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2026 Retail Business of the Year Award — Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries
🏆 Presented to Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries CLIMB Rapid City proudly recognizes Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries as its 2026 Retail Business of the Year! For decades, Prairie Edge has been downtown Rapid City's premier destination for Native American art, crafts, jewelry, books, and music. Located on the corner of 6th Street and Main, the gallery showcases both traditional and contemporary Native American art and culture, featuring the finest selections from regional artists and craftspeople. Prairie Edge has become a cultural landmark in the Black Hills — a place where art, culture, and community come together. Visitors and locals alike rely on Prairie Edge for authentic Native American artistry, knowledgeable staff, and a shopping experience that celebrates the heritage of the region. Congratulations to Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries — CLIMB Rapid City's 2026 Retail Business of the Year! Learn more: Visit Prairie Edge Read Prairie Edge reviews on Yelp Follow Prairie Edge on Facebook #PrairieEdge #RapidCityRetail #NativeAmericanArt #BlackHillsShopping #CLIMBRapidCity #RetailBusinessOfTheYear
2026 Real Estate Agent of the Year Award — David Kahler
🏆 Presented to David Kahler CLIMB Rapid City proudly recognizes David Kahler as its 2026 Real Estate Agent of the Year! David's decades of experience, extensive local sales record, and reputation for professionalism have made him one of the most recognized names in Black Hills real estate. Public rankings place him among Rapid City's leading agents, while client feedback frequently highlights his knowledge, patience, communication, and willingness to go above and beyond. Whether someone is purchasing their first home, selling an established property, relocating to the Black Hills, or making an investment, David and the Kahler Team have built a reputation around experience, guidance, and results. Congratulations to David Kahler—CLIMB Rapid City's 2026 Real Estate Agent of the Year! Learn more: Visit Kahler Real Estate View Rapid City agent rankings Read Rapid City agent reviews on Zillow #DavidKahler #KahlerRealEstate #RapidCityRealEstate #BlackHillsHomes #CLIMBRapidCity #RealEstateAgentOfTheYear
2026 Attorney of the Year Award — Timothy Rensch
🏆 CLIMB Rapid City proudly presents Timothy Rensch with the 2026 Attorney of the Year Award! For more than three decades, Timothy Rensch has been one of the Black Hills' most respected and relentless advocates. As the founder of Rensch Law Office in downtown Rapid City, Mr. Rensch has built a reputation for fearless courtroom representation backed by 30 years of active jury trial experience. Recognized with a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating and selected to Super Lawyers, Mr. Rensch specializes in criminal defense, DUI/DWI, personal injury, drug offenses, juvenile matters, and traffic violations. His peers, clients, and the courts alike know him as a trial lawyer who prepares every case as if it is going to trial — because it often does. From high-profile criminal matters to everyday South Dakotans in need of a strong defense, Timothy Rensch has earned the trust of the Rapid City community through experience, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Congratulations to Timothy Rensch — CLIMB Rapid City's 2026 Attorney of the Year! Learn more and schedule a consultation: Visit Rensch Law Office View Timothy Rensch on Avvo View Timothy Rensch on Super Lawyers 📞 Call Rensch Law Office: 605-343-3300 #TimothyRensch #RenschLaw #CLIMBRapidCity #RapidCityBusiness #AttorneyOfTheYear #SuperLawyers #CriminalDefense #PersonalInjury #RapidCitySD #BlackHillsBusiness #SouthDakotaBusiness
2026 Fastest-Growing New Business Award — Riverside Asphalt Solutions, LLC
🏆 CLIMB Rapid City proudly presents Riverside Asphalt Solutions, LLC with the 2026 Fastest-Growing New Business Award! Riverside Asphalt Solutions has quickly become a recognized name throughout Rapid City and the Black Hills by combining dependable service, competitive pricing, quality workmanship, and a genuine commitment to the local community. Led by owner Ray Jeffery, this family-owned company provides professional asphalt paving, driveway installation, overlays, repairs, sealcoating, hot-rubber crack filling, parking-lot striping, and pavement maintenance. Its rapid growth reflects the trust Riverside continues to earn from homeowners, property managers, and commercial customers across the region. From the first estimate to the final pass of the paver, Riverside Asphalt Solutions believes every project should be built strong, built sturdy, and built to last. Congratulations to Riverside Asphalt Solutions, LLC—CLIMB Rapid City's 2026 Fastest-Growing New Business! Learn more and request an estimate: Visit Riverside Asphalt Solutions Follow Riverside on Facebook Follow Riverside on Instagram View its BBB Business Profile 📞 Call Ray: 605-510-9568 #RiversideAsphaltSolutions #CLIMBRapidCity #RapidCityBusiness #FastestGrowingBusiness #SupportLocalBusiness #RapidCitySD #BlackHillsBusiness #AsphaltPaving #Sealcoating #SouthDakotaBusiness
