Seeing the dentist is getting a little more convenient for people in the Northern Hills. Orchard Meadows Family Dental & Denture Clinic is coming to Spearfish. Not only are we bringing the highest quality patient care in the region, but we’ll also make sure our patients have a great experience. TVs in each dental suite, massaging dental chairs, and warming blankets are all part of the experience. We’ll even give you a fresh baked cookie before you leave!
You can visit the dentist at a lot of clinics, but in our office you’ll feel like you’re visiting family. Call today to find out more about our brand-new Northern Hills office.
From left to right: Mason Hericks, DDS; Kimberlee, RDH; Mark Garner, DDS
Dean, Arneson, Dorothy Rosby, Erin Loder, Jennifer Knowles, Maggie Jean Lepa-Wince, Molly Barari, Tamie Hopp
Motherlode Photography
Margi Culhane 605-940-4724 | margi@michelscom.com
Cory Johnson 605-951-3567 | cory@michelscom.com
Kevin Culhane 605-661-8509 | kevin@michelscom.com
Hanna Michels 605-760-4269 | hanna@michelscom.com
Photography by Raven Lily Creative
On location at Besler’s Cadillac Ranch
THREE CHEERS for Michaela Horn
By Molly Barari, Photography by Motherlode Photography
Michaela Horn has no family roots to the Black Hills region, but she couldn’t imagine herself being anywhere else right now. As the Executive Director of the Belle Fourche Chamber of Commerce since May, her passion lies in making the community a happier, more productive, and more connected place.
“As the director, no day is ever the same, which I love,” shares Michaela. “I am also a very creative person and enjoy problem solving, and I get to use all of those skills every day.”
Michaela, 31, moved to the Black Hills in 2017 to assist with a graduate research project with an ecologist from Game, Fish and Parks. Day in and day out, Michaela would study the routines of Merriam turkeys. She would rise before the sun came up to locate the turkeys in different areas of the Hills.
“It was the perfect time to be quiet, to reflect and to connect with nature,” says Michaela, who studied Organismal Biology at Montana State University. As a result of her unique major, Michaela also did field work with a professor in Peru and worked on an exotic animal ranch in Texas.
“I wanted to be a veterinarian when I was younger,” shares Michaela. “I worked for an animal shelter and as a vet’s assistant in high school, but I passed out during surgery, so I knew I couldn’t. I still loved working with animals though.”
Michaela grew up in the desert in Casa Grande, Arizona, but has many family members in Montana, so she considers Montana her second home. When she was offered a position in South Dakota, she reflected on her childhood visits to Lemmon. Michaela is glad she came to explore the Black Hills, as she appreciates living here and met her husband, Darren, here—at the Days of ’76 Rodeo of all places.
“He was the only other one who wasn’t wearing cowboy boots, and he was very polite,” says Michaela with a grin. “We’ve been together for seven years, and we got married in October 2022 at Ranch A, a historic venue in Beulah, Wyoming. It’s a beautiful rustic cabin decorated with pheasant feathers with lodging on-site.”
While she’s been in the Black Hills, Michaela has also worked with preschool age children at Head Start. She started as a substitute
teacher and fell in love with it, so she went back to school and earned a minor in early childhood development from a community college in Oregon.
“My center focused on teaching social and emotional resilience,” says Michaela. “It was so fulfilling to watch my kids grow and develop through the challenges of COVID and beyond.”
In 2019, Michaela accepted a position as the Belle Fourche High School cheer coach. Growing up, she had done tap dance and ballet, and in high school, she was a cheerleader. Her background made her the perfect fit to work with the cheerleading team in Belle Fourche.
“I was 25 when I started working with them, so I didn’t feel much older than the kids,” says Michaela with a laugh. Now, she is exclusively
working with the competitive team, which involves sacrificing most Saturdays during cheer season from August through October. Michaela wouldn’t have it any other way.
As a cheer coach, Michaela cites one of her biggest accomplishments as helping to generate enthusiasm and spirit at games. “When I first started, there were a lot of people sitting down during the games. Now, thanks to the cheerleaders, they are on their feet and excited!”
