BHL - March 2026 Layout Final

Resilience, Impact, and Heart in the Black Hills Spencer

ON THE COVER

By Natalie Frazier; Photography by Chapters in Focus

8

SPENCER GOSSEL

RESILIENCE, IMPACT AND HEART IN THE BLACK HILLS

Belle Fourche is best known as the geographic Center of the Nation, marked by the iconic Center of the Nation Monument and scenic river walk, while its biggest draw is the legendary Black Hills Roundup—one of the nation’s oldest rodeos— returning in late June and early July 2026 with PRCA rodeo action, parades, concerts, and fireworks. Visitors also enjoy western history at the Tri-State Museum, outdoor recreation at nearby Belle Fourche Reservoir and Rocky Point, local golf and disc golf, and easy access to the northern Black Hills, making the town a lively mix of frontier heritage, outdoor adventure, and classic small-town celebrations.

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.

©Copyright 2026 Michels Communications Corporation

All rights reserved. No part of this publication December be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the expressed written permission from the publisher. Black Hills Lifestyle does not necessarily endorse or agree with content of articles or advertising presented.

www.michelscom.com

P.O. Box 91606 Sioux Falls, SD 57109 | 605-332-0421

MARCH 27, 28, 29, 2026

Friday, 11:00am – 6:00pm Saturday, 10:00am – 6:00pm Sunday, 10:00am – 3:00pm at The Monument

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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

Stephen Nohr 605-359-1067 | stephen.nohr@michelscom.com

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

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Aaron Scott, Melissa Chinn

TEAM OF WRITERS

Natalie Frazier, Molly Barari, Carrie Moser, Michaela Horn, Dorothy Rosby, Lauren Johnson, Sarah Krecklow

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER

Chapters in Focus

EDITOR

Margi Culhane 605-940-4724 | margi@michelscom.com

REGIONAL MANAGER / GSM

Kevin Culhane 605-661-8509 | kevin@michelscom.com

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MARKETING

Cory Johnsen 605-951-3567 | cory@michelscom.com

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Melissa Chinn 605-310-7563 | melissa@michelscom.com

CHIEF OF OPERATIONS

Hanna Sitting Crow 605-760-4269 | hanna@michelscom.com

Spencer Gossel Resilience, Impact, and Heart in the Black Hills

By Natalie Frazier; Photography by Chapters In Focus

When Spencer Gossel moved to Rapid City in 2009, she was pregnant with her son and carrying a determination that would define both her personal and professional life. Growing up in Faith, a town where she graduated with just 14 classmates, Spencer had big dreams that shifted and grew alongside the challenges she faced.

That included raising her son as a single mother and navigating her own cancer diagnosis that shaped her future.

“It really showed me that if you just put your head down, there’s always a way through something,” Spencer reflects.

“Life can end up really, really beautiful afterward.”

Spencer’s journey through adversity only strengthened her passion for making a difference. Professionally, she has built a remarkable career in the mortgage industry, earning a place on the President’s Council as one of the top producers in the country, and recently being recognized in Rapid City’s 40 Under 40. Yet, it’s not the accolades that drive her, it’s the impact she leaves on families.

“I pay attention to the families we touch,” she explains. “Whether I’m helping someone with budgeting, credit repair, or homeownership, it’s all about how I can make a difference in their lives.”

Beyond her professional success, Spencer has become a tireless advocate for children battling cancer. Her journey into philanthropy began more than a decade ago when she met a local family whose child was fighting cancer. Through fundraising and introducing them to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, she discovered a mission close to her heart. From hosting 5Ks to organizing Strike Out Cancer bowling events, Spencer has raised nearly $125,000 for pediatric cancer research over the past nine years.

“What really hit me,” she says, “is that less than four percent of cancer funding in the country goes to childhood cancer. I want to do everything I can to help these families.”

Spencer credits her son, Bentley, as her central source of inspiration and joy. Her

“What really hit me,” she says, “is that less than four percent of cancer funding in the country goes to childhood cancer. I want to do everything I can to help these families.”

dedication to him guides her choices, from balancing her career to ensuring he has opportunities to thrive in sports and activities. Outside of work, she enjoys camping, traveling, and staying active, prioritizing health and wellness, lessons underscored by personal loss and the passing of her parents at a young age.

