2011: a year in review, part one

Finding bullets — One of the biggest stories of the year was the Wild Bunch gunfight reenactment which injured three tourists. The incident brought several government agencies to the area to try to figure out exactly what happened, including the Pennington County Sheriff’s Department, Rapid City police, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, Division of Criminal Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigations Above, a federal officer relies on help from a metal detector to find bullets that were used during the reenactment. [PN File Photo]

It was another year full of achievement, tragedy and everything in between in Hill City. From January to December, events continually happened that made news and shaped Hill City in 2011. This is a month-by-month recap of those events that made the news in our county this past year. The first part of the review recaps events from January through June.
January
• The Prevailer named Dennis and Kim Krull the 2010 Citizens of the Year. The Krulls were given the honor because of their involvement in the community with not only their grocery store, but also their support for the Boys and Girls Club and various churches. The Krulls have also hosted and supported functions for cancer research.
• Hill City Superintendent Mark Naugle was involved in a car accident and was hospitalized in Rapid City. He was later released, with disclosed injuries. Pennington County Lt. Cory Brubakken said Naugle was on his way home from Spearfish when he went off the road near mile marker 91 on Highway 385, north of Three Forks. The automobile collided with a tree, resulting in significant front-end damage to the car.
• The Hill City Area Chamber of Commerce received more Triple B (Bed, Board and Booze) funds to help bring more events to the city. Major events to bring back were: Heart of the Hills Celebration and Logging show, the Hill City Area Quilt Show and Sale and Kris Kringle Bazaar.
• Keystone evaluated its repair needs at an end of the month meeting. On the list was Third Street Bridge, which needed repairs before tourism season kicked off.
• Eileen Heald, owner of Double D Gifts, sold her business, formally on Main Street, and moved to Indiana. Heald and her husband, Eldon, bought the shop in 1995, but after Eldon passed, Heald single-handedly operated the store. She sold the store to move closer to her family.
• The Hill City Parent Involvement, Parent Teacher Organization (PIPTO) hosted the second annual science fair. The organization likes to organize science fairs for the skills children learn when researching a project and for the parent involvement in the project.
• United Way of the Black Hills reached its fundraiser goal for the Southern Hills, with over $89,000 raised.
• The Lady Rangers finished second in the Black Hills Conference for basketball.
• The Hill City debate team took second place for class C in a tournament in Newcastle, Wyo. The topic for the debate was, “Resolved: In the United States, plea bargaining undermines the criminal justice system.” Points are given in six categories, ranging from content to delivery.
• Daryl Kunzi won the ‘Beatin’ the Winter Blues’ chili cook off contest with his “Choo Choo Chili.” Cooking chili is a hobby for Kunzi, who regularly competes in chili contests around the Midwest.
February
• Mark Naugle resigned from his position as superintendent of the Hill City School District. The school board unanimously voted to accept his resignation.
• The Boys and Girls Club hired new staff and looked to change programs. Andrew Hecht assumed the position of director in mid-February and planned on expanding the sports program for the club. Meghan Young started working with the after-school kids and was planning to add nature and animal activities to the club.
• The Heart of the Hills Snowmobile club hosted a poker run at the end of February. The tentative riding plan was to begin near Deerfield Road and ride into Wyoming. Riders had certain checkpoints to stop at along the way and were encouraged to pick up souvenirs at each checkpoint.
• The Hill City Debate team took first place at the prestigious “Camel Classic Speech and Debate Tournament.” Two members from the debate team also took home individual first place finishes: Kaitlynn Langenbau and Mackenzie Swanson captured first place in Public Forum Debate.
• Dominick Schooler, 112 pounds, was the new district champion in wrestling. His win came after wrestling Brent O’Dell, whom Schooler described as “the best wrestler he has ever seen.”
March
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Jacob quits fighting for helicopter location

By Bev Pechan

Mike Jacob says enough is enough. He said he really thought when he showed up at a Pennington County Commission meeting this month that he would get approval for his long-awaited conditional use permit for his Black Hills Aerial Adventures helicopter tour business, one of the most popular commercial attractions in the Black Hills. In fact, Jacob said, he even had an assurance from commissioner Nancy Troutman that she was going to vote this time to approve his request.
“I did a lot of work. I wasted a lot of people’s time,” Jacob told the Prevailer last week after seeing his proposal fail one more time. Jacob said he and representatives from the FAA and DOT, plus neighbors sat at the commissioners’ meeting for four and a half hours before their turn came at the end of the commissioners’ agenda only to be turned down again. Jacob has presented his side of the story multiple times, volunteered to make concessions and build noise barriers and offered to open his books and operating procedures to officials to show them that he ran a professional business that was held in high regard by authorities and his customers.
At a public meeting in October, Charlie Johnson of the Pennington County Planning Commission said he had looked over details of Jacob’s operation and had changed his mind favorably toward giving Jacob a green light for use of the property he was considering for purchase on U.S. Highway 16 west of Rockerville. Neighbors weren’t convinced, so Jacob brought in one of his helicopters, giving rides to his skeptics. Later at the same meeting, Jacob talked about his proposed flight pattern and the placement of buildings and construction of buffer zones and tree barriers to control sound.
Several residents in housing areas on both sides of the highway voiced an opinion that having Jacob there would ruin the neighborhood and its home values. Jacob disagreed, but remained low-key. The 6.5 acre parcel is currently zoned for highway service and could be used for a number of businesses which could be more detrimental to the area, Jacob said, which means that another type of business at that site could produce noise and traffic day and night and year-round, whereas his business operats seasonally and at certain hours of the day.
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Keystone board ties up end-of-year loose ends

