Black Hills Parent Fall 2021

BHPARENT FALL 2021

LOCAL LIFE

NO EXCUSES Records won’t shatter themselves — just ask Taylor Graveman

YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR p. 18

PUTTIN’ ON THE FITZ p. 22

2021 NURSES OF EXCELLENCE p. 29

FINDING WHAT STICKS p. 42

Give your child the freedom to dream with CollegeAccess 529 No gift is greater than an education.

To learn how to start saving today visit www.collegeaccess529.com.

Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, and charges and expenses of the CollegeAccess 529 plan before investing.

This and other important information is in the Plan Disclosure Statement, available at www.CollegeAccess529.com. Read the Plan Disclosure Statement carefully before investing.

Before investing, you should consider whether your state of residency, or your intended beneficiary’s state of residency, offers a state tax deduction or any other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors that are only available for investments in that state’s 529 savings program.

The CollegeAccess 529 Plan is issued by the South Dakota Higher Education Savings Trust. The Program Manager and Underwriter for the CollegeAccess 529 Plan is VP Distributors, LLC, One Financial Plaza, Hartford, CT 06103, 800-243-4361.

Certain of the investment management firms that manage underlying mutual funds in the Program, including Virtus Investment Advisers, Inc., are affiliated with the Program Manager.

Only South Dakota residents and Account Owners who designate a South Dakota resident as Beneficiary can invest directly in the CollegeAccess 529 Plan. Certain Portfolios are not available to those who invest directly. Residents of states other than South Dakota can invest in the CollegeAccess 529 Plan only through a financial professional. Additional fees apply for investments made through a financial professional. Please see the Plan Disclosure Statement for details. State taxes may apply for residents of states other than South Dakota.

Notice: CollegeAccess 529 Plan accounts are not insured by any state, and neither the principal deposited nor any investment return is guaranteed by any state.

URGENT: Talk to your kids about VAPE!

Vaping causes irreversible brain damage to teens’ developing brains.

One in 20 middle schoolers and 1 in 5 high schoolers regularly vape. It’s highly addictive, and numbers are rapidly increasing. The good news is, most young people want to quit.

New data* shows that 60% of young people (15-24) want to quit vaping.

We know quitting is hard and often takes multiple attempts. The SD QuitLine offers proven techniques, tools, and tips you can use to help keep them on track so their quit will stick.

The South Dakota QuitLine has helped thousands of people quit. We can help South Dakotans 13+ with FREE coaching & medication. Call the QuitLine today!

Your SUPPORT can make a HUGE difference in the health of your kids. *Truth Initiative Survey, January 2021

A PUBLIC HEALTH MESSAGE FROM THE SOUTH DAKOTA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

1.866.SD-QUITS SDQuitLine.com

THANK YOU TO ALL THE EXCEPTIONAL NURSES IN OUR COMMUNITIES

Some of life’s biggest moments are spent with a nurse.

Thank you for all you do to support the patients in our communities.

Being a great place to work is a strategic priority at Monument Health, and it starts with heart.

Our vision is to be one team, to listen, to be inclusive, and to show we care.

To do the right thing. Every time.

Our caregivers and physicians are committed to delivering great patient care and optimal outcomes.

CONTENTS

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14 Kids all over the Black Hills are headed back to school. With school comes extracurricular activities like sports, music, liberal arts, and after school jobs. Fall might be when we settle back into a routine, but that doesn’t mean day-to-day life has to be ordinary. We rounded up kids, parents, and nurses around the Black Hills who are breaking the mold in hopes they’ll inspire you and your family to think bigger, be bolder, and find your passion.

BHPARENT BH PARENT Publisher, Owner Rick DenHerder 605.343.7684 ext. 203 For Advertising Information info@blackhillsparent.com Creative Director John Edwards Senior Designer Chris Valencia Designer Sydnee Dormann Communications Coordinator Meghan Rose Senior Editor Ashley Johnson Photographer Jesse Brown Nelson Digital Director John Eining Social Media Manager Jenna Johnson Distribution Manager Avery Thomas Distribution Richard Alley Contributors Katie Wiederholt Black Hills Parent. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without the expressed consent of the publisher is prohibited.

The information included in this publication is believed to be accurate at the time of publishing. Additional advertiser information and articles are available online at blackhillsparent.com. Black Hills Parent magazine is a free, quarterly publication distributed throughout Black Hills area communities—from Rapid City to Spearfish, Deadwood to Hill City, Custer to Hot Springs, and every place in between, including: schools, medical and dental waiting areas, childcare facilities, specialty retailers, and other key locations in this area. Get an exclusive look at Black Hills Parent through our e-letter at blackhillsparent.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for updates.

©

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BUZZ PAGES

08 Small Acts Make a Big Impact A new school year can be hard, but focusing on the positive can help. Check out our mini missions to start the year on a good foot.

09 Brush Up on Parking Safely Almost 20% of car accidents happen in parking lots. If you have a new driver in the family, share our tips for keeping them safe in their school parking lot.

10 Fall Family Recipe The balance of spice and fruit in banana bread make it the perfect recipe to transition from summer to fall. The best part? Kids of all ages can help make it!

AMAZING KIDS

12 Bodhi Linde Bodhi wows the crowds with his guitar playing, but he’s also a dedicated cyclist.

One thing’s for sure, he’ll never turn down the chance to try something new!

22 14 Taylor Graveman She holds more titles and records than some athletes twice her age, but Taylor only has one person to impress: herself.

18 Avery Dahl From preprinted forms to a professional website, Avery’s babysitting business sets the bar high for young entrepreneurs.

INSPIRE THE FUTURE

22 Field of Dreams Jordan is a local father and architect who helped renovate a Rapid City icon.

The key to his success? Baseball.

26 Capturing the Memories In honor of the original Floyd Fitzgerald Stadium, we dug up the history of the field and Post 22 baseball.

29 Nurses of Excellence Nurses help us live our best life from the day we’re born and play a huge role in our communities. Learn more about our seven honorees and help us celebrate this year’s Nurses of Excellence.

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38

38 Maintaining Family Harmony How do we let our kids try new things without getting burnt out? Custer mom Katie Wiederholt asked a local expert for tips and tricks to help kids stay balanced.

51 Column: STEAM Taking a family field trip can be both educational and fun! We rounded up some of the best spots in the Black Hills you should explore.

42 Dream Big and Make a Plan No matter their age, kids have dreams about the future. Help them find their passion and find the path to pursue it.

53 Column: Education Getting kids to do homework can be a battle, but did you know exercise can help? Pump up their grades with our tips.

EVERY ISSUE

56 Black Hills Cuties Black Hills parents are always happy to share photos showing off their little ones’ personalities. Proudly supported

by Dakota Dental 4 Kids.

44 Column: Making an Impact The Rapid City Youth Institute teaches kids skills in creative industries like film and publishing, but more importantly, it provides a creative outlet for our youth.

47 Column: Finance College can be expensive, but having a plan can make it easier to afford. We rounded up resources to get you started.

49 Column: Wellness Dr. Heather Spain shares the benefits of extracurricular activities and tips to make sure your kids don’t get burnt out.

60 Black Hills Calendar Fall means pumpkins, festivals, and kicking off the holidays. Looking to get out of the house? Check out these family-friendly events!

 Competitive Rates  Downpayment Assistance  Closing-Cost Assistance …FOR SOUTH DAKOTA HOMEBUYERS!

KNOW AN AMAZING KID OR TWO?

LET’S HEAR ABOUT ‘EM!

Share your amazing kid with us to get featured in the publication or online!

EDITORIAL@BLACKHILLSPARENT.COM

A Clean Home

is a happy home Your home plays a major role in your happiness, it’s where your heart is.

You spend a lot of time there, so make it a sanctuary that’s always ready for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

1. Clear the Clutter.

One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to improve the look of your home is to clean out your junk drawer, empty storage bins, and clear shelves.

2. Set the Stage.

Once your living room is clutter-free, breathe life into your space by incorporating plants, making subtle updates, and maintaining your clean throughout the week.

3. Make a Routine.

Cleaning is one of the most common household chores homeowners admit to putting off. With pre-scheduled, regular cleanings from Merry Maids, you’ll never again have to worry about spending a beautiful Saturday indoors scrubbing pots and pans.

Contact your local Merry Maids® today!

www.merrymaids.com | 605-718-9064 1141 Deadwood Ave., Suite 4 Rapid City, SD 57702 Professional • Bonded/Insured • Guaranteed Quality

New customers only. Not valid with other offers. Valid only at this location.

Cash value of 1/1000 of 1 cent. © 2020 Merry Maids L.P.

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SAVE $100

$20 off each of your first 5 cleanings when you mention this ad.

BHP Online Preview The weather might be getting cooler, but fall is still a great time to get out and explore the Black Hills! Come see us for great fall recipes, crafts, and the best places in the hills to see the leaves change colors!

Did your kids make the move from elementary school to middle school this year?

We asked a Pediatrician in Spearfish how to make the transition easier.

STEAM2 stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math, and Medicine.

Come see us to learn more about it and how Black Hills schools are implementing the program.

When the school year starts we tend to focus only on our kids. But don’t forget, parents need to recharge, too! Check out our tips to make sure you’re getting enough rest.

LET’S GET SOCIAL

@blackhillsparent

@bhparent

@bhparentmag

Live life local, together.

We’re your resource for everything local, from parenting tips and tricks to fall fun and expert insights.

Connect with us online to stay up-todate with the latest and greatest in the beautiful Black Hills!

BHPARENT 7

BUZZ HELPING OTHERS

MINI MISSIONS As our families settle into the new school year, it’s a great time to teach our kids — and remind ourselves as parents — the power of helping those around us.

Studies show that doing something nice for someone else helps build confidence, reduces stress, and promotes positive behavior in kids and teens.

