BHL - April 2024

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.

Now Accepting New Patients

If you’re looking for a new dentist, call Dr. Juhlin today!

“I can’t recommend this place enough.”

- Brooklyn P.

team of writers

Molly Barari, Anna Burton, J.D., Dan Daly, Bailey Sadowsky, Michaela Feldmann

Account Executives

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

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

graphic designer

Melissa Chinn melissa.chinn@michelscom.com Editor

Margi Culhane margi@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

Confident, Cool & Cultured Meet Canada

“Look at me now!”

That’s a recurring thought for Canada Salter anytime she accomplishes something that people told her she couldn’t do.

“I learned this phrase early on in life due to my father’s unwavering love and support” Canada shares. “He was my greatest inspiration and encourager on the path to achieving my goals and dreams.”

Canada was born in Colorado Springs, CO and raised in Rifle, CO where she attended high school. As she neared closer to graduation, she remembers hearing her high school guidance counselor’s voice saying loud and clear, “If you don’t go to college, you won’t amount to anything in life.”

But Canada decided not to enroll in a traditional college, and instead, learned a trade. With a passion for hair and beauty, she entered cosmetology school at age 17. At the time, the program lasted about nine months and after she completed her training, Canada got her first job with Super Cuts.

Her love of making people feel good while providing them with outstanding service helped elevate her current position and by the time she was 20, she was promoted to area manager of five locations. By the time she was 21, she was again promoted to the district manager of 15 locations.

“I got my education on the job, and I loved it,” she says. “I learned how to operate a business, read a profit & loss statment, manage for growth, scale and so much more.”

After working in the beauty industry for six years, Canada decided she needed a change in her occupation and scenery. She made a bold move and opened an insurance agency in Las Vegas, NV. While working in the insurance business, Canada learned the foundations of

entrepreneurship and leadership, and it was a valuable experience for her. However, even after having two children, she still felt that her life’s path was not complete.

Wanting to feel closer to her roots, Canada decided to move again, this time to where her parents were born, the Black Hills. “Coming to Rapid City felt like the next right step in my journey.”

With her mind made up, she sold the insurance agency and moved to Rapid City, SD. And although she wasn’t exactly sure what she would do next, one day when she wanted to go out for a manicure and pedicure, an entrepreneurial thought came to her.

“I felt that it was hard to find a nail salon in the area,” Canada says. “I realized there was an opportunity for me to open a salon that was properly licensed with quality products and trained employees.”

“It’s

difficult to sit all day, so it appealed to me that the nail tech could stand and do nails at the bar, and customers could order their favorite beverage to unwind and relax.”

It was then that the idea of A Perfect 10 Nail & Beauty Bar was created. She considered what she would do to make her nail salon stand out against other places and the idea of adding a bar was born.

Over the next few months, Canada worked with city officials to explain the concept and obtain proper licenses to serve beer and wine. Within six months of opening the first A Perfect 10 location on Omaha

Street, the biggest complaint customers had was that people couldn’t get in due to the popularity.

Canada knew she needed to expand her beauty service. Nine months later, the Catron Blvd. location opened, followed by the Rushmore Crossing location a year after that. Then came three more locations in Sioux Falls, SD and one in Spearfish, SD. As the salons grew, Canada developed and created her own gel polish line, Lucid Polish Pro, which is used exclusively at A Perfect 10.

As A Perfect 10 gets prepared to celebrate its 13th anniversary this year, Canada has decided to sell the stores to a current employee to allow herself more time to pursue other goals—and to help someone else’s goal of entrepreneurship become a reality.

For Canada, her focus has switched to helping others see the potential in themselves and helping them to achieve their dreams. “That’s really important to me—to give someone else with an amazing work ethic the chance to build her own empire who may not have had the chance otherwise,” says Canada.

Being a mentor to others and a source of support for women is a position that Canada loves. The ability to share advice and reflect on what helped her succeed is something that Canada doesn’t take for granted and she knows it wouldn’t be possible without perseverance, determination and not being afraid to take a risk.

“I would tell my younger self that there are going to be many mistakes you make in life and along your journey, but the one thing I wish I would have known sooner is to take a deep breath and everything always works out,” Canada says. “It is hard not to panic in tough times and I now know to think about things and trust that it will all be okay.”

As Canada’s next chapter of her life, post-A Perfect 10 begins, Canada has continued working in the service industry as she has been running BIN 605 wine & tapas bar in Rapid City with her husband, Jeff since 2022.

“My husband and I are big wine drinkers. We like pairing charcuterie with our wine, and when we travel, we enjoy going to wine bars” Canada shares. “We thought, ‘Why doesn’t Rapid have something like this? If no one else is going to do it, we’ll do it.’”

As a determined person who has made her dreams a reality, Canada hints that the couple is planning to introduce a new restaurant concept sometime this summer in Rapid City.

Her new business venture has also allowed her and Jeff to look into traveling more as Canada describes herself as an explorer. She has traveled to Italy to enjoy the culture, the wine and the food. She has also traveled to Mexico, Hawaii and Costa Rica.

“Jeff and I like to travel at least a few times a year,” she says. “We’d love to explore wine country in California, so that’s on our list.”

