FEBRUARY 2021
Volume 2. Issue No. 2
Black Hills Stock Show expects 200,000
Breadroot Co-op is Feeding South Dakota
Every Child Is Special
renovates vacant church
WESTERN DAKOTA TECH TRUCKERS
Winona Raney, a graduate of the Western Dakota Tech Professional Truck Driving program, proves that she belongs at the wheel of a semi
Heart attacks and strokes don’t stay home. Don’t avoid the ER out of anxiety. Don’t die of doubt. Don’t stay silent and don’t stay home. If you have an emergency, call 9-1-1. When seconds count, the hospital is the safest place to be.
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FEB. 2021 Volume 2 // Issue No. 2
8
15
RIDE 'EM COWBOY
The 63rd Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo® lineup returns January 29.
FEEDING SOUTH DAKOTA
Breadroot Co-op continues to support local organizations.
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24
CARING FOR THE KIDS
Ryan Zens is opening Every Child is Special to help ease the community's childcare shortage. Read story on page 28.
4 ELEVATE • FEB. 2021
DAKOTA TRUCKERS
Western Dakota Tech has been putting truck drivers on the road for 21 years.
B-21 BEDDOWN
An Industry Day Forum was held to give greater insight to businesses.
ELEVATE RAPID CITY J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1 E C O N O M I C I N D I C AT O R S ECONOMY
MSA POPULATION 145,248 RAPID CITY GROSS SALES $ 578,647,042
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE 3.7%
AIRPORT PASSENGERS 27,302
AVERAGE WEEKLY WAGES $ 878
HOTEL OCCUPANCY 35.4%
BUILDING PERMITS 247
REAL ESTATE
ACTIVE LISTINGS 174
MEDIAN LISTING PRICE $ 314,500
Increase over last period Decrease over last period
Monthly comparisons, industry analysis and additional economic indicators available on exclusive investor report.
Dakota Market Square RSeignnoifvyaHteiaoltnh
Commercial Construction
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Exploring the toughest jobs My father was an over-the-road truck driver for most of his career. For him, getting up at 3 a.m. for work was normal. Driving through every major city in the US was common. And unloading tens of thousands of pounds of furniture, pianos, and washers each day was standard practice. When I was a teenager, he took me with him a few summers, just to show me how hard the work could be. His secret wish was to make sure I went to college. Falling asleep at a truck stop each night in my own sweat in the deep south, blisters on my feet and hands from lifting objects all day, I knew I couldn’t hack it. I knew my father was tougher than I would ever be. Some jobs are like that. They require a certain grit. And for that reason, these jobs require tough people. Nursing, trucking, childcare providers, the trades—have you noticed that no matter how much they talk about automation, these are the jobs that continue to be in demand? Welcome to this issue of Elevate, where we explore some of the toughest jobs around. You’ll learn about successful graduates of Western Dakota Tech’s truck driver training program (something that would have made my father proud). You’ll also get some insight into the Black Hills Stock show, which really is another way for us to talk about agriculture, one of the toughest industries around. And you’ll see what’s going on with one of our newest childcare providers in town, Every Child Is Special, which was one of the recipients of Elevate Rapid City’s Childcare Loan Program. Starting a childcare business in the middle of a pandemic? That is as tough as it gets. The best part about these stories is the people and their humility. My father would appreciate that. I remember once, sitting next to him in the cab of his truck, complaining about how hard the work was, he told me, “There are two kinds of people in the world. Those that are humble and those that are about to be. Which one are you?” Tougher words were never spoken. Stay safe and god-speed.
