RAPID CITY, S.D. – Visit Rapid City has unveiled its newest addition to its City of Presidents. A bronze effigy of President Donald J. Trump will soon join the historical walk downtown, adorned with his red tie, golden hair, and even a smartphone with the former twitter logo etched into it. Locals gathered at the Elks Theater on Saturday to take pictures and chat with the artist, local officials, and even Congressman Dusty Johnson.
“I’m excited. I’ve been waiting for this to happen since we moved here 6 years ago,” said Lori Cudmore, a local to Summerset, S.D., “It’s a great day for America and a great day for Rapid City.”
The statue of Donald Trump was designed by local artist Jim Maher, who has designed 11 other president statues in Downtown Rapid City. Those include Andrew Jackson, James Buchanan, Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson, Grover Cleveland, Woodrow Wilson, Herbert Hoover, Harry S. Truman, Lyndon B. Johnson, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, George W. Bush, and now Donald Trump.
“I knew it would be a controversial piece,” said Maher, “I had friends that told me it would ruin my career. I had other friends tell me that it’d be the greatest thing I’d ever done. I think the truth is probably somewhere in the middle of that.”
While many are excited about the addition to Downtown Rapid City, there are others who oppose it. Indivisible Rapid City, a local activist group, met outside the Elks Theater to protest the statue’s unveiling. Many are concerned with President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency and what the statue represents.
“This is what veterans are dealing with, this is what people on Medicare and Medicaid are dealing with. They’re afraid. And putting a statue in downtown Rapid City, that just exacerbates the problem,” said Roseanna Renaud with Indivisible Rapid City.
The City of Presidents started in the year 2000 by Don Purdue, inspired by his idea of using bronze from statues of Stalin that were being removed from Russian streets at the time. While Don passed in 2023, his son Richard is happy to see the project continue.
"It is so amazing to be able to walk downtown and see how many people are interacting with these statues,” said Richard Purdue, “they're learning a little bit about history, they're teaching their children, and just thank you Visit Rapid City for making sure this goes into the future."
The statue will be placed on the corner of 6 th street and Saint Joseph street sometime in September. For the time being, it will be on display in the Rapid City Visitor Center on Main Street. Visit Rapid City has stated that they’d like to display all future president statues in the visitor center the summer prior to being installed.
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Republican Congressman Dusty Johnson spoke at the ceremony and sent a special video message to the president
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A bronze statue of <a href="/topic/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> was unveiled in <a href="/topic/south-dakota">South Dakota</a> on Saturday to a half-empty auditorium
Trump’s life-size likeness is the latest addition to The City of Presidents in <a href="/topic/rapid-city">Rapid City</a>, a privately funded arts project that produces statues of all sitting presidents.
Republican Congressman Dusty Johnson attended the ceremony and sent a special video message to the president.
“Mr. President, we are here in Rapid City, we are just about ready to unveil your statue,” Johnson said, before handing off to a young woman named Samantha.
“President Trump, sir, thank you so much for everything you are doing for our country,” Samantha said. “We are really grateful for you out here in South Dakota, clearly.”
Johnson then lifted the camera to show the auditorium, with multiple empty seats. Those in attendance cheered.
Trump later shared the video message on his Truth Social page but did not comment further.
At the ceremony, Johnson was joined by Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun and the artist behind the statue, Jim Maher, who admitted he was not the biggest fan of Trump – and that he had taken time to consider if he would make the statue.
“Like I said in my remarks, I have kind of a moderate view of it,” Maher told the Rapid City Journal. “I appreciate some of the things he’s done, but I’m not crazy about him like some people are, so I thought I could do a good job, a fair job.”
According to local outlets, during the ceremony, around 100 protesters gathered at Main Street Square.
Johnson referenced the group in his remarks, telling the audience that each of the presidents already on Rapid City's streets "were opposed by and hated by millions."
"Now we don't erect these statues to focus on those differences. We erect these statues instead to celebrate the unity and the achievements of their time," Johnson said, per the Journal.
He added that while “most statues are history. This one feels more like current events.”
The City of Presidents—a nonpartisan arts project—began in 2000 to honor all U.S. presidents. Statues line the streets in downtown Rapid City.
Trump’s statue will be housed at the Rapid City Visitor Center for the summer season beginning on May 5, before being moved to a permanent location in the city.
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Officials unveiled a bronze statue of President Donald Trump at the Elks Theater in downtown Rapid City on Saturday
Officials unveiled a bronze statue of President Donald Trump at the Elks Theatre in Rapid City on Saturday afternoon
About 100 people attended the public event as that many stood in Main Street Square <a href="https://rapidcityjournal.com/news/local/article_e3150b80-2ff3-4487-ad83-7b63d85ad881.html" target="_blank">protesting the president</a>
whose likeness rested underneath a large red cloth until local artist Jim Maher and donor Paul Bradsky revealed the statue
"I have no doubt that Trump will be one of the more consequential figures in American history," Maher said before unveiling the statue
"What those consequences are have yet to be determined."
A bronze statue of President Donald Trump hidden underneath red cloth prior to its unveiling on Saturday afternoon at the Elks Theater in Rapid City
Other speakers included Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun
Laurie Sutterer with Visit Rapid City and Richard Purdue (son of City of Presidents founder Don Purdue)
Trump is depicted standing at a podium with a mic
Making his signature hand gesture of thumb and middle finger pinched together
the president appears to be in the middle of speaking a word
Artist Jim Maher unveils a bronze statue of President Donald Trump on Saturday afternoon at the Elks Theater in Rapid City
resting on it: a cell phone with the Twitter logo
"The second administration seems to have kind of a new dynamic that wasn't really present in the first
It seemed like the first term was a lot more talk and tweets
A man takes a photo of the newly-unveiled statue of President Donald Trump on Saturday afternoon at the Elks Theater in Rapid City
Maher has done several other sculptures in the City of Presidents
Asked about how artists are selected, Ally Formanek, interim CEO for <a href="https://rapidcityjournal.com/news/local/business/article_fa083041-ea76-4c57-a180-fe2a7c8f28fe.html" target="_blank">Visit Rapid City</a>
"There aren't too terribly many to choose from
So usually if the artist is willing and able
We only have had a select few over the years."
The Bradsky and Patton families both commissioned the Trump sculpture in memory of Walter and Elizabeth "Betty" Bradsky
Paul Bradsky described Trump as a leader who made history as the second president to be elected to two non-consecutive terms (Grover Cleveland is the other)
The statue was commissioned after Trump's first term
A bronze statue of President Donald Trump was unveiled on Saturday afternoon at the Elks Theater in Rapid City
right here in Rapid City and beyond," Bradsky said
About 100 people attended the unveiling of a bronze statue of President Donald Trump on Saturday afternoon at the Elks Theater in Rapid City
referencing the group of protesters just down the street
said each of the presidents already on Rapid City's streets "were opposed by and hated by millions."
A woman points next to the newly-unveiled statue of President Donald Trump on Saturday afternoon at the Elks Theater in Rapid City
"Now we don't erect these statues to focus on those differences
We erect these statues instead to celebrate the unity and the achievements of their time," Johnson said
He highlighted the replacement of North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA); the First Step Act
which was a bipartisan effort aimed at improving criminal justice outcomes
according to the Federal Bureau of Prisons; and the Abraham Accords
aimed at winning broader recognition of Israel in the Arab world
This one feels more like current events," Johnson said
I'll admit it's a little odd as we talk about these accomplishments of his first term
It's a bit odd here getting ready to look at a statue of someone that I know
The bronze statue of President Donald Trump on Saturday afternoon at the Elks Theater in Rapid City
The Bradsky and Patton families paid for the sculpture in memory of Walter and Elizabeth "Betty" Bradsky
Johnson then took a moment to record and text a video message to Trump telling him the statue was about to be unveiled
It did not appear the president immediately responded
Salamun said the presidents statues are not just about presidents
The newly-unveiled bronze statue of President Donald Trump stands on Saturday afternoon at the Elks Theater in Rapid City
The mayor said there's something that distinguishes every president
He noted Calvin Coolidge's "pragmatism" and Ronald Reagan's "relatability."
"President Trump reminds us to go for greatness
as somebody who loves big vision and is passionate about this community
I'm very inspired by President Trump and the way that he approaches leadership here in the United States of America."
