Elevate - December 2020

Volume 1. Issue No. 9

DECEMBER 2020

Home for the Holidays 7 FESTIVE ACTIVITIES to celebrate the holiday season

The Kingsburys have been providing Santa with

GIFTS SINCE 1975

KNOW YOUR TREATMENT OPTIONS We have you covered in any situation.

URGENT CARE SITUATIONS

EMERGENCY SITUATIONS

VS

• Allergies • Ear or eye infection

• Rashes and minor burns • Severe sore throat

• Chest pain or squeezing sensation

• Fever • Cuts that may require

• Sprains and strains • Vomiting/diarrhea

• Seizure or loss of consciousness

stitches • Possible broken bones or

• Vaccinations • Cold or flu symptoms

• Severe or sudden pain

simple fractures

CUSTER WALK-IN/URGENT CARE SERVICES

Open M-F, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

605-673-9400

1220 Montgomery Street, Custer

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath • Serious burns • Sudden paralysis or slurred speech • Uncontrolled bleeding

RAPID CITY URGENT CARE LOCATIONS

Open daily 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

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

CUSTER HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

Open 24 hours | 605-673-9400 1220 Montgomery Street, Custer

RAPID CITY HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

Open 24 hours | 605-755-1000 353 Fairmont Boulevard, Rapid City

LEAD-DEADWOOD WALK-IN/URGENT CARE SERVICES

Open M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

605-717-6431 71 Charles Street, Deadwood

LEAD-DEADWOOD HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

Open 24 hours | 605-717-6000 61 Charles Street, Deadwood

www.monument.health/options

SPEARFISH URGENT CARE SERVICES

Open daily 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

605-717-8595 1420 North 10th Street, Spearfish SPEARFISH HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT Open 24 hours | 605-644-4000 1440 North Main Street, Spearfish

STURGIS URGENT CARE SERVICES

Open daily 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

605-720-2600 2140 Junction Avenue, Sturgis STURGIS HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

Open 24 hours | 605-720-2400 2140 Junction Avenue, Sturgis

If you are experiences symptoms of COVID-19, please schedule a testing time via MyChart or by calling the Nurse Triage Line at 755-1350.

Let us help your building dreams come true.

718.1818 | bhfcu.com

DEC. 2020 9

15

20 34

Volume 1 Issue No. 9

RAPID CITY RUSH

Coach Tetrault feels at home in Rapid City as the puck drops on the delayed ECHL season.

WHO KNEW?

The Kingsbury family has been providing Santa with gifts since 1957.

NO PLACE LIKE HOME

Seven activities to help make this a memorable holiday season.

5TH & ST. JOE

Loft apartments and retail space are part of a large downtown development set to break ground in 2021.

KICKSTART MY

Ed Mandy and Andrew Pavek have revived a retro video game system with modern technology. Their company 7400 Circuits has received support on Kickstarter, and they continue to innovate. See what's next for Ed and Andrew on page 38.

4 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

ELEVATE RAPID CITY NOVEMBER 2020 ECO N O M IC IN D IC ATO RS

RAPID CITY GROSS SALES $ 641,749,543

AIRPORT PASSENGERS 40,265

HOTEL OCCUPANCY 66.1%

BUILDING PERMITS 702

View the full November economic indicators report at elevaterapidcity.com

Proudly serving the Black Hills for 67 years and counting!

Ready for a career change?

- BUILT ON SERVICE -

Do you have a bachelor’s degree, but you want to become a nurse?

BUILT TO LAST

Get your B.S.N. in Rapid City in just 12 months.

www.sdstate.edu/nursing

605.342.5587 - northwestpipe.com elevaterapidcity.com 5

CEO NOTE

December 2020 PRESIDENT & CEO Tom Johnson FINANCE DIRECTOR Dana Borowski ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Matt Brunner COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Shiloh Francis PUBLIC POLICY DIRECTOR Anna Hays DIRECTOR OF SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTOR RELATIONS Brandis Knudsen DIRECTOR OF INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP Mitch Nachtigall

Tom Johnson // Elevate Rapid City CEO

In the old days, hockey fights were a sure thing.

Each team had a fourth-line enforcer, a vampire on skates, a guy who everyone knew couldn’t control the puck, but who would throw the gloves down just because he liked the taste of blood.

In most sports, like in the real world, the cost of punching another man in the face is generally steeper than the reward. A multiple-game suspension, a huge fine, a sullied reputation—deterrence has worked, going all the way back to the Old Testament.

The deterrence in the old days of hockey? Five minutes in the penalty box. And maybe a broken tooth.

Today, for better or for worse (some might say), hockey has evolved.

If you’re going to fight, you fight for a reason—to defend a teammate who took a dirty hit from an opponent, for instance.

What does all of this have to do with the Elevate magazine?

A lot, actually. In this issue, we are asking you to stay home for the holidays and defend your city, the Black Hills, and the region against a dirty opponent, Covid-19.

