Black HIlls Lifestyle - May 2024

BLACK HILLS LIFESTYLE

Meet the Matriarch of Hill City

Wally Matush

MEET Dr. Tyler Juhlin

Dr. Tyler Juhlin grew up in Norfolk, Nebraska in the northeast part of the state. He loves the great outdoors, so following graduation from University of Nebraska Medical Center, he decided to make the Black Hills his home. Dr. Juhlin provides general dentistry and Invisalign treatment to all age groups, and he’s eager to give his patients the best treatment available.

JOURNEY OF HOPE: NEW BOOK BY BLACK HILLS WORKS FOUNDATION

ON TREND RARE FINDS SPEND YOUR LIFE ON THE 18TH HOLE TOP SHELF CONSTRUCTION

team of writers

Glenn Kirst, Kristina Roth, Maggie Jean Wince, Michaela Feldmann, Molly Barari, Tanya Manus BLACK HILLS LIFESTYLE

Account Executives

Kaylee Langseth 712-574-0618 | kaylee@michelscom.com

Patty Stover 605-390-2617 | patty@michelscom.com

Teresa Nestor 605-484-0918 | teresa@michelscom.com

Editor

Margi Culhane 605-940-4724 | margi@michelscom.com

graphic designer

Melissa Chinn melissa.chinn@michelscom.com

Photography

Henry Roy Photography

Director of Digital Marketing

Cory Johnsen 605-951-3567 | cory@michelscom.com

regional MARKET manager

GSM Black Hills

Kevin Culhane 605-661-8509 | kevin@michelscom.com

chief of operations

Hanna Michels 605-760-4269 | hanna@michelscom.com

Every month Black Hills Lifestyle showcases local human interest stories along with beauty, fashion, family, home, career, health and nutrition information all with beautiful photography. Black Hills Lifestyle also feature businesses, men and women in the Black Hills region. Want to subscribe to Black Hills Lifestyle and receive a copy in your mailbox every month? One year subscription is only $40.

© Copyright 2024 Michels Communications

Wally Matush

Meet the Matriarch of Hill City

By Molly Barari, Photography by Henry Roy Photography

As the founder of Hill City’s wildly popular Alpine Inn, Waldtraut “Wally” Matush, 84, is a local celebrity. That being said, Wally’s least favorite place to be is in the spotlight. She had to be convinced by her two daughters, Moni and Debbie, to let us feature her as this month’s cover woman.

“Should I do it?” she asks her daughter, Moni, as she sits down to meet with me for our interview. We are seated at a table inside the beautiful Alpine Inn, which is celebrating 40 years in business this year. It’s the middle of the afternoon and soft piano music plays in the background, so it’s calm and relaxed inside the restaurant.

Wally is elegant, wearing a dress and perfectly applied makeup. In fact, she later tells me when she first came to the United States, she never wore slacks—and it’s in the Alpine dress code for female employees to wear skirts or dresses. “People appreciate it,” she says matter-of-factly.

“Yes, you should do it, Mom,” urges Moni, who took over operations around 1998. “People want to know about your life.” Wally flashes me an embarrassed smile and shrugs, “Well, okay.”

She is soft-spoken and humble, but she exudes inner strength and confidence at the same time.

I immediately feel her warmth as she speaks with me, but she is no-nonsense, too. She has been independent for a long time, and it shows.

Wally hails from Stuttgart, Germany, and she came to the United States in 1961. Her husband at the time was in the military and got stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base. They arrived in Hill City in 1972, purchasing the Alpine building in 1974. She had no experience running a restaurant, but that didn’t stop her.

Back then, the building housed a coffee shop and gift shop. It evolved to serving breakfast and lunch around 1979, and it wasn’t until 1984 that it turned into the steakhouse that we all know and love— featuring its signature filet mignon, potato, and Texas toast, with a wedge salad to start and desserts like the Napoleon and Brownie Delight for a sweet finish.

That’s been the only menu from the beginning, and Wally was heavily involved in the cooking and preparation of the menu. The Alpine Inn also has four rooms upstairs, decorated in Old West Victorian charm, which folks can rent for lodging. (Fun fact: It originally operated as a bed and breakfast.)

When Wally first arrived in Hill City, she describes it as “a quiet little village” compared with where she resided in Germany. “There was not much going on here at all,” she explains, “but there was a beauty within the people that I really loved. They were very kind to me, and some of them connected with me over our shared German heritage.”