A photo with the twitter logo sits on the podium portion of the newly-unveiled bronze statue of President Donald Trump on Saturday afternoon at the Elks Theater in Rapid City
The statue will be temporarily <a href="https://rapidcityjournal.com/life-entertainment/local/article_10877766-d9d7-4127-8e3b-9a0f384ce9de.html" target="_blank">displayed at the Rapid City Visitor Center</a> at 613 Main Street before being placed at 6th and St
2025 is the 25th anniversary of the City of Presidents
It's a privately funded nonpartisan art project and trail of history
Visit Rapid City said each statue costs around $100,000
He envisioned this as a way to get people out of their cars and walking the streets of Rapid City
and as a way to pay tribute to those that were willing to serve," Don Perdue said
Visit Rapid City recently took on promotion and management of the presidents
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley
Tim Goodwin pose with the newly-unveiled bronze statue of President Donald Trump on Saturday afternoon at the Elks Theater in Rapid City
we are proud to carry forward the legacy of this iconic trail
Taking over promotion and management of the City of Presidents is not just an honor
and making sure every visitor feels the spirit of this wonderful city we get to call home," said Visit Rapid City Visitor Service Manager Laurie Sutterer
all the past presidents through 45 are on display
President Joe Biden’s statue will be the next to join the City of Presidents
protesters stood outside at Main Street Square with signs condemning the president
The protest was organized by Indivisible Rapid City
Contact Shalom Baer Gee at <a href="mailto:sgee@rapidcityjournal.com">sgee@rapidcityjournal.com</a>
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A new president is coming to downtown Rapid City
South Dakota Army National Guard (SDARNG) Blackhawk helicopters
in coordination with SD Wildland Fire (SDWF)
The city could begin planting in parks and frontage areas the week before Memorial Day
The garages are located on the south end of the 761 E Anamosa Street apartment complex and north of Thomson Park
Portions of North Angostura Road may be intermittently closed due to smoke
but visitors may experience delays near&hellip;
Feeding South Dakota received $100,000 worth of all-beef hot dogs to help feed thousands of people in need across the state
Youth and Family Services' summer food program will serve free lunch to kids and adults beginning May 27
South Dakota Wildland Fire and other fire departments teamed up on training in the southern Hills
Protestors called on the Trump Administration to keep its "hands off" a number of programs and agencies
Rapid City implemented water conservation measures -- commonly referred to as watering restrictions – on May 1
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Mark Ellis throws a first pitch at Canyon Lake Little League's opening day to Rapid City mayor Jason Salamun 
on a sun-splashed Opening Day for Canyon Lake Little League
former big leaguer Mark Ellis spoke to a sea of parents and players before him
There was a buzz emanating from the announcement a ballpark was named in the Rapid City native's honor
Mark Ellis grips a baseball at Canyon Lake Little League's Opening Day Saturday
"I'm so glad it says Ellis Field and not Mark Ellis Field
my parents and what they've done for me in my career
it's a total team effort and they still live here in this community and for them to drive by and to see that is really special," Ellis said
the $40-plus million he earned and the trips to the postseason wouldn't be possible
And now the hope any of the 600 kids who'll play for Canyon Lake Little League this year will see that sign and follow in his footsteps
Mark Ellis high-fives a Canyon Lake Little Leaguer at Opening Day
That's what you want your grandkids to do," Robert Mudge
Mudge recalled the church softball league games where a 3-year-old Mark begged to attend his parents' games
Then came the endless games of racket ball at the fitness center Mark's mom
The rubber ball echoed like a clap of thunder each time it slapped against the wall
Canyon Lake Little League announced they'll name a field after former big leaguer and Rapid City native Mark Ellis
"And I think that's how I developed my hand eye coordination," said Ellis
renowned for his sure-handedness at second base
who attended Saturday in thick sunglasses and a plaid blue shirt
until the day he retired Les worked in the auto-industry and did everything
Les was there for all the extensive traveling required for Mark's games
Mark Ellis signs a baseball for a Canyon Lake Little League coach Saturday
would make the 600-plus mile round trip schlep to Cheyenne
even if it was for the last few innings of a doubleheader
There was never indication that they couldn't do anything
They always made the sacrifices to go ahead and do that for us," Mark said
Mark Ellis' dad Les poses for a photo at Canyon Lake Little League's Opening Day Saturday
But what makes Les proud is the impact of Mark's success
"Still feels like they own a piece of him," Les said of Rapid City
Mudge reflected on how the community rallied around Mark and Post 22 when he helped lead the team to the American Legion Baseball World Series championship title
And throughout his 13-year Major League Baseball career
highlighted by stints with the Oakland Athletics and Los Angeles Dodgers
Big Sister cause where "he donated a bunch of shirts and bats years ago
and we made big displays and then auctioned them off," Mudge said
Now Mark has settled down outside of Seattle with his wife and three children
such as the spaghetti and fried chicken his mom made
and childhood memories where a Wilson A2000 with H-webbing cloaked his left hand
looked on proudly and talked about memories from decades ago like they happened last Tuesday
The Canyon Lake Little League Opening Day crowd welcomed him as a hometown hero
They applauded as he strutted to the mound and threw a ceremonial first pitch to Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun
Mark Ellis poses alongside a Canyon Lake Little Leaguer Saturday afternoon at Collins Field
the kids who flocked to him for photos and signed baseballs
Maybe they'll have that burst of hope Mark felt when he played at Collins Field
"I remember as a kid seeing Collins Field and being a young guy I didn't know who Dave Collins was," Ellis said of the fellow Rapid City native who played and coached in the big leagues
"It really sparked my interest to find out who Dave Collins was and getting to meet him as a major leaguer player was quite special."
Contact Matt at <a href="mailto:mweiner@rapidcityjournal.com">mweiner@rapidcityjournal.com</a>
either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter
or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources
Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content
A new statue of President <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/topic/donald-trump" data-sys="1" class="multivariate">Donald Trump</a> has been unveiled in South Dakota
the latest edition to the area's City of Presidents art project
"I knew it would be a controversial piece," the sculptor
"I had friends that told me it would ruin my career
I had other friends tell me that it'd be the greatest thing I'd ever done
I think the truth is probably somewhere in the middle of that."
The statue is the latest addition to the city's 25-year-old tourist project
aimed at offering an extra attraction for those visiting South Dakota by capturing the life-size likeness of every U.S
However, it is also the latest in a series of <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/meet-man-building-statues-trump-2032289" target="_blank" rel="noopener" class="multivariate">effigies of the current president</a>, many of which have been <a rel="noopener nofollow" href="https://archive.is/WX3pj" target="_blank" class="multivariate">commissioned by admirers</a> to pay tribute to Trump and his administration
The statue was unveiled before an audience at Elks Theater in downtown Rapid City on Saturday
which captures the president mid-speech and with his hand raised in a distinctive gesture
was commissioned following the end of his first term in 2021 and completed prior to his victory in the 2024 presidential election
It forms part of Rapid City's City of Presidents
a privately funded art project launched in 2000 and run by the city's tourism board
all presidents through number 45 are now on display in downtown Rapid City
Maher has completed several other sculptures for the project, including Abraham Lincoln, Gerald <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/topic/ford" data-sys="1" class="multivariate">Ford</a>, Woodrow Wilson, Herbert Hoover, Ronald Reagan, Grover Cleveland, Lyndon B. Johnson, <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/topic/george-w.-bush" data-sys="1" class="multivariate">George W. Bush</a>
Protestors gathered outside Elks Theater as the new statue was unveiled
other guests involved in the ceremony included Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun
South Dakota GOP Representative Dusty Johnson and Richard Purdue
the son of City of Presidents founder Don Purdue
told Newsweek: "The statue of President Trump is the newest addition to the City of Presidents
The addition of this statue supports the trail's mission of honoring each U.S
sharing the diverse legacies of our country's leadership along the way."
said: "I have no doubt that Trump will be one of the more consequential figures in American history
What those consequences are have yet to be determined."
Trump's statue will be displayed at the Rapid City Visitor Center for the duration of the Summer season
A representative of Visit Rapid City told Newsweek that it will then be placed outside to join the rest of the presidential statues in downtown Rapid City
A statue of former President <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/topic/joe-biden" data-sys="1" class="multivariate">Joe Biden</a> has already been commissioned
which Newsweek was told will also be made by Maher
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground
Newsweek is committed to journalism that is factual and fair
We value your input and encourage you to rate this article
Newsletters in your inbox <a href="/newsletter" title="See all newsletter">See all</a>
Longtime meteorologist and Rapid City-area foodie Eric Gardner has died
<a   href="https://www.kotatv.com/video/2025/04/29/eric-gardner-longtime-meteorologist-with-kota-territory-news-passes-away/" class="Link"  target="_blank" data-cms-ai="0"   >KOTA-TV</a>  said he’s been with organization since 2002 and was also well-known in the regional culinary and wine scenes
“Eric was an amazing co-worker and a beloved part of the community here in the Black Hills," a statement from KOTA news staff said
"Our thoughts go out to Eric’s family and friends
as he will by all of us here at KOTA Territory.”