“Look at me now!” Canada says. “I was not mentored, nor was I given any money. I saved every penny to make my dreams happen. I opened all seven of my nail salons with zero debt, and I did it all on my own.”

When Canada isn’t working or traveling, she and Jeff also enjoy boating, golfing, spending time in Deadwood, and spending time with their blended family. Jeff has two children, ages 24 and 22, and Canada also has two children, ages 21 and 19.

Canada’s children are her true inspiration for getting up each morning and doing what she does. “I want to provide them with a rçole model for how hard work, drive, perseverance and determination can help you obtain and exceed your goals,” she says.

Being a positive role model for her own children reminds Canada of her father and how he helped mold her into who she is today. And although he passed away 23 years ago from cancer, Canada can still feel his support.

“My dad was my number one fan, and he always taught me to fight hard for what you want and to never give

up” Canada shares. “I’ve lived with those words of advice since he passed, and it’s paid off.”

Canada feels that no one should allow just one person to paint a picture of success for them because everyone is different.

Canada also shares that besides hard work ethic and grit, you have to have the courage to pursue your life’s journey no matter what.

“For me, it took determination and resilience. I worked hard. I learned and adapted along the way” Canada shares. “Most importantly, I believed in myself and my vision. If someone tells me no, then I stop and remind myself of what I have achieved and what I have overcome and I know I can do anything.”

Canada’s four amazing kids-a blended family that genuinely likes one another

FIVE THINGS ABOUTCanada

one two three four five

My dad had me convinced he left me in the rain and I rusted when I was young because I am the only one in my family with red hair and freckles.

I live by the rule, that if you treat people how you want to be treated it seems to make life easier.

I have flossed my teeth every day since I was 13 years old.

When I opened my first nail bar, I had 5 different business concepts I was deciding on and not one of them was a nail salon.

Entrepreneurship for me is to provide opportunities to others that they may never have had.

5 SMART THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR TAX REFUND

According to IRS data, around three-quarters of American taxpayers receive a refund each year. In 2023, the average tax return was approximately $2, 750. 00 —and this year, the average refund check could be even higher.

That’s because, in order to match inflation, tax brackets have increased, more income now falls into lower brackets. A higher standard deduction and a number of new tax credits made available through the Inflation Reduction Act could also help many taxpayers receive a significant refund this year.

Since there’s a good chance you’ll be getting something back from Uncle Sam this year, you should have a plan for the best way to use that money. A Northwestern Mutual financial advisor can help you determine the best way to save and grow your money based on your goals and timeline. Below, we highlight five smart ways you can use your tax refund to set yourself up for a financially sound 2024.

1. TACKLE ANY HIGH-INTEREST DEBT

Carrying high-interest debt can make it more difficult for you to achieve your financial goals, especially in today’s current high-rate environment.

If you have high-interest debt, such as a balance on your credit cards, you might consider using your tax refund to pay it down. By reducing or eliminating the amount you pay in interest each month, you’re freeing up future cash in your budget.

Let’s say you have a $2,750 balance on a credit card charging a 22.95 percent annual percentage rate, which is the current average. If you only make the minimum payment of $78, it’d take you almost five years to pay off the debt and it would cost you more than $1,700 in interest.

But if you use your tax refund to pay the balance off all at once, you can avoid those interest charges—and free up an extra $78 in your budget each month. Putting just a few hundred dollars of your refund toward your balance can lead to big savings in both time and interest charges.

2. SAVE FOR A GOAL

Receiving a tax refund can be a great way to start saving for a bigger goal. For instance, maybe you’ve been itching to take a trip abroad, or have been thinking about upgrading from your starter home to your dream home. Or maybe you need to start building or boost your emergency fund so you’re prepared for any unexpected expenses. Whatever the goal, the first step is to set aside some money for it.

If you’re saving for emergencies or a short-term goal, meaning something you want to accomplish within a few months or years, consider putting your goal money into a high-yield savings account. This way, the money will be easy to access whenever you need it, and it can still earn interest. Likewise, consider making it separate from the bank where you hold your primary checking account, so you won’t be as tempted to transfer money from your savings to your checking anytime your budget gets tight.

If you’re saving for a long-term goal, such as a down payment on a home that you may want to buy in the next 10 years, consider using an investment account where your money can potentially grow faster with the help of the markets.

3. BOOST YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS

Even if you’re already putting money away in a 401(k) or IRA, it never hurts to give your nest egg a little more padding. Because the earlier you start saving, the more time you have to take advantage of compound growth.

If you have $20,000 in an IRA that grows at a hypothetical 6 percent a year, in 20 years you’ll have more than $66,000 in that account, even if you never add to it again. But if you bump that amount up to $22,750, you’ll have just over $75,000 in that same time frame. Putting your

tax refund to work today could mean an extra $9,000 in your pocket during retirement.

401(k) and IRA contribution limits are occasionally increased to account for inflation and in 2023, 401(k) contribution limits increased from $20,500 in 2022 to $22,500. IRA contribution limits also increased from $6,000 to $6,500. If you were younger than 50 in 2023, you can contribute up to $22,500 to a 401(k) and $6,500 to an IRA. If you are 50 or older, you can contribute up to $30,000 and $7,500, respectively.

