HDSA South Dakota to Host Fall Education Day in Sioux Falls
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — The South Dakota Chapter of the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) will host its 2025 Fall Education Day on Sunday, Sept. 28, at Sanford Medical Center in Sioux Falls. The event begins at 11:30 a.m. in the Schroeder Auditorium, 1305 W. 18th St. The informational program is designed for individuals […]
Beresford FFA Member Named National Finalist in Proficiency Awards
BROOKINGS, S.D. — South Dakota FFA members are receiving national recognition for their achievements in agriculture through the National FFA Proficiency Award program. The awards honor FFA members who develop career-ready skills through supervised agricultural experiences, or SAEs. Students can apply in one of 45 areas, ranging from fruit production to beef and swine entrepreneurship. […]
Wags and Waves fundraiser returns Aug. 31 at Sioux Park Pool
RAPID CITY—City Parks and Rec officials will once again turn the Jimmy Hilton Sioux Park pool over to the dogs…literally! One of Rapid City’s most popular summer events is set to take place Sunday, August 31 with the 10th annual Wags and Waves fundraiser event, hosted by the Humane Society of the Black Hills. The […]
Central Wyoming College secures $2.3 million grant to continue TRIO student support services
RIVERTON, Wyo. — Central Wyoming College has been awarded a five-year, $2.3 million federal grant to sustain its TRIO Student Support Services program, which provides resources to first-generation, low-income and disabled students. The funding, from the U.S. Department of Education, will continue to back academic advising, financial aid guidance, tutoring and mentoring that help students […]
Three Sanford Researchers Secure $8 Million in NIH Grants for Cancer, Eating Disorder and Drug Development Studies
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Research has been awarded more than $8 million in federal funding to advance studies on ovarian cancer, binge eating disorders and drug development through G protein–coupled receptor signaling. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants will support three principal investigators leading projects with potential national and global impact. Dr. Leah […]
Ribbon Cutting Set for Shepherd Hills Water Booster Pump Station
RAPID CITY, S.D. – Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun will join community and development officials Tuesday, Aug. 26, at 10 a.m. for the ribbon cutting of the Shepherd Hills Regional Water Booster Pump Station at 1851 E. Anamosa St. The $5.1 million facility went online in April and delivers water to one of the city’s […]
Coolest Thing Made in the Black Hills Competition Launches Ahead of National Manufacturing Month
RAPID CITY, S.D. – Elevate Rapid City and the Black Hills Manufacturing Alliance are inviting area manufacturers to showcase their creativity in the inaugural Coolest Thing Made in the Black Hills competition. The contest, announced Monday, is designed to highlight local manufacturing ahead of National Manufacturing Month in October. Submissions are open through Aug. 27, […]
Deadline Extended for Mount Rushmore Road BID Board Applications
RAPID CITY, S.D. – The City of Rapid City has extended the deadline for applications to serve on the board of directors for the newly formed Mount Rushmore Road Business Improvement District (BID). The submission window now runs through 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 25, after some applicants experienced difficulties with the initial process. City officials […]
Lowe’s Hometowns Project to Build Playground for EmpowerEd Students in Rapid City
RAPID CITY, S.D. (Aug. 16, 2025) – A Rapid City nonprofit school will soon have a new outdoor play space thanks to a national community improvement initiative. EmpowerEd has been selected as a Lowe’s Hometowns project — one of 100 large-scale renovations chosen this year to revitalize nonprofit and community spaces across the country. Now […]
South Dakota Legacy Speaker Series to Spotlight Growth and Innovation in West River
RAPID CITY, S.D. – Business leaders and community members will gather at the Dahl Arts Center on Aug. 13 for the launch of the South Dakota Legacy Speaker Series, an event aimed at exploring strategies to fuel growth and innovation in West River communities. The first session, “Fueling Growth & Innovation in West River,” will […]
NSF Awards $7 Million to Launch Ge-STAR Germanium Research Initiative in South Dakota
RAPID CITY, S.D. — The National Science Foundation has awarded a $7 million EPSCoR RII E-RISE grant to launch Ge-STAR — Germanium-based Science and Technology Advancement Research — a statewide project that will involve research at the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) in Lead. Led by the University of South Dakota, Ge-STAR aims to position […]
Black Hills Energy Marks Aug. 11 as 811 Day, Urges Safe Digging Across South Dakota
