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Dakota Digest
Mon July 1, 2013
Sioux Falls Art Community Thrives
By Jaden Miller
The downtown area of South Dakota's largest city has come alive over the past several years. While attractions like the Empire Mall still draw large crowds, many developments have made downtown Sioux Falls a go-to place to shop, eat, and live. Part of this growth can be contributed to the growing appreciation for art, as well as new opportunities for artists to make a living in Sioux Falls.
Thu July 11, 2013
Main Street Square Sculpture Project Started
By Jim Kent
Work has begun at Main Street Square on the country's largest privately-funded public art project. Called "The Passage of Wind and Water", the massive sculpture is slated to take three to five years to complete and brings a world class artist and his talent to downtown Rapid City – in the next installment of our continuing series on the project.
Thu August 1, 2013
Documentary tells Frank Waln story with children's art
By Victoria Wicks
Frank Waln is a Rosebud hip hop artist who is gaining national acclaim. He is the subject of a documentary screened at the most recent Voices of the Heartland presentation at the Dahl Arts Center in Rapid City. At the screening, Native American Music Award winning flutist Cody Blackbird played and talked with the audience. In the lobby, display boards held original art created by students from Rosebud schools. For today's Dakota Digest, SDPB's Victoria Wicks talks with Blackbird and film producer Randy Ericksen to find out what it is about Frank Waln that inspires a documentary.
Tue August 13, 2013
National Music Museum
By Jeni Zeller
A South Dakota tuba landed in Seattle this month. The National Music museum at the University of South Dakota is home to the world's oldest known Wagner tuba.
The National Music Museum is working with the Seattle Opera to help celebrate the 200th birthdays of opera composers Richard Wagner and Giuseppe Verdi.
Sun August 25, 2013
NSU Unveils International Sculpture Garden
By Jenifer Jones
Northern State University begins a new academic year Monday. And this semester campus looks a little different. Five sculptures were unveiled last week, marking what some at NSU hope is only the beginning of an international sculpture garden.
Sun September 22, 2013
Art of Healing: Art Can Heal
By Cara Hetland
Art can heal. That might seem like an overstatement, but it's an idea backed by research that healthcare professionals are now embracing. Hospitals are no longer square sterile boxes with small windows. Instead they're being designed with patient input. From the art on the walls to the music in the background experts say positive surroundings help us get better. This is the first in a series where we explore The Art of Healing.
Tue September 24, 2013
Poets Gather At Main St. Square Sculpture Project
By Jim Kent
Community members gathered at Rapid City's Main Street Square to try their hand at ekphrasis: creating writing based on art. The subject was the Passage of Wind and Water sculpture project. The form of writing used was poetry.
It's a beautiful autumn afternoon in Rapid City as a dozen poets sit next to the expansive Passage of Wind and Water sculpture; their minds and pens at the ready.
Tue September 24, 2013
Art of Healing: Healing a Community
By Charles Michael Ray
August 2, 2011 is a day many Rapid City Police officers will never forget. It's the day Officers Nick Armstrong and Ryan McCandless were shot and killed during a routine traffic stop. Throughout the Art of Healing series we're hearing how art in hospitals can speed recovery and also how artists find healing from personal tragedy. Here we examine how art plays a role in helping an entire community heal in the wake of tragedy.
Wed September 25, 2013
Art of Healing: Quilts and Tiles
By Cara Hetland
Art is playing a larger role in healthcare. Administrators consider everything from the design of a building to the art inside as a way to create a positive healing experience. As the series Art of Healing continues we look at how healing is found in the act of creating art.
Thu September 26, 2013
Art of Healing: Art Therapy And Lifelong Healing
By Charles Michael Ray
The Art of Healing is the focus of a week-long series on SDPB. We've heard how positive artworks in hospitals can speed recovery. But, the act of creating art can also lead to healing and recovery.