6 ELEVATE • FEB. 2021
Tom Johnson President & CEO
Tom Johnson, President & CEO Dana Borowski, Director of Finance and Operations Matt Brunner, Economic Development Director Shiloh Francis, Communications Director Anna Hays, Public Policy Director Brandis Knudsen, Dir. Of Small Business Development and Investor Relations Mitch Nachtigall, Director of Innovation & Entrepreneurship Rachel Day, Events & Training Manager Andy Greenman, Creative Services Manager Liz Highland, HR Coordinator/Office Manager Becky Knox, Executive Assistant Debbie Leber, Finance Manager & Investor Coordinator Samantha McGrath, Workforce Development & Talent Attraction Manager Loni Reichert, Data Analyst & Program Support Coordinator Design and layout: Andy Greenman Published by the Rapid City Journal Matt Tranquill, Publisher Advertising: mtranquill@gmail.com, 605.394.8301 Printed by Simpson Printing 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 Winona Raney graduated from the Western Dakota Tech Professional Truck Driving program in 2019. Photo by Grace Pritchett
COMMENTS BOX ELDER MOVES FORWARD ON PROJECTS
We are excited to be partnering with Elevate Rapid City. The future is bright. - City of Box Elder
BEAUTYMED OWNER REFLECTS ON 2020
One of the best humans out there! - Jessica Hofmeister So very happy to see this!!! Way to go girl!!! -Peggy Schlechter
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: SODAK MARKETING
We're so excited to partner with Elevate Rapid City into 2021 and a new year! - SoDak Marketing
JANUARY MAGAZINE
Have you seen the magazine from @Elevate_RC? Lots of cool stories highlighting business growth in Rapid City. This growth is similar to what @SDGOED is seeing across South Dakota! - Joe Fiala
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: BEST GEN MODULAR
Thank you Elevate for all you are doing in, and around, Rapid City. We are honored to be a part of the community. - Kody Bybee
CALENDAR January 29-30
Deadwood Snocross Showdown
The ISOC Amsoil Championship Snocross Series hits the Black Hills for the ninth annual Deadwood Snocross Showdown. Learn more at deadwood.com.
January 29 - February 6
Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo
The Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo features events, rodeos, and vendors. The region's largest trade show, livestock sales, and competitions. Learn more at blackhillsstockshow.com.
February 5-6
Deadwood Mardi Gras
Don’t miss the best Mardi Gras celebration north of the bayou! Visit Deadwood for a parade, free food, and live music. Learn more at deadwood.com.
February 12-14
Black Hills Sports Show and Outdoor Expo
The Black Hills Sports Show & Outdoor Expo showcases over 100 dealers & vendors and a lineup of events. The Expo brings education and entertainment to the whole family. Learn more at bhsportsshow.com.
February 13-14
4Gmx Indoor Motocross Races
The 4Gmx indoor winter motocross is held at the James Kjerstad Event Center on the Central States Fairgrounds. Learn more at 4gmotocross.com.
February 18-25
Black Hills Film Festival
The 12th annual Black Hills Film Festival will be virtual this year. Learn more and purchase a ticket at blackhillsfilmfestival.org.
CONNECT WITH US! 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
February 27
Last Day to Skate Party
Don’t miss the last day of ice skating at Main Street Square. Skate in paradise at this beach-themed party. Learn more at mainstreetsquare.org.
February 29
Nemo 500 Outhouse Races
Come spend a Saturday in Nemo having a family fun day at the Nemo 500 Outhouse Races and chili cook-off. Learn more at nemo500.com.
Have you recently moved to Rapid City as a remote worker? We'd love to hear about your experience. Email: magazine@elevaterapidcity.com
elevaterapidcity.com 7
Focus Marketing Group
Black Hills Stock Show expects 200,000 attendees
A
by Central States Fair
Stock Show will play a pivotal role in highlighting fter a historically unprecedented year the tremendous talent of the ag community and of cancellations throughout the United broadcast the signal that the community never States stock show circuit, the Black gives up – even when times get tough. The staff Hills Stock Show & Rodeo® is humbled couldn’t be more excited to be the epicenter of to have the opportunity to return in its 63rd year as a pillar of strength for the entire agriculture the ag community’s strength as thousands of families make the journey to industry. On track to open January 29th, running through visit and take part in the show. "To think they’ve had General Manager Ron February 6th, the 2021 show will serve as a light at the end nowhere to showcase their Jeffries couldn’t have said it of the tunnel for the millions hard work is all the more better when he commented on the importance of using of spectators, showmen and reason for us to provide the this platform to help the vendors across America that best show ever." have experienced setbacks ag community regain its momentum. related to major stock show -Ron Jeffries General Manager, Central States Fair “So many cattlemen, cancellations in places like Ft. showmen and youth have Worth and Denver. worked tirelessly to raise Welcoming visitors from across the country, strong numbers are their herds of cattle, horses, and beyond – and anticipated for this year’s show, with projections to think they’ve had nowhere to showcase their hard work is all the more reason for us to of over 200,000 expected attendees during the course of the 10-day event. With nowhere else to provide the best show ever, with opportunities to help bring a smile and great value to all in showcase their hard work, this year’s Black Hills 8 ELEVATE • FEB. 2021
"We’re in the business of developing lasting relationships and providing an immense platform to help our people grow their businesses."