RAPID CITY, S.D. (Aug. 11, 2025) — Black Hills Energy is urging South Dakotans to “Call Before You Dig” as part of 811 Day, a nationwide safety reminder to prevent damage to underground utility lines. With summer being a peak time for home improvement and outdoor projects, officials say hitting buried gas, electric or communication […]
SD FFA Foundation Names Kaltvedt as Executive Assistant
RAPID CITY, S.D. — The South Dakota FFA Foundation has named Tracy Kaltvedt as its new executive assistant, succeeding Gretchen Sharp, who retired after 24 years of service. Kaltvedt, a 1997-98 South Dakota FFA state sentinel, brings a background in project management, operations, process improvement and data security. She has also been a longtime supporter […]
Fork Real Community Café to Host 4th Annual Chef’s Dinner Auction in October
RAPID CITY, S.D. — Fork Real Community Café will host its 4th Annual Chef’s Dinner Auction on Saturday, Oct. 11, at 5 p.m. at The Box – Ellsworth Salon A in Box Elder. The fundraiser will feature culinary creations from local chefs and unique dining experiences, all in support of the café’s mission to strengthen […]
YMCA of Rapid City Awarded 2025 Taco Bell Foundation Grant to Support Teen Education and Career Programs
RAPID CITY, S.D. (Aug. 4, 2025) — The YMCA of Rapid City has received a 2025 Community Grant from the Taco Bell Foundation to support local youth education and career readiness programs across the Black Hills. The funding will expand the YMCA’s ability to provide teens with essential resources to build leadership skills, prepare for […]
Producers Invited to Explore Organic Beef Transition at Field Day Near Philip
PHILIP, S.D. – August 6, 2025 – South Dakota beef producers interested in transitioning to organic practices are invited to a hands-on field day hosted by the South Dakota Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) on Friday, August 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. MDT near Philip, South Dakota. The free event will provide practical insight […]
SDN Communications Elects New Board Leadership, Welcomes Golden West CEO
RAPID CITY, S.D. – Aug. 4, 2025 – SDN Communications, the regional broadband provider interconnecting South Dakota’s rural telecom network, has announced a new executive team and board member following its annual Board of Managers meeting. Ross Petrick, General Manager and CEO of Alliance Communications in Garretson, was elected as the new President of the […]
New Campaign Keeps Campers Hydrated While Raising Awareness About Heat Safety
RAPID CITY, S.D. (Aug. 1, 2025) — Progressive Insurance® and American Park Network are teaming up to keep campers cool this summer with the launch of Thirst for Adventure — a new campaign designed to promote hydration, reward outdoor enthusiasts, and raise awareness about heat-related safety in parks nationwide. Just in time for the height […]
Buche’s Gus Stop Opens in Lower Brule with Community Celebration August 8
LOWER BRULE, S.D. (July 31, 2025) – G.F. Buche Co. will officially open its newest location, Buche’s Gus Stop – Lower Brule, on Friday, August 8, with a grand opening event aimed at welcoming the community and celebrating continued investment in South Dakota’s tribal communities. The festivities begin at 11 a.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony […]
A&W Restaurants Celebrate National Root Beer Float Day 2025 with Free Floats and Support for Veterans
RAPID CITY, S.D. (July 30, 2025) — A&W Restaurants in Rapid City and across the Black Hills will celebrate National Root Beer Float Day on Wednesday, August 6, with free treats and a patriotic purpose. From 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., guests can enjoy a free small Root Beer Float at participating locations — no […]
Architecture Incorporated Celebrates 49 Years and Supports Education Innovation with New Grant Program
RAPID CITY, S.D. (July 29, 2025) — Architecture Incorporated is marking 49 years of delivering creative design solutions and trusted service across South Dakota and the surrounding region. Since opening its doors in 1976, the firm has partnered with clients on transformative projects that shape communities and inspire connection. As the firm nears its 50th […]
Support South Dakota Pediatric Patients by Buying a Blizzard on July 31
RAPID CITY, S.D. (July 28, 2025) – On Thursday, July 31, Dairy Queen fans across the Black Hills, northeast Wyoming, and western Nebraska can support local pediatric patients during this year’s Miracle Treat Day—a nationwide fundraiser benefiting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. For every Blizzard® Treat purchased at participating locations, $1 or more will be donated […]
Black Hills Farmers Markets Host Events for National Farmers Market Week
