Seeing the dentist is a little more convenient for people in the Northern Hills -Orchard Meadows Family Dental & Denture Clinic is now open in Spearfish. Not only are we offering the highest quality patient care in the region, we’re also making 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 cookies 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 and schedule your next dentist appointment in our brandnew Northern Hills office.
From left to right: Kimberlee, RDH; Mark Garner, DDS; Mason Hericks, DDS
By Lauren Johnson; Photography by M Photography
Every month Black Hills Lifestyle showcases local human interest stories along with beauty, fashion, family, home, career, health and nutrition information all with beautiful photography. Black Hills Lifestyle also feature businesses, men and women in the Black Hills region. Want to subscribe to Black Hills Lifestyle and receive a copy in your mailbox every month? One year subscription is only $40.
Kevin Culhane 605-661-8509 | kevin@michelscom.com SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR
Stace Osthus 605-261-0437 | stace@michelscom.com
CHIEF OF OPERATIONS
Hanna Michels 605-760-4269 | hanna@michelscom.com
Our Community’s BIGGEST Art Gallery
By Demcie Mesteth-Fisher Rapid City Arts Council Staff
Art Alley, established in 2003, is a pillar of Rapid City’s artist community. Artists from near and far come to share their work and talents with the community. Colorful and swooping graffiti
decades the alley is now covered in layer upon layer of talent and thousands of hours of work and is a hub for art lovers and artists from across the country.
Art Alley continues to be a family friendly and free community gallery that is home to dozens of artists across the country. Anyone can apply for a permit to paint in Art Alley and contribute to a lasting and honored tradition of downtown Rapid City. Today the Rapid City Arts Council would like to invite the
meets meticulous attention to detail in our city’s most fluid art gallery. Art Alley is a place where you can get lost in the art, and also found.
In the beginning Art Alley was a community gallery with canvases hung on the historic brick walls, and in 2016 Art Alley moved to a permitting system which is managed by the Rapid City Arts Council. Today, artists paint directly on the walls in spray paint and acrylics. Now, after almost two
community to give back to Art Alley by coming out and volunteering for Art Alley Clean Up Day on Saturday May 31st from 9am to 2pm.
If you would like to paint in Art Alley, visit artalleyrc. com to apply for an online permit, or visit the Education Department at the Dahl Arts Center. Come prepared with your driver’s license and an idea of what you would like to paint in the alley. Children under eighteen years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
Help us keep our thriving arts community alive and well by participating in Art Alley Clean Up Day. We hope to see you there!
Compassionate Care Helps People Live Safely at Home
By Tanya Manus
There’s nothing like the comfort of home as people get older or recover from an illness or injury. Visiting Angels cares for individuals who need extra support to remain safe and healthy at home.
Jessica Palmer co-owns a Visiting Angels franchise in Rapid City that
opened Jan. 2. Visiting Angels serves all of the Black Hills and western South Dakota as far east as Wall.
Jessica brings 27 years of experience as a dental hygienist, medic, certified nurse assistant and business consultant to her new role with Visiting Angels. Visiting Angels is a national company Jessica’s family has used and had a great experience with, she said.
Visiting Angels primarily serves people 60 and older, though it can provide non-medical assistance to people of all ages who are recovering from illness, injuries or surgery.
“I saw a great need for senior care in their homes because we don’t have a lot of nursing home facilities, plus most people want to stay in their homes,” Jessica said. “I wanted to be here for our senior community and veterans.
There’s a huge need for in-home care, especially outside of Rapid City.”
“We’re coming in and helping to be a support and give them a good quality of life,” Jessica said. “If someone
recently had surgery but they don’t have a significant other or family in the area to assist them during that rehabilitation time, we can go in and help provide non-medical assistance (such as housekeeping and taking care of pets).”
going to the grocery store, going to doctor’s appointments, having someone with them at the doctor’s appointment to be an extra set of eyes and ears,” she said. “Sometimes they just want to go Hobby Lobby and walk around with their walkers or in their wheelchairs, just to see things and be out in public.”
Visiting Angels provide non-medical assistance to people of all ages who are recovering from illness, injuries or surgery.
For new mothers, Visiting Angels offers postpartum help to ease the stress of caring for an infant, Jessica said.
