This weekend marks the Annual Session of the South Dakota Dental Association. Taking place from May 16^th to May 18^th, 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.

Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Sevendust made their debut in 1994 as “Crawlspace.” After a name change, the group released their melodically heavy self-titled debut in 1997. The album featured one of modern rock’s greatest drummers, Morgan Rose, and the R&B driven vocals of Lajon Witherspoon. Today, the band’s music appeals to audiences around the world for its diverse range in style and tone. From soft and melodic to fast-paced and heavy, the group has proven themselves one of the most skilled in the industry. Throughout the course of their career Sevendust has sold over 4 million records in the United States, and their success only seems to gain momentum.

After releasing ‘Blood,’ the fourth studio album from In This Moment, fans discovered just how resilient the band’s core has become. Following a lineup change over the past year, In This Moment has remained a strong and cohesive unit, and ‘Blood’ is a testament to that endurance. Originally formed in Los Angeles by Maria Brink and Chris Howorth in 2005, In This Moment has secured their seat as one of metal’s leading acts. In a male-dominated genre, Brink proves she can play just as tough as the boys with her hypnotic vocals and edgy allure. With several tracks that incorporate an industrial grind and undeniably catchy lyrics, Brink’s vocals have been credited as some of the most powerful you’ll hear live on stage.

In the twelve years since their formation, Pop Evil has seen their share of change. Members, style, and labels have come and gone, yet the Michigan group has only grown tighter and more focused over time. Most recently Pop Evil saw the addition of drummer Chachi Riot and guitarist Nick Fuelling, as well as their decision to not use acoustic guitars. Their latest album, ‘Onyx’ showcases the band as they explore new territory and a dedication to the transitional world of rock. Continually evolving with a fresh style for their audience, it’s the melding of pulsating bass lines and a steady groove that keeps things interesting.

It’s an evening you won’t want to miss as Sevendust, In This Moment, and Pop Evil ignite the stage on Monday, May 13^th. Doors will open at 6:30pm, with the show starting at 7:30pm. Tickets are still available, so be sure to get yours and join us for a night of electrifying entertainment by some of the industry’s most acclaimed musicians.

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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 167^th commencement ceremony at 9:00am Saturday, May 4^th 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 4^th 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 4^th 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 4^th 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!

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 25^th from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. On Friday, April 26^th the festival moves into Rushmore G and H and takes place from 10:00am to 11:30ish, and on Saturday, April 27^th from 8:30am to midnight.

Also taking place on Saturday, April 27^th 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 27^th 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 4^th. 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 11^th 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 27^th. Here’s to a weekend of elegance, beauty, and the dedication of Rapid City’s aspiring dancers.

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 19^th 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 21^st through Tuesday, April 23^rd.

The show will consist of 25 classes of bikes, with awards for first, second, and third place given away in each category. Also up for grabs is this year’s highly coveted Best of Show award, voted on by attendees of the event. Motorcycles will make their way from North Dakota, Montana, Iowa, and across the state of South Dakota to compete in this weekend’s show.

Don’t think the prizes are limited to motorcycles. With over 30 vendors in attendance, this year will feature a vendor poker run. Visit each of the booths to receive a stamp, and your card will be entered into a drawing to win a free gas BBQ grill. With warmer weather right around the corner, there’s no better time to win summer’s essential backyard tool.

Also new to the show this year will be a motorcycle build featuring Laura Klock of Klock Werks Kustom Cycles based out of Mitchell, South Dakota. Laura was named Cycle Source Magazine’s Motorcycling Woman of the Year in both 2008 and 2011, and serves as Vice President of Klock Werks alongside husband Brian. Laura is a devoted member of Helping with Horsepower, a charitable extension of Klock Werks. The program helps to design volunteer endeavors that empower, encourage, and raise funds for worthy charities.

During this year’s motorcycle show, Helping with Horsepower is partnering with the Youth and Family Services’ Girls Inc. program. The motorcycle that’s being built will be raffled off, with all proceeds going to support the Girls Inc. organization.

Mike Williams of the Black Hills Motorcycle Show says, “It’s a great event for the whole family, along with a few new things that have been added this year.” There will be plenty of activities for kids, including a sand pit brought by Youth and Family Services.

Visit the 25^th Annual Black Hills Motorcycle Show Saturday, April 13^th from 9:00am to 7:00pm, and Sunday, April 14^th from 9:00am to 4:00pm. Also taking place this weekend will be the Dakota Territory Gun Show on Saturday and Sunday in Rushmore Hall, as well as the Citizen Hearings on New Gun Laws event in LaCroix D on Saturday and Sunday. Come express your opinion on new gun laws, which will then be sent to our Senators, Representative, and the President.