A believer in abundance, Spencer lives by a philosophy of giving back. “If you have blessings, you give blessings,” she says. “Even if I don’t leave a legacy, I want the people I encounter to feel positively impacted by my life.” Her mantra extends beyond philanthropy to daily life: hard work, humility, and a

“It really showed me that if you just put your head down, there’s always a way through something,” Spencer reflects. “Life can end up really, really beautiful afterward.”

commitment to being the type of person who deserves good things while sharing those blessings with others.

Looking to the future, Spencer is focused on growth both personally and professionally. She hopes to expand her team, continue giving back to the community, and maintain the balance that allows her to be present for her family.

Spencer Gossel’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and heart. From navigating the challenges of single motherhood and health struggles to building a career of impact and a legacy of compassion. She embodies what it means to face life head-on and to lift others along the way.

Spencer Gossel five fun facts

one

I’ve lost over 100 pounds and love an active lifestyle with powerlifting, pilates, spin classes and anything that can keep me challenging myself.

two

I am a Lady of Scotland (Fun fact: if you own more than a square foot of land in Scotland, you are dubbed a Lorde/Lady of the country.)

three

I’ve had several short stories and poems published. I was originally going to school to be a writer until I got pregnant with my son and pivoted to the business side of things.

four

I have three degrees – in finance, accounting and business marketing and management. All of which I knocked out while being a single mom, working full time and battling cancer.

five

I was a radio DJ as a side job in my 20’s.

Living Life Together Living Life Together

Where life is shared, celebrated, and lived fully

WHERE HOME BEGINS

At Peaceful Pines, we believe senior living should feel like home, warm, welcoming, and full of life. Our communities are designed to support independence, foster meaningful relationships, and celebrate each person’s story.

MOMENTS THAT MAKE LIFE

MEANINGFUL

From everyday moments to milestone celebrations, life at Peaceful Pines is shaped by connection, purpose, and joy. Whether it’s sharing a laugh, trying something new, or simply feeling supported, we’re living life together, every day.

Find your next chapter at Peaceful Pines your next chapter at Peaceful Pines

Communities Across South Dakota

Rooted in South Dakota. Built on connection.

BROOKINGS

FORT PIERRE

HURON

MADISON

MILBANK

MITCHELL - (Coming Fall 2026)

RAPID CITY

SPEARFISH

WELCOME TO

STAY

Belle Fourche

Nestled in the northern Black Hills of South Dakota, Belle Fourche is a charming small town known for its rich history, welcoming community, and scenic beauty. Often recognized as the geographic center of the United States, Belle Fourche proudly blends its Old West heritage with modern-day amenities. Originally established as a railroad and livestock hub, the town has maintained its agricultural roots while embracing tourism and local events, including the popular Black Hills Roundup. With its friendly atmosphere and close proximity to outdoor adventures, Belle Fourche offers both residents and visitors a unique taste of life in the American heartland.

The Arts Thrive In Belle Fourche

By Michaela Horn

Art has long been woven into the culture of Belle Fourche, creating opportunities for residents and visitors to experience in many forms. When visiting Belle Fourche you will easily find murals and community collaborations.

Multiple businesses and public spaces including the Belle Fourche Rec Center have created a space to proudly display artwork from local artists. Partnerships between community organizations and the Belle Fourche School District have also brought color and storytelling to life through art collaborations found throughout town. These projects add to the beauty of Belle Fourche and also give young artists meaningful opportunities to leave their mark on the community.

Music and performing arts are also strong pillars of Belle Fourche’s artistic culture. The Center of the Nation Concert Association brings a wide variety of performances to the community each year. From high-energy a cappella groups to

diverse musical genres, the organization continues to expand entertainment opportunities for local audiences. This past winter, Broadway performers from New York City took the stage, offering a holiday theater experience close to home and bringing in attendees from the tri-state area and from all ages of life.