“I knew right away this was where I wanted to live. This is where I wanted to be.”

Wally’s love for Hill City inspired her to build the Old World Plaza on Main Street after she sold the Alpine to Moni. The Old World Plaza features shops that were designed to look similar to the European shops that Wally remembers from her past. She was inspired by a similar shopping area that she saw while visiting Carmel, California.

“I try to make the rent very reasonable for the shop owners,”

It gives me great joy every time I see Wally because she is an inspiration and a reminder of what she has done for others, especially women in generations past and future, with her encouragement, her tremendous work ethic, her philanthropy, her leadership, her strength of character, her humility and her love.

Janet Wetovick-Bily Executive Director, Hill City Area Chamber of Commerce

Wally fashionable young professional seamstress in Stuttgart Germany-a craft she would bring to America

Wally’s city Ribbon Cutting ceremony for her newly opened the Old World Plaza

Debbie, Wally & Moni at the Alpine Inn

Wally Matish is one of the most influential and inspirational individuals I have ever known. The quality of the food, the service, the way you treat people-I learned from her. I worked for her when I was younger. I went to school for nursing, when we came back here to raise our family I chose to work for Wally...It has been about 30 years total now. I have never met a kinder, more giving person to others and to this community. She is my greatest inspiration, I love her!

Melissa Server at the Alpine Inn

Wally says. “I want them to make it, and I remember how hard it was for me.” She was also involved in the building of the A-frame townhomes that overlook Hill City’s 1880 Train depot.

Outside of her professional life, Wally describes her personal life as one with great independence—but also one with copious unconditional love.

Growing up, Wally didn’t have a big family, and she was used to being on her own. She was only 10 years old when her mother died and 24 years old when her father died.”

She got divorced in 1984 and has never remarried. “I’ve had some friends in the meantime, but they all passed away,” she says.

Along with her two daughters, Wally has a son, Michael, who lives in Tennessee. She has three grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren. “We are a very close-knit family,” says Wally. “She is known for loving people unconditionally,” adds Moni. “And they love me back,” says Wally.

“She loves to visit with all her guests,” says Moni. “She’s become friends with 40 years’ worth of people. As young kids, people would come in and she’d give them a quarter for the candy machine. Now, they are adults with kids of their own.”

In fact, in the forty years she’s been involved with the Alpine, there was never a day that Wally dreaded coming to work. “It’s magical here. I designed it to be comfortable and homey so people felt at home here. It’s always been a special place, the place I wanted to be.”

That’s why Wally still cooks soups and lunch specials Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. She also helps as a hostess a couple of nights a week.

When I ask Wally what a perfect day looks like for her, it would start by making soup at the Alpine and then she’d go home to work in her garden.

“I never had time for hobbies when I was running the restaurant,” admits Wally. “But now I love gardening and being in my book club. Lately, I’ve been reading a lot of Colleen Hoover books.”

In her free time now, Wally is involved with a sorority that she has been part of since the 1970s. The group is involved with charity projects and community service. She also enjoys watching Hallmark movies and going to Black Hills Symphony Orchestra concerts and chamber music concerts.

She plays cards, and she can regularly be found watching the news, because she appreciates knowing what’s going on in the world— especially in Europe. She occasionally watches “soccer” – also known as football. She even watched the Superbowl this year!

When asked about her role models, Wally names her aunt Katarina Ludwig, who was one of the first German silent film stars. Her aunt was also Jewish, which is why the restaurant displays a Star of David. “I do it to honor her,” she explains. “I am not religious myself, but I am spiritual.”

Katherina Ludwig (L)-aunt, mentor and greatest supporter of Wally (R)

Wally in the back kitchen early days of the Alpine Inn

Her daughters have learned many lessons throughout the years from Wally.

“I’ve always looked up to her. She taught me how to work hard and how to treat people,” says Moni. “We’ve had employees who were with us more than 30 years and retired from here. She taught me to always treat people the way you want to be treated.”

Debbie, who also works at the restaurant to keep things running smoothly, agrees,

“She taught me work ethic and honesty. If you want something done, you have to do it. She’s also incredibly giving and wants people to succeed.”

“I am so proud of Moni and Debbie,” Wally says. “I tell Moni she can’t ever sell the Alpine—at least until I’m dead.” She chuckles, but I can tell she’s quite serious.