By Bev Pechan

After a busy and uncertain year as regards tourism numbers, the Keystone Town Board agreed at its Dec. 21 meeting that they fared quite well overall. Keystone is one of and perhaps the only South Dakota community which relies totally on sales tax revenue for its annual operating budget. Board president David Cofoid announced that tax receipts were down only two percent overall for the year, which was less than was anticipated. Last fall, the city agreed to increase its share of the B & B tax to the Keystone Chamber of Commerce at its request, but balked at allowing it to ask for additional funding in perpetuity, citing the uncertainty of future revenues. Cofoid also briefly mentioned that the removal of the helicopter tour operation from the city will reduce the amount of sales tax the city receives in the future.
Cofoid continued by saying, “We now own the sewer plant.” Keystone has hired Dar Coy, who formerly ran the operation for South West Water, to take over as wastewater systems manager for the city. He will work with city public works employees on related water issues as well. The city was allowed to close its lease-purchase agreement earlier than anticipated due to a restructuring of South West’s portfolio and its willingness to sell several holdings, including Keystone.
Pennington County deputy Terry Comrie was present to hear a complaint from the Dec. 7 meeting when resident Dave Murra gave an impassioned plea for better traffic control at areas where the school bus loads and unloads. Murra and others stated that certain motorists routinely speed through parts of Keystone during the time when children are loading and unloading from the school bus and stop signs are not placed on many side streets to help remedy the situation.
At the earlier meeting, Murra said some smaller children who board by the Keystone Country Store do not always remember to look before running into the street and he was afraid that someone’s child would be hit. Murra takes his two girls to the bus stop personally and picks them up at night, but, he says, he has nearly been run down a few times himself and was clearly agitated by the apparent lack of safety measures in effect. “When Jack (Mann, former deputy assigned to Keystone) was here, he followed the buses to the edge of town,” Murra stated. Comrie, when confronted with the complaint, replied, “I’m trying to watch,” listing the locations he usually uses when he is in town. It was suggested that he try to spend more time near the boarding areas when there are students present.
Public works employee Jerry Przybylski reported on a used Ford F350 dually pickup he would like to see the city purchase from Surplus Property, prompting trustee Sandi McLain to comment: “It scares me coming into this year. One, we’re over budget, and two, the pickup is over what we have budgeted.” Przybylski replied that his department’s budget had not been spent and we are “way below” the amount set aside, he said.
“Just because the money is there doesn’t mean you have to spend it,” McLain countered.
Coy defended Przybylski by stating “This one has tool boxes.” He went on to explain that with the town’s present vehicles, they seem to always be making trips back to the shop for the proper tools needed when conducting maintenance or emergency repairs. We are chasing tools all the time, the men agreed.
McLain then questioned if the city needed that many vehicles, to which Coy repeated, “We take two pickups to a job now so we can run back and forth after tools.”
“All I am thinking,” McLain said, “is we’re adding assets.” Cofoid agreed with Coy and Przybylski and stated that the city should probably surplus one of the town’s present trucks and that it should probably be the Ford Ranger, as it was not as economical to run as initially thought. Coy said the truck they were interested in is a former military vehicle with service records and new is a $60,000 truck. While he didn’t disclose the year of the truck, Coy said the complete cost to the city would be around $18,000. The board voted in favor of the new purchase.
It was agreed that city employees would have their after-Christmas dinner party at BaRlee’s Supper Club on Jan. 14 on the condition that the city not pay the cost of dinner for spouses and guests. Trustee McLain said she would also pay for her meal, rather than use city funds.
In other business, finance officer Vanessa Row offered to donate 15 hours of sick leave to other employees and city clerk Bobbie Johnson said she would donate 40 hours to librarian Diane Rohde, who is on temporary leave of absence.
The next meeting of the Keystone Town Board will take place at the community center on Wednesday, Jan. 4, at 7 p.m.

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Rangers receive LNI awards

LNI Honors — Derek Skillingstad was again named to the all-tourney team for the LNI and was also an LNI scholarship recipient. [Submitted Photo]

Ranger pride — The Hill City Cheerleaders took 1st place in the stunting competition at the LNI tournament. Pictured from left are Taylor French, Kaitlinn Verchio, Hannah Lesewski, Tayden Welsch, Sydney Songstad, Matea Alexander, Katie Lewis and Lexi Hanson. Coach Kerry Britton is not pictured. [Submiitted Photo]

LNI Honors — Kala McDonald was selected to the girls all-tourney team for the LNI. [Submitted Photo]

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Rudolph talks reindeer games

Reindeer Games — Reporter Jason Ferguson talks to Santa’s front man, Rudolph, in an exclusive interview. The red-nosed reindeer talked about his job, rumors and his personal life.

By Jason Ferguson

With Christmas only days away, things are busier than ever at Santa’s workshop. Before Santa and his trusty reindeer take flight, however, the Custer County Chronicle was able to land an interview with the “most famous reindeer of all,” Rudolph the Red Nosed reindeer. Rudolph sat down with our Jason Ferguson to discuss red noses, rooftop landings and other Christmas-related topics.
Jason: OK, let’s get to it. Why is your nose red?
Rudolph: Well, it isn’t any one thing. It’s a little bit magic, a little bit of a birth mark, and a little bit allergies. I’m constantly blowing my nose. I go through a box of Kleenex every few days. Hay fever.
Jason: Is there a lot of pressure being at the lead of the sleigh?
Rudolph: Not really. With today’s technology, we don’t even really need to know where we’re going. GPS and autopilot take us where we need to go. Sure, I still light the way, but Garmin leads the way.
Jason: How much of the “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” song is true?
Rudolph: Some of it is true. Some of it has been embellished over the years.
Jason: Which parts are embellished?
Rudolph: Well, for starters, the other reindeer play Magic the Gathering and Parcheesi. I could not care less if they let me join in their reindeer games.
Jason: What about the “Then one foggy Christmas Eve.....” part?
Rudolph: Well, that’s partly true. When we left that night, it was actually a crystal-clear night. Me being a rookie, I was close to the sleigh, toward the back of the formation. Dasher was in the lead. But then, when we got to Los Angeles, we couldn’t hardly see where we were going. But it wasn’t fog—it was smog. I was bumped up to the front of the sleigh because of my nose, and the rest is history.
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Rendezvous scheduled for summertime

