February’s Citizen of the Month is an outstanding couple that works all year long to promote the ranching industry in Western South Dakota. As Mayor of Rapid City, I am pleased to present this Citizen of the Month award to Joe and Diane Norman.

Joe Norman is President of the Black Hills Stock Show Foundation. The Foundation, which was started in 1992, is a group of individuals working to preserve and bring awareness to the principles that are the cornerstone of the Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo. Joe is recognized for his contributions to the Stock Show, the industry and community. Joe’s commitment to supporting local interests can be seen in the Foundation's support of programs such as the Central States Fair, Western Junior Livestock Show, Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo and the Rapid City Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee. Part of the success of the annual Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo is the direct result of the efforts and leadership of Joe and Diane Norman.

Diane Norman serves as the Foundation’s Community Relations Director. Her involvement is to bring awareness of the Foundation’s year round activities in academic and community projects. This year, under Diane’s guidance, the successful 2004 BHSS Foundation Cowboy Calendar, titled “Ranch Dressing,” has provided funding for the Foundation’s scholarship programs. Both Normans have worked to grow the existing fundraising base and development of new programs like the Foundation’s Memorial & Business Endowment.

Joe and Diane Norman are two individuals that believe there’s no opportunity too big or too small if it achieves the end result of helping students and families attain education goals and aiding the ranching industry. They have dedicated themselves to promoting the importance of education of young people, the community events and the Ag industry.

Joe proudly says that the Norman family has ranched in this area since 1881 and he carries on the tradition of his father and brother of community service and volunteer work for the Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo. We salute Joe and Diane Norman for their outstanding efforts to promote the ranching industry and the important role it plays in the prosperity of Western South Dakota.

Joe and Diane ranch east of Piedmont and have two children.