During the summer months, the arts often take center stage outdoors. Last year, the United States Air Force Academy Band delivered a powerful performance at Hermann Park, helping kick off Fourth of July festivities organized by the Belle Fourche Arts Council. Events like these bring the community together. The Air Force Academy Band enjoyed Belle Fourche so much that they have been collaborating with the Arts Council to return this summer on June 30th. This makes Belle Fourche the kick off for the 250th anniversary of the United States.

The Belle Fourche Cowboy Band has been a proud part of the community since its official organization in 1931, with roots that trace back to local bands formed before the turn of the century. Still active today, the band performs at community events and appears in local parades, helping preserve Belle Fourche’s musical heritage and keep this long-standing tradition alive for future generations.

Local artists are also making a visible impact across town. Ariadne “Ari” Albright, owner of Creative Care LLC Studio, focuses on bringing hands-on art experiences to groups of all ages and abilities. Her passion for community collaboration recently resulted in a vibrant mural added to a local Splash and Dash car wash, demonstrating how art can transform everyday spaces into public galleries.

The literary arts are equally celebrated through the Belle Fourche Writers, a group formed in 2012 following a memoir writing class. The group meets regularly at the Belle Fourche Public Library, providing opportunities for writers to share ideas, edit work, and encourage one another.

Their mission is to preserve memories, share experiences, and inspire storytelling throughout the community.

Over the years, members of the Belle Fourche Writers have published poetry, novels, memoirs, and children’s literature.

Live theater is another growing artistic outlet in Belle Fourche. The Belle Fourche Area Community Theater continues to bring engaging performances and theatrical opportunities to local audiences, strengthening appreciation for stage productions and providing creative opportunities for performers of all ages. One performer we spoke to said that finding BFACT inspired him to come out of a 20 year retirement and sing in front of people again. He shared that the group has been a great way to make friends and it forces you out of the house during the chilly winter months.

Art in Belle Fourche is a living, breathing part of the community.

GET READY FOR THE 12TH ANNUAL PUTT-N-PUB!

By Carrie Moser

Grab your friends and get ready for a day of mini golf, downtown fun, and giving back! The Black Hills Works Foundation invites the community to join us on Saturday, April 25, 2026, for the 12th Annual Putt-N-Pub, a one-of-a-kind fundraising event in the heart of downtown Rapid City. For one day only, local bars and restaurants transform into creative mini-golf holes—making for an experience that’s even better than a hole-in-one.

An unforgettable downtown experience

Teams of four will putt their way through historic downtown Rapid City, enjoying drink specials along the route while competing for bragging rights and prizes. Awards will be given for best score, worst score, and best-designed hole, along with chances to win fantastic raffle prizes

donated by local businesses. Mulligans will be available for purchase, and teams can stop by the Suzie Cappa Art Center to snap photos at our event photo booth and capture the fun.

New this year: A suite deal!

We’re excited to once again partner with Admiral Beverage, who is offering an exclusive experience! Two lucky teams will enjoy watching the Rapid City Rush take on the Wichita Thunder from the Admiral Beverage suite on Friday, March 13, complete with all-you-can-eat food and drinks.

To be entered into the drawing, teams must be among the first 50 to register between March 1 and March 8. It’s an incredible bonus you won’t want to miss!

More than just a game

While the competition is fun, the heart of Putt-N-Pub is the opportunity to connect with the people supported by Black Hills Works. Many individuals return year after year as “Celebrity Putters,” helping host and oversee mini-golf holes. It’s a meaningful way to build relationships, foster inclusion, and see firsthand how community support makes a difference.

Black Hills Works exists to create a community where everyone can achieve a life of full potential. Proceeds from Putt-N-Pub support vital programming, including:

• More than 30 affordable and safe housing options

• Inclusive health, wellness, and recreational opportunities that promote physical well-being, social connection, and overall quality of life

• Inclusive arts programming through Flutter Productions and the Suzie Cappa Art Center

How to Join the Fun

Ready to putt for a purpose?

• Early Bird Registration: $160 per team of four (March 1–15)

• Regular Registration: $200 per team of four (beginning March 16)

There’s no dress code or expensive membership required—just bring your sense of fun. Putters and golf balls are provided. Grab your friends who are 21 or older, register today, and get ready for a memorable day downtown.