Some clients need assistance with meal preparation or projects. “A lot of seniors used to love to cook and they physically can’t do a lot of things like opening bottles or chopping vegetables. Our Angels will be a sous chef for our clients. It’s really fun. We learn so much about our clients and hear their amazing (life) stories,” Jessica said.
“The majority of our clients don’t have family in place and they just need assistance with the performing activities of daily living … laundry,
Some clients’ greatest need is social interaction. Visiting Angels takes clients on walks, help with gardening, or take clients to local senior centers for activities such as bingo and mah jongg, for example.
Visiting Angels also offers respite care to provide a break for spouses or children who are primary caregivers.
“Our Angels are there for several hours a day multiple times a week, and they become an extension of that client’s family and develop relationships,” she said. “It’s not just a maid service or a nurse. They are there for emotional and mental support for our clients.”
Discover how Visiting Angels can offer personalized and compassionate care services today.
• Alzheimer’s Care
• Companion Care
• Dementia Care
• End-of-Life Care
• Fall Prevention Care
• Palliative Care
• Personal Care
• Respite Care
• Transitional Care
Visiting Angels Rapid City
1301 W Omaha Street, Suite 201 Rapid City, SD 57701 (605) 600-1812 • visitingangels.com
Back Row (L to R): Wendy, Kimmi, Erica, Shannon; Front: Melissa (Director of Operations), Jessica (Executive Director/Owner), Maddox (Care Coordinator)
Stephanie Crago
QUEEN
for a day our
Sponsored by
The Spearfish Senior Center sparkled with celebration as its beloved director, Stephanie Crago, was honored as this year’s Black Hills Lifestyle Magazine Queen for a Day! Nominated by friends, community members, and grateful seniors, Stephanie was recognized for her exceptional leadership and the generous heart she brings to everything she does.
As the Executive Director, Stephanie’s role goes far beyond daily operations. She plans, facilitates, and oversees a wide array of activities, day trips, and special events designed to keep seniors active, connected, and thriving. And we are told she does it all with professionalism and compassion.
Since taking the helm in 2017, Stephanie has not only increased the number of programs and participants, but also enriched the center with a welcoming, joyful energy that makes everyone feel at home.
“I am so honored to have been chosen,” said Crago. “There are so many more deserving of this-I am truly surprised and honored. “
From a young age, Stephanie has been immersed in the care and love of senior citizens.” Stephanie’s mother was one of the first in-home assisted living
providers in the state. Having 5-6 senior adults living in her home seemed normal to Stephanie.
Born and raised in Spearfish, Stephanie’s career began in high school as a certified nursing assistant, then on to Black Hills State University where she double majored in Sociology and human Services-Gerontology.
When the opportunity at the Center opened up Stephanie felt she might be a good fit-and according to those she serves-she was a very good fit. One longtime member shares, “Stephanie makes sure every person who walks through these doors feels valued. She listens, she cares, and she makes things happen.”
In addition to her professional life, Stephanie is married to Justin Crago and has two children (daughter, Remi, was 2024 Jr Miss Days of ‘76 Rodeo). She is active in 4-H, teaching youth leadership and Hippology, and coaching a “Horse Quiz Bowl” team.
“I love this community and I love what I do, ” she said. “A motto I like to live by is ‘Do what you can, with what you have wherever you’re at. It’s a privilege to serve this community and be part of so many lives. I’m just so honored by this.”
Stephanie grew up in Spearfish and attended Black Hills State University. She is married to Justin Crago and has two children (daughter, Remi, was 2024 Jr Miss Days of ‘76 Rodeo). She is active in 4-H, teaching youth leadership and Hippology, and coaching a “Horse Quiz Bowl” team. As the Spearfish Senior Citizens Center (some 500 members) Director, Stephanie exhibits her generous heart with professional management of the Center’s members and activities. She has brought more daily activities and more rentals to the center, while providing personal attention to each member. She always juggles these multiple tasks with a smile.
