For 15 years, Shirley Wetz and has been the voice or face most Buffalo Chip guests first encounter when planning their Black Hills motorcycle vacation. Shirley’s warmth and upbeat attitude make everyone feel comfortable and welcome, whether they’ve been to the Black Hills dozens of times or are first-time rallygoers. She is happy to take all the time necessary to orient prospective travelers and look for ways to help them get the most out of their stay.
In addition to being a remarkable link between the Buffalo Chip and its guests leading up to the rally, she is often the frontline for those in need of help during the hectic heat of the rally. This means tracking down package deliveries, giving directions, returning lost objects and sometimes even locating lost people.
Buffalo Chip guests aren’t the only ones who’ve noticed Shirley’s desire to go above in beyond. In 2019, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem presented her with the Ruth Ziolkowski Outstanding Hospitality and Service Award from the South Dakota Department of Tourism!
Shirley is integrated into both the agricultural and tourism community and recognizes the importance of sharing our state’s land. She never sits idle! When she’s not at the Buffalo Chip supporting staff and guests, Shirley is busy at work alongside her husband helping operate their family’s 100+ year-old Stirrup Ranch, teaching her grandchildren life on the ranch and serving on the SD AQHA Board of Directors.