We can’t wait to see you on April 25!

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.

I Know Everything About Sleep...

...except how to do it

By Dorothy Rosby

Sometimes when I can’t sleep, I like to read about sleep which is almost as good. Not really. Not even close. But I go online anyway in the hopes of finding a cure for my annoying tendency to wake up around 3:30 a.m. ready to take on the world. I do love mornings. I’d just like them to start a little later.

I’ve learned a lot about how to fall asleep during my early morning research sessions—but nothing about how to stay that way. Obviously I’ve missed something. So here I am again at my computer. It’s dark. Even the birds are still asleep. And I’m reading about how a lack of shuteye can increase the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, dementia, cancer and motor vehicle accidents. Wow! If I wasn’t awake before I would be now.

I know them by heart but I do an internet search for sleep tips again anyway, just in case I’ve missed something. I haven’t. No caffeine after noon. Check. No heavy meals before bed. Check. Relaxing wind-down routine. Check. I’ve been up since 3:30 in the morning. By evening, relaxing is all I can manage.

Sleep in a cool, dark room. Yup. I do that. My husband even installed blackout curtains hoping that more sleep would make me easier to live with. I’m beginning to think we’ll never know.

Limit Naps. Yup. Except when we’re traveling. For some reason, I sleep better in a moving car than I do in a bed. In fact when I’m awake this early I’m tempted to wake my husband and hand him the car keys.

Turn off all screens 30-60 minutes before bed. Yup. TVs, tablets and cellphones emit a blue light that can interfere with sleep. I think they emit a lot of other things that interfere with sleep too.

I even put my computer in the nightlight mode when I wake up this early on the off chance that I’ll start feeling sleepy again. But if past experience is any indication, I’ll feel alert and energized up until around 9 a.m. Then I’ll collapse into a heap and become incapacitated for the rest of the day.

Scrolling on, I read that sleep experts believe most adults should get 7-9 hours of sleep per night. I knew that. Unfortunately, according to this article, only about half of American adults get that much. I should have known that too, as ornery as everyone is these days.

I click on a link to an article about World Sleep Day, March 13, sponsored by the World Sleep Society. There’s also Sleep Awareness Week, March 8-14, sponsored by the National Sleep Foundation. There’s one more sleep awareness holiday too, but we’re too late for that one. National Public Sleeping Day is held annually on February 28 to encourage public napping. No one admits to sponsoring that one.

Incidentally, it’s no accident that Sleep Awareness Week kicks off the same day daylight saving time begins. I follow a link to an article about how the time change is associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke as well as depression, anxiety and heated arguments about whether it’s daylight saving time or daylight savings time. According to this article it’s saving. No s. Whatever you call it, it’s time to spring ahead

which makes it sound like a lot more fun than it is.

A week in March and a public nap in February hardly seem like enough time to focus on something as important as sleep, especially when you consider that coffee gets an entire month. So do those other sleep robbers: colic and teen driving.

I’m not making that up. January is Teen Driving Awareness Month, March is Colic Awareness Month and August is National Coffee Month. And it’s not decaf either.

Here’s something I didn’t know. Apparently every other year the World Sleep Society sponsors a World Sleep Congress where sleep experts get together to hear about the latest research on sleep. Unlike attendees at most conferences, I bet those attending the World Sleep Congress drink only decaffeinated beverages after lunch and are in their rooms asleep by 10 p.m.

Apparently the conference regularly attracts over 3,000 attendees from more than 70 countries so many of them probably suffer from jet lag. But they probably know what to do about that.

Anyway, it’s now 4:30 a.m. and as usual, my research has been fascinating but not helpful. Reading about sleep, even with my computer in nightlight mode, hasn’t made me even a little bit sleepy. I hope it didn’t have that effect on you either.

MARCH 27, 28, 29, 2026 • AT

THE MONUMENT

Friday | 11:00am – 6:00pm • Saturday | 10:00am – 6:00pm •Sunday | 10:00am – 3:00pm

Join Rapid City’s Annual Home Show, the largest home and improvement event in western South Dakota, presented by the Black Hills Home Builders Association. This three day showcase features more than 400 booths filled with industry experts, innovative products, and trusted resources to help with new construction, renovations, or fresh design inspiration. Attendees

can connect with top professionals and explore everything needed to elevate their home or office space.