4. TREAT YOURSELF TO A SPLURGE

Yes, you read that right. Setting aside a portion of your refund for a splurge is not only well-deserved, it can also help you stay on track with your other goals.

So whether that means a fancy dinner for your next date night or an outing with friends, your refund can be used for something fun without having to dip into your everyday budget. In fact, whenever you receive any sort of windfall—such as a bonus or an inheritance—consider setting a percentage aside for discretionary spending so that you get to enjoy some of that money now, in addition to using it for other goals.

5. CONSIDER OTHER FINANCIAL GOALS

If you’ve covered the bases above and still have money left from your refund check, ask yourself whether there are any other financial goals you’ve been shortchanging. Try to think about the goals that really matter to you, and consider dedicating at least a portion of your refund toward those goals.

These goals will, of course, vary from person to person. But common examples might include saving for your child’s future educational costs, starting a business or leaving behind a legacy that you can be proud of. If it’s important to you, your tax refund can help you start laying the groundwork toward one day making it a reality.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

A financial advisor can be a really helpful resource as you put together a monthly budget and financial plan. A Northwestern Mutual financial advisor can help you define what’s important to you and build a plan that helps you get what you want. It all starts with a good financial plan. Your monthly budget can then help keep your financial plan on track.

DEFINE YOUR PRIORITIES

Of course, how you decide to use your refund really depends on your situation and what you’re trying to achieve. You might have one particular goal you’re focused on, and that may be where your refund goes. Or you might put the money toward several goals, allowing yourself to enjoy something right now and save for something you’ll enjoy in the future.

Not sure how you should put your refund to work? Your financial advisor can help you understand how the different pieces of your financial plan all fit together, and guide you toward the best 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

MONDAYSATURDAY 10-7

SUNDAY 12-5

IN THE UPTOWN RAPID SHOPPING MALL

ACROSS FROM EDDIE BAUER

FB: @GIDDYUPANDGOBOUTIQUE

GIDDYUPANDGOBOUTIQUE.COM

A HIGHLIGHT IN THE HILLS

OFFERING AN UPSCALE DINING EXPERIENCE AND A MENU THAT’S TRULY INSPIRING.

Find your adventure at the Dahl Mountain Culture Festival in Rapid City May 3-7, 2024

Mountain culture evokes a sense of ruggedness, resilience, and connection to nature. It’s about embracing the challenges and rewards of living in mountainous terrain, where the landscape shapes not only the physical environment but also the values and beliefs of the people who inhabit it. Right here in the heart of the Black Hills, mountain culture fosters a close-knit community, where individuals support and rely on each other, drawing strength from their shared experiences in the face of nature’s formidable forces. There is one event that brings these ideals and the community together, the Dahl Mountain Culture Festival.

The first adventure of the Festival is the Dahl Mountain Photography Competition. Receiving over 200 submissions, 58 photos by 38 photographers were selected for an outstanding exhibition of mountain-inspired photography. This exhibit showcases the abundant local talent right here in the Black Hills. Local photographer and avid rock climber, Sarah Ponwith, expressed her excitement in being selected, “I love getting to share a moment in time amongst the dirt and grime and pure adrenaline we go through as climbers.” She said, “Being a part of this exhibit is so incredible as I get to bring my adventure [photography] to share with you.” The exhibit is on display at the Dahl Arts Center until April 20.

From modern-day adventure captured on film to ancient drawings etched on rock walls, the tradition of capturing

mountain culture through art spans generations. Our fascination with adrenaline-pumping experiences has endured through time. Now, we have the opportunity to experience it collectively. The Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour is coming to Rapid City on May 6 and 7. Featuring two distinct sets of films from diverse international locations and filmmakers, these film showings at the Elks Theatre promise to inspire and captivate audiences.

Top Winners

The Dahl Mountain Culture Festival offers more than just the Dahl Mountain Photography Competition and the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival. From May 3-7, the community can engage in a variety of outdoor activities. On Friday, May 3, Eliza Blue will perform live at the Dahl Arts Center, setting the stage for an enchanting concert. Then, on Saturday, the newly introduced Mountain Culture Expo in Main Street Square promises to uplift spirits. This expo brings together the essence of mountain living, featuring local outdoorfocused businesses, gear demonstrations, adventure activities, live music, and more. Explore the beauty of our backyard with sponsored activities like rock climbing, fishing, and mountain biking, all part of a diverse lineup of weekend adventures. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or an art connoisseur, the Dahl Mountain Culture Festival offers something magnetic for everyone.

Celebrate adventure, artistic expression, and the spirit of mountain culture at the Dahl Mountain Culture Festival in Rapid City from May 3-7. Find out what adventure awaits you at rapidcityartscouncil.org/banff.

