Good morning, Rapid City.

Former editor Keith R.

Ball acquired Easyriders Magazine on September 20 in a ceremony at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and moved its headquarters to historic Main Street in downtown Sturgis—he plans to relaunch the brand with print, online, and YouTube content for motorcycle enthusiasts.

The Department of Labor and Regulation will host the Brew Up Your Future statewide virtual hiring event on Oct.

15 from 1-4 p.m. MDT, where job seekers can connect with employers for same-day interviews plus both groups must register in advance.

Black Hills State University is partnering with SDSU to expand its nursing program at its Rapid City campus, offering state-of-the-art simulation rooms and clinical experiences — up to 72 students can enroll in either the standard or accelerated track each semester.

A wildfire alert has been issued for the Gertie Fire one mile west of Hill City in the Cowboy Gulch area where smoke is visible and no evacuations are in effect.

Firefighters from multiple agencies including engines, water tenders, a dozer, a hand crew and a fire investigator are working on the three to five acre blaze—local officials advise residents not to call 911 to report smoke.

The South Dakota Department of Corrections announced that its inmate work programs, formerly known as Pheasantland Industries, will be renamed Dakota Core beginning November 1—this change aims to clear up confusion over the program name.

The rebranding involved offender input, a new marketing committee, and plans to expand vocational training—efforts that will boost job opportunities in the correctional system.

Vehicle owners can buy a nostalgic entrance sticker featuring a 1960s camping scene from the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks for $40 for residents and $60 for nonresidents, valid from October 1 until May 23, 2027.

A planning panel has arranged state events to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary including Rapid City fireworks on July 2 — more details will be announced later.

Tourists who visited Mount Rushmore on Wednesday were disappointed as the government shutdown closed park ranger services that normally offer guided tours while keeping the gift shop and food services open.

Many visitors said the limited experience reduced the fun of their trip—making it harder for them to fully enjoy the monument.

The Pennington County Commission held its final budget meeting and approved changes that set the 2026 budget at $131 million—its decision will guide spending for the coming year.

South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks announced that 2026 annual park entrance licenses are available—priced at $40 for one and $60 for two, valid from October 1 through May 23 for access to over 60 state parks, though they do not include camping fees.

On Tuesday, the Rapid City Stevens girls tennis team won a 9-0 match over Rapid City Central at Sioux Park Tennis Courts to keep their perfect record.

The Raiders improved to 22-0 on the season while Central fell to 0-17.

Cruiser Car Show

12-4 p.m. — Main Street Square — Free entry — Experience a vibrant atmosphere with classic cars, local vendors, and food trucks in downtown Rapid City.

Live Music with Darin French

5-7 PM — Firehouse Wine Cellars — Enjoy a night of live music while relaxing with great cigars and drinks.

Bierbörse Festival

12-5 p.m. — Main Street Square — 21+ entry required — Celebrate Oktoberfest with a unique beer stock exchange and authentic German cuisine.

Free Google Workshop for Local Businesses

9 AM – 12 PM — The Rushmore Hotel & Suites, BW Premier Collection — Free entry — Learn how to enhance your Google Business Profile and attract more customers organically.

A Night Among the Stars Annual Gala

5-9 p.m. — The Monument — $125 per person — Celebrate the achievements of adults with disabilities in a night filled with dining, honors, and community inspiration.

Innovation Expo

9 AM – 6 PM — Surbeck Center — Check the website for pricing — Connect with entrepreneurs, investors, and key players in the startup ecosystem.

Live Music with The Blind Bard

5-7 p.m. — Firehouse Wine Cellars — Enjoy your weekend with an Americana/Blues/Folk musical experience from The Blind Bard.

Downtown Trick-or-Treat

12-2 p.m. — Main Street Square — Free event — Celebrate Halloween with costumes, candy, and community fun for the whole family.