From to NEWS ANIMALS & Everything in Between
JERRY STEINLEY
MEET Dr. Katie Whittaker
Dr. Katie grew up in Papillion, Nebraska – just southwest of Omaha – and graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. She loves the beautiful Black Hills, which is why she made this her home following dental school. Dr. Katie’s area of focus is general dentistry for patients of all ages, and she’s excited to provide the latest advancements and best treatment available.
If you’re looking for a new dentist, call Dr. Katie today!
“Hands
Mark Garner, DDS
Tyler Juhlin, DDS
Emily Hvezda, DMD
Mason Hericks, DDS
Patty Stover 605-390-2617 | patty@michelscom.com
Teresa Nestor 605-484-0918 | teresa@michelscom.com graphic
Melissa Chinn
Andrew Weber, Carrie Moser, Daniel Petereit, Dorothy Rosby, Heidi Mecham, Maggie Jean Lepa-Wince, Molly Barari
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Margi Culhane 605-940-4724 | margi@michelscom.com
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Hanna Michels 605-760-4269 | hanna@michelscom.com
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.
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JERRY STEINLEY’S JOURNEY NEWS ANIMALS & Everything in Between
By Molly Barari | Photos by Open Spaces Photography
It’s easy to feel a little jealous of Jerry Steinley. As the director of the Humane Society of the Black Hills, he gets to spend his days surrounded by cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, reptiles—and occasionally, chickens.
“The best part of the job is the people I meet and the animals I see each day,” he says. “It’s also rewarding to see how supportive our community is of our organization.”
Steinley, 58, has served as director of the Humane Society since August 2019. In his role, he ensures the Humane Society runs smoothly. He handles the business side of operations, such as managing 30 employees and managing finances, as well as doing media and public appearances.
He’s been at the Humane Society for a total of seven years, first serving as the Resource Development Director. He did
event planning, media relations, marketing, resource development, and website management—so becoming the director was a natural extension of everything he had done before.
For Jerry, reaching personal milestones is great, but he finds much more fulfillment and inspiration in seeing acts of kindness.
“I am fortunate to see small acts of kindness often at the Humane Society. Seeing someone give of themselves is a reminder we can all make a difference in our own ways.”
Jerry feels an intense responsibility in his role to take good care of the animals who enter the shelter— and to ultimately make sure they are adopted into loving homes.
“We participate in Pet of the Week on News Center 1 to feature the pets we’re sheltering. I have also written two columns in the Rapid City Journal to educate the public about what we do and what our needs are. I
regularly talk with clubs and churches, too. We do the best we can for the animals.”
As someone who has always had pets, Jerry speaks fondly of the cat he has now. Her name is Latte, partly because Jerry loves coffee.
“I like sitting at Dunn Brothers and enjoying a cup,” he says. “For those who don’t know, there is also a new Coffee and Cats coffee shop that opened on East Saint Patrick Street. You can sit and pet a cat while you enjoy your coffee drink. The Humane Society supplies cats to them, and it’s been a pretty good adoption rate so far.”
Jerry appreciates having a job that keeps him involved in the community, and he hopes to do even more community service in the future. He grew up in Rapid City, attending Wilson Elementary, Dakota Middle School and Central High School, where he graduated in 1984.
After graduating, he spent a year in California working for a water pump company. He then moved back to Rapid City to work. After gaining a few years of life experience, Jerry decided to attend college at South Dakota State University in Brookings.
At SDSU, Jerry immersed himself in journalism and political science classes. He ended up transferring to Metropolitan State University in Denver to finish his degree, graduating in 1994.
“I’ve always been fascinated by journalism and politics,” says Jerry. “I wanted a career where I could combine both.”
Fortunately, a position was open at the Meade County Times Tribune, so Jerry moved to Sturgis to start his career as a reporter. He covered city and county news, as well as the police beat. He eventually took an editor position.
In 1997, Jerry and his ex-wife Lynne moved to Watertown, where Lynne had secured a teaching position.
Jerry joined the staff at the Watertown Public Opinion newspaper as the features editor. After six years, he was promoted to managing editor. He devoted 7 years to the newspaper.
When Jerry thinks about the most influential person in his life, his publisher at the Public Opinion comes to mind.
“He was a role model during my career in journalism. He understood newspapers and community and helped me do better with both. He expected good journalism, and I did that; he expected community involvement, and I did that. He understood that a newspaper was the voice of a thriving community and passed that along to me. Mark was a good publisher, and he made me a better newspaper editor and member of my community.”
