Zonta Club of the Black Hills Blog

Janet Zietlow

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 18:43:54 GMT

I just found out that our dear friend, and long-time Zonta member, Janet Zietlow passed away on September 3. She was a great person.

Rummage Sale

Sat, 20 Aug 2022 12:28:51 GMT

The fundraising committee has embraced the idea of a rummage sale this fall. The details of which are still being worked out. If you know of an empty shed, garage or storage unit, please notify Jo Prang (484-5548). But, in the meantime! During your annual fall cleaning (if you do such a thing!) PLEASE donate your items to our rummage sale. In order to do our projects, such as the 16 days of activism, and support our members in attending District and International meetings, we need to bolster our club resources. Stay tuned for further updates as to where to drop off your items. THANK YOU!

Humane Society of the BH

Tue, 28 Dec 2021 03:03:57 GMT

Hey this isn't due everyone and not a Zonta project but I know of several members who have lost animal family members this year. I'm wondering if any of the 5 or 6 that I know of would want to make a collective donation on behalf of our Zonta pets and any others. Email if interested. Depending on interest I will contact HSBH . I have lost 2 special assistants this year. Chico and Maya

Zontian of the Year

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 23:38:29 GMT

This year, our Zontian of the Year recognition was given to Marti Nesland. Ms. Nesland has been the chairperson of the historian committee, a member of the marketing committee, chairperson for the Zonta Expo, and treasurer of the Expo. Traci Fitting, the Zontian of the Year two years ago, presented at the event, which was held at Red Rock Golf Course in their outdoor patio. Approximately fifteen members were present for the evening gathering. We also inducted one of our new members, Beth- Anne Ferley before presenting Ms. Nesland with the Zontian of the Year honor.

Centennial Celebration

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 21:51:52 GMT

Hello Zontians,

With the Centennial Celebration just around the corner (July 2020), we are hoping for as many Zontians as possible to attend. With that in mind, the board voted at our last board meeting to have a drawing for those members, that have been a Zontian for a year or less. We will put their names in a drawing and the winner of the drawing will have their registration for the Centennial paid by the club. This is about $450. So think about it!

I want to wish each and everyone of you a very blessed and merry Christmas and happy Hanukkah and a safe and happy New Year!

See you next year!

Karen Kierstead

Vote for Girl's Inc. of Rapid City, SD

(Past member) — Fri, 17 Aug 2018 15:11:42 GMT

Vote Early - Vote Often for our own Girl's Inc. (Rapid City, SD)

Girls Inc. of Rapid City, SD has been given an amazing opportunity to compete for $25,000 from the State Farm Neighborhood Assist program. This grant would provide scholarships for 500 girls in our community to attend Girls Inc. for an entire year! PLEASE get your phones, tablets, computers, and smart watches out to vote for Girls Inc. of Rapid City! If you vote from your computer at work we won’t tell anyone, and if you get caught just tell your supervisor we need their vote too!

We serve the most amazing girls at Girls Inc.! An annual membership fee for our program is $50 per year! Girls Inc. provides its members with a safe place to learn about their bodies, literacy, healthy foods, art, computers, science, and math. We also offer homework help, sports teams, swimming opportunities, and excursions to many great places in the Black Hills. Girls Inc. encourages girls to be curious about the world and to have a love for learning. We also provide a safe and stimulating learning environment and work to improve the overall well-being of young girls. We do this to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold!

Please take a few seconds to click this link: https://www.neighborhoodassist.com/entry/2012263. It will take you directly where you need to be to place your vote. YOU CAN VOTE UP TO 10 TIMES PER DAY from August 15 to August 24. So set a timer, put a rubber band on your wrist, put an alert on your phone, even a post-it note will do to remind you to get all 10 of your votes in each day. We live in a very small state so we need the compound/Tupperware/multiplier effect to happen here. Please, please, please forward to everyone on your contact list and share the direct link included above with your friends and family on social media. Our deepest gratitude for your support of Girls Inc.!

Message from the President - Lisa Wesolick

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 16:24:06 GMT

I am so thankful for this opportunity to serve as President of Zonta BH this next year.

I appreciate all those who have held this office before me – especially Jessica Larson and Kylie Riggins because I know they have done a lot of hard work on many fronts, some of which were uniquely challenging. My focus this next year is on fellowship. The Zonta Code item number 6 states, “Whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, do ye even so unto them,” which in today’s language means: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you (also known as the Golden Rule).

Lately, my thoughts have been about being aware of that which I am not aware. We all are going through something at any given time and deserve to be treated as we would want to be treated. I am going to tell you two stories. The first actually happened to me and the other is a story I have heard. First, when I was in my early twenties and working at my first “real” job after college, I was in charge of a training program for company executives. The day of the class, I was greeting all the attendees very professionally and trying to do my very best. At one point, I greeted a young man very professionally and offered coffee and directions. He replied that he was just there to fix the copier! I immediately questioned whether I would have treated this person differently had I known he was just there to fix the copier. Everyone deserves to be treated the same no matter their position, and that goes for all the people we come in contact with in our lives (especially as Zontians).

The other story, which I heard at a conference for the Knights of Columbus last month. The motivational speaker for the ladies was Elaine Dunn of Spearfish. Elaine, who loves history and a good story, related the story of finding a ring in a hotel restroom. She found the piece and immediately thought it to be a family heirloom and noticed inside the ring an inscription with the name Lea (to her an old family name). Elaine stated she promptly went to the front desk to see if someone had lost a ring and also left her cell phone number in case she needed to be contacted by the owner. Elaine decided to wear the ring because she really liked it. Time passed and no one called about the ring. One day her son, who was a contractor and builder, came to visit her. Seeing the ring on his mom’s finger, he asked, “Mom, why are you wearing a Lea bathroom fixture piece?!” It wasn’t a precious piece of jewelry after all, only an ordinary, functional plumbing attachment.