PIERRE, S.D. — Farmers markets across South Dakota will join a nationwide celebration August 3–9 as part of National Farmers Market Week 2025, spotlighting the important role local markets play in building community, strengthening food systems, and supporting small-scale producers. The observance, proclaimed annually by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and coordinated by the Farmers […]
New Rapid City-Based Hiring Site FOQUS™ Focuses on Skills-First Employment
RAPID CITY, S.D. — July 28, 2025 — A new hiring platform designed in the Black Hills is gaining traction among Rapid City employers and job seekers. FOQUS™ (pronounced like “focus”) is a rebranded and expanded version of the employment tool built by OneHeart, a local nonprofit committed to workforce development. Now live at www.foqus.work, […]
YMCA of Rapid City Looks to Future with New Leadership
RAPID CITY, S.D. — July 25, 2025 — The YMCA of Rapid City has appointed Kristy Lintz as its new Chief Operations Officer, bringing decades of experience in recreation, operations, and community leadership to the organization. In her new role, Lintz will oversee operations across four YMCA branch locations in the Black Hills region, focusing […]
GrandStay Hotel Completes Major Renovation in Rapid City
RAPID CITY, S.D. — The GrandStay Residential Suites Hotel in Rapid City has completed a full-scale renovation, unveiling a sleek, modern design aimed at today’s travelers. Located near downtown Rapid City and major Black Hills attractions, the updated property blends style, comfort, and functionality—whether for a one-night stopover or an extended visit. The transformation includes […]
Sanford Lab Program Sends South Dakota Students Around the World for STEM Exploration
LEAD, S.D. (July 23, 2025) — For eight aspiring scientists, the Davis-Bahcall Scholar Program at the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) offered more than just a summer break—it opened the door to global research opportunities and career-shaping experiences rooted in South Dakota’s scientific legacy. The monthlong program, designed for rising college freshmen and sophomores pursuing […]
Gov. Rhoden Appoints Jim Schmidt to South Dakota Board of Economic Development
PIERRE, S.D. — South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden has appointed Lincoln County Commissioner Jim Schmidt to the South Dakota Board of Economic Development, the state announced Tuesday. “South Dakota relies on strong leaders like Jim who dedicate their lives to service and leave things better than they found them,” Gov. Rhoden said in a statement. […]
Sturgis Harley-Davidson Debuts Limited-Edition Motorcycle Giveaway and Main Street Sales During Historic 85th Rally
STURGIS, S.D. — July 22, 2025 — For the first time in Sturgis Motorcycle Rally history, rallygoers will have the opportunity to purchase or win one of 26 exclusive Sturgis Edition Harley-Davidson motorcycles—part of a sweeping regional celebration by Sonic Automotive that includes the first-ever dealership located directly in downtown Sturgis. The new Sturgis Harley-Davidson, […]
South Dakota-Based Peer Program Named Suicide Prevention Best Practice
RAPID CITY, S.D. — Lost&Found’s Peer2Peer Mentorship program has earned a spot on the Suicide Prevention Resource Center’s Best Practices Registry, marking a major milestone for the South Dakota-based nonprofit dedicated to youth mental health. The Best Practices Registry is a national database of programs proven to prevent suicide through evidence-based strategies. Inclusion in the […]
Drone Financing, Online Markets, and Real-Time Records: agGRO Powers AgTech Growth
RAPID CITY, S.D. — agGRO, a digital ag lending platform, is expanding access to credit for producers across Western South Dakota by streamlining the financing process for production, equipment, and AgTech loans. Focused on supporting smaller-scale and beginning farmers and ranchers, agGRO blends agricultural lending expertise with modern technology to make borrowing easier, faster, and […]
Barnes & Noble Celebrates Grand Opening in Rapid City
RAPID CITY, S.D. – July 16, 2025 — Barnes & Noble has officially opened its new bookstore in Rapid City, bringing a national brand and a fresh literary hub to the Black Hills. Located in Rushmore Crossing at 1617 Eglin Street, the new 20,000-square-foot store welcomed book lovers Wednesday morning with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and […]
Rapid City Regional Airport Sets New Passenger Record in the Black Hills
RAPID CITY, S.D. — July 16, 2025 — Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) reported a record-breaking second quarter, with 119,178 passengers boarding flights between April and June — a 13.3% increase compared to the same period last year. The figure marks the highest Q2 enplanement total in the airport’s history, signaling continued growth for air […]
Rapid City’s Coolest Fundraiser Returns with Miracle Treat Day at DQ