Go to shorturl.at/qWGjp or email letters@rapidcityjournal.com to send us a Letter to the Editor
Give us your Two Cents' worth: email <a href="mailto:twocents@rapidcityjournal.com">twocents@rapidcityjournal.com</a>
letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly
- RC Stevens finished an immaculate weekend with another win Sunday afternoon over Tea
It was the Raiders' third win of the weekend over the Titans
Austin Flohr and Blake Olmsted combined for four hits and five RBI
the Cobblers hosted Douglas on senior night
After RC Central honored their lone senior Tyler Henstein
they jumped out to a 5-1 lead after one inning
the Post 320 Stars couldn't recover from giving up four runs in the first inning
The Outlaws took two of three from the Stars over the weekend
The decision to impose tariffs comes amid claims that Mexican growers are undercutting U.S
tomato producers in the competitive market
Guacamole has been spared from tariffs for now
While President Donald Trump put threatened tariffs on Mexican avocados on pause
government plans to put a nearly 21% duty on fresh Mexican tomatoes starting July 14
A duty — like a tariff — is a tax on imports
and this one would impact the 4 billion pounds of tomatoes the U.S
Tomatoes imported from Mexico are for sale in a supermarket in Miami as the United States imposed 25% tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico
starting a trade war with its closest neighbors and allies
Proponents say the import tax will help rebuild the shrinking U.S
tomato industry and ensure the produce eaten in the U.S
Mexico currently supplies around 70% of U.S
"Unless we even the playing field in terms of fair pricing
you're not going to have a domestic industry for fresh tomatoes in the very near future," Robert Guenther
the trade group's executive vice president
but most of California's crop is turned into sauces and other products
Opponents say the duty will make fresh tomatoes more expensive for U.S
a San Antonio-based company that grows tomatoes in Mexico as well as the U.S.
said it will be paying millions of dollars each month in duties if the decision isn't reversed
"We will look for ways to adapt or streamline our operations
we are always doing that so we run an efficient business already," said Skip Hulett
We're determining what portion of the cost we could absorb
but these added costs will most certainly need to be passed on to the consumer."
a professor at the Morrison School of Agribusiness at Arizona State University
retail prices for tomatoes to rise by around 10.5% if the duty goes through
Mexico's government said last month it was convinced it could negotiate over the issue
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has hinted her country may impose duties on chicken and pork legs imported from the U.S
The tug-of-war over tomatoes has a long history
shortly after the North American Free Trade Agreement went into effect
Department of Commerce investigated allegations that Mexico was exporting tomatoes to the U.S
government agreed to suspend the investigation if Mexico met certain rules
including selling its tomatoes at a minimum price
the agreement has been subject to periodic reviews
but the two sides always reached an agreement that avoided duties
the Commerce Department announced its withdrawal from the latest agreement
saying it had been "flooded with comments" from U.S
tomato growers who want better protection from Mexican imports
said even though Mexican exporters are required to charge a minimum price
industry because it costs 40% to 50% less to grow tomatoes there
labor is cheaper and inputs like seeds and fertilizer cost less
industry typically relies on immigrant workers through the H-2A visa program
That program required farmers to pay workers an average of $16.98 per hour last year
an amount that has jumped as labor has become harder to find
Richards estimates that workers on Mexican tomato farms earn about one-tenth that rate
NatureSweet acknowledges that it's more cost-effective to grow tomatoes in Mexico
but says climate is one of the biggest reasons
The company's Mexican greenhouses don't need lighting
heating or cooling systems because of the year-round weather conditions
but you can't relocate climate agriculture," Hulett said
the president of the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas
which represents importers of Mexican tomatoes
said Florida doesn't produce the vine-ripened tomatoes that U.S
Florida tomatoes are picked when they're green and shipped to warehouses to ripen
"Florida doesn't grow the kinds of specialty tomatoes that have taken off
but they want to get protection," Jungmeyer said
"Their market share is dropping for reasons of their own choice."
"If you put a Florida tomato up against a Mexican tomato
I think it would do very well in taste test," he said
an upscale Mexican restaurant in Fort Worth
He compares it to fine wine; if he wants a good cabernet sauvignon
If he wants a good tomato that reminds him of his childhood
"We know the flavors they are going to bring to the salsas and moles
We don't want to compromise flavors," Burciaga said
Burciaga said his restaurant uses 300 to 400 pounds of Roma tomatoes from Mexico every week
He currently pays $19 for a 25-pound crate of tomatoes
He doesn't relish paying the additional cost
Burciaga said the tomato duty — and the threat of Trump implementing the paused 25% tariff on many other products from Mexico — are making it difficult to run his business
A small or medium restaurant budgets things out
We know in advance that in six months things will increase
"But we don't know these things in advance
AP Reporter Maria Verza in Mexico City contributed
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— Multiple local and state public safety agencies responded to a report of a suspicious package at Sam's Club in Rapid City on Tuesday afternoon
Rapid City Police Department received a report of a "suspicious package" in the parking lot of Sam's Club around 12:30 p.m
RCPD and RCFD quickly set up a perimeter around the object
Rapid Police Department Patrol Captain Andy Becker emphasized the agency's dedication to public safety before the object was safely recovered
keeping everybody back for right now until we can identify what it is and properly dispose of it
Obviously ,we're not going to go near it until we know what it is
We try to interrupt business as little as possible
until we're able to figure out what this is."
The object was successfully x-rayed and deemed not to be a threat by the SD DCI Bomb Squad
While the DCI did not indicate what the suspicious item was
 they stated that it is being retained and will be investigated further
RCPD stated that they appreciated how the public cooperated with law enforcement to resolve this situation safely
"Safety will always be our number-one priority and we appreciate everyone's patience as first responders worked through the incident."
Rapid City Police Department responded to the scene along with Rapid City Fire Department
the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigations
Pete Kelsey and his team 3D-mapped all of Alcatraz Island
gaining access to areas previously off limits
the team unveiled details around the famous 1962 prison escape and created new models that could help str&hellip;
NEW YORK — President Donald Trump says he is directing the government to reopen and expand Alcatraz
the notorious former prison on a California island
President Donald Trump boards Air Force One at Palm Beach International Airport on Sunday in West Palm Beach
In a message on his Truth Social site Sunday evening
who will never contribute anything other than Misery and Suffering
we did not hesitate to lock up the most dangerous criminals
and keep them far away from anyone they could harm
to reopen a substantially enlarged and rebuilt ALCATRAZ
to house America’s most ruthless and violent Offenders," he wrote
adding: "The reopening of ALCATRAZ will serve as a symbol of Law
no one knows the fate of Frank Morris and brothers John and Clarence Anglin to this day
although authorities believe they likely died in the treacherous waters of the San Francisco Bay
and Alcatraz Island is currently operated as a tourist site
The order comes as Trump has been clashing with the courts as he tries to send accused gang members to a notorious prison in El Salvador
Trump has also talked about wanting to send American citizens there and to other foreign prisons
President Donald Trump has made moves to expand the United States' already gargantuan carceral system
from mass deportation to harsher punishments for some crimes
are reliant on the federal government having access to more prison and jail cells
to enact his promises on immigration and crime and punishment
This lack of space is one of the major barriers to ramping up deportations, and ICE is limited by its budget. But Trump is now considering tapping into defense funds. Those funds "would allow civilian-run companies to quickly and rapidly expand temporary detention facilities," such as tents, <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/trump-admin-considering-using-defense-funding-deportations-rcna191879">according to NBC News</a>
putting their safety—and that of employees—at risk
Yet another sign of a private prison infrastructure expansion is a report that the Trump administration is preparing to restart family immigrant detention, including incarcerating families with young children, and is expected to ask companies to bid for contracts, <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/trump-administration-preparing-restart-immigrant-family-detention-rcna191230">according to NBC News</a>
he told sheriffs: "We need your bed space."