Photo by Scootemnshootem Photography
-Ron Jeffries
attendance,” said Jeffries. “We’re in the business of developing lasting relationships and providing an immense platform to help our people grow their businesses – something we’ll never give up on. The ag community has never given up on us and we’ll never give up on them.” Having borne witness to the strong impact stock show cancellations have posed on the ag community, the Black Hills Stock Show team has worked tirelessly to design a show that both attracts and provides value for cattlemen and showmen who’ve been affected by the setbacks of 2020. And while the Stock Show has always remained unique for its on-site auctioning and unmistakable marketing power, they have solutions to accommodate for the challenges posed by the present health climate and better prepare their showmen for financial success. Seeing to the expansion of efforts to create an environment conducive to the needs of spectators unable to attend in person, the development of online, real-time bidding for the ever-popular Horse and Cattle Shows will have profound effects on cattlemen looking to highlight the diverse genetics of their herds. Whether you’re in California or Maine or anywhere in between, you’ll have the ability to bid on the Stock Show’s prized cattle and horses – all it takes is pre-qualification to participate! It’s no wonder 90% of our showmen from 2020 are returning in 2021. Taking matters one step further, the rapid expansion of the youth show will additionally attract an entirely new audience and demographic (youth ages 8-21) to Rapid City and
the beautiful state of South Dakota. With a wide variety of new categories introduced for this year’s show, the Civic Center will be bursting at the seams with countless youth from all corners of the nation. For many of the youth attending, this year’s show will be their first exposure to the magic of the Black Hills Stock Show and its commitment to the ag community. More importantly, this show may be the only place they are able to compete for the entire year, so no shortcuts were taken to enhance their life-changing experience. Showing beef, goats and sheep, the Black Hills Stock Show will be the place to be for a large portion of our nation’s youth ag competitors and will ideally set the stage for future success in the years to come. On top of all of the opportunities offered, what many people don’t realize is just how affordable the Black Hills Stock Show is to attend and partake in. With free entry into the show and a majority of the events, affordable local lodging, dining, and entry costs, this show is easily the most affordable show you’ll find on such a grand scale, while still offering the same grand prizes and competitiveness found at stock shows in large cities. To this effect, the Black Hills Stock Show will welcome an entirely new audience of showmen and cattlemen to this year’s event simply because they care for the people. To view the lineup of entertainment and events or to learn more about the Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo®, please visit their website at BlackHillsStockShow.com.
2021 Highlights: Jan. 29, Merck Stray Gathering Jan. 30, Stockman's Banquet and Ball Jan. 31, Jackpot Team Roping Feb. 2, Official Ranch Rodeo Feb. 6, Boots and Beer Festival View all events at BlackHillsStockShow.com
elevaterapidcity.com 9
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share the warmth. Many families in our community are experiencing financial hardships and struggling to pay their energy bills. Black Hills Cares* is a way for you to help our neighbors in need. Whether it’s a one-time or monthly donation, we’ll match your gift dollar-for-dollar. To donate, visit blackhillsenergy.com/bhcares.
*Black Hills Cares is a program of the Black Hills Corp. Foundation, a 501©(3) nonprofit. Contributions to the Foundation may be tax deductible to the donor. ©87108_20
elevaterapidcity.com 11
Revitalizing downtown, one façade at a time
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FEB. 2 • 9 Presenter:
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owntown is the heart and soul of any community. From shopping and dining to arts and culture and everything in between, you don’t have to go far to find what you are looking for. Main Street Square has given Rapid City’s downtown an even more unique draw, providing a central place for familyfriend and community-wide events. And while small businesses work hard to provide product and a positive customerexperience inside, it makes it hard to commit resources and prioritize the exterior.
