Category Archives:Black Hills Life

rushmore plaza civic center
May. 21.

Memorial Day Mural: Commemorating Service, Soldiers, & Sacrifice

By GotMine | Posted in Black Hills Life, Civic Center News, Community Events |
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The Rushmore Plaza Civic Center’s East Concourse is currently undergoing a compelling transformation. Just in time for Memorial Day, Art Alley Artist Guild members Aaron “Amp” Pearcy and Derek “Focus” Smith have begun creation of an expansive, patriotic mural. With a mission to share and spread positivity, inspire creativity, and bring people together with art, Pearcy and Smith’s project is an expression of gratitude for the armed forces. In a partnership with the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, the mural is being created to commemorate the selfless service given by all military men and women.

Pearcy and Smith will include the names of all 6,500 soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. A portrait of a soldier will fade into the colors of the American flag and a B-1 Bomber, as well as the emblems of each military branch. Both artists share a deep sense of pride in creating the original artwork which is on display in the facility. “The remembrance of our fallen as well as the living is detrimental to keeping hope alive in the community, to keep those who have given the ultimate sacrifice close to heart and mind, and to keep those who are with us in prayer and acknowledgment.”

Along with their dedication to evocative art, both Pearcy and Smith are active within the region. Pearcy has been involved in the conception of five large scale building murals, all of which were created to benefit the community. These include the Hope mural in Pine Ridge, and a mural to commemorate the Taize pilgrimage taking place in Redshirt. Smith has recently worked with a Lakota art class, teaching students about graffiti and its history, styles, and famous personas. Together, the two artists hope that the mural featured in the Civic Center will serve as a gift to service men and women and their endless commitment to our country.

The public is invited to watch Pearcy and Smith as they create a showcase of commemorative artwork. The project is currently underway, with completion scheduled for the evening of Friday, May 24th. Any guests who would like to view the artists and their work are welcome to stop by the East Concourse from 9:00am to 8:00pm, located between the Ice Arena and the Food Court.

The Rushmore Plaza Civic Center would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend. Along with the talented artists, our staff hopes the community will join in a celebration of our freedom, our family, and our strength.

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mount rushmore civic center
May. 15.

Summertime + Conferences at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center

By GotMine | Posted in Black Hills Life, Civic Center News |
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As summer makes its way to the Black Hills, the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center is fortunate to host a variety of conferences and trade shows in our facility. The season is ideal for exploring the majestic beauty and iconic landmarks that comprise our region. Conferences of all sizes and types gather in Rapid City not only to conduct market business, but to take in the sights, the sounds, and the vibrant lifestyle that our community is known for. From excursions to Mount Rushmore to Main Street Square, we are excited for all of our conference attendees to experience our home and all it has to offer.

This weekend marks the Annual Session of the South Dakota Dental Association. Taking place from May 16th to May 18th, the conference will feature some of the industry’s foremost thought leaders as well as several exhibits and mixers. For attendees, a dinner will be served on Friday evening, followed by entertainment from the magician “Reza.” Reza is one of the fastest rising stars in the industry, with his mind set on changing the world’s perception of magic. After Reza’s show, the classic rock/pop band Dogs Without Sweaters will perform for guests.

The conference also features an abundance of acclaimed speakers, such as Dr. John Molinari, who will speak on “Infection Control” and “Allergic Patients.” Dr. Edward Zuckerberg will address the audience about social media, while Mr. V.J. Smith will deliver an address titled “The Richest Man in Town.” Dr. Lou Graham will give “Updates in Restorative Dentistry” and “Advancements in Indirect Adhesive Dentistry.” Ms. Marsha Freeman will cover personalities and team systems, while Ms. Jennifer Nehl will deliver “A Framework for Understanding the Poverty Mindset.” Terry Friend will speak about treatment for the pregnant patient, and Dr. John Zimmer will address “Caries Management in Early Childhood.” Lastly, Dr. Robert Lowe is presenting “Aesthetic Overhaul from Basic to Cutting Edge,” and “Clinical Treatment Planning and Problem Solving – When It Doesn’t Go By The Book.”

This year’s South Dakota Dental Association conference will combine both education and entertainment for an event that is sure to keep attendees on the edge of their seats. In addition to the South Dakota Dental Association conference, we will also be hosting several graduations this weekend, including Central and Stevens High Schools, Western Dakota Tech, and National American University. We would like to extend congratulations to all of the accomplished students who will be receiving their degrees this weekend.

