Good morning, Rapid City.

Hermus Bettelyoun was a longtime community advocate who fought for Native rights and helped the homeless, and he died on April 21 at Monument Health from kidney failure—his wake began at Woyatan Lutheran Church and his funeral will be held tomorrow at Bear Creek Powwow Grounds as the community honors his legacy.

A Pierre man, David Shangreaux, Jr., was convicted by a Hughes County jury on April 30 for the stabbing death of 17-year-old Evie Maxey, who was fatally injured on November 30 in a Pierre apartment, and he now faces a maximum life sentence.

South Dakota teachers earned an average salary of just over 56 thousand dollars as the state improved its national ranking from 49th to 46th for K-12 education.

Education leaders say the change is a positive win—while they note more investment in local teachers is needed.

State lawmakers signed a law on March 11 that permanently raises the 911 surcharge to $2 per telephone line, adding about $7.5 million a year to help cover emergency call center costs—last Thursday, the 911 Coordination Board approved $80,000 in monthly grants and extra payments to hire a service technician in western areas.

Rapid City Hospital earned the highest safety grade in the state from the Leapfrog Group's spring 2025 evaluation — making it the top-rated facility among those assessed.

The grade reflects the hospital's strong record in patient safety.

The First-Annual Pet Gala

6-9 p.m. — Dahl Arts Center — Charity event — Celebrate our furry friends at this semi-formal gala featuring a silent auction for local animal welfare.

Partnering with Wings of Wonder: Airport Readiness Tour

6 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Rapid City Regional Airport — Free entry — Explore travel readiness for families with extra abilities while practicing airport processes.

Buffalo Hunt Coaster Adventure

2:30-3 p.m. — Fort Hays Chuckwagon Supper & Show — Starting at $26 — Experience the thrilling Buffalo Hunt Coaster while aiming at targets and enjoying unlimited rides all day long.

Rainbow Run 5k 2025

8:15 AM – 12:00 PM — Old Storybook Island Shelter — $25 for adults, free under 18 — Experience a vibrant and colorful 5k run for all ages and fitness levels.

City View Trolley Tour

1:30-3:00 p.m. — The Journey Museum — $10.00 — Explore Rapid City's top sites from a quirky trolley while soaking in local history.

Prospector Challenge Finals

May 30, 7 AM – June 1, 4 PM — Central States Fair, Inc. — $3,700 Added Money — A thrilling pole bending competition featuring substantial awards and opportunities for all participants.

Frühlingsfest

1-5 p.m. — Main Street Square — Free entry — Celebrate spring with shopping, live music, and local brews in Rapid City.

Frühlingsfest Spring Festival

12-8 p.m. — Main Street Square — Free entry — Experience a vibrant spring market with handmade goods, local food, and live music for the whole family.