We’re ready for a family-friendly weekend with several events taking place, so be sure to make your way to the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, the Center of it All!

Comedy’s Lovable Queen of Mean – Lisa Lampanelli

Love her, hate her, or love to hate her, you can’t deny Lampanelli’s quick wit and ability to give a dang good roast. If you’re ready for a raunchy good time, you won’t want to miss legendary comedian Lisa Lampanelli in the flesh. She’s bringing her “Queen of Mean” routine to the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center Theatre on Saturday, April 6th, 8:00pm.

Known as an “equal opportunity offender,” Lampanelli has become a regular on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and Howard Stern’s Sirius satellite radio shows, as well as appearances on “Late Show with David Letterman,” “Chelsea Lately,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” and “Good Morning America.” In 2009, she joined the ranks of comic greats with the premier of her first ever one-hour HBO comedy special, “Long Live the Queen,” which was received with fantastic ratings. However, it’s her numerous Comedy Central and Friars Club roasts that have gained Lampanelli the most notoriety. She has roasted personalities including Jeff Foxworthy, Pamela Anderson, David Hasselhoff, Betty White, Donald Trump and Flavor Flav to name a few.

Fans can expect this same caliber of offensive fun during Saturday night’s event. After all, it wouldn’t be Lampanelli if it wasn’t a little nasty, right? Get in on the jokes and be sure to purchase your ticket to see Lampanelli in person, Saturday, April 6th, 8:00pm. Mature audiences only!

YFS Kids’ Fair

It’s a fabulous weekend to be a kid! Youth & Family Services Kids’ Fair celebrates children and their families in an annual event that provides entertainment for all. This signature YFS weekend draws nearly 11,000 attendees every spring to the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center. For the 18th year, YFS Kids’ Fair will feature new attractions mixed with old favorites such as hands-on activities, inflatables, mini-train rides, and live entertainment. If you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, you’ve got to make your way to the Civic Center this weekend. The fun will take place Friday, April 5th from 8:30am to 4:00pm, Saturday, April 6th from 8:30am to 4:00pm, and Sunday, April 7th from 12:00pm to 4:00pm. Children under one year of age get in free, all other visitors pay $3.

National Archery in the School Program – State Tournament

On Saturday, April 6th, 660 students representing 37 schools across South Dakota will gather in Barnett Arena to put their archery skills to the test. Sponsored by South Dakota Game Fish & Parks, the National Archery in the School Program has steadily gained popularity over recent years. In fact, registration numbers have doubled from 330 students in the 2011 tournament. There is no cost for anyone who would like to watch the event, so come out and support South Dakota’s budding archers on Saturday, April 6^th, beginning at 8:00am in Barnett Arena.

We look forward to hosting all of the exciting events taking place this weekend, from comedy to kids to an archery contest. Come out and support your favorite event at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center!

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The regular season was a hard-fought showcase of determination, talent, and the ongoing dedication of loyal fans throughout the region. In fact, after the Central Hockey League released the results of their ‘Best of the CHL’ polling, Rush fans were named Fans of the Year yet again. In addition, the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center’s Ice Specialists were awarded Best Ice in the league for the third consecutive year. The team and their home facility have proven an unstoppable match for many reasons.

Beginning this weekend, Rush fans will have the ultimate opportunity to show exactly why they’ve earned themselves the coveted title. The Rush will face the Missouri Mavericks in a best-of-seven series during the opening round of the 2013 CHL playoffs. With a fourth place finish, the team has secured home ice advantage for the series, which begins Friday March 29^th and Saturday March 30^th. Fans are encouraged to show up sporting black, and ‘black out’ the Ice Arena for all home playoff games.

The Rush and Mavericks series will follow a ‘2-3-2’ format, with Rapid City hosting games #1 and #2 as well as #6 and #7 if necessary. The opening schedule is as follows:

Game 1:           Fri. March 29^th            Missouri at Rapid City, 7:05pm

Game 2:           Sat. March 30^th            Missouri at Rapid City, 7:05pm

Game 3:           Wed. April 3^rd             Rapid City at Missouri, 7:05pm

Game 4:           Fri. April 5^th                Rapid City at Missouri, 7:05pm

Game 5:           Sat. April 6^th                Rapid City at Missouri, 7:05pm

Game 6:           Tues. April 9^th             Missouri at Rapid City, 6:35pm

Game 7:           Wed. April 10^th           Missouri at Rapid City, 6:35pm

For all the loyal fans who want to show their support throughout the series, playoff packages are still available through the Rush office and begin at $150. Want to cheer on the home team with all your family and friends? Groups of 10 or more will receive a discounted price of $11, while individual tickets begin at $16. Or, experience the rush of a premium suite. Your entire group will enjoy incredible views of the arena and exclusive privileges that are reserved for our suite guests.