By Bev Pechan and Carol Walker

In a continuing effort to promote Hill City, Deb Bruce, HCACC director, and Mary Jo Marcy, chamber member, proposed a new August event to the Hill City Council at their meeting last Tuesday night. Dubbing it the “Rendezvous of the August Moon” Arts Festival, the duo explained the festival to the council, seeking approval for the special event.
The weekend festival is scheduled for Aug. 17-19 and seeks to showcase history, art, foods and ecology of the Black Hills area with the center of the event staged at the Hill City Visitor Information Center (VIC).
“The weekend after the Rally and before school starts is really dead and we thought this would be a good time for this event. Local visual artists and writers’ booths are open to painters, printmakers, sketch artists, fabric artists, wood carvers, stone carvers, quilters, leather artisans, potters, photographers, metal artists, basket weavers, blacksmiths, jewelry artisans, spinners and weavers and musical instrument makers who create native drums and flutes, dulcimers and stringed instruments and are willing to demonstrate their craft.
She said the focus of the weekend is education. Rendezvous people will live there through the weekend, eat together, have one group campfire and perform activities consistent with that time period. When asked if there would be any shooting, Marcy responded, “No. No guns or weapons will be allowed.”
During the weekend, the chamber would also like to host a Plein Aire event as the sponsors believe the scenery and the rendezvous people would provide subject matter for painting. Native heritage would also be represented with a teepee showing that way of life and could also be a story teller’s tent for period children’s stories. Native drummers, dancers, flute players and artists would also demonstrate their skills. Another group, the Dakota Artists Guild, had already expressed an interest in doing print-making with people who attend.
The intent is to have activity not only at the VIC, but all over town. Organizers are hopeful there will be artists, poets and musicians staged throughout the town and they will rotate into the VIC area.
Parking will be closed at the VIC with visitors encouraged to park at Major Lake, the baseball field and downtown. According to Bruce a shuttle will be enlisted to take people from parking areas to downtown businesses and the VIC.
“We hope to make a little money for the chamber by selling tickets that include the shuttle ride. We also want to sponsor a logo contest with the chosen artist featured and available to sign commemorative souvenirs of the event and then use that logo on T-shirts, cloth bags and cups to sell during the weekend,” said Bruce.
The group is also considering the addition of informational booths supporting the ecology of the region, such as the US Forest Service, Game, Fish and Parks, Native and natural horticulture and the geology and paleontology of the area.
By a unanimous vote, council members gave the chamber representatives the green light to move ahead with the Rendezvous of the August Moon.
Etzkorn says committees are now being formed to accomplish the orchestration of this new event. So far, the Mountain man and re-enactment portion is being chaired by Pat and Joe Balzak Heart of the Hills Antiques and Chris Voyles, who actively participates in other rendezvous’ held in the region. Wilma Behm and Karen Carlson are co-chairs of the writers and storytellers’ division, the Dakota Artists Guild and Tommie Leenknecht are in charge of the Plein Air exhibition and Mary Jo Marcy is in charge of artists’ booths, with other committees and chair person volunteers presently being sought. For more information, contact Denise Etzkorn at the Hill City Chamberof Commerce, 574-2368.
Piggybacking on the new event,came a request from Bruce for additional 2012 funding for the chamber. The chamber director expressed appreciation for the monetary support of the city and also presented an extensive Profit and loss budget overview to the council.
Criteria for additional funds is based on, but not limited to: 1) $10,000 for a proposal to hire a part-time events coordinator who would chair, coordinate, help facilitate and oversee all major events and assist with general VIC duties; 2) $10,000 for additional marketing which would include creating and printing a tri-fold brochure as well as other advertising opportunities for promoting Hill City events; 3) $2,500 to promote the Black Hills Film Festival.
Since she was new to the job, Bruce wanted to be hands-on with the events this past year in order to get a feel for what goes on with each one. Now she believes it is important that the chamber hire a separate events coordinator.
“I was that person this year, but I’d like to expand my position and not personally be so hands-on. I would like to go to trade shows to promote Hill City and do other things like spend more time on logo wear,” said Bruce.
Councilman Jason Gillaspie said, “I could see us giving you part now and then wait to see what Triple B money comes in through the year. Typically it is later in the year when a request for additional funds is made.”
Becky King, city finance officer, confirmed that, saying that a request for an additional $20,000 was made in May 2011. The council budgeted $80,000 for the chamber for this year and Mayor Dave Gray said they have never gone over $100,000.
With deficits in their current budget and proposals for the future, Bruce, on behalf of the chamber, requested an additional $30,500. The council voted 3-1 to approve an additional $5,000 now with an invitation for Bruce to return at the end of January to talk again.
The council also voted to replace the furnace at the VIC that heats the basement and the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum on the upper level. Brett McMacken, city administrator, said it has been worked on multiple times and a lot of money is being spent just coaxing it along.
Councilman John Johnson asked about the status of the school parking lot. He said he had received two calls regarding the illegal parking on Railroad Avenue during school events. Johnson was under the impression that with the additional square footage added at the school, a parking lot was required.
“I don’t think we put a time limit on this. I think the requirement was to buy property, not to build a parking lot right away,” said Gray.
McMacken suggested there be discussion with school officials and that parents be informed about parking on Railroad Ave. before law enforcement comes into the picture.
In other business, McMacken said interviews continue for recruitment of a city librarian, and Gray reported on attendance at the All Aboard Hill City meeting where branding and joint marketing were discussed.
The next city council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 27, at 5:30 p.m. at city hall.

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Churches celebrate Christmas

With Christmas right around the corner, many churches in the area are opening their doors for special services, classes and plays on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and welcome residents and visitors alike to join them.
Hill City
• Community Lutheran Church will have Christmas Eve services at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Christmas Day services will be at the normal 9 a.m. time.
• The Lighthouse Assembly of God will have a Christmas Eve candlelight service at 5:30 p.m. There will be a Christmas Day service at 10:30 a.m.
• Little White Church will hold a Christmas Eve service at 6 p.m. and regular Sunday services on Christmas Day at 9 a.m.
• Our Savior’s Evangelical Lutheran Church will have a Christmas Eve Song Service at 5 p.m.
• St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church will have Christmas Eve Mass (bilingual) at 5 p.m. There will be no services Christmas Day.
Keystone
• Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church will hold Christmas Day Mass at 8 a.m.
• United Church of Christ will have Christmas Eve services at 5 p.m. and Christmas Day services at its normal time, 10 a.m.

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Is there truth behind ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’?