Darren and Michaela got married at Ranch A in Beulah, Wyoming; Michaela’s mother gave her away at her wedding (left); German tradition of cutting the log to display how well the couple will work through life together
Under Michaela’s leadership, the team competed in the coed division for the first time and earned second place in the small division in 2020. In January 2024, a cheerleader traveled to London for the New Year’s parade, and in November 2020 and 2023, Belle Fourche cheerleaders traveled to New York City for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade.
She’s involved with the High School Cheer Coaches Association, serving as president 2023-2024 and Spirit of Cheer & Dance, two organizations where she volunteers her time and expertise.
Michaela and Darren don’t have kids, but they do have two dogs—Vito and Cedar— that are like children to them.
“A typical day is work, cheer practice, a club meeting, and then going home to hang out with Darren and the dogs,” she says.
When she has down time, Michaela enjoys crafting, sewing, painting, reading historical books, and writing. In fact, her goal is to eventually write a novel using her experiences as a cheer coach as the inspiration. The book is tentatively titled “Part-Time Coach.”
Michaela also spends time thrifting, turning other people’s trash into treasures. “When I was younger, we had to thrift. Now, it’s a hobby. I’m always looking for new ways to keep things out of the landfill, and I enjoy repurposing items into something new and usable.”
As a child, Michaela spent many summers in Montana being outdoors—camping, hiking and fishing with her grandfather on her mom’s side. She’s carried that love for the outdoors with her into adulthood.
In September 2023, Michaela—along with her mom, aunt and best friend—rafted 560 miles on the Yellowstone River, which is 692 miles total. The group slept on the river, bathed in the river, and had a lot of fun exploring along their 28-day route to North Dakota.
“There were four different personalities there on that 14-foot raft, and we all had our different strengths and roles,” says Michaela. “My best friend Virginia started the fire. I was the skipper, watching down river. My aunt was good at maps, and my mom was the rower. Our husbands would meet us at certain stops along the river to get us more food.”
Growing up, Michaela’s mom would always say, “It’s good to want. It builds character. “The Yellowstone trip was one of those situations where character was definitely built,” says Michaela with a laugh.
There are a few other memorable times in Michaela’s life where character was built. She remembers her 8th grade social studies teacher intervening in her life when she wasn’t hanging out with the best kids at school.
“He asked me, ‘What kind of person do you want to be?’ and that stuck with me,” says Michaela. “He helped steer me on the right path.”
At the end of the day, Michaela loves advocating for people, especially kids. “I like to go in and fix things so it’s better for everyone as a whole.”
Michaela doing dance as a child (left); cheering at Vista Grande High School in Casa Grande, AZ
New York with the first group of kids traveling for Macy’s thanksgiving day parade (left); 2 cheerleaders signed to cheer in college, with assistant coach Lacey Doyle (right)
MOMENTS IN Michaela’s LIFE
She will never forget when her best friend Egypt passed away in a car accident on her way to work. Michaela received a box of 12 pairs of Egypt’s shoes, and she decided to do a year in her best friend’s shoes—literally.
“I did things on our bucket list, wearing her shoes. I went to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, went to the Kentucky Derby, Yellowstone River Trip, Sturgis Rally and attempted to ride in a hot air balloon.
The experience taught me that I needed more balance in my life—and that we’re not only building our resume, but our obituary too.”
Photos clockwise: Michaela, husband Darren and their dog Cedar; Michaela working with exotic animals in Texas; Michaela’s bachelorette party on the Yellowstone River
Fun Facts About Michaela five
Michaela eats cereal with a fork to strain out the milk.
Her car is like a mobile survival kit—ready for anything life throws her way!
Michaela’s Signature dish is chicken noodle soup, made extra special with her grandfather’s recipe.
In college, Michaela worked as a guide for Yellowstone Zipline.
“All the things” is Michaela’s catchphrase. Her husband teases her because she always says “let’s go do all the things.”
History maker...Coach Michaela’s Belle Fourche High School Cheer Team is the first South Dakota co-ed cheer team to compete in the newly added co-ed category at State this year.
Seven of her Belle Fourche cheerleaders were chosen to perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.
The road to New York required a lot of work, and they had just one month to raise all the funds needed. Local businesses generously sponsored the athletes, and the Belle Fourche community rallied behind them, supporting through bake sales, water sales, and car washes. The overwhelming support demonstrated just how much the town stands behind these talented young athletes.