Then Jerry felt called to return home to Rapid City, the place where he grew up and had roots. At the Rapid City Journal, Jerry became the editorial page editor. He was there for a year and a half, and then an opportunity arose in public relations and marketing at Regional Health.
“I used many of the same skills in public relations that I did in journalism. As a journalist, I was a photographer, editor and writer, and I did all of those things in PR. It was fun work, and I liked being involved in healthcare industry. The people I worked with were great.”
When his job was eliminated due to restructuring, Jerry missed those close relationships the most. At that point in his career,
Jerry dabbled in several areas—selling real estate at Coldwell Banker for a year and a half and doing freelance blog and website writing for Robert Sharp & Associates. He eventually landed his dream job at the Humane Society of the Black Hills—a culmination of all his skills and experiences.
Outside of work, Jerry has diverse interests. One year, he was a member of the Black Hills Woodcarver’s Club. “I was a wood carver for a long time,” he says. “All my relatives have something carved from me in their homes.”
Jerry is also a runner. He participated in a memorable triathlon in 2006 with his family at Tupper Lake in New York. This experience kicked off a new chapter in Jerry’s life— fifteen years that were devoted to running.
When he was focused on running, Jerry’s inspiration was achieving new milestones. “Training for months and then crossing a finish line after a 26.1-mile marathon or 50-mile ultramarathon was very inspiring for me.”
Each year, Jerry also likes to take a Community Education class to expand his horizons and learn something new. One year, he took a guitar class. One year he took a knitting class. This year, he thinks he’ll try the guitar again.
One of his most important interests is being a first-time grandfather to his granddaughter, Florence, who was born June 27 and lives in Salt Lake City with Jerry’s daughter, Hannah. He also has a son, Alex, in Chicago.
“It feels good being a grandfather. It makes you feel a little older when you realize another generation has passed. It’s a special thing to have that little girl in my arms.”
Though his kids are spread out, Jerry still feels at home in the Black Hills. “I like to hike, run and ski in the Hills. I own a house on the west side, and I enjoy kayaking at Canyon Lake. My sister lives a couple blocks down from me. My mom is in Rapid City and my dad is in Spearfish. It’s nice to be close to them.”
Jerry calls the Black Hills a “hidden gem” with a little bit of everything, from towering Ponderosa pines to unique rock formations to numerous bodies of water.
In the past, Jerry served on the Rapid City Air Quality Board, an issue he is passionate about. In his future, he sees himself getting more involved in issues affecting the city, such as housing, homelessness and making the city more bicycle-friendly to encourage bicycle use.
“These are big issues to solve, but I am interested in doing my part to help solve them.”
For now, you’ll find him being the best Humane Society director he can be—and embracing every minute of the experience.
JERRY STEINLEY fun facts about five
He drove 3,000 miles to the Adirondack Mountains in upper state New York—which was right in the path of totality—to see the Eclipse. “I spent the night with my brother and then drove right back to South Dakota.”
He enjoys “The Book of Mormon,” having watched the musical for the first time in Rapid City and then driving to Chicago to see it for a second time.
He can juggle knives
He loves skydiving and has gone once in California and once in Colorado.
His nickname is Uncle Blueberry. “My family did the Houston Marathon and one of my toes got a blister on it. My sister’s son said it looked like a blueberry. It was a good marathon, except for the blister that got infected. I tried to start Uncle Blueberry’s Fun Run at the Humane Society, but it didn’t take off.”
Supporting Domestic Violence Victims
By Molly Barari
One in four women, and one in seven men, will experience violence by their intimate partner in their lifetime. This could be your coworker, a neighbor, a friend, or a family member. This could be you.
The month of October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month – a time when people are asked to learn about and reflect on the issue.
“We focus on awareness because it’s such a problematic situation that people tend to turn their heads away from,” says Amber Oldfield, Development Coordinator at Working Against Violence, Inc.
WAVI—which is headquartered in Rapid City with a satellite location at Pine Ridge Reservation—supports all genders, races and ages of people who are victims of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and stalking.
The organization provides a secure, safe shelter with 56 beds. They coordinate emergency department response, and they help clients meet their basic needs. They provide meals, snacks, baby formula, toiletries, clothing and more.
Mission: Working to create a community free of domestic violence and sexual assault through advocacy, education, and support services.