A great way to instill the habit of positive behavior with your kids is to embark on mini missions as a family. Giving kids small assignments for their day helps them get back into the swing of social interaction. Not only that, asking how it went is a great way for parents to connect with kids after school or over dinner.

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Here are a few mini mission ideas to get you started: • Send • Send a note of gratitude to a friend or family member • Pay a stranger a compliment • Return shopping carts at the grocery store • Hand out sticky notes with positive messages written on them • Make thank you cards for local police officers, firefighters, or other public servants • Pick up litter at the park or while on a walk in your neighborhood • Set an alarm on your phone to stop and say positive affirmations to yourself

PARKING SAFETY BUZZ

As we get back into the school year, many teens are driving themselves to school for the first time.

There are plenty of stressors for parents that come with a new driver in the family, but did you know that almost 20% of car accidents happen in parking lots? Parking lots near schools are even more hazardous due to the number of drivers and pedestrians congregating at similar times, such as at the beginning and end of the school day.

STAY IN THE LANES

DON'T DRIVE DISTRACTED

DRIVE SLOWLY

PARK FURTHER AWAY

Drive between rows of parking spots. Don’t cut across the lanes, even when it looks clear.

Slow down and use your turn signals when pulling into a parking spot.

USE YOUR MIRRORS

Always check your mirrors when backing out or have a friend or sibling stand outside to look for other cars or pedestrians.

LOOK OVER YOUR SHOULDER Don't rely solely on your car's automation to warn you of danger.

Buckle your seat belt and adjust mirrors and seats before putting your car into gear.

There's less traffic further from the main building, which can make it easier to navigate safely.

GO SLOW!

Follow the speed limit.

Most parking lot speed limits are 5 or 10 mph.

GET TO SCHOOL EARLY The earlier you get to school the calmer the parking lot will be.

BHPARENT 9

BUZZ RECIPE

Our Favorite (somewhat healthy) Banana Bread Recipe Ingredients:

3 large very ripe bananas 2 large eggs 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour 1/3 cup applesauce or oil 1/2 cup pure maple syrup 1/4 cup milk of choice or water 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Equipment:

9x5 in. loaf pan large bowl whisk or fork hand mixer spatula

Optional add-ins:

¾ cup chocolate chips ½ cup walnuts ¼ cup flax meal

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Steps:

Ways kids can help

Time to add in our dry ingredients. Add the baking soda, vanilla, salt and cinnamon, and mix to blend.

Then switch to a big spoon and stir in the flour, until just combined. If you're adding in chocolate chips or walnuts gently fold them in now.

4-5 years old: Have them stir the batter or pour the dry ingredients in while you stir. They can also help grease the pan or put in paper liners

Preheat your oven to 325F and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Grab a large bowl and beat the oil and honey together with a hand mixer. Add the eggs and beat well, then whisk in the mashed bananas and milk.

Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and sprinkle lightly with cinnamon. Want a pretty swirl?

Run the tip of a knife across the batter in a zig-zag pattern.

Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.

Now its time to enjoy! Remove the bread from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing.

1-3 years old: Let your kids smash the bananas.

It’s a bit messy, but they’ll love this squishy sensory activity (maybe add in an extra banana, just in case)

6-7 years old: Help them measure ingredients and put them in the proper bowl 8-9 years old: Show them how to use a hand mixer to make the batter 10 years and older: All tasks associated with baking are fair game. Just be sure to supervise until you’re sure they’re safe. Besides, baking is more fun as a family!

Baby teeth to braces, infants through the teen years, we believe dentistry for kids is more than just bright, healthy smiles; it's also about making the trip to the dentist a calm, pleasant experience at every age.

605-939-7992 | dakotadental4kids.com 5509 Bendt Drive, Rapid City | Kids of all ages!

ARE YOU A FAMILY CHILD CARE PROVIDER WANTING HELP PAYING FOR NUTRITIOUS MEALS?

JOIN YFS' FAMILY CHILD CAR NUTRITION PROGRAM !

This program provides financial reimbursements for serving nutritious meals and snac s to children, ages 12 and younger.

Any registered family or licensed group family child care provider can participate at no cost !

YFS is an equal opportunity provider.

PROGRAM BENEFITS

(605) 341-7206 fcc@youthandfamilyservices.org

FREE financial reimbursements for meals (on average, providers are reimbursed $400-$1,000/month).

FREE trainings and workshops to help you meet registration or licensing requirements

FREE access to nutrition books and activities

BHPARENT 11

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GOAL-GETTER AMAZING KIDS

MILES&MUSIC From setting bike records to performing at venues throughout the Black Hills, Bodhi Linde proves that any goal is attainable — even for a 12-year-old. words Avery Thomas

FEATS & FAILURES

He may be young, but the key factors to Bodhi’s success have nothing to do with age: perseverance, goal-setting, and support are obtainable for anyone.

In March 2020, Bodhi celebrated riding his bike to school for 1,000 days in a row. He first made the 2.1 mile trek to Grandview Elementary School more than six years ago — and hasn’t stopped since.

“The first day of school in kindergarten turned into September, and September turned into Christmas, then Christmas turned into the beginning of the next year,” laughs Dan Linde, Bodhi’s dad.

“My dad was a huge biker, he did a lot of triathlons, and he was a bike mechanic,” Bodhi explains. When Bodhi received his first bike for Christmas, his love for bicycling took off. Bodhi has also tried unicycling, thanks to an introductory class at the YMCA. His favorite bike, though, is his Trek 920 which Trek gave him for biking 1,000 days to school.

He is also the youngest person to complete the Dakota Five-O, a 50 mile bike race held in Spearfish — an impressive feat for then 9-year-old Bodhi.

The now 12-year-old credits his dad for keeping him motivated: “A lot of times it just involves goal setting, and support from my dad really helps me on days when it feels hard to persevere,” Bodhi says.

While goal-setting has its place, Dan points out the importance of time management. He says, “create an atmosphere where you’re busy, you’re doing things.” Dan also tries to encourage Bodhi to have a healthy mindset towards failure. “Failure is just fine. It’s good to do stuff you’re not good at,” he says.

TURNING TO MUSIC

Since reaching the 1,000 day mark, Bodhi has devoted more of his time to other interests, such as music.

A music enthusiast from an early age, Bodhi learned to

photos Jesse Brown Nelson

play the mandolin and banjo. Before long, he started learning how to play guitar, too. In the beginning, Bodhi and his dad were just spectators at several bluegrass gigs in the Black Hills.

“I went to a bluegrass meetup and they played a song that wasn’t in the key of G, which is basically the only key that a banjo can play. That’s why I asked to borrow my dad’s guitar, and then I was hooked,” Bodhi says.

Dan says experimentation is key: “We bought every musical instrument we could find and said, ‘here.’ And then finally one stuck.”

Bodhi loves to play jazz and the blues, and he even writes some of his own songs. In the past year, Bodhi has performed at local venues such as Main Street Square, The Beacon, and Loud American Roadhouse, and he plans to continue performing as he grows older.

PURSUING NEW GOALS

In addition to music, Bodhi also excels at math and reading. He was the top scoring sixth grader in math in the state and had the highest Mathcounts score at South Middle School. Although he hopes to pursue a career in music, a stint in college is also a definite possibility for the future.

The most important thing, Dan says, is to understand that sometimes goals change. “I think you have to be malleable as a parent. Sometimes people get wrapped up in pursuing one certain path.”

As for short-term goals, Bodhi hopes to keep riding his bike to school until the end of middle school. With his penchant for music, a trip to Nashville is also on his bucket list. And who knows — if it involves an amazing kid like Bodhi Linde, anything is possible.

BHPARENT 13

Prove it to Yourself Taylor Graveman holds an impressive collection of championships, national rankings, and world records.

But at the end of the day what’s most important to her is showing up and working hard.

words Ashley Johnson photos Jesse Brown Nelson

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STRENGTH AMAZING KIDS

“WHEN PEOPLE SAY I CAN’T WRESTLE BECAUSE I’M A GIRL, I JUST PUT MY HEAD DOWN AND WORK HARD. WHEN I’M IN THE WRESTLING ROOM, THAT’S WHAT MOTIVATES ME TO GO HARDER; TO PROVE TO ALL THE PEOPLE WHO DON’T BELIEVE IN ME THAT I CAN DO IT.”

T

aylor has more accolades going into her junior year than many high school athletes will attain in their entire career. She recently won a wrestling state championship, placed sixth at nationals, and holds four world records in powerlifting.

She’s been incredibly successful, but it hasn’t been an easy road.

“At first my dad was worried about me wrestling because there weren’t any weight classes for girls,

but my mom believed in me so they let me go to a couple practices,” she says. “My dad and my brother have been helping me. My brother is my wrestling partner and my dad always helps me work on things I need to improve on. They’re always there when I need them, and they’re my biggest supporters.”

While she competes in powerlifting too, Taylor prefers wrestling over lifting. “Wrestling pushes your body to a limit that

BHPARENT 15

“When people say I can’t wrestle because I’m a girl, I just put my head down and work hard.

When I’m in the wrestling room, that’s what motivates me to go harder; to prove to all the people who don’t believe in me that I can do it.”

Taylor added state champion and All-American to her list of wrestling achievements this year.

I feel like no other sport does,” she says. “It brings out your true colors and if you put in the work — or didn’t — it’s going to show.” She has plans to compete in powerlifting in the future, but her primary goal is to continue improving as a wrestler.

Paving the Way

Taylor has done a lot to grow the sport of girls wrestling in South Dakota, but recognizes that she’s only part of the story. Her role model, Ronna Heaton, was the first female wrestler to qualify for the South Dakota state tournament. A year later she also became the first female wrestler to place at state when she took fourth in her weight class.