“My father always used to say, before you walk, you crawl—and I really believe that,” says Wally. “Hard work and consistency made me successful.”

Photos left to right: German toddler Wally Matush and her mother and father; Supportive of Hill City education, Wally often dressed up for school activities for the children; Wally and daughter

Monie roasting chestnuts streetside-a Hill City holiday tradition; Wally with her traditional German Christmas tree with real candle lights

6

1

2 3 4 5 6

FUN FACTS ABOUT

Wally Matush

She rode horses when she was younger and always dreamed of living a life on a ranch.

She had a small role in the movie “Orphan Train” in 1979. She also helped out as a seamstress for the film.

She was nominated for the Spirit of Dakota Award, which celebrates women who made an impact and inspired people in the community.

She ran for Hill City mayor at one time and lost by one vote. The city also proclaimed a “Wally Matush Day” in the 1980s to honor her.

She shoveled 10 tons of coal every month when she first bought the Alpine, as the building was heated by steam. She would shovel coal three times a day.

Prior to the Alpine Inn and the Old World Plaza, Wally began her career in Hill City as a professional seamstress. She loved to sew and was known for her excellent work. She fondly recalled the making of judicial robes for former South Dakota state senator, judge and Supreme Court Justice, Frank E. Henderson.

For those of us who live and work in Hill City, there’s no better living example of love, joy in work, leadership by example and the Spirit of South Dakota. Wally is a pillar of Hill City.

BLACK HILLS LIFESTYLE BHL

We want to take this opportunity to thank you – our readers and partners – for your continued business and support. Since 2016, we have been inspired, shed some tears and laughed with you on this incredible journey of making a difference in the Black Hills. Here’s to celebrating eight years of the amazing journey, as well as the creative community that inspires it – connecting all of us through the empowerment of men and women and their stories. As we continue to grow together, we reflect on how grateful we are for being a part of something we are so passionate about – supporting each other’s dreams and discovering strong and amazing people. Thank you for a wonderful eight years and for many more to come!

LOCAL EXPERTS IN:

PROS AND CONS OF TAKING SOCIAL SECURITY AT AGE 62 VS. 67 VS. 70

BY GLENN KIRST

As you approach retirement, you’ll find timing your decision to officially retire hinges on a lot of variables. There’s a lot to consider beyond just being ready to stop working.

You’ll have to think about how the different pieces of your financial plan will work together once you retire. One important part of the plan is deciding when to claim Social Security. While you’re eligible claim at 62, there may be benefits to waiting until age 67 or 70.

Below, we discuss why timing is so important when it comes to your Social Security benefits. We also walk through the pros and cons of claiming Social Security at 62 vs. 67 vs. 70 to help guide your thinking.

Why does age matter when you claim Social Security?

Social Security is a government program designed to give American workers a source of income during retirement. It also provides disability and survivors’ benefits if you meet certain eligibility requirements.

The program works like this: In your working years, you are required to contribute a certain portion of your income to Social Security. If you work for an employer, you contribute 6.2 percent of your pay, and your employer pays 6.2 percent. If you are self-employed, you pay the full 12.4 percent yourself (up to a certain amount).

Each year you work and earn the minimum amount required ($6,920 for 2024), you receive a maximum of four credits. Once you have earned 40 credits (usually after 10 years of work), you become eligible to receive Social Security payments.

To receive the full amount you’re entitled to, you must have reached a certain age, known as your full retirement age. The full retirement age is between 66 and 67, depending on

the year you were born. You can claim benefits before or after your full retirement age—but doing so will change the amount you receive.

If you choose to claim Social Security before you reach full retirement age, you’ll receive a lower monthly payment for the rest of your life. Exactly how much of a reduction you see will depend on how early you start claiming. If, on the other hand, you choose to delay claiming Social Security, you’ll see your benefit increase by 8 percent for every year you delay until age 70.

How to decide when to take Social Security

As you can see, the age at which you choose to start claiming Social Security will impact how much you receive from the program over your lifetime.

While it might seem beneficial to delay claiming benefits as long as possible to get the largest possible monthly benefit, this isn’t always possible—or even recommended. Your Social Security benefit is only one part of your financial picture, so depending on other factors specific to your situation, claiming early might be the best move.