By Carrie Moore

One of my favorite things about the holiday season is the Christmas carols. I can remember learning the songs in elementary school and performing them for our parents during concerts. However, there was always one carol that baffled me — ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas.’
What in the world do French hens and swimming swans have to do with Christmas? Why were the lords leaping? Why won’t the partridge come out of the tree? And what sane woman would want all these gifts? Just give me the five golden rings, and we’ll call it good!
It wasn’t until high school — thanks to a dramatic English teacher who believed everything had a hidden meaning for something else — when I learned more about the symbolism of the song.
From 1558 until 1829, many in England, Ireland, France and Spain were not allowed to openly practice their faith. During that era, someone wrote this carol as a way for children to understand religion, without being too open about the topic.
The partridge in a pear tree symbolized Jesus. Two turtledoves represented the Old and New Testaments. Three French hens stand for faith, love and hope. The four calling birds represent the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Five golden rings recalled the Torah, otherwise known as Law — the first five books of the Old Testament. Six geese-a-laying stood for the six days of creation. Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit: Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership and Mercy. Eight maids a-milking were the eight beatitudes. Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self Control. Ten lords a-leaping represent the Ten Commandments. Eleven pipers piping stood for the 11 faithful disciples. And finally, the 12 drummers drumming represent the 12 points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.
There’s been much speculation about this myth for years. Some believe the song was created to help children count.
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Todd Edward Mattson

Todd Mattson was born Sept. 10, 1976, in Gillette, Wyo., to Eric Mattson and Judy (Halley) Dalton. He lived in Casper, Wyo., for a short time and also in Wakefield, Neb., with his mother and step-father. He graduated from Wakefield High School in 1994. In the mid-1990s, Todd moved back to Gillette, Wyo., and began working in the oil fields. At the time of his passing, Todd was employed by Swick Oil.
In 2000, Todd married Tracy Krininger and although the couple would later divorce, from this union Todd received his most precious gift, his beloved daughter, Hayley, whom he took great pride in raising. Todd was a rockhound who loved to spend time in the outdoors with family and friends hunting for rocks, as well as camping and fishing. He was a big football fan and he especially enjoyed going to Denver Bronco and Wyoming Cowboy games.
Todd Mattson, age 35, of Gillette, Wyo., passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011, at Campbell County Memorial Hospital after a severe asthma attack.
Todd is survived by his mother and step-father, Judy and Steve Dalton of Keystone; daughter, Hayley Jo Mattson; sister, Shari Mattson, Rapid City; brother, Toby Mattson, Gillette, Wyo.; step-brother, PJ Dalton. Ogden, Utah; grandmothers Lois Halley, Keystone, and Myrtle Mattson, Hill City; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father, Eric Mattson, and by grandfathers James Halley and Clarence Mattson.
Memorial services for Todd Edward Mattson will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, at United Church of Christ in Keystone with Pastor Charles Landon officiating. At the family's request, cremation has already taken place.
A memorial has been established for Todd’s daughter, Hayley Mattson. Memorials and condolences may be sent in Todd's name to Walker Funeral Home 410 Medical Arts Court, Gillette, WY 82716. Condolences may also be sent via the website to www.walkerfuneralgillette.com.

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Ladys take second in Paha Sapa bracket at LNI

LNI Runner-ups — The Lady Rangers brought home the second place trophy in the Paha Sapa bracket at Lakota Nation Invitational Tournament last week. The Lady Rangers finished the tourney with a record of two wins and two losses. They lost the first game in close fashion to Red Cloud with a score of 49 to 46. They went on to win the next two games, beating Omaha Nation by a score of 52 to 33, then winning against the Flandreau Indians by a score of 44 to 40. In the championship game they lost to McLaughlin by a score of 55 to 48. Kala McDonald was named to the LNI all Tourney team. [PN Photo/Scott Wooldridge]

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Residents get chance to voice concerns and ask questions

Taking questions — Charlie Johnson, chair member of the vacation home committee, an exploratory board branched from the Planning Department, hosted the vacation home ordinance meeting Wednesday, Dec. 7. Johnson not only answered and explained questions from the crowd, but also directed questions and comments to the appropiate department heads.Members Barb Landers and Karen Hall listen and take notes. [PN Photo/CARRIE MOORE]

By Carrie Moore

Pennington County Commissioners and Hill City officers answered questions from a packed room of about 50 people regarding vacation home rentals. Many in the audience were supporters of vacation homes, claiming that not only are they positive for the economy, but a gateway to meeting new people and helping the local community grow economically. Others, however, do not appreciate the use of vacation homes in residential areas.
The ordinance, which has been in the works since the beginning of summer, will modify existing zoning restrictions that limit vacation rentals to general commercial and highway service districts. The amendment will also monitor any owner who rents homes to vacationers for more than 14 days per year.
The amendment also requires vacation rentals to have conditional use
permits, but would allow vacation home rentals in general areas and low density and suburban residential areas. The new ordinance sets quiet hours for vacation rentals, a minimum renter age, occupancy limits, signage requirements and other regulations.
Many wanted the zoning part of the amendment corrected. As it reads now, vacation homes cannot be within 300 feet from a residence. For some, this is hard, as many vacation homes are on the same property as a home and built to be near each other.
John Clark, Silver City, owns multiple cabins on his property and finds it hard to build on a lot within 50 feet of a residential place.
“Something needs to be addressed about this issue,” he said.
Perhaps the heavily discussed problem was the issue of signage. The amendment now calls for owners to place a sign outside of their property, stating the company, the words ‘vacation home rental’ and the owner’s name and contact number. Many thought this action would open the vacation homes to robberies, vandalism and unwelcome guests.
“I am very much against this measure,” Rodney Alexander, vacation homeowner since 1990, said. “I am in a rural area and I am opening myself to bad things by doing this.”
Larry McCaskell, owner of High County Guest Ranch, found this amendment to be helpful for visitors and a good idea.
“It makes it uniform for all vacation homes across the Black Hills,” he said. “It makes sense from a marketing and advertising viewpoint, too.”
Charlie Johnson, chairperson of the vacation home exploratory committee, said this amendment was the owner’s choice. However, the only thing required is the sign being placed outside when guests are occupying the home. Many found the task of posting and taking down the sign bothersome.
Homeowners were also in the crowd, fighting against the commercialization of vacation homes. One homeowner did not appreciate his next-door neighbor using their house as a bed and breakfast.
“It’s not acceptable,” he said. “I never know who will be there.”
In an effort to solve this problem, Dan Jennissen, director of Planning and Zoning Department for Pennington County, said the new amendments would require the vacation homeowner to send out a form to neighbors stating his intent.
“The vacation homeowner would have to send out forms with his intent and a contact number where he could be reached at all times of the day,” Jennissen said. “This form must also be updated every year.”
Other homeowners wondered who would enforce the new ordinance regulations. While many of the rules overlap with the state, Pennington County will be forced to regulate the laws.
“You can’t count on the state to look at the ordinance and regulate it,” Ken Davis, chairman of Pennington County Board of Commissioners, Commission District 1, said.
By law the commission must have two hearings on the matter before voting on the topic. However, Johnson believes the commissioners will discuss the matter in three hearings, where the commission has to totally deny or accept the new ordinance. He also hopes to have the matter resolved by February.
“Overall, I thought the meeting went well,” he said. “I gained new perspectives on the topic.”