Old Tyme Hill City
Christmas
SPEND YOUR HOLIDAYS WITH US!
By Erin Loder
It’s a Winter Wonderland in Hill City. Not only do we have a beautiful wonderland vibe all through town when it snows, we are home to many activities going on during the Holiday season.
Our signature Old tyme Christmas theme brings the essence of an old-time Christmas with togetherness, simplicity, and celebrating the holiday’s traditions with love and warmth.
Hill City’s Old Tyme Christmas parade kicks off our bright season the day after Thanksgiving. This parade stirs a sense of wonder, nostalgia, and excitement, like stepping into a festive, larger-than-life holiday card for all ages. Our annual Old Tyme Christmas parade brings a comforting sense of togetherness and belonging, surrounded by family, friends, and community, all bundled up and sharing tradition and what the Holiday season brings. The Parade kicks off at 6PM. Before the parade take a stroll on Main street where the Alpine Inn will serve roasted chestnuts and cider–a Holiday scent that is distinct, and oh-so-cozy.
Before the parade young ones can enjoy snacks with Santa and Mrs. Claus and share their wish list as Santa makes his final marks for Naughty and Nice. This is held at the Hill City Center from 2-4PM. Don’t forget to stop by our Kris Kringle Craft fair too, and on Small Business Saturday! A great way to start checking off those Christmas Shopping lists for those you love.
After the parade, our Trees and Trains Grand Illumination Celebration takes place at the SD State Railroad Museum. Visitors can experience a room filled with more than 25 themed trees to make the museum sparkle and shine. Happening through November and December.
What’s that you hear? The sound of the Holiday Express is calling your name– a magical sight, capturing the wonder of the holidays with a nostalgic twist. Hop on board to visit Santa at the North Pole, then ride back to Hill City with him on the train! Holiday Express offers both adults only and first class options so there is Holiday Magic for everyone! This magical experience is one you don’t want to miss! Full schedule and details available at: 1880train.com.
Senior Breakfast at Hill City Center on Dec. 8, paired with a Senior Rummage and bake sale from 8-12 PM on Dec.7-8. Nothing is better than homemade desserts baked with love during the Holiday Season! Our Lions club hosts the most cheerful Holiday Bingo night on Dec. 21 from 5-8PM at the Hill City Center.
Hill City Offers a wide range of unique stores that stay open during our Old Tyme Christmas season…this year we invite you to join us for Hill City’s First Holiday Town Nights beginning Nov. 27 and continuing every Wednesday leading up to Christmas. Shop, eat, and be entered into drawings for prizes throughout the season. Hill City invites you to come and shop, enjoy the Holiday Cheer, and support our many local businesses and enjoy all the Holiday warm, and cozy vibes Hill City will bring to you and yours.
December Events
DAILY THROUGH DEC. 29
HOLIDAY EXPRESS 1880 TRAIN LIMITED FIRST CLASS SEATS
ADULT ONLY OPTIONS
SEE SCHEDULE 1880TRAIN.COM
DAILY THROUGH DEC. 29
TREES & TRAIN EXHIBIT
SD RAILROAD MUSEUM
(SAME DAYS AS TRAIN SCHEDULE)
DEC. 4, 11 & 18
HOLIDAY TOWN NIGHTS
MAIN STREET
DEC. 7
SENIOR BREAKFAST
DEC. 7 & 8
SENIOR RUMMAGE + BAKE SALE
HILL CITY CENTER - 8AM - 12PM
DEC. 15
OLD TYME CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION SD RAILROAD MUSEUM - 1PM - 3PM
DEC. 21
LIONS CLUB CHRISTMAS BIGO
HILL CITY CENTER - 5PM - 8PM
For the Person on Your Gift List Who Has EVERYTHING
By Dorothy Rosby
Wondering what to get that hard-to-buyfor person on your gift list? How about a Gulfstream jet? Tom Cruise once gave his now ex-wife Katie Holmes one of those and it only set him back $20 million. I’m not sure what she did with it after their divorce. I hope not what a lot of other people do with an expensive gift they got from an ex—pawn it.