It’s official: the Rush for the Cup is back in full force. Gather your friends, family, and your Rush spirit, and come support everyone’s favorite team. It’s a premier event you don’t want to miss. Let’s show our challengers just what it takes to be a true Rush fan, and have an incredible time while we’re at it.

The Black Hills Home Show is continually an anticipated event within the Rapid City community. Featuring a wide variety of vendors who will showcase everything from the latest in additions and renovations to decorating inspiration and remodel options, everything for the home is addressed during this three day event. For those learning about products and looking to speak with industry professionals, there isn’t a more convenient time to visit everyone at once. Rather than shuffling store to store comparing similar products and services, the Home Show makes it easy to narrow down options and quickly advance your project.

The Home Show is put on by the Black Hills Home Builders Association, a not-for-profit professional trade organization. Working as an advocate for those directly and indirectly involved in the building industry, the organization focuses on creating an opportunity of home ownership for all. Representing builders who are involved in residential and commercial construction, remodeling, land development, and property management, the BHHBA is deeply rooted within our region’s growing industry.

The Home Show is the organization’s annual regional trade show, and is recognized as the largest Home Show in the country for a community of its size. Since 1973, the event has offered essential information and an opportunity for businesses to showcase their products and services. With an annual attendance of roughly 12,000 people over the course of the weekend, it’s no wonder why so many vendors take advantage of this exciting event.

Whether you’re ready to begin building a new home from the ground up or simply planning a DIY weekend project, the 2013 Black Hills Home Builders Home Show is the perfect place to find answers to all of your questions. Come talk to over 200 vendors, and find out how they can make your home an even better one. We promise: you and your home will not be disappointed.

The Black Hills Home Show will take place Friday, March 22^nd, noon to 8pm, Saturday, March 23^rd, 10am to 7pm, and Sunday, March 24^th, 10am to 5pm. Admission is $6.00 for adults, with children age 12 and under free.

This week, we were able to catch up with Wildfire Captain Tara “Danger Girl” Flanery.  She was more than happy to visit about her passion for the sport and its progress in Rapid City. “The roller derby revival started about 2001, and it’s now the fastest growing sport in the world,” explains Flanery, who has played for five seasons. “I played on a local team before. We saw the need for a competitive team in Rapid City, so we started the Black Hills Wildfire. Our team has been practicing for a year, and the season opener is our very first bout,” she says.

Indeed, roller derby has proven to be a legitimate sport that is currently vying for its place in the Olympics. Flanery has watched its popularity explode in recent years, especially in the Black Hills region. “We wanted to make a league, bringing players together from all the local teams,” she says. “This is the first of its kind, for sure.” The area is currently home to three teams, including the Spearfish Madhouse Madams, the Rushmore Rollerz, and the Lead Deadwood Aces n Sk8s. Together, they create the Black Hills roller derby.

For those who are unfamiliar with the sport, it’s one that requires a great deal of strategy and guts. Rosters can include fourteen girls who face off on the roller derby track. Each team consists of four “blockers” and one “jammer.” The goal of the jammer is to lap the pack of skaters as many times as she can, as she earns a point for each girl she laps. In the meantime, the opposing team will do all they can to hit her, knock her down, and hold her back. The two team jammers are in a race against each other, working hard to dodge and block hits as they skate at breakneck speeds. Each bout consists of two halves, each a half hour, and a twenty minute intermission.

Saturday’s event will feature an expo bout beginning at 6:30pm. During this matchup, newer players will face off in a mixer to get their feet wet and find out what the sport is all about. “Roller derby can be a very scary thing to do, especially if you’re playing against more experienced girls,” says Flanery. “It can be daunting, so the expo is a good opportunity for our fresh meat to get a taste of the experience. It will be a good contrast for the next bout featuring the Wildfire.”

Along with their commitment to the sport, the Wildfire also has goals to give back to their community. “Our mission is to eventually be able to do some fundraising,” says Flanery. “We need to get established first and gain some sponsors, and then we’ll be able to use our door money to donate to charity.”

Support Rapid City’s newest sporting event this Saturday, March 16^th beginning with an expo bout at 6:30pm. It’s an evening the entire family can enjoy, and kids ages 5 and under receive free admission. Eager fans can even bring their own camp chairs and enjoy ringside seating. See you at the roller derby!

Also this weekend, don’t miss the State A Boys Basketball Tournament, and the Rapid City Rush as they battle the Tulsa Oilers. Looking for a way to relax? Sit back and enjoy Strings in Concert, or stop by the Winter Extravaganza. You’ll find a huge variety of home based products and a great way to spend the weekend. It’s all happening at the Center of it All!