• 24-Hour Emergency Shelter
• Information & Referral
• Crisis Management
• Legal Advocacy
• Community Education
• Support Groups
• Comprehensive Case Management
• Emergency Department Response
• 24-Hour Crisis Line
• Protection Orders
24-Hour Crisis Hotline (605) 341-4808 Toll Free 1-888-716-9284
www.WAVI.org • wav@wavi.org (605) 341-3292
“When people need to leave in a hurry, they don’t have time to take everything they need, so we have it for them,” says Oldfield. “We also have around-the-clock advocacy and care, helping clients set goals and plan for their future. Some people will stay a few days and others will stay a few months.”
Oldfield, who has been in her role with WAVI for the past three years, says the staff and volunteers at WAVI work hard to make the shelter comfortable.
“We want folks to feel like they’ve run home for safety,” she says. “We treat them like family while they’re here. If it’s someone’s birthday, we make them a cake. Clients can rest assured that their kids won’t have to miss holidays or celebrations.”
Each October, WAVI gears up for its annual Power of Peace event. This year’s event is Oct. 2 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Dahl Fine Arts Center. The theme is “Empower Peace, End the Silence: Unmask Domestic Violence.”
“The Power of Peace event brings together community partners and community members to promote awareness for the cause,” says Oldfield.
This year’s event will have a program featuring local survivor Darla Black, who will share her empowering story.
Sitting on each table will be an actual mask with a survivor story on it, or words that helped the person feel better. Oldfield describes the stories as extremely impactful. The color associated with the event is purple, the color of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
WAVI will also honor the 2025 Spirit of Peace award recipient, Krista Heeren-Graber, founder and Executive Director of the South Dakota Network Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault since 1999.
WAVI is supported by numerous community partners, including Pennington County Sheriff’s Office; Ellsworth Air Force Base; Child Protective Services; Catholic Social Services; Community Health Center of the Black Hills; Youth & Family Services; The Network; The Circle; Feeding South Dakota; Cornerstone Women and Children’s and Mommy’s Closet, to name a few.
“Our case managers help our clients get connected with any resources they might need. It’s very common for survivors to go back to the cycle of violence because it’s all they know. We want our clients to have everything they need to walk away from the violence and create safe, successful lives.”
WAVI leans not only on its community partners, but on its volunteers. The organization utilizes 15 to 20 volunteers per month for various tasks. If people are interested in helping, they can fill out an application under the Support Us tab on wavi.org.
Oldfield—who works with volunteers, marketing, grant writing and fundraising— says that WAVI has lost over half a million dollars recently due to budget cuts.
“It’s important that we focus on making up for that to ensure that our clients always have a place to go. We have never closed our doors in 45 years, and we don’t ever want to. A lot of selfless work goes into this organization, and it’s all for the greater good.”
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Celebrating a
Milestone
By Heidi Mecham
Since its founding in June 2014, the Workplace Disability Network of the Black Hills (WDNBH) has grown into a beacon of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. This year, we proudly celebrate the 10th anniversary of WDNBH, a nonprofit organization that has evolved into a cornerstone of support and advocacy for businesses and individuals with disabilities in the Black Hills community.
What began as a small group of industry leaders, employers, and human resource professionals dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities has now grown into a credible resource for businesses seeking to foster a more inclusive workforce. WDNBH’s mission is clear: to educate and empower businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals with disabilities, believing that everyone has potential and, with the proper support, can thrive in the workplace.
A Decade of Impact and New Initiatives
As WDNBH reflects on its first decade of service, it’s also looking ahead to an exciting future. One of the most significant initiatives launching
this fall is the Disability Inclusive Business Ally Program. This program is designed to recognize and celebrate businesses that have demonstrated a strong commitment to hiring and supporting individuals with disabilities.
The program intentionally uses the term “Ally.” The goal is not just to recognize businesses once but to build long-term partnerships that continue to foster inclusivity. By displaying these awards prominently at the front entrance or drive-through windows of local companies, we send a powerful message: this business values inclusion and employs people with disabilities. A list of recognized businesses will also be displayed on WDNBH’s website, further amplifying the visibility of those committed to creating inclusive work environments.
Businesses that proactively hire individuals with disabilities not only contribute to a more diverse and equitable workforce but also benefit from potential
financial gains. People with disabilities represent the thirdlargest market segment in the U.S. By hiring individuals with disabilities, businesses can increase their bottom line while better understanding and meeting the needs of this growing customer base.