Fri September 27, 2013
Art of Healing: Looking Good to Feel Good
By Cara Hetland
Feeling good about the way you look can impact healing. One woman makes it her mission to take a blank face of a cancer patient and make her beautiful.
Mon September 30, 2013
Sculpting 101 At Main Street Square
By Jim Kent
It's been three months since work began on the Passage of Wind and Water sculpture project at Rapid City's Main Street Square. During that period we've visited the location several times to speak with the artist about his work, but haven't explored how he actually creates his art. Today we take another tour of the sculpture site for the first of a two-part series calledToday we take another tour of the sculpture site for the first of a two-part series he's calling "Sculpting 101". "Sculpting 101".
Tue October 1, 2013
Sculpting 101 At Main Street Square Pt. 2
By Jim Kent
To be a sculptor you need two primary tools – a hammer and a chisel. To complete a sculpture with those tools you need talent, training, practice and most of all patience. Today we return to Rapid City's Main Street Square for more insight on how to create art from stone in "Sculpting 101".
Fri October 25, 2013
Learning To Be A DJ At The Dahl
By Jim Kent
If you're interested in music and have aspirations to be a musician, people might suggest you study guitar, piano or maybe a brass instrument. But studying "turntable" is unlikely to enter the conversation. Today we attend a class where students learn that being a DJ – or disc jockey - involves a lot more than just playing songs.
Disc jockeys. They're those usually upbeat, occasionally loud guys and gals who spin records – or now actually use computers, to get the songs we like to hear on the air waves.
Wed October 30, 2013
Searching For The Sundance Kid's Spirit
By Jim Kent
The Black Hills town of Deadwood has a reputation for ghostly encounters at all times of the year – not just on Halloween. So many, in fact, that it's almost hard to keep track of whose spirit is floating around Deadwood – and where. Today we go in search of a spirit whose presence no one has reported…yet.
Mount Moriah Cemetery…round midnight. The streets below are quiet after a weekend of Halloween revelry; an annual tradition in Deadwood.
Mon November 18, 2013
Sisseton Hosts Quebec Folk Musicians
By Jenifer Jones
For the next two years, Sisseton is South Dakota's Arts Midwest World Fest community. The program allows towns in nine Midwestern states to experience new cultures from across the globe. Canadian group Le Vent du Nord recently spent a week in the area, giving residents a taste of Quebec folk music.
Mon December 2, 2013
Club For Boys Celebrates 50 Years Of Service
By Jim Kent
Think of places where kids are hanging out on the streets, with nowhere to go and getting into trouble - and New York, Chicago or Los Angeles might come to mind. But that's the very situation that was taking place during the late 1950s and early 1960s in Rapid City – until an answer was found. Today we visit the Club for Boys on its 50th anniversary to talk to members.
Fri December 6, 2013
Flutist Cody Blackbird Walks In Two Worlds
By Victoria Wicks
Cody Blackbird is a nationally awarded Native flutist who walks in two worlds, thriving artistically while practicing a traditional way of being. He fuses indigenous beliefs with modern life in the same way as he incorporates traditional flute in contemporary music. For today's Dakota Digest, SDPB's Victoria Wicks sits down with Blackbird to hear his flute and his story.
Mon December 16, 2013
Masayuki Nagase - The Man Behind The Art
By Jim Kent
Over the summer, residents of and visitors to Rapid City had the opportunity to meet a world class sculptor and view his work at Main Street Square. But as with any artist, there's a real person behind the images they create – a person who's often not visible to the public.
Today we visit with sculptor Masayuki Nagase to learn about the man behind the art.
Fri December 20, 2013
Michael Martin Murphey & The Cowboys' Christmas Ball
By Jim Kent
Cowboys, cattle and Christmas; the words just flow together – especially in areas with a long history of men – and women – who wear chaps, ride horses and spend a good portion of their time working on a ranch in areas collectively known as "the West".
Today we visit with singer-songwriter Michael Martin Murphey to talk about one of the most enduring traditions of the American West: the Cowboys' Christmas Ball.