Funny story, right? The lesson is so good! We all have value, are important, are beautiful and have a purpose. At the May meeting I placed rings on the tables for all of you. I hoped that you would take one and remember that you have value, are important and beautiful. And, you all have a purpose in Zonta!

Thank you again for this opportunity!

--- Lisa Wesolick

Zonta Awards 2017 Expo Funds to Organizations and Projects that Empower Women

Sun, 08 Apr 2018 21:05:44 GMT

Black Hills, SD…Non-profit organizations in the Rapid City area working to advance the status of women were encouraged to apply for a 2017-2018 Zonta Club of the Black Hills Expo Service Grant. Funds generated from the annual Zonta EXPO, that was held on Thursday, October 5th at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center in Rapid City, underwrote this year’s grant cycle as has been the ongoing policy for the 34 years of the event.

Non-profit organizations with projects empowering women that were funded include:

1. Abbott House - Building Bridges Program

2. Alzheimer's Association of the Black Hills - Alzheimer's Care Conference for Women

3. Career Learning Center of the Black Hills - GED Testing Scholarship Fund

4. Catholic Social Services - Professional Counseling for Victims of Violent Crime

5. Lifeways, Inc. - Y2Y Conference

6. Lutheran Social Services - New Alternatives and Arise Youth Center

7. Rapid City Area Schools - Personal hygiene items for young women in RCAS

8. Volunteers of America

9. Working Against Violence, Inc. - Project SAFE

10. Youth & Family Services - Girls, Inc. - Academic Support & Enrichment (ASE)

11. Youth in Science (Rapid City) - Women in Science Conference

For more information on these projects visit our web site: www.zontacluboftheblackhills.org

Please Note: Zonta Club of the Black Hills will ONLY consider applications from local organizations with a 501 (c) 3 status whose programs or projects are designed to advance the legal, political, economic, educational, health and professional status of women in the Black Hills region.

Zonta Club of the Black Hills is part of an organization of over 30,000 members in 66 countries working together to improve the status of women through international and local collaboration, networking, community service and advocacy. For additional information see www.zonta.org and www.zontacluboftheblackhills.org

Zonta Website Sponsor The Workforce Diversity Network of the Black Hills Provides Awareness and Education.

Wed, 14 Sep 2016 03:19:09 GMT

As South Dakota is growing part of this growth is aimed at increasing workplace inclusion of individuals with disabilities. With this great opportunity I would like to introduce myself, I’m Catherine Greseth, The Executive Director of The Workforce Diversity Network of The Black Hills. WDN of BH is a nonprofit organization with a Board of 9 Trustees made up of Human Resource managers, Business owners, business law attorneys from Jackson Lewis and rehabilitation councilors and supervisors. We understand that a healthy workforce is inclusive of individuals with disabilities and how these individuals can improve your businesses bottom line. We offer free education and consulting to businesses on hiring and retaining individuals who are or become disabled. Did you know that more than 53 million Americans have a disability and 1 out of 4 of us will be disabled in our working lifetime? Through awareness and education we can identify common challenges and connect you to resources and partnerships. These include Vocational Rehabilitation, other employers, accommodations including Dakota Link, Black Hills Special Services, The Rocky Mountain ADA, and Services to the Blind and Visually Impaired, just to name a few. We can provide trainings that include; disability and etiquette, what are the essential functions of a job, what can and cannot be asked in an interview, help you understand State and Federal guidelines and many other topics. We are here to help your business increase your bottom line by helping you understand all the benefits of hiring and retaining people with disabilities, and tap into this huge employee resource. Employees with disabilities miss less work; they are resourceful and are problem solvers. Individuals with disabilities can open up a whole new market for your business. Let me give you an example, a large portion of the consumer market is the Baby Boomers, with age alone come disabilities, so when you have employees with disabilities they can better understand what is needed when taking care of a customer with a disability, and that can lead to customer loyalty!

The Workforce Diversity Network of the Black Hills is here to help your business with best practices, which can be implemented to include, applicants or current employees that have a disability. We will also help you understand what is considered a disability under the ADA and section 503.

When it comes to outstanding employees we all want to retain them, but what happens if they become disabled from a sickness or an accident? WDN of BH will help you retain these valuable employees through the return to work program, accommodations and modified schedules. Let me reassure you that most accommodations cost very little and many times nothing at all when we are looking at some simple things, such as a flexible work schedule, standing instead of sitting, or adjustment in lighting. For those needing more the average cost was only 500.00 compared to employee turnover that can cost on average of at least $8,000.00, and that is just to replace a minimum wage employee.

These are just a few of the ways that The WDN OF BH can help your business standout and thrive.

I look forward to meeting and working with all of you and invite you join us October 13th at 7 am at the Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn for our annual breakfast honoring National Disability Employment Awareness Month, NDEAM. The Keynote Speaker will be Helene Duhamel as she takes us through her disability of cancer and continuing to work. Kathleen Barrow of Jackson/lewis will discuss briefly what is considered a disability by the law and what accommodations can be made. We will honor 3 businesses that are leading the way in understanding disabilities in the work place through employment.

When we work we contribute to our society and our own self-worth.

Invest in your business by calling The Workforce Diversity Network of the Black Hills today, our services are always free and we are here to help you connect to the resources and network with other businesses to create culture where everyone can reach their full potential.