Inclusion is more than just a goal—it’s essential for success. Research shows that when employees feel welcome, respected, and fully included in their workplace, they are more likely to stay with the company, seek promotions, and truly thrive. WDNBH’s Disability Inclusive Business Ally Program is a step forward in ensuring that more businesses embrace this reality.
New Online Resources & Celebrating Milestones
In addition to the Disability Inclusive Business Ally Program, WDNBH is rolling out other new initiatives in celebration of its 10-year milestone. Among them are new donation and resources web pages, which make it easier for the community to support WDNBH’s mission and access valuable information. This enhanced digital presence reflects WDNBH’s commitment to modernizing its outreach and improving accessibility for both businesses and individuals.
We also expanded our online presence with a new Instagram page and a growing LinkedIn community. This fall, we’re launching a YouTube channel featuring our latest vlog, Tech Talk, which will showcase demos of assistive technology devices and how they help individuals with disabilities succeed in the workplace.
This growth in online platforms underscores WDNBH’s forwardthinking approach to advocacy. It ensures that businesses have easy access to resources, educational materials, and the opportunity to connect with a broader community.
Welcoming New Board Members and Leadership
With new initiatives comes new leadership. We’re thrilled to introduce two new board members who bring fresh perspectives and invaluable experience to our organization.
Reese Niu, Workforce Planning Director at Elevate Rapid City, is passionate about removing barriers for those living in poverty as they enter the workforce. Originally from Samoa, Reese’s culture highly values service to others, a principle she carries into her work at Elevate. Reese’s diverse background, which includes experience as a police officer and a passion for music, adds a dynamic element to our board.
Brett Burden, Coordinator of Technical Services at DakotaLink, has been with the company since 2008. He is currently responsible for coordinating daily operations across the state in four offices and has experience working directly with individuals with disabilities for 14 years prior to that, making him a valuable addition to our team. Brett’s technical knowledge, coupled with his commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities, aligns perfectly with WDNBH’s mission.
Brett Burden, Coordinator of Technical Services at DakotaLink
Heidi Mecham - Executive Director at WDNBH
Reese Niu - Workforce Planning Director at Elevate Rapid City
WDNBH also recently welcomed Heidi Mecham as its Executive Director. Mecham brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit management, grant administration, and community engagement. With degrees in psychology and public administration, as well as training in nonprofit management and grant writing, she is well-equipped to lead WDNBH to its next chapter. Mecham is passionate about driving the organization’s mission forward and ensuring that WDNBH continues to be a beacon of support and advocacy in the Black Hills.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) Lunch and Learn
One of WDNBH’s signature events, the National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) Lunch and Learn, is set for October 17 at the Dahl Arts Center in Rapid City. This year’s theme, “Taking the Scary Out of the ADA,” is aimed at empowering employers with the knowledge and confidence to navigate ADA requirements with ease.
Guest speakers Paula McInerney-Hall, an Attorney, and Moni Patterson, an HR Generalist and ADA Compliance specialist from Monument Health, will lead presentations. This event is highly recommended for HR professionals, managers, and business owners who want to support their workforce while staying compliant with ADA regulations. BHSHRM has also approved the NDEAM Lunch and Learn training for 2.0 Recertification Credit Hours towards SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP. Tickets are $25 per person and are available through Eventbrite. Keep watching our website for more information about the event: www.wdnbh.org/events
Looking Ahead: Continuing Our Mission
As WDNBH celebrates its 10th anniversary, the organization reflects on its growth from a small network of passionate advocates to a powerful force for inclusivity in the Black Hills. Over the past decade, WDNBH has touched countless lives, helping businesses create more inclusive work environments and advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities.
But the work is far from over. The challenges in creating inclusive workplaces are significant, but so are the opportunities. By working together—employers, employees, and community members—the communities in the Black Hills can build a future where inclusion is the norm and every individual has the chance to contribute their unique talents to the workforce.
As WDNBH moves forward, its commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces remains as strong as ever. With the launch of new programs like the Disability Inclusive Business Ally Program, a growing online presence, and expanded educational offerings, WDNBH is poised to continue making a lasting impact in the years to come.
Join WDNBH on October 17 for the NDEAM Lunch and Learn, and let’s continue to create a world where access to good jobs is truly available for all.
Thursday, October 17 11:30am to 1:30pm The Dahl Arts Center
BHSHRM has approved this 2.0
LOCAL EXPERTS IN:
Foundation
Basement
waterproofing
Concrete
Crawl
Radon
DIGNITY WORK The of
By Carrie Moser
The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces back to 1945 when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” The initial purpose of this law was to encourage businesses to employ people with physical disabilities.