Don’t miss the vibrant Market Place Pop Up inside the ice arena, where over 75 local small businesses offer unique crafts, boutique finds, baked goods, and stylish home décor.

STOP AND VISIT WITH RAPID CITY’S #1 COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL INSULATION CONTRACTOR

Insulation is an important contributing factor to the overall comfort of your building or home. In South Dakota, we are lucky enough to be able to enjoy all four seasons to their fullest. In the winter, we experience snow and cold temperatures, and in the summer we experience days where temperatures can reach triple digits. With such wide variations in temperature throughout the year, it is imperative that the insulation in your building or home is up to par to ensure comfortable temperatures year round. Many people fail to realize that insulation is just as important in the summer as it is in the winter.

We help our home owners reduce energy costs with Owens Corning highperformance insulation installed by our skilled, efficient team. When you choose Big Rock Insulation, you receive a quality product, professional service, and results you can trust.

For Black Hills commercial properties, Big Rock Insulation provides expert insulation solutions for new construction and retrofit projects. We work with owners, builders, and architects to recommend the right system for your goals and budget, or execute your established plan with precision and reliability.

Why homeowners trust us:

• Expert concrete lifting and leveling using modern PolyLEVEL™ technology.

• Comprehensive concrete protection with Nexus Pro® crack sealing.

• Durable surface safeguarding with SealantPro™ sealer.

• Skilled professionals with deep regional experience.

• Free estimates and reliable service from consultation to completion.

Get Pumped Up for Spring

By Molly Barari

Have you been thinking about sprucing up your ride? Have a tax refund that’s burning a hole in your pocket? Now’s the time to stop in to see the professionals at Tyrrell Tires to get your ride ready for the sunny days ahead.

Did you know that upgrading your tires and wheels can completely change the look of your car or truck? Different size, tread pattern, offset and colors. There are so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming. Stop into Tyrrell Tires located at 105 N Cambell Street today and let their knowledgeable staff help you select the right tires and custom wheels to get your ride summer-ready.

This is a great time of the year to get your vehicle ready for the warmer weather ahead,” says Autumn Garcia, who owns Tyrrell Tires along with her fiancé, Scott Tyrrell. “We can help you personalize your vehicle and be road-ready for family trips, car shows or just cruising around town. People typically come in this time of year to swap out their snow tires for their summer wheels and tires,” explains Garcia. “If you’ve been saving money or just got your tax return, getting new wheels and tires could be a fun way to personalize your vehicle.”

There are many things to consider when purchasing new tires and wheels, whether you are looking for a practical, safe tire with a great mileage rating, an aggressive offroad tire or you may want a completely different setup with a lift kit and larger sized wheels and tires.

Size does matter - Ensuring you have proper clearance as overall diameter is important. Increasing the diameter of the wheel gives you a great street look while decreasing the diameter will increase your off-road performance. Wrong sizing can cause a decrease in your turning radius, ability to steer and cause interference with your overall driving ability. Today’s vehicles come standard with wheels that fit hub-centric, providing a consistent centering of the wheel and tire when mounted, basically allowing for a smooth ride. When you purchase from us, we ensure that the sizing is correct, that you have proper clearance as well as a great looking vehicle when you leave.

To be bold or not to be - Adding new tires alone can change the look of your vehicle, not to mention increase the safety/overall performance and will be a little easier on the checkbook in the long run. If you are looking to dramatically change the look of your vehicle, as well as increase the safety and overall performance, then new tires and custom wheels

may be what you need. Tyrrell Tires will help you find exactly what you are looking for, ensure you are purchasing the correct bolt pattern and offset to meet your performance expectations, but also one that is budget-friendly and looks sharp.

Whether you are looking at custom painted, black and machined, hyper silver or chrome, our staff will ensure you know the pros and cons to each and are armed with the knowledge to take care of your wheels to keep them looking their best! Tyrrell Tires has a variety of wheels in stock, from brands like Fuel, Black Rhino, Helo, KMC, XD, Mayhem and American Racing. Of course, those brands just scratch the surface as far as your options. Customers are also able to special order all brands of custom wheels.