Broad-Band Light

More comfortable treatments with less epidermal impact

Multiple filters used in one treatment to treat all skin concerns

Changes the expression of genes associated with the aging process to more closely resemble young skin

Treatments are faster with better results (BBL HERO)

Intense-Pulsed Light

Strong epidermal impact with increased risk of burning

One filter used per treatment to target only one skin concern

Does not have an effect on the genetic expression of the skin

Longer treatment times and more treatments may be needed to achieve desired results

Predicting the future and traveling through time may seem like something straight out of a science fiction novel, but there’s a small piece of that fantasy that’s becoming real. Although nobody can know exactly what’s in store, advancements in medical screenings are making it possible to gain insights into our future health. It’s no crystal ball, but by understanding our individual risk factors, we can take proactive steps to prevent or manage potential health issues, effectively giving us a glimpse into our future well-being. With the power of preventative care and early detection, we can take control of our health and shape a brighter, healthier future for ourselves.

Physicians and caregivers at Monument Health Cancer Care Institute are part of a multidisciplinary care team, working with patients throughout their cancer journey. Each day nearly 200 patients are seen at Monument Health’s Cancer Care Institute. The facility serves five states and accommodates more than 40,000 patient visits annually — a number that is, unfortunately, growing.

The rise in cancer isn’t unique to the region. In 2018, there were 18.1 million new cancer cases worldwide. By 2040, the number is expected to rise to 29.5 million.

Questions about treatment options, availability of clinical trials and what order to schedule appointments can overwhelm and exhaust patients already dealing with one of the most stressful events in their lives. With the completion of an expansion of Cancer Care Institute, Monument Health is able to take an integrated approach to care, where multidisciplinary conferences with several doctors and caregivers help patients navigate the specialized path ahead.

PREVENTION

As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. While not every instance of cancer is preventable, an estimated 30 to 50 percent can be prevented. Preventative steps can include changing lifestyle and behavior, eliminating exposure to carcinogens and making improvements to overall health such as maintaining a healthy weight, increasing physical activity, improving nutrition, eliminating tobacco use, avoiding sexually transmitted disease and reducing alcohol use and UV exposure.

One of the best prevention steps someone can take is to maintain a relationship with a primary care provider. They will give recommendations, based on your age and risk factors, if and when, you should get screened for certain cancers.

TOGETHER, EVERY STEP OF THE WAY

Cancer is not limited to any age group and if you have family history of cancer, your screening recommendations might be different, or if you have inherited cancer genes your screening recommendations might be different. If you have symptoms, always seek medical attention.

SPECIFIC SCREENINGS

There are specific screenings that physicians recommend for patients once they reach a particular age, or at certain intervals. “It’s essential to think of screening as a tool to catch problems early on when they are either in the precancerous stage — where management is much easier and management goal is cancer prevention — or at early stages of cancer, where the goal of treatment is to cure patients,” said Oncologist Bayan Al-Share, M.D. One example is mammograms, which are the best way to find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat and before it is large enough to cause symptoms. Other screenings include:

• A Pap smear to test for the human papillomavirus that can cause abnormal cells in the cervix that may turn into cancer. This test also can detect cervical cancer early, when the chances of being cured are very high.

• Colorectal cancer screenings that can locate precancerous polyps before they can turn into cancer. Screenings can find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best.

• Yearly lung cancer screenings with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) are recommended for individuals between 50 and 80 years old with a history of heavy smoking, who smoke now or have quit in the past 15 years.

• PSA screening can be performed with a simple blood test in men, and may detect prostate cancer. It’s not full-proof, but detecting certain types of prostate cancer — like those that are likely to spread — can be critical.

“Most of these recommendations are because there are clinical trials that have showed that these interventions – or screenings –lead to a longer than average lifespan compared to without these interventions for the target population,” said Oncologist AbdelGhani Azzouqa, M.D. “Patients should always discuss screenings with their primary care provider to assess risks and benefits.”

Dr. Al-Share agreed, reiterating, “What is more important than memorizing recommended ages is to ask your primary care

provider about screening recommendations for you. The health care team is here to help you live longer and live better and they will always be happy to discuss this topic with you.”

TREATMENT

Monument Health Cancer Care Institute combines the latest and greatest technology with time-tested treatments to provide the best possible options to cancer patients.

“If you found cancer on one of the screening tests, don’t be discouraged. This means that the test did the job we wanted it to do; find the cancer if it’s there,” said Dr. Al-Share. “We have a great team at the Cancer Care Institute to help patients with their fight against cancer. The team is excellent at supporting patients with their treatment, as well as the other related emotional and spiritual needs of patients and families.”

At the Cancer Care Institute, Monument Health has invested in the technology and infrastructure to allow multidisciplinary team-based care, where physicians and staff from multiple specialties can meet, review and plan the best possible care plan for patients.

“The process of getting patients with cancer the care that they need has undergone a lot of refinement. We have greater availability and patients can get in more quickly than ever before,” said Dr. Azzouqa. “More than just the clinical aspects of treatment, patients find that our caregivers are extremely kind. Most patients show an overwhelming amount of appreciation to everybody from the patient access specialists, medical and clinical assistants, to the physicians and nurses. Everyone is here because they believe in what they’re doing.”

SURVIVORSHIP

Cancer is a unique journey for everyone, and it doesn’t necessarily end when treatment is complete. All patients and survivors have to prioritize their own physical and emotional well-being.