To all of our guests who visit the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center for conferences, trade shows, and diverse events over the summer, we welcome you with much anticipation. We hope you have the chance to explore our fantastic community and all of its rich cultural, educational, and entertainment opportunities, both within our facility and beyond.

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rushmore plaza civic center
Apr. 30.

A Saturday to Celebrate

By GotMine | Posted in Black Hills Life, Civic Center News, Community Events |
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This weekend will be a fantastically busy one at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center. From graduation and dance to the circus and shopping, there are several reasons to celebrate with our friends and guests!

Naja Shrine Circus

This Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, prepare to be amazed by the wondrous sights of the Naja Shrine Circus. A much anticipated annual event, the legendary three ring spectacle is coming to Rapid City. Gather the family and come see acrobats, wild animals and clowns as they dazzle in the Barnett Arena. It’s a trip down memory lane for many adults and an experience of wide-eyed wonder for younger guests. General admission tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for youth, and reserved seating is $16 for floor and $14 for all balcony.    

South Dakota School of Mines & Technology Graduation

The South Dakota School of Mines & Technology will host its 167th commencement ceremony at 9:00am Saturday, May 4th in the Ice Arena. Nearly 270 students will receive their Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Science or Doctor of Philosophy degrees. South Dakota Gov. Dennis M. Daugaard will deliver the commencement address, providing inspiration to students and insights to his career in politics, financial services, the nonprofit sector and law. Big congratulations to all of the graduates who will receive diplomas this Saturday!

Academy of Dance Arts Performances

On Saturday, May 4th Academy of Dance Arts will present ‘A Midsummer Dream Suite’ featuring local students and their hard work. Home to over 300 registered individuals from the Black Hills, Western Wyoming, and Central South Dakota, the Academy of Dance Arts is the local benchmark for compassionate excellence in dance education. Classes include classical ballet, pointe, Pilates, tap, jazz, lyrical, modern, Christian hip hop, boys, early childhood, as well as private instruction. Saturday’s performances will begin with Constellations at 1:00pm featuring the early childhood class, and the evening performance will begin at 6:00pm.

Mayfest 2013 Banquet and Auction

The theme of Mayfest 2013 will be “Igniting Passion and Purpose” and will take place on Saturday, May 4th at 5:00pm in LaCroix Hall. Thanks to the generous support of the community, last year’s event raised an incredible $113,000 for the Rapid City Catholic Schools. These funds are critical to the operating budget for the schools as they provide tuition assistance to families in need, improve technology, enhance teacher compensation, and fund facility improvements. The Silent Auction begins at 5:00pm, Dinner at 7:00pm, and the Live Auction at 7:30pm. Attendees will have a chance to win a 2012 Custom Motorcycle, as well as a trip for four to the Grand Canyon and a trip for two to Key West, Florida.

Vendor Palooza

This weekend’s Vendor Palooza will take place on Saturday, May 4th from 10:00am to 3:00pm in Rushmore CD. Come and browse over fifty vendors and crafters as they display countless gifts for yourself or someone special. Admission is free, so grab your friends and head to Saturday’s Vendor Palooza!

 

We look forward to seeing all of our guests this weekend as we celebrate major milestones, timeless entertainment, and the countless benefits of community support. See you at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center!

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theatre rapid city south dakota
Apr. 25.

Dancing Into Summer Days

By GotMine | Posted in Black Hills Life, Civic Center News, Community Events, Theatre |
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The skies are clearing, the snow is melting, and warm summer days are in the near future! It’s the perfect time of year to embrace the seasons and celebrate with a host of dance events at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center. This week kicks off the revelries with the Black Hills Dance Festival, followed by performances from the students of Dance Elite on Saturday, April 27th, and Academy of Dance Arts and Prima School of Dancing in May.

Grab your dancing shoes and head to the Civic Center this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The Black Hills Dance Festival is the premier gathering of Ballroom, Country, Latin and Line Dancers in the area. From beginners to professionals, the festival is open to dancers of all degrees. It’s a fun social event known throughout the Dakotas, so you won’t want to miss out. The event will feature dance workshops and performances, coupled with social dancing by all attendees. Take this opportunity to learn from professional instructors and experience the excitement of the weekend as a participant or spectator. The Black Hills Dance Festival is being held in Rushmore H on Thursday, April 25th from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. On Friday, April 26th the festival moves into Rushmore G and H and takes place from 10:00am to 11:30ish, and on Saturday, April 27th from 8:30am to midnight.