Tyrrell Tires service after the sale speaks for itself. They expanded their current location to better serve their customers with a 40 X 60 addition, which has four bays for their mechanics to work.

“We’re so excited to have more space,” says Autumn. “To better serve our customers.”

To get in touch with the auto shop for any servicerelated questions, appointments or to schedule a time to meet with our team and personalize your vehicle, stop in today, call (605) 791-2922 or send a message on Facebook or Instagram.

Or visit www.tyrrelltires.com to learn more.

Forks, Corks & Kegs Returns to Deadwood With a Savory New VIP Showdown

By Lauren Johnson

If spring in the Black Hills has a signature flavor, it’s the one that fills Historic Deadwood every April: bold wines, inventive bites, craft brews, and the kind of small-town-meets-big-fun energy that keeps people coming back year after year. The 13th annual Forks, Corks & Kegs: Food, Wine, and Beer Festival April 10–11, 2026, and this year’s event is uncorking something brand new for VIP passholders.

Introducing Smashed Grapes, a high-spirited wine showcase and showdown where top industry pros go head-to-head to win your vote. It’s exclusive, part of the VIP package, and the kind of experience that turns a great weekend into an unforgettable one.

“We’re always looking at new things we can do to elevate the experience for our guests each year,” says Jesse Allen,

event coordinator for the Deadwood Chamber of Commerce. “Smashed Grapes really walks you through the journey of the wine from vineyard to glass and from production to pouring.” And that’s just part of the fun.

The weekend is built for foodies, wine lovers, and adventurous tasters. Forks, Corks & Kegs has earned its reputation as one of the region’s most anticipated culinary weekends, drawing visitors from across the country to wander Deadwood’s historic streets with a glass in hand. A general admission ticket includes access to every tasting event of the weekend, including:

• Wine Around Deadwood (5 to 7pm, Friday)

• Appetizer Crawl (7 to 9pm, Friday)

• Deadwood Dine Around (11am to 3 pm, Saturday)

• The Grand Tasting (4 to 6pm, Saturday) at the Deadwood Mountain Grand

Plus, you’ll pick up an open-container cup at registration and a commemorative glass at the Grand Tasting, the perfect keepsake for remembering your favorite sips long after the weekend ends.

Each stop on the tasting trail features a chef’s signature creation paired with a complementary wine or beer sample. Every venue becomes a mini culinary adventure. A full list of participating businesses and their offerings is provided at registration, so you can map out your flavor journey.

VIP tickets have always offered upgraded wine tastings and early access perks, but 2026 takes things to a whole new level on Saturday, 2 to 3pm, with the Smashed Grapes competition. Four elite wine representatives, including Duckhorn, Riboli, Delicato, and J. Lohr, will each step into the spotlight with one of their top wines. They’ll pitch, pour, and passionately defend their selection, walking you through everything from vineyard origins to tasting notes to the stories behind the bottle.

13th

“These experts love to talk wine and they can’t wait to pour and share their stories with our guests,” Jesse says. “Attendees listen to the pitch, taste every wine, and then cast their vote for the first-ever Smashed Grapes Champion.”

More VIP Perks include a private high-end wine tasting during Friday’s Wine Around, an upgraded commemorative glass, early entry to Saturday’s Grand Tasting, and complimentary access to the Reserve Room, featuring premium wines.

Whether you’re a foodie, a wine enthusiast, or someone who simply loves having a good time in a great town, Forks, Corks & Kegs is the perfect spring experience.

Tickets are available at Deadwood.com, and if you want in on the competition, be sure to click the VIP option.

THIS IS WHAT MEANINGFUL WORK LOOKS LIKE

From building a business to helping clients build their futures, our financial representatives find meaning in their work every day. Read their stories to see how hard work, flexibility, and passion can push Northwestern Mutual and your career forward.