Look—we didn’t think we’d still be talking about the virus in to late December. But it’s still with us and cases are rising in the region, even as I write these words. The virus doesn’t play by the rules. It shoulder checks our friends, family, and neighbors. It threatens our economy and our very way of life. It doesn’t care if you’re on the first line or the fourth.

But we can fight back. We can social distance. We can wash our hands. We can wear masks when we go out. We can stay home when we feel sick. And we can shop local, stay local, and be local so that this virus doesn’t wipe out our local economy.

We did it once before, my friends, in the early days of the virus arriving in the area. And we can do it again. Whether we want to call it flattening the curve, taking personal responsibility, or supporting the local economy, we can throw down our gloves and fight.

Just bring the hand sanitizer.

Stay safe and god-speed.

6 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

EVENTS & TRAINING MANAGER Rachel Day CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER Andy Greenman HR COORDINATOR/OFFICE MANAGER Liz Highland EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Becky Knox FINANCE MANAGER AND INVESTOR COORDINATOR Debbie Leber WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT & TALENT ATTRACTION MANAGER Samantha McGrath ADMIN & DATA SERVICES COORDINATOR Loni Reichert DESIGN AND LAYOUT Andy Greenman PUBLISHED BY THE RAPID CITY JOURNAL Matt Tranquill, Publisher PRINTED BY SIMPSON PRINTING Dan Simpson, Printer ADVERTISE mtranquill@gmail.com // 605-394-8301

Elevate is a monthly publication produced by Elevate Rapid City. It is the premier business magazine for the Black Hills region telling the stories that make our area unique and vibrant.

PO Box 747, Rapid City, SD 57709 605.343.1744 // elevaterapidcity.com

ON THE COVER Reserve an igloo and stay warm with a glass of Red Ass Rhubarb this winter.

Photo courtesy of Prairie Berry LLC.

COMMENTS COMMUNITY PIG ROAST Let's make the 2021 pig roast an outstanding event to say thank you to all those currently serving and their families as well as a celebration of all the goodness in our community!

- Kevin Ott

B-21 RAIDER Great news for Ellsworth!

Glad to bring support for this last session and ongoing.

- Jess Olson

CALENDAR NOVEMBER 27 - DECEMBER 27

Holiday Express - 1880 Train

The Holiday Express travels one hour to the North Pole aboard our diesel engine to pick up Santa and bring him back to Hill City. This ride does not go all the way to Keystone. Find dates and times at 1880train.com.

NOVEMBER 27 - DECEMBER 31

Christmas Nights of Light

Join Storybook Island for our Christmas Nights Of Light. Stroll through the park and enjoy over 16 miles of beautiful lights.

Cost of admission is $3 per person. View dates and times at storybookisland.org.

NEW BOARD MEMBER

NOVEMBER 28

Excited to join the Elevate board and help grow the Black Hills region!

Usher in the holiday season downtown with a festive celebration, including ice skating and tree lighting. Shop the Winter Market, a collection of local vendors where you are sure to find that perfect handcrafted gift. Learn more at mainstreetsquare.org.

- Todd Gagne

ELEVATE RAPID CITY ANNUAL MEETING Great job on hosting the virtual meeting!

- Michele Loobey

VETERANS HONOR BANNER I can't "Thank You" enough for the fabulous article that you did to give coverage to our project!

- Bill Casper

CONNECT WITH US!

Holiday Celebration & Winter Market

NOVEMBER 28

23rd Annual Festival of Lights Parade

A dazzling nighttime parade that travels through downtown Rapid City amidst sparkling lights and huge crowds! For more information on how to enter a float or sign up to be a volunteer, visit festivaloflightsrc.com.

DECEMBER 3 - 5

Christmas Tour of the Adams House

The historic home will be elegantly dressed during the Christmas season. A kid-friendly scavenger hunt will be available for children. Tickets can be purchased online at DeadwoodHistory.com or at the door.

DECEMBER 5

Winter Market & Christmas Festival

Get your picture taken with Santa, shop the craft fair and eat from the food trucks on site. The event takes place from 3-7 p.m. at 420 Villa Drive in Box Edler.

DECEMBER 5 - JANUARY 1

Custer State Park Festival of Trees Follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/ElevateRapidCity), Instagram (@elevaterapidcity), LinkedIn (/company/elevate-rapid-city) Twitter (@Elevate_RC), and YouTube (https://bit.ly/2ABRByL).

Share your thoughts and help us Elevate Rapid City together!

Just want to send a rant? Email: magazine@elevaterapidcity.com

Come vote for your favorite tree during this years' Custer State Park Festival of Trees! You can view all of the trees set up by community partners and organizations at the Custer State Park Visitor Center throughout the month of December.

DECEMBER 11-12

Rapid City Rush vs. Utah Grizzlies

Join us at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center Ice Arena as the Rapid City Rush ECHL hockey team takes on the Utah Grizzlies. Purchase tickets at rapidcityrush.com. elevaterapidcity.com 7

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FACE OFF

Coach Tetrault continues to invest in his community and team

H

by Shiloh Francis

e shoots, he scores, and the crowd goes wild!