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Missing fathers have more impact on families than previously believed

By Bev Pechan

On the website dad4kids.com, there is a list titled “Statistics of a Fatherless America,” a sobering 11-page look at compiled data which looks at dozens of ways children growing up in fatherless homes are short-changed from what might otherwise be seen as natural expectations in growing happily to adulthood.
Having a male authority figure in the home does not guarantee this, of course, but according to numerous studies done in past decades as America changes socially and culturally, this missing link has proven to be more important than was thought in past generations. The term “feminocracy” — meaning female-dominated households – has produced its own set of statistics, these studies have shown.
In the case of sexual abuse, a study of 156 child victims found that “the majority of the children came from disrupted or single-family homes” and that while stepfamilies made up “only about 10 percent of all families, 27 percent of abused children lived with either a stepfather or the mother’s boyfriend,” said the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, a part of the U.S. Dept. of Justice. In addition, a 1984 study in Lansing, Mich., determined that “49 percent of all child abuse cases are committed by single mothers.”
Lois Bittner lives just outside of Hill City. She and her late husband, Ben, have provided a foster home for over 350 disadvantaged children over 38 years. “Most of the kids in foster care do not have a father actively involved,” she said. “Little boys need a man in their lives. They hung around Ben and wanted to be with him all the time.” Lois laughed when she told about one youngster who was so in need of a father figure...

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Robert Daniel Winfield

Bob was born on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, 1959, in Moab, Utah. His parents are Wally Winfield (deceased 2006) and Danny (Murphy) Bergin (Tom), Hill City. He married Cynthia Wilenski Sept. 19, 1981, in Salt Lake City.
Education started in a oneroom school in the mountains above Gateway, Colo. He was a 1978 graduate of Grand County High School, Moab, with a BA in Industrial Arts, Southern Utah University. He worked as a machinist with lots of woodworking on the side.
Robert made hundreds of crosses to give to others: two at a time with the stipulation that one be passed on to a friend. Many were donated to youth organizations as fundraisers, even in Hill City. He requested that donations be taken, none were to be sold. Many were startled to hear him say in conversations “Thank you, Jesus,” but they soon realized he was sincere with his thanks. His faith came before all else. Many times, he quoted St. Francis of Assisi’s words, “Preach the Gospel always, if necessary, use words.” His actions always spoke louder than words. Yearly trips to Hill City and Mount Rushmore were the highlight of his year.
Diagnosed in the first grade with a congenital heart defect, faith and family kept Bob going through four major heart surgeries for the next 45 years, always with a joke to tell (or play on someone), a smile on his face and never a complaint about pain.
Bob Winfield died Nov. 27, 2011, at the University of Utah Medical Center cardiac unit. He was 52 years old.
Survivors are his mother, Danny (Tom) Bergin, Hill City; wife Cyndi Winfield; sons Staff Sgt. Daniel (Cheryl) Winfield USMC and Sgt. Andrew (Stacia) Winfield USMC; grandchildren Ashley and Brandon Winfield; siblings Cathy (Ken) Frame, Evanston, Wyo., Bill (Ann) Winfield, Reno, Nev., Mary (Mick) Graehler, Lexington, Ky., Liz Winfield, Los Angeles, Calif., and Jim Winfield, Wright, Wyo,; and 47 nieces and nephews.
Bob was preceded in death by his father and two brothers, Scott in 1989 and John in 2008.
Services were held at St. Olaf’s Catholic Church, Bountiful, Utah, on Dec. 3. Condolences may be sent to Cyndi Winfield, 225 W. Center, Bountiful, Utah 84010. Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association.

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Diabetes is an insidious predator, local family learns

Unexpected passing — Pam Couts died Nov. 7 in Gillette from complications of diabetes. Before her sudden death, Couts told her mother her body was tired and it was hard to fight the disease. [Submitted Photo]

By Bev Pechan

Pam Couts was a lively, active and beautiful girl who had friends and family who adored her. Like all teens, she was involved in many activities, both at school and in her everyday life, but at age 13, she was diagnosed with type I diabetes, and in Pam’s case, “brittle diabetes.”
Pam died Nov. 7 at age 19 at her brother’s home in Gillette, Wyo., of complications from the disease. As a young adult who wanted to experience freedom on her own, she had decided to move back to Wyoming from Hill City, where she grew up. She had only a short time before her unexpected death texted her mother saying she felt her body was worn out and it was becoming more and more difficult to deal with the illness as it continued to take over her life. Hospital admissions and medical emergencies were frequent and because Pam wanted to be independent, her mother, Patty Snyder, said, she did not always remember to monitor her blood sugar readings on a regular basis, relying instead on three injected medicines to stabilize her condition and she rejected the idea of having to be hooked to an insulin pump. Measuring food portions on a daily basis was also difficult for her to maintain when she was out having a good time with friends, her mother said.
Snyder said Pam did not really take her disease “seriously” until about a year ago, when she spent a lot of time in and out of ICU and her blood sugar read 1475. “She was mad at the world. She didn’t want to have it (diabetes) and was in denial,” Snyder said. “She was angry a lot.”

Available only in the print version of the Hill City Prevailer, to subscribe call 605.574.2538.

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Elementary School Infested with holiday fun

Pictures from the play "Royal Christmas Infestation" held Dec. 12 at the Hill City Elementary School.

INFESTED AT CHRISTMAS - The audience of parents, grandparents and friends were treated to a "Royal Christmas Infestation" at the elementary Christmas program Monday night. Kindergarten through third grade students created and wore costumes reflective of a variety of bugs. In front, from left are Hope Schroeder, Maggie Taylor, James Petty, Whitney Edwards and Anna Dean. [PN Photo/CAROL WALKER]

INFESTED AT CHRISTMAS - The audience of parents, grandparents and friends were treated to a "Royal Christmas Infestation" at the elementary Christmas program Monday night. Assisted by Lori Jones and the art department, kindergarten through third grade students created and wore costumes reflective of a variety of bugs.[PN Photo/CAROL WALKER]

PIPERS PIPING - Fifth grade students created flutes from PVC pipe and played the instruments as part of the elementary Christmas program on Monday night. This fall, fourth and fifth grade children studied music and art from the Baroque and Classical periods, which was also reflected in their 17th and 18th century costumes. From left are Queen Joey Fowler, King Nick Klima, Grace Gray, Taylor Edwards, Jessica Welu and Elissa Gruszynski. [PN Photo/Carol Walker]