Ben Thomas – Northwestern Mutual - Rapid City

Originally from Maryland, Ben Thomas began his adult journey enrolled in college. Six weeks in, at the age of 18, he felt called to pursue a greater personal challenge. Seeking the toughest crucible he could find, he chose to serve his country by joining the United States military. Over the next 20 years, Ben completed multiple deployments throughout the Middle East, building a career defined by discipline, leadership, and unwavering commitment to mission.

His service eventually brought him to Ellsworth Air Force Base. Upon retiring from the military in 2021, Ben chose to make the Black Hills his permanent home alongside his wife and their four children.

Throughout his military career, Ben developed a reputation as a trusted advisor to leadership. His ability to analyze complex situations, build structured plans, and guide strategic decisionmaking became a hallmark of his professional identity. When he learned of an opportunity with Northwestern Mutual, he

recognized a natural transition-one that allowed him to apply decades of experience toward helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve financial growth and long-term security.

Ben describes himself as highly process-oriented rather than someone who “shoots from the hip.” He prioritizes building genuine relationships and takes the time to understand each client’s goals, values, and needs. Through collaboration, he designs clear, actionable financial plans tailored to each client’s future. He finds great satisfaction seeing clients implement his recommendations, knowing he has impacted their lives by leaving them in a significantly better place because of it.

Ben is also an experienced woodworker; a craft rooted in his childhood. Growing up in a home where his grandfather built much of the family’s furniture, woodworking became both a skill and a passion. Today, Ben creates handcrafted pieces he proudly describes as “furniture your grandchildren will fight over.” Each project is carefully planned, expertly constructed, and built to withstand whatever life brings-a philosophy he carries into his financial guidance.

Ben has served on the Board of Directors for South Dakota Service Dogs, since July 2024. He contributes to the organization’s mission, which often involves training service dogs for individuals with disabilities, including military veterans. Ben is also an avid music enthusiast. He cites Metallica’s Black Album as the greatest album ever recorded, with AC/DC’s Back in Black a close second.

At the core of Ben’s character is a passion for persevering mastery in everything he pursues whether it’s providing financial advice, woodworking, or loving his family.

Ben Thomas, CFP®, RICP®, CEPA® Financial Advisor

909 Saint Joseph St Ste 202 Rapid City, SD 57701

ben.thomas@nm.com

605.718.6577

Youth Classes at the Dahl Arts Center

Early Release Art Class

When RCAS are out of school, Art Class is in session Get hands on instruction to express your child’s creativity!

Afterschool Art Club

Every Thursday, for 3-5 Graders from 3:30-5:30. Students can create every single week! th

Springing into spring Art Camp

Art Camps at the Dahl Arts Center are fun-filled days full of art projects, friends, and giggles. Kids will be guided through multiple projects by skilled art educators. Students will need to bring a sack lunch and clothes to get messy in!

By Sarah Krecklow

For many adult children, the realization begins quietly.

It may be expired groceries in the refrigerator, difficulty following familiar recipes, a missed appointment, or a parent who no longer enjoys activities they once loved. These moments rarely happen all at once. Instead, they appear gradually, leaving families unsure whether what they are seeing is normal aging or a sign that additional support may be needed.

Experts encourage families to look for patterns instead of isolated events. Subtle signs may include changes in routine, difficulty managing medications, increased forgetfulness, or a home that feels harder to maintain. Social withdrawal can also signal a need for more connection and structure, both of which play an important role in overall well-being.

More families are beginning conversations earlier, not because something is wrong, but because they want to protect independence and quality of life before challenges grow. Aging brings change, and recognizing when support may be helpful is often a proactive step rather than a reactive one. Starting these conversations early allows families to move forward with clarity and compassion, turning what can feel like a difficult transition into an opportunity to gain connection, support, and reassurance along the way.

These moments can be emotional for adult children. Many carry an unspoken promise: I said I would always take care of them myself. Along with love often comes guilt and uncertainty. Asking for help is not failure. In many cases, it helps protect independence while supporting safety and daily quality of life.