Some factors you may consider when deciding when to take Social Security include:

• Your health and whether you can continue working.

• Your desire to continue working or transition into retirement.

• Benefits your spouse is receiving or entitled to.

• What other retirement savings you have.

There’s a lot here to think about. A financial advisor can help you sort through all these factors and look at your broader plan to help you weigh your options.

Taking Social Security at Age 62

Age 62 is the earliest you can claim Social Security benefits. This is considered early retirement in the eyes of the Social Security Administration.

As noted above, however, claiming Social Security at 62 will result in reduced payments—as much as a 30 percent reduction vs. what you would be entitled to if you retired at your full retirement age. You can also claim at any point after reaching age 62. The closer you get to full retirement age, the smaller the reduction gets. If claiming early means you’ll get less money, you may wonder why anyone would choose to do this. Again—it all depends on your personal situation.

Photo credit: Halfpoint Images

Some situations in which it might make sense to claim early include these:

• You’re no longer able to work and don’t have enough savings to see you through until you reach full retirement age.

• You have a chronic condition or family history of illness that could affect your life expectancy.

• Your spouse earns a higher income and can wait to start claiming a benefit.

Taking Social Security at Age 67

For many people (anyone born in 1960 or after), age 67 is considered the full retirement age. Your full retirement age depends on when you were born.

If you wait to claim until full retirement age, you’re entitled to receive your full Social Security benefit. To calculate this benefit, the Social Security Administration averages your highest 35 years’ worth of your reported earnings using a special formula. Generally, the more you earned (up to a certain amount), the higher your benefit will be.

There are benefits to waiting until full retirement age if you’re able to, including these:

• More years on the job (especially later in your career, when pay may be higher) can help you displace lower-earning years in your work history and boost your monthly check.

• You can continue working (if you want) without worrying about the income limits that can reduce the benefit amount for early retirees.

• When you pass, your spouse would receive a larger survivor’s benefit compared to if you had claimed earlier.

Taking Social Security at age 70

For each month past your full retirement age that you delay claiming Social Security, your monthly benefit will increase, up until you reach 70 years old. Each full year of delay will translate into an 8 percent increase to your benefit. While it’s possible to continue delaying Social Security past

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

A financial

Your

budget can then help

your financial plan on track.

your 70th birthday, doing so won’t net you any additional benefit increases—so be sure to file no later than age 70.

Waiting until you reach age 70 to claim Social Security may make sense for you if:

• You want to receive the highest possible monthly amount you are entitled to from Social Security.

• You want to ensure your spouse will receive the highest possible survivor’s benefit if you pass.

• You’re in good health and expect to live a long life, especially past the average life expectancy.

How do you know when you should retire?

• When you retire and when you choose to claim Social Security benefits are two different decisions. When you choose to retire will depend on many factors—like what you have saved, your health and other life circumstances. When you choose to claim Social Security may not necessarily line up with when you choose to retire. Still, it’s an important decision, as it’ll impact your retirement income for the rest of your life.

• There is no one “right age” to claim that applies to everyone. While there are certainly benefits to delaying, claiming benefits early could make more sense for some people.

• There’s a lot you’ll want to consider when timing your decision: your health and ability to work, your spouse’s health and ability to work, your life expectancy, your other retirement savings and more. Because there are so many factors at play, working with a financial advisor is often the easiest and best way to make the right decision for you.

• By the time you retire, your financial advisor will know your financial situation well. They’ll be able to show you how different claiming decisions will shift your overall financial picture, giving you the information you need to make the right decision for you.

Matthew A. Culhane, RICP Managing Director 909 Saint Joseph Street Suite 202 Rapid City, SD 57701

matt.culhane@nm.com

mattculhane.nm.com

605.999.9367

Through your generous book donations, the Friends of the Library support events at the Rapid City Public Library.

Gently used books are welcome and can be dropped off at the front desk.

Children, Fiction & Non-Fiction

We’ve always believed that dining should be a social occasion, a time when friends, family, and coworkers can enjoy great conversation over a great meal.

We believe in supporting our local artisans and staying connected to our Black Hills community. At a time when the area is growing and expanding, we’re striving to keep the flavor of the region alive.

Inspired by the history of this area, both the aesthetics of the building and the diversity of the menu are true to our local roots, something no nationwide franchise can duplicate. Certainly, there are other steakhouses out there, but none like ours.