Our Number is 605 787 2590.
Our website is www.wdnbh.org
Like us on Facebook WDN of The Black Hills
And follow us on twitter @ WDN OF BH

Zonta Club and Eagle Sales partner on human trafficking awareness

Mon, 15 Aug 2016 00:46:00 GMT

RAPID CITY - Together, Zonta Club of the Black Hills and Eagle Sales are working to bring awareness to the growing issue of human trafficking.

During the 76th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which officially runs Aug. 8-14, Eagle Sales delivery trucks will display an anti-human trafficking decal featuring the anti-trafficking helpline number – 1-888-2727-888. “Eagle Sales of the Black Hills wanted to get involved and help the Zonta organization, and specifically spread the message about human trafficking,” says Mary Helland, co-owner of Eagle Sales.

Human trafficking is a modern form of slavery, with sex trafficking the most common form. It’s an issue affecting the country as a whole. Since 2007, the National Human Trafficking Resource Center has dealt with approximately 130,000 cases in the U.S. During that same period, South Dakota has seen 43 official cases of human tracking. As of June this year, eight cases of human trafficking had already been reported in South Dakota.

During the annual Sturgis Rally, law enforcement agencies have stepped up efforts to recognize and eradicate trafficking. During the Sturgis Rally last year, four men were arrested in human trafficking cases. In 2014, five were arrested. The cases have involved girls as young as 12.

“A lot of people do not understand that human trafficking happens here in the Black Hills, especially during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally,” says Jessica Larson, president of Zonta Club of the Black Hills.

The decals on the Eagle Sales trucks read, “Zonta says No to Human Trafficking,” and each features the helpline number. Zonta Club of the Black Hills urges anyone who sees something suspicious or anyone who needs help to call the number.

Other local businesses participating in this awareness campaign are: Harley Davidson of the Black Hills, Common Cents Stores and Fisher Beverage.

For more information about Zonta Club of the Black Hills and its work to raise awareness about human trafficking, go to http://zontacluboftheblackhills.org/ For more information about Eagle Sales, visit http://www.abwholesaler.com/group05/eaglesalesblackhills/home

Nesland Construction Builds Support in Our Community

Wed, 13 Jul 2016 03:48:05 GMT

Nesland Construction has been building residential housing in the Rapid City Area for over 14 years. Mike and Marti Nesland began the business while they were both teachers for the Rapid City Area School District. Six years after the start of the business, Mike quit teaching at South Middle School to focus on their family business.

Nesland Construction has built residential houses all around the Rapid City Area. Their homes vary from “starter” homes to large custom houses. A majority of the homes they build are pre-sold homes. Therefore, the clients have the opportunity to choose the design elements in their new house.

Along with building homes for families in Rapid City, Nesland Construction also supports many organizations. They sponsor youth activities at Stevens High School (booster club, volleyball, basketball, track, orchestra, and chorus) and Young Life. They also sponsor Great Strides for Cystic Fibrosis and Team Fischer and the Zonta Club of the Black Hills.

JANE M. KLAUSMAN WOMEN IN BUSINESS SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE IS JUNE 15, 2016

Mon, 06 Jun 2016 00:58:02 GMT

The Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarships are awarded to women undertaking business studies who have demonstrated outstanding potential in the field.

Zonta Club of the Black Hills offers a scholarship of $500 at the local level. Zonta International offers scholarships of $1,000 each at the district/region level and twelve scholarships in the amount of $7,000 each at the International level.

The scholarships may be used at any university, college or institute offering accredited courses and degrees. Previous International Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship recipients may not apply to renew the Scholarship.

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

Be undertaking a business and/or business-related program at an accredited university/college/institute.
Enrolled in at least the second year of an undergraduate program through the final year of a Master’s program at the time the application is submitted (applicants must still be attending school to receive this scholarship.)
Achieved an outstanding academic record during her academic studies, including business-related subjects.
Demonstrated initiative, ambition and commitment to pursuing a career in business.
Living or studying in a Zonta district/region.

The local Zonta Club Evaluation Committee will consider applications and select the club awardee. Her application will be sent to the Zonta District Governors/Region South America Representative. A District/Region Evaluation Committee selects one applicant per district/region to submit to Zonta International Headquarters. The Zonta International Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship Committee selects 12 international recipients from the district/region applicants.

To apply click here. Please complete the application and email to zontablackhills@gmail.com or mail to Zonta Club of the Black Hills, PO Box 8163, Rapid City, SD 57709 no later than June 15.

2016-2017 Zonta Club of the Black Hills Officers and Directors are Elected at the Annual Meeting

Mon, 06 Jun 2016 00:53:32 GMT

Zonta Club of the Black Hills recently held its annual meeting. Newly elected officers and board members for FY2016-2017 include:

President: Jessica Larson, Beardsley, Jensen & VonWald Law Offices

President Elect Kylie Riggins, Viken & Riggens Law Firm

Vice President: Lisa Wesolick, Wesolick Law Firm

Recording Secretary: Karen Kierstad, Aflac Insurance

Corresponding Secretary: Carrie Martinez, First Interstate Bank

Treasurer: Carrie Christensen, Ketel Thorstenson, LLP

Assistant Treasurer Meals: Traci Fitting, Ketel Thorstenson, LLP

Assistant Treasurer Expo: Traci Fitting, Ketel Thorstenson, LLP

Directors:

Catherine Greseth, Workforce Diversity Network

Dani Doran- Mason, South Dakota Tech

Marti Nesland, Retired from teaching

Laura Hovey Neubert, Rapid City Library Foundation

Anna Quinn, The HOPE Center

Liz Smith, Main Street Square

Zonta awards Stevens senior Young Women in Public Affairs scholarship

Mon, 06 Jun 2016 00:10:27 GMT

One of the most rewarding things that Zonta Club of the Black Hills does each year is encourage young female leaders by awarding college scholarships. This year, we are proud to announce that Regan Odegaard of Rapid City was awarded the Young Women in Public Affairs Scholarship from our organization.