The blaring horn is accompanied by cowbells clanging loudly amongst the rowdy fans. As he rushes back to get on defense, he can’t help but soak it all in. He remembered the noise of this hockey arena from his time playing as an opponent.

But this time things were different; this was his home and these were his fans.

It was 2014 and would be Daniel Tetrault’s final season of professional hockey after 15 years. He had played for more than eight teams and would be finishing his career as team captain for the Rapid City Rush.

Two things always stood for Tertault when thinking about moving to Rapid City. And they could not be more opposite. The loudest arena in the league, and the beautiful serenity of the Black Hills. elevaterapidcity.com 9

FACE OFF

F

ollowing his retirement, Tetrault was offered the assistant coaching job for the Rush team. And when the puck drops to begin the 2021 season, he will begin his third season as head coach.

Coach has a quiet demeanor. He loves the game, beyond that, he loves seeing the players develop. He can always find something positive or encouraging to say, even when a mistake is made.

His experience in the league makes it easy to respect him. And he has another trick up his sleeve that makes it easy for players to relate to: he is fully bi-lingual. Originally from Manitoba Canada, Coach grew up speaking French as his first language. Being able to speak both French and English gives him the ability to clearly communicate with players from across the league.

As someone who grew up skating and playing since the age of five, it’s not surprising that hockey continues to be a key part of Coach’s life. Many coaches and players throughout the league have offseason homes and only live in town during the season.

But not Coach Tetrault.

He lives in Rapid City year-round. The love of the game and the beauty of the Hills help, but ultimately it was a different kind of love that keeps him here. Coach and now fiancé, Shelle, met at the Christmas Midnight Mass that final season he played. As he says, “the rest was history.”

10 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

Daniel & Shelle RAPID CITY’S TEAM

B

ecause he lives in Rapid City all year, it creates more opportunities for Coach to attend community events and get involved in Rapid City. And that involvement continues throughout the organization. From Nugget appearances to the players volunteering, the Rapid City Rush works hard to give back to the community.

This will be the 13th season for the Rush.

The organization has seen a lot of changes over the years, but one thing remains the same: they are Rapid City’s team. Having access to attend a professional game is not something every town the size of Rapid City can boast. The Rush is the only organization that travels the country with “Rapid City” clearly displayed.

Whether you understand hockey or not, you cannot help but feel caught up in the energy of the arena when you attend your first game. The bright lights, cowbells, and occasional fight on the ice are sure to pull you in. Grab a friend, buy some tickets, and get out to support Coach and the Rapid City Rush this season.

If there’s one thing 2020 has taught us: we have to come together and support local if we want it to continue to be here.

H O M E O P E N E R : D E C E M B E R 1 1 // T I C K E T S : R A P I D C I T Y R U S H . C O M

FROM CAPTAIN TO COACH

Warm and Bright.

From cozy nights by the fire to gathering ‘round the glowing tree, we’re grateful to fuel the memories you create this holiday season.

©87072_20

elevaterapidcity.com 11

Your networking needs are one of a kind, not one of exactly the same.

Midco.com/Enterprise

12 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

Internet. Networking. Data Center. Phone.

TRAINING

Trauma Informed Practices to benefit businesses serving high crisis employees

by Elevate Rapid City

S

table families are key to creating healthier communities. One way we can do that is through creating systems that help people succeed and maintain employment. The obstacles and challenges people face each day don’t go away the moment they clock in. It is important for businesses to acknowledge the innate dignity and worth of every person and build relationship to create opportunities for professional and personal growth.

To help businesses learn how to best serve high crises employees, Elevate Rapid City has partnered with Children’s Home Society, Career Learning Center of the Black Hills and Palecek Therapy and Consulting to offer free virtual trainings on Trauma Informed Practices. As business leaders work to develop this level of support, our community can better achieve the mission of elevating the Rapid City region for all.

TRAINING SCHEDULE DECEMBER 2

Effective Practices for Working with High Crisis Employees

Presenters: Tracy Palecek, NCC, LPC, QMHP; Tifanie Petro, Advocacy and Prevention Program Director, Children's Home Society

DECEMBER 9

Designing Interventions around the Science of Behavior

Presenters: Tracy Palecek, NCC, LPC, QMHP; Tifanie Petro, Advocacy and Prevention Program Director, Children's Home Society

DECEMBER 16

Resource Navigation and other Tips for Retention and….

Tracy Palecek, NCC, LPC, QMHP; Tifanie Petro, Advocacy and Prevention Program Director and Lori Larson, Program Coordinator/ Mentor, Career Learning Center of the Black Hills For more information and to register for the free virtual trainings, visit elevaterapidcity.com/events.

South Dakota Mines and Caterpillar Together, we are building the next generation of mining and construction technology.

sdsmt.edu

Question: : I am not married to my children’s mother. We have shared the raising of our children for years and now we broke up. My name is on the birth certificate.

Answer: Having the Father’s name on a birth certificate or signing an Affidavit of Paternity for children born out of wedlock does not create constitutional rights as a parent. The law is designed to ultimately protect children and obtaining a Court Order (even if you decide to reconcile) is in the children’s best interest.