“I look up to her because she was able to do what people tell me I can’t do,” Taylor says.

“Because of her, I know it’s possible. So I just keep my head down and keep working hard because I know there’s someone who’s done it, and I’m going to be the next generation.”

Being a role model for girls coming up in the sport is something Taylor is proud of, but she hopes it doesn’t end with her: “I’m super excited and proud 16

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of being able to help boost the growth of the sport, but also show the next generation of girls that they can do something great. But also they can be the pioneers for the next girls, and them for the next girls, and hopefully it just keeps going.” Her hope is that girls wrestling grows in South Dakota to the point that our state is at the same level as the rest of the country.

Just Getting Started

Looking to the future, Taylor wants to continue wrestling at the collegiate level. “I’ve had a couple of colleges talk to me, which is exciting. I still have two years left in high school, so I have some time. But I want to keep going, and one day I want to be on the Olympic team,” she says.

For others who would follow in her footsteps, Taylor has just one piece of advice: “It doesn’t matter what other people think of you or what you’re doing. You shouldn’t be doing your sport or activity or whatever it is you want to do for anyone else. Do it for yourself. I don’t go out and wrestle or place high to make anyone else feel good. I know I put in all the hard work to get there, not someone else, and that’s what makes me feel good.”

STRENGTH AMAZING KIDS

BEEF.

BEST. SCHOOL. LUNCH. EVER!

Start your child’s school year off on the right foot. Contact us today!

It’s back-to-school time! Use these simple, nutritious, tasty recipes to make sure your kids bring their favorites to school every day.

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BHPARENT 17

First, Black Hills Parent. Next, the world! Avery’s just getting started, but who’s to say the next magazine we see her in won’t be Entrepreneur? The sky’s the limit for this Spearfish tween!

words Ashley Johnson photos Jesse Brown Nelson

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ENTREPRENEUR AMAZING KIDS

Not Your Average Babysitter Many of us look after other kids growing up, whether it’s younger siblings or for other families. It’s a great way to learn life skills — not to mention earning a little cash.

Avery Dahl from Spearfish is taking babysitting to the next level. While most kids find jobs solely by word of mouth, Avery is actively building her own babysitting business model. She has a stack of resumes ready to hand out and pre-made forms for parents to fill out if they’re interested in hiring her. Avery has even been working on her own logo and a website so local parents can easily find her.

“I want to start saving for college and family trips, so I started my own business,” she says. “It’s been a lot of work, but also a lot of fun.”

SAFETY FIRST

It all began a few years ago when Avery started babysitting her younger sister, Emma. Soon she was babysitting for other families and quickly realized she enjoyed doing it.

“I like hanging around kids. They’re fun, and I feel like I have more energy around them,” she says. Avery signed up for a babysitting class and got her CPR and first aid certification.

The certifications aren’t required, but she wants parents to know she can handle emergencies.

“I carry my CPR mask key chain with me in my bag, so I always have it just in case,” she says.

Avery prioritizes safety for the kids she watches, but also for herself. When parents use the site to ask about availability, the message goes to Avery’s mom, Lauren.

“It’s just a safety thing,” Lauren says. “She’s totally capable of scheduling things herself, but I just want to make sure she’s being safe, so I help out.”

“We’re going to Jamaica and Walt Disney World next year, so I want to save up and have some money that I can spend,” Avery says, “but I also want to save money for college.”

Otherwise, Avery runs the business on her own, which her mom thinks is impressive. “She’s probably the most responsible 12-year-old I’ve ever met,” Lauren says. “Her drive to do her own thing and succeed and grow her business is awesome. I’m really proud of her.”

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

The hardest part about starting a business? “Keeping everything organized!”

BHPARENT 19

Hiring a babysitter for your family?

South Dakota, like most states, does not have a minimum age requirement for babysitters or for leaving children home alone. However, the American Red Cross babysitting course only accepts students older than 11 years of age.

When deciding whether to hire a babysitter, parents should consider the age and needs of the child(ren) needing care, and the capabilities of the babysitter Their ability to provide care is what’s most important.

To determine if the babysitter you’re hiring is a good fit, these are some questions you might ask:

• What babysitting experience do you have?

• What ages of children have you cared for?

• What do you like best about babysitting?

• How comfortable are you with changing diapers? (or other tasks specific to your child’s needs)

• What was the scariest experience you’ve had while babysitting? How did you handle it?

• Do you have first aid or CPR training? When did you get certified?

• Do you have reliable transportation?

• Do you have references?

Know someone who wants to babysit?

“I want to have about seven families that I babysit for,” Avery says. “That way I’d have regular jobs, but also then I can experience different kids and how their families handle things. That way I learn different things I wouldn’t have otherwise. It’s a learning process for me, too.”

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Avery says. “I have a good method now, where I keep all of my notes in my planner, and I have my binder with all the forms in it so everything is in one spot. That way, if someone wants to know if I can babysit, I can check really quick and see if I’m available or not.”

Any solid business model has the potential to grow, and Avery is already looking to the future. “I want to have at least seven families that I babysit for,” she says. “Working for different families helps me learn new skills that I wouldn’t learn if I only had one or two.” If her business really takes off, Avery is even considering including other babysitters she knows. “I have a few friends my age that babysit too, so I could expand in the future,” she says.

If other kids think about starting a business — even if it’s not babysitting — Avery has some advice: “Just go for it,” she says. “If it doesn’t work out, it doesn’t work out, but you’ll still learn something. You also have to be safe, be professional, and stay organized!”

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These organizations offer babysitting, first aid, and CPR classes. Please note: this is not necessarily an allinclusive list. Please check with your local resources for the latest information.

Belle Fourche:

• The Belle Fourche Rec Center offers CPR and first aid training.

Box Elder:

• The Box Elder fire department offers CPR and first aid training.

Hot Springs:

• The Hot Springs Ambulance Service offers CPR and first aid training.

Rapid City:

• Rapid City Aquatics offers the American Red Cross babysitting course, CPR, and first aid.

• Early Childhood Connections, the YMCA, and Western Dakota Tech offer CPR and first aid.

Spearfish:

• Black Hills CPR offers a babysitting boot camp, CPR, and first aid. They also travel to neighboring communities like Lead and Deadwood.

• The Spearfish Rec & Aquatics Center offers the American Red Cross babysitting course.

• The Spearfish Ambulance Service offers CPR and first aid training.

Sturgis:

• The Sturgis Ambulance Service offers CPR classes.

If there aren’t classes near you, the American Red Cross offers online babysitting, CPR, and first aid training.

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BHPARENT 21

‘57

Puttin’

on the Fitz The crack of a bat. The scent of a freshly oiled leather glove. The cloud of dust kicked up on the corner sandlot as future Mickey Mantles round the bases.

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BASEBALL INSPIRE

words Ashley Johnson photos Jesse Brown Nelson

B

aseball isn’t just America’s pastime, it’s a big part of growing up. Whether your child swings for the fences or is content playing backyard catch, few activities blend fun and life lessons as perfectly as baseball.

START THEM YOUNG

Whether it’s signing up for peewee football, tumbling, or taking dance lessons, most kids start playing sports from a young age. Baseball is no different, with young sluggers picking up a tee-ball bat as young as 4 years old. Sports give kids a chance to learn teamwork and make friends, but also instill healthy habits early on.

For local dad Jordan Burbach, baseball was a large part of his childhood. He started young and worked his way up to playing on an American Legion team in high school. “When I was growing up, baseball was life in the summer,” he says.

“We would play nonstop from May until the end of summer, not to mention practice in between games. It took a real commitment, especially for being that young.”

When Jordan graduated high school his baseball career came to an end, but the lessons he learned through years of playing baseball stayed with him.

“From a young age I was interested in buildings and how they fit together,” he says. “But baseball taught me discipline, responsibility, and teamwork. I rely on those skills every day in my job, and I know a lot of my success comes from those early lessons.” After graduating from Montana State University, Jordan was hired as an intern at an architecture firm in Rapid City, where he is now a principal architect.

A NEW BEGINNING

In the Black Hills, there is one place that’s hallowed ground in the sport of baseball: Floyd Fitzgerald Stadium. The original stadium was built in 1957, and was named after local businessman Floyd Fitzgerald

“Baseball taught me how to trust others, and pushed me to do my best because I knew others were trusting me, too.”

BHPARENT 23

in the 70s. You won’t hear many people call it that, however: locals simply call it “the Fitz.”

Jordan grew up in Montana, but he played baseball against teams in the Black Hills, including against Post 22 in Rapid City. He fondly remembers the games he played at the Fitz: “The original Fitzgerald Stadium is a gem within the region,” he says. “And not just the Black Hills. It’s known throughout the region, and really, throughout the American Legion baseball community around the country.”

In 2018, it was evident the Fitz needed an update. Six decades of wear and tear — not to mention the flood of 1972 — were taking their toll.

“A lot of the maintenance over the years was done by volunteers and parents of the players, and they did a great job,” Jordan explains. “But as the stadium expanded and changed throughout the years, it just became harder to keep up with.” When Rapid City started looking for firms to renovate the Fitz, Jordan jumped at the chance.

Jordan’s team was selected to renovate the Fitz in 2019, and Post 22 played their last game at the original stadium in summer of 2020. Once renovations began, Jordan was involved in every step of the process.

“It was surreal, seeing that stadium come down, knowing what it meant to this community,” Jordan says. But he was excited to get to work and breathe new life into the Fitz.

THE NEXT GENERATION

By spring of 2021, the $5 million overhaul was complete. Fans were welcomed back to a new concessions stand and media box, accessible restrooms, and what quickly became a favorite addition: shaded seating.

Jordan looked forward to attending games, but for the time being, it seemed baseball would once again simply be a hobby for him.

