen

Basecamp Kitchen has a new name and a new location, but still provides genuine Indian and Nepalese food now at 541 W. Jackson Blvd., Spearfish. Owner Sajan Baniya changed the name of Himalayan Indian Cuisine to Basecamp Kitchen to avoid confusion with similar restaurants in other cities. “We offer dine-in and takeout, homemade, gluten-free, healthy food like butter chicken, lamb, and biryani fried rice.”

Buggy Bath Car Wash

Buggy Bath Car Wash completed renovations in August 2022. Located in Spearfish at 1700 N. Main St., Buggy Bath now has a 70-foot express tunnel with hand prep of each car and unique coatings to make your car stand out, in addition to 24-hour no-touch automatic, self-service car wash bays, and a dog wash. Owners Jay and Tracy Johnson are the second family owners in this business’ 40-year history. Monthly unlimited wash subscriptions are available with 50 percent off the first month.

Dark Days Tattoo

Dark Days Tattoo moved to 540 Heritage Dr., Spearfish. Owner Matt Clark has 11 years of tattooing experience and provides custom tattoos by appointment only.

Dollar General

Dollar General opened in August at 1 North 5th Ave., Belle Fourche. Store Manager Melissa Wamsher said the store offers products for daily needs at a low price including “a little bit of everything with merchandise that is constantly changing.”

Farm Bureau Financial Services

Farm Bureau Financial Services agent Heath Hekrdle opened an office in September at 3105 W. Fairgrounds Loop, Suite 3, Spearfish. “We offer a wide variety of products including home, auto, life, commercial, and annuities,” says Hekrdle.

Ginny Wolf Gallery & Studio

Ginny Wolf Gallery & Studio relocated in September from Cheyenne Crossing to the Bullock Hotel at 633 Main St., in Deadwood. Ginny Wolf sells jewelry, refurbished vintage hats, leather, and skull art. She also represents several artists in South Dakota and New Mexico, providing their fine arts, fine crafts, and curated gifts in her gallery.

Hairapy

Hairapy, specializing in permanent electrolysis hair removal, opened in December at 3105 W. Fairgrounds Loop, Suite 6, Spearfish. Free consultations are available by appointment. Beauty technician Chandi Zimmerschied said she uses “the

Heartfelt Quilt Shop opened in January 2022 at 640 Heritage Dr., Spearfish. Pioneer photo by Sidnee Short

only FDA approved method to permanently remove hair. The thermolysis technique removes hair and is for any area of the body, and for any hair or skin type.”

Hampton Inn – Lead

Hampton Inn – Lead opened in June at 900 Miners Ave. General manager Nicole Coons said the new Hilton property has 95 rooms, covered parking and a fitness area. Small meeting rooms for business use are also available.

Heartfelt Quilt Shop

Heartfelt Quilt Shop opened in January 2022 at 640 Heritage Dr., Spearfish. Owner Marla Elsom said the shop offers fabrics, notions and gifts, along with quilting classes and clubs. “We do longarm quilting,” says Elsom. “Customers can bring us their completed quilt top and we quilt to the batting and backing.”

Hot Shots Ice Cream

Hot Shots Ice Cream opened its doors to customers in November. Located at 603 5th Ave., in Belle Fourche, owner Greg Mondillo sells homemade ice cream, fudge, barista coffee, boba tea, and lunch sandwiches. Mondillo says, “In addition to regular ice cream, we do off-the-wall specialty flavors like jalapeno cheesecake and candied bacon, using local vendors as much as possible.”

In the Black Bookkeeping

In the Black Bookkeeping is located at 1113 5th Ave., in Belle Fourche. Megan Erk and Cassie Richardson bought the business, formerly known as CLC & Associates in Spearfish, in 2021 and relocated to Belle Fourche in January 2023. “We provide general bookkeeping services including payroll, sales and excise tax reports, and quarterly reports,” says Erk.

Independent Bookkeeping + Tax

Independent Bookkeeping + Tax moved to a new location in November 2021, now residing at 4415 E. Colorado Blvd, Suite 2, Spearfish. Bruce Harmon owns the business and his wife Michelle Harmon is a CPA with 30 years of accounting experience. “We are both BHSU graduates. We have experience with gaming and gaming taxes, sales tax, starting a business, and establishing sales tax IDs and EINs,” says Michelle.

Ink and Lasers

Ink and Lasers, a one-stop shop for custom promotional products, was purchased by Gavin Martz in March. Located at 320 S. 26th St., Suite 1, in Spearfish, Ink and Lasers provides digital and screen printing, embroidery, laser engraving, and wide format printing for stickers, signs, banners, and magnets.

Inner Peace Pathways

Inner Peace Pathways was launched in August by Tammy Wagendorf and is located at 201 W. Main St., Suite 302A, Lead. Wagendorf is a reiki practitioner offering energy healing for both humans and animals. She also provides akashic

records consultations helping her clients to navigate through personal relationships, finances, and opportunities.