2026 Voted Best Restaurant — Tally's Silver Spoon
Climb Rapid City is proud to recognize Tally's Silver Spoon as our community-selected 2026 Voted Best Restaurant! Located in the heart of downtown Rapid City, Tally's Silver Spoon has earned its reputation by turning familiar favorites into memorable dining experiences. From creative breakfasts and elevated lunch dishes to beautifully presented seasonal dinners, Tally's delivers an impressive combination of culinary talent, quality ingredients, welcoming service, and relaxed sophistication. Chef Benjamin's classical training and commitment to locally sourced ingredients shine through in a menu that feels adventurous without losing the warmth of a true neighborhood restaurant. Whether you're meeting friends for brunch, entertaining clients, celebrating a special occasion, or introducing visitors to Rapid City's food scene, Tally's Silver Spoon represents the very best of local dining. For its creativity, consistency, atmosphere, and contribution to the Rapid City community, the team at Climb Rapid City Business Listing and Marketplace is honored to present Tally's Silver Spoon with our: 🏆 2026 Voted Best Restaurant Award ⭐ Local Favorite • Culinary Excellence Congratulations to the entire Tally's Silver Spoon team. Thank you for continuing to raise the bar and giving Rapid City a dining destination our community can proudly recommend! Visit Tally's Silver Spoon 📍 530 6th Street, Rapid City, SD 57701 📞 605-342-7621 🌐 Official Website and Menus 👍 Tally's Silver Spoon on Facebook 🍽️ View its Visit Rapid City listing Award presented by Climb Rapid City as an independent community recognition; it is not an official city-government award.
2026 Veteran Service of the Year Award — Home Service Solutions, LLC
CLIMB Rapid City Business Listing & Marketplace is proud to recognize Home Service Solutions, LLC as our 2026 Veteran Service of the Year Award recipient! As a community action group dedicated to supporting local businesses and strengthening Rapid City, we are honored to spotlight a company that represents service, hard work, reliability, and hometown pride. Home Service Solutions is a veteran-owned local business offering dependable solutions for projects around the home and property. Their promise says it best: "One Call. We Do It All." What truly stands out is their willingness to work hard, serve their neighbors, and bring the same dedication and discipline associated with military service into the Rapid City business community. Supporting veteran-owned businesses means supporting the men and women who have already answered the call to serve our country—and who continue serving by creating jobs, helping local families, and strengthening our community. For their commitment to service, their hardworking team, and the positive example they set for other local businesses, CLIMB Rapid City proudly presents: HOME SERVICE SOLUTIONS, LLC — 2026 Veteran Service of the Year We strongly encourage the Rapid City community to give them an opportunity when you need dependable home or property services. Call: 605-391-1945 Visit: www.HomeServiceSolutions.Pro Congratulations to the entire Home Service Solutions team—and thank you for your service to our country and our community! Veteran Owned. Community Proven. Rapid City Proud. #CLIMBRapidCity #HomeServiceSolutions #VeteranOwned #SupportLocal #RapidCityBusiness #VeteranServiceAward #ShopLocal #BuildCommunity #SouthDakotaBusiness
Hollywood Mourns the Loss of Hayden Panettiere, Dead at 36