Speaking of flying, here’s another great idea. Popstar Katy Perry surprised her now former husband Russell Brand with tickets for the two of them aboard the Virgin Galactic spaceship for only $200,000. It just goes to show you, extravagant gifts don’t necessarily improve your relationship. Perry and Brand broke up before take-off. Maybe they were fighting over who’d get to sit by the window.
Here on earth but still a little out of this world, Angelina Jolie gave Brad Pitt a California waterfall one Christmas. I’m not sure how much it cost her, but I guess if you have to ask you can’t afford it.
These are just a few of the terrific ideas I found while surfing the net looking for gifts for those people on my list who have everything. In the end, I didn’t buy anything because I believe in shopping locally.
If you’re looking for something a little smaller for your loved one, how about the Graff Diamonds Hallucination watch for the clock-stopping price of just $55 million? Heart stopping too.
But it would be less expensive and equally as impressive if they just checked the time on their brand new Goldvish Le Million cellphone with diamondencrusted body. At only $1 million, it’s also more affordable than an island, a waterfall or a Gulfstream jet. Plus it’s easier to wrap.
Of course, you can go cheaper still, with cheaper being a relative term. The VIPN Black Diamond iPhone 5 is just $300,000 and the Vertu Signature V is a measly $87,350.00. These may be better options for the person on your gift list who misplaces their cellphone often. Me for example.
That’s exactly why I don’t want my husband to get me one of those for Christmas. I’m afraid I’ll run it through the washer. Well that and also because he’d have to cash in our retirement savings and sell our house and everything in it to do it.
Same goes for the Atelier Des Ors Larmes du Desert perfume. It’s just $125,240 for 3.4 ounces. Honey, you shouldn’t have. You really, really shouldn’t have. But it’s the perfect gift for that special someone on your list who loves the smell of money.
And let’s not forget the kiddos on your list. What little one wouldn’t love the Kid’s Swarovski Crystal Embellished Maserati Ghibli for just $32,000? It’s never too early to start instilling the wholesome lifetime habits of driving safely, going in style and squandering money.
But if you’re worried about your children careening around the driveway in a miniMaserati, consider the pumpkin shaped La Belle Au Bois Dormant Coach. It’s just like the one Cinderella’s fairy godmother conjured up for her, only more expensive at $75,000. And it just sits there safely—unless you spring for the horses too.
And finally, let’s not forget your pampered pooch. Sure, your dog eats anything he finds on the floor or in the road ditch. But that doesn’t mean he wouldn’t prefer to eat it out of the $4,800 Mastercraft Pet Bowl.
Or give your dog the Gucci GG Waste Bag Holder for just $420. Now that I think about it, this might be more for you than for your pet. After all you’d be the one picking up poo in style. If you’re lucky, maybe someone will give you the waste bag holder for Christmas.
I don’t have a dog, but if I did, I’d want him to have the La Jeune Tulipe Diamond Dog Collar for just $150,000. My cat has managed to slip every collar we’ve ever tried to put on him, so I don’t intend to buy him a fancy new one. I just hate spending $150,000 on someone who doesn’t appreciate the gesture.
Dorothy Rosby plans to buy socks for everyone on her gift list. They’re more practical than a jet or a diamond-encrusted cellphone and she can pick them up locally.
LOCAL EXPERTS IN:
Locally owned since 1968
Discover Unique Holiday Gifts at the Dahl Artist’s Market
By Maggie Jean Lepa-Wince Rapid City Arts Council Staff
As the holiday season approaches, the Dahl Arts Center is the perfect destination to find distinctive, locally crafted gifts for friends, family, and loved ones.
The Dahl Artists’ Market is brimming with a wide selection of treasures, open from 10am-5pm, Monday through Saturday. Each item has a unique story to share—whether it’s a beautifully designed greeting card featuring original artwork by local artists or exquisite handmade jewelry that reflects the spirit of the Black Hills. Our market has something special for everyone.
You’ll also find a variety of books by local authors and illustrators, stickers, prints, and original work by professional artists. Explore items created by talented artisans in the Black Hills and the surrounding area, each embodying creativity and craftsmanship.