Ivory Family Dentistry

Ivory Family Dentistry, formerly known as Crosswait Dental, was purchased by Bryce Wilen, DDS, in 2021. Dr. Wilen and his team of three fulltime hygienists provide basic dental services for whole family at 1310 North Ave., in Spearfish. Dr. Wilen also provides extractions, some root canal treatments, myofunctional therapy, laser frenectomy and frenuloplasty. In the fall, the practice will begin providing dental implants.

Jordan’s Got a Gun

Jordan’s Got a Gun, a tattoo studio specializing in black and grey fine line tattoos, opened in June in downtown Spearfish. Owner Jordan Rupp first opened her studio in Sturgis and has since relocated to 517 N Main St., Suite A, inside Sunshine Medical Associates.

Kids Point

Kids Point opened a new site in the summer of 2022 catered to the needs of school-aged children ages 6-12. Located at 535 N. 7th St., in Spearfish, the new site features a Lego and video game rooms, a playhouse, arcade games, sports arena, and a foam pit with a slide. Owners Kendra and Tanner McGinnis offer afterschool care at the new location. Registration is open for their fulltime summer camp.

A HOMETOWN STORE FOR ALL YOUR QUILTING NEEDS

• 2 levels with classrooms for a variety classes and clubs, individual quilters

• Large selection of fabrics: widebacks, batiks, flannel, stonehenge, grunge, kids, novelty, quilt kits, wool + more

• Large selections of threads: Presencia thread, Aurifil sewing machine thread, Cosmo embroidery floss, Eleganza Perle Cotton thread

• Notions, supplies, African baskets

• And so much more!

Large number of clubs - Join today!

M-F: 9am - 5pm • Sat: 10am - 3pm

640 Heritage Drive, Spearfish

(605) 717-2545 • heartfeltquilt.com

BUSINESS Pg 3

L and K Painting

L and K Painting opened in August. Owner Stan Lajoie brings seven years of experience to his business which offers exterior and interior house painting for new construction and remodels, drywall patches, deck and fence staining throughout the Northern Hills.

Market on Main

Market on Main is a park for food trucks and other vendors located at 446 Main St., Spearfish. Owners Scott and Laura Odenbach purchased the lot in 2022 and plan to launch Family Food Truck Nights this spring and summer. Watch the Market on Main Facebook page for updates.

Modern Woodmen

Fraternal Financial

Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial relocated in December to 611 Dahl Rd., Suite 2, in Spearfish where managing partner Rodney Bechtold and financial representative Michael Sehlmeyer provide life insurance, retirement planning, and financial services.

Nine8Culture

Nine8Culture sells modern and vintage comic books, toys and collectibles at 123 E. Jackson Blvd., Spearfish. Owners Allen Conradsen, Weston Pleinis, and Randy Lepthien launched the shop in December.

“Our hope for the business is to give people with an interest in pop culture collectibles a place to come and shop, talk about their hobby and interests, or just browse for the nostalgia of seeing things they had as a kid.”

Principal Financial Network

Principal Financial Network has a new name as of April 2022. Formerly known as Waddell & Reed, the family-run financial services firm located at 519 State Street in Belle Fourche is still run by Cindy Giacometto along with Adam Woxland. “We are a full-fledged broker helping people plan for retirement, college, and long-term care through IRAs, financial advice, and investment planning,” says Giacometto.

PSP Metal Solutions

PSP Metal Solutions is a custom metal fabricator and manufacturer of high-quality metal products. The shop opened in January 2023 at 80

Commerce Drive in Spearfish and is managed by Mike Kemp. PSP uses sheet metal to design and build custom products, from handrails for homes to commercial kitchens.

Rebel Rose

Rebel Rose offers unique fashion for women along with accessories at 615 State St., in Belle Fourche. Owner Brittany Miller says the boutique, which opened in February 2022, offers a good mix of casual, modern, and trending women’s fashion.

Rushmore Bikes

Rushmore Bikes relocated to 3105 W. Fairgrounds Loop, Spearfish, in January 2022. Owner Jesse Hansen says the new, larger space comes with its own parking lot for easy load/unload of bikes and access to the highway for out-of-town customers. In its 23rd year in business, Rushmore Bikes continues to provide “bike maintenance and sales, specializing in performance mountain bikes and gravel bikes along with electric-assist bikes (e-bikes) and kids bikes,” says Hansen.

Seed & Sow Clothing

iLevel Construction LLC, Black Hawk, has been serving the Black Hills area for over 4 years. They build custom homes from start to finish, small and large detached shops and remodels/additions. They are also a Certified Septic System Installer and have earned a Rapid City Contractor – Building Class B.

Jason Pedersen along with his 8 crew members are very respectful and professional. They take great pride in jobsite cleanliness and quality craftsmanship.

To make your dream a reality, contact Jason today at 605-638-3040. Or visit www. ilevelconstructionllc.com to learn more.