Regan, a Rapid City Stevens High School senior, is an extraordinary young woman who plans to attend South Dakota State University in Brookings next year. Regan wants to study biology and eventually enter medical school or become a physician’s assistant. She has plans to become involved in the student government at SDSU and continue her involvement in her church, which will hopefully include mission trips abroad.

Currently, Regan is the senior class co-president at Rapid City Stevens High School and has been in the student council for the past three years. This year, Regan also graduated from the Leadership Rapid City class, a program sponsored by the Rapid City Chamber of Commerce to teach leadership to the next generation of community leaders.

Also in her senior year at Stevens, Regan was leader for her high school soccer team and previously served as captain. This season, she was voted most inspiring player by her teammates and coach, as well as the best defensive player.

As if that wasn’t enough, Regan is also part of a leadership group called Frontlines, which meets monthly to learn about becoming service-type leaders. And she has been a part of Love Rapid City, which brings community members together every second Saturday of the month and for one full week annually to provide community service to the community.

It’s perfectly clear that Regan embodies the very qualities that Zonta encourages in its young women. We are proud of what Regan has already accomplished and look forward to seeing her continue to evolve and grow into a strong and capable leader. With young women like Regan at the helm, our community, state and country are in strong hands.

Congratulations Regan!

Diane Knutson is Mrs. Rapid City, SD Corporate America!

Tue, 23 Feb 2016 04:56:45 GMT

ORLANDO, FL -- Diane Knutson from Rapid City, SD will be competing for the Mrs. Corporate America crown during the live, public competition on Saturday, March 5th, 7:30pm, at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, FL. Diane was selected for her achievements in business, service, and leadership.

In its 9th year, the Ms./Mrs. Corporate America Pageant {MCA} continues to focus not only on beauty, but business as well. It provides an exciting platform for women to promote their professional achievements and accomplishments in the community. Contestants are able to enhance self-confidence, strengthen leadership skills, set future goals, and establish a network of new friendships with other successful women.

Funds raised through the MCA Organization benefit a charity each year, and this year proceeds will go to "Dress for Success" The non-profit organization helps disadvantaged women prepare for job interviews, so they may become self-sufficient, confident, and productive members of society. The MCA Pageant also brings to light the issues facing today's modern corporate women, and contestants can share their stories with one another.

For more information on the MCA Organization, to become a sponsor, or learn how to become a contestant, visit http://www.MsCorporateAmerica.com.

The International Women's Day Celebration - March 4, 2016

Tue, 23 Feb 2016 03:53:40 GMT

CALLING ALL LOCAL ORIGINAL ARTISANS AND SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS (Non-franchise)

Please join us ‘Celebrate Our Legacy’ at the International Women’s Day Celebration!

We are currently accepting applicants for the Inspiration Marketplace.

We would be honored to champion you and your original, custom art and small business that is unique and non-franchised.

Female artisans of beadwork, jewelry, quillwork, paintings, arts/crafts, leatherwork, basket weaving,

and pottery are examples of who we would like to champion.

Cost: $50

Includes 1 ticket to attend The International Women’s Day Celebration (which includes lunch and dinner).

One table and 2 chairs.

10x10 space.

Apply now or before February 27 for your opportunity to be included in our Inspiration Marketplace!

Contact Lafawn Janis for questions and submit your application via email or mail.

Lafawn Janis - Inspiration Marketplace

325 Omaha St. Suite 1

Rapid City, SD 57701

c: 605.877.4003

e: lafawn@buffalogals.us

Here is a great opportunity to promote women in business and share in the encouragement, education and promotion of women! Please see attached information about Buffalo Gals and the conference March 4. Also attached are forms to reserve a booth or become a sponsor or attendee.

Lisa Wesolick - lisawesolick@aol.com

Bunny Tyler Memorial Scholarship for Women closes March 15, 2016

Mon, 25 Jan 2016 03:28:25 GMT

Students have until March 15 to apply for the Bunny Tyler Memorial Scholarship for Women in Business.

Zonta Club of the Black Hills established the Bunny Tyler Memorial Scholarship for Women in Business in remembrance of local business woman and volunteer Dorothy “Bunny” Tyler. Bunny and her husband owned and operated National Van Lines and Black Hills Mayflower Moving and Storage.

Tyler was active in many Rapid City organizations, including Zonta Club of the Black Hills, SCORE, Toastmasters and Business & Professional Women. She also served as Governor of District 12 of Zonta International, and actively advocated for advancing the status of women.

A strong and successful business woman, dedicated and compassionate volunteer, and proud, loving mother and grandmother, Tyler’s legacy lives on in this $500 scholarship funded by her family, friends and sister Zontians.

The Bunny Tyler scholarship is open to candidates who meet the following criteria: non-traditional (24 years or older) women enrolled in 2 or 4 year university/college accredited business undergraduate or MBA program who have demonstrated leadership through volunteer/community service. (Recipient will need to provide proof of enrollment upon notification.)

To apply, click here.

Completed applications can be emailed to zontablackhills@hotmail.com or mailed to Zonta Club of the Black Hills C/O Scholarship Committee, PO Box 8163, Rapid City, SD 57709 by EOD March 15, 2016.

Sponsor Spotlight: Omni Home Financing - Fulfill your dream of owning a home!

Mon, 25 Jan 2016 03:14:54 GMT

For Diane Staeffler, one of the most satisfying things in life is helping someone realize the dream of owning a home. And since 2003, she’s been helping people do just that.