CONTACT: Lorie Melone at Black Hills Mediation and Law to get legal assistance. 605-791-4850

Lorie D. Melone 1107 Mt. Rushmore Road, Suite #3A Rapid City, SD 57701 Phone: 605-791-4950 Lorie D. Melone • Family Law Attorney & Certified Mediator

elevaterapidcity.com 13

WHEN YOU CHOOSE LOCAL

YOU SUPPORT CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

YOU GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY SMALL BUSINESSES DONATE

250% MORE

YOU EMPLOY

THAN LARGE BUSINESSES TO

YOUR NEIGHBOR

SMALL BUSINESSES (THOSE WITH UNDER 500 EMPLOYEES)

EMPLOY 58%

OF SOUTH DAKOTANS 1

COMMUNITY CAUSES

2

75% OF SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS

YOU KEEP DOLLARS IN YOUR

COMMUNITY

SMALL BUSINESSES GENERATE

$68

DONATE AN AVERAGE OF

OF LOCAL ECONOMIC RETURN

FOR EVERY $100 SPENT WITH THEM 3

6%

OF THEIR

PROFITS TO

This message brought to you by:

1. Source: U.S. Small Business Administration, Office of Advocacy 2. Source: SCORE https://www.score.org 3. Source: Business Alliance for Local Living Economies

CHARITABLE

ORGANIZATIONS

A N N UA L LY 2

Signify Health Dakota Market Square Renovation

Commercial Construction

So You Can Focus on Building Your Business www.dreamdesigninc.com/build-to-suit 1 2 Archaeological Research Center 14 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

3

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MAIN STREET

Who’s Hobby and Who’s Toy

A History of Fun in Downtown Rapid City

Story by Main Street Square // Photos by Andy Greenman

Who’s Hobby House has been a staple in space was a vacant parking lot and has been our home since it was finished,” stated Kingsbury.

Downtown Rapid City since 1950 and has been The Kingsbury family business expanded in the Kingsbury family since 1957. Clancy again in 2011 when Somer Kinsbury, Clancy’s Kingsbury, a third generation owner of Who’s wife, opened up Who’s Toy House at the Shops at Hobby House, continues to carry on the tradition of fun and customer service Main Street Square. “We took the same customer service started by his grandfather "We have customers from approach at the toy store that 63 years ago. “I was selling everywhere in the region who had already been in place at insurance in 1992 when my father said he was going come to see us because they know the hobby shop. If we can keep to sell the hobby shop. I our customers happy, we have we will take care of them." a leg up as the online option.” thought, I would rather sell -Somer Kinsbury, toys than insurance so I made As the retail market continued Owner, Who's Toy House to change with the explosion of the change into the family business.” companies like Amazon, these Over the next 28 years local businesses continued to focus on their repeat customers to grow their Who’s Hobby House has changed a lot, including business. “Because we both have niche shops the space that they call home. “Fires destroyed we want to ensure we are there for our repeat multiple buildings in downtown Rapid City and through the years we moved a couple of times customers. We have customers from everywhere in the region who come to see us because they until we built the current building in 1996. The elevaterapidcity.com 15

WHO

KNEW ? ?

?

The WHO in Who’s Hobby House is an acronym of the original owner’s name, William Howard Ostenberg. It has been part of the families legacy for the past 63 years.

The businesses iconic neon sign is on the National Registry of Historic Signs and cost $1,000 when it was made in 1951 and the original owner paid $50 a month until the sign was paid off.

?

Clancy’s hobby is radio controlled airplanes. His father and grandfather didn’t have hobbies that involved the store.

?

The most popular trend right now is radio controlled cars and trucks, maybe its because people can enjoy those year round in smaller areas.

?

In the year 2000, Clancy and Who’s Hobby House was awarded the National Hobby Store of the Year Award presented at the Radio Control Hobby Trade Association convention in Chicago, Illinois.

16 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

know we will take care of them,” stated Somer.

When asked what kind of advice would this longtime business owner give to a new business owner Clancy simply stated, “You have to listen and pay attention to what your customers are asking for and what they are wanting.

So many businesses prioritize their business on what their owner likes rather than what the customer likes. Set your personal preferences aside, focus on the business [and] not emotion. Cater your business to that.”

Both owners place an emphasis on being involved in all aspects of the business, including giving back, especially during the holiday season. Who’s Toy House is a drop off for Toy’s for Tots during the holiday season they also work with the Care Center to supply, maintain and replenish all of the toys at the Care Campus. “No matter what families have going on in their lives we cannot forget that it is not these kids fault. We just hope that they can enjoy being kids despite their families situation. That’s important to us."

"Covid has actually helped the toy industry. Families are spending more time together and are able to reconnect to hobbies and each other. " -Clancy Kingsbury, Owner, Who’s Hobby House

Even through the evolution of the internet, Amazon and online shopping options, local businesses owners like the Kingsbury’s continue to find ways to remain relevant in the world of retail, even during a pandemic.