In 1962, President Kennedy signed an order changing the name and dynamics of the initial law. Executive Order 10994 removed the word “physically,” thereby acknowledging the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
The opportunity to work and contribute is a vital component of inclusion for people with disabilities. Nationally, only 19% of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities earn a paycheck, according to the 2023 Case for Inclusion report developed by the ANCOR Foundation. This is why Black Hills Works strives to build inclusive workplaces that empower individuals of all abilities through comprehensive employment services. Tailored supports are also offered to businesses looking to embrace diversity and inclusion.
Black Hills Works job coaches help participants identify strengths and develop skills with the goal of attaining and maintaining employment. A variety of work settings, skill sets, and schedules are available for people supported and business partners, including screening individuals and determining strengths and abilities, one on one job coaching provided onsite at no cost to the business, and ongoing support to ensure expectations are being met. Employing individuals with disabilities can possibly make a business eligible for the Work Opportunity Tax Credits, a federal tax incentive for hiring people with disabilities.
Employment opportunities are only possible through the support of our business community. Notably, over fifty employers employ 285 people we support, providing them with the dignity of work. These valued employees fill vital roles at industries across the Black Hills including tourism, medical offices, restaurants, maintenance, retail, grocers, nonprofit businesses, and military support. They stock local grocery store shelves and clean office buildings, and ensure hotels and restaurants remain welcoming for tourists. They play a crucial role in providing essential support to our military operations at Ellsworth Air Force Base, contributing significantly to the smooth functioning and mission success of this important facility. These dedicated employees take immense pride in their work. Their contributions foster a sense of accomplishment, enhance their independence, and improve their overall quality of life.
Todd was presented with an Achievement Award for his thirty years of service at Ellsworth Air Force Base. Todd takes pride in his work and smiles whenever you ask him about his job. Melissa has worked at Culver’s for two years and currently works five days a week. Melissa’s strong work ethic and dependability have made her successful in her employment goals, and she loves her job. Leo works on a custodial crew where he primarily folds towels. When you first meet Leo, he will ask if you have seen him fold towels and then proudly shares how he folds 100 towels a day.
These examples illustrate the profound impact that meaningful work has on adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as our entire region. Thanks to the support of the business community, inclusion is happening here in Rapid City and the Black Hills! We can’t wait to see how inclusion and job opportunities will grow in the years ahead.
The Vital Role of Immunizations: PROTECTING HEALTH ONE SHOT AT A TIME
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the simple yet powerful act of getting vaccinated. Immunizations play a crucial role in safeguarding not just individual health, but also the health of our community. Let’s explore why regular immunizations are essential, how they work, and the broader benefits they provide.
Understanding Immunizations
Immunizations, often referred to as vaccines, are biological preparations that provide acquired immunity to specific infectious diseases. When you receive a vaccine, your immune system is trained to
recognize and combat pathogens like viruses and bacteria. This process not only protects you but also contributes to herd immunity, which is vital for those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons, such as allergies or weakened immune systems.
Preventing Disease Outbreaks
Vaccines have successfully eradicated or significantly reduced several diseases that were once rampant. For example, smallpox is now eradicated, and polio is nearly eliminated in many parts of the world, thanks to widespread vaccination efforts. By staying up-todate with immunizations, you help prevent outbreaks
offer a wide range of immunizations for all ages, such as: COVID-19, Influenza, Shingles, Whooping Cough, Pneumonia, Rotavirus, MMR and so much more. For a complete list of available immunizations visit our website: www.completehealthsd.care/services/immunizations/
that could lead to severe illness and even death. The more people who are vaccinated, the less chance these diseases have to spread.
The Economic Impact
Immunizations are not just a health concern; they also have significant economic implications. Preventing disease saves healthcare costs associated with hospitalizations, treatments, and lost productivity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that vaccines save the U.S. economy over $1 trillion each year by preventing disease-related expenses. By investing in immunizations, you’re not just protecting yourself; you’re contributing to the economic health of your community.
The Convenience Factor
In today’s world, getting vaccinated has never been easier. With numerous clinics, pharmacies, and healthcare providers offering immunizations, access is as easy as select, inject and protect. Many vaccines are combined into single shots, reducing the number of visits required. For parents, this means fewer trips to
Complete Health accepts most insurances including Medicaid. They also offer care on an income-based sliding scale, making it health care everyone can afford.