Bradeen Auctions was founded by Bert Bradeen in 1923, passed down to his son, Bob Bradeen and is today owned and operated by Bob’s son, Ron Bradeen. With a century of service credited to the firm, Bradeen Auctions continues to serve their customers and conduct auctions locally and nationwide, specializing in Real Estate, Bison Auctions and much more. Award-winning brochures and advertisements; professional signage; timely advertising that targets key audiences; with friendly and knowledgeable staff all play a role in making your auction the best it can be. Knowing the customers and their stories allows them to better market the property and realize the full potential of the auction. Bradeen Auctions’ proven method has achieved impressive results, realizing a higher return than any conventional transaction, with most well in excess of the seller’s expectations.

BLACK HILLS PHYSICAL THERAPY

For over 25 years, Black Hills Physical Therapy has been committed to providing evidence-based physical therapy services to ensure our patients receive the highest quality care in rural America.

Our dedicated team of Doctors of Physical Therapy pride themselves on providing direct 1:1 patient care, personalized to each individual patient in order to ensure the most successful outcomes. We treat all musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions with advanced specializations in manual therapy, hand therapy, vestibular/balance disorders, jaw pain and headaches, post-concussion syndromes, industrial medicine, and women's/pelvic health, among others.

We are committed to exceptional service from your first phone call to your successful completion of care and look forward to working with you!

We are located at 520 N Canyon St in Spearfish. Visit us at BlackHillsPT.com or call 605-642-7996 to schedule an evaluation today.

MJ PLUMBING INC.

With over 12 years as a family, woman owned business MJ Plumbing provides all aspects of plumbing, service, new and old construction, and much more! Giving back to their community is important and they do so in not only donations but volunteering as well.

They get a lot of questions on their logo, which stems from the owners, Theresa and Anthony, both growing up in Chicago. When they made the choice to open their business and thinking of a business name they thought of their 4 kids Markus, Mathew, Jasmine and Juliet and wanted their business name to involve them. So MJ it was and with them growing up watching Michael Jordan they fit the logo with some design work. Copy written so it would officially be theirs!

For any plumbing needs contact MJ Plumbing Inc. at 605-641-8881, www.mjplumbingsd.com.

Seed & Sow Clothing, located at

Rushmore Bikes relocated to 3105 W. Fairgrounds Loop, Spearfish, in January 2022. Pioneer file photo

BUSINESS Pg 4

Founded in 1983, MetroPlains Management, LLC has grown to become the upper midwest’s leading provider in the affordable housing industry. We currently manage over 6,100 housing units and approx. 435,000 sq. ft. of commercial space throughout South Dakota, Minnesota, North Dakota, Kansas, and Oklahoma.

Our specialty services include property management, commercial property management, market analysis, accounting, asset management, compliance consulting, and physical asset managing.

With over 38 years of experience, our dedication and quality service allows us to strive professionally through managing commercial, retail or residential properties.

For more information, call 605-347-3077.

741 N. Main St., Spearfish, is a children’s clothing store for infants to size 12. Stephanie Lightfield opened the shop in June and says, “We are a place in the Northern Hills area where you can go to find unique, high-quality children’s clothing and gifts. Think of us the next time you’re shopping for a baby shower gift or for clothes for family photos.”

SML Tires

SML Tires was purchased in October by John and Mary Cronk. Located at 1909 5th Ave., in Belle Fourche, SML handles all your tire and automotive needs including alignment, shocks, struts, suspension, and oil changes. U-Haul trucks and trailers can also be rented through SML Tires.

Founded in 1980, Spearfish Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) is a private non-profit dedicated to improving lives by creating economic opportunities for the Spearfish commuity and its residents.

SEDC's primary areas of focus are business retention and attraction, workforce recruitment, and entrepreneurial support. For more information on joining SEDC and supporting economic growth in the Spearfish community, contact SEDC at (605) 642-3832 or visit www.SpearfishDevelopment.com.

Southside Conoco

Southside Conoco in Belle Fourche was purchased in January 2022 by John and Mary Cronk. Located at 625 7th Ave., the full-service gas station has been in operation since 1926 and provides only high-end tier gasoline, no ethanol. U-Haul services are also available from this location.

Spearfish Paint

For over 68 years, Liechty Homes has been providing distinctive, energy efficient, and affordable manufactured and modular homes throughout the Midwest.

Locally owned in 5 locations, we take great effort and attention to customer satisfaction, quality materials and competitive pricing.

Liechty Homes is proud of the longstanding association with Schult Homes and BonnaVilla Homes, two of the highest quality manufacturers in the Midwest. We are your Five Star Customer Awards dealer.

You will always receive great customer service from our friendly and knowledgeable staff!

See more at www.liechtyhomes.com

11802 JB Road, Black Hawk, SD, 605-787-4841

JUST FOR LOOKS BOUTIQUE

Just For Looks Boutique is a women’s clothing and gift boutique specializing in missy clothing sizes Small thru 3X.

