Good morning, Rapid City.

Two South Dakota students were named U.S. Presidential Scholars after the U.S. Department of Education released the list in September.

Bryn Marietta (a Rapid City Stevens High School graduate) studied physiology and cell and molecular biology at USD, while Ernest Ting (a Brookings High School graduate) attended Caltech to study Information and Data Sciences and join the track team.

South Dakota Wildland Fire is cautioning residents in western and southwestern South Dakota of critical fire weather today due to dry fuels, high temperatures, and gusty winds.

The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning—Rapid City and nearby communities should avoid outdoor burning and spark-producing activities to prevent wildfires.

On Oct. 10, South Dakota journalists, students and residents can join a free training session on the state’s court system—judges and staff will explain how to access documents and hearings, and participants can join online or in person at Rapid City and Sioux Falls with in-person sessions starting at 8 a.m.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem hosted a naturalization ceremony at Mount Rushmore on Oct.2 where 72 new citizens, including Rose Wah, received citizenship as officials like U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson and Gov. Larry Rhoden spoke at the event.

The ceremony occurred amid a national crackdown on illegal immigration—an issue that was not mentioned during the speeches.

The Rapid City Legal and Finance Committee approved $60,000 for Minneluzahan Senior Center after a Sept 2 mention on the city budget meeting flagged concerns over needed improvements—its proposal now moves to City Council for final approval.

Tribal leaders are making deals with state law enforcement and schools that may lower their tribes' power.

South Dakota tribes have kept a legal firewall—protecting their rights—but if state agreements continue, that shield could be lost in the future.

The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe met with Blue Stone Strategy Partners in Eagle Butte on September 25 to collect details from each department and plan a new tribal headquarters that will bring scattered offices together.

Experts like Frank Scopetti and Meghan Marks will use the information to create bubble diagrams and draft blueprints — setting the stage for a modern facility.

At the Cinch Governor’s Cup in Sioux Falls — a key rodeo event — Ky Hamilton won the bull riding title with strong rides that boost his standing ahead of the National Finals Rodeo.

Rocker Steiner and team ropers Driggers/Junior Nogueira also earned wins that help shape world rankings for the upcoming event.

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.