Nominated by Ginger Childers President, Spearfish Senior Citizens Center
When to Keep Your Mouth and Other Lessons of Motherhood
By Dorothy Rosby
Shortly after my son was born, a childless friend asked me what I’d learned from being a new mother that I wouldn’t have learned if I’d never had a child. I was still at the “what just happened” stage of motherhood, so I had to think about it. But I finally said I thought motherhood was teaching me patience. She looked puzzled and said, “No it’s not.” Then she laughed. I laughed too, but not as enthusiastically.
My son grew up and left home long ago, and I still haven’t learned patience. But I did learn a few things being a mom. And in honor of Mother’s Day I’m going to share some of my lessons with you.
By the time he was a toddler, I’d learned how to pick the lock on our bathroom door.
I’d learned the location of every public restroom within 25 miles of our home. And I’d learned that a ketchup packet gets approximately five feet of coverage in a fastfood restaurant if it’s stomped on hard enough.
By the time he was in middle school, I’d learned that buying a child a hamster won’t keep him from wanting a dog. And that if you give a child an allowance, you can borrow money from him later. And that I should keep a list of all the children I
purchased cookies, popcorn and other fundraising products from because their parents were excellent prospects when my son had something to sell.
And by the time he was a teenager, I’d learned that I needed to buy two gallons of milk every time I went to the grocery store. And that buying a child a canary will not keep him from wanting a dog either. And that of all the professions that require patience and diplomacy, driver’s education teacher is right up there with daycare provider and hostage negotiator.
I bet my childless friend didn’t know any of those things. Granted she didn’t need to. And now that my son is grown, I don’t need to know any of them either. But some of the lessons I learned continue to be useful. For example, motherhood taught me to be adaptable. Before I became a mom, I kept a very clean house. Well…kind of a clean house. By the time my son was in first grade, I could step over a pile of rubbish on the floor without so much as a glance back. He’s now 28 and I’m proud to say I still can. Some people might say I’ve lowered my standards. I say I’ve adapted.
Motherhood taught me to be prepared for anything. During her child-rearing years, a woman’s handbag expands like a maternal belly. That’s because she has to be prepared to handle medical and childcare emergencies at a moment’s notice as well as entertain all the kids in the carpool. My purse was always well-stocked with toys, crayons, paper, drinks, snacks, wipes and an amazing stainremoving pen. I never carried much cash, but I always had Hot Wheels and little green army men. All these years later, my purse is still large enough to check when I fly. Of course, I carry different things in it nowadays. I haven’t needed crayons or Hot Wheels in many years but I never go anywhere without a stainremoving pen.
Motherhood taught me to worry less. Not really. But it did teach me to worry effectively. I worried about a lot of things
when my son was growing up and ta-da! None of them happened. See. It worked. On the other hand, a few things I didn’t have the foresight to worry about did happen. Clearly I still need practice so I continue to work on this skill a little each day.
And finally, motherhood taught me to keep my mouth shut. Or at least, it taught me that sometimes it would be best if I did. From the first time they spit baby food back in our faces, our children are demonstrating that they have minds of their own. But somehow some of us—me—still think they’ll grow up to see and do things our way because, well, we’re right.
My own mother raised 10 children. You may not believe this, but she never once criticized any of her grown children even though some of them gave her plenty to criticize. Not me, but some of them. I didn’t realize how hard that must have been until I saw my son’s first apartment after he left home. It was all I could do not to say, “I hope you’re not planning to get your deposit back.” I’m proud to say I kept my mouth shut and our visit was much happier because of it.
Dorothy Rosby remained in the “what just happened” stage of motherhood until her son was in fifth grade.
We’re bursting with gratitude as we celebrate this incredible milestone with you—our amazing readers and partners. Since 2016, we’ve shared laughter, tears, and powerful moments that have shaped Black Hills Lifestyle magazine into what it is today. Your unwavering support and enthusiasm have fueled our journey, and we couldn’t have done it without you!
This anniversary is more than just a number, it’s a celebration of a vibrant, caring community that continues to inspire us every single day. Through the stories of strong, passionate men and women, we’ve built connections, sparked conversations, and empowered hopeful dreams.
As we look back and move frward, we’re filled with excitement and gratitude. Thank you for being part of this incredible ride—cheers to nine unforgettable years and to all the amazing moments still to come!
Cheers to the next year and the stories to come!
