Good morning, Rapid City.

Residents and town leaders in Piedmont were upset when state officials approved a 300-acre limestone mine for Simon Contractors without notifying the community in advance.

At a meeting on October 23, locals expressed worry that the mine, which will start running in August and operate until 2043, might hurt air quality, traffic, and property values — current laws did not require public input.

A paleontologist accused of stealing a triceratops skull in Harding County agreed to pay $300,000 to settle a lawsuit + fossil hunter Forest Rush dropped his counterclaim + the settlement ends years-long litigation over a valuable dinosaur find.

This weekend the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra will present Psycho: Film and Orchestra (a live screening of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller paired with Bernard Herrmann’s score) led by guest conductor Thomas Fortner.

The South Dakota Department of Education released its 2024-25 Report Card showing that English Language Arts scores increased by one point to 52 while math scores stayed at 44+ Graduation rates improved to 86 as DOE plans to boost performance with new reading methods and updated math standards.

Rapid City Area Schools is exploring new school year calendars but has not finalized details yet—official changes will be decided after further review.

South Dakota Mines Professor Emeritus Donald Teets, D.A. received a prestigious mathematics honor for his work that connects math, history — and astronomy.

He began his research 30 years ago to resolve differences in calculus textbooks, and his study now earns widespread recognition.

Geology and Paleontology of the Badlands

6-8 p.m. — Aqua & Acre Market — Under 18 with parent or guardian — Discover the fascinating rocks and fossils of the Badlands National Park area in this informative two-part class.

Black Jacket Symphony Live

6:30-8 p.m. — The Monument — Ticket prices may apply — Experience classic albums performed live by talented musicians.

Pinky & The Floyd: 50th Anniversary of Wish You Were Here

8-11 p.m. — 707 Sports Bar & Nightlife — Tickets available online — Celebrate the iconic sounds of Pink Floyd with a special tribute performance.

South Dakota State Jackrabbits Women's Basketball vs. Montana Grizzlies

6-9 p.m. — Summit Arena — Tickets required — Watch an exciting women's basketball showdown between the Jackrabbits and Grizzlies.

Kansas City Mavericks vs. Rapid City Rush

6:05-7:35 p.m. — The Monument — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement of Friday night hockey with the Rapid City Rush taking on the Kansas City Mavericks.

Raptorpalooza Holiday Market

10 AM – 3 PM — East Middle School — Free — Shop handmade gifts, crafts, and festive treats while supporting local students and a community food drive.