Be sure to mark your calendars for December 7th, when the Black Hills Indian Artists Market is at the Dahl. This unique event celebrates the work of Indigenous artists and brings together a fantastic array of art, jewelry, and fashion. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support indigenous artists, find gifts for loved ones, and get inspired to create.
We’ve always believed that dining should be a social occasion, a time when friends, family, and coworkers can enjoy great conversation over a great meal.
We believe in supporting our local artisans and staying connected to our Black Hills community. At a time when the area is growing and expanding, we’re striving to keep the flavor of the region alive.
Inspired by the history of this area, both the aesthetics of the building and the diversity of the menu are true to our local roots, something no nationwide franchise can duplicate. Certainly, there are other steakhouses out there, but none like ours.
CATCHING CANCER EARLY WITH GENETIC TESTING
By Jennifer Knowles, CNP
My name is Jennifer Knowles, I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner, and I was recently certified in cancer genetic risk assessment through the City of Hope, which boasts some of the top geneticists and genetic counselors in the nation. I am also certified in cancer genetic risk assessment through the National Consortium of Breast Centers and I am proud to serve the Black Hills community at the Cancer Genetics and Prevention Clinic at Monument Health Cancer Care Institute.
GENETIC RISK
The most well-known risk factors for cancer are longterm environmental exposures to harmful pollutants, such as asbestos or radon, and lifestyle factors, which include smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, and exercise. However, you may not be aware that genetics play a significant role in your risk of developing cancer.
Knowledge of hereditary cancer risk is a powerful tool to empower you to be able to do early or more frequent screenings. Knowledge of hereditary cancer risk may also motivate you to make lifestyle changes to help reduce cancer risk.
MY TESTING STORY
Having already been a nurse at Monument Health Rapid City Hospital for five years, I was inspired to pursue genetics partly because of my own experience with genetic counseling and testing. I have a history of colon cancer in my family, so I went in for an early colonoscopy at age 37. It was suggested that I get genetic testing for Lynch Syndrome, a hereditary cancer syndrome that increases the risk for colon cancer and many other types of cancers. Even though my genetic test was negative, I still have a strong family history of colon cancer, so my family members and I use that knowledge to get the screenings that are right for us.
However, genetic testing can be beneficial for anyone interested in knowing as much information as possible about their risk of developing cancer and the knowledge to potentially manage their cancer risk. One of the best things patients can do is start these conversations with their primary care provider, someone who knows your health care history and who can guide your health care decisions.
Experts estimate that 5-10% of breast cancer is genetic and we think that maybe 5 to 10% of colon cancers are hereditary. There are also related cancers, which are associated with many different hereditary cancer syndromes. The most well-known hereditary cancer
syndrome is probably hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC), which is related to gene mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 (BReast CAncer) genes. Mutations in these genes can increase the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer and melanoma. There’s also Lynch syndrome, which isn’t as well-known but is more common. Lynch syndrome increases the risk for colon cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, some upper gastrointestinal cancers and other possible cancers. So if a family has members afflicted with those related cancers, then they should undergo genetic evaluation and possible testing.
YOUR FAMILY TREE
When you visit the Cancer Genetics and Prevention Clinic, knowing as much of your extended family cancer history as possible is helpful. Put simply, everybody has two copies of a given gene: one from your mom, and one from your dad. So every first-degree relative would have a 50% chance of having a gene mutation that their parents had. Examining family history helps identify patterns of inheritance and related cancers on each side of the family.
If the family history is unknown or incomplete, it’s harder to interpret genetic risk. But that can be a good reason to have genetic testing because sometimes it’s the only way we can find out that information.
If the person decides they’re not interested in genetic testing, I make recommendations based on their family history and their other risk factors on what type of cancer screenings they should be getting.
TYPES OF TESTING
Testing for hereditary cancer risk is typically done through a multi-gene panel test. This is a standard test that looks for harmful mutations or variants in multiple genes at once. Which genes are tested is usually dependent on a person’s family history, personal history, and preferences. The test is performed by collecting a blood or saliva sample, which is then sent to the lab for analysis. The results usually take 1-3 weeks.