Combatting Vaccine Hesitancy
Despite the overwhelming benefits, vaccine hesitancy persists in some communities. Misinformation about vaccines can lead to fear and doubt. It’s crucial to seek information from reputable sources, like the healthcare professionals at Complete Health or the CDC. Open conversations about vaccine safety and efficacy can alleviate concerns and encourage those around you to get vaccinated.
Conclusion: A Shot for the Future
Regular immunizations are a cornerstone of public health, offering protection against preventable diseases and contributing to the overall well-being of communities. By keeping up with your vaccinations, you are not only ensuring your health but also playing a crucial role in the fight against infectious diseases. Let’s roll up our sleeves and embrace the power of immunization!
Thursday November 7th 5:00-7:00pm
Locally owned since 1968
Reverie Photography Justice Huntington
This charming home offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The main level features 2 bedrooms, a formal dining room, and a cozy kitchen with breakfast nook. The living room opens into a large sitting area, perfect for entertaining. The lower level boasts a large family room, 2 additional bedrooms, and a versatile flex space. Outside, you’ll find a secluded fenced yard with mature landscaping and a garden, plus an additional garage at the back of the home.
VERSATILE YOUR HOME WITH CAMBRIA QUARTZ
By Tanya Manus
Innovative design trends incorporate beautiful, practical Cambria quartz into nearly every room in modern homes and in the 26 years Creative Surfaces has been a Cambria quartz dealer, Cambria’s popularity has continued to grow.
“It’s an amazing product with beautiful designs. What it brings to your home is purely stunning and beautiful. It just makes a real statement in your home,” expresses Denise Pins, Creative Surfaces’ Sales and Marketing Coordinator.
“We were one of their first certified installers to sign up with Cambria,” Denise continues. “Cambria quartz is the number one seller of countertops. Cambria is a top of the line quartz product in the market.”
Cambria quartz is nearly indestructible. It’s an engineered, nonporous product seven times more durable than granite. It’s stain-resistant, scratch-resistant and nearly maintenance-free, Denise explains. If a blemish occurs, Cambria will send someone to fix it.
Creative Surfaces’ main focus is countertops — for kitchens, coffee bars, laundry rooms and more. Cambria quartz offers a wide range of colors and nearly 200 designs. “New patterns and colors are released every few months, and more will debut later this fall,” Denise says.
White and gray remain favorite choices for homeowners. A hint of metallic gold in some of Cambria’s designs offers a subtle, chic accent to the quartz, while bolder colored veining in lighter tones of quartz is an emerging trend.
“When you have a design that has a distinctive river or vein that runs through it — because Cambria does an amazing job of matching up those veins from the top down the leg of the waterfall — it all looks like one piece, but it’s not,” Denise explains.
“What we’re seeing in trends with quartz countertops and quartz, in general, is waterfall end panels (on) both
ends of big kitchen islands. The quartz extends down the end of the cabinet, which is super cool,” Denise remarks.
Another enduring trend is using Cambria quartz instead of tile on full-height kitchen backsplashes. Quartz extends the counter up the wall and requires minimal care.
“When you have it behind your cooktop, Cambria is a nonporous product so when you spill something on it, it doesn’t take on any of that residue,” Denise affirms. “Cambria doesn’t take on that moisture, so it’s really easy to clean.”
In bathrooms, Cambria quartz is an appealing option for shower surrounds, Denise points out.
“You can do the entire shower surround in Cambria, or you can opt to do a combination of glass panels and Cambria.
There are many different options. You can also do half tile and half Cambria,” Denise adds. “We’ll see Cambria in the niche where people put their shampoo and razors. Cambria is easy to squeegee off. It’s nonporous, so you don’t have to worry about water seeping through the product.”
Cambria quartz is stunning and dramatic in living and family rooms, as well.
“We are seeing a big trend in fireplaces walls and surrounds featuring black, charcoal or white granite to create a sophisticated focal point,” Denise states.
Creative Surfaces prides itself on its exceptional products and customer service that helps people achieve their dream homes.
“When we meet with customers, we keep the lines of communication open from the very start,” Denise adds. “We ask as many questions as we possibly can, and we want the customer to ask lots of questions as well. Let’s get the questions, decisions and timeframe made on the front end so all of our expectations have been met.”
In addition to its Sioux Falls location, Creative Surfaces has a commercial cabinetry manufacturing plant and a retail showroom at 1501 Centre St. in Rapid City.
IN GEAR.