“Covid has actually helped the toy industry. Families are spending more time together and are able to reconnect to hobbies and each other. This will become even more important over the holiday season and we are glad to be a part of that any way we can,” said Clancy Kingsbury.

“They’ve got the magic touch ouch that makes me light up a room.”

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Sundog Rehabilitation, llC Serving Rapid Valley, Custer and West Rapid locations. 605-787-2719 www.sundogrehab.com - Most Insurance Accepted elevaterapidcity.com 17

Home for the Holidays T

here is no place like home for the holidays. This couldn’t be more true than for those luck enough to call the Black Hills Region home. One of the best things about living here is the quality of life we are able to enjoy. So, whether you have a more adventurous spirit or looking for a safe way to make memories with a friend or two, you’re sure to find something to do this winter.

18 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

1

Photo courtesy of Prairie Berry LLC.

Brews Enjoy local

The region is home to dozens of breweries and wineries for those looking for adult-only experiences. And area coffee shops have the espresso or tea brewing for those who are looking for another option. From the igloos at Prairie Berry to the pour-your-own method at Pour 54, you can find unique experiences in addition to your new favorite brew.

elevaterapidcity.com 19

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With A&B behind them, our clients don’t just face their business challenges; they say Bring It.

1-800-477-2425 | www.abbusiness.com 20 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

Photo courtesy of Main Street Square

Ice Skating at Main Street Square 2

Both the young and young at heart can enjoy skating in the heat of downtown Rapid City. With nearly 7,000 square feet of ice, nearly 200 people will be able to be on the ice at a time. And the fun doesn’t stop there! Warm up by the fire with a hot drink from Alternative Fuel and explore the shops at Main Street Square. You’re also within walking distance of plenty of downtown restaurants and bars.

Season begins late November through February, weather pending.

elevaterapidcity.com 21

Treasury Management Services

Money wasn’t meant to just sit around.

Our Treasury Management specialists have years of experience and can assist you with utilizing the many tools available to give you a financial advantage.

From online banking solutions to fraud protection to information management and more, you can count on Great Western Bank for a superior level of treasury management.

Let’s get started today, ask me how!

Cyrissa Thompson Treasury Management Specialist

14 Saint Joseph St. Rapid City, SD 605.737.9361

Even the wireless revolution needs a lifeline. We’re happy to provide over 50,000 miles of fiber support.

wireless.

22 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

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Connecting

Festival of Lights Parade

3

Enjoy an afternoon supporting Small Business Saturday, then stay downtown for the 23rd Annual Festival of Lights Parade on November 28. The season’s brightest event features nearly 100 floats strung with thousands of lights making their way through the downtown streets.

Photo courtesy of Visit Rapid City

Stroll through

The fairytale magic of Storybook Island is multiplied under a blanket of snow and twinkling lights.

Visit your favorite storybook characters as you stroll through nearly 16 miles of lights. Kids can enjoy a visit with Santa (until he heads to the North Pole December 24), and his reindeer will even enjoy a visit December 11-20. Admission is $3 per person.

November 27-29 December 4-6, 11-23 and 26-31

4 Storybook Island

Photo courtesy of Visit Rapid City elevaterapidcity.com 23

6

Explore the

Outdoors

Photo courtesy of Visit Rapid City

Photo courtesy of Visit Rapid City

5 Enjoy a Christmas Cruise Looking for a safe way to get out of the house and take in the most creative light displays?

Load up the kids, grab the cocoa and go for a Christmas Cruise! From the area’s favorite parks like Wilson and Halley (aka The Gap) to neighborhoods that compete with Clark Griswold, you’re sure to enjoy some quality time taking in the lights. Not sure which neighborhoods to drive through? tourdelights. com is a great guide for area displays.

Snowmobile. Snowshoes. Hiking boots. Fat Bike. Skis. Boards. No matter your preference, the Black Hills offer plenty of ways to get out and enjoy the fresh air and great outdoors.

With M Hill and Skyline Drive right in town, you can enjoy a hike then hit up a local brewery or restaurant to warm up and satisfy the appetite you worked up. Area lakes offer opportunities for ice fishing. Or you can bring a taste of the Black Hills home when you get a permit to cut down your own Ponderosa Pine tree.

It takes a local business owner to protect one.

Andrew A Ainslie Ins Agcy Inc Andy A Ainslie, Agent 1839 West Main Street Rapid City, SD 57702 Bus: 605-348-3338

As a small business owner in our community, I understand what it takes to protect your small business. Let me help you get insurance for your business at a great value.

Stop in or give me a call.

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From Bankers Who Live & Work Here Too!

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elevaterapidcity.com 25

Cheer on the

Rush

Photo courtesy of Rapid City Rush

7

Rapid City’s professional hockey team takes the ice in December. Grab your cowbell and best red as you cheer on the Rush to victory! You don’t have to be an avid hockey fan to get into the excitement and pride of cheering for the hometown. Be sure to snap a selfie with Nugget to make your friends at home jealous.