If you’ve had cancer before, you’re at a higher risk of getting it again compared to someone who hasn’t. Taking care of your health is crucial. One way to do this is by following your doctor’s recommendations for checkups and tests after treatment. These can help detect any signs of new or recurring cancer early on, and as you’ve already learned, early detection improves the success rate of treatment.

It’s also important to take time to recover, heal mentally, and process your emotions after treatment. It’s normal to feel a mix

of relief, gratitude, and excitement, along with worry or sadness. Give yourself the space and time you need to work through these feelings.

Cancer survivors often have to navigate a range of issues, including treatment side effects, follow-up care, emotional and psychological impacts, financial and employment concerns and long-term health. Survivorship care plans, which outline the patient’s diagnosis, treatment and recommended follow-up care, can help survivors manage these challenges and improve their quality of life.

Ultimately, cancer survivorship is about living life to the fullest extent possible, even in the face of a cancer diagnosis. It’s about finding ways to thrive and maintain hope, despite the challenges and uncertainties that come with the disease.

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.

Monday - Saturday 9 PM PM

support events at Rapid City Public Library. Through your generous book donations, the Gently used books are welcome and can be dropped off at the front desk. Children, Fiction & Non-Fiction Books

Street

Who doesn’t want bright, dewy, soft skin?

Professional skincare treatments offer a multitude of benefits beyond the joy of relaxation. Trained estheticians assess your skin and customize treatments to fit your needs. Skin concerns may include: acne, dryness/oiliness, aging, dullness, hyperpigmentation, skin sensitives, pore size, uneven textures, and sun damage.

We use high quality products, and treatments that promote cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration at a deeper level. Our estheticians use machines to kill surface bacteria and drive serums, such as collagen, deep into the skin. As all of this sounds very clinical, it is important as it all aids in skin cell turnover. Which reveals a clearer, smoother complexion.

Our estheticians always offer personal skincare advice and recommend suitable products and regimes for use at home. We promote “Self-care Sundays”, taking time each Sunday morning to use: exfoliating scrubs, treatment masks, eye masks, lip scrubs/masks along with cooling rollers and globes. We love empowering everyone and giving you the tools you need to maintain healthy skincare habits between facial appointments.

Beneficial treatments include, customized facials, LED light therapy, microdermabrasion, hydroderm, dermaplaning, and chemical peels.

Friends of the Library: Lending a Supportive Hand

If the Rapid City Public Library had an official bestie, the Friends of the Library would be it. The group exists to provide support and funding to help the library excel.

With National Library Week coming up April 7-13, it’s the perfect opportunity to shine a light on how libraries serve our communities—and the vital role Friends of the Library plays in that equation.

Libraries are much more than a source for books. If you haven’t visited the Rapid City Public Library recently, you’ll find a 3D Makerspace; games and puzzles; community learning workshops; and access to digital reading and audio books. It’s also a great place to use computers or study quietly.

The variety of resources and opportunities the library provides is especially important to remember in today’s TikTok age.

“Libraries provide a sense of community and belonging for all who use them. Everyone in Friends of the Library shares a love for books, reading and learning. That’s why we put a lot of energy into volunteering for this organization,” says Lesa Koscielski, past president of FOL. “The more we can model reading as parents, grandparents and

friends, the more we can get younger people to see that reading is fun and exciting. Books are not all old and dusty. In fact, there are books so good that people are turning them into television shows.”

Maryanne Rohrer, FOL vice-president, agrees. “Anyone can come into the library and use the facilities and programming without paying a fee – and it’s important to have spaces like that in each community,” she says. “Also, there are people who don’t have access to books at home, only at the library or at school.”

The Rapid City Public Library also houses the Friends of the Library’s Little Book Shoppe—a store within the library that offers bargain deals on all kinds of books—from children’s books, to young adult and adult novels, to art and hobby books, to historical books and resource books, to books on animals, to rare finds. Things like DVDs, puzzles and journals are also available, depending on the donations people have brought in at any given time.

“The bookstore is our main fundraiser for the programs we support at the library,” says Cindy Larson, current FOL president. “When people donate books to the library, the library has the first choice to see if they want to add it to their collection. Everything else is sorted and potentially sold at our bookstore. The bookstore is open during the library’s regular hours, and it’s open to anyone, whether you have a library card or not. You purchase materials at the front desk.”

Friends of the Library always need donations, and they have regular donation days that they advertise on their Friends of the Rapid City Public Library Facebook page. Donations can also be made daily at the front desk of the library, or folks can also call ahead to the library, and someone will meet them at the garage door to collect materials. Books need to be in good condition, with no water damage. Magazines and older encyclopedia sets are not accepted.

The funds raised from the Little Book Shoppe are used to support the library’s Summer Reading Program; monthly lunch and learn programs with local authors, historians, hobbyists and musicians; staff appreciation initiatives, such as providing scholarships for those studying library science; and other hands-on learning programs. The FOL provided funds to purchase a beautiful fish tank within the bookstore, and they also donated $35,000 toward a new bookmobile for the library.

“The bookmobile will be vital for underserved areas, and for those who don’t have a way to get to the library,” says McGuigan.

The FOL was formed in Rapid City in 1977, and there are currently 25 active members. For those interested in volunteering, they can call the library at (605) 3946139 and leave a message for the group.

