Good morning, Rapid City.

Stardust Motel in Rapid City reopened its renovated property on May 9 after 15 months of work that added new security measures, modern updates to all 32 rooms, and a refreshed exterior.

Owner John Ashley, manager Donna Gilbert and builder Rick Askvig helped lower monthly police calls from about 50 to 10 or 15 — signaling a bold new start for this historic motel.

On May 9, a pickup truck hit an electrical box near Pendleton Drive and Culvert Street causing a power outage in southern Rapid City—36-year-old Bronson Byrd from San Juan Capo was taken into custody Saturday and is now in Pennington County jail.

GasBuddy’s survey of 628 stations shows that South Dakota gas prices dropped by 4.4 cents per gallon over the past week to average $2.95 per gallon today, which is 5.2 cents lower than a month ago and 29.4 cents lower than a year ago & refineries have finished seasonal maintenance in preparation to boost output.

Tourism leaders met in early May and said that high prices, inflation, and trade worries may lower travel spending in South Dakota this season—making tourists more cost-conscious.

Officials warned that fewer bookings between major events might cut local revenue and force businesses to adjust their marketing tactics—intensifying concerns for the tourism season.

Dr. Whitnee Coy of Rapid City received the Eastern Kentucky University Young Alumni Award for her work and will soon release new books that share her ideas.

The honor recognizes young alumni under 40 who have made strong contributions to their fields and communities.

South Dakota's latest recycling report shows that most glass bottles and jars still end up in landfills—glass recycling dropped to only one-tenth of one percent last year as many towns do not accept glass and shipping costs from rural areas remain high.

Without policy or market changes, this trend will likely continue.

A judge will consider extending protections for an international student at South Dakota Mines in a trial set for today at 9 a.m. The student is asking for a preliminary injunction.

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.

City View Trolley Tour

1:30-3:30 p.m. — The Journey Museum — $10.00 — Explore Rapid City's top sights aboard a fun and quirky trolley ride.

She's Gonna Bolt! 5K Walk/Run

12 AM – 12 PM — Founders Park — $200+ in donations — Participate in a community-driven 5K for Alzheimer's and dementia awareness inspired by a personal story.

Whiskey Myers Live Concert

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Summit Arena — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of Southern rock with Whiskey Myers and special guests Bayker Blankenship and Pony Bradshaw.