Thu January 2, 2014
It's (BLEEP) Jimi Hendrix
By Charles Michael Ray
A new piece of work in Rapid City's Art Alley involves 30 different artists on one mural.
Each artist received part of the image and a one square foot tile. They then reproduced that image on their own– in the end the tiles were put together like a puzzle.
The result is one picture–done by 30 different artists. The collaboration is called "Part of the Whole." SDPB's Charles Michael Ray has today's Dakota Digest.
Thu February 13, 2014
New Curricula Explores Sculpture Project
By Jim Kent
An innovative curricula has been developed to bring Rapid City's Main Street Square Sculpture project to local schools. The sculpture, called The Passage of Wind and Water, is an interpretation of the topography, wildlife and diverse cultures of the Black Hills and the Badlands. Created by an award-winning teacher, the program is being taught to local educators through a Teachers Learning Circle over a 3-month period.
Fri April 18, 2014
Swinging With Doc Severinsen
By Jim Kent
For the millions of viewers who watched The Tonight Show from the 1960s into the 1990s, the name "Doc Severinsen" was synonymous with that of Johnny Carson. We caught up with the legendary trumpeter during his recent Rapid City concert to talk about the old days and the new – and what keeps the 86-year old musician going.
Dakota Midday
Tue July 2, 2013
Exhibit Featuring Over 40 National Parks in Yankton
Rangers from Missouri National Recreational River will open the Dakota Territorial Capitol replica in Yankton Riverside Park from 10 am to 4 pm through Wednesday, July 3. This week's exhibit is "National Parks: America's Best Idea," a compilation of photos taken by park rangers and volunteers across the country, featuring over 40 of America's most famous and lesser-known special places. Discover the immense variety of the 400-plus sites that our Congress and presidents have set aside to preserve our natural wonders and cultural heritage. The capitol will also be open Friday, July 5 with the usual exhibits of historic Yankton photos and the model of the steamboat Far West. Visitors may also join John Rokosz, Missouri National Recreational River Interpretive Ranger, for a walk to the Meridian Bridge and a short talk on the natural or cultural history of the Missouri River at 11:30, 12:30, and 3:00.
Tue July 9, 2013
"I Invented The Modern Age: The Rise Of Henry Ford"
Every century or so, our republic has been redesigned by a new technology that changes the way we think: 170 years ago it was the railroad, for us it's the microprocessor, and in between them came Henry Ford's Model T. Ford was born the year of Gettysburg and died two years after the atomic bombs fell, personifying the tremendous technological changes in that span. Arriving in a steam-powered world, Ford saw the advantages of internal combustion and through the cost and time it took to build a car plummeted so that its own workers could easily afford one, thus creating the cycle of consumerism and mass production that we still experience to this day. Popular historian Richard Snow's book is a fresh, meticulous and entertaining account of Henry Ford, the Model T, and the remaking of American industry in the early 20th century.
Tue July 9, 2013
DAKOTA PLAYERS Offering Summer Programs
NASA's Space School Musical is the Next Frontier for DAKOTA PLAYERS as they partner with the South Dakota Discovery Center and NASA! Kids all over the Midwest are joining Hannah on a trip through the solar system in this ultra-cool, edu-taining, "hip-hopera" that is out of this world! Children will be moving and grooving along with the planets, moons, meteors, comets, asteroids and even some rockin' scientists as they sing, dance and serve up the freshest facts in the galaxy. Deb Workman, Managing Director for Dakota Players, and Jen Dickenson, Education & Outreach Director for Dakota Players, talk about the partnership and summer programs.
Wed July 10, 2013
"Glow Pop Art" Exhibit At Washington Pavilion
Rapid City artist Bob H. Miller's "Glow Pop Art" exhibit is at the Washington Pavilion's visual arts center in Sioux Falls through October 6th. This exhibit features black light paintings as well as "Scotchlife" reflective pieces. Miller's fascination with things that glow began with a seventh grade science project exploring ultraviolet light and geology. Miller is a native South Dakotan who has lived and worked here his entire professional life. He began studying art as an undergraduate at South Dakota State University in Brookings. In 1978, Miller completed his Master of Fine Arts degree at the University of North Dakota. His major emphasis was in Batik painting. American pop culture has been a strong influence throughout his career and Miller has worked in various other mediums including collage, painting and photography.