RESULTS AND NEXT STEPS
If somebody is positive for a genetic mutation that puts them at increased risk for cancer, I make recommendations and referrals for them to go see specialists, to get extra screenings or potential procedures or medications. I then see them once a year afterward, to make sure that they are following through and getting the care they need to keep them healthy. I also give them a letter for their family members, which contains information about the mutation, what kind of cancers are associated with it, how to get tested, and what their risk might be. The results can be life-changing. If somebody has a BRCA1 mutation, and if we send them to a breast surgeon and they have a prophylactic mastectomy, then we’ve potentially decreased their risk of getting cancer by up to 90%. And it’s the same for someone at increased risk for colon cancer. If we send them to a gastroenterologist and they start getting them on a more frequent colonoscopy regimen, then we could potentially prevent them from getting colon cancer.
Of course, it’s a very personal thing to be made aware of your risk for cancer. Some people feel that it might cause them a lot of anxiety to find out. I always ask, “How would you feel if we
found out that you were at increased risk for a whole different type of cancer than what you actually came in here for? Would you even want to know?” Everybody has a little bit of a fear of cancer but it can be very helpful and empowering for people to know they are doing everything they can to be proactive about staying healthy.”
Genetic technology is still in its relative infancy and it is my goal to stay on top of new developments. I am currently working on becoming an Advanced Clinical Genomics Nurse which will further my understanding and skills to serve patients and address their concerns about genetic cancer.
To learn more about the Cancer Genetics and Prevention Clinic, visit moument.health/cancergenetics.
GIFTof peace of mind
By Tamie Hopp and Deann Arneson
Thanks to trailblazing parents more than six decades ago, Black Hills Works is an industry leader in providing services and supports to adults with disabilities today. The story of the founding of Black Hills Works, however, is more than a history lesson. It’s a story of families seeing a bright future for their loved ones with disabilities, a future where they are secure, cared for, and valued. This vision is as true today as it was back in 1958.
For Deann Arneson and her son, Harry, Black Hills Works means the world. At the Black Hills Works Foundation’s annual gala, Deann shared what it means to have peace of mind about a secure future for Harry. Here are excerpts of what she shared, in her own words:
Black Hills Works is Harry’s world. It is his life, his future, a safe place to continue growing on the inside, and for him to be comfortable with others supporting him more than myself.
After two years of waiting, Harry moved into his own apartment without a roommate and he has significantly grown on the inside, because the right housing is paramount to all of us. Thank you, donors, for giving Harry the right housing!
Harry’s also has job now working for Xanterra at Mt. Rushmore. I had my doubts, but he’s doing great. He comes home with a wallet full of tips, and loves going to work. Thank you, Black Hills Works, for knowing Harry’s work and social skills better than I do!
Harry has also grown quite comfortable in others supporting him. He went to a dentist appointment, a doctor’s appointment, brought up a health issue that I had neglected to address, and went to a job interview, all without Mama knowing!
And that is success! Just what I want!
So, what does Black Hills works mean to me?
To me – security and peace knowing that Black Hills Works has all the supports and resources Harry needs, now and when I’m no longer there. I work in a funeral home so I have given much thought to Harry’s life after I’m not here and the lack of familial supports he will have.
Recently, in my work capacity, I received a call to go to one of the Black Hills Works’ homes and pick up Mary, who had recently passed away.
At age 72, Mary did not have any family. On my way to pick her up, I was so sad about this and kept thinking how awful her life must have been.
How far from the truth my thinking was!
The sincere compassion of Mary’s staff affected me in a way I could not contain. I was overwhelmed to tears because of the care and kindness displayed by her staff.
They had prepared Mary’s housemates and kept them busy elsewhere. They had items laid out to be placed with her and her favorite dress and necklace ready to go. Mary was surrounded by her staff, in tears, because of their grief and loss.
This experience gave me great pause. I realized Black Hills Works staff weren’t just staff. I witnessed that Mary’s life didn’t quit when her birth family no longer existed. It wasn’t poor Mary; it was rich Mary. The staff not only knew Mary, they loved her – they were her family. A family who gave her a rich, full life. A life like I want for Harry.
It was a part of Black Hills Works I had never seen before, and I knew then what to do.