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MILITARY

Air Force base bringing spirit to community with festive holiday lane

by Siandhara Bonnet, Rapid City Journal

With COVID-19 restrictions in place, Black Hills Wire, the Ellsworth Board Authority and the Air Force Base itself are trying to bring the holidays to its base community.

Military community relations director Lynn Kendall said she had a conversation with the base and a mission support group about ways to bring holiday cheer to the base while social distancing and keeping peoples’ health at the forefront.

“We’re really excited to be able to do something and bring holiday cheer to the base,” Kendall said.

"We’re really excited to be able to do something and bring holiday cheer to the base" -Lynn Kendall Military Community Relations Director

For the first time, the base will welcome Black Hills businesses to decorate signs and displays that will go on the base for a festive holiday “lane.”

The lane will be accessible to the 8,000 airmen and Department of Defense civilians and family members on base who can drive around the signs or walk past.

Kendall said it will be like a reverse parade.

Businesses can decorate signs to make them look like holiday greeting cards, or they can turn them into three dimensional masterpieces with lights and movement.

The signs and displays will be up through New Year’s day and should be made to withstand South Dakota winters. Three-dimensional displays should not exceed five-by-five foot width or height, and displays must be anchored down through stakes or footers.

Signs and displays must promote inclusion and diversity, and any verbiage should be non-denominational with non-religious imagery.

Businesses can apply for a sign spot through the Black Hills Wire website.

Black Hills Wire will also try to make it feel like home through “A Home Away from Home” holiday meal program, depending on COVID-19. The program would connect airmen with local families for a holiday meal.

elevaterapidcity.com 27

Home to seasonal fun and winter exploration, holiday cheer is easy to find in Rapid City. Like ice skating next to the Holiday Tree at Main Street Square and enjoying eight acres of dazzling lights at Storybook Island. We welcome you to discover safe adventures this holiday season.

Rapid City is prioritizing safe travel. Learn more at

SafeHolidaysRC.com 28 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

Ways to Give Back To Our Community This Holiday Season

by Visit Rapid City

As we head into the holidays during a year that has been anything but normal, it might be harder to �ind that seasonal cheer. Many of us will be home for the holidays instead of going to visit family, but don’t let that stop you from getting into the spirit of the season. You can still give back and help share joy with those who need it in our community. Even the smallest act of kindness can mean the world to an individual or small business that needs it. Here are some ideas on how you can support others this season while still prioritizing safety.

Add Winter Gear on the City of Presidents

A top tourist attraction in the warmer months converts into a community closet during the winter. You can enjoy the sights and fresh air of downtown while giving back to those in need by adding winter gear to the familiar presidential faces that line downtown street corners. Let George Washington sport a winter beanie or add a scarf to Abe Lincoln. Donate those extra accessories so everyone can stay warm this holiday season.

Get Involved at Fork Real Community Café

City of Presidents

Fork Real Community Café is a non-pro�it, pay-what-you-can diner located in Downtown Rapid City. They serve up some truly delicious meals, and outstanding cheesecake desserts, Tuesday through Friday from 11am to 1:30pm. All are welcome here and they do some outstanding things for our community. They have a few ways you can get involved: you can volunteer your time, donate, or even purchase meal tokens that you can give out to those who need it.

Send a Holiday Card to a Senior in a Local Center

This may seem like a small way to give back, but don’t underestimate the positive impact of a handwritten note. Many people living in the senior homes in Rapid City and throughout the nation have been lacking personal connections, and one letter from someone who cares can comfort those who may be feeling lonely. Visit Rapid City has created free, festive greeting cards you can send to truly make someone’s day! Find participating locations at SafeHolidaysRC.com.

Give the Gift of Gifts

The Journey Museum & Learning Center

Shop local and support a local business, but also get creative with your gift giving. Rapid City has a wealth of boutiques and shops that can help you �ind one-of-a-kind items. You can also purchase an experience gift from places like The Journey Museum & Learning Center who are selling memberships for the new year. Membership includes access to online and in-person activities for the young and young at heart! Learn more about the history and culture of the Black Hills as well as endless educational trips throughout the coming year.

No matter how you choose to give back this holiday season, know this year more than ever these small or large acts of kindness can make a big difference in our community.

Rapid City is prioritizing safe travel and invites you to �ind more ways to support our local community.

Learn more at SafeHolidaysRC.com.

elevaterapidcity.com 29

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Member SIPC

Rick Owen 381-0208

30 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL GROUP

KOURTNEY PETERSON Human Resource Generalist, Coeur Wharf Resources

Did you grow up in the Black Hills area?

Kourtney Peterson: I moved to the Black Hills to start my career after finishing my Bachelors Degree in Minnesota. My family is originally from Rapid City, so I grew up visiting quite often from my hometown in Lemmon, SD. I’ve always loved being in the Black Hills and seeing all it has to offer, so I just knew it would be the perfect place to start my life outside of college. In the Black Hills, I have been able to get into my career field as a Human Resource Generalist and complete my Masters Degree in Organizational Leadership and Development.