As luck would have it, baseball wasn’t quite ready to take a back seat. Jordan traded

“I think a fun part of parenting is just slowing down and including our kids when they want to be part of something,” Jordan says.

“My parents did that for me, and coaching Hudson has given me a chance to do that with him.”

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BASEBALL INSPIRE

out his lead architect role for a new one: head coach of his son Hudson’s tee-ball team. It was an unexpected role, but one that Jordan has enjoyed immensely.

“It’s a ton of fun to coach, even if it’s a little like herding cats at times,” he laughs. “But playing sports — even tee-ball — teaches these kids responsibility and teamwork at a young age.”

They’re lessons Jordan learned playing as a kid, and lessons he hopes to instill in his kids as they grow up. “Between baseball and my parents, I grew up with a really strong work ethic,” he said. “If I can give my kids even half of what I learned, I feel like I’ll have been pretty successful.”

Hudson is a few years away from playing games at the Fitz, but Jordan looks forward to watching his kids, grandkids, and maybe even great-grandkids play baseball there.

For now, he’s simply proud to have been part of something that means so much to so many. “The Fitz is such a special place for so many people,” he says, “I just wanted to help build a facility that will stand the test of time for the next 70 years.”

Jordan says the best part of the entire experience — from the renovation at the Fitz to coaching his son’s team — is showing his children that hard work will take them a long way in life.

Just like it did for him.

Hudson’s favorite team is the Boston Red Sox, but it’s safe to say his favorite coach isn’t the head of an MLB team.

BHPARENT 25

From a city league formed in the 1920s to national champions in 1993, Post 22 and the Fitz have had a long and storied history together.

You can hardly talk about Post 22 baseball without mentioning Dave Ploof. He coached the Hardhats for 47 seasons, including 34 state titles, eight regional championships, and the team’s only national title. He never had a losing season, and his overall record was 2,483-808; making him the winningest coach in the history of Legion baseball.

Both the field at Floyd Fitzgerald Stadium and the road next to it are named in his honor.

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BASEBALL INSPIRE

T

he American Legion baseball program was formed right here in South Dakota in 1925. It was the first program in the world to provide teenagers the opportunity to compete at a national level. The goal was to teach baseball, but also develop American youth into upstanding citizens.

Today, American Legion baseball teams can be found in almost every town in the country. There are 87 teams in South Dakota, including several in the Black Hills. Over half of current Major League Baseball players grew up playing on Legion teams, not to mention the countless number of players who have gone on to college or the minors.

Rapid City’s Post 22 has been one of the most successful teams in the sport.

Since their first season, they’ve won 43 state championships, eight regional championships, and were national champions in 1993. Between 1970-1987 they won the state championship a staggering 18 years in a row — a tough record to beat no matter the sport. Dozens of Post 22 players

have gone on to successful collegiate careers, and 23 players have been drafted by Major League Baseball teams.

General Manager Wayne Sullivan played for Post 22 growing up. He says what truly makes the team special is what happens after players leave the organization. “Every player that graduates from this program goes on to be incredible men and community leaders.

And not just here in the hills, but around the country, and even the world.”

Head coach Kelvin Torve agrees the program has a big impact on the players. “Just because we’re a small town out in the middle of nowhere, doesn’t mean that you have to set your sights low,” he says. “Our players can dream about making it to the big cities and playing under the bright lights, and know that playing for Post 22 can make that a reality.”

The boys he coaches have reason to believe him, too: Kelvin played professional baseball for 13 years, including time with the New York Mets and the Minnesota Twins.

1926: Post 22’s inaugural season.

They’re known simply as the American Legion team.

1953: the Basin League is formed

by four South Dakota teams and one from Nebraska.

1956: Black Hills Sports, Inc., is

formed and construction of the Sioux Park Stadium starts.

1957: Rapid City Chiefs are admitted to the Basin League. Sioux Park Stadium is complete, Post 22 and other local teams host games there.

1970-1987: Post 22 Hardhats win 18 straight state championships.

1972: Rapid City is devastated by a flash flood. Businessman Floyd Fitzgerald oversees the repairs to Sioux Park Stadium.

1973: the Basin League is dissolved.

1979: the Sioux Park Stadium

is renamed for Floyd Fitzgerald.

1993: Post 22 Hardhats win the American Legion World Series.

1998: Post 320 officially becomes

an American Legion team, making Rapid City the only community in the country with two teams drawing players from the same geographic area.

2020: Post 22 Hardhats play their last game at the original Floyd Fitzgerald Stadium, defeating the Miles City Outlaws 12-6.

2021: the Post 22 Hardhats played

their season opener at the newly renovated Floyd Fitzgerald Stadium, defeating the 406 Flyers 5-1.

POST 22 BHPARENT 27

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MEET 2021’S NURSES OF EXCELLENCE! PROUDLY SPONSORING THE 2021 NURSES OF EXCELLENCE

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Becky Rose BSN, RN Nurse Manager of Ambulatory Operations at Monument Health Orthopedic and Specialty Hospital Tell me about yourself: I grew up on a ranch near Pringle. I have been married to my husband for 22 years now, and we have two sons, Dillon and Logan.

Why did you choose a career in nursing?

As a kid of a rancher, you learn to care for living things in a way that’s unique and special, which made me want to be a nurse since I was 12 or 14.

How long have you been a nurse?

I became a nurse in 2006. While I was in school, I used to say my husband was the best married single parent ever because he supported me even when I was working long hours and studying.

What is most rewarding about your job?

Creating a work atmosphere that feels constructive, safe, and productive for my team. It’s important to me to create a work environment where we support you professionally so you can succeed at home. I will happily cover so you can drop your kids off in the morning or go to their school programs.

What do you find most challenging?

It’s hard to quantify the impact our staff brings to our community. We specialize in love and care, but it’s hard to put a number on what that value brings.

What skills make a nurse exceptional?

I think being genuine, kind, and sincerity are the three most important things. I can teach you skills, but I can’t teach you how to be a great human being. Someone that comes to work intending to care for another human being is unique, and that’s what makes an exceptional nurse.

What advice would you give others thinking about becoming a nurse?

It’s a great job, and it’s absolutely worth all the work.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be my dad’s best ranch hand!

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Danielle Sharp LPN Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology at Rapid City Medical Center Tell me about yourself.

I was born right here in Rapid City and graduated from Central High School. I am married with three daughters, ages 18, 17, and 12. Our eldest daughter just started college this year at Black Hills State University.

Why did you choose a career in nursing?

I’ve always wanted to go into a medical career. I took three years off after high school and then started taking classes at Western Dakota Tech. It was the perfect fit for me, and I just fell in love with nursing.

How long have you been a nurse?

It’s been 19 years now.

What is most rewarding about your job?

Getting to interact with patients every day and seeing their quality of life improve when their allergies and asthma get under control.

Being able to be part of that and helping them is great.

What do you find most challenging?

Dealing with insurance companies is tough.

I spend a lot of time trying to convince them our patients need the medication to make them feel better.

What skills make a nurse exceptional?

Kindness, attention to detail, being productive and going above and beyond, and always giving 110% to help patients feel their best.

What advice would you give others thinking about becoming a nurse?

Prepare yourself for the challenge. School is hard, and the work is hard, but it’s so worth it in the end.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A pediatrician.

BHPARENT 31

Angel Benson RN Nurse Navigator, Black Hills Surgical Hospital Tell me about yourself.

I grew up on a farm in eastern South Dakota, and am the oldest of six kids. I graduated high school from DeSmet and college at Huron University. I have two children, Skye and Ciara, and I enjoy hiking, biking, golf, and cooking for family and friends.

Why did you choose a career in nursing?

I have always felt deep empathy for people and have a passion to work as an advocate through all aspects of their healthcare. My great-grandmother, grandmother, aunt, and mother were all nurses and seeing their drive and ability to help people greatly influenced me.

How long have you been a nurse?

I’ve been a nurse for 26 years.

What is most rewarding about your job?

I enjoy teaching the total joint class to surgical candidates. It’s also rewarding to guide people through a surgical experience and watch their quality of life improve.

What do you find most challenging?

Sometimes it is challenging to not be able to do more.

It can also be a challenge to identify an individual’s specific health challenges in order to develop a health plan to optimize their health status and surgical outcome.

What skills make a nurse exceptional?

An exceptional nurse is empathetic, compassionate, and is an extraordinary listener. They’re able to identify the specific challenges for every patient in order to develop and execute the best individualized treatment plan, and work as an advocate for their patients in every way.

What advice would you give others thinking about becoming a nurse?

It’s rewarding to use your talents and energy to help people; to be their advocate and their voice so they can receive exceptional physical and emotional care. A nursing career can be tough, but helping patients and families during their most vulnerable time is priceless.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a movie star! But seeing my grandmother and mother become such influences in people’s lives made me realize helping people was my passion. My mom always tells me she named me “Angel” because she knew watching over people would be my calling.

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NURSES OF EXCELLENCE

Kayla Bentley BSN, RN at Rapid City Medical Center South, Family Medicine Clinic and Interventional Pain Clinic Tell me about yourself.

I was born in Canton, Pennsylvania and moved to Rapid City in 2005. I am engaged to my best friend Drew and we plan to get married in 2022. We have 2 cats who we spoil. I come from a big family. I enjoy being out on the lake and relaxing with a book.

Why did you choose a career in nursing?

I went to college for a degree in medical laboratory science but I decided to pursue nursing after seeing how well my grandfather was taken care of in hospice during his battle with cancer.

How long have you been a nurse?

I have been a nurse for 4 years. I started my nursing career in the hospital and later transitioned to family medicine and interventional pain.

What is most rewarding about your job?

The most rewarding part of my job, by far, are the relationships I have built with my patients and peers. I feel lucky to get to know so many amazing people and learn their stories. The colleagues I have met along the way are a huge part of who I am today.