Thu July 11, 2013
Nebraska Historian Writes Book About Custer, South Dakota
Nebraska historian Jeff Barnes is the author of "The Great Plains Guide to Custer: 85 Forts, Fights and Other Sites." Some of the Custer sites covered in the book are Camp Sturgis near Yankton, Fort Randall at Pickstown and Custer's camps in the Black Hills. North Dakota sites include Fort Rice and Fort Abraham Lincoln, Custer's starting point on the trail to the Little Big Horn. A freelance writer and fifth-generation Nebraskan, Barnes is a former newspaper reporter and editor, board trustee of the Nebraska State Historical Society, past chairman of the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission and former marketing director for the Durham Museum in Omaha. He's currently working on "The Great Plains Guide to Buffalo Bill."
Thu July 11, 2013
Pianist/Composer Daniel May
Augustana alumni Daniel May and his brother, Benjamin May, present "An Evening of Jazz" at 7:30 pm this Friday at Kresge Recital Hall. Daniel May had a very musical upbringing - both of his parents were his music teachers in Sioux Falls. May studied music composition at the University of Connecticut, where he received a Master's degree in music composition and music theory. He then went to Ithaca, New York, to study music composition at Cornell University. After earning a Doctor of Musical Arts degree composer for feature films, television and, most notably, IMAX films. Career highlights include his score to the award-winning IMAX film Everest. In his film scores, Daniel has collaborated with George Harrison (Everest), Sting (The Living Seas and Dolphins), Lindsay Buckingham (Adventures in Wild California), and The Moody Blues (Journey into Amazing Caves). Additionally, May is a jazz pianist and has recorded extensively with some of the world's foremost jazz artists. During his career, May has produced and recorded more than 50 CD projects.
Tue July 16, 2013
South Dakota Magazine Featuring Adventures From The Sky
Bernie Hunhoff, publisher of South Dakota Magazine, and Vermillion pilot Denny Martens talk about the latest issue of South Dakota Magazine. The cover story in the July/August issue of South Dakota Magazine, "South Dakota's Wild Blue Yonder," is devoted to the adventures in the state's skies in the years since the first recorded flight in South Dakota on March 9, 1911. Denny Martens flew for the University of South Dakota for 41 years and writes about the night his plane hit a flock of snow geese.
Tue July 16, 2013
Dakota State University Professor Reinterprets Stephen Foster
"Oh! Susanna" was written over 160 years ago, but it remains instantly recognizable to just about any American. In a new CD released today, Madison musician Nathan Edwards reinterprets "Oh! Susanna" and seven other songs by the man often referred to as the "Father of American Music," Stephen Foster. Raised in Wisconsin, Nathan Edwards is currently assistant professor of audio technology in the digital arts and design program at Dakota State University.
Wed July 17, 2013
"The Friendly Hour"
Caryl Crozier was the catalyst for the play, "The Friendly Hour," which is receiving its South Dakota premiere by the Northern Fort Playhouse. Crozier compiled the notes of Beresford's Friendly Hour Club, kept by her mother and main character, Dorcas, of the play. Crozier was joined on Dakota Midday by Dan Yurgaitis, artistic director for teh playhouse and professor of theater at Northern State University in Aberdeen. Go to www.friendlyhourclub.com and www.northernfortplayhouse.com for more information.
Thu July 18, 2013
Saxophonist Chris Borchardt
The Sioux Falls Jazz and Blues Society's JazzFest runs Thursday through Saturday at Yankton Trail Park in Sioux Falls. All concerts are free to attend. Chris Borchardt, a recent Augustana College graduate with a degree in Music Education, returns to JazzFest Friday night. The saxophonist is scheduled to play the second stage on Friday at 6:00 p.m. He joined Dakota Midday from SDPB's studios at the University of Sioux Falls.