The owners Tina Hopson and Kami Grubl have been involved in the Sturgis Community for most of their lives. And for 10 years have enjoyed offering a wide variety of products to the Sturgis community.

They take great pride in offering quality clothing for all women.

The friendly relaxing environment makes it a great place to shop where you come in as a customer and leave as a friend.

Located at 1006 Main Street, Sturgis.

Spearfish Paint moved into the Spearfish Building Supply building and business, 821 N. Canyon St., in June. Manager Robert Gudahl said the paint shop carries Benjamin Moore and Diamond Vogel paints and stains for interior and exterior design.

Spearfish Pawn

Spearfish Pawn opened its doors in June at 529 N Main St. Owner Adam Seneca runs this traditional pawn shop which offers cash for used items and then resells them to the public.

Sublime Salon

Sublime Salon specializes in blonds and haircuts, and also provides men’s cuts, all coloring, facial waxing, and wedding hair and styling. Owner Kaytlin Hughes launched Sublime in August at 3157 E. Colorado Blvd. in Spearfish.

Sunshine Medical Aesthetics

Sunshine Medical Aesthetics opened its doors in April 2022 at 517 N. Main St., Suite A, in Spearfish. Nurse practitioner Phoebe Breede and an on-site esthetician offer comprehensive skincare services including Botox and dermal fillers and medical-grade skin care treatments in -

cluding facials.

The Wild Bluebell

The Wild Bluebell opened in January 2022 at 723 7th Ave., Belle Fourche. The boutique is veteran-owned by Brittany Wilkinson and sells women’s casual apparel sizes small through 3x. Customers will also find home décor, some furniture, accessories, American Darling handbags, and shoes in the shop.

Urban Hair

Urban Hair changed locations in August to expand its salon business. Now located at 3025 1st Ave., Suite 5, in Spearfish, owner Ana Rath and her stylists offer haircuts and hair color services, facials,

waxing, and microblading. “We also have an in-house barber and accept walk-ins,” said Rath.

WM Heating and Cooling

WM Heating and Cooling, located at 18653 US-85 in Belle Fourche, opened in October 2021. Owner Wyatt McCoy provides HVAC repair services to his hometown of Belle along with Newell, Deadwood, Sturgis and Spearfish. “We service heating and cooling systems in residential homes, including diagnostics and preventive maintenance. We also work on mini splits.”

The Wild Bluebell opened in January 2022 at 723 7th Ave., Belle Fourche. Pioneer photo by Christine Jewett

For more than 15 years Partridge Financial has been dedicated to helping you pursue financial security.

We can help you execute a sound financial program utilizing the following products and services: Tax planning strategies, Investment strategies, Retirement strategies, Estate conservation strategies, along with Insurance and annuity products.

Our two office locations are in Spearfish and Rapid City.

Contact Jeff Partridge by calling 605-7917278 or emailing jeff@partridgefinancial.com.

THE GLASS SHOP

Greater Sturgis LifeCare Foundation supports and promotes health care for the elderly

Wade and Kendra Beringer, owners of The Glass Shop along with their experienced staff, have been providing residential and commercial glass glazing for 15 years.

They use only high-quality products and offer installation and repairs on a wide range of products. The Glass Shop’s expertise in glazing has won them many Master Craftmanship Awards for custom showers, specialty glass, curtainwalls, storefronts and automatic entrances. Visit their website at www.theglassshop.net for more information and to view samples of their work or stop in their shop at 436 E Colorado Blvd Spearfish, SD.

Brian & Nikki Hettinger, of Black Hills Implant & Family Dental, are celebrating 1 year of business on May 2nd.

We provide a wide range of dental services to help our patients maintain a healthy and bright smile. Our services include general dentistry, cleanings, whitening, orthodontic treatment, dentures, implants and emergency visits.

We are a local, family-owned business, with 10 employees, providing high-quality, patient-focused dental care. We treat our patients with compassion, respect, and integrity.

We enjoy serving our community and providing the best dental care and experience possible to our patients.

Located at 1300 Junction Ave., Sturgis 605-347-5103 | Blackhills.dental

B y T im P o TT s Black Hills Pioneer STURGIS — The Greater Sturgis LifeCare Foundation (GSLF) was organized in 2004 to support and promote elderly care and health care in the greater Sturgis area and has provided nearly $1.3M in financial support to projects in the area. The foundation was established as a non-profit organization that was funded through a capital campaign and funds received from a charitable asset settlement.

A 12-member board meets quarterly to get updates on review requests that can improve the health and wellness of their respective communities, with emphasis on projects that benefit the elderly and provide for the continued availability of healthcare within the community.

GSLF Board takes great pride in the contributions they have been able to make to local Monument Health Hospital in Sturgis,” said Sabers.

HomeSource Furniture & Floors is a family owned and operated business specializing in high quality furniture, flooring, and home decor. With a passion to walk with you each step of the way in making your house a true home, HomeSource strives to offer a wide variety of brands and styles to appeal to every taste and any budget.