What do you find most challenging?

Being a nurse can be emotionally draining. We give so much of ourselves to others; whether it’s putting on a brave face or a big smile.

What skills make a nurse exceptional?

I believe an exceptional nurse is good at communicating and great at listening. An exceptional nurse can multitask without seeming rushed, is empathetic and understanding, and is a team player.

What advice would you give others thinking about becoming a nurse?

It’s by no means easy, but so rewarding. Being a nurse is a big part of who I am; it has presented some of my greatest challenges, but also my greatest victories. There are so many avenues you can go down and so many ways to advance your career.

I have gained lifelong friends, role models, and countless life lessons.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a teacher. I enjoyed school and I wanted others to enjoy learning too.

BHPARENT 33

Jeryann Sanders BSN, RN Nurse Supervisor at Black Hills Urgent Care, Spearfish Tell me about yourself.

I was born and raised in Belle Fourche, and I have been married to my husband Nate for two years.

When I’m not working I enjoy creative activities like gardening, planting flowers, crafts, and refinishing furniture. I play in sports throughout the year, including league softball and bowling, and I volunteer as a nurse for the Special Olympics in the Northern Hills area.

Why did you choose a career in nursing?

I’ve always possessed a passion for helping people, but I didn’t always know I wanted to be a nurse. I started my undergraduate studies with pre-optometry coursework, but was encouraged to pursue nursing by my twin sister, who was already two semesters into the program.

How long have you been a nurse?

I graduated from SDSU College of Nursing with my BSN and 3 minors (Biology, Gerontology and Health Science) in December 2013. I have been working as a nurse for the past 8 years.

What is most rewarding about your job?

As a nurse supervisor, I see healthcare from multiple points of views. I not only care for patients, but our employees and collaborating businesses as well.

What do you find most challenging?

Healthcare is constantly changing, which can be challenging, but also exciting. I invite challenge and have committed to being a lifelong learner.

What skills make a nurse exceptional?

A great nurse can identify problems and find resolutions. They know their resources and aren’t afraid to ask questions. They possess many talents, including delegation, prioritization, time management, organization, and teamwork.

What advice would you give others thinking about becoming a nurse?

Stay humble. Always be willing to learn. Nursing is a selfless profession but so rewarding. A nursing degree sets you up for many career options and opportunities. Go for it!

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When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

An artist or pianist. My mom made me an art kit, and my parents got me into piano lessons and choir. I’ve always had an artsy creative side.

NURSES OF EXCELLENCE

Melissa Rineard RN Lactation Services at Monument Health Tell me about yourself.

I was raised in California, but I have lived in South Dakota for over 40 years. I’m married to my amazing husband, Eric, who is also a nurse.

We have an amazing daughter Erica who is a lawyer, and a son, Christian, who we were blessed with for 14 months before he passed because of a heart condition. In my free time I love racquetball, hiking, being outside, and scrapbooking. My happy place is at the ocean with my family.

Why did you choose a career in nursing?

I wanted to help other people.

How long have you been a nurse?

It’s been 36 years now.

What is most rewarding about your job?

I am thankful for the job I get to do as a lactation consultant, birth planner and grief support nurse. I get to support women in their birth experience by assisting with birth planning. I am passionate about aiding a mother as they breastfeed their children. I also facilitate a grief support group with my husband. We can connect to these couples because of our past experience. I am thankful for the team I work with as I can only do my job because of them.

I am thankful that Monument Health supports me in my roles and allows and encourages me to continue to grow in my nursing career. I am thankful to God for all of this.

What do you find most challenging?

Being a witness to a loss that people experience and wishing loss did not have to occur.

What skills make a nurse exceptional?

Being a patient advocate, listening to your patient and their needs. Loving people right where they are at.

What advice would you give others thinking about becoming a nurse?

Do it. Nursing is an awesome, rewarding field to be in.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A cruise director or a veterinarian.

BHPARENT 35

Katy Davis LPN Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rapid City Medical Center Tell me about yourself.

I am married to Scott, who works for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. We have two girls, Lily and Macey. Lily will be a junior in high school this year and Macey an 8th grader. We have two fur babies which we adopted from the Oglala Pet Project rescue that keep us busy. We enjoy living in the Black Hills.

Why did you choose a career in nursing?

I have always had a passion for taking care of people. Nursing has provided me the opportunity to take care of patients throughout different stages of their life.

How long have you been a nurse?

I have been a nurse for just over a year, but I have worked in healthcare for over 15 years.

What is most rewarding about your job?

Interacting with patients and being able to provide care for them is the most rewarding.

As an OB/GYN nurse, I enjoy building bonds with patients and their families through both celebrations and challenging times.

What do you find most challenging?

Trying to make sure that all patients’ needs are met as soon as possible and allowing grace for myself when I have bad days.

What skills make a nurse exceptional?

Being able to multitask, having empathy for patients and their needs, and providing support while creating trusting relationships.

What advice would you give others thinking about becoming a nurse?

Stick with it. It’s one of the hardest things that I have been through, but one of the most rewarding and fulfilling.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

An elementary education teacher.

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Finding What Sticks

Today’s parents are under more pressure than ever to expose their kids to a variety of activities. From schoolwork to sports and volunteering, it can be a lot. Fortunately, there are ways to keep everything in balance. words Katie Wiederholt photos Jesse Brown Nelson

S

ummer break had barely begun when my seven-year-old daughter began compiling a list of the activities she wanted to be in this fall as she begins second grade. In no time the list contained cheerleading, jazz, tap, rock-climbing, and guitar lessons. I started to weigh the pros and cons.

My daughter recently became involved in 4-H and has taken ballet one night a week for the past three years. That schedule has not overwhelmed us, but I am cautious to make sure she and her four-

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year-old sister have time to just be kids.

I try to balance the multitude of benefits that come from involving our children in a variety of activities with their other needs, such as getting plenty of sleep and having ample time to complete schoolwork.

When it comes to signing children up for extra-curricular activities, Dr. Kimberly Hushagen of Black Hills Pediatrics recommends starting with one or two activities and seeing how the child does with them. More activities can be added if the child requests them and can still balance other aspects of their life. A good place to start is to look at the child’s interests, remembering that extracurriculars

include more than just sports.

“There are numerous positive effects to extra-curricular activities including socialization, teamwork skills, leadership skills, decreased high-risk behaviors, and positive outcomes later in life including college completion,” Dr. Hushagen says.

There are many ways we as parents can support our children as they try fun new activities.

THE OVER-SCHEDULER

Some children are excited to try any activity available to them. While enrolling in a new activity can seem exciting, over-scheduling can be detrimental to

BALANCE INSPIRE

I try to balance the multitude of benefits that come from involving our children in a variety of activities with their other needs, such as getting plenty of sleep and having ample time to complete schoolwork.

BHPARENT 39

the child. Dr. Hushagen says children can show that they are over-scheduled in many ways, such as being more irritable or having stomach aches or more frequent headaches. Those problems can easily spread to other aspects of their lives and impact them negatively. It is important to take note if the child is not getting enough sleep during the day or is struggling in school.

“Trying to encourage their growth rather than pressuring them to win or be the best is the most important way we can support children in their activities,” she says.

THE SERIAL QUITTER

The registration fees are paid, uniforms are purchased, and practice or lessons are underway; but what happens if the child becomes disinterested in the activity and wants to quit? Dr. Hushagen recommends having an open discussion about why the child wants to quit the activity so you can better understand his or her reservations.

“If it is a new activity they are starting, you could compromise on a set number of times they have to attend before they decide whether they want to continue,” she says. “Pushing a child to continue to do an activity that they do not enjoy can lead to both psychological and physical side effects.”

THE WALLFLOWER

Some children might be interested in trying new activities, but might be shy or afraid to get started. Dr. Hushagen says starting with one activity that meets infrequently is a good way to gradually introduce the child.

Choose an activity that aligns with his or her favorite interests.

“As they become more comfortable, you may find them asking you to become more involved,” she says.

LET YOUR CHILD LEAD

As with everything in life, the amount of time for extracurriculars varies by child.

Some children are able to tolerate more activities than others. It is important to choose activities that align with our children’s interests and allow them to have fun, learn, and grow.

It is not necessary to sign up for a club or professional lessons to try out a new activity. Dr. Hushagen says family activities like doing Zumba, biking, or taking a brisk walk around the neighborhood are also great ways to get everyone moving. The recommended amount of exercise for school-age children is 60 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous intensity exercise.

In our family, we are still weighing options when it comes to activities. We are allowing our young daughters to dabble in some they enjoy while making sure we have time for priorities like family dinners, adequate sleep, and free play. Like all parents, our goal is to make sure we help our children choose activities that leave them happy, healthy, and feeling good about themselves.

Whether your kids want to do everything under the sun or nothing at all, it can be challenging to navigate.

Let them lead, but also set boundaries.

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Dr. Kimberly L. Hushagen

A board-certified pediatrician who completed her residency training at Penn State Children's Hospital at the sweetest place on earth, Hershey, PA. She was born and raised in a small town in North Dakota and is happy to be back in the Midwest. She started with Black Hills Pediatrics in August 2020.

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BHPARENT 41

Dreaming & Achieving

BRIGHT FUTURES 42

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PLAN AHEAD INSPIRE

Every kid dreams about what they want to be when they grow up.

Whether they envision taking care of animals, playing professional sports, or singing the next chart-topping single, kids aren’t afraid to dream big.

O

words Avery Thomas

nce your child reaches upper middle school and high school, it’s time to encourage them to actively explore career fields that interest them. Whether they shadow a working professional for the day or land a summer job in a related field, it’s important for kids to gain real-world experience before they head off to college or technical school. It’s never too early to dream about the future!