Instead of squirreling away money for Harry that he would outlast, I will instead designate the Black Hills Works Foundation as a beneficiary in my will. If I can trust Black Hills Works with Harry, I can trust them with my money. It’s my prayer that my legacy will be working through them to support people for years after I am gone.
It’s the least I can do. After all, they gave me peace of mind about Harry’s future, and that is a priceless gift. They also opened my eyes to more than just Harry. They have afforded me an opportunity to make a difference! They’ve allowed me peace and security to know that I
can help with all those supports and resources needed to help everyone, with or without me here.
Black Hills Works refers to their participants as “people supported.”
After what I’ve witnessed, I make a motion they change it to “people loved.”
Why am I sharing all this?
2 Corinthians 9:2 reads, “For I know your eagerness to help and it is my prayer that my enthusiasm and my testimony of what I’ve witnessed will stir you to action as well, in whatever capacity you can.”
Thank you, Black Hills Works, for loving
Deann Arneson
Deann’s heartfelt gratitude for having the peace of mind that her son’s future is secure, and that he will be embraced by a Black Hills Works family who love him, is only possible thanks to an incredibly generous community of supporters.
If their story inspires you, consider donating to Black Hills Works, or including Black Hills Works as part of your estate plan. You will join six decades of donors who believe that people with disabilities make our community better when given the support they need to be our good neighbors, valued friends, productive workers, respected leaders, and caring volunteers.
Give today at blackhillsworks.org/donate or contact Tamie at thopp@bhws.com to learn how you can leave your legacy.
Thank you for making YOUR difference today!
www.blackhillsworks.org
Upcoming Changes in Medicare Plans in 2025 and the Benefits of Consulting a Licensed Sales Agent
Not affiliated with the U. S. government or federal Medicare program.
CFR 42 422.2267( e) (41) 423.2267 ( e)(41) • 2024 TPMO Disclaimer- For TPMOs that sell ALL carriers (marketing & communications)- Use on all material published after 9/30/23 • (i)Used by any TPMO, as defined under § 422.2260, that sells for all MA plans on behalf of more than one MA organization in a given service area. (ii) Verbally conveyed within the first minute of a sales call. (iii) Electronically conveyed when communicating with a beneficiary through email, online chat, or other electronic means of communication. (iv) Prominently displayed on TPMO websites. (v) Included in any marketing materials, including print materials and television advertisements, developed, used or distributed by the TPMO. • “Currently we represent [insert number of organizations] organizations which offer [insert number of plans] products in your area. You can always contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) for help with plan choices.” • 2024 TPMO Disclaimer- For TPMOs that DOES NOT sell ALL carriers (marketing & communications)- Use on all material published after 9/30/23 • (i)Used by any TPMO, as defined under § 422.2260, that DOES NOT sell for all MA plans on behalf of more than one MA organization in a given service area. (ii) Verbally conveyed within the first minute of a sales call. (iii) Electronically conveyed when communicating with a beneficiary through email, online chat, or other electronic means of communication. (iv) Prominently displayed on TPMO websites. (v) Included in any marketing materials, including print materials and television advertisements, developed, used or distributed by the TPMO. •“We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [insert number of organizations] organizations which offer [insert number of plans] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.”
As we approach 2025, significant changes are set to reshape Medicare for beneficiaries. These adjustments aim to enhance coverage, improve access to care, and simplify the enrollment process, making it essential for current and future enrollees to stay informed. Consulting a licensed sales agent from South Dakota Senior Insurance Agency can help navigate these changes and ensure beneficiaries choose the best plans for their needs.
Key Changes in Medicare Plans for 2025
1. Expanded Benefits: Medicare will likely broaden its coverage of preventive services, such as screenings and wellness visits, to promote early detection of health issues and reduce overall healthcare costs.
2. Enhanced Prescription Drug Coverage: Anticipated changes may lead to more comprehensive prescription drug benefits, lowering out-of-pocket costs and increasing the number of covered medications for beneficiaries.
3. Telehealth Integration: The integration of telehealth services is expected to expand, allowing beneficiaries easier access to virtual consultations with healthcare providers, which is particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.
4. Simplified Enrollment Process: Medicare aims to streamline the enrollment experience, providing clearer resources to help beneficiaries understand their options and deadlines, reducing confusion.