Mon July 22, 2013
Early Photography Of Dakota Territory Displayed In Sioux Falls
Former Minnehaha County Commissioner Robert Kolbe is known as the one to call if your antique clock needs repair or if you find an old bottle in your backyard. He's also an expert on early photography in Dakota Territory, co-author of "They Captured the Moment: Dakota Photographers, 1853-1920," editor of "Minnehaha County Historical & Biographical Sketches," and an appraiser of historical books, documents, and photos. This summer the Center for Western Studies at Augustana College in Sioux Falls is featuring "Dakota Territory Plains and Mountains: Images from the Robert Kolbe Collection." This gallery exhibit, on display through September 7, celebrates our heritage through a series of historic photographs from Kolbe's private collection with images as large as six feet wide. Kolbe is currently conducting research for a new book on stereographic views of the Black Hills Gold Rush, 1875-1879, and planning a second edition of "They Captured the Moment."
Tue July 23, 2013
"Changing Lands, Changing Hands"
As older farmers retire, their land will change hands, but who takes over and how that happens will reshape the agriculture industry. NET News and Harvest Public Media examine changing trends in land ownership and what they mean to farm families and rural communities in "Changing Lands, Changing Hands," airing Friday at 9:00 pm Central on SDPB-TV. In addition to the 30-minute television special, a five-part radio series airs daily on SDPB Radio this week addressing issues such as aging farmers, transferring land, baby boomers beginning to farm, how the aging of rural America changes towns and communities and what young people think about farming. NET News also visits with agricultural economists, psychologists and attorneys who advise farmers of all ages about farming, owning land and passing it along to the next generation of farmers.
Tue July 23, 2013
Dakota Sky Festival Underway In Sioux Falls
Paul Sanchez is the Founder and Artistic Director of the Dakota Sky International Piano Festival in Sioux Falls and Andrew Reinartz is the Executive Director. The Dakota Sky Festival's Seventh Annual Season takes place from July 20 - August 3 at the Belbas Center of the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls. During the two weeks, there are 7 evening recitals, 4 free Children's Concerts, 4 free-lunch-time seminars, and a Young Artist Program, all featuring some of the world's foremost pianists and educators. To celebrate their seventh season, the closing gala performance will feature Van Cliburn Gold Medalist Jose Feghali. The Spotlight Series will feature two unique performances. The first is Tony Caramia, a jazz and classical pianist who will perform solo and will be joined later in the program by Allison Nash on voice and Andrew Reinartz on bass. The series concludes with a chamber music recital featuring pianists Lucille Chung and Peter Klimo joining John Pennington and Ryun Louie, two percussionists from the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra. The Dakota Sky Young Artist Program, now in its third year, features auditioned students from around the country who come to Sioux Falls to participate in private lessons, master classes, seminars, and discussion sessions with festival staff and guest artists. They also have two performance opportunities, which are free and open to the public. The Young Artists Program is the first and only of its kind in the area, furthering their goal to be a center for music education in the region.
Wed July 24, 2013
"Mr. Steve" Making His Way To Sioux Falls
"Mr. Steve" is appearing at Family Fun Fest at the W.H. Lyons Fairgrounds this Saturday at 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. Steve Roslonek of SteveSongs has been writing and performing his award-winning music for kids and families for the past eleven years. Mr. Steve blends participatory songs, clever stories and great melodies to create what the Boston Globe called "not just a musical journey but an entertaining, interactive and educational role." In May 2008, Roslonek took on the exciting new role of "Mr. Steve," cohost of the PBS Kids preschool destination that features the popular shows Curious George, Clifford the Big Red Dog, Dragon Tales, and Super Why.