BREAKING TO CHEW - Termites invaded the elementary Christmas program on Monday night and evoked a favorable crowd reaction as the five little bugs did a little break dancing and later sang with all the other bugs. They are, from left, Trace Houser, Jonathon Munoz, Cruz Busetti, Alex Carlson and Isaac Dean. Behind them is the Queen Bee, Kadyn Comer. [PN Photo/CAROL WALKER]

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Hill City receives new ambulance

New features — The newest ambulance, a red, 4-wheel drive rig. The ambluance is equipped with an air ride system, which not only makes riding in the back easier, but it also lowers the back cab for technicians bringing patients in and out of the back. [PN Photo/CARRIE MOORE]

By Carrie Moore

Hill City Ambulance Service recently received a new ambulance in addition to the two-year-old rig.
Slade Swedlund, executive director of Hill City Ambulance Service, Inc., said this new ambulance was desperately needed after the old ambulance was involved in a vehicle crash.
“The rig involved in the accident was taken out of service this past summer,” Swedlund said.
The ambulance service worked with its insurance agency to purchase a new rig before the end of the year. In order to have two rigs in service, Hill City Ambulance Service rented a 4-wheel drive ambulance with money from the insurance agency. With the money soon to reach its cap and the cost of repairs for the old ambulance, which were significantly more than the value of the rig, Swedlund decided to purchase a new ambulance by the end of the year.
“With the weather starting to change, we had to make a quick decision,” he said. “It made more sense to buy new. We bought this new ambulance because it was available at the right time and had all the qualities we were looking for.”
Most of the money used to purchase the new ambulance came from the insurance agency, with the rest coming from a loan taken out by the ambulance service. Swedlund priced different rigs with the manufacturer and tried a couple demos before deciding on a red ambulance equipped with 4-wheel drive and an air ride system.
“Not a lot of ambulance services have 4-wheel drive equipped rigs,” he said. “Because of our location and areas we cover, I felt it was extremely important to consider.”
The air ride system helps control the 4-wheel drive, as many consider the ride in the back bumpy. The system also automatically lowers the back of the ambulance when the double doors are opened.
“This makes it easier for the technicians who are working back there to get patients in and out.”
Two emergency medical technicians are always on call, while volunteers are sometimes called in to help. Usually, two technicians ride in the back of the rig, with more sometimes tagging along in another vehicle.
The old ambulance will soon be put up for bids. While the vehicle cannot be used as an ambulance, it is still acceptable for a work vehicle or could be purchased for its diesel motor. The Hill City Ambulance Service hopes to use the money from the bid to use toward the loan.

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Missing and absent fathers seen as one of society’s biggest problems

By Bev Pechan

Sit down for a few minutes with Jack Jewett of The Gathering Place and he will tell you that one of the major crises to face our country today is too often the absence of a strong father figure in the home.
In terms of dollars and cents, the costs to the American taxpayer for social intervention and programming to combat this trend is staggering. In terms of emotional turmoil, it is totally devastating.
Jewett says that men are capable of working within relationships, but often they do not know how to do this. This is one of the reasons he feels his weekly coffee and conversations for guys is important. More than anyone else, the male as a role model has more lasting influence in the lives of his children than anyone else, data has shown repeatedly. Jewett, who, in addition to sharing prayer ministries in Hill City, also serves as chaplain at Rapid City Regional Hospital and juvenile detention facilities and has conducted ministerial studies involving the family since he and his wife, Mary, established The Gathering Place in Hill City about four years ago.
And, Jewett admits, his younger years spent in Texas were not always on the right path, but after attending a weekly Christian Business Men’s Connection meeting in 1989 and hearing about relationship-building events himself, he began to see what he and many other men were lacking in their daily lives. It fit, and he knew where the remainder of his life’s work was headed.
“Men need to be in an accountability group for the rest of their lives,” Jewett has said, adding that men need to be in the company of other men who are willing to talk about how they feel, just as women do, but that many want to avoid any unpleasantness or conversation that will direct others to remind them of their responsibilities to themselves and their families.
Available only in the print version of the Hill City Prevailer, to subscribe call 605.574.2538.

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William “Bill” Robbins

William “Bill” Robbins, 67, Hill City, died Monday, Dec. 5, 2011 in Hill City.
Survivors include his wife, Margie, Hill City; mother, Ruby Robbins, Hill City; son, Jeffrey Robbins, Hellertown, P.a.; daughter, Heidi Long-Lind, Hill City; brother, Mark L. Robbins, Culpeper, V.a.; two sisters, Julie Robbins Johnson, Sturgis; Jeanne R. Robbins Tyler, Millerton, Okla.; and six grandchildren.
Services will be at 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 10, at the Little White Church in Hill City.
Burial will be at 1 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 10, at the Hill City Cemetery.
A memorial has been established to the Little White Church Building Fund.
His online guestbook is available to sign at www.osheimschmidt.com

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Edgar Irvine Winger

Edgar Irvine Winger was born in Ridgeway, Ontario, Canada on April 25, 1926, to Walter and Mary [Bort] Winger. He completed grade 13 in Ridgeway and received a scholarship to attend Ontario College of Arts in Toronto, Canada.
Ed became a U.S. citizen and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force where he served for six years working in information and intelligence. He was honorably discharged as a tech sergeant. After receiving a geological engineering degree in 1956 from the Colorado School of Mines at Golden, Colo., he worked in Worland, Wyo., where he met his wife-to-be, Janice Andersen. Janice and Ed were married in Moose, Wyo., in 1957. Ed was transferred to Talara, Peru, where he was employed by International Petrol Co. Their son Philip was born in 1958 in Talara.
The family moved to Belem, Para, Brazil, where Ed worked for Petrobras, the Brazilian oil monopoly, teaching Brazilian geologists well-site geology. In 1960, their son Michael was born in Belem.
Upon returning to the U.S., Winger was employed by the North Dakota Geological Survey in Bismarck, N.D., the Soil Conservation Service in Paoli, Ind., U.S. Forest Service in Elkins, W.V., U.S. Geological Survey in Casper, Wyo., and in Denver, Colo., where he was a Coal Classification Chief.
When Ed retired in 1981 a move was made to Hill City, S.D., where he enjoyed listening to classical music, painting, gardening and creating designs in stained glass. He was a voracious reader, always searching for truth.
Winger, 85, died at Rapid City Regional Hospital on Sunday, Nov. 27, 2011.
Winger is survived by his wife, Janice Winger of Hill City; son, Michael Winger, Tacoma Park, Md.; brother ,David Winger, Lac La Biche, Alberta, Canada; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, son Philip, four brothers and five sisters.
Edgar’s wishes were to be cremated and there are no services scheduled at the present time.
An online guestbook may be signed at www.osheimschmidt.com