“What do You Want to be When You Grow Up?”

Talk with your child about their career aspirations. Where do they see themselves in ten or fifteen years? Does college seem appealing?

Encourage your child to take a free career assessment online to evaluate their interests. Websites such as the Princeton Review offer free career quizzes, while websites like 16 Personalities and 123Test give insight into the best career choices for each personality type.

To help kids explore options, the South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation provides career booklets for pre-K, elementary, and middle school students, available online as a free download.

Check out dlr.sd.gov and search for Career Wonders for more information.

If they still aren’t sure what they’d like to do, volunteering is a great way to start!

They can help organizations around the Black Hills in a variety of roles, and help those in need while they do it.

Job Search: Where do You Start?

You’ve narrowed down your child’s interests — now it’s time to start the job hunt!

Help your child search for promising opportunities on job websites, and encourage them to cold-call businesses where they’d enjoy working. Typical jobs for teenagers include lifeguarding, nannying, retail, and landscaping — but seasonal, entry-level positions are also available in parks and recreation departments, hospitals, nursing homes, event centers, and libraries.

Career Preparation

Most businesses and companies encourage applicants to submit a resume, including retail and fast-food chains.

Even if your teenager has little to no work experience, their resume should showcase their volunteer work, extracurricular involvement, and soft skills.

Did they participate in a leadership camp last summer? Go on a mission trip? Start a school club? Don’t be afraid to brag!

Entrepreneurship

Maybe your child or teenager is an entrepreneur at heart — nothing excites them more than opening a lemonade stand in the summer or selling homemade bracelets at a local craft fair. Starting a business will introduce them to important skills such as money management, marketing, and customer service.

If your child is trying to come up with a business idea, encourage them to make a list of their favorite activities. Do they enjoy

making art? Playing with animals? Sewing?

Whether your child offers dog walking services or sells homemade greeting cards, remember that the outcome is less important than the experience they’ll gain.

Job Shadowing & Apprenticeship

What better way to learn about a job than by spending a day in the life of a professional?

If you live in Rapid, the Rapid City Area Schools organizes job shadowing and youth internship programs for high school students. RCAS shadowing programs give students the opportunity to gain real-world experience within an industry or local business.

If your kids don’t attend an RCAS school, the Department of Labor & Regulation provides information about student job shadowing and internships under their Career Launch program.

The state also offers youth apprenticeships for high school juniors and seniors through the StartTodaySD program. Students can choose to learn a technical skill such as carpentry, plumbing, pipe fitting, or welding. During their apprenticeship, high school students not only learn a highly sought-after trade but also earn a paycheck and, in some cases, post-secondary credits.

The biggest thing to remember as you help your child explore their options is to let them guide the conversation. Listen and be supportive of what they want to try, even if it’s something you had no idea they were interested in. You never know what they’ll grab onto!

BHPARENT 43

Interested in applying for the Youth Institute or helping out? Email them:

rcyimedia@gmail.com or head to their website rcyi.org

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DIGITAL DYNAMOS

Many extracurricular activities in the Black Hills focus on academics, sports, or agriculture. More and more are starting to focus on liberal arts and creative industries, and the Rapid City Youth Institute is leading the way.

In 2012, former YMCA Director Roger Gallimore attended a conference in Long Beach, California where he learned about the Youth Institute. He was impressed by the program, and when he came home he got to work replicating it in Rapid City. The first summer program in 2013 had eight teenagers sign up, and it’s only grown every year since.

GET READY TO LEARN

words Ashley Johnson photos Jesse Brown Nelson

The Youth Institute is an 8-week long summer program for kids in 7-10th grade that teaches the basics of creative media. Classes in the program focus on graphic design, photography, video, and magazine layout. The program starts out with a week-long camping trip where the students can bond and become friends, and ends with a graduation ceremony and presentation of their final project.

Chris Huling has been the Youth Institute’s Coordinator for the past year, and he’s enjoyed every minute of it.

“Sometimes it’s a hard sell, getting parents to sign their kids up for 8 weeks of summer camp, but it’s so worth it,” he says. “The kids learn so much and love

coming here. It’s a great program, and really fills a niche to help kids explore creative fields.”

LOOK TO THE FUTURE

Once students graduate from the 8-week summer program, they can participate in the Youth Institute’s after-school program. The school year schedule isn’t as formal as the summer, allowing students to focus on things that interest them. Students learn more skills like editing, leadership, screenwriting and video projects, and can earn badges for completing each course.

The next step is coming back during the summer as part of the alumni programs. In these classes, students learn more specialized skills, but also help teach and mentor the younger students in the program. Alumni can also work towards certifications, including the Adobe Certified Associate. The ACA validates professional proficiency in a specific Adobe Software, and puts students on par with college graduates and creative professionals.

The Youth Institute also offers the Perspective program, where students work with local businesses and nonprofits to create screen printed shirts. Students are involved in every step of the process from taking the initial order to buying shirts and creating the design.

“Perspective helps them learn the entrepreneurship they need to market their creative skills,” Chris says. “It really helps them connect the dots between the creative process and the business aspect.”

The Youth Institute has been hugely successful so far, and as they look forward to their 10th year Chris says they hope to include more community members in the program. “It would be great to have people in the community come teach,” he says. “Even just a short class or a workshop, it would be great for the kids to see people who are actually doing these things.”

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HELPING YOU GROW YOUR FAMILY

One in eight couples face challenges getting pregnant – but there’s a lot we can do to help. We offer fertility treatments at Rushmore OB/GYN in Rapid City. Sanford Health is here to support you at every moment, so you can build a relationship that lasts.

Call (605) 328-8800 to schedule an appointment with a fertility and reproductive medicine specialist.

669-696-226 5/21

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KEITH HANSEN, MD Fertility and Reproductive Medicine

TIFFANY VON WALD, MD Fertility and Reproductive Medicine

FINANCE COLUMN

College Smarts: Paying for School Whether your child is 8 years old or 18, college is fast approaching. You’ve heard of FAFSA, financial aid, work-study ― what does it all mean, and how can you prepare for it? It’s not as complicated as it sounds (we promise!). Whether your child is heading off to college in one year or ten, we’ve broken down the basics so you’ll know more about what to expect.

WHAT IS FINANCIAL AID?

Students often receive financial aid from a variety of sources, including their college of choice, the state or federal government, and private organizations.

There are four main types of financial aid: loans, grants, work-study, and scholarships.

Loans are taken out for a certain amount of money and must be repaid with interest.

Students often take out loans from the federal government, their college, or a local bank or credit union.

Grants, unlike loans, do not usually

need to be repaid. Several well-known federal grants include Pell Grants, FSEOG Grants, and TEACH Grants.

Work-study, a federally funded

program, provides students with parttime jobs to cover the cost of tuition or miscellaneous expenses. Ranging from tutoring to tech support, work-study jobs offer students a structured environment and valuable work experience.

WHAT IS THE FAFSA?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is a

form that determines college students’ eligibility for financial assistance from the federal government. The FAFSA is free, and must be filled out before the start of each academic year if you or your child are seeking financial aid. Most colleges use the FAFSA to determine students’ financial situations, including how much financial aid they will receive.

WHAT ABOUT SCHOLARSHIPS?

Incoming students often receive athletic scholarships contingent on their participation in collegiate athletics, or academic scholarships awarded in recognition of their high school GPA. Extracurricular scholarships, for participation in activities like band or choir, are also awarded to incoming freshmen or transfer students.

Community foundations, businesses, and other organizations often offer scholarships opportunities, which are awarded based on a student’s chosen major, extracurricular involvement, or financial need.

Many local scholarship sources, such as The Black Hills Area Community Foundation, designate scholarships by region and high school. For example, the Deerfield Scholarship, a $1,500 renewable scholarship, is awarded to a senior from Hill City High School. Similarly, the Jamie Zepp Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating senior from Rapid City Central High School. Other scholarships, such as The Joyce Bedingfield Memorial Nursing Scholarship, are awarded based on students’ field of interest or intended degree path.

While there are many local resources available to Black Hills families, collegebound students can also search for scholarships on websites like Unigo, Scholarships.com, The College Board, and Fastweb.

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Lyla

LITTLE BLACK HILLS BATTLES is a recognition of Monument Health’s Pediatric patients who bravely fight childhood illness and disease every day right here in our community.

Donations through Monument Health’s Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) program are devoted to helping these children. All funds stay local.

Monument Health offers pediatric services close to home. www.monument.health/lbhb

Two-year-old Lyla has spent a good portion of her life fighting a battle that no kid should have to fight. She was diagnosed with bilateral kidney cancer at 14 months, after tumors were found on both of her kidneys during an emergency department visit following an appointment in urgent care. Lyla spent the next six months receiving aggressive chemotherapy treatments out of town.

Following her initial treatments she was able to continue her chemotherapy as an outpatient on the Monument Health Pediatrics Unit, working closely with her Oncology team from out of town. Receiving her care close to home allowed her to continue spending time with her grandparents, and gave her family the freedom to live life as normally as possible. Lyla is currently in remission, only visiting the hospital for routine imaging scans or for a short stay due to her compromised immune system.

Lyla is thriving and loves trips to Canyon Lake Park to play and look at the ducks!

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WELLNESS COLUMN

TIME TO CHOOSE

DON’T OVERDO IT

Exercise can also reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression and help kids build self-confidence. Additional benefits include developing motor skills for young children, learning teamwork, and developing important social skills.

It also gives kids a way to have fun.

Sports and other extracurriculars have positive benefits for children and teens.

Physical, mental, and emotional growth — not to mention great friendships — can emerge from these activities. It’s also important not to overcommit.

Kids need time to be kids, which means time that isn’t structured. Like adults, your children and teens can get burnt out and anxious about their responsibilities. Make sure your children have time to complete their homework and activities while still getting adequate rest. And don’t forget the importance of family time! Try to have at least one family dinner a week to touch base on how school is going.