Whether it’s rubber or speed you need ...

Tyrrell Tires & Speed Center wants to be Rapid City’s reliable source for tires and more, where men and women will consistently receive excellent service.

“We want people to have a great experience and we want to build their trust. Our goal is that they refer everyone they know to us because they had such a great experience,” said co-owner Autumn Garcia.

Business co-owner and founder Scott Tyrrell first opened Tyrrell Tires in 2012, and the business will soon celebrate the grand opening of its expanded shop. In addition, Tyrrell purchased the oldest speed shop in South Dakota and has grown into Tyrrell Tires & Speed Center, located at 105 N. Cambell St.

“We want to EDUCATE WOMEN about their vehicles”

~ Autumn Garcia

Scott brings 20+ years of experience to his customers, including several years spent managing a Goodyear Tire store in Florida.

“Scott is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to customizing vehicles. We have a large inventory of aftermarket wheels in our showroom. We do a lot of leveling and lift kits to go with wheel and tire packages,” Autumn said.

Their staff includes two lube technicians, a salesman, and two mechanics. During business hours, Tyrrell Tires & Speed Center offers service calls if someone needs help with a flat tire or car problem and can’t get to the shop.

“We do light automotive repairs — oil changes, brakes, front end work like ball joints and suspension work. I don’t think a lot of people know we do that,” Autumn said.

Adding the Speed Center was a personal passion for Scott, who races an IMCA A-modified and a Wissota B-modified dirt track cars. The Speed Center sells hot rod parts, dirt track race car parts, tires for dirt track cars, race car fuel and more.

“Scott thought there was going to be quite a few crossover customers,” Autumn said. “You’d get guys who race to come buy race car parts and fuel, that may also need trailer tires or tires for their other vehicles.”

The automotive business runs in the family for both Scott and Autumn, who are engaged as well as being business partners.

“I’ve been around vehicles my whole life and all of our relatives are in the automotive business one way or another. We’re all involved,” Autumn said.

Tyrrell Tires & Speed Center strives for excellent products and customer service. Autumn especially sets a welcoming tone for women, who often may feel ignored or intimidated at automotive businesses.

THE TIRE PROS: Scott Tyrrell Proud Partner & Owner Autumn Garcia Certified Female-Friendly Tread-Technician

“If you ever go to an auto parts store or go to purchase a vehicle and it’s a man talking to you, they talk to you like you have no idea what you are doing. I’ve always gotten that my whole life,” Autumn said. “I’m trying to change that. I’ve been trying to give women a good experience when they come into the shop, to let them know you can actually go do these things and not have to rely on your boyfriend, husband or father.”

“I’ve had it reiterated to me that I really take the time to help the individual find what they were looking for. I try to help them get what they originally came in for or I’ll educate them (about different options),” Autumn said.

STORE HOURS

MON - THURS: 8:00AM5:30PM

FRIDAY: 8:00AM - 5:00PM

SATURDAY: 8:00AM - NOON

SUNDAY: CLOSED

www.tyrrelltires.com

Follow us on:

PSNI

RING AT THE DAHL

By Maggie Jean Wince, Rapid City Arts Council Staff

In the realm of art education, there are few experiences as rewarding as witnessing a student’s pride in their accomplishments. For Julianne Doherty, also known as “Ms. Jewels” by her students, every day presents an opportunity to inspire and uplift through creativity.

At the heart of Julianne’s teaching philosophy is the belief that every student should feel heard, valued, and capable of reaching their aspirations. She cultivates a safe and nurturing environment that encourages students to step outside their comfort zones and embrace challenges. Studies confirm that art education fosters self-expression and higher self-esteem, empowering students and instilling confidence in their creative abilities, which sets them up for success in life.

Julianne, from New York, found herself in the hills for college. She is pursuing degrees in Art Education and Commercial Art from Black Hills State University. While studying, she noticed a need for art instructors at the Dahl and felt drawn to teach there. Julianne explains why the Dahl was the perfect fit for her: “It doesn’t matter your race, gender, ability, or interest. I’m so grateful to teach classes that students can attend for free. Everyone deserves the opportunity to learn and express themselves.” She adds, “The Dahl truly embodies the spirit of Rapid City by preserving the rich culture of the Black Hills.”