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Keystone bones identified as Michael Berry

By Bev Pechan

After a long wait, closure is finally at hand for the family and friends of Michael Berry, Rockerville, who went missing in 2006, after he announced to acquaintances in Old Keystone that he was planning to hike up near the ruins of the Holy Terror Mine, a little more than a block away.
When then 61-year-old Berry did not return to his vehicle, parked near Halley’s Store, concern was raised and authorities were called in to search for him by sheriff’s helicopter and dogs, with no success. It was initially reported that Berry’s scent eventually led the dogs in the opposite direction, in the vicinity of the Big Thunder Mine. Mine owner Sandi McLain told the Prevailer several weeks ago that much of the creek around the mine was searched by authorities and the dogs to locate the scent there, but that the trail was evidently lost at some point.
Last spring, a logger came across skeletal human remains a short distance away that had apparently been there for some time. Fragments of clothing that could be used for identification suffered too much exposure to the elements and were decomposed to be of any use, it too was reported by Pennington County law enforcement. Of the searches made for identification of possible missing persons, Berry’s name came up as a likely victim, given the date of his disappearance and the location of the remains.
Though friends said they were unaware of any reasons Berry might want to disappear, it was noted that he was expecting a visit from a brother-in-law and left a note stating that the had gone hiking. Berry was relatively familiar with the area of Keystone he wanted to hike, his friends said, and thought little more about it.
Last March 21, the bones were discovered just off Iron Mountain Road in a remote and rugged area south of Keystone. Remains were sent to the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification and the results, recently announced, positively identified them to be Berry’s, based on DNA matches from a half-sister, which were compatible to Berry’s profile. No foul play was suspected and Pennington County considers the case closed, according to an official report released last week from Lt. Marty Graves of investigations.
Berry was artistic and a peaceful man, said some who knew him and of his desire to establish a peace park in the Black Hills. Several of his close friends, including Jacqui Hatzell of Rapid City, plan to have some sort of memorial gathering in his memory, but those plans are too delicate to speak of yet, Hatzell told the Prevailer by email. Upon hearing the news of Berry’s fate, Hatzell told the press, “I just miss my friend today. He was so much fun. He was just indescribable. I really miss him a lot.”

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Rangers place in top 10 at wrestling invitational

Going for the legs — Dominick Schooler, 113 lbs., tries to bring down his opponent from Custer. The Rangers finished in the top 10 at the Custer Wrestling Invitational this past weekend. [PN Photo/CARRIE MOORE]

By Carrie Moore

The Hill City High School wrestling team placed in the top 10 at the Custer Wrestling Invitational this past weekend. The Rangers posted over 90 team points, which is team record at the Custer Invite.
“We posted runner-up finishes by Dominick Schooler, Marshall Swanson and Mario Lupercio,” coach Chad Ronish said.
Brent O’dell placed 5th while Wyatt Huntley and Jesus Meza placed 8th at the 22 team tournament.
Mitchell Peterson, Daniel Florres, Christian Castro and Gage Hoedak also competed well for the Rangers.
The Rangers are in action this week on Thursday in a Black Hills Conference dual with Hot Springs, and will take on the best of western South Dakota, Wyoming, Nebraska and North Dakota at the Rapid City Invite on Friday and Saturday.

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Olde Tyme celebration draws a good crowd

OLDE TYME SENSES – Residents and visitors to Hill City last Friday experienced a feast for their senses as the stores were decorated, band members from New Horizons Band of Rapid City played on the veranda at the Alpine Inn, Xi Alpha Chi Sorority served cookies and cider and chestnuts were roasted and available for tasting, all part of the Olde Tyme Christmas celebration sponsored by Hill City Area Chamber of Commerce and Black Hills Power. [PN Photo/CAROL WALKER]

By Carol Walker

Lights twinkled up and down the streets of Hill City, seasonal music was in the air and local merchants welcomed shoppers into their businesses during the Hill City Olde Tyme Christmas celebration last weekend. Rain and snow fell, hampering travel into town by some, but those who came enjoyed a feast for their senses.
Shops were decorated for the season, and throughout the day participating businesses offered hot chocolate and goodies to all their visitors. Visitors could register for $100 in Chamber Bucks as well as vote for their favorite jewelry fashioned by local artists. There will be a weekly drawing for Chamber Bucks throughout the Christmas season.
All reports indicate there were lots of people in town with Denise Etzkorn of the Hill City Area Chamber of Commerce remarking that she saw out-of-state license plates from Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oregon, Wyoming and Montana.
Her first Christmas as a Main Street business owner, Lorena Fries of the Farmer’s Daughter, said, “It was fabulous. The downtown and our shop was full from the time we opened until we closed in the evening, and it appeared people were really in the Christmas spirit.”
Jewels of the West and Warrior’s Work agreed that there were a lot of people in town, rolling in and out of the shops, but sales were about medium. Stone Faces Winery indicated that things were somewhat down due to the weather factor.
Larry Walker of Stagestop Leather and Gifts agreed that the icy roads and weather may have kept some people from coming to the Hill City celebration, but he did say it was a fairly good weekend and he was satisfied with it.
“One thing we did hear from people is that they were renting cabins, making it a tradition to come here for the Thanksgiving weekend. My wife, Judy, really pushes that idea all the time, tells people about the train, the parade, the chestnuts and so on,” said Walker.
Moni Matush, owner of the Alpine Inn, said lunch is usually really big for the Alpine on the Friday of Thanksgiving weekend, but dinner is typically slower, and this held true this year.
“I thought the celebration on Friday was really nice, and I liked the idea of ending at the train for the tree lighting and Santa Claus. Jon Crane was just a great Santa Claus,” said Matush.
Lori Nonnast was pleased with the traffic in the Jon Crane Gallery, saying it was bigger and better than any of the past three events the gallery has hosted. She believes the media coverage was great with the chamber pulling together advertising for the event.
Holli Edwards from Prairie Berry Winery said the crowd on Friday was good and Saturday, though a little slower, was still busy for them.
After chestnuts were roasted and cider and cookies were passed out on the veranda of the Alpine Inn, the parade began on the south end of Main Street Friday night. According to Deb Bruce, Hill City Area Chamber director, there were about 20 entries in the lighted parade.
Leading the parade was Vic Alexander driving his 1927 fire truck, decked out with plenty of Christmas lights, and carrying Anne and Tip French, the parade marshals for the event. Santa Claus went on to the 1880 Train grounds to oversee the lighting of the Christmas tree and meet with all the girls and boys who came to talk to him and receive a shiny, red apple.
Etzkorn stopped in to see the Trees and Trains exhibit at the South Dakota State Railroad Museum and was impressed by the creative decorations. She commented on the Pillen Optical tree, decorated with eyeglasses, the Boys and Girls Club special ornaments and the Turtle Town edible tree.
“I thought the weekend was wonderful. It was my first time to try roasted chestnuts, and it was so beautiful to see big, thick snowflakes coming down during the parade. I also thought Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus were just adorable,” said Bruce.
The Olde Tyme Christmas celebration in Hill City has become a tradition, and it looks like its popularity by many business owners, residents and visitors may make it a tradition that endures.