Also taking place on Saturday, April 27th is Dance Elite’s “Britannia Part 1” and “Britannia Part 2.” Part 1 begins at 2:30pm and is a Ballet Matinee, while Part 2 begins at 7:00pm and features Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, and Irish Step dancing in the Fine Arts Theatre. Known as Rapid City’s “most prestigious school of dance,” Dance Elite specializes in Classical, Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Irish Step Dance, Lyrical as well as choreography for pageants and competition. The school’s Director is Lia Malcolm, a former student of Great Britain’s “Royal Ballet.” For the last thirty years she has worked alongside some of the world’s biggest superstars and celebrities, and has danced with some of the most renowned names in the industry. On Saturday, her students will have the opportunity to showcase all of their talent and hard work in two highly anticipated performances. Be sure to come and show your support for the students on Saturday, April 27th at 2:30pm and 7:00pm in the Fine Arts Theatre.

For those of you looking towards May, the month will also feature many dance performances by Rapid City students. First up are the students of Academy of Dance Arts on Saturday, May 4th. Presenting “A Midsummer Dream Suite,” the festivities will begin with an afternoon performance at 1:00pm featuring Constellations, an early childhood class. The evening performance begins at 6:00pm and will showcase the older students.

The following Saturday, May 11th puts the students of Prima School of Dancing at center stage as they perform “The Pearl.” The performance at 2:00pm is ballet only, while the performance at 7:00pm will feature Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Modern, Lyrical, Musical Theatre, and Drama.

Stay tuned for more upcoming information on May’s dance performances. In the meantime, we’ll kick off the season with this week’s Black Hills Dance Festival and Dance Elite’s Britannia Part 1 and Part 2 on Saturday, April 27th. Here’s to a weekend of elegance, beauty, and the dedication of Rapid City’s aspiring dancers.

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prom rapid city
Apr. 17.

A Weekend of Timeless Glamour: Prom 2013

By GotMine | Posted in Black Hills Life, Civic Center News, Community Events |
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This weekend will mark a major milestone for many high school students throughout Rapid City. After months spent preparing, the 2013 Central/Stevens Prom and Native Student Prom Dinner are being held on Saturday, April 20th at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center.

A night that many students will recall with fond memories throughout their lives, this year’s chosen theme is ‘Timeless Glamour.’ This decision was made after months of planning, as Prom Advisor for Central High School Jennifer Mueller explains. “We sort of have an informal prom committee,” says Mueller. “Whoever shows up for a meeting that the advisors arrange will get a say in the event.” Planning begins in November, when students start discussing possible themes. Ideas are narrowed down during the beginning of December. Before Christmas, a meeting is held during which themes are officially proposed to fellow students in presentations that range from very formal to informal. The evening’s photographer is also selected at this time.

The 2013 Central/Stevens prom theme of ‘Timeless Glamour’ is the result of several ideas that were presented, including Old Hollywood, New Hollywood, the Great Gatsby, and an overall tribute to a party for the ages and a glamorous lifestyle.

At 8am on Friday, April 19th students will begin the hectic process of setting up for and decorating the facility. Rushmore Plaza Civic Center staff will hang a starburst from the ceiling, while the students fulfill the remaining tasks. Along with selecting their theme, the students were also responsible for choosing and ordering all of their decorations. Those who participate in the setup process will be served breakfast and lunch, and will continue working throughout the day until everything is ready for Saturday’s event.

“It’s kind of like planning a wedding,” says Mueller. “There’s lots of last minute details you can’t address until a week or two beforehand, so the last week is usually quite a flurry of business.” While the students of Central and Stevens had plenty of details to attend to, certain factors were not within their control. One of these was the actual date of the event, which is set several years in advance due to the facility’s tight schedule.

While the Central/Stevens Prom is being held in Barnett Arena on Saturday, a Native Student Prom Dinner will also be held in the Theatre Lobby beginning at 5:00pm on Saturday. Both events will give students a much anticipated opportunity to socialize with friends, show off their fashion sense, and make memories that will last a lifetime. We wish all of the attending students an entertaining and safe prom night!

Also taking place this weekend is the TIE Conference, an event which has gained a reputation as having the best classroom teachers, network administrators, and educational administrators in attendance to share their strategies, methods, and best practices with fellow educators. Over the past 26 years, the conference has evolved to currently address the needs of technology integration, curriculum mandates, student achievement and effective assessment and evaluation. The TIE Conference will take place from Sunday, April 21st through Tuesday, April 23rd.

 

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