Staeffler is a partner in Omni Home Financing, established in Rapid City in 2003. Omni works with some of the nation’s top lenders to get the best terms for their clients. Diane’s goal is always to help people fulfill their dream of owning a home; whether it’s a first home or a vacation home. Omni Financing can also help those interested in acquiring rental property.

Diane grew up in Minnesota and began her career in finance more than 30 years ago at a bank in New Mexico. She went on to work for 26 years with Norwest/Wells Fargo, moving to Rapid City in 1985.

Diane understands that negotiating the financial realities of purchasing a home can be stressful. That’s why she strives to bring an upbeat and friendly vibe to her work. She wants the process to be simple, stress free and, yes, even fun.

When Diane isn’t making home ownership a reality, she loves to volunteer in the community. Some of the agencies where she has given her time include Black Hills Workshop, Cornerstone Mission for Women and Children, Zonta and WAVI.

In her free time, you can find Diane riding her motorcycle through the beautiful Black Hills with her husband Dan .She also has two grown children and a Yorkie named Ed.

By Lynn Taylor Rick, Zonta Marketing & Communications Committee

Sponsor Spotlight: Dakotah Steakhouse - always a special occasion!

Sun, 29 Nov 2015 23:28:24 GMT

Even 4 ½ years after its opening, Peg Seljeskog is still in awe of Dakotah Steakhouse.

“I still walk in and say, ‘Wow,’” Peg says. “I love it.”

Peg, a longtime Zonta Club of the Black Hills member, and her husband, Dr. Edward Seljeskog, are majority partners of Dakotah Steakhouse. The couple debuted the restaurant in 2011 with an eye toward creating a place distinctive of the Black Hills and Western South Dakota. Its menu includes such fare as Coulette Steak, Cowboy Bone-In Rib-Eye and, Peg’s favorite, Dry-Aged Prime Rib. “I’m addicted to it. You can practically use a table knife to cut it,” Peg says.

Peg says the focus of Dakotah Steakhouse has always been customer service combined with delicious and affordable food. “We pride ourselves on our service. And our delicious food. We do fresh preparation,” she says.

Of course, Dakotah Steakhouse has more than just great food and fine service. It’s also a beautiful restaurant with striking décor and unique art. Even before the restaurant was complete, the Seljeskog’s purchased an outdoor buffalo sculpture from artist John Lopez to welcome guests as they enter the restaurant.

Dakotah, as the buffalo is called, actually has a dual purpose. He is a beautiful piece of art, and he’s a part of a scavenger hunt. Dakotah was created with unique items that the restaurant has incorporated into a scavenger hunt. Customers can get the scavenger hunt list at the front desk and head outside to find the various items that are part of Dakotah, Peg says. “It’s a lot of fun.”

In this day and age of franchise restaurants, Peg is particularly proud of what Dakotah Steakhouse has accomplished. It’s a place where you might see customers dressed to the nines alongside the cowboy in his Wrangler jeans. And that’s the goal, Peg says. It’s a place for everyone.

When it comes to eating out, Peg urges people to really embrace the idea. Don’t just stop at any old restaurant and get any old meal, she says. “Every time you go out to eat, it should be a special occasion,” she says with a smile. “Why waste it.”

Written by Lynn Taylor Rick, Zonta Marketing & Communications Committee Member

EXPO Grant applications due Nov. 15

Thu, 05 Nov 2015 05:09:50 GMT

It’s time once again for Black Hills area nonprofit agencies to apply for EXPO grants from Zonta Club of the Black Hills. Each year, Zonta awards Expo funding to agencies in the Black Hills that help empower and enrich the lives of women and children. The annual Expo is Zonta’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

Deadline for 2016 grant applications is Sunday, Nov. 15. To learn more about the grants and directions for applying, visit zontacluboftheblackhills.org or call (605) 391-2192.

Zonta is proud to have funded the following agencies in 2015:

Aglow International – Women’s Jail Storybook Program: Volunteers in the Women’s Jail Storybook Program help incarcerated mothers continue their connections with their children through the simple act of reading a nighttime story. Storybook Program volunteers visit women in jails and record them reading children’s books. Those recordings are then mailed to their children.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Black Hills – Women’s Community Leadership Initiative: The Women’s Community Leadership Initiative strives to empower women, giving them the tools to recognize their potential. Through classes, women are provided leadership and professional development education. WCLI also provides networking opportunities with community leaders.

Catholic Social Services – Professional Counseling for Victims of Violent Crime: Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and/or abuse receive counseling through this program, with the goal of helping them work through the emotions following the traumatic event.

Career Learning Center – GED Testing Scholarship Fund: Zonta grant funding helped more than 40 local women to pursue their GED. Graduates are then encouraged to pursue high education, as education has been proven to improve the economic and social status of women and their children.

Cornerstone Rescue Mission – Project Self-Sufficiency, Women’s & Children’s Home: Zonta Club awarded grant funding to the Women’s & Children’s Home to assist with operation. The home provides safe emergency shelter for homeless women and children, allowing them privacy and security while they heal.

Lutheran Social Services – Stepping Stones: Stepping Stones proves guidance and support to young adults who are transitioning out of foster care or juvenile corrections. The program provides affordable housing, case management and life skills training to assist youth in becoming self-sufficient adults.

Passages, Women’s Transitional Living, Inc.: A faith-based residential facility, Passages assists woman transitioning from incarceration to independent living. Passages helps women with basic needs and services, including affordable housing.

Working Against Violence – Project SAFE: SAFE stands for Security, Advocacy and Family Empowerment. Project SAFE includes domestic violence and sexual assault crisis intervention services, as well as WAVI’s 24-hour crisis line, emergency room response, emotional support and counseling referrals.

Youth & Family Services – Girls Inc. – Academic Support & Enrichment: ASE strives to increase the high school graduation rate in the Black Hills community. ASE provides such resources as computer labs, literacy classes, library access, homework help and math and science instruction.