Our Finance Director, Dana Borowski is also from Lemmon. Where have you landed since graduating?

I work at Coeur Wharf Resources in Lead, which is the active open-cut gold mine. Being in Human Resources, some of the main tasks I do is interview, hire, and onboard applicants, administer benefits and leave, organize scheduling, assist in review of employee performance evaluations and discipline, maintain compliance with employment laws, and enforce policies and procedures. I also have the opportunity to train and assist in some more specific Human Resource tasks such as employee investigations.

Never a shortage of work in your position.

What task do you enjoy the most or find the most rewarding?

It's hard to choose just one task that I like the most. Training in investigations is fascinating, and organizing employee holiday baskets, events, and facilitating companywide projects is just a blast, but I would have to pick interviewing, hiring, and onboarding. Going through the recruitment process of phone screens, inperson interviews, and onboarding is never boring and is very rewarding. I love making an applicant's days when I call with an offer, as well as the pre-employment screening process that involves running backgrounds and ensuring an applicant is cleared to start. In addition, it is very satisfying when a hire or hires are complete and a department is fully staffed. Of course, those interesting moments that come with interviewing are also plus; never a dull moment in HR. Tell us how you enjoy spending your time.

I’m a frequent traveler and try to take an exotic trip at least once a year. Most of my travels have mainly taken me through Europe, but some of my favorite places so far have been Alaska, Paris, London, and New York. One of my main goals is to do a large backpacking trip through many different countries and see all seven wonders of the world. It’s only natural that I would end up living in a tourist destination as well!

So you've been able to sample some fine dishes...

Paris had a lot of sandwiches. Everywhere I went that was the main food choice. Of course I had to try some macarons and a baguette sandwich, but I would have to say my favorite food was a chocolate or cream filled croissant. My favorite drink would have to be a sparkling wine at Mont Saint-Michel outside of Paris, I actually brought two bottles home with me!

GET CONNECTED: rapidcityoungprofessionalsgroup Stay up-to-date with upcoming events and connect with other young professionals from the area. elevaterapidcity.com 31

Agents Of Insurance Inc • Arrowhead Country Club • Assurant • BankWest-Rapid City • BH Contraband • BH Party Pedaler • Black Hills Community Bank • Black Hills Energy • Black Hills Escape Rooms • Black Hills Federal Credit Union • Black Hills Insurance Agency Inc. • Blaze Pizza • BMS Financial Advisors, LLC • Brass Rail • Buffalo Wings & Rings • Canvas 2 Paint • Climate Control Systems & Service, LLC • Coca Cola Bottling Co. • Dark Canyon Coffee • Dean Kelly Construction • Elkhorn Ridge Golf Course • Elks Theatre • Farm Bureau- Tom Berger Agency • Firehouse Brewing Company • Fisher Beverage • FMG Engineering • Golf Club at Red Rock • Guthrie, Inc. • Hart Ranch • Hay Camp Brewing Company • HomeSlice Media Group • Horsley Specialties • Hotel Alex Johnson • Independent Ale House • Inferno Food by Fire • Jenner Equipment Company • Jolly Lane Greenhouse • Keller Williams Commercial Real Estate • Ketel Thorstenson, LLP • KNBN Television/ NewsCenter 1 Media Group • Marco Technologies • Meadowbrook Golf Course • Medical Air Rescue • Medicine Shoppe Advanced Care Pharmacy • Mid Continent Testing Laboratories • Midwest Marketing, LLC • Modern Woodmen Of America America • Monument Health• Moyle Petroleum/Common Cents • Murphy's Pub & Grill • Paddy O'Neills • Par arkk Benc Bench Apparel and A&J Screening • Pioneer Bank & Trust • Pita Pit • Putz N Glo • Qdoba Mexican Grill • Quality Roofing & Const., Inc. • Rapid City Rush Professional Hockey • RBC Wealth Management • RESPEC Consulting & Services • Riverfront Broadcasting LLC • Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory • Rushmore Hotel Ho & Suites • Rushmore Plaza Civic Center • Scheels All Sports • Scull Construction • Security First Bank • Sentinel Federal Credit Union • Shooters • Simpsons Printing • Ten Key, LLC • The Powder Horn Golf Course • Thirsty's • Tinder Box • Trash Tattoo & Piercing • Upper Deck Architects • US Bank • VAST Broadband • Wells Fargo Bank & Wealth Management • West River Electric • Wobbly Bobby

Thank you sponsors of Black Hills Works, our hearts are filled with gratitude!

32 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

A Great Place For Your Business.

TED BANGERT

ABBY COOK

BRYAN WALKER

JIM GUPTILL

TIM PALMER

SHERRI HAYES

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From Bankers Who Live & Work Here Too!

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elevaterapidcity.com 33

CONSTRUCTION: SPRING 2021

34 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Lloyd Companies updates plans for downtown project

by Luke Jessen, Lloyd Companies

Lloyd Companies is planning to start work on a new signature project for downtown Rapid City next spring.