Whether it’s rubber or speed you need ...
Tyrrell Tires & Speed Center wants to be Rapid City’s reliable source for tires and more, where men and women will consistently receive excellent service.
“We want people to have a great experience and we want to build their trust. Our goal is that they refer everyone they know to us because they had such a great experience,” said co-owner Autumn Garcia.
Business co-owner and founder Scott Tyrrell first opened Tyrrell Tires in 2012. In addition, he also purchased the oldest speed shop in South Dakota which now has grown into Tyrrell Tires & Speed Center, located at 105 N Cambell Street.
“We want to EDUCATE WOMEN about their vehicles”
~ Autumn Garcia
Scott brings 20+ years of experience to his customers, including several years spent managing a Goodyear Tire store in Florida.
“Scott is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to customizing vehicles. We have a large inventory of after-market wheels in our showroom. We do a lot of leveling and lift kits to go with wheel and tire packages,” Autumn said.
Their staff includes two lube technicians, a salesman, and two mechanics. During business hours, Tyrrell Tires & Speed Center offers service calls if someone needs help with a flat tire or car problem and can’t get to the shop.
“We do light automotive repairs — oil changes, brakes, front end work like ball joints and suspension work. I don’t think a lot of people know we do that,” Autumn said.
Adding the Speed Center was a personal passion for Scott, who races an IMCA A-modified and a Wissota B-modified dirt track cars. The Speed Center sells hot rod parts, dirt track race car parts, tires for dirt track cars, race car fuel and more.
“Scott thought there was going to be quite a few crossover customers,” Autumn said. “You’d get guys who race to come buy race car parts and fuel, that may also need trailer tires or tires for their other vehicles.”
The automotive business runs in the family for both Scott and Autumn, who are engaged as well as being business partners.
“I’ve been around vehicles my whole life and all of our relatives are in the automotive business one way or another. We’re all involved,” Autumn said.
Tyrrell Tires & Speed Center strives for excellent products and customer service.
Autumn especially sets a welcoming tone for women, who often may feel ignored or intimidated at automotive businesses.
THE TIRE PROS: Scott Tyrrell
Proud Partner & Owner Autumn Garcia
Certified Female-Friendly Tread-Technician
“If you ever go to an auto parts store or go to purchase a vehicle and it’s a man talking to you, they talk to you like you have no idea what you are doing. I’ve always gotten that my whole life,” Autumn said. “I’m trying to change that. I’ve been trying to give women a good experience when they come into the shop, to let them know you can actually go do these things and not have to rely on your boyfriend, husband or father.”
“I’ve had it reiterated to me that I really take the time to help the individual find what they were looking for. I try to help them get what they originally came in for or I’ll educate them (about different options),” Autumn said.
MON - THURS: 8:00AM - 5:30PM
FRIDAY: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
SATURDAY: 8:00AM - NOON
SUNDAY: CLOSED
Tucked along the scenic banks of Rapid Creek, minutes from Pactola Lake, this immaculate, fully furnished custom-built home offers a rare opportunity to embrace the Black Hills lifestyle—covenant-free.
The main residence spans over 4,200 square feet of refined living space, designed to capture the beauty of its natural surroundings. Step into the awe-inspiring great room with soaring 23foot ceilings, exposed wood beams, a stunning stone fireplace, and gleaming hardwood floors. The chef’s kitchen is both stylish and functional, featuring granite countertops, a walk-in pantry, breakfast bar, and high-end finishes throughout.
Retreat to the spacious main-level primary suite, where private deck access provides breathtaking views of the creek and the bordering Black Hills National Forest. Upstairs, you’ll find two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and a cozy sitting area perfect for guests or quiet relaxation.
The walk-out lower level is a haven for recreation and entertaining, with a large family room that opens directly to the creekside, a dedicated fly-fishing room, guest bedroom, full bath, and mechanical space.
Completing this incredible property is a charming 1,168-square-foot guest cabin, featuring two bedrooms, a full bath, and all the modern amenities for comfort and style.
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this property offers direct access to Rapid Creek for fishing or kayaking, proximity to hiking and biking trails, ATV routes, and the peaceful embrace of wildlife viewed from your heated porch or open-air deck.