RAPID CITY, S.D. – Dairy Queen® fans in Rapid City and across the Black Hills can satisfy their sweet tooth for a good cause later this month. On Wednesday, July 31, all participating Dairy Queen locations in Rapid City will celebrate Miracle Treat Day®, where at least $1 from every Blizzard® Treat sold will benefit […]
Grant Funds Meals for Kids in Edgemont YMCA Summer Program
RAPID CITY, S.D. — The Edgemont YMCA, a branch of the YMCA of Rapid City, has received a $3,000 grant from FCSAmerica’s Working Here Fund to support food services for children attending its 2025 summer day camp. The funding allowed the organization to serve over 450 free breakfasts and snacks throughout the five-week program, which […]
STEAM Ahead: Rapid City Students Explore, Innovate, and Achieve
RAPID CITY, S.D. — More than 1,200 local students are reaping the benefits of engaging, hands-on learning beyond the traditional classroom thanks to the 21st Century Discovery and Club Hub Programs, which will be celebrated Tuesday, July 15, at General Beadle Elementary during the annual Great STEAM Expedition. The event showcases the transformative impact of […]
Silencer Central CEO Brandon Maddox Appointed to NSSF Board of Governors
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Brandon Maddox, founder and CEO of Silencer Central, has been appointed to the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) Board of Governors, a move that further elevates South Dakota’s profile in the national firearms industry. Maddox, who leads the nation’s top suppressor sales company, will join a group of business leaders from […]
Business Growth Starts Here: Rapid City Library Offers Free Tools for Local Entrepreneurs
RAPID CITY, S.D. — The Rapid City Public Library isn’t just a place for books—it’s becoming a hidden powerhouse for local business development in the Black Hills. For entrepreneurs and small business owners across Rapid City and western South Dakota, the library offers a robust suite of free resources that can help with everything from […]
Elevate Rapid City Receives $500K to Boost Black Hills Tech Startups
RAPID CITY, S.D. — Tech entrepreneurs in western South Dakota are getting a significant boost as the South Dakota Board of Economic Development has approved a $500,000 loan to Elevate Rapid City to launch a revolving seed fund for early-stage technology startups. The funding, awarded through the SD Works Legacy Fund, is part of a […]
Driven Fire Consultants Expands Presence with New Office in Rapid City
RAPID CITY, S.D. — Driven Fire Consultants has announced the opening of a permanent office in Rapid City, marking a significant expansion of its footprint in western South Dakota. The new two-level facility, located at 650 Flormann Street, includes an unfinished basement with potential for future growth. The opening reflects Driven Fire Consultants’ long-term commitment […]
Barnes & Noble to Open New Rapid City Store July 16
RAPID CITY, S.D. — July 9, 2025 — Barnes & Noble is opening its first location in Rapid City on Wednesday, July 16, bringing the national bookseller to the heart of the Black Hills. The new 20,000-square-foot store is located at 1617 Eglin St. in Rushmore Crossing, in the former Big Lots space next to […]
Black Hills Goats Take a Bite Out of Wildfire Risk
DEADWOOD, S.D. — July 8, 2025 — A herd of 24 goats is taking on a new job in the Black Hills—clearing invasive brush and reducing fire danger through a unique partnership between T-Top Timber & Homestead Co. and Dakota Gold Corp. The targeted grazing project officially launched this week on Dakota Gold’s property along […]
Allegiant Celebrates 20 Years of Service at Rapid City Regional Airport
RAPID CITY, S.D. (July 7, 2025) — Allegiant Air is celebrating a major milestone in the Black Hills, marking 20 years of nonstop service at Rapid City Regional Airport. Since launching flights in 2005, the Las Vegas-based airline has flown more than 1.3 million passengers to and from Rapid City, helping connect the region to […]
BUILDING PERMITS VALUED AT $33 MILLION ISSUED FOR MONTH OF JUNE
RAPID CITY, SD—The City issued 234 building permits in June with a combined valuation of more than $33 million. The valuation total was the fourth-highest total ever recorded for Rapid City for the month of June and nearly $20 million higher than the valuation total recorded in June 2024. The City has issued 1,153 building […]
New Sports Complex Planned for Rapid City’s Northeast Side
RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Rapid City officials unveiled a major downtown development plan Wednesday, announcing the donation of nearly 23 acres of land by Pete Lien & Sons for a proposed indoor sports complex aimed at bolstering athletic opportunities and economic growth in the Black Hills region. Mayor Jason Salamun, joined by representatives from Pete Lien & Sons, Black Hills […]
Sanford Health Acquires Rapid City’s Creekside Medical Clinic, Expanding Reach in the Black Hills