Lloyd was chosen by the city and Elevate Rapid City to develop the mixed use project at 5th Street and Saint Joseph Street in 2019 and still sees it coming to fruition as originally envisioned.

“Despite the major market shifts that occurred this year, especially in hospitality, we still believe this site can fulfill the potential we originally saw in it,” said Jake Quasney, Lloyd Companies’ executive vice president of development.

"We’re optimistic this property is going to see a hotel go up for when guests are ready to return in greater numbers."

-Jake Quasney

Executive Vice President of Development, Lloyd Companies

“Our adjusted approach will allow construction to begin in the spring and position us for when we believe the hospitality industry is going to rebound.”

The project will start with the first phase of loft apartments as well as retail development on the first floor.

“We’re finalizing our design and working with the city to execute a development agreement and fully believe

we’re on track to make that timeline happen,” Quasney said.

“We continue to see increased demand for multifamily living and downtown living, and we believe this is going to bring an offering to the Rapid City market that will be enthusiastically accepted.”

The project still plans to pursue an upscale hotel that will include meeting space, he said.

“It will come as no surprise that the hotel industry in general has experienced unprecedented upheaval this year,” he said.

“But we continue to have strong interest from hotels in locating here, with the region’s tremendous visitor industry to support it. While we can’t put an exact timeline together yet, we’re optimistic this property is going to see a hotel go up for when guests are ready to return in greater numbers.”

Lloyd Companies opened a Rapid City office in 2019 and is under construction with its first major project in the area, The VUE at Catron, featuring 168 modern one, two and threebedroom apartment homes with great amenities and a breathtaking view of the Black Hills.

“We’re very happy with how that project is coming together and think it will give Rapid City a powerful look at how we plan to invest in the community and the level of quality we intend to bring to this and all our developments,” Quasney said.

“We’re looking forward to an exciting 2021.”

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36 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

elevaterapidcity.com 37

ASCENT INNOVATION

Game Boy Advance is back and better than ever

By Andy Greenman

Ed Mandy had a basement full of arcade games in his Minnesota home. It wasn’t that he was busy toggling the joystick and collecting coins as Mario — he was tearing them apart to rebuild them. “I was more interested in the hardware and how the games actually worked than playing them,” Ed says.

The graduate of South Dakota Mines spent many years working in the neighboring state and tinkering with his game collection before returning to the Black Hills for a new venture with another Mines graduate, Andrew Pavek, his brother-inlaw. The company they started, known as 7400 Circuits, expanded from simple contracting jobs to an entirely niche market creating DIY retro gaming “There’s a group of people systems.

Their creation that love the GameBoy story isn’t one of Advance better than a million dollar anything else." idea, but more -Ed Mandy of the impetus of building a product that they enjoyed creating. Ed thought back to his days of rebuilding arcade games and they began a small project designing circuit boards for handheld video game systems.

Ed, an electrical engineer, was skilled on the software side, while Andrew’s passion was in hardware They supported their creative video game ventures by conducting contract work for local businesses, including redesigning hardware for B9 Creations. That is how they were introduced to Ascent Innovation. From there, an entire new market opened up.

Their product line, Freeplay Tech, is familiar to retro gamers worldwide. What started as a “nice within a niche” market has blossomed into a burgeoning business. Freeplay Tech creates DIY kits to install a new circuit board, LCD, and other accessories into the shell of a Game Boy Advance.

This allows the device to look and feel like the retro Game Boy Advance but operate like a modern day computer.

In a time when people are looking to the past for happier times, nostalgia gaming is on the rise.

“There’s a group of people that love the Game Boy Advance better than anything else.” Ed said. Their

38 ELEVATE • DEC. 2020

Andrew Pavek Ed Mandy

THIS OR THAT ED

Hot Tea Iced Tea Auto1 Manual

Hooking Tripping Journey2 Shortcut

Canoe Motorboat3

Inline Skating Skateboarding

ANDREW

Asphalt Dirt Vegetable4 Meat

Plastic Wood

Off the Grid On the Grid5

Car Camp Real Camp

Canada Mexico6

1. I can drink an iced tea while driving an automatic vehicle.

2. I don't care where we're going, I just want to focus on the journey of our travel. 3. My family has a cabin up in Minnesota. A motorboat is just so easy. 4. I've been loose about it but I prefer a vegetarian lifestle. 5. On the grid is just how I live my life. 6. Mexico has a more lively culture than Canada.

success on Kickstarter speaks volumes to the popularity of this throwback gaming world. With 327 backers who pledged over $45,000, they exceeded their initial goal by almost $10,000.

This allowed them to partner with a Canadian business that markets and sells their products on an established retro gaming website, so they can focus on production and not carry as much inventory. However, they plan to expand with an additional Kickstarter campaign to create the plastic shells and custom buttons that house the circuit board for the Game Boy Advance.

“We’ve never made our own shells. It’s something we’d like to do locally, injection molding the parts” Ed adds.

From basement tinkering to worldwide familiarity, Freeplay Tech has found their niche in the nostalgia gaming world.

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