 **By CLIMB Rapid City | August 17, 2026** Hollywood and fans around the world are mourning the sudden death of actress **Hayden Panettiere**, the former child star who became widely known for her memorable performances in *Heroes*, *Nashville*, *Remember the Titans* and the *Scream* franchise. Panettiere died Sunday, August 16, 2026, at the age of 36. Her family confirmed her death through her representative. Authorities in Greenville, South Carolina, are investigating the circumstances surrounding her death. As of Monday, an official cause of death had **not been determined**, and authorities said the preliminary investigation showed no signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances. ([Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/american-actress-hayden-panettiere-dies-36-abc-news-reports-2026-08-17/)) ## From Child Star to Household Name Born August 21, 1989, in New York, Panettiere entered the entertainment industry at an extraordinarily young age. Her early career included appearances on television and in films, but millions of moviegoers remember her as **Sheryl Yoast in the 2000 football drama *Remember the Titans***. Her career reached another level in 2006 when she took on the role of **Claire Bennet** in NBC's *Heroes*. Claire, a high-school cheerleader with the ability to rapidly heal from injuries, became one of the show's most recognizable characters. The series turned Panettiere into an international star. She later demonstrated another side of her talent as country singer **Juliette Barnes** on *Nashville*. Her performance earned her two Golden Globe nominations and allowed audiences to see her abilities as both an actress and singer. ([Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/american-actress-hayden-panettiere-dies-36-abc-news-reports-2026-08-17/)) Panettiere also became familiar to horror fans through her role as **Kirby Reed** in *Scream 4*, later returning to the franchise in *Scream VI*. ## A Life Beyond the Screen Panettiere's life wasn't defined solely by Hollywood success. She spoke publicly about difficult periods in her life and, earlier this year, released the memoir *This Is Me: A Reckoning*. In it, she discussed growing up in the entertainment industry and some of the personal struggles she faced away from the cameras. ([Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/american-actress-hayden-panettiere-dies-36-abc-news-reports-2026-08-17/)) Her death comes just three years after another devastating loss for the family. Her younger brother, actor **Jansen Panettiere, died in 2023**. ([Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/american-actress-hayden-panettiere-dies-36-abc-news-reports-2026-08-17/)) Panettiere is survived by her daughter, **Kaya**, and her parents. ([Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/american-actress-hayden-panettiere-dies-36-abc-news-reports-2026-08-17/)) ## Family Remembers an "Incredible Light" In announcing her death, Panettiere's father described his daughter as an incredible light who brought tremendous love and happiness to the people around her and to those who knew her through her work. The family has asked for privacy as they grieve. ([ABC News](https://abcnews.com/US/hayden-panettiere-dies-36/story?id=135698473)) Tributes have also begun appearing throughout the entertainment industry as fellow actors, colleagues and fans remember a performer whose career stretched from childhood into adulthood. ([Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/american-actress-hayden-panettiere-dies-36-abc-news-reports-2026-08-17/)) ## Questions Remain About Her Death Because news of Panettiere's death is still developing, CLIMB Rapid City believes it is important to distinguish confirmed information from speculation circulating online. Emergency responders were called after Panettiere was found unresponsive in Greenville on Sunday. Authorities reported that she was in cardiac arrest and that efforts to resuscitate her were unsuccessful. However, **the official cause and manner of death remain under investigation as of August 17**. Preliminary findings have indicated no evidence of foul play. ([AP News](https://apnews.com/article/1d660d3989916c3fa00421d05e4d78e7)) Until investigators release their final findings, reports attempting to definitively attribute her death to a particular cause should be treated as unconfirmed. ## Remembering Hayden Panettiere For a generation that grew up watching movies and television in the 2000s, Hayden Panettiere was one of Hollywood's most recognizable young stars. Some will remember the cheerleader from *Heroes*. Others will remember the ambitious and complicated Juliette Barnes from *Nashville*, young Sheryl Yoast in *Remember the Titans*, or Kirby Reed fighting for survival in *Scream*. Behind all of those characters was a woman who had spent almost her entire life in the public eye. Hayden Panettiere was only 36. Her passing brings an unexpectedly early end to a career that had already spanned more than three decades. **CLIMB Rapid City extends its condolences to Hayden Panettiere's daughter, family, friends, colleagues and fans during this difficult time.** *This is a developing story. CLIMB Rapid City will update this article as verified information becomes available.*
Whitish Kimberly
December 9, 1979 - August 8, 2026 Obituary courtesy of the Rapid City Journal.