Since moving to a larger and newer building in 2019, HomeSource has been able to offer even more to their customers including carrying a variety of top-selling selections in stock. With over 100,000 sq. ft. of flooring, from carpet and tile to luxury wood and vinyl, you are sure to find the perfect fit for your home and family.

Stop by the new Spearfish location at 2535 E. Colorado Blvd., visit homesourceff.com, or call 642-3822 to explore a tremendous variety of options for your home.

“The community of Sturgis joined together in 2004 to raise funds through a capital campaign for the Greater Sturgis Lifecare Foundation. Since its inception, we have been thrilled to answer the call to provide financial assistance to our health care community,” said Terry Hermann, foundatio Board Member. “Whether it has been dollars given for expansion and equipment for the hospital, upgrades in furniture for the long term care facility, or supporting housing for our elderly, the Greater Sturgis Lifecare Foundation has been willing to financially support and keep our residents in their home town for the care they need and deserve.”

“This organization has contributed and made possible the continued and changing healthcare environment in the Sturgis area, including hospice and emergency care,” said Mark Schmidt, president of Monument Health Sturgis market.

Brenda Sabers, president of the foundation, talked about the great projects that recently were critical financial pieces that helped projects come together.

“Senior housing has been a topic of GSLF for almost 20 years; the need in the Sturgis area is great for senior housing and the GSLF has been able to provide funding to Aspen Grove Assisted Living and Dolan Creek Assisted and Independent Living projects. These facilities allow our residents to stay in our community for years to come. Also, having a hospital in a small town is a blessing to those who live and work in Sturgis; the

Within the foundation, the Rural Meade County Emergency Services also raised funds that are invested and recently funded an updated AED machine for the Central Meade County Community Center, and several years ago, assisted the rural ambulance department to purchase a used ambulance.

Paul Bisson, a charter board member, encourages donations to build the fund.

“Regardless of the need, the citizens of Sturgis and Meade County always respond in volunteer hours and generous donations.

The Greater Sturgis Lifecare Foundation has leveraged those donations by filling the gap that traditional financing could not fully fund for several of the major health care and senior care projects,” said Bisson. “These projects likely would not have happened without the GSLF funds. That is why it is so important and necessary that those that are willing, contribute

Mark Schmidt, president of Monument Health Sturgis Market, and Rikki Plaggemeyer, nurse manager, hospital/clinic, give Greater Sturgis LifeCare Foundation board members a tour of the Hospice Suite at the Sturgis Hospital. The foundation has contributed over $90,000 to the suite. Pioneer photo by Tim Potts

from Pg 6

LIFECARE

to GSLF through cash donations, bequests through their will, naming GSLF as a beneficiary on their life insurance policy, or by taking advantage of tax laws to donate real estate or stock to enable this Foundation to make future impactful grants to benefit the healthcare and senior care in Sturgis and Meade County for future generations.”

The mission statement of the organization is to provide financial support for projects that promote the health & wellness of their respective communities, with emphasis on projects that benefit the elderly & provide for the continued availability of healthcare within

the community.

Top nine Investments

made by GSLF:

• $200,000 — Dolan senior housing 50 unit complex in Sturgis.

• $190,000 — Furniture and upgrades to the Long Term Care Center.

• $150,000 — ER remodel project

• $ 90,000 — Lippold Hospice room payment

• $ 90,000 — Aspen Grove

Assisted Living

• $ 81,300 — X-ray equipment for hospital.

• $ 66,700 — Landscaping and irrigation system

• $ 58,416 — Garden walk

• $ 35,000 — Renovate & Expand Massa Unit Alzheimer’s Wing Dining Room

Dolan Creek Senior Living center received financial support from the Greater Sturgis LifeCare Foundation early this year and was the largest contribution to a project since the beginning of the foundation.

The new Dolan Creek Senior Living complex which received financial support from the GSLF is targeted to open on April 1, at 2171 Moose Dr., in Sturgis. Pioneer photos by Tim Potts

Hotel, convention center coming to Belle Fourche

By AmAndA WolTersTorff

Black Hills Pioneer

BELLE FOURCHE — A new 47,400 square foot hotel and convention center is making its way to Belle Fourche.

Belle Fourche has strong tourism numbers in the summer, with activities like the Black Hills Roundup, yet the town struggles to retain robust tourism numbers in the winter. Some believe that a convention center will help those winter blues.

Doug Peterson, from Lemmon, stepped up to take on that challenge

when he purchased 5.7 acres of land on Cowboy Street from Butte County in late 2022.

“We believe there is a need there (in Belle Fourche),” said Peterson. “There are numerous regional and state things that go on from range meetings, to land management, to government agency meetings. South Dakota Sheep Growers have had conventions there (in Belle Fourche).”

“We hope to just expand on what’s available, because up until now, there hasn’t been a big enough facility to house a bigger event,” he

continued.

The convention room will be able to hold 300 people, and there will also be a smaller meeting room that can hold 50 people.