“I look forward to coming to the library to shelve books and tidy up the bookstore,” says FOL volunteer Alys Ratigan. “The friendships I’ve made in this group are very special. Plus, it feels good to be part of a group that serves the community. We take books to the jail, the free little libraries around town, to Habitat for Humanity to place in new homes, and to nursing homes.”

For National Library Week in April, the group looks forward to showing the library staff their appreciation.

“They are always friendly and willing to help out, and we look forward to celebrating them—and to celebrating our wonderful library,” says Larson.

“It’s a great place to discover something new to learn about,” adds Ellen McGuigan, FOL past vicepresident. “The library is a great place to come to relax and unwind.”

ECHOWORKS TO HOST FREE EARTH DAY COMMUNITY COLLECTION EVENT

In celebration of Earth Day 2024, EchoWorks will be hosting a free community collection event as part of the Rapid City Earth Day Expo at Western Dakota Technical College. The public is invited to bring in their old computers, cell phones, flat screen televisions, printers, and more.

EchoWorks, part of the Black Hills Works family, employs two people with disabilities, Blaze and Tyler, who enjoy meaningful days providing an important service for our community. Black Hills Works supports nearly 600 people with disabilities in the Rapid City area, helping them live, work, and play. EchoWorks is one of four social enterprises.

“We’re helping our environment and providing employment to two great guys. It’s a win-win,”

said Randy Sheppard, E-Recycling Supervisor for EchoWorks. “Since January 2020, thanks to their hard work and a supportive public, EchoWorks has diverted more than 551,000 pounds from our landfill.”

This free collection event is possible due to the generosity of Black Hills Energy, which provided a grant to cover the costs of a community collection event.

“The grant is helping us waive the recycling fees associated with some items – those larger electronics that EchoWorks has to pay for to be recycled, plus the shipping costs to take the e-waste to an out of state recycling facility,” said Randy. “We are so grateful to Black Hills Energy for making this free day possible for our customers.”

A key pillar of Black Hills Energy’s commitment to sustainability is social responsibility,” said Lynn Kendall, Community Affairs Manager for Black Hills Energy. “We recognize that by supporting EchoWorks, we are positively impacting the lives of others and the communities we serve. EchoWorks has kept tons, literally tons, of electronic waste out of our landfill. It’s also providing employment to people with disabilities. We’re proud to support these efforts, while also giving back to our neighbors in the Black Hills by providing a free recycling opportunity.”

Before heading to the collection event, the public is encouraged to review the list of acceptable and unacceptable electronics, at blackhillsworks.org/ echoworks. Generally, items like laptops, desktop computers, cell phones, flat screen televisions, printers, and the like are accepted, whereas batteries, e-cigarettes, toys, medical equipment, microwaves, refrigerators, and other household items, are not.

The public is encouraged to call ahead if there are questions about what is accepted and not accepted. You can reach EchoWorks with questions by calling 605-484-6708 or email rsheppard@bhws.com.

“We encourage everyone to stop by on April 20 to drop off their electronics and enjoy all the Earth Day festivities being hosted at Western Dakota Tech,” said Randy.

The Rapid City Earth Day Expo starts at 10 am on April 20, 2024. In addition to the free collection event at EchoWorks, we will host other vendors contribution to sustainability in our community. The Earth Day Expo will be held on the Western Dakota Technical College campus at 800 Mickelson Drive in Rapid City.

The Women Behind The Scenes of SD CEO West

The SD CEO West Women’s Business Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to empowering women and propelling economic development across South Dakota. We are committed to delivering comprehensive, affordable training, high-caliber programming, and free, confidential one-on-one business coaching services across the western and central regions of South Dakota.

in the successful execution of impactful and pertinent programming in a state where 99% of businesses are considered small, with approximately 43% being womenowned.

The Advisory Board believes in championing local economies and creating an environment that empowers women to succeed as entrepreneurs and secure a place at the decision-making table.

The strategic guidance and visionary direction provided by the SD CEO West Advisory Board play a critical role Introducing the esteemed visionaries comprising the SD CEO West Advisory Board Please help us welcome our newest Advisory Board members:

Claudine Bates NERC Compliance Program Manager Black Hills Energy, Rapid City

Carrie Gerlach Owner & CEO Black Hills Adventure Tours, Rapid City

Molly Brown Partner GenPro Energy Development, GenPro Energy Solutions, Piedmont

Kristie Martin Market President Dacotah Bank, Aberdeen

SD CEO West is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. While the programs at SD CEO West are designed to support women, our services are available to any aspiring entrepreneur and business owner. Training and counseling are available for men and women. SD CEO West is hosted by Black Hills State University.

These women are joined by our established Advisory Board members who, combined, have served for over 50+ years as volunteers for SD CEO West.

Sandy Burns

SD CEO West Advisory Board Chair, CEO Project Solutions, Rapid City

Nina Braun CPA, CPF, CEO Ketel Thorstenson, LLP, Rapid City

Michelle Loobey-Gertsch Director of Advancement Black Hills Works Foundation, Rapid City

Shauna Junek Director of Development and Planning Giving BHSU Alumni & Advancement, Spearfish Ex-Officio

Discover Upcoming Events

www.BHSU.edu/SDCEO/events

Kae McNeil Retired, US Bank Wealth Management, Aberdeen

Laura Prosser Professor School of Business Black Hills State University, Spearfish Ex-Officio

Discover coaching opportunities and programming

www.BHSU.edu/SDCEO or call (605) 642-6435

Unparalleled Living Experience

Nestled in the highly sought-after Pinedale area, this extraordinary Craftsman-style home stands as a masterpiece, perfectly situated on a sprawling 3.8-acre lot. Offering the best of both worlds –tranquility and convenience – with schools, shopping, and downtown just minutes away, it presents an unparalleled living experience.

Step inside to discover a thoughtfully designed main floor that seamlessly blends comfort and functionality. Five generously sized bedrooms await, each adorned with charming window seats and equipped with built-in desks to suit various needs. The spacious office area provides an ideal workspace, while the gourmet kitchen, boasting exquisite red fir cabinetry, a large center island, and a top-of-the-line Viking gas range, is complemented by a stunning Spanish-style fireplace and a unique entrance. Radiant heat floors span the entire first floor, providing primary heating, while a butler’s pantry adds a touch of luxury and convenience. Not to mention the inviting library/reading area, perfect for quiet relaxation.

The living room exudes warmth with its ten-foot ceilings, inviting oak hardwood floors, and a delightful

window seat. The main level offers three bathrooms, each a true retreat with double vanities, tiled walk-in showers, and a convenient half-bath for guests, emphasizing the abundant one-level living.

Venture downstairs to discover even more possibilities, with two additional flex spaces awaiting personalization, along with another well-appointed bathroom and a family room featuring a Murphy bed for added versatility.

The heated double-deep garage is a car enthusiast’s dream, accommodating up to four vehicles with ease. As you enter from the garage, a spacious mudroom awaits, complete with lockers and a convenient bench area/ countertop for added functionality.

Beyond the interior, the allure of this property extends to the secluded outdoor haven for entertainment, including a huge outdoor gas fireplace. Emphasizing private, out-of-town living while still enjoying the convenience of city amenities.

A generously sized hot tub graces the large entertaining area, providing the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. The large 3.81 acre treed lot offers a large enclosed garden area with raised beds and room for additional parking.

This home transcends mere residence; it’s an unparalleled retreat that seamlessly blends luxury, functionality, and serenity. Welcome to a lifestyle where every detail is meticulously crafted to enhance your everyday living experience.

Blackburn Foundation Repair makes stressful home repairs super easy with premium level care and expert level service.

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DESIGNS THAT ELEVATE

Give your favorite space a look of luxury with brilliant Cambria quartz surfaces.

Available in multiple designs at Kitchen Tune-Up. Scan the QR code to explore Cambria’s Inspiration Gallery and find your perfect style.

This unique sideboard frames the wall above it. Adding artwork, mirror, lighting makes this space an ideal viewing gallery, reflecting your own personal style.

ON TREND

Mixing elements of wood and glass has always been a winning combination, but add a raw edge mango wood base and this coffee table becomes the stunning focal point.

Organic colors and textures bring warmth and beauty to any space. Woven baskets add a sense of nature, harmony and balance within a room.

Bringing a Heightened Sense of Luxury

Luxury at its finest. That’s what Top Shelf Construction offers on the west side of Spearfish, South Dakota. With incredible views and top quality craftmanship, you’re sure to feel the grandeur of it all.

“The views here are just spectacular and there’s really nothing like it,” says Chandler Kubas, owner and CEO of Top Shelf Construction. “Wild Turkey Estates, which borders us, started this development here and they have a lot of the same incredible views. You can see Crow Peak from one side and on the other side you can see the entire Spearfish Valley. They have beautiful sunsets and sunrises, and you can see the city lights. They’re just really cool settings.”

Kubas says you’ll find tons of wildlife in this area as well as a huge 30-foot-deep ravine. With luxury views, comes luxury craftmanship.

“When you’re building luxury homes, there’s a little bit more attention to detail. You often have higher end products like in the cabinets, countertops and flooring. In some of the homes, we will do a knockdown texture on the walls as well. That’s something we found people really enjoy.”

And these homes in the 21-lot subdivision, six of which are Top Shelf Construction lots, are no exception.

“These are million-dollar homes,” says Kubas. “The second home that we built in the fall of 2023 went under contract for $1.175 million. So, you’re getting top quality from our team. We have nine-foot ceilings throughout the home and the main area is vaulted as well. That peak is around 16-feet tall. So very expensive ceilings.”

Luxury continues to the custom high-end cabinets, tile backsplashes and a plethora of large windows. Full, wet bars can be found in the basements of the homes as well as epoxy garage floors that are heated.

“That’s a big plus for a lot of people moving to this area. We get a lot of people that are coming from California,” adds Kubas.

To take in the incredible views, these homes feature decks on three sides. Keeping with the outdoorsy feel, Top Shelf’s homes bring a cabin vibe to them with rustic steel and blacks and grays. Incorporating the beautiful woodsy scenery of this area, inside the home is also important to Top Shelf.