Governor Rhoden Announces Support for New Rapid City Industrial Park
Governor Larry Rhoden announced support for Elevate Rapid City's development of a new industrial park in Rapid City. The project is expected to attract employers, create jobs, and strengthen the region's economy by providing ready-to-build sites for manufacturers and logistics companies.
Rapid City Area Schools Celebrates Teacher of the Year and Bus Driver of the Year
Rapid City Area Schools is proud to recognize two outstanding staff members whose dedication and service make a meaningful impact on students, families, and schools across the district. The Teacher of the Year and Bus Driver of the Year were honored at a district ceremony celebrating the difference great educators and support staff make every day.
Ribbon Cutting: Sanford Health Black Hills Imaging Center
Sanford Health Black Hills Imaging Center recently marked the installation of South Dakota's first photon-counting CT scanner with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The new technology offers sharper images and lower radiation doses, bringing advanced diagnostic capabilities to patients across the Black Hills region.
Rapid City Area Schools Invites Community to Bond Referendum Information Sessions
Rapid City Area Schools invites community members to attend upcoming Bond Referendum Information Sessions. These sessions are an opportunity to learn more about the proposed bond to address long-standing facility needs across the district, including safety upgrades, classroom additions, and building renovations. Sessions are open to all residents and include a presentation followed by Q&A with district leadership. The first day of school for the 2026-27 year is August 24, 2026.
Rapid Valley Road Work Notice - Chip Seal Project Beginning July 20
The Pennington County Highway Department notified residents of upcoming chip seal operations in the Rapid Valley area beginning Monday, July 20. The project, completed by Simon Contractors, was anticipated to continue through Friday, August 7, weather permitting. Drivers are advised to expect brief delays and to use caution near work zones.
Central High School Student Selected for Prestigious NASA-Funded Internship
Central High School student Brayden Sanderson has been selected to participate in the highly competitive NASA STEM Enhancement in Earth and Space Science (SEES) Summer Internship. The program, funded by NASA and administered by The University of Texas at Austin's Center for Space Research, gives high school students the chance to work alongside scientists on real-world research projects. Brayden is one of a small group of students nationwide chosen for the honor.
Northline Business Park: Building a Place for Business Growth
Northline Business Park will give local companies and new employers room to build, grow, and create jobs in Rapid City. The new business park, supported by Elevate Rapid City, is designed to attract employers and provide space for existing businesses to expand, contributing to the region's economic development and workforce growth.
Rapid City Area Schools Seniors Turn Testing Day into Day of Service
On Test-a-Palooza Day, while students in grades 9-11 focused on state and district assessments, Rapid City Area Schools seniors turned the day into a Day of Service. Big ideas often start with students, and this day grew into something much bigger as seniors fanned out across the community to volunteer with local nonprofits, parks, and neighborhood projects.
Elevate Rapid City Announces New CEO Jack Valentine
Elevate Rapid City announced the appointment of Jack Valentine as the new President and CEO, effective July 27. A U.S. Marine, former SWAT Team Leader, coach, mentor, and economic development executive, Jack has spent his career leading teams, developing people, building partnerships, and delivering results in complex and dynamic environments. He succeeds the outgoing president who served the organization for several years.
Rapid City Man Arrested Following Investigation into Solicitation of Minors
Following a lengthy investigation, the Rapid City Police Department and Pennington County Sheriff's Office arrested Jesse Victor Joseph, 44, of Rapid City in connection to offenses related to reports of crimes against juvenile victims. The joint investigation involved multiple agencies and underscores the region's commitment to protecting children.
Rapid Valley Breaks Ground on School Renovation and Expansion
Rapid Valley and Rapid City Area Schools marked a major milestone with a celebratory groundbreaking ceremony for the upcoming Rapid Valley school renovation and addition project. The project will add new classrooms, upgrade common areas, and improve safety and accessibility throughout the building. Construction is underway and the renovated school is expected to welcome students for the 2027-28 school year.