CLUBS HELP TOO

KEEP IT IN PERSPECTIVE

As children head back to school, many are deciding what sports to try out for, what clubs to join, and how they want to spend their free time.

It’s worth encouraging your kids to get involved in extracurricular activities — there are a number of benefits to physical and mental wellbeing. Here’s what you should know as your kids get involved.

BENEFITS OF SPORTS

By Heather Spain, M.D. Monument Health Behavioral Health Center

Some of the physical benefits of youth sports are obvious — they provide exercise, which can help children develop a lifelong commitment to health and fitness. Research has shown regular physical activity can improve overall cardiorespiratory fitness and build strong muscles and bones. It can also reduce their risk of developing conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity.

While many kids love them, organized sports aren’t for everyone. Other extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations can deliver the same self-confidence, team-building, and social skills as sports. Though they may not provide the same source of exercise team sports do, extracurriculars like marching band, theater and volunteer organizations can help your son or daughter avoid being sedentary.

Competition is normal and healthy, but it’s not the end of the world if kids don’t win a game or don’t get first chair in band. No matter how good someone is, they won’t always be the best. Don’t pile on pressure to win. Instead, praise hard work, good sportsmanship, and a good attitude. Competition should bring out the best in people, not the worst — which applies to kids on the field, but also parents in the stands.

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ASK THE DENTIST

Do you find yourself avoiding ice water or hot coffee because of your sensitive teeth?

You are not alone! It is important to determine the source of the sensitivity to properly address the issue. Common sources of tooth sensitivity include: • Tooth decay (cavities) • Gum recession • Fractured tooth or filling leading to exposure of dentin (the inner layer of your tooth) • Tooth erosion from acidic foods and drinks, acid reflux, or morning sickness • Issues with the health of the nerve of your tooth

full effect, so be patient!

We also have topical desensitizers and fluoride varnish that we can apply to your teeth during your regular checkups to provide longer lasting relief. Many times, conservative composite bonding can be completed to cover the sensitive areas. If decay is present or a significant amount of tooth structure is missing, fillings or crowns may be the best option to protect the integrity of the remaining tooth. Surgical gum grafting is a great treatment option for areas where the gums

Fortunately, there are many potential solutions to help alleviate this discomfort. The first thing I usually recommend is switching to a desensitizing toothpaste such as Sensodyne and adding a daily fluoride mouth rinse. These products contain ingredients that block the nerve transmission from the surface of your tooth. These treatments

have receded from the teeth leading to areas of root exposure.

In some cases, the sensitivity is derived from irritated or infected nerve tissues in your tooth and root canal treatment may be necessary.

Eliminating tooth sensitivity can greatly improve your quality of life. If you are suffering from tooth sensitivity, reach out to your dental professional to see

typically take a few weeks to take

what options may be best for you.

DR. RIPP

(605) 342-1432

rapidcitydentalclinic.com 2525 W Main St #304, Rapid City

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Is your child a picky eater?

Do they struggle with eating? Has mealtime become a battle?

If you answered yes, then your child may benefit from Feeding Therapy with Children’s Therapy Services.

WHAT IS IT?

Working with a trained occupational or speech therapist to teach a child how to become an independent & functional eater.

WHO BENEFITS? Picky Eaters Failure to Thrive G-tube Dependence Refusing Food Tantrums at Mealtime Food or Swallowing Fears Oral Motor Deficits Sensory Sensitivity

HOW DO I BEGIN! Ask your doctor for a referral.

Feeding therapy begins with an assessment of skills & needs to help determine if there is a physical problem, sensory challenge or lack of oral-motor skills.

Caroline Smith OTR/L Caroline is a Rapid City native and is returning home after 20 years of living and working in Las Vegas, NV. She brings 10 years of experience with increased specialization in feeding and sensory processing therapies to the Children Therapy Services team.

She’s ready to help ease stressful mealtimes and assist children in building

healthy relationships with food.

Contact us for more information on Feeding Therapy 605.716.2634 | ChildrensTherapyServicesSD.com 110 N Cambell Street | Suite A • Rapid City, SD

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STEAM COLUMN

STEAM Field Trips in the Black Hills Taking field trips as a family is an easy way to stay local and learn something new. Another perk?

A trip to Sanford Lab or an afternoon at the Journey Museum might just spark your kids’ interest in pursuing a career in STEAM. Our region is brimming with opportunities in STEAM fields. From scientific research to archaeological discoveries as recent as the 1970s, attractions in the hills offer kids an introduction to the exciting world of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.

SDSM&T MUSEUM OF GEOLOGY

SANFORD LAB HOMESTAKE VISITOR CENTER

Sanford Lab, located in Lead, offers free admission to their exhibit hall. Kids can examine mining artifacts, watch videos, and view a 3-D model of the underground. Visitors can also stop by the observation area to view the 1,250-foot-deep Open Cut. After exploring the museum, consider taking a one-hour trolley tour through historic Lead, beginning at Sanford Lab and the Yates hoist room.

Free to the public, the Museum of Geology is open Monday through Saturday. Explore exhibits on paleontology and mineralogy, including skeletons of dinosaurs, fossils from the Badlands, and a fluorescent mineral room. For a stayat-home field trip, take a virtual tour of the museum and its exhibits, which vary from symbiosis to conservation paleobiology. The campus’ museum also organizes several events throughout the year, including an annual Night at the Museum and Dinosaur Eggstravaganza.

THE MAMMOTH SITE

If you’re planning a day trip to Hot Springs or live nearby, stop by the Mammoth Site with the kiddos. Check out the active paleontological dig site and stroll the nature and geology walkways. Are your kids interested in learning about animal tracks, erosion, or odontology? You’re in luck — the museum gives group classes for children in pre-K to 12th grade.

THE JOURNEY MUSEUM

This Rapid City staple offers interactive STEAM classes for young children. Check out their exhibits on geology, paleontology, and archaeology, and enjoy a show at the planetarium. Take your kids to the STEAM Lab where they can try on a lab coat, use a microscope, and try out a discovery box.

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EDUCATION COLUMN

Might as well

Jump Did you know there’s a connection between physical activity and improved school performance for kids?

There have been a multitude of studies in the past decade linking the two. From increasing recess times to improving physical education classes, it’s clear that exercise benefits kids. In recent years it’s also been found that doing physical activity during academics helps them retain the material better.

In a study of about 500 kids, adding exercise resulted in students learning an additional four months of material over two years versus their classmates who didn’t have active lessons. You don’t have to wait that long to see results; physical

activity can energize kids to complete a task or help break them out of a rut if they’re frustrated.

The science behind it? Physical activity makes our body produce endorphins, which can reduce stress and improve our outlook. For kids, it can help them change obstacles into a challenge they can overcome, or see a problem in a new light.

Most studies were conducted in a classroom, but parents can use exercise to help their children with homework.

Here are a couple ways you can implement this idea at home.

• If your kids are working on math, have them solve a basic math problem like three times two, and do as many jumping jacks as the answer; six.

• For more advanced math, have them read the problem aloud, and then run in place while they explain how they would find the answer.

• If they’re studying topics like history or science, you can help by quizzing them with true or false questions. If the answer is true, they will do a movement like a spin in place. For false, pick another movement like jumping in the air.

• For tasks that require memorization, like spelling, pick smaller movements and use them for each piece of information. For example, if your kid spells the word “apple,” have them stand on one foot, and then switch feet on every letter.

If your kids are having trouble focusing altogether, take a break and do a short, high-intensity burst of activity. Try doing a shuttle run between your front door and the mailbox, see who can do 10 burpees the fastest, or even run in place as fast as you can for 30 seconds. The goal is to get their blood pumping; the increase in oxygen and endorphins well help them focus and power through whatever they’re stuck on.

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PROUD SPONSOR OF BLACK HILLS CUTIES

SHARE YOUR CUTIES ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM WITH #BLACKHILLSCUTIES

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BLACK HILLS CUTIES

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PROUD SPONSOR OF BLACK HILLS CUTIES

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BLACK HILLS CUTIES

Grow up smiling. dakotadental4kids.com | BHPARENT 59

September

Recurring Events Rapid City Farmers Market Wednesdays and Saturdays 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Hill City Farmers Market Tuesdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Prairie Berry Deadwood Farmers Market Tuesdays 3-7 p.m. at Outlaw Square Front Porch Coalition’s Flock Off Suicide fundraiser. For $20 you can request a flock of pink flamingos to visit a friend’s yard for 24 hours! All proceeds benefit suicide awareness and families who have suffered a loss.

Community Night in the Box Enjoy food trucks, live music, bounce castles, yard games, and more at Box Elder’s weekly event night.

Every Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. until September 28.

September

Friday-Saturday 10-11 First Annual Fair in the Square Deadwood’s Outlaw Square is hosting an open aircraft fair from 3-8 p.m.

Friday, and 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Saturday.

Friday-Saturday 10-11 Black Hills Polkapalooza Enjoy a fun weekend of authentic German food, dancing, and, of course, polka music at Palmer Gulch! 4-10p.m. both days.

Friday-Sunday 10-12 Stratobowl Historic Balloon Launch History in the 1930s when a balloon launched from this bowl and entered the stratosphere. Every morning at sunrise, hike the Stratobowl Rim Trail at sunrise to watch hot air balloons launch in commemoration of the event. Rapid City, 6 a.m.

Saturday 11 Patriot Day Celebration Box Elder is hosting family-friendly fun all day long! The parade starts at 2:30 p.m., followed by live music, food, and kid’s activities. Front Porch Coalition will host a butterfly release at 5 p.m.

End the day with fireworks at 8 p.m.