Youth in Science: A one-day conference that introduces middle school and high school girls to STEM careers, Youth in Science strives to encourage girls to consider careers in science and math. Students attend speakers and work in small groups.

Zonta is grateful to all of these agencies doing such amazing work to improve the lives of women and children in the Black Hills.

By Lynn Taylor Rick, Expo Marketing & Communications Committee

Sponsor Spotlight: Black Hills Gold Jewelry by Coleman

Thu, 09 Jul 2015 16:54:15 GMT

In the mid 1870s, thousands of pioneers flocked to the rumors of gold, struggling across the wide expanse of prairie in their quest to fulfill dreams of a better life. They wanted strong, healthy families, farms and businesses, and the kind of success that afforded them the chance to live comfortably, luxuriously even.

Aboard covered wagons and on foot they traveled for weeks, months sometimes, with little more than a hope to keep them moving forward. Thirst, hunger, exposure and disease claimed the lives of many, but their dreams would not be defeated. Their futures were at stake, and the futures of the next several generations. The answer to their prayers, their brighter future, lay somewhere off the horizon in a dreamland of wealth and success - the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Gold had been discovered there just after the Custer Expedition and the promise of untold wealth offered by nuggets large and small all over the Black Hills was the star upon which many young Americans hung their hopes. In 1874 miners were discovering and claiming plots of land along Black Hills creeks, making small fortunes in placer gold - the loose gold pieces generally found mixed with sediment and rock in creek beds and streams.

Many fortunes were made, and dreams built on the placer gold that settled to the edge of the mining pan. Homes, businesses, families, and whole communities were financed by settlers and prospectors persistent in their vision of a better life. Fearless of the wild frontier, devoted to the work required, those early Americans risked it all to bring lives they could only imagine to the America they already loved.

According to legend, one such young American - Henri LeBeau, a goldsmith from France - fell asleep believing he was dying of thirst and starvation, and dreamt of a mountain stream with grapevines growing on its banks. When he awoke, he discovered just over a nearby rise, the stream and grapevines of his dream. In his endless gratitude for his life saved, he devoted his talents as a goldsmith to creating jewelry featuring the grapes, leaves, and vines that adorned the banks of the stream.

This tale of determination and success is forever immortalized, in the signature rose, green, and yellow gold of the grapes and leaves featured in Black Hills Gold jewelry.

Black Hills Gold Jewelry by Coleman employees create stunning jewelry accessories through a process that can require up to 40 different manufacturing steps; a few dating back to the early 1800’s. Many of the 40-plus steps also include the handcrafting by US citizens who are skillfully trained by Black Hills Gold Jewelry by Coleman or bring their skills with them that they learned from past generations. Working just 30 miles from the Mt. Rushmore monument honoring our Founding Fathers – Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln - these skillfully trained artisans produce a wide variety of traditional and contemporary styles carrying the world renown designation of Black Hills Gold.

To this day, the legend of Henri LeBeau as well as several of the traditional Black Hills Gold Jewelry manufacturing steps live on in fine jewelry pieces exclusively crafted by Black Hills Gold Jewelry by Coleman.

Look out Rapid City; we’re unleashing our super powers at this year’s Zonta Expo.

Sun, 05 Jul 2015 23:16:06 GMT

That’s right. With our fabulous speaker, humorist Diana Jordan, leading the way, we’re encouraging attendees to “Unleash Your Super Powers” during the 32nd Annual Zonta Expo, scheduled from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1, at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center.

Jordan, a stand-up comedian, motivational speaker and cancer survivor, will entertain and empower from a “Fun, Female and Fearless” perspective. Jordan comes to us with recommendations from such notable celebrities as Oprah, who called her “One of the funniest people on the planet,” as well as Dr. Oz and even the late comedian Robin Williams.

Diana is also the author of the bestselling book, “A Wife’s Little Instruction Book,” which has been translated into five languages. She was also nominated by the American Comedy Awards as one of the Top Five Female Comedians in the country.

We can’t wait to hear what Diana has to say.

But the Zonta Expo has even more to offer. This annual event includes an array of vendors with a focus on women and a style show. Expo attendees will have the opportunity to network, sign up for fantastic door prizes and partake in some fabulous food.

Best of all – all of this fun is for a great cause.

Zonta of the Black Hills uses our annual Expo to continue our support of nonprofits that support women in our community as well as nationally and internationally. Click here to see past benefactors of 2014 Expo funds.

You can get your advance tickets for the Zonta Expo later this summer from any Zonta member or at our website. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door.

Zonta Club of the Black Hills, a member of Zonta International, is an organization of local businesswomen, whose mission is “To empower women through advocacy and service through international and local collaboration, networking and community service.” Members work together to advance the status of women worldwide.

We’ll see you at this year’s Expo.

Lynn Taylor Rick, Zonta Club of the Black Hills

Linda Lea Viken Recognized as our 2014-2015 Zontian of the Year

Tue, 19 May 2015 23:29:43 GMT

Linda Lea Viken joined Zonta Club of the Black Hills 35 years ago. Throughout her tenure, she has served in many positions, including Club President. Linda Lea diligently maintains the Club Standing Rules and assists with legislation pertaining to all levels of Zonta. She is a true advocate of the ideals of Zonta.

Linda Lea actively promotes and supports women and is a champion for the rights of women, not only in her community but across the country. She has had a varied career, starting out as a classroom teacher and currently practicing as an attorney. She has served in the South Dakota legislature (twice). She served on the South Dakota Commission on the Status of Women. She has served as a Magistrate Judge. She is continually active in her Professional Associations, serving on a number of boards and in advisory capacities for organizations assisting women, children and families.