5. Focus on Chronic Disease Management: Programs targeting chronic disease management are likely to expand, offering personalized care plans, health coaching, and better access to specialists, ultimately improving health outcomes.
6. Changes to Medigap Policies: New regulations may standardize Medigap policies, making them easier to understand and potentially lowering premiums for beneficiaries.
The Benefits of Consulting a Licensed Sales Agent
As Medicare evolves, it can become challenging for beneficiaries to keep up with changes and understand their options. This is where the knowledge of a licensed sales agent becomes invaluable.
1. Personalized Guidance: Agents provide tailored recommendations based on individual health needs and financial situations, ensuring beneficiaries choose the right plan.
2. Knowledge: Licensed agents possess indepth knowledge of Medicare, helping clarify complex terms and conditions that may confuse beneficiaries.
Call South Dakota Senior Insurance Agency today!
3. Access to Multiple Plans: Unlike agents tied to one insurer, licensed agents offer a variety of plans, allowing beneficiaries to compare options for the best fit.
4. Ongoing Support: Agents can assist with plan reevaluations during open enrollment and help navigate any changes throughout the year.
5. Advocacy: In disputes or questions regarding claims, agents act as advocates, ensuring beneficiaries receive the care and coverage they deserve.
As Medicare plans undergo significant changes in 2025, staying informed is crucial for beneficiaries. With the right guidance, beneficiaries can ensure they are maximizing their Medicare plan benefits and securing the best possible care for themselves and their families.
The team of licensed agents at South Dakota Senior Insurance Agency has over 46 years of Medicare Plan experience! You can visit them at their office on Jackson Boulevard in Rapid City, or make arrangements for them to come to you. Check out their 5 star review rating on Google!
End-of-Year Giving
Make an Impact with WDNBH
As the holiday season approaches, we invite you to join us in building a future where inclusion is the norm and every workplace celebrates diversity. Your generous donations to WDNBH directly support programming, business outreach, workplace consultations, disability awareness workshops, and vocational training for businesses across the Black Hills region.
With your help, we aim to raise $40,000 to fund new program development and organizational support. These funds will enable us to expand resources for employers, enhance our educational offerings, and equip businesses with tools to embrace disability-inclusive practices.
WDNBH Tech Talk: Empowering Accessibility Through Innovation
One program your donations will help support is Tech Talk, an exciting new initiative from the Workplace Disability Network of the Black Hills (WDNBH). This vlog is dedicated to showcasing assistive technologies that empower individuals with disabilities in the workplace. Through engaging demos and discussions, Tech Talk highlights tools and solutions that break barriers, promote independence, and enhance workplace productivity. From screen readers and adaptive keyboards to hearing devices and mobility aids, this initiative provides invaluable insights for employers and individuals alike.
By introducing these technologies, WDNBH continues to fulfill its mission of fostering inclusive workplaces where every individual has the opportunity to succeed. Check out Tech Talk episodes on our newly launched YouTube channel, and follow us on Instagram for updates, tips, and behind-the-scenes content. Together, we’re redefining what’s possible in the workplace.
Whether you give $20 or $2,000, your contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant difference. Donations are quick and secure through our new online giving page, and every dollar brings us closer to a world where individuals of all abilities can thrive. Your support is invaluable, and we couldn’t do it without you.
This season, let’s make inclusion part of our shared legacy. Visit our website at www.wdnbh.org to give today and join us in our collective effort. Together, we’re creating a better bottom line for everyone.
www.wdnbh.org/donate
Experience breathtaking views right within Hill City, city limits! This beautiful zero-entry home is nestled in the stunning Black Hills, featuring expansive all-around windows with electronic shades that invite natural light into every room. The main floor offers a spacious three-car garage, a cozy gas fireplace, and a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops and a gas stove. The master suite includes an ensuite full bath, alongside a convenient half bath and main-level laundry. Upstairs, you’ll find two additional bedrooms sharing a full bath, all overlooking the inviting lower level. Step out onto the wrap-around covered deck and soak in the unparalleled views. Just minutes from Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, and scenic biking trails, this property is a true paradise waiting to be discovered! Listed by Bobbi Ternes of Engel & Völkers Black Hills