Saturday 11 9/11 Grand Stair Challenge Hot Springs hosts an annually organized climb of the Battle Mountain Grand Staircase. Climb as much as you are able, climb in remembrance. Hot Springs, 6 a.m.

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Saturday-Sunday 11-12 Quilt Show and Sale Enjoy two days of fun dedicated to the fabric arts!

Vendors, demonstrations, prizes, and more! Hill City, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Saturday 11 YFS Harvest Festival Youth & Family Services is hosting two days of fall fun at the Fullerton Farm. Play games, win prizes, learn about bees, and more! Box Elder, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Monday 13 Wags & Waves Grab your dogs and head to the Jimmy Hilton Municipal Pool for two hours of fun!

Your doggo can swim for $5 at the gate, and the money benefits the Humane Society of the Black Hills.

Rapid City, 5-7 p.m.

Friday=Sunday 17-19 Naja Shrine Circus The legendary three-ring spectacle is coming to town! Watch acrobats, wild animals, and clowns at the Marnett Fieldhouse at the Monument. Rapid City, times vary.

Saturday 18 Storybook Island Adult Fun Night This one is just for mom and dad — head to Storybook Island for a night of dinner, drinks, and adults-only fun!

Tickets required. Rapid City, 5:30 p.m.

Saturday 18 OrthoPeak Run Monument Health hosts their 2nd annual run-up Terry Peak Ski Area! Lead, 6 a.m.-1 p.m.

Thursday-Saturday 23-25 Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival Head to Custer for the 56th annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup on

BLACK HILLS EVENTS

Saturday 25 National Park free day Discover our national parks — including Badlands, Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, and the Minuteman Missile Site — for free.

Saturday 25 Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival Main Street Square and Memorial Park host the biggest downtown festival of the year from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday 26 Crazy Horse Fall Volksmarch Join the most popular organized hike in the country as you hike 6.2 miles to the top of the largest carving-in-progress in the world. 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

October

Friday-Saturday 1-2 Deadwood Oktoberfest Enjoy a weekend of German music, food, dancing, and wiener dog races in downtown Deadwood.

Saturday 2 Harvest Fest in the Box Enjoys a vendor fair, food trucks, bounce castles, crafts, and prize giveaways.

Free pumpkins for kids under 12 starting at 10 a.m. while supplies last. Box Elder, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Saturday 2 Cruiser Car Show Step back in time at Main Street Square when classic cars and exotic hot rods line the streets. Cast a vote for your favorite and check out the street fair. Rapid City, 2-6 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday 2-3 10th Annual Run Crazy Horse Run in the shadow of the world’s largest mountain carving, Crazy Horse Memorial. Kids races on Saturday, half marathon, marathon, and marathon relay on Sunday. Crazy Horse Memorial.

Thursday-Saturday 7-9 Wild West Songwriters Festival Do you have a budding musician who wants to take their talent to the next level? Check out the Wild West Songwriters Festival in Deadwood!

Friday-Saturday 8-9 Stunningham Farms 2nd Annual Pumpkin Patch Centennial Park hosts two days of festive fun to kick off the fall season! Hot Springs.

Friday-Sunday 8-10 35th Annual Black Hills Powwow This preeminent Black Hills event is not to be missed!

Enjoy three days of incredible dancing, music, food, and celebration!

Rapid City.

Recurring Events

October

Friday and stay in the park for family fun and the arts festival. The roundup is at 9:30 a.m. on Friday.

Rapid City Farmers Market Wednesdays and Saturdays 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Hill City Farmers Market Tuesdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Prairie Berry (last day is October 12) Deadwood Farmers Market Tuesdays 3-7 p.m. at Outlaw Square Fall Festival Days Saturdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Old MacDonald’s Farm. One admission fee and 5 Saturdays of fun. Enjoy the pumpkin patch, pony, trail and wagon rides, bouncy house and of course, hands-on animal fun!

Rapid City

Saturday-Monday 9-11 WaTiki Waterpark Fall Fest Splash into fun with Koko and enjoy s’mores, hot apple cider, arts and crafts, a bounce house, and more!

Rapid City, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

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EVENTS BLACK HILLS

Monday 11 Native American Day Monday 11 Native American Day Celebration Crazy Horse Memorial hosts a day of food, dancing, and singing in honor of Native American Day. Crazy Horse Memorial, 10 a.m.

Saturday 30 Rapid City Polar Plunge Head up to Black Hills Harley-Davidson for this year’s polar plunge. Get a team together or just come and watch — all proceeds benefit Special Olympics South Dakota. Rapid City, 9 a.m.

Saturday 30 Safe N’ Sweet Trick N’ Treat Storybook Island is hosting a Trick N’ Treat where your family can stock up on candy without worrying about walking around the neighborhood. This year, there are two time slots, 2-5 p.m., and 6-9 p.m., and entry is $3 per person.

Rapid City.

Saturday 30 Scare in the Square Tiny ghouls and goblins invade Main Street Square for an afternoon of family fun held in conjunction with the Downtown Rapid City Business Group’s Downtown Trick-or-Treat.

Rapid City, 12-2 p.m.

Sunday 31 Happy Halloween!

November

Thursday 4 MasterChef Junior Live!

This family-friendly show will feature head-to-head cooking demonstrations and fun challenges with past MasterChef Junior contestants, and an overall immersive audience experience fun for all ages.

The Monument, Rapid City, 7-9 p.m.

Sunday 7 Daylight Savings Time Ends Make sure to set your family’s clocks back one hour!

Thursday 11 Veterans Day Thursday 11 Veterans Day Ceremony Show your support and appreciation for our armed forces who have served and are currently serving. Free coffee and hot chocolate, and free breakfast sandwiches are available for veterans. Main Street Square, Rapid City. 10-11 a.m.

Scan the QR Code for more family-friendly events happening in the Black Hills.

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Thursday 11 National Park free day Discover our national parks — including Badlands, Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, and the Minuteman Missile Site — for free.

Friday-Saturday 19-20 Victorian Christmas Keystone starts off the holiday season with a weekend full of festive events and a parade.

Keystone.

Monday 22 Club for Boys Christmas Tree Lot Opens for the season. Stop by to pick up your family’s tree! Rapid City.

Thursday 25 Happy Thanksgiving!

Friday 26 Native American Heritage Day Friday 26 Hill City Olde Tyme Christmas Kick off the holiday season with a parade at 6 p.m. and enjoy festivities all month long! Hill City.

Friday-Saturday 26-27 1880 Train Holiday Express Experience the magic as you take a one hour journey from Hill City to the North Pole! Drink hot cocoa and listen to a special story, and meet Santa! Hill City, times vary.

Friday-Saturday 26-27 Kris Kringle Craft Fair Get a head start on your holiday shopping at a city craft fair and bazaar.

Hill City.

Friday-Sunday 26-28 Christmas Nights of Light Storybook Island Walk through your favorite nursery rhyme characters covered in thousands of lights at the annual Christmas Nights of Light!

Entry is $3 per person with hot cocoa, apple cider, Eileen’s cookies also available for purchase.

Rapid City, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Saturday 27 Holiday Celebration & Winter Market This quintessential Rapid City celebration will help your family kick off the holiday season in style.

Ice skating, vendors, and tree lighting are only the beginning of the fun! Main Street Square, Rapid City, 2-6 p.m.

Saturday 27 Festival of Lights Parade After you’ve spent the day downtown, stick around for this Rapid City tradition!

Over 70 floats covered in festive lights take to downtown for one of the Black Hills’ favorite holiday traditions. Rapid City, 6 p.m.

The Slide d of Your Life!

Weekday Waves

SUN.

12PM

LUNCH With Koko

I-90 EXIT 61 • RAPID CITY, SD 57703 866.WATIKI.FUN • www.WATIKIWATERPARK.com

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reserve your space for winter

YOUR AD HERE 605.343.7684

SCHOOL YEAR PROGRAM

2021-2022 School Year Progam Begins August 30th Monday - Friday 1:30 - 8:00 pm

FREE Family Fun!

Transportation

Currently, The Club for Boys is providing transportation from the following schools: East Middle School South Middle School North Middle School Rapid Valley Elementary Valley View Elementary Robbinsdale Elementary Horace Mann Elementary *Parents must fill out our school transportation permission form before their child is allowed to be picked up from schools.

Discovery boxes, activity tables, gold panning station and dig box in the museum! Smart toys games, puzzles and science kits in our store!

FRIDAY NIGHT AFTER HOURS 12 and Older 8:00 -11:00 PM

Athletics | Prizes | Tournaments | Meals Brothers of Grilling | & More Open Tuesday-Saturday 9-5 pm 415 Fifth Avenue in Belle Fourche

Fall Festival Days Join us every Saturday in October!

10 AM to 5 PM

m

• Visit over 100 Friendly Farm Animals • Hand-feed the Goats, Sheep, Ducks and Fish • Explore the Corn Bin & Pumpkin Patch • Train, Pony, & Hay Wagon Rides Some activites require tickets.

Tickets are $3/each or buy 9 get 1 FREE.

$8.00 per person

Admission is good for all 5 Saturdays. Just show your reciept!

(605) 737-4815 • www.oldmacdonaldsfarmrc.com 10 Miles South Of Rapid City on HWY 16

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(605)343-3500 | theclubforboys.org 320 N 4th Street, Rapid City, SD 57701

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Fall is in the air at Dakota Party! From tableware and party accessories, we have your celebration covered.

Wall decor, foam apples, and so much more! Shop all things fall in store and online.

Styling and décor Timeless Wedding and Event Rental

Themed plates, napkins, utensils and centerpieces available.

Shop Dakota Party Online DakotaParty.com Rushmore Crossing 1165 Eglin St. Suite 100 Phone: 605-342-5204 BHPARENT BHPARENT 65 3