Matt Stone, CFP, CBA, CVA
CREATING A CULTURE OF SUCCESS AND SOLUTIONS Learn best practices and develop a culture of success
FEB. 18 Presenter:
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Chairman of the SD Humanities Council
"The Elevate Downtown Façade Loan Program helps make that heart beat stronger, makes that soul sing louder." -Tom Johnson President & CEO, Elevate Rapid City
In commitment to revitalizing the downtown and surrounding area, stimulate private sector investment, and spur job creation, Elevate Rapid City has created a Downtown Façade Loan Program. Businesses in or near the downtown business district looking to make visible improvements to the overall façade of their building can apply for no-to-low interest loans for up to 10 years. “Downtown is both the heart and soul of any community,” says Elevate President & CEO Tom Johnson. “The Elevate Downtown Façade Loan Program helps make that heart beat stronger, makes that soul sing louder.” For more information or to download the application, visit elevaterapidcity.com. 12 ELEVATE • FEB. 2021
LEARN MORE AT ELEVATERAPIDCITY.COM Question: : What are the holidays to alternate for visitations with children? Answer: It is essential that parents work out ways for children to enjoy holidays with both families. If agreements cannot be reached, Effective July 1, 2020, South Dakota Guidelines: School Age Children: MLK, President’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, NAD, Halloween, Thanksgiving. Christmas Day and split school Vacation. There are slight differences for children under age 5 with parents in same or nearby community. If parents are separating, Black Hills Mediation and Law can assist you in developing a Parenting Plan for your children, whether it is a divorce or unwed situation.. 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
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We at A&B Business Solutions want to say an enormous ‘THANK YOU’ to each of our customers, both big and small, long-time or brand new. Without the honor of serving your business, we wouldn’t have the privilege of celebrating this milestone. In celebration of our 40th Anniversary we want to give back to our customers, partners, and friends by doing 40 GIVEAWAYS throughout this year.
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Downtown food co-op raises over $ 17,000 for Feeding South Dakota
I
By Main Street Square / Photos by Andy Greenman
strongest co-op presences in the Midwest and n 2000, Breadroot Natural Foods the new Breadroot General Manager Allan Cooperative was started by community Burkard has brought his specialized knowledge members who wanted to bring affordable, to Rapid City. “We are pretty fortunate in Rapid delicious, nutritional, and local food to a City to have such a strong co-op at Breadroot. single storefront. That idea has been able to The size of the store and the offerings rival keep this unique store open for over 20 years. those of the Twin Cities,” said “When you shop at Burkard. Breadroot, you are keeping "You're supporting a “What makes Breadroot so your money in [Rapid City], unique is we are located in and supporting the community business with integrity you live in. You're supporting the regional hub. We can offer that builds connections regional producers [from] as a business with integrity with local farmers, close as Piedmont all the way that builds connections with local farmers, ranchers, and ranchers, and producers." to Buffalo, Wyoming. It's great to offer our community quality producers,” stated Rachel -Rachel Wester, Wester, Marketing Manager for products at a reasonable Marketing Manager, Breadroot Breadroot. price. That is why co-ops were founded — that and to support The idea of food co-ops the local producers.” have been around for centuries however the Burkard joined the team at Breadroot in modern co-op has been around for 150 years. December from the Twin Cities and has eyes on Originating in Europe during the industrial revolution, modern co-ops gained popularity in expanding to match co-ops in larger cities such the 1960’s in the United States. as Minneapolis and Portland. “With the pandemic, we have noticed the The Twin Cities currently have one of the
elevaterapidcity.com 15
trend to reconnect to family and that all begins in the kitchen and at the dinner table; not to mention a trend to support purchasing local during these tough times,” added Burkard. One of the main principles of a co-op is a commitment to the community. Breadroot has made this a priority since their inception and the Board of Directors and team continue to keep giving back to the community. Breadroot has raised over $17,000 as part of their Money Matching Drive for Feeding South Dakota and continues to make donations. Organizations such as Working Against Violence, Inc. also receive support organized by the Board and staff at Breadroot. On January 1st, Breadroot launched the “Donate a Dollar” campaign allowing customers to donate to a local organization providing essential care to those in need in our community. During the months of January and February, monies raised will benefit the Hope Center. With the resurgence of co-ops, Breadroot will continue to offer the best regional products at a reasonable price to its members/ owners as well as the public.