Currently, the Community Hall in Belle Fourche can hold 298 people. The Rec Center can also hold up to 500 people in the gym and 580 in the theater.

Peterson said that they won’t be hosting any entertainment in the convention room. However, conventions and meetings could have their events catered by their in-house restaurant, Grazer’s Burgers and

Beers.

Members of the community will be able to enjoy the restaurant, as well as the 1,500 square foot fitness facility.

As for the hotel, it will have 72 units and a large indoor pool.

Peterson said that DA Peterson Company, LLC., is well on its way to breaking ground in the spring and hopes to have the Belle Lodge and Conference Center completed by spring 2024.

“We’ve finished the soil survey, and we are just finishing up some of the structural details.”

Pictured is an artist’s rendition of the Belle Lodge and Conference Center that is in its preliminary design phase. DA Peterson Company, LLC., hopes to break ground this spring. Courtesy photo by Doug Peterson

Bulk of Sky Ridge complex work done

Growth of turf to determine opening date

By JAson Gross Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH — Crews have completed the vast majority of the 40-acre sports complex being developed along with the city of Spearfish’s joint housing project.

Grading and dirt work, all utilities both above and below ground, and infrastructure such as buildings, fences, and parking lots comprised the first phase. Spearfish Parks and Rec Director Tyler Ehnes said that was the majority of the project.

Original plans called for that phase to be completed by November 2022. Ehnes said the contractor is behind by a few months, so they will return this spring to finish.

Most of the fields were planted in fall 2022, with a couple of others needing planting in spring 2023.

“The establishment of the turf will be what drives the opening of the complex,” Ehnes said. “We do not want associations and teams playing on the complex before we have a safe, playable

surface.”

Ehnes said the Parks and Rec Department will monitor grass growth and establishment this summer to see how it comes in. That determines if complex opening will occur in spring 2024, fall 2024, or spring 2025.

The Spearfish department has purchased more equipment to maintain the complex. Ehnes said that includes a 12-foot-wide turf mower and other turf grass equipment.

“This complex was designed with a redundant system for irrigation,” Ehnes said. He added the plan is for the irrigation well to be the primary water source, but the system is plumbed into city water as a backup if the well goes down.

“We needed 300 GPM (gallons per minute) to irrigate the complex,” Ehnes said. “The well was drilled and tested, and the test revealed a 500 GPM rate.”

Ehnes said city leadership is trying to decide how best to design the well house and pumping system.

One design option centers on using the well for municipal purposes with the extra 200 GPM. The

other choice is to design it specifically as an irrigation well.

Mid-America Sports Construction, out of Missouri, worked the principal construction phase of the project. The city of Spearfish drew a $10 million bond for this project, and this phase has cost around $9.8 million.

A maintenance building is part of that phase. Construction started in late fall 2022 and lasted throughout most of the winter.

Other items associated with this project include way-finding signage, shade structures, and additional small restrooms. Ehnes said those are part of the second phase, with Spearfish-based Ainsworth-Benning Construction responsible for those.

The Spearfish Parks and Rec Department will provide principal oversight of the complex when construction ends.

“Currently, we have budgeted for and hired one full-time employee for the complete and two seasonal employees,” Ehnes said. He added staff may be added if the need arises.

The Sky Ridge sports complex is nearing principal construction completion. Although the infrastructure will all be in place, preparation such as additional amenities and field turf will need to be added throughout 2023 before the arenas are ready to host games. Pioneer file photo

Pioneer Bank and Trust welcomes new building

By sidnee shorT

Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH — Pioneer Bank and Trust is taking new year, new me to great heights in 2023. The Spearfish branch has moved all its operations into the new building located on East Jackson Boulevard, and started demolition of the old bank.

Vice President and Branch Manager Dan O’Shea said the new building is 23,000 square feet, and includes heated sidewalks leading up to the two entrances.

“We built it with room for growth. To meet the growing demands in our community,” O’Shea said.

Built in 1974, the former bank building started being demolished on Tuesday, and is set to turn into a parking lot with 28 spaces by the end of May. There will also be 10 spaces available along 7th Street.

“Outside of our business hours, the parking lot will really, only, help our downtown businesses.” O’Shea said.

The parking lot will be open to the public outside of business hours, allowing for more parking downtown during events.

O’Shea has worked for the bank for over 22 years, and became branch manager in February following the retirement of Tom Deis.

“They (Pioneer Bank) are a great local, family owned company. They have a great culture and organization, and I work with great people. I even go so far to say we have the best customers.” O’Shea said with a chuckle.

The new building holds 26 employees currently, with extra office space designated for future growth.

“Because of the growing demand we’ve had for our services from the community, we really needed to increase the size significantly. It just made sense to build new,” O’Shea said.

At the end of 2019, O’Shea said the bank’s assets and liabilities added up to about $695 million. By the end of 2021, that number jumped to over $1 billion.