RAPID CITY, S.D. — Sanford Health is expanding its footprint in the Black Hills with the acquisition of Creekside Medical Clinic, a long-standing, physician-owned primary care provider in Rapid City. The Sioux Falls-based health system announced Monday that Creekside will officially join the Sanford network on Sept. 1, 2025. The clinic, located on Jackson Boulevard, […]
PUC commissioners appoint Mohr as executive director
PIERRE, SOUTH DAKOTA – South Dakota Public Utilities Commissioners Gary Hanson, Chris Nelson and Kristie Fiegen have appointed Leah Mohr as the agency’s executive director. She has worked for the commission for the past 19 years, serving as the PUC’s deputy executive director since 2009. She replaces Patricia Van Gerpen who recently retired, wrapping up […]
Major Redevelopment Underway at Former Albertsons Site in Downtown Rapid City
RAPID CITY, S.D. — A long-vacant corner in the heart of Rapid City is getting a major facelift. The former Albertsons—and later Family Thrift Center—at 855 Omaha Street is being transformed by Dream Design International, a local development firm with deep roots in the Black Hills. The 45,000-square-foot structure has sat empty since 2017, but […]
BHHBA Hosts Youth Construction Day in Rapid City
RAPID CITY, S.D. — A new generation of builders will get their hands on tools of the trade during a youth-focused construction experience hosted by the Black Hills Home Builders Association (BHHBA), in partnership with Hills View Homes and the Boys & Girls Club of the Black Hills. The event will take place Tuesday, July […]
Reaves Buildings to Host Hill City Barndominium Open House
HILL CITY, S.D. — Reaves Buildings will host an open house Thursday, June 26, from 4 to 8 p.m. to showcase a newly constructed barndominium at 23707 Burnt Fork Road, just outside Hill City. The event marks the company’s reintroduction to the Rapid City and Black Hills region, featuring new Territory Sales Manager Cory Jobgen. […]
BHFCU’s Member Auto Sale Rolls into Rapid City with Deals, Gas Cards and Community Spirit
RAPID CITY, S.D. — One of the Black Hills’ longest-running vehicle sales events is back and bigger than ever. Black Hills Federal Credit Union (BHFCU) is celebrating 35 years of community connection with its annual Member Auto Sale, taking place Saturday, June 28, from 8 to 11 a.m. at 2700 N Plaza Drive in Rapid […]
Seizing South Dakota’s Moment on the World Stage
RAPID CITY, S.D. — With support from state leaders and business communities across South Dakota, a new public-private initiative is helping the state broaden its presence on the international stage. South Dakota Trade (SDT), established in 2023 through efforts led by the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and business advocates in Rapid City, Sioux Falls […]
BankWest Welcomes Nicole C. Nachtigal as Vice President, Trust Division Manager
PIERRE– BankWest is pleased to announce the appointment of Nicole C. Nachtigal as Vice President, Trust Division Manager. With more than two decades of experience in fiduciary administration, estate settlement, and wealth management, Nicole brings an exceptional depth of knowledge to BankWest’s clients—particularly small business owners and multigenerational family farms. Nicole’s legal and fiduciary background has […]
Western Dakota Technical College Announces Dr. Kendra Ericson as 10th President
RAPID CITY, SD – Western Dakota Technical College (WDTC) Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that on Wednesday, June 11, the board unanimously approved Kendra Ericson, Ph.D., as the 10th President of WDTC, effective July 1, 2025. Dr. Ericson assumes the role of president following the tragic passing of Dr. Ann Bolman in late September 2024.The Board […]
Camp DRIVE 2025 Rolls Into Summer With Hands-On Fun and High-Octane Learning
What do tires, cornhole, footballs and virtual welding have in common? They all came together to make this year’s Camp DRIVE an unforgettable experience for 40 lucky teens in Rapid City. On June 6 and 7, Weston and Tenise Chapman, founders of Black Hills Tire, welcomed a new group of bright-eyed kids ages 12 to […]
Midco Unveils Multi-Gig Internet Expansion in Box Elder
BOX ELDER, S.D. — June 11, 2025 —Midco has announced a $470,000 investment to expand its high-speed fiber network in Box Elder, bringing symmetrical 1-gigabit internet speeds—and even faster multi-gigabit options—to homes and businesses, including those on Ellsworth Air Force Base. This local initiative is part of the company’s larger $500 million “Fiber Forward” campaign, […]
Shift Garage: A Non-Profit’s Mission to Keep Rapid City Moving
In the heart of the Black Hills, a unique non-profit organization is making a significant impact on the lives of those facing transportation challenges in Rapid City and the surrounding areas. Shift Garage, an automotive repair and education center, is providing crucial services to individuals and families experiencing financial hardship, often charging only for parts […]