"With the expansion of downtown living and the connection to downtown and the School of Mines, we hope to grow for the community." -Allan Burkhard, General Manager, Breadroot
Over the past 20 years, Breadroot outgrew three buildings before moving to their current location in 2015, where they continue to serve downtown Rapid City. “Without a grocery store in downtown Rapid City, we continue to fill a void. But with the expansion of downtown living and the connection to downtown and the School of Mines, we hope to grow for the community,” stated Burkard. “With the emphasis recently on natural and organic offerings, we fill that need but also offer a variety of items including local meats and other items to promote wellness. We hope to continue to grow — there is so much potential in Rapid City and the region,” added Burkard. 16 ELEVATE • FEB. 2021
Do you need to be a member to shop at Breadroot? You don’t need to be a co-op member to shop at Breadroot, but members receive deep discounts and can partake in member appreciation events. What does a co-op mean? Members own the business and have a say in operations. No single person benefits from co-op profits; instead, profits are dispersed as dividends, community giveback, or reinvested into the co-op for store improvements for community benefit. How does Breadroot choose which producers to work with? Producers must contact the store. If approved by the managers and staff, the local products can be on the shelves within days. Breadroot currently has over 300 local products from over 30 local vendors. Why are co-ops important? Investing in a co-op strengthens an alternative business model that believes in putting people and planet before profit, every day. By shopping at a co-op, you're supporting companies who put ethics in the forefront of decision making when producing products.
elevaterapidcity.com 17
Winona Raney 18 ELEVATE • FEB. 2021
Western Dakota Tech truck driving students follow road to passion
by Siandhara Bonnet, Rapid City Journal Staff Photos by Grace Pritchett
Winona Raney proved to herself and everyone who said she couldn’t that she could drive big trucks. “Sometimes I work around some old, old greasy men... and here I come, a little girl,” she said. “They tell me, ‘you can’t drive a truck, you can’t drive that, how do you even fit?’ Those are the ones I wanted to prove that I can do this shit.”
elevaterapidcity.com 19
“No matter where you go, you can find a truck job.” - Jay Bates, 2019 Graduate
Jay Banick, program director of the professional truck driving program, goes through a truck driving simulation at Western Dakota Tech.
So she did. Raney graduated from the Western Dakota Tech Professional Truck Driving program in 2019 and now drives for Lind-Exco, a company that provides general contracting, underground utility infrastructure and site preparation, along with mass excavating and trucking. Raney said she was driving for her dad while she had her permit. She said she realized no one would hire her until she got her license, so she joined the program. Western Dakota Tech has had its progressional truck driving program for about 21 years. Program director and instructor Jay Banick said he’s been teaching it for about three and half years and has about 40 to 50 students graduate a year. The South Dakota Department of Labor named heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers as one of the state’s top 30 hot careers and expect 1,100 annual openings between 2018 and 2028, the highest of any of the other careers. It reported the average wage for the profession in 2019 was $43,582 in August 2020. The six-week truck driving program starts in a classroom with a truck simulator, which allows students to navigate driving a truck in a variety 20 ELEVATE • FEB. 2021
of circumstances along with shifting gears. Once students are more comfortable, they drive one of three semi-trucks in the Western Dakota Tech driving range where Banick teaches them to backup and do cornering. Once they’re comfortable with that, he said they go out and drive around Rapid City and the Black Hills everyday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Before students drive, though, students start with a truck inspection to make sure the tires are good, the brakes are working, lights work and more. Banick said safety is the most important thing in his course. “There’s just so many people out there that don’t pay attention, beyond truck drivers,” he said. Jay Bates, who graduated from the program in November 2019 after his 21st birthday and drives locally, said safety is huge, especially since he hauls oversize heavy equipment. He said his loads are up to 200,000 pounds. “Even regular trucks you’re looking at your mirrors every 3-5 seconds, checking blind spots,” he said. “But especially with hauling oversized equipment, most of the time, I can’t see out of my mirrors. I don’t know where everything is behind
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me when I have a huge bucket behind me or a widescreen.” Bates said sometimes extra spot mirrors help. He said he also waits for turning corners to look down the side of his trailer to see if anyone is beside him on the road. Banick said there are a lot of jobs out there in Rapid City for truck drivers, and he said he has a 100% of placements if a student wants a job. However, he said it’s hard to find drivers and companies have started calling the program for its driving students. “No matter where you go, whatever you buy, whatever you look at...a truck brought it,” Bates said. “No matter where you go, you can find a truck job.”