Elevate Rapid City Announces 2026 Business Award Winners
Elevate Rapid City held its fifth annual business awards celebration on June 9 at The Monument. With nearly 400 people in attendance, the celebration featured 10 award presentations recognizing outstanding local businesses and leaders for their contributions to the Rapid City community and economy.
Pennington County Commissioners Address Cybersecurity Incident
The Pennington County Board of Commissioners recognizes the frustration many residents have experienced following the recent cybersecurity incident affecting county operations. The Board wants the public to know that restoring all county services remains a top priority. All County offices remain open and operational, although a few services remain limited and processing times may be longer than usual as systems are safely restored.
Rapid City Summer Nights Concert Series Returns for 2026 Season
Rapid City Summer Nights returns to Main Street Square for its 2026 season of free outdoor concerts every Thursday evening. The season lineup features Brandon Jones (country), 8th Hour (grunge pop), Stereo Trip with First Responders Night (rock), Rowan Grace (pop), The RathCo (rock), and Full Battle Rattle with Military Appreciation Night. Food trucks and family activities run alongside the music each week.
City Parks and Recreation Director Announces Retirement After 13+ Years
Mayor Jason Salamun announced the pending retirement of Jeff Biegler, long-time director of Rapid City's Parks and Recreation Department. Biegler's retirement will be effective September 18. Over more than 13 years of service, Biegler and his staff managed the City's greenway, bike path, and parks system, earning recognition from the Black Hills and Badlands Association. The City will begin a search for his successor in the coming weeks.
City and Sports Commission Announce Partnership with Sanford Health on New Sports Complex
Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun and Rapid City Sports Commission Executive Director Domico Rodriguez announced a corporate partnership agreement with Sanford Health for naming recognition for the new community sports complex. Sanford Health Black Hills President and CEO Kyle Wiese and Sanford Sports President Steve Young joined the Mayor for the August 6 announcement. The partnership will help fund the new community sports complex, expanding athletic opportunities for residents and visitors.
Five Take Oaths of Office for Rapid City Common Council
Five members of the Rapid City Common Council took oaths of office during the July 6 Council meeting: Laura Armstrong, Josh Biberdorf, Lindsey Seachris, Kevin Maher, and John Roberts. The full 2026-27 Common Council includes Greg Strommen, Kevin Maher, Laura Armstrong, Callie Meyer, Stephen Tamang, Bill Evans, Lindsey Seachris, Lance Lehmann, John Roberts, and Josh Biberdorf. Council President Stephen Tamang and Vice President Callie Meyer subsequently appointed members to the City's major standing committees.
City of Rapid City Experiences Cyber Incident to Lift Station
The City of Rapid City experienced a cyber incident involving one of its lift stations, which is used as part of the city's wastewater system. City officials discovered the attempt quickly and precautions were taken to protect the system. The incident is under investigation and the city is working with cybersecurity experts to secure its networks. Residents may experience brief service interruptions as systems are safely restored.
Public Can View 2027 City Budget Proposal Online
Rapid City's proposed 2027 budget is now available for viewing online. The proposal includes a major reduction in spending, coupled with a historic investment in the City's roads. Mayor Jason Salamun and department directors fielded questions from local media regarding the proposed budget. Residents can access the proposal on the City's website at www.rcgov.org under the Community Bookmark section and are encouraged to provide feedback ahead of the public hearings.
Rapid City Regional Airport Posts Record First Half
Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) enplaned 206,010 passengers between January and June 2026, the highest first-half total in airport history. The figure surpassed the previous record of 196,136 set during the first half of 2025. Airport officials attribute the growth to expanded airline service, strong tourism demand, and increased business travel to the Black Hills region.
Central States Fair Kicks Off in Rapid City
The Central States Fair opens Thursday at the Central States Fairgrounds with carnival rides, livestock shows, and grandstand concerts. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for kids, and free on opening day until noon.