“Some banks will grow by merger’s and acquisi-

tions and we’ve grown just as or customers needs have grown, our communities have grown, you know, we’re just serving more people.” O’Shea said “Just growing organically.”

The bank will hold a grand opening in June, exact date to be determined, for the customers and community, when the space is complete.

“We built this facility for the next 50 years.” O’Shea said.

Pioneer Bank and Trust in Spearfish has a new building and is demolishing the old building. All employees and business matters have moved into the new facility, with the grand opening scheduled to happen sometime in June. Pioneer photo by Sidnee Short

Heartfelt Quilt Shop is a locally owned and operated store that aims to bring the joy of quilting to the vibrant and diverse community of Spearfish.

The shop itself includes two floors of a large variety of beautiful fabrics, notions, patterns, and kits, that are certain to meet the need of any seasoned quilters and novices alike.

With a kind and knowledgable staff at your disposal we can get you started on your latest project in no time! Visit us at 640 Heritage Drive, Spearfish, SD or check us out at heartfeltquilt.com or on our Facebook page.

A Girl & A Gun

Becoming your own first responder

B y s TA rr P A ul Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — Safely handling a firearm requires plenty of proper knowledge and practice; for A Girl & A Gun, both principles are incredibly important, though to this group, it’s not just about shooting.

Black Hills CO2 is a local family owned business servicing South Dakota and Wyoming for 22 years. In 2021 Ryan and Elizabeth Heggem took over ownership from Elizabeth’s uncle.

They strive to be fast and reliable with honest pricing. As carbonation specialists they provide services for bulk CO2/Nitrogen systems, fountain machines, draught beer, kegerators, and small home brew supplies.

For a quote or more information contact Ryan Heggem at 605-641-9688 or www. blackhillsco2.com and follow us on Facebook.

Black Hills Federal Credit Union is memberowned and not-for-profit. With 15 locations across South Dakota, we are passionate about serving our members and improving lives in our communities. Since 1941, we have helped members buy vehicles, purchase homes, insure assets, start businesses, and much more. Members can access their finances from anywhere with our top-rated Mobile App, Online Banking, Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs), and other convenient services.

Stop in and talk with one of our friendly, knowledgeable staff at 835 Main Street in Spearfish. Find us online at bhfcu.com or text or call 605-718-1818.

A Girl & A Gun (AG & AG) is a women’s shooting league established by women, for women pistol, rifle, and shotgun enthusiasts. The organization was founded in 2011 by Julianna Crowder, a firearms instructor near Austin, Texas with her personal firearms and ammo, and the vision of a close-knit group of like-minded women who were dedicated to learning. By 2013 A Girl & A Gun had become a growing national entity. There are currently 201 chapters around the United States and with 32 present active members, The Greater Black Hills chapter is the only chapter in South Dakota. Christine Maki serves as the facilitator for the Greater Black Hills Chapter, and is a National Rifle Association (NRA) certified instructor.

To Maki and her chapter, it is of the upmost importance that women have proper training surrounding firearms,

the range and use their firearm. A Girl & A Gun gives women the ability to use their firearms regularly by providing members with a safe environment free of judgement, for women to feel comfortable asking questions, and handling firearms with the added element of comradery. Maki said the most important reason for women to have proper firearm training is for a woman to be able to defend herself when need be.

“The most important reason, is if you are in situations where you need to help yourself and there’s no one else to help you, you are your first responder,” she said.

What separates AG & AG from other women’s shooting programs, is the sense of sisterhood and cultivation of community that is fostered within each organizations chapter, Maki said.

The key to our success is our over 1000 associates, many of whom have made Mead their workplace for life. Almost two dozen associates have more than 30 years of service with our company. Our frontline employees that interface with our customers’ everyday define who we are as a company.

The culture of our company, combined with our commitment to providing a safe yet fast paced work environment, solid growth opportunities, attractive compensation and fringe benefits, has created an outstanding work force that is very talented, loyal and hardworking. The Mead family now spanning four generations has provided great leadership and a solid foundation from which we have continued to grow.

As a growing ESOP Company, our employees have a vested interest in providing you - our customer, great service and value.

“It is important so that you know you have the confidence and you’re comfortable with picking up a firearm if you have to,” Maki noted, “A lot of areas, especially Rapid City have noted an increase in crime and sadly, in South Dakota they are reporting a lot of missing women. Perhaps you go on to carry a firearm regularly and you have to practice how to do so safely, you can’t just depend on having it and think you can pull it out in just a second or two because that’s how quickly bad situations can happen.”

Maki said that a lot of women may learn how to shoot from their fathers or husbands but have not had the opportunity to consistently go to

“We are just giving ladies a place to feel comfortable and getting out and shooting monthly. It’s that comradery. The sisterhood and getting out and being together and doing something together that sometimes can be uncomfortable for others. A place where they feel like they are safe and they aren’t judged and can learn and get better at shooting.” Christine explains.