Thu July 25, 2013
"V" - The Gypsy Cowbelle
Living for fourteen years at a remote homestead ranch in Wyoming afforded Miss "V" the first-hand understanding of the western way of life that many read, write and sing about, but few have actually come to know. Her original songs reflect her experiences at the ranch, as well as depicting characters who rode the range before her time. The Gypsy Cowbelle brings her stories to life with her homemade banjo, guitar and rich vocals that create a comfortable campfire ambience on any stage. Her experiences, free spirit, clever lyricism and classic rhythms on the guitar and her homemade banjo, blend together to create her signature "Genuine Cowbilly" music. This Gypsy Cowbelle and her music possess a universal and timeless allure that has charmed fans from coffee houses and campfires to festivals and honkytonks across America for nearly two decades. She's performing at the Prairie Berry Winery on Friday evening and at the Cowboy Back Bar in Bell Fourche on Saturday during the Day of the Cowboy celebration. To learn more about her music, visit her website at www.gypsycowbelle.com.
Tue July 30, 2013
"Downtowns," An Exhibit On The Homeless
Photographer Kirk Jordan's exhibit, "Downtowns," featuring images of homeless people, opens today at the Matthews Opera House and Art Center in Spearfish and runs through August 24th. An opening exhibition is this Friday from 5:30-7:30. Growing up in Spearfish with a strong love of music, photography and the movies, Kirk Jordan moved to California. He played music in Hollywood clubs and became a regular stand-up comedy performer at The Comedy Store on the Sunset Strip. This exposure led to acting roles in several films and TV shows in the 1990s, including "Wings", "Seinfeld", "Chaplin", "Dave", and "In the Line of Fire." Jordan was also working with the Los Angeles Unified School District as a substitute teacher, and in 1996 he took an offer for a full-time gig teaching 3rd grade. In 2004, Jordan founded CityMuse, a non-profit corporation designed to teach piano to elementary school students after school. Jordan is in pre-production for his documentary film, "Black Hills - Stripped", focusing on strip mining in his native South Dakota.
Wed July 31, 2013
Celebration Of Meldrum Park Mural Tonight
Dave Loewenstein and Ashley Laird are mural artists from Lawrence, Kansas, who've been creating a mural in Sioux Falls' Whittier neighborhood's Meldrum Park. They attended community meetings and visited public schools in Sioux Falls to understand the international character of the neighborhood earlier this year before starting work on the mural. Tonight at 6, the public is invited to help celebrate Meldrum Park's incredible new 150 foot long mural. Mayor Mike Huether and other distinguished guests will speak. The mural is located at the corner of 6th & Lewis. Initiated by Whittier Middle School students in teacher Lela Himmerich's class in 2011, this community-based project is a true collaborative effort. Over the last year, visiting artists, Loewenstein, Laird, and Nate Buchholz, met with more than one hundred neighborhood residents and area students groups do research, develop the images and paint the mural. The project is being coordinated by the Sioux Falls Arts Council and is supported by an "Our Town" grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Thu August 1, 2013
"Art Inside Out" Show At The Dahl
Pepper Massey, Executive Director of the Dahl Arts Center in Rapid City, and graffiti artist Tyler Read who is also the Arts Education co-director at the Dahl, visit about the "Art Inside Out" show this Saturday. As the name implies, this festival aims to reverse the ways we typically think about art. In order to accomplish this, the Rapid City Arts Council and Dahl will, for one fun-filled day, turn itself completely inside out, moving art from the quiet, reverent galleries inside the building, into the bright bustling streets of Rapid City. Massey and Read talk about some diverse kinds of art, including Artist Trading Cards, urban Plein Air and community mural and sculpture. Most importantly, they ask YOU to become the artists and curators, by bringing your own art to display and by getting involved in making art.
Thu August 1, 2013
Behind The Scenes Of Blenko Glass
Started by William J. Blenko in 1921, the company's products have become quite popular - the White House even has a collection of Blenko table ware which is used periodically. SDPB is hosting a Blenko Glass reception Sunday from 3:00-5:00 pm at the Sioux Falls Design Center. Glass will be on display and for sale. Everyone is welcome, and Katie Trippe, Vice President of Blenko Glass, will be in Sioux Falls for the reception.