In September of 2014, she was recognized by the United States Senate, and to quote (in part) Senator Tim Johnson’s presentation to the President, he said…”she is a steadfast advocate for women, especially in the area of domestic violence and working to establish and maintain rights for women who need legal protection and services. She has significantly increased the awareness and education of the general public and the media on legal issues affecting women.” Senator Johnson congratulated this Zontian on her well-deserved recognition as South Dakota Trial Lawyer of the Year for 2014-2015.

A great role model, mentor, leader, friend and Zontian, Linda Lea is very deserving of this prestigious recognition.

Zonta Club of the Black Hills Elects FY 2015-2016 Officers and Board Members

Mon, 18 May 2015 23:08:11 GMT

Mary Kaiser, Jessica Larson, Carrie Christensen, Traci Fitting, Karen Kierstad, Carrie Martinez, Marina Schad, Shirley Hehn & Susan Jones

Zonta Club of the Black Hills recently held its annual meeting. Newly elected officers and board members for FY 2015-2016 include:

President: Mary Kaiser, Regional Health

President Elect: Jessica Larson, Beardsley, Jensen & VonWald Law Offices

Vice President: Kylie Riggins, Viken & Riggens Law Firm

Recording Secretary: Karen Kierstad, Aflac Insurance

Corresponding Secretary: Carrie Martinez, First Interstate Bank

Treasurer: Carrie Christensen, Ketel Thorstenson, LLP

Assistant Treasurer Meals: Traci Fitting, Ketel Thorstenson, LLP

Assistant Treasurer Expo: Traci Fitting, Ketel Thorstenson, LLP

Directors:

Dani Doran, South Dakota Tech

Shirley Hehn, Retired from Nursing

Laura Hovey Neubert, Rapid City Library Foundation

Susan Jones, Noah’s Ark Animal Hospital, PC

Anna Quinn, The HOPE Center

Marina Schad, The Real Estate Group, Inc.

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Zonta Club of the Black Hills celebrates member anniversaries

Mon, 18 May 2015 21:33:34 GMT

During the Zonta Club of the Black Hills annual meeting on Thursday evening May 14, 2015, members were recognized for their membership anniversaries. Milestone anniversaries included two 30-year members and one 35-year member.

2015 Member Anniversary Recognition

FIVE YEAR MEMBERS: Vicki Farrens, Sue Heil, Somer Kingsbury, Jessica Larson, Audrea Martin and Elizabeth Tice Eiesland

TEN YEAR MEMBERS: Jodi Enderson Lawrence and Andrea Hovey

FIFTEEN YEAR MEMBER: Tracy Manning Egge

TWENTY YEAR MEMBER: Shirley Hehn, Sue Hencey and Margo Julius

THIRTY YEAR MEMBERS: Gogie Enstad and Jo Prang (31 years)

THIRTY FIVE YEAR MEMBER: Linda Lea Viken

Kids Fair Volunteer Opportunity

Fri, 17 Apr 2015 21:22:51 GMT

Youth & Family Services’ Kids Fair celebrates children and their families. This signature YFS event drew more than 11,483 people in 2014. If you’re a kid or a kid at heart, you don’t want to miss the 2015 Kids Fair!

I would like to invite you to help with Kids Fair. The success of Kids Fair depends not only on the financial generosity of our sponsors, but also on the willingness of community members to give of their time. Volunteers ensure that children have an exciting and safe experience at Kids Fair. Volunteers assist with attractions, activities, and booths and ensure a warm and inviting experience for every visitor.

The Rushmore Plaza Civic Center hosts the event from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, April 24; 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 25; and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 26. Children under the age of six months get in free and admission for all others is just $5 per person, per day.

Volunteer shifts are:

Friday, April 24, 8 a.m. to noon and 11:45 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, April 25, 8 a.m. to noon and 11:45 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday, April 26, 11:45 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Contact Darcie Decker, for more information at 605.342.4195 or ddecker@youthandfamilyservices.org or visit our website: www.youthandfamilyservices.org.

Youth & Family Services - Girls Incorporated

Tue, 31 Mar 2015 17:19:07 GMT

Girls Incorporated^® of Rapid City was founded in Rapid City in 1965. YFS Girls Inc. serves girls ages 6-17, and provides fun and exciting educational and recreational activities all year long.

Its programs highlight community action, sports, health, careers and life planning. This programs also celebrate our members’ culture and heritage, and encourage the girls to develop self-reliance and life skills.

YFS Girls Inc. center-based and age-appropriate activities are implemented in a challenging and creative environment. The mission of Girls Inc. is to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold^SM.

LEARN, LEAD, & SERVE as a Cadet in the Civil Air Patrol

Sun, 15 Feb 2015 23:39:09 GMT

In celebration of Amelia Earhart month we invited a representative from the Civic Air Patrol to our January 2015 program meeting. The following information was provided to our Club:

Do you want to fly? Do you want to honor and serve America? Then rise to the challenge of cadet membership in the US Air Force Auxiliary, Civil Air Patrol.

You’ll find cadet life exciting if you enjoy flying, leadership training, obstacle courses, model rocketry, teambuilding, hiking & camping, earning rank & awards, search & rescue, exploring aviation careers and making friends.

You must be at least 12 but not yet 19 to join as a cadet. CAP also offers opportunities for adults.

On average, cadets meet one night a week for two hours and enjoy special events one Saturday each month. In summer, you can attend a week-long camp.

Annual dues and uniform expenses will total about $100. Other fees may be required for weekend and summer events.

As a cadet, you are never obligated to join the military, but 10% of all Air Force Academy cadets got their start in AP.

Adult volunteers, fingerprinted and screened by the FBI, chaperone all cadet activities.