The Greater Black Hills Chapter hosts a plethora of social gatherings and events monthly that not only serve as educational opportunities, but additionally foster community. A favorite of the group is the Girls Night Out events. These events start after the workday, and involve women getting together for target time. The organization also hosts Brunch and Bullets, where members go out to brunch or lunch after they have spent time at the range, and enjoy the company of other like-minded women. In addition to the social gatherings that take place, the entire A Girl & A Gun organization hosts more than 300 branded

events monthly.

Through the organization there are endless opportunities for firearm training such as Sniper School, a training experience where participants can gain knowledge and experience in scope manipulation, ballistics, range estimation, and concealment. The Dynamic Real World Immersive Firearms Training (DRIFT) Academy, through the organization, offers education in all aspects of vehicle defense. Glock Getaways provide an exclusive training

opportunity at Glock Professional where participants can become a certified armorer by gaining extensive knowledge of the functions and features of Glock pistols. Additionally, for those with a competitive edge, the organization hosts plenty of shooting matches and competitions all around the country.

A membership with A

Girl & A Gun not only gives members hands on experience, but also an abundance of knowledge and opportunity combined with an unbreakable sisterhood.

Basic handgun knowledge is preferred before joining the organization, though Maki said that if a prospective member has basic knowledge of handguns, she would be happy to speak with her prior and evaluate the possibility of a half hour shooting session before the regularly scheduled session with all members, to get a new member comfortable or get them in contact with one of the three other NRA certified instructors in the area.

To join the sisterhood and become a member of A Girl & A Gun visit www.agirlandagun. org and click the ‘Find A Chapter’ tab, or contact Christine Maki at AG.AGgreaterBH@gmail. com.

A Girl & A Gun’s Greater Black Hills Chapter facilitator, Christine Maki, demonstrates firearm mechanics and safety to a member. Courtesy photo

We would like to take this time to thank our employees and customers for their loyalty and support over the last 23 years.

The high standard and quality products our customers have come to expect are the direct result of the hard work and dedication of our employees.

The continued patronage and suggestions by our customers is a vital part of our growth. And for that we are most grateful. We look forward to serving you for many years to come.

~ Alana & Larry Strickland

Headquartered in Rapid City, S.D., Monument Health is a community-based health care system with a mission to make a difference, every day.

The system offers care in 31 medical specialties and serves 14 communities across western South Dakota and in eastern Wyoming. With over 5,000 physicians and caregivers, Monument Health is composed of 5 hospitals and 40 medical clinics and specialty centers. Monument Health is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network.

Happy Spring Black Hills!

Rushmore Bikes - your locally owned and operated bike shop - has the products, technical knowledge and understanding to make your bike, and your ride the best possible! Since 2001 we have been serving the region's bicycle needs in Road, Mountain, Gravel, and E Bikes. If you are E Bike curious, stop in and learn what new technology has been developed to take you to the next level of fitness, fun, and adventure on a bike. Stop by our new shop, located at 3105 W. Fairgrounds Loop in Spearfish. Our experts are ready to help get your bike in tip-top shape or to help you find the bike that is best for you. See you soon!

DANA DENTAL ARTS

The Coffee Stop at Exit 14! Sunrise Buzz is perfect for your commute to work or just for a quick treat during the day. Locally owned by Elizabeth Heggem, in August of 2022 the hut opened its window as Sunrise Buzz. In November of 2022 the hut was moved to the HomeSource parking lot at exit 14.

They have a large selection of hot and iced drinks, including their specialty plant-based Lotus Energy drinks. Muffins and oatmeal are offered as a quick snack along with your delicious made to order drink!

Stop by at 2535 E. Colorado Blvd., Spearfish in the HomSource parking lot. Also check out their Facebook and Instagram@sunrisebuzz605, to stay up to date on monthly specials. Current hours are 6:30 am –2:00 pm Monday – Saturday.

VERSATILE CARPETS & INTERIORS

For over 30 yeas Tim and Lois Verhulst have had the privilege of living and working in Spearfish, SD. Moving to Spearfish with their four children in 1991 was a big leap, but the opportunity arose and they never looked back.

Tim and Lois have enjoyed providing interior services, from flooring to blinds, and everything in between for the community as well as the surrounding communities. At Versatile Carpets and Interiors, we help you make you house a home, intentionally coordination every detail to your unique aesthetic.

We have found great joy in creating relationships within our community and welcoming new Spearfishians to town. We love living and thriving in Spearfish, if you are new to the area, welcome, you are going to love it here.

"Family Dentistry" takes on a new meaning at Dana Dental Arts. Proudly serving the Spearfish Area since 1974, Dr. Michael Dana has been joined in the practice by his children Dr. Brad, Dr. Nicole, and Dr. Monique.

Dr.'s Brad, Nicole and Monique have each received Masters in Implantology from the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, allowing them to add this expertise to the many comprehensive dental services offered at Dana Dental Arts.

Family friendly care and scheduling complement the latest technology and patientcentered approach, which the entire Dana Dental Arts staff are pleased to provide.