Tue August 6, 2013
Sioux Falls Native Performing An Autobiographical Comedy
Sioux Falls native Leslye Orr returns home with a new autobiographical comedy, "What I Thought I Saw: Random Acts of Blindness," on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. in the Belbas Theater at the Washington Pavilion. "What I Thought I Saw: Random Acts of Blindness" is a comedic look at the one-eyed adventures of Orr, and her off-kilter view of life in a 3-D world. Orr, who is legally blind, humorously chronicles the visual challenges she faces, and the inspiring travels and wacky mishaps she has had as a performer and advocate for people with disabilities. She also tells stories of spending her childhood in thick glasses, growing up as one of eight children in Sioux Falls, dealing with high school pranksters in the seventies, learning to do the craziest sound effects, and how she survived taking a big leap of faith as a wannabe performer in Minneapolis.
Thu August 8, 2013
FRAMED Exhibit Features Alive Art
On Saturday, from noon to 4:00 p.m., art will come alive during [FRAMED] at the Washington Pavilion. The Visual Arts Center will combine art, theater and dance to create [FRAMED] Living Art - a free, outdoor display of art history. The event will be held in the Nelson Amphitheater and Paladino-Holm Sculpture Garden at the Washington Pavilion. [FRAMED] Living Art will include seven different paintings put to life by 16 volunteers. Five frames will include individuals painted, dressed and posed as characters from famous paintings. The remaining two frames will hold performances by Dakota Academy of Performing Arts (DAPA) and Main Stage Ballet & Dance Academy, each with an ending pose that creates a painting. Artists represented at [FRAMED] include Roy Lichtenstein, Edgar Degas, Frida Kahlo, George Seurat, Leonardo da Vinci, Johannes Vermeer and Vincent van Gogh.
Mon August 12, 2013
SD Basketball Family To Compete On "America's Got Talent"
A South Dakota family is showing their unicycle-riding, basketball-spinning skills to millions of Americans across the nation. The Crevier family from Elkton are competing on the third round of the television program "America's Got Talent," broadcasting live tomorrow evening from Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Bruce Crevier, his wife Diane and their twelve children travel the country and the world with their inspirational act, "Champions Forever." Bruce Crevier can spin as many as twenty-one basketballs at one time and has several Guinness World Records for basketball spinning. The Creviers arrived in New York City last week in their 45-foot family bus and have been busy rehearsing and practicing. Bruce Crevier talks about the family's experience.
Tue August 13, 2013
"Outlaw Tales Of South Dakota"
For the last 150 years, a rag-tag collection of cop-killers, common crooks, muggers and their molls have made their way across the vast expanses of South Dakota's Great Plains. It remains one of the last best places to hide. Author Tom Griffith invites readers on a ride through yesteryear, when outlaws roamed the prairies and hid out in the Black Hills, tempting fate and frequently taking their last breath at the end of a rope or the wrong end of a loaded gun. Griffith has written and co-authored more than 40 books for major publishers and his feature writing has appeared in magazines and newspapers throughout the world. He currently writes for the Rapid City Journal. Griffith is presenting this week's Picnic on the Lawn lecture at the Historic Adams House on Friday at noon MT.
Wed August 14, 2013
The Rawlins Piano Trio's New CD
"Attracting Opposites: New Music for Piano Trio" is the latest CD released by the internationally-acclaimed University of South Dakota Rawlins Piano Trio. Featuring five works commissioned by the Trio, the CD was recorded in June 2012 for the Azica label and is distributed by Naxos. The five award-winning composers of the works on the new CD are Emma Lou Diemer, James Lentini, Timothy Hoekman, Miguel Roig-Francoli and Stephen Yarbrough. Yarbrough served on the faculty at USD until his retirement