“There are so many jobs in this area and place, there’s a wide variety to keep you here and around home.” - Jay Bates
Jay Banick
22 ELEVATE • FEB. 2021
Bates said he got into trucking because his dad drove trucks. He said he loved riding with him and loved driving. He said the good thing about being a local driver is that he gets to come home every night, see his parents everyday and on the weekends. He also said he usually only works from May to November and gets paid the months he’s off, too. “Just because you get a CDL doesn’t mean you have to go over the road,” Bates said. “There are so many jobs in this area and place, there’s a wide variety to keep you here and around home. You might work some long days, but you get to come home every night.” Raney said she works from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. year-round, so it’s easy on family life, too. The next Western Dakota Tech Professional Truck Driving class will be Feb. 1. Class A is $3,999, which includes tuition, fees, training materials and the driving test. Class B costs $1,799 and is two weeks long. Enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Preparing Businesses for the B-21 Beddown
T
By Shiloh Francis
Hills Military Advisory Coalition. This forum he record of decision regarding gave even greater insight for businesses about Ellsworth and the B-21 will be the type of projects that will be needed for the announced in May. But in true Black beddown. Hills fashion, no one is sitting around Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for waiting. There is still work that can be done to Installations, Environment, and Energy, the prepare our community and businesses for the Honorable John W. Henderson, provided expansion. keynote remarks and emphasized the We know this expansion will not only bring importance of industry partnership: “We can more military members to the region, but also only be successful when opportunities for contract we proactively work as a jobs. Helping local businesses “We can only be successful team with our industry and prepare to do business with when we proactively work community partners to ensure the government has been a key focus the past few months. as a team with our industry a common understanding of plan, our timeline, potential In the fall, Elevate Rapid and community partners." our environmental impacts, and the City partnered with the South - Honorable John W. Henderson assistance that we’ll need from Dakota Governor’s Office of Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Economic Development and the private sector once the Installations, Environment, and Energy Record of Decision is signed by the Procurement Technical the secretary of the Air Force.” Assistance Center to host a Future B-21 industry days virtual series. In this series are expected to continue to prepare the region’s businesses were able to learn about the business community for future beddown resources available and steps to take to apply for government contracts – for the base and construction opportunities. Those interested in accessing the replay for beyond. these webinars can visit elevaterapidcity.com/ The new year kicked off with a B-21 Industry govcontracts. Day forum hosted in partnership with the Black
24 ELEVATE • FEB. 2021
ELEVATE RAPID CITY
CRACKERBARREL
JA N UA RY 3 0 • F E B R UA RY 2 0 • F E B R UA RY 2 7 • M A R C H 6
Join us online or in-person at the Western Dakota Tech Event Center! Each Crackerbarrel takes place from 9-11 a.m. MEDIA PARTNER
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Elevate Rapid City to host hybrid crackerbarrels
T
By Elevate Rapid City
he 96th South Dakota Legislative Session has begun. Bills are being debated and voted on, with the proponents’ hope they become law. While South Dakota is small, Pierre still creates distance between voters and the legislators who represent them. Crackerbarrels have been a long-standing tradition of the South Dakota legislative process. They serve as a way to bridge the gap and allow constituents the TUNE-IN: opportunity to hear from • January 30 and ask questions of area • February 20 legislators. Elevate Rapid • February 27 City will once again be • March 6 continuing the tradition of hosting crackerbarrels that started when they were called the Chamber of Commerce. But this year, with a new flair. To continue prioritizing the safety of the community by maintaining social distancing, in-person attendance needed to be capped at 50 people. But Elevate knows the importance of allowing people to engage in the legislative process. They have partnered with HomeSlice Media Group to provide a free, livestream on the Dakota Town Hall Facebook page. Additionally, an online form has been made available where questions can be submitted in advance. • Crackerbarrels will be 9 to 11 am at the Western Dakota Tech Event Center (max attendance of 60) • Masks are Required • Go online for the form and more information: elevaterapidcity.com/crackerbarrel
26 ELEVATE • FEB. 2021
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215 East Jackson Blvd Spearfish, SD 57783 605-559-2422
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SHERYL FINCH 2021 ARTIST OF THE YEAR...AGAIN! As part of Arts Expression month in February, we will be celebrating, once again, Sheryl Finch as Artist of the Year. Last January, Sheryl was crowned the Suzie Cappa Art Center’s 2020 Artist of the Year. HOW TO BUY ART: » PRIVATE TOUR call 791-3578 to schedule » FACEBOOK facebook.com/suzie.cappa/ » EBAY ebay.com/usr/suziecappaartcenter
This year, in light of the nonevent that was 2020, it was decided to extend Sheryl’s recognition through 2021.