Looking ahead, Julianne is committed to empowering the next generation of artists. She will be teaching summer art camps, dedicated to nurturing the confidence and talents of all students and helping them realize their full potential, solidifying her reputation as an outstanding art teacher.

With camps designed to engage young minds and unleash their artistic potential, it’s the perfect opportunity for children to gain skills and insights under the guidance of Julianne and other exceptional art instructors.

From painting to sculpture, costume design to bookmaking, each camp offers a rich and immersive experience where children can explore, create, and thrive in a supportive and inspiring environment. Whether your child is a budding Picasso or simply curious about the world of art, consider enrolling them in a Summer Camp at the Dahl Arts Center. Join us this summer and let’s inspire the next generation of artists together.

To learn more and get registered for Summer Camps at the Dahl visit rapidcityartscouncil.org/summercamps.

Journeys of Hope: New book by Black Hills Works Foundation

By Kristina Roth

Although the journey of life is different for everyone, we can find encouragement and strength in our shared experiences. That’s equally true for the nearly 600 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are participants in Black Hills Works’ programs. Thanks to a grant from the South Dakota Humanities Council, 65 of them will be featured in Journeys of Hope, a book to be published this spring.

“We are delighted to share the experiences and perspectives of these amazing people in print. They contribute so much to our state as friends, employees, and neighbors, and their voices deserve to be heard,” said Dr. Andrea Serna, Black Hills Works Foundation President. “The support of the South Dakota Humanities Council has been invaluable in allowing us to extend the reach of this important project.”

Founded in 1972 by the hard work of fellow South Dakotans, the South Dakota Humanities Council, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is the only cultural organization in the state whose sole mission is to deliver humanities programming to the people of South Dakota.

The book is a culmination of personal interviews held during 2023, led by Carrie Moser along with other Black Hills Works Foundation staff. In its pages, readers will meet people like Ordean, who grew up in a state institution in the 1940s and was overjoyed to finally move out and into the community at age 29. Readers will also meet Heather, a tireless advocate for her peers with disabilities; Zach, whose friendliness and curiosity are unmatched; and many more.

Kristina Roth, primary author on the book, said,

Through their stories, Journeys of Hope traces the progress that has been made toward expanded possibilities for people with disabilities. ”

performers, visual artists, beloved family members, and dear friends. Their unique contributions help make South Dakota the outstanding place it is.

Black Hills Works Foundation will mark the book’s publication with a public discussion panel on May 16, 2024 from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the Suzie Cappa Art Center on 722 Saint Joseph Street in Rapid City. The discussion panel will be led by Dr. Andrea Serna and will include

several individuals who are featured in the book. The event is open to all, but RSVPs are requested. Please register on Eventbrite or contact Kristina Roth at kroth@bhws.com or 605.718.7383.

Copies of the book will be available at Black Hills Works Foundation office at 514 Mount Rushmore Road. There is no cost to obtain a copy. It will also be available as a free PDF download at www.blackhillsworks.org after June 1, 2024.

Following the discussion panel, attendees are invited to stay for Bikes and Blooms: A Spring Open House at Suzie Cappa Art Center. Guests can meet the artists, purchase original artwork, and enjoy live music.

Black Hills Works Foundation 514 Mount Rushmore Road Rapid City, SD 57701

IN THE HILLS

760 RANCHESTER RD | RAPID CITY, SD

Welcome to your dream retreat! This stunning property built in 2023, sprawls across 5.95 acres of serene landscape, offering a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty with towering pine trees framing breathtaking views. Inside, discover 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, including a spacious primary bedroom suite with a luxurious ensuite bathroom and laundry facilities. Additional bedrooms provide ample space for guests, while a versatile fourth bedroom offers flexible usage options. The heart of the home lies in the meticulously designed kitchen with a large island, quartz countertops, and a massive pantry with additional refrigerator and open storage. Adjacent, the living room features a cozy fireplace and vaulted ceilings, ideal for unwinding or hosting gatherings. Step outside to your own outdoor oasis, complete with a pool and hot tub. With city utilities, this home offers both convenience and freedom, minutes away from Monument Hospital, downtown Rapid City, and I-90.

When choosing wall art, don’t be afraid to use a neutral palette - accentuate scale and texture.

Combining light-toned elements of natural woods, rattan and textiles creates an effortless, grounded appeal.

Ready for a little color? Rare Finds hand selects botanicals, dried & silk arrangements in a variety of colors.