Homan promised to make it easier for local jails to incarcerate people for ICE by lowering detention standards and limiting the number of federal inspections
He said he hoped to eliminate federal rules and instead defer to state-level standards
it's good enough for an illegal immigrant detained for us," Homan said
Other state politicians have resisted cooperation with ICE. A law in Illinois prohibits local sheriffs from renting jail space for immigrant detention. Trump is now <a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.ilnd.473062/gov.uscourts.ilnd.473062.1.0.pdf">suing the state over the law</a>
The president's search for more prison and jail cells for imprisoning both citizens and undocumented immigrants extends beyond U.S
legal to deport a non-citizen to a third country
the administration's effort to send three Venezuelan men to Guantánamo
Many have speculated that Trump's sending people to Guantánamo, <a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/2025/02/08/trump-chicago-ice-arrest-immigration">like many of his immigration efforts</a>, is an attempt to <a href="https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2025/02/guantanamo-bay-trump-immigration-deportation-cuba-punitive-theater/">create a massive spectacle</a> intended to project power and instill fear
But despite the significant legal and practical barriers
the Trump administration's numerous efforts to find more jail and prison cells indicate a clear desire to build a larger carceral system
Trump has styled himself as a "law and order" president and is using that frame in his efforts at expanded incarceration
But despite his wide-ranging moves to increase prison and jail space
he has been selective in who should be imprisoned or punished for illegal behavior
<a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/2025/02/15/trump-ice-jail-prison-arizona">This story</a> was produced by <a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/">The Marshall Project</a>
nonprofit news organization that seeks to create and sustain a sense of national urgency about the U.S
Judges in several states may soon get a new tool to stop dangerous drivers from speeding again
Post 320 first baseman Colby Wit picks up the loose baseball before converting a groundout during a matinee contest between the Stars and the Outlaws Baseball Club (Miles City
Even though it was a relatively quiet weekend within the realm of American Legion baseball
the Post 320 Stars worked in a three-game series with the Outlaws Baseball Club of Miles City
With the trio of contests taking place on Saturday and Sunday at Pete Lien Memorial Field
Post 320 dropped the opening matchup 13-3 before fighting back to take a five-inning 16-6 victory in the second game Saturday
the Stars fell behind early but mounted a rally
Post 320 couldn't quite close the gap in an 11-7 loss
Post 320 will have another three-game stretch ahead of them this week
the Stars will challenge the Post 22 Hardhats for a single contest
after sweeping Cheyenne Post 6 on April 26 and April 27 in Cheyenne
the Stars will head over to the Cowboy State for a twinbill with the Sheridan Troopers
Post 320's Max Schoenhard slides into home during the bottom of the second inning within a matinee matchup between the Stars and the Outlaws Baseball Club of Miles City
The first game of the series between the Stars and Outlaws was a bit lopsided
The Outlaws built up an 11-0 lead by the bottom of the third inning
tacking on two runs in the second and adding one run in the top of the frame
thanks to a fly ball and a reach on an error to place Jhett Peterson on second base
Max Speed delivered a hard shot into left field
Speed was able to turn on the jets to reach third
and plated Peterson to put the Stars on the board
Ian Feeger brought home Speed on the next at-bat
before Miles City put up two insurance runs to acquire a 11-2 advantage
Post 320 was able to put Peterson on third and Speed on first base
the Outlaws forced a line out and sealed their victory
Post 320 starting pitcher Anders Lockhart fires a pitch toward home plate during a matinee matchup between the Stars and the Outlaws Baseball Club (Miles City
The nightcap saw the Stars resume their offensive capabilities
after trailing 1-0 in the bottom of the first
Jonah Blake got things started with a double
Ayden Byrd connected for a line drive into left field
Colby Wit doubles into left to score Peterson to tack on another run
Kostenbauer singled into left to bring in Wit
the Stars picked up more runs in the bottom of the second
The run started with a double from Sayles and a walk for Byrd
which also allowed Mehlhaff to advance to third
Despite Max Schoenhard grounding out to short
Mehlhaff was able to score with Wit settling on third base
culminating in a RBI single from Blake and another from Sayles
the Stars built up a comfortable 11-1 lead
Miles City countered with three runs in the top of the frame
With Peterson on second following a walk and a steal
Laadon Faatz singled into left to bring home his teammate
but allowed Schoenhard to score from third
with the Stars maintaining a healthy 14-4 lead
as Faatz's reach on an error allowed Blake to score from second in the bottom of the fourth
The Stars then achieved the victory one frame later
alongside Blake's two-of-three with two RBIs
Schoenhard and Wald each collected one RBI
Peterson and Schoenhard each reeled in two stolen bases
Faatz tallied three strikeouts and Beck Leighty fanned another three Outlaws
The Stars also forced four errors on Miles City
The rubber match played more like the first encounter between the two clubs
The Outlaws created a 5-0 lead midway through the second inning
the Stars began to chip away by scoring one run over the next three innings
The Stars got on the board with a sac fly from Wald in the bottom of the second
Despite Miles City tacking on two more runs
Post 320 scored after Faatz stole home with two outs
Wald grounded out but brought home Schoenhard once more
the Outlaws began to pull away by recording three runs in the top of the sixth and putting up an insurance run in the top of the seventh
Anders Lockhart singled right up the middle to bring home Leighty and Faatz
Schoenhard singled with the grounder up the middle
giving the Stars an opportunity to cut the Outlaws' lead further
which ended the comeback attempt and the game
as Faatz picked up a double and a stolen base
Peterson also stolen one base for the home team
Sayles and Mehlhaff each struck out two Outlaws
Contact Sports Editor Tyler Anderson at <a href="mailto:tanderson@rapidcityjournal.com">tanderson@rapidcityjournal.com</a>
The Nebraska Legislature's 2025 legislative session is called to order at the Nebraska State Capitol on Wednesday
As May unfolds and the legislative session enters its final weeks
critical debates on the state budget and tax policy are taking center stage at the Capitol
Senators are tackling priority bills with increasing intensity
aimed at simplifying Nebraska's inheritance tax with a lower
and fund allocations to offset potential county revenue losses
The goal is to modernize a tax seen as a burden on families while ensuring local services remain funded
Nebraska is only 1 of 5 states with an inheritance tax and I am pleased to see the work that Senator Clements has put into finding a way to phase out this burdensome tax and still insure counties maintain a revenue source to prevent any need for additional property tax increases
introduced by Senator Kauth and prioritized by Senator Storm
often dangerous and currently available over the counter without age limits
The bill does NOT ban the production and sale of hemp used for fibers and textiles
or consumable hemp in its natural form under 0.3% THC
An added Judiciary Committee amendment includes a 10% excise tax on CBD sales starting in 2026
with revenue going to the Property Tax Credit Cash Fund
a cloture motion was invoked to end debate
and the bill advanced to Select File with a 33-13 vote
We must prioritize public safety over potential tax income from synthetic and loosely labeled substances
focusing on age verification and parental consent for minors' social media accounts
removing an exemption related to gaming and educational entertainment
LB383 is designed to combat the rise in mental health challenges
The legislation aims to enhance parental oversight and enforce age controls
protecting children's mental health and safety without being content-based or overly broad
It mirrors laws enacted and upheld in other states like Tennessee
limiting free speech or erosion of privacy
It is about empowering parents with the tools necessary to monitor and supervise their minor children in a meaningful way in the digital world
It's time to take the predatory control of our kids away from big Tech and give it back to parents and guardians
Your perspectives guide our work at the Capitol
Sen. Tanya Storer represents District 43, which includes all or parts of Dawes, Sheridan, Cherry, Keya Paha, Boyd, Brown, Rock, Blaine, Loop, Garfield and Custer counties. Contact her at <a href="mailto:tstorer@leg.ne.gov">tstorer@leg.ne.gov</a> or 402-471-2628
Chadron freshman Addisyn Gruver (in middle of pack) won the 100-meter dash in this race to win the event at the Western Conference Meet and also reset the Chadron High record at 12.36 seconds
She also won the 200 dash and the long jump
Sophomore Sophie Watson had a great day for the Cardinals at the Western Conference Meet
She tied for first in the long jump and was third in both of the hurdles
Chadron's Addisyn Gruver finishes the 4x100 relay at the Chadron Twilight Track and Field Meet
Led by freshman Addisyn Gruver’s three first-place finishes — one of them a 50-year-old school record that she broke — the Chadron High School girls tallied more than 100 points and placed third at the Western Conference Track and Field Meet in Sidney on Friday
Coach Blakelee Hoffman said Gruver obviously had another outstanding meet and so did many of her teammates
“We put some of them in different events than their usual
The Western Conference Meet is a big one for us
and we were able to score a lot of points again.”