Black Hills Powwow Returns to The Monument
The Black Hills Powwow celebrates its 35th year with drum groups, dance competitions, and a hand games tournament at The Monument. Grand entry is at 7 p.m. Friday. All are welcome.
Summer Nights Concert on Main Street Square
The free Summer Nights concert series continues Thursday with the Black Hills Jazz Orchestra on Main Street Square. Food trucks open at 5 p.m. and music starts at 6.
Storybook Island Hosts Holiday Lights Night
Storybook Island stays open late Saturday for a holiday lights preview, with thousands of displays along the walking paths. Hot cocoa and cookies are provided by volunteers.
Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup
The annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup draws thousands of spectators each fall. Visitors can watch cowboys and park staff drive the herd across the plains. Arrive early for best viewing.
Black Hills Film Festival Returns
The Black Hills Film Festival screens independent films from around the world at the Elks Theatre. The five-day event includes filmmaker Q&A sessions and an awards gala Saturday night.
Rapid City Farmers Market Every Saturday
The Rapid City Farmers Market runs every Saturday morning through October at the Black Hills Farmers Market building. Local produce, baked goods, and crafts from over 60 vendors.
ArtWalk Rapid City Gallery Tour
Downtown galleries open their doors Friday evening for the monthly ArtWalk, featuring local painters, jewelers, and live music. Maps are available at Main Street Square.
Downtown Rapid City Car Show
Over 200 classic cars line Main Street Saturday for the annual downtown car show. Trophies are awarded in 15 categories and live music runs all afternoon.
Hills Alive Music Festival at Hart Ranch
The Hills Alive Christian music festival returns to Hart Ranch Campground with two stages and over 20 artists. Camping and day passes are available online and at the gate.
Rapid City Youth Baseball League Championships
The Rapid City Youth Baseball League wraps its season with championship games across four age divisions this weekend at Fitzgerald Stadium. Admission is free.
Black Hills Rapids Host Regional Soccer Tournament
Over 40 youth teams are in Rapid City this weekend for the Black Hills Rapids Fall Classic at the Sioux Park fields. Matches run Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Black Hills Stock Show Rodeo Results
Local saddle bronc rider Tyler Benson placed second at the Black Hills Stock Show Rodeo, earning a spot in the short round. The PRCA event wraps Sunday at The Monument.
Sturgis Brown Volleyball Opens Tryouts
Sturgis Brown High School volleyball tryouts begin Monday. Head coach Jenna Mitchell expects 45 athletes to compete for 18 roster spots across varsity and JV.
Rapid City Rush Sign New Goaltender
The Rapid City Rush announced the signing of goaltender Marcus Hall for the upcoming season. Hall posted a .915 save percentage in the ECHL last year and is expected to anchor the Rush defense.
Rapid City Marshals Announce 2027 Schedule
The Rapid City Marshals indoor football team released their 12-game schedule, with the home opener set for March at The Monument. Season tickets are on sale now.
South Dakota State Jackrabbits Open Preseason Camp
SDSU football opened preseason camp in Brookings with 105 players reporting. The Jackrabbits are ranked in the FCS preseason top five and open September 2 at Iowa.
Black Hills Triathlon Draws 600 Athletes
The annual Black Hills Triathlon returns to Pactola Lake Sunday morning. The Olympic-distance race features a 1.5K swim, 40K bike, and 10K run through the hills.
Stevens High School Football Season Opener
The Stevens Raiders open their football season Friday night against Lincoln at O'Harra Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. with a sold-out crowd expected.
Central High School Cross Country Meet at Hart Ranch
Central High School hosts a 12-team cross country meet Saturday at Hart Ranch. The varsity boys race starts at 10 a.m. with awards to follow at the pavilion.
Rapid City Council Approves 2027 Budget
The Rapid City Council approved a $285 million municipal budget Monday night, increasing funding for road repair, public safety, and parks. The budget holds the property tax levy flat for the third consecutive year.
Monument Health Expands Cardiac Care Unit
Monument Health broke ground on a 24-bed cardiac care expansion at Rapid City Hospital. The $42 million project is expected to open in fall 2027 and will bring advanced heart procedures closer to Black Hills patients.