Support today looks different from what it once did. Care communities do not resemble those from when our parents were young. Families are discovering that support varies by life stage and care needs. Some begin with day programs or respite support that provide structure and social engagement. Others explore an assisted living lifestyle that blends independence with personalized assistance. For individuals experiencing memory changes, a memory care neighborhood like the Woodlands at Peaceful Pines offers familiarity and consistency designed around dignity and connection. When health needs become more

“WHEN FAMILIES ASK FOR HELP, IT DOES NOT MEAN A PARENT IS LOSING INDEPENDENCE. OFTEN, IT HELPS THEM STAY INDEPENDENT LONGER.”

complex, additional medical support can provide reassurance for both individuals and families. Understanding the options available often reduces anxiety. Instead of viewing support as a single decision, families can begin to see it as a flexible path that evolves over time.

Independence does not disappear when support increases. It evolves. With the right environment, many older adults experience renewed confidence, stronger social connections, and a greater peace of mind. At communities like Peaceful Pines Senior Living, support centers on relationships and meaningful engagement. Residents are encouraged to maintain independence while knowing assistance is available when needed, creating a strong sense of belonging and purpose.

Many families are surprised by how relationships improve once caregiving is no longer carried alone. Visits become less about completing tasks and more about enjoying time together. Adult children return to being sons and daughters again, and relationships feel lighter and more connected.

Having the right guidance can make all the difference. Local aging resources, support groups, healthcare professionals, and trusted educational tools help families better understand their options and move forward with confidence. Resource libraries, including those offered through Peaceful Pines, provide practical support as families begin exploring next steps, reminding them they do not have to navigate this season alone.

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IN THE HILLS

MEET RICH HEGRE

THE GOLD STANDARD OF LOCAL EXPERTISE

In the world of Black Hills real estate, there is a distinct difference between a transactional agent and a true advisor. For Rich Hegre of Engel & Völkers Black Hills, that difference is defined by two decades of local insight, a relentless work ethic, and a lifelong commitment to “making a difference.”

Following a banner year, Rich was recently awarded the prestigious Engel & Völkers President’s Circle for 2025. Ranking as a top producer in both sales volume and units, Rich has solidified his reputation as a powerhouse in the region’s residential and commercial markets. Yet, for this Rapid City native, the accolades are simply a byproduct of his core philosophy: “Talent never outweighs hard work.”

ROOTS IN THE HILLS

Rich’s journey did not begin in real estate, but his entrepreneurial spirit was evident from the start. Growing up in Rapid City, his first venture began at the age of nine when he sold night-crawlers (business card included) to local fishermen. That early lesson in service avnd supply eventually led him to South Dakota State University, where he earned degrees in Music and Health.

Before transitioning to real estate 20 years ago, Rich spent a decade in national sales and management. This background in education and corporate leadership allowed him to hone a results-driven mindset that ensures his clients always have a competitive edge in today’s market.

A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE

While many recognize Rich for his real estate signs, others know him from the sidelines and the dugout. A pillar of the local sports community for over 30 years, Rich began coaching at just 16 years old. From baseball and softball to soccer and volleyball, his influence on local youth has been profound.

The pinnacle of his coaching tenure came in 2014, when he managed the local Little League team on their historic run to the Little League World Series. That experience was built on teamwork and perseverance. It is the same energy he brings to the closing table today.

This dedication to service runs in the family. Rich and his wife, Pam, have raised their son, Matthew, with those same Black Hills values. Matthew, who recently celebrated his engagement, now serves the community as a nurse. Whether he is coaching a team or navigating a complex property transaction, Rich remains dedicated to the success and wellbeing of the families he serves.

PERSONALIZED SERVICE, PROVEN RESULTS

At Engel & Völkers, Rich leverages his deep-seated local roots to offer a personalized approach that is rare in today’s fast-paced market. He understands that a home in the Black Hills is not just a piece of property; it is a lifestyle.

When he is not advocating for his clients, you can find Rich embracing the very best of the Hills by fly fishing mountain streams, hitting the golf course, camping or enjoying quality time with his family.

Rich Hegre knows that finding a home in the Hills is about finding a place to build a life. Backed by 20 years of experience and a lifetime of local roots, Rich is ready to help you navigate your next move with integrity and insight. Call him today to discover how a true local advisor can make all the difference in your real estate journey.

RICH HEGRE Broker ENGEL & VÖLKERS BLACK HILLS

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