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CATV ordinance passes unanimously

By Carol Walker

The second reading of the Hill City Community Antenna Television (CATV) Ordinance passed unanimously with three of the four council members present on Monday night at the Hill City Council meeting. Steve Jarvis was absent.
Frank Bettmann, city attorney, after receiving comments from Brett McMacken, city administrator, and Councilman John Johnson, said edits were made to the document since the first reading two weeks ago, but none of the actual content was changed. Prior to the first reading the ordinance was trimmed down, with language specific to the current contract with Goldenwest removed.
“The purpose of this ordinance is not to spell out all the terms of the contract, but to include the basic terms. The city can negotiate other areas,” said Bettmann.
Definitions of what a cable system is were brought up to date and language was cleaned up regarding unauthorized cable use, according to Bettmann. He said the updated ordinance should take away the need to change the ordinance each time a new contract is issued.
Larry and Janeen Meier spoke to the council regarding changes made to Deegan Drive adjacent to their house. According to the Meiers, when the street was restructured last summer, a rock wall was removed on the edge of their property. They would like to know where the rock was deposited. Since they live in another part of the state most of the time, they expressed concern that they were not notified about work being done on the street. Even if the rock wall was on public right-of-way, they would like to have known about its potential removal so they could have retrieved the rock. The rock wall was put in place by the previous owners of the property.
“I don’t know specifically what you are referring to, but all of the work done on Deegan Dr. and Lacy’s Court was on public right-of-way. The only reason to remove the rock was if it was a drainage problem,” said McMacken.
Available only in the print version of the Hill City Prevailer, to subscribe call 605.574.2538.

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Vacation home rentals meeting at city hall Dec. 7

By Bev Pechan

Vacation home rentals in the Black Hills are a popular venue for those who just want to beat the tourist crowds and enjoy a leisurely retreat surrounded by nature and outdoor activities.
That shouldn’t be a problem, but – nowadays, there is a hitch. If you aren’t within the proper zoning limits or haven’t been grandfathered in, renting out your pricey log home in the pines to help pay the mortgage may be illegal.
Rita Chapman, who operates Happy Trails Cabins in Silver City, is one who has been told by Pennington County Planning and Zoning that part of her long-standing hospitality business may not be legal. Others have heard similar admonishments. Starting last January, a group of interested and concerned county residents representing both sides formed a committee and met with county planning and zoning director Dan Jennissen and commissioner Ken Davis to work out a plan that would be workable to all concerned.
On Wednesday, Dec. 7, a public meeting regarding the new proposed ordinance will be held at Hill City’s city hall beginning at 6 p.m. There are reportedly homes within the city limits which also fall into this category and have been used, perhaps illegally, for some time. Those with questions and concerns are urged to attend the meeting and present their views.
Available only in the print version of the Hill City Prevailer, to subscribe call 605.574.2538.

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Christmas in the Black Hills to air Dec. 12

Cozy Sleigh Ride — Cast and crew takes a ride in a “horse drawn” sleigh for the taping of ‘Christmas in the Black Hills’ set to air Dec. 12 on Great American Country. [Submitted Photo]

This past week, the Black Hills Central Railroad hosted Country music star Tracy Lawrence for a scene in the country music special “Christmas in the Black Hills.” Tracy goes on a magical journey on the “Holiday Express” which you can still catch a ride on Dec. 10, 17 and 23.
Stars Big & Rich host this new Christmas special to air on the Great American Country (GAC) channel beginning Dec. 12. The show also features scenes in Deadwood and other locations in the Black Hills. Special guests include Thompson Square, Bradley Gaskin, Tracy Lawrence, Andy Gibson and the new trio The Farm.
The show was produced by High Five Entertainment out of Nashville, which hired the local Black Hills company, Crow Ridge Productions, Inc., to provide the grip truck and equipment for lighting as well as crew for grip, lighting, camera and sound.
Martin Fischer, president of High Five Entertainment in Nashville, said, "There's a lot of musical variety in Christmas in the Black Hills, but I believe the audience will really enjoy our on-location segments — Thompson Square on a sleigh ride near Deadwood and Tracy Lawrence on the 1880 Train in Hill City.
"Experiencing the Black Hills and meeting the people who live and work here were the highlights for the production team; the history, locations, and hospitality make the area a great place to shoot," he continued.
Rick VanNess, president of Crow Ridge Productions, said, “This was a fun production to work on. We pulled out the really big lights and actually lit the side of the mountain.” Rick did the location sound for all the remote locations such as on the train and the sleigh ride. After shooting the actual horse and sleigh, they rigged up a flatbed trailer and shot it again with all the crew on the trailer for close-ups of Thompson Square.
Big Kenny of Big and Rich made sure to shake hands with all the crew at the end of shooting and wished everyone a Merry Christmas.

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Hill City runner receives scholarship

Andy Coy, a junior at Dakota State University, was named to 2011 Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athletes.
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) announced Friday that 159 mens and 296 womens cross country received the prestigious honor.
Student-athletes are nominated by their institution's head coach and must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and must have achieved a junior academic status in order to qualify for the honor.
Coy, son of Rusty and Cindy Coy, is studying biology and secondary education.

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