The Lady Cardinals finished with 103 points
It’s their second highest total in the last decade
exceeded only by the 146 points that were posted by the 2019 team that was Chadron’s first — girls or boys — to win a Western Conference track and field championship
The Chadron girls have now scored at least 91 points in six of the last seven conference showdowns
Gruver won the 100- and 200-meter dashes in 12.36 and 26.70 seconds and the long jump by going 17-3 ¼
besides anchoring the second-place 4x400 relay
breaking the 12.40 converted mark that Karen Briscoe set when she ran 100 yards in 11.3 seconds in 1975
That was the Cardinals’ oldest record aside from the boys’ records in the 200 and 400 meters that Rob Wahlstrom set in the late 1960s
Gruver’s 200 time at the conference meet is one-hundredth shy of her best
It was the fifth meet in a row that she had long jumped more than 17 feet
Her leap of 17-11 ¾ that won the Best of the West the previous Tuesday is her career-best
Sidney won both of this year’s team titles again
It was the ninth time in the last 11 years that the boys won that title and the fourth crown in the last five years for the girls
nine more than last year’s winning total and 30.5 more than second place Scottsbluff managed this year
The Lady Raiders scored 134 points last week
down a long way from the 182 that last year’s extra-strong crew rang up
which nipped the Cardinals by four points for second place
sophomore Sophie Watson also had a special day for the Cards
She tied with Scottsbluff’s Addison Bowlin for first in the high jump at 5-foot-1 and was third in both the high and low hurdles
The Lady Cards also had a pair of runners-up—Beau Behrends in the 800 and Olivia Lyon in the discus with a career-best heave of 114-8
placing three times in both the shot put and the discus to earn 20 points for the team
Raylie Pourier was fourth and Hannah Sprock sixth
Jaelyn Brown fifth and Vrasai Sayaloune sixth in the shot
After all the heavy lifting and throwing was done
Sayaloune and Lyon joined forces and won the throwers 4x100 relay
those 10 points didn’t count in the team scoresheet
Other placewinners for the Chadron girls were Brooklynn Hoffman in the 100 hurdles and Bryann Buskirk in the 3200
Cali Hendrickson and Cella Landen joined Gruver on the second place 4x400 relay
Buskirk and Gracie Calkins finished third in the 4x800 relay
Katie Dowse of Sidney and Rylee Luce of Gering were double winners
taking first in the 400 and 800 races and the hurdles
Sidney junior Lance Holly was a triple winner among the boys
crossing the finish line first in all three of the sprints
He also anchored the winning 4x100 relay team whose time of 41.91 broke the record of 43.43 that had been set by Chadron’s Quinn Bailey
Malachi Swallow and Xander Province in 2023
Alliance had set the record of 43.5 seconds that the Cardinals broke
Axton Stone won both of the distance events for the second year in a row and Creighton Beals slammed the hurdles after also winning the intermediates and placing second in the highs a year ago
Sophomore Cole Carnahan led the Chadron boys by taking third in the 800
The Cardinals other points were earned by Quinn Bailey in the shotput
Rider Henrick in the 3200 and the 4x100 relay team
The Cardinals and many other teams will enter the Bayard B-C-D Meet this Friday
event winners and Chadron placings follow:
Nebraska high school track and field champions since 2015 
The Chadron Area Special Olympics team performed well on April 19
2025 for the West Region swim and track meet
Swimmers from Chadron: Back row: Orlando Camargo-Luz
Unified Partner Julia Nicholson and Russell Moore Front row: Unified Partner Brystian Cummings and mascot Cassidy Cummings
The results for the Chadron athletes are as follows:
Orlando Camargo-Luz – 50 m free style— 1st place 
Bastian Barnes – 50 m free style – 2nd place
and Bristyn Cummings – Unified 4x25 m free style relay – 1st place
Russell Moore – 15m unassisted swim – 1st place
Ben Fistler – 15 m assisted swim – 1st place
and Scottsbluff as well as unified partners and volunteers
Paul Kruger – 1st Softball throw and 2nd 100 m run
Robbie Straw – 2nd Softball throw and 2nd 100 m run
Michael Broberg – 1st Softball throw and 1st 200 walk
Orlando Camargo-Luz – 1st Shot Put and 2nd place in 100 m run
Jesse Demicell – 2nd Shot Put and 1st 100 m run
Ben Fistler – 2nd Javelin and 1st place in 100 m run
Bastian Barnes – 1st Javelin and 2nd place 100 m run
and Jesse Demicell – 1st place 4x100 m Relay
and Ethan Calle – 1st place in 4x100 m Unified Relay
Special Recognition was given to the Social Work and Psychology Club volunteers
Accepting the plaque for CSC is Samantha Hill and Adrianna Calle for the volunteers and presenting it is West Area Special Olympics Director Melissa Nicholson
We would like to thank the City of Chadron for the use of the Aquatic Center
Chadron State College for the use of the PAC
Trooper Juan Garfio for handing out awards at both the swim and track meets
the teams that competed and the families and coaches that cheered all the athletes that day
There was a special recognition plaque was given to the The Social Club for Chadron State College for volunteering
"They start to really worry about their grades..
So we do see a lot of stress here and some anxiety,” says Rani Mitchell
Lead Counselor for Middle and High Schools in the RCAS district
To help students manage with stress that comes with testing
which Mitchell says she sees teenagers not getting
but eating properly and drinking enough water are also key for test scores
It can make things a lot easier if they plan ahead of time,” she says
Parents can help out as well by being a supportive role
Whether that’s helping set study goals or simply offering encouragement at home
Mitchell says that is important for parents to get involved
finals bring another kind of stress: saying goodbye
That transition can be a little bit stressful and scary," Mitchell says
it helps students prepare for the future beyond high school
"Preparation and self-care are the two main items that I would focus on," Mitchell added
so you can focus on being present and enjoying those last few days."
The Rush of Sound: A Concert Guide for Rapid City Rush Fans
offers more than just scenic beauty and outdoor adventures
It is also home to an emerging concert scene that brings some of the world’s top musical acts to the region
Fans of the Rapid City Rush can enjoy not only thrilling hockey games but also a vibrant mix of live music performances
this guide highlights the hottest touring performers and the top venues in and around Rapid City where you can experience them live
we’ve included an exclusive discount just for Rush fans to help you get closer to the music you love
Katy Perry burst onto the pop scene in 2008 with "I Kissed a Girl" and has since become known for hits like "Firework" and "Teenage Dream." Her "Prismatic World Tour" and "Witness Tour" brought dazzling visuals and upbeat anthems to fans worldwide
She’s a multiple Billboard award winner and has been nominated for 13 Grammys
Metallica has been a cornerstone of heavy metal with legendary albums like "Master of Puppets" and "The Black Album." Their "M72 World Tour" continues their legacy of sold-out stadiums and ferocious performances
With nine Grammy Awards and millions of albums sold
Lainey Wilson has quickly risen in the country music world with hits like "Things a Man Oughta Know." Her "Country With a Flare Tour" showcases her storytelling talent and Southern roots
She's a CMA Female Vocalist of the Year and a Grand Ole Opry member
Wu-Tang Clan revolutionized hip-hop in 1993 with "Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)." Known for their raw lyrics and powerful beats
They've won BET Hip Hop Awards and remain a cultural phenomenon
SZA’s breakout album "Ctrl" established her as a leading voice in alternative R&amp;B
with hits like "Love Galore." Her "SOS Tour" brings her introspective lyrics and unique sound to life
The Black Keys have been delivering blues-rock since 2001 with hits like "Lonely Boy" and "Tighten Up." Their "Dropout Boogie Tour" is a celebration of gritty guitar riffs and raw energy
their music remains authentic and powerful
Their shows are a throwback to rock's golden era
Shakira became a global superstar with "Whenever
Wherever" and continued her success with "Hips Don’t Lie." Her "El Dorado World Tour" was a vibrant showcase of Latin rhythms and pop energy
She’s won three Grammy Awards and 12 Latin Grammys
Shakira’s concerts are electrifying and full of cultural flair
is known for his witty lyrics and guitar mastery
His "Weekend Warrior Tour" combined humor with heartfelt moments
With three Grammy Awards and numerous CMA wins
and pop to create hits like "Rockstar" and "Circles." His "Twelve Carat Tour" highlights his emotional depth and genre-crossing style
He’s won American Music Awards and received Grammy nominations
has led the industry with hits like "Single Ladies" and "Halo." Her "Renaissance World Tour" redefined live music with stunning visuals and choreography
she is the most awarded artist in Grammy history
Her concerts are monumental displays of talent and empowerment
known for his soulful hit "Take Me to Church," blends blues
His "Unreal Unearth Tour" showcases his haunting voice and deep musicality
has reshaped hip-hop with albums like "To Pimp a Butterfly." His "Big Steppers Tour" is both visually stunning and thought-provoking
Kendrick’s concerts are powerful reflections on society and identity
are known for anthems like "Pour Some Sugar on Me." Their recent tours with Mötley Crüé continue to draw huge crowds
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019
has captivated fans with songs like "How You Like That." Their "Born Pink World Tour" showcased their flawless choreography and style
They’ve won Billboard and MTV awards and set records worldwide
Tate McRae gained fame with her emotional hit "You Broke Me First" and combines singing with expressive dance
Her performances are personal and visually compelling
She’s been nominated for MTV and Billboard awards
McRae’s concerts are a blend of vulnerability and artistry
It’s hosted acts like Def Leppard and Brad Paisley
This venue opened in 2011 and offers an intimate setting for up to 2,500 guests
Artists like Hozier and Post Malone have performed here
it has been a central hub for concerts since 1977
Acts like Metallica and Shakira have played here
this historic outdoor arena seats over 19,000 and hosts major tours during the summer
Country stars like Lainey Wilson and Brad Paisley frequently perform here
Exclusive TicketSmarter Offer for Rapid City Rush Fans
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The Rapid City Sevens baseball team beat Tea Area 13-3 in six innings on Sunday
The Post 320 baseball team took on the Outlaws Baseball Club of Montana on Sunday
May 4 at Pete Lien Memorial Field in Rapid City
- The roots of Mark Ellis' twelve year MLB career can be found on the Little League fields of Rapid City
That's why it was so appropriate that Canyon Lake Little League named a field after him
The Rapid City native was honored as part of the opening ceremonies for the league on Saturday
The former big leaguer also threw out the first pitch to his former Pony League opponent
Ellis primarily played for the Oakland Athletics
The second baseman racked up 1,343 hits and 105 home runs in his MLB career
but says some of his fondest memories are learning the game as a kid in Rapid City
which is what makes this honor so meaningful
it's really special to have that field named after me," Ellis says
the Little League level through Coach Ploof and Legion baseball
I'm so fortunate to have the people that I had around me and taught me the game of baseball
just being here for us and showing up really
Tony Pritzkau with South Dakota Wildland Fire discusses training conducted on Friday
The move is due to current water levels and inflows at Pactola Reservoir
Rapid City elevated the storage condition status for Pactola Reservoir from "normal status" to "concern status." 