The benefits of cadet life include develop leadership skills, test-fly potential careers, solidify your moral values and succeed in school.

To learn more, contact CAP at gocivilairpatrol.com

Approved Service Organization Spotlight - Working Against Violence Incorporated (WAVI)

Sun, 15 Feb 2015 23:22:58 GMT

Working Against Violence, Inc (WAV) is a non-profit United Way organization. Since 1978, WAVI has been assisting domestic violence and sexual assault victims. Our staff provides support services, court advocacy, ER response, community education, safety planning and 24-hour emergency shelter. Our volunteers aid in ER response, shelter repairs, child care and much more. WAVI also partners with law enforcement, Victims’ Assistance and the State’s Attorney’s Office to provide comprehensive advocacy for all our clients. In 2013 WAVI served over 2,000 clients, with 592 clients staying in our emergency shelter.

Each of our clients carries their own stories – stories of struggle, trial, overcoming, set-backs, brokenness, healing and much more. Here is one such story, as told by a Case Manager. “I began working with Marcy* at the end of May. She came to shelter with her three children and one on the way. Marcie had been in and out of a DV relationship with the same man for over seven years. She stated she was scared and didn’t know what was going to happen. She explained the distress she was in because she knew she needed to raise her children on her own. While working with Marcy, she enrolled in college, continued working and is in the process of obtaining her own housing. She attends financial literacy classes and agreed to obtain counseling. Although there are setbacks, Marcy says she is remaining positive and will keep moving forward.”

Thank you for your support of WAVI. Together we can work to create a community free of domestic abuse and sexual assault through advocacy, education and support services!

*Name changed

The History of Zonta Club of the Black Hills

Sun, 15 Feb 2015 23:17:56 GMT

Our Zonta Club of the Black Hills was chartered on October 12, 1950. Our first President, Helen Jane Gormley-Hare was a local dermatologist. An elaborate dinner was held to commemorate the event, complete with an ice sculpture “Z”. The event was held at the Alex Johnson Hotel, which still stands today in much of its original form.

Early service projects included donation and delivery to public sites the “Dreypacks” which were used to diagnose diabetes. In 1955 two mental detention rooms were equipped at the Bennett-Clarkson Memorial Hospital. In 1960, Father Pire’s ANNE FRANK Village for War Torn Children was given care packages and cash donations from club members. In 1965 cash gifts were presented to the Boys Club Building Fund, and to Girl’s State.

Even up until 1971, when blood glucose monitors were in use, but expensive, club members were still delivering up to 19,000 “Dreypacks” which cost the club $460.00. From the 1971 results, 196 people were deemed to be “reactors” which meant they had diabetes.

Ruth Hanson, a nurse anesthetist, was President of the Club in 1971-1972. She was also the first ZONTIAN of the YEAR in 1976-77. She later became chair of the newsletter and Club Historian. Much of what we know about the club’s history from its charter to now is because of what Ruth saved, stored, and took pictures of during many of our meetings and events. Our newsletter was called the PAHA SAPA ZONTIAN, of which PAHA SAPA is the Sioux Indian word for the Black Hills. The earliest excerpt from the PAHA SAPA ZONTIAN we have on file is dated August 16, 1964, Vol III, No. 3, with Ruth Hanson as the Editor.

In 1970, the club gave money to the Drug Forum, Boy’s & Girl’s State. In 1975, an original program was started to lend hospital equipment to those in need of recovery at home. By 1980, the club was funding Women Against Violence, which is now known as WAVI (Working Against Violence). We continued to sponsor Boy’s & Girl’s State.

In 1982, the needs of our community had grown, so our club began to plan a unique event that would benefit businesses, enhance the lives of working women, while earning funds for those that had projects worthy of our funds. By 1985, we contributed funds to the following: BH Workshop-Special Olympics, WAVI, Hospital Pediatrics, Boy’s & Girl’s State, and a program for Sexually-Abused Children.

In 1986-88 biennium ZI “Double Five” contest our club achieved a gain of 10 new members per biennium, and was awarded a $50 discount price off the registration fee for the 1988 ZI Convention.

So for the past 32 years, our club has used the ZONTA Woman’s EXPO as an annual fundraiser with various themes, formats, and concepts along the way. It continues to involve women-owned and woman oriented businesses and is an effective and exciting way to recruit new members. Our club has fluctuated in membership from 40-80 members over the past 30 years.

We have received numerous awards from Community organizations for gifting them with funds. There is the Certificate of Appreciation from Dr. Manlove, President of Wellspring, Inc. for being “part of the solution in 1996 as he developed a program for troubled youth. We received the WAVI “Spirit of Peace” award in 19… We had pledged $5,000 for 5 years towards the “ZONTA” Board Room in the lower level of their new building.

Between 1990 and 1993 our ZONTA WOMAN’S EXPO was earning the club between $14,000-$19,000 a year after expenses. We started taking applications for the funding locally, in addition to donating to the Amelia Earhart ZI fund and to UNIFEM annually from 1990-1993. In 1998, we had 1000 EXPO attendees, 110 booths at $100 rental fee, and $19,582 in ticket sales.

We have had two past District 12 Governors from our club, Lois Demos and Dorothy “Bunny” Tyler. We also were proud of our District 12, as we have a PAST INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT, Amy Grubbs.

New Zonta Club Web Site!

Tue, 06 Jan 2015 06:10:01 GMT

Zonta Club of the Black Hills is proud to unveil our new website - 2 years in the making! Some of the site is still under construction but we are constantly adding interesting content. We hope you enjoy the site and tell our sponsors that you saw their logo here! Return soon for more news about Zonta Club of the Black Hills and organizations and causes that we support.