Congratulations, Sheryl!
722 St Joseph St|Rapid City, SD 57701|(605) 791-3578|Currently not open to the general public.
elevaterapidcity.com 27
Childcare center to bring new life to vacant church
W
By Andy Greenman
spent much of his life caring for adolescents, and hile house shopping on the West has seen the recent population growth in Rapid side of town, Ryan Zens noticed City, as childcare centers have filled-up and a unique structure for sale. It many have extended waitlists. was much larger than he had Before diving into a new business venture, the envisioned, but this property caught his eye. two polled neighborhoods and discovered they Zens parked his car along South Canyon Road needed to help. Zens and Waldo purchased the and walked up to the front steps of the Seventhchurch in December 2020. “We Day Adventist Church. A pastor want to fill a need and thought inside surprised him and asked if he wanted a grand tour of the "We’ve designed a facility this was the best option,” said Zens. With their 36 years of 1950 building. that will offer great combined childcare experience, The pastor took him through aspects and the different they set forth with their mission the classrooms, kitchen and sides of child care." open spaces when Zens realized, to provide high quality of care to families. this was “a facility that could -Ryan Zens When the center opens, Every offer amazing childcare to the Co-Owner, Every Child Counts Child is Special will offer care area.” from 2-13 years of age. The A veteran childcare worker, Zens has a life-long passion for facility will hold programs that helping children and families. He spent 11 years include preschool, toddler care, special needs, summer camps and after school. What sets them helping children at Ellsworth Air Force Base and apart is having an RN, Waldo, on site. the past 14 years at Monument Health. While a new sprinkler system is currently It was there at Monument Health he met RN being installed, Zens is working towards finding Alfred Waldo, who had moved to Rapid City from the Philippians in 2018. Waldo has also the right staff. He requires all employees to have
28 ELEVATE • FEB. 2021
Alfred Waldo and Ryan Zens
a Child Development Associate (CDA) degree, and “have experience to help mold and grow the children, the classroom work and dayto-day activities.” They will also make sure the staff receives continuous training and is knowledgeable of all situations. The center received assistance from Elevate Rapid City when they received a $25,000 childcare loan. The loan program was created to assist childcare providers experiencing challenges as a result of Covid-19. Zens said the funds will contribute to an extended learning classroom for students. “When they are not in school, they can still do their learning and be connected. It will provide internet and nice desks as well as pandemic relief.” Just as the Adventist Church has done for the past 70 years, Every Child is Special will continue to help children and families. Parties interested in viewing the remodeled parish will soon be able to take a virtual tour on Facebook. Every Child is Special plans to open this spring.
Learn more about Every Child is Special on the Elevate Rapid City YouTube channel.