Watering restrictions will continue through the end of August
Odd-numbered addresses are allowed to water on odd-numbered calendar days
Even-numbered addresses are allowed to water on even-numbered calendar days
No outside watering is allowed on the 31st day of any month
Manual watering with a handheld hose or with a bucket
sprinkling can or other similar container is allowed
the City of Rapid City has instituted mandatory water conservation measures
31 each year under normal status conditions
alert and critical stages and are determined by the water levels and inflows to Pactola Reservoir
The "concern status" designation means whenever Pactola Reservoir contains less than 48,950 acre feet of water or the inflow to Pactola Reservoir is less than 90% of the mean monthly average
conservation measures will be implemented earlier and continue through Sept
City water officials indicate the new status designation will be reassessed in late August to determine if water conservation measures will continue through the end of September
water conservation measures shall apply throughout the entire year and under "critical access" designation
The status designations are determined by water levels and inflows at Pactola Reservoir
"We are adjusting the status designation due to the water levels and inflows at Pactola Reservoir,” Rapid City Water Superintendent Eric Boyda said
“Water conservation measures will go into effect Thursday and continue throughout the summer under current conditions
the entire region has been experiencing less-than-average precipitation
and our winter and spring haven’t provided enough precipitation to alleviate drought in the area.”
“We appreciate the public’s cooperation with implementing water restrictions a month earlier than anticipated.”
For more information or questions about the City’s water restrictions
contact the Rapid City Water Office at 394-4162
South Dakota court records show the man is wanted on at least two charges related to the incident
From Two Cents: "Just because you hate Trump doesn’t mean there should not be a statue
Modern urban farming in an 1890s building is the heart of Aqua and Acre Market
"I have no doubt that Trump will be one of the more consequential figures in American history," the artist said before unveiling the statue
Several young athletes from along Highway 20 were among the standouts at the Panhandle Conference’s Middle School Track and Field Meet at Morrill on Friday
Hay Springs 8th grader Arian Mata ran away with both the 800- and 1600-meter races and also won the long jump
His times were 2:13.70 in the 800 and 5:01,41 for the 1600
won both of the middle school sprints and was second to Mata in the long jump
won the girls’ shot put that included 18 contestants
two inches ahead of Ada Norman of Crawford
Cash Anders won the 200 hurdles and Leah Holmgren was the triple jump winner
Another double winner was 7th grader Gracie Holmgren from the Sioux County Schools at Harrison
She won both the 800 and 1600 by sizable margins
Building in Chadron and the Fremont Opera House have been awarded grants to help fund repairs to their brickwork
They were chosen for 2025 Nebraska State Historical Society’s Bricks and Mortar grants
which assist owners of buildings on the National Register of Historic Places with repairs to roofs or brickwork
Building in Chadron received a grant from the Nebraska State Historical Society to help cover the cost to repair brickwork
Grant are funded by a portion of the Historic Preservation Fund awarded annually to the Nebraska State Historical Society from the National Park Service
The Fremont Opera House has been awarded a grant to help fund brickwork repairs
owns the Love-Larson Opera House in Fremont
The Historic Preservation Office works to identify and preserve the state’s history using programs such as National Register
<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com">Nebraska Examiner</a> is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Nebraska Examiner maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Aaron Sanderford for questions: <a href="mailto:info@nebraskaexaminer.com">info@nebraskaexaminer.com</a>
the RCFD has decided to postpone the burn until 10am Monday
— Downtown Rapid City may get smoky Sunday afternoon as the Rapid City Fire Department (RCFD) conducts a planned prescribed burn at the Trinity Eco Prayer Park
The controlled burn is scheduled for 3 p.m
near the intersection with Fourth Street and has been a staple of the church for many years
RCFD has stressed that the public should expect to see and smell smoke in the area
they ask residents not to call 911 regarding the smoke unless they witness signs of an emergency outside the designated burn zone
Fire crews and equipment will be on-site monitoring the operation closely for safety
The RCFD has conducted several small burns across the city in recent months as part of its cadet training program
Both park and fire officials emphasize that such burns are essential tools for managing vegetation
reducing the risk of uncontrolled wildfires
"The plants in this area are adapted to fire
and they actually thrive in fire conditions," said Ben Steinker
"From the beginning of the park management plan
we decided that we wanted to incorporate fire if possible..
I contacted the Rapid City Fire Department
specifically designed with native plant species
incorporates fire into its management plan to simulate natural processes
Situated on a 0.6-acre lot purchased in 2005 by the Trinity Lutheran Church Endowment Foundation
the park aims to model sustainable practices
Its design includes features like low-impact stormwater management and native landscaping
guided by the principle of working with nature rather than against it
Steinker noted that he coordinates with the RCFD to schedule these beneficial burns every two to three years
The fire department expects Sunday's prescribed burn to be completed before the afternoon is over
– The start of May often signifies that the start of summer is inching closer
it means it’s time to open for the summer season
Saturday was the first day of the summer season for the Black Hills Farmer’s Market
Over 40 local vendors gathered in Market Park to offer fresh produce
mulch and fertilizer to get those summer gardens started
While the farmer’s market is open year round from 9am to 12pm every Saturday
their hours are extended to 8am to 1pm in the summer time
which is when most vendors decide to set up shop
"We're blessed with wonderful weather and we've been looking forward to this opening day for the longest,” said Angelique Mills
local producer and owner of Gramma’s Delicacies
but it gets busier as the summer goes by."