Decor choices are unlimited with this classic black cabinet, glass double doors and brass accents.

Spend Your Life on the 18th Hole

Apple Springs Offers Mountain Home Living at its Finest

By: Michaela Feldmann

It’s time to hit the greens in Sturgis, South Dakota at a new development known as Apple Springs. Located about four miles west of Sturgis, the Boulder Canyon Golf Course offers homeowners mountain home living at its finest.

“It is a little bit higher end to what Sturgis offers,” says Chandler Kubas, owner and CEO of Top Shelf Construction. “The setting is pretty cool because it is in a canyon with a lot of rocky-looking hills, a ravine that the course follows and it’s kind of secluded. The other development is at least a mile or so away.”

It’s one of the things that drew Kubas and his team to start building here.

“We had a really good feeling about what they’re offering and what they’re going to offer with multi-family units and short-term rentals in there as well. We started out framing a couple of homes for contractors, but we just loved the area so much. So, we bought two lots which we’ve broken ground on, and plan to do more in the future once these are sold.”

What types of homes might you find in Apple Springs? “It’s really a lot of different ones. You’ll find homes that look like a log cabin to

those with modern styles. The HOA is really flexible in there which is a great change to the area, and it’s something that is drawing a lot of people to Apple Springs. They want flexibility with what they can build,” adds Kubas.

Kubas and his team are leaning into the cabin vibes, something he says is very popular for people in this area. “We really lean into those darker exterior colors,” says Kubas. “Then we put these nice wood beams in the front and back of the home, typically in the gables. For the interior windows, we typically do black-on-black windows. That’s just something we feel looks a little better with this vibe than the white windows you typically see. We also do a lot of painted fixtures and cabinets versus the woodgrain cabinets. That’s kind of the way the market is in the Black Hills.”

Kubas says Top Shelf’s first lot in Apple Springs is pushed up against the hill behind it and has gorgeous views of the golf course. It will be a zero-grade entry home with no steps designed to appeal to older clientele.

“We see a lot of older clients or retirees on golf courses. Their backyard is a golf course so they can basically walk on or drive their golf cart to the clubhouse, and it’s very convenient for the homeowners. Plus, it gives you those great secluded vibes while only being about six to seven minutes from anything in Sturgis like restaurants and grocery stores,” Kubas explains.

The second lot has a bit of elevation to it with a walk-out basement. “Like I mentioned before, the designs are very similar, with kind of that cabin feeling. We really love those types of trends for people in the area. Both just are the perfect location to step out and play a round of golf.”

Kubas says they plan to build both lots at the same time. Once those are either contracted or sold, they’ll purchase more lots.

“There’s a whole new phase of the golf course that opened up. One of our lots in there is located the furthest north of the golf course. So, we intend on buying more lots in there as we sell these.”

Kubas says there are a lot of things that draw homeowners to the Apple Springs development.

“Sturgis doesn’t have much to offer for homes and rentals except what’s on the outskirts of town, so the developer has a really great idea on what the market is. You have a lot of people that fly in to play a round of golf and it’s nice to have accommodations for them to stay.”

The development will also have a clubhouse with food available to keep homeowners connected to the community.

Just like his other developments, Kubas says it’s important to be that onestop-shop for everything customers could need including services in realty, mortgage and insurance.

“We offer everything in the Apple Springs development that we do in any other development that we are in,” says Kubas. “That includes our mortgage company and interest-rate incentives. Our main goal is and always will be about quality. We provide top-shelf quality and create personalized relationships with each of our customers.”

Chandler Kubas President & Founder

A leopard can’t change its spots

That’s not always true for moles.

Finding melanoma at an early stage is crucial.

Look for anything new, changing or unusual on both sun-exposed and sun-protected areas of the body. Melanomas commonly appear on the legs of women and the torso of men. Keep in mind melanomas can arise anywhere on the skin, even in areas where the sun doesn’t shine.

Monument Health Dermatology provides a complete range of dermatology services, including diagnosis and advanced treatment of skin cancer using techniques such as Mohs micrographic surgery.

When in doubt, have it checked out. Make an appointment at one of our locations.

Rapid City 4150 5th Street | 605-755-5340

Spearfish 550 East Colorado Blvd. | 605-717-8860

Gillette 620 W Four-J Court | 307-682-1204

monument.health/dermatology