“We use a pine that is directly from the Spearfish area,” says Kubas. “It’s the Beetle Wood Pine. So, it looks like standard pine but when the beetles kill these trees, it turns the wood blue. We put a clear

sealer on it to bring that blue effect out of the wood and we lace the ceilings in the main area with it.”

And everyone wants to get those beautiful views, including Kubas himself.

“One of the lots going up right now is going to be my personal home on two acres. My previous 20-acre house was on the outskirts of town, and I wanted something a little further out that wasn’t so much maintenance. We wanted to make it our home and be part of this development to enjoy these incredible views for a couple years before selling it.”

Of course, it’s not just luxury homes that Top Shelf constructs. You’ll find a wide range of prices because there’s a wide range of people.

“Everyone is looking for something a little bit different when it comes to price points,” says Kubas. “We feel our role as a construction company is to build in those wide ranges. When we do that, not only do the number of customers grow, but so does our company. In the Spearfish area you’ll find everything from super high-end to homeowners looking to spend only $300,000 to $400,000. But these luxury homes really help the market stand out in Spearfish.”

And like with all their developments, Top Shelf Construction brings you wrap around service from realty, mortgage and insurance.

“When you get into the luxury homes most of the financing, if they’re not paying cash, is jumbo financing. We do offer jumbo financing for all of our clients, and we offer the same interest rate buy down on the jumbo financing as the standard financing as well,” explains Kubas.

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It’s not just luxury homes that Top Shelf constructs. You’ll find a wide range of prices because there’s a wide range of people.

While jumbo financing options differ from state to state, Kubas and his team are there to walk you through the process.

“If we get customers that come to us looking to buy a house, we have a list of contacts, along with our mortgage company, that can walk them through the process. They don’t have to go out online and shop anywhere. We are a one stop shop. We can take care of the mortgage, the insurance, and get them all preapproved upfront so they know what they can afford. It takes the guesswork out of it all.”

Kubas says giving customers that peace of mind, is what it’s all about.

“It makes our job easier and puts them at ease. That’s our goal for any home. We just want to make sure the customer is as happy as they can be.”

How to create an Insta-worthy outdoor living space

(BPT) Social media has changed the ways people engage with content and seek inspiration. Thanks to ever-evolving technology and algorithms, you have the ability to find new ideas instantly.

Need a new recipe? Find and follow a chef or home cook on TikTok or Instagram. In a reading rut? Explore reviewers who can share book recommendations for your next read. You can even discover new ways to transform your yard this spring on your social media feeds.

It may seem odd to consider that people use the digital landscape to help them revamp their outdoor living space, but according to a new survey, 40% of Americans do just that.

Are you ready to create an Insta-worthy outdoor space? Check out these three tips to inspire your yard renovation.

Return to timeless appeal

Trends may come and go, but you can’t beat the timeless appeal of a healthy landscape. According to the survey, 89% of Americans emphasize the pivotal role of a healthy lawn in that landscape. Without this foundation, you can’t build an attractive outdoor space.

Focusing on the basics is the key to outdoor charm. Over half of Americans say flowers are the quintessential element for creating a visually pleasing outdoor space, closely followed by healthy plants and shrubbery.

Talk to the pros when challenges arise

While more Americans are interested in creating beautiful, healthy outdoor spaces, many are not versed in the challenges of landscape upkeep. For example, Americans are most stumped by how to get rid of weeds, followed by a quest for the perfect plant and the proper lawn care schedule.

If you find yourself overwhelmed, it’s best to consult with an expert, to help you beautify your outdoor spaces without guesswork.

Spend more time outdoors

Longing for beautiful, maintained outdoor spaces, over half of Americans are willing to invest more time outdoors. Not sure what you’re looking for?

Take stock of your yard. Scan your greenery and consider incorporating plants and trees that complement your home’s size. You may want to consider installing low maintenance flower beds or a small koi pond. For twostory homes, trees and tall bushes are a good choice, while one-story homes can focus on keeping plants trimmed and compact for a positive visual appeal.

Imagine where you’d like to add furniture. Incorporating elements like Adirondack chairs, small outdoor bed swings or teak wood outdoor sectionals can create a refreshing and relaxing feel.

Assess your lawn. As the canvas of your outdoor space, a dreamy, green lawn demands meticulous care. Neglecting lawn maintenance can lead to unsightly issues, including brown patches, rampant weeds and insect damage. To ensure your lawn remains a dreamy oasis, engaging with a professional service can be invaluable in maintaining its health and saving valuable time.

With expert counsel and a proper maintenance routine, homeowners can achieve an outdoor space they love that’s worthy of showing off on their social media feeds. To learn more and find pros that can help maintain your outdoor living space, visit your local lawn and garden expert.

SAVE THE DATE

Saturday, June 1, 2024

Cancer Care Institute | 353 Fairmont Blvd., Rapid City

We invite all cancer survivors in the community, including those who have been recently diagnosed with cancer, to join us on this day of celebration, inspiration and support. There will be door prizes, speakers, education, resource booths and brunch will be served.

FEATURED SPEAKER

Jack Caudill, Cancer Survivor

Tickets are $5 with proceeds going towards future cancer education events. For more information, visit monument.health/cancersurvivorship or scan the QR code.