they will also be open Wednesday s from 8am to 1pm
where kids can head over to the information booth to get a $2 token to be used on any product at the farmers market
the Hemingford Bobcats ran away with both of the championships at the Panhandle Conference Track and Field Meet at Morrill on Friday
The Hemingford girls won just three events
The Hemingford boys won 12 of the 17 events and racked up 246 points
only 10 fewer than all the other six teams combined
the standout was Morrill junior Katelyn Walker
She won both the 100- and 200-meter dashes and the long and high jumps
2 ½ inches is a personal best and is the Panhandle Conference record
The former record of 17-1 ¾ was set by Crawford’s Kelsey Johnson in 2003
It’s the first conference record that has been set since Kalen Johnson of Crawford ran the 800 meters in 2:28.32 in 2017
Hemingford sophomore Austin Benda won both the 1600- and 3200-meter races at the Panhandle Conference Meet at Morrill last Friday
 It was the fifth time this spring that Benda has won both and he remains undefeated in both
The girls’ only other multiple winner was Cody-Kilgore freshman Aubryanna Schmit
hitting 35-11 ½ in the shotput and 122-2 in the discus
Schmit’s classmate Lillian Ravenscroft won the 1600 for the C-K Cowgirls
The girls’ other event winners included Hay Springs’ sophomore Reese Varvel
who won the 400 and was second to Walker in the 100 and 200
Other blue ribbon winners for the Lady Hawks were sophomore Alaina Raymer in the high hurdles and freshman Megan Anderson in the triple jump
Those three also joined with Emily Forney to win the 4x100 relay
The Hemingford girls’ only individual winner was senior Aurora Hinman in the 800
but the LadyCats also took the 4x400 and 4x800 relays
Senior Keslyn Vogel of Crawford was the 300 hurdles winner
The Hemingford boys’ array of first-place finishers included two of the meet’s three double winners
Senior Michael Helmick won both of the throws by large margins
shoving the shot 47-11 ½ and sailing the discus a career-best 147-10
The Bobcats’ other double-dipper was sophomore Austin Benda
who swept the 1600 and 3200 distance events
It was the fifth time this spring that Benda has won both of the distance races
brothers Jayce and Tayten Haas were first and second while nipping each other in two of the sprints
Jayce won the 100 in 11.90 seconds while Tayten was just two hundredths behind; but Tayten won the 400 in 53.81 and Jayce was second in 54.21
the Bobcats boys’ other individual winners were Gavin Bell
The Cats also used their depth to win the 4x400 and 4x1600 relays
Sophomore Beau Rice of Hyannis was the meet’ other double winner
coming in first in the 300 hurdles and triple jump
Hay Springs senior Dylan Raymer won the 110 hurdles
The team scores and complete results follow:
- RC Stevens jumped out to a 10-0 lead after two innings
Ethan Wilson drove in four for the Raiders and Mason Brooks allowed just one unearned run in four innings of work
The win over the Titans was just the first of three games for the Raiders Saturday
They went on to take a doubleheader against Spearfish
The move is the latest part of President Donald Trump’s effort to crack down on illegal immigration
President Donald Trump's administration said Monday it will pay $1,000 to immigrants who are in the United States illegally and return to their home country voluntarily
S.D.—  National recognition for Monument Health's Rapid City Hospital for its commitment to patient safety
It received an "A" safety grade from The Leapfrog Group
The group also looks at the safety systems hospitals have and assigns an "A through F" grade based on their performance
Monument Rapid City is the only facility in the state to score an "A"
Monument Health Vice President of Quality Safety &amp; Risk Management Jill Tice says
"We were notified that for this release of the hospital safety grade
we are the only hospital in South Dakota that received that a rating
So we're very proud of the work that our caregivers and physicians did to take us to that level."
Due to patient volume Monument's Spearfish hospital did not qualify for Leapfrog's rating
The program is peer reviewed and updated bi-annually each fall and spring
— Rapid City yard waste collection sites at Fitzgerald Stadium and West Boulevard North on Nickel Street will open to the public Monday
Curbside collection also begins Monday for residents using the city collection services
with the landfill being on the east side of town
that this is a couple of sites conveniently located for people that don't want to go all the way out to the landfill
that they don't have to go as far for the yard waste sites
we pretty much open those up the first week of May
They'll continue through till about the end of November
timeframe,” said Rapid City Communications Coordinator Darrell Shoemaker
Officials ask that residents do not leave non-yard waste items at the yard waste collection sites and
wait until they are emptied to leave yard waste
For complete information about Rapid City’s yard waste collection services
City Solid Waste Division officials provide the following information regarding services that will be available at the sites
REMOTE DISPOSAL SITES: Remote yard waste containers will be available for disposing of yard waste at the Fitzgerald Stadium and West Boulevard North sites
The remote sites will also contain plastic and cardboard recycling containers
The dumping of trash or other items is prohibited at both sites
plastic and cardboard items must be placed inside the containers at the remote sites
These sites are to be used for residential purposes only
CURBSIDE SERVICE: Yard waste must be properly placed in the recyclable brown paper sacks and placed curbside on the day of curbside collection
Branches and sticks need to be bundled and tied up for collection
The bundles need to be under 25 pounds and under four feet in length
Large branches and tree limbs must be taken to the Fitzgerald Stadium or Landfill sites
CARDBOARD: The remote sites provide containers for disposal of recyclable materials and clean cardboard items
The large blue containers are for recyclable items and the brown containers are for clean
corrugated cardboard items such as the brown boxes
Do not place shiny cardboard boxes in the recyclable or cardboard containers
Shiny cardboard has pictures on it like diaper boxes
These are coated with a layer of plastic and should be placed in the trash
POLLINATORS: Gardeners are advised to remove winter protection
when temperatures are consistent above freezing or when plants begin to sprout
Many experts advise waiting for temperatures to be consistently above 50 degrees before cutting back perennials
removing cover and disrupting soils due to hibernating insects
RAPID CITY LANDFILL: The transfer site located at the entrance of the Landfill is open 24/7
The site provides containers for yard waste
cardboard and mixed recycling items year-round
The dumping of trash or other items is prohibited
COMPOST FOR GRASS: The Rapid City Solid Waste Division offers compost for your spring lawn needs
The compost is comprised of city yard waste and little is done with the materials except adding water during the grinding process
With the amount of chemicals in the incoming waste
Solid Waste officials advise using the compost material only on grass
The material is available for a penny a pound and can be picked up Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m
contact the City’s Solid Waste Division at 605-355-3496
more people are looking for ways to grow their own food
One new downtown business is helping Rapid City residents do just that
aiming to bring agriculture education and sustainability to the heart of the city
“Aqua and Acre was kind of born out of my passion for sustainability and sustainable farming,” said Kelsey Murray
“I’ve been doing aquaponics—a growing method that uses fish to nourish plants—for about eight years
It just grew to a point where we had to bring it to the people."
Murray is a former Environmental Engineering professor who is passionate about aquaponics
which uses nutrient-rich water from fish tanks to help plants thrive—no soil required
Murray says the approach could help address vulnerabilities in the local food system
“The mayor told me Rapid City only has about 72 hours of emergency food supply,” Murray said
That highlights the need for more accessible
Aqua and Acre plans to host a wide range of hands-on classes
“Some will be simple—like sip-and-plant classes with a glass of wine,” Murray said
“Others will be more formal courses in environmental engineering and controlled-environment agriculture.” 
the upstairs farm is still under construction
“We’ll have a working aquaponics system upstairs where people can see how to grow their own produce and fish,” Murray said
“Eventually we want to grow into a greenhouse and expand what we offer.” 
Aqua and Acre also stocks their shelves with sustainable goods from local
The sun sets on Badlands National Park in December 2024
"Home," on May 17 will be a tribute to the beauty of the Badlands and Black Hills
Rapid City’s dance schools will showcase their students’ diverse talents at recitals throughout the month of May
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was a fifth-generation Hermosa resident descended from homesteaders in the region
He left a lasting legacy in the southern Hills a&hellip;
Hyatt Place Rapid City Downtown officially opened on April 23
ready to welcome guests and locals for events
Thriving Communities is an annual initiative that allows Black Hills residents to guide more than $100,000 in grant funds to nonprofit organiz&hellip;
released as part of Leapfrog’s Spring 2025 report
places Rapid City's hospital among the top 30% of hospitals nationwide to earn the highest safety rating
patient-centered care while seeking continuous improvement and setting higher standards for health care excellence within our community,” said Jill Tice
Safety and Risk Management for Monument Health
The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is the only national rating focused exclusively on patient safety
Grades are assigned twice a year using more than 30 national performance metrics
“Achieving an ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade reflects enormous dedication to patient safety,” said Leah Binder
“I extend my congratulations to Monument Health Rapid City Hospital
staff and volunteers for creating a culture where patients come first.”
Monument has earned both "C" and "B" grades
The "A" continues the hospital's grading upswing
“Achieving the gold standard of patient safety for a United States health system doesn’t happen overnight,” he said
“I am very proud to work with an organization that truly puts patient safety at the center of what we do.”
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem speaks during a cabinet meeting at the White House
(AP) — Dakota State University hasn't experienced the student protests taking place at other U.S
most of the nearly 4,000 students have been focused on their studies or job hunts
The university administration decided to award an honorary doctorate to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and invited her to give a commencement speech May 10
students have planned a rally on graduation day opposing the former South Dakota governor and the Trump administration and expect protestors from across southeast South Dakota to join them
They want to speak out against the federal government’s immigration policies
which are being implemented with Noem's oversight
on behalf of peers who fear for their legal status
They also are expected to protest Noem's anti-LGBT actions during her time as governor
Some students and faculty also said they thought the honorary degree was too high an honor to bestow upon her
many are unsure if they should join the objections or stay quiet to avoid the kind of punishments suffered by students at more outspoken colleges
“The atmosphere is tense,” humanities instructor Daniel Spencer said
“Students are afraid of making their voices heard.”