elevaterapidcity.com 29
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32 ELEVATE • FEB. 2021
New programs roll out to Elevate the Rapid City region for everyone By Tom Johnson
D
onald Rumsfeld, former Secretary of Defense for President George W. Bush, famously said there are known knowns, known unknowns, and unknown unknowns. At the time, Rumsfeld was widely mocked, but over the last two decades, the simple wisdom of Rumsfeld’s words have shown themselves to be true again and again. What Rumsfeld was basically saying is that when predicting the future, there are things you know you can predict, things you know you cannot predict, and things you have no idea are coming. So what’s the outlook for the Black Hills economy in 2021? If 2020 is any indication, we’ll be getting a little of each. First, let’s start with the things we know are coming, population growth and a demand for housing. It was true before the pandemic, where the area was averaging between 1,500 and 2,000 new people each year. And the pandemic only seems to have accelerated this growth. Whether it’s the anticipated base expansion, the quality of life of the Black Hills, or just people fleeing cities on lockdown, the region won’t stop growing and the demand for housing will come along with it. Next are the things we can take a reasonable guess at but know we can’t predict for certain— things like the unemployment rate, interest rates, inflation, commercial vacancy rates, and when the hospitality economy complete
recovers and we are on the other side of the pandemic. Things continue to look up, however. Unemployment is low, interest rates remain at rock-bottom rates, inflation is pegged at just 2%, and it looks like more stimulus money and vaccines are on the horizon. Finally, there are the things we can’t know are coming. By definition, we can’t predict them, but they could include things like natural disasters, political and social unrest, market crashes, geopolitical conflicts, and pandemics (as we learned last year). We can plan for crisis in general and save for a rainy day, but when and how that rain manifests itself is left to oracles and chance. So what can we control? As the stoics said, only our thoughts and our actions. Here at Elevate Rapid City, our actions in 2021 will allow us to roll out programs that will help small business (Downtown Façade Loan Program), workforce development (training and grants for employees and workers), and entrepreneurs (our new Ascent Innovation Center). We’ll also continue to advocate for the interests of the Black Hills business community and for continued investments in quality of life. And what about our thoughts? As we look to the horizon in 2021, we’ll continue to remain steadfast to our mission, to Elevate the Rapid City region for everyone. It’s a prediction sure to come true.
POPULATION TRENDS
The population of Rapid City MSA steadily increases
136,462
2016
138,458
2017
140,167
2018
142,118
2019
143,691
2020
145,248
2021
Source: Emsi
elevaterapidcity.com 33
Jeremy Thomas finds 'the right people' for Innovative Systems
A
By Andy Greenman
nyone that has spent time in Ascent Innovation has probably crossed paths with Jeremy Thomas. “J.T.” as many call him, has spent the past 20 years recruiting and mentoring students of South Dakota Mines. The South Dakota Mines graduate didn’t venture far from campus to begin his career. J.T. became employed at CHR Solutions located in the Black Hills Business Development Center, now Ascent Innovation. He spent 16 years working at the telecommunications company before moving down the hall to Innovative Systems. J.T. is now in his fourth year as Software Manager at Innovative Systems Rapid City office. He is tasked with recruiting up to 12 Hardrockers each spring from the South Dakota Mines Science Department. The interns are mostly juniors and seniors, and some high achieving sophomores who "started programming in high school." J.T. states that one of the “hardest problems
in software is having the right people.” He appreciates when an intern returns to work a second year, but understands when a student wants to try something else. Interns at Innovative Systems are developing software for a program called eLation™. The program runs financial, billing and business operations used by telephone and mid-sized utility companies throughout the country. Interns gain knowledge, school credits and payment for their time at Innovative Systems. The internship works as a recruiting pipeline for the Mitchell-based company. While he has watched interns find jobs with Microsoft, Amazon, and Garmin, he tries to find students that want to stay in South Dakota. J.T. takes pride in mentoring the younger generation. He goes the extra step to help them understand company culture, benefits and even how to negotiate a salary as they begin their careers. “I want to help that individual. It’s not always for the company.”
“I want to help that individual. It’s not always for the company.” -Jeremy Thomas,
Software Manager, Innovative Systems
THIS OR THAT? Extrovert Introvert1 C#2 C++ Amazon Cloud Microsoft Azure Black Coffee Coffee with Cream3 Ski Snowboard E-reader4 Paper Mountain Bike5 Road Bike Pactola Lake6 Sheridan Lake Mac PC Android Iphone 1. I am an "extroverted" introvert. 2. C++ is painful after you have written in C# 3. Heavy whipping cream - I might be addicted to coffee! 4. I love my device... Nerd alert. 5. I enjoy both, but big tires win. 6. Pactola Lake has better scenery and clearer water 34 ELEVATE • FEB. 2021
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