Students studying in its renowned cybersecurity program have traditionally been hesitant to take political stances because they fear potential blowback when they later seek government and private sector jobs
a small town about an hour’s drive northwest of Sioux Falls
“Many of our students are from rural South Dakota
and there's a bit of an unwillingness to confront authority,” Professor Emeritus Dale Droge said
“We don't have very many students in the political sciences or history where they might be thinking about these more civil rights kind of actions.”
Hundreds of international students who attend DSU and haven't yet been affected by recent DHS actions are weighing their participation options. The agency had terminated the legal status of <a href="https://apnews.com/article/f1-visa-international-college-student-trump-9d4d900d328a0c205503c1178e70f1d5">more than 1,000 international students</a> before reversing course and outlining a new policy for those terminations
“I have international students coming to me from outside of the senate
who expressed to me that they don’t want to get involved in any of this because they have fears of getting their visas revoked,” said Anden Wieseler
a DSU junior and student senate vice president
DSU selected Noem because she was an “unwavering champion of Dakota State” during her time as governor
university spokesperson Andrew Sogn said in a written statement to The Associated Press
Noem supported the university's cybersecurity initiatives and helped secure millions of dollars in funding
cementing the school's standing as a national cybersecurity leader
“She was asked to share remarks with DSU’s graduates based on her distinguished and ground-breaking career in public service
and her many efforts to support the citizens of the state of South Dakota and the nation,” Sogn said
Noem's office did not respond to a request for comment
DSU President José-Marie Griffiths nominated Noem to receive an honorary doctorate
though the university declined to provide details of the offer
The general faculty and student senate voted against the nomination
with only one of the 15 student senators voting in favor of the nomination
“There is a fear among a lot of the international student body on speaking on this matter
just a result of the current political climate,” said Tyler Sprik
“That's part of the reason me and several other senators have become so involved — it's because a lot of our colleagues can't."
Faculty members also are apprehensive to share their opinions publicly. Some said the administration discouraged them from speaking to media and joining student rallies. Some cited <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump's</a> heightened scrutiny on higher education as reason for caution
Other students said they feared reprisal from the administration and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because they didn’t want to jeopardize their jobs
While faculty members are welcome to speak with the media
DSU faculty are afforded fewer protections than in other states due to a 2020 state law outlawing faculty unions at public colleges
Droge is troubled by the reluctance to speak out
“It is very concerning to me that we’ve reached a point in not just Dakota State
but in so many institutions that people are afraid to speak freely even on issues like this of free speech and principles and ethics,” Droge said
“These things aren’t against the university in any way but it’s about allowing people to speak their minds freely.”
Some faculty members also said having a high-profile figure at commencement may take attention away from the graduates
“The biggest chatter I've heard from students and other faculty is first and foremost concern that there will be a disruption to the commencement
which we all feel is so important to the students that are there,” said Stephen Krebsbach
Give commencement back to the graduates and listen to us,” Sprik said
rewritten or redistributed without permission
A proposed carbon-capture pipeline that would traverse through several Midwestern states could face more hurdles in Iowa as a dozen Republican&hellip;
The company behind a massive proposed carbon pipeline in the Midwestern U.S
filed hundreds of lawsuits against landowners in recent years
A judge has ruled that the state of New Mexico must commission a remedial plan for K-12 education because the system hasn't adequately helped &hellip;
there will be one more president in downtown Rapid City
Visit Rapid City has announced it will unveil a bronze statue of President Donald Trump on May 3
its newest addition to the City of Presidents
a collection of life-size statues of every past president placed along the city's downtown sidewalks
“We look forward to introducing the latest installment of this art project to the public.”
Trump's statue was commissioned after his first term ended in 2021
and it was finished before Trump was elected to a second term
Formanek told <a href=https://www.kotatv.com/2025/04/24/donald-trump-statue-be-added-city-presidents-may/>KOTA-TV</a> that Visit Rapid City will try to keep the focus on history and art – not politics
so we’re trying to stay away from the politics," she said
It was the <a href=https://www.visitrapidcity.com/blog/post/how-a-big-idea-created-a-monumental-experience/>idea of a local man</a>
who came up with it after watching people interact with a statue of President Abraham Lincoln temporarily placed outside a Rapid City hotel
The first four statues – George Washington
Trump's statue will be unveiled on May 3 at the Elks Theatre in downtown Rapid City
it's no secret that coffee is the drink of choice for many starting their day
From the importance of sourcing high quality green beans
We take an inside look into the coffee roasting process
Reneé Colón stands on a stepladder in the rented corner of a warehouse
pouring Brazilian coffee beans into her groaning old roasting machine
The beans are precious because they survived severe drought in a year when environmental conditions depressed coffee production globally
doubling the price of raw beans in just months
coffee is going to become more scarce," said Colón
founder and roaster at Fuego Coffee Roasters
"Seeing that dramatic loss of the Brazilian crop is a perfect example."
Losses from heat and drought have cut production forecasts in Brazil and Vietnam
Global production is still expected to increase
but not as much as commodity market investors had expected
largely because of continued high demand in Europe
Prices peaked in February but have remained high
forcing roasters like Colón to weigh how much of that cost to absorb and how much to pass on to consumers
The beans Colón was roasting cost her $5.50 per pound in early March
more than double what they cost in September
Specialty coffees — grown in delicate climates to slow growth and add flavor — can cost even more
President Donald Trump's current 10% tariffs cover most coffee-producing countries
and are expected to drive up costs for Americans
Amid his chaotic tariff pronouncements — at one point he threatened 46% tariffs on Vietnam imports and 32% on Indonesia imports before pausing them — American coffee roasters are rethinking their supply chains
"With all these changes in coffee maybe we should open our own damn farm," Colón muses
Coffee beans fall into the cooling tray of a roasting machine at Fuego Coffee Roasters' roasting facility
The world's best coffee thrives near the equator
where slow growing allows beans to gather flavor
either — labor costs are too high and she worries about the increasing risk of crop-damaging hurricanes
She shrugs off buying coffee from Hawaii and California
global coffee green exports were down 14.2% from a year earlier
according to the International Coffee Organization's market report
The shortage led to the highest price ever for raw coffee in February
breaking the record set in 1977 when severe frost wiped out 70% of Brazil's coffee plants
Climate isn't the only thing driving up prices
a buyer for San Francisco-based Ritual Coffee Roasters
She described being in Mexico in April seeking to finalize contracts between Trump's fits and starts on tariffs
It reminded her of being in Colombia a month earlier as Trump threatened and then backed away from tariffs that would have affected coffee prices
because at the end of the day it didn't exist," Whalen said
Some of the recent rise in coffee prices may be from importers buying extra in anticipation of the tariffs
Colón believes prices will go still higher as import taxes begin being paid
And with consumer confidence hitting a 12-year low
Colón could see a decrease in demand for her premium coffee
"It is tough on our end because it drives the price up
tough on the consumer end because they have to pay more and tough on the farmers' end because they may be experiencing really significant losses," Colón said
make coffee at Fuego Coffee Roasters in Rochester
she and her husband took out a $50,000 loan to buy a custom coffee roaster from Turkey that will triple capacity
They're trying to increase sales by adding new wholesale clients like coffee shops
and selling directly to homes via a beans-of-the-month-style subscription service
The Colóns have raised the wholesale price on a pound of roasted beans by 25 cents
They're considering doing the same for pour-overs and espresso drinks at their two retail locations
one couple said they don't look at the coffee's price on the receipt
"We know we could go find coffee cheaper somewhere else," said Rob Newell
as he held a cooing infant daughter alongside his wife
"Maybe it's just because we're new parents
cabin fever staying in the house all day."
The warehouse where she roasts has some extra space
so she's weighing stacking up more bags of raw beans there to save as much as $500 on monthly storage costs in port cities
She's tried to cultivate relationships with farmers to minimize price spikes and control bean quality
She described working with a farmer in Colombia as coffee prices were spiking in February to lock in a one-year contract that avoided the worst of the increase
she's had to get used to the complexity of tariffs
she turned down a pitch from a Montreal coffee importer who suggested the U.S
dollar's strength in Canada would allow her to save money by importing through their warehouse
She feared that tariffs on Canada could increase prices
the coffee would have to cross an extra border
And the value of the dollar has been up and down
"I want things to be less complicated instead of more," she said
The Associated Press' climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP's standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at <a href="http://AP.org">AP.org</a>
In a post Sunday on his Truth Social platform
Trump said he has authorized a 100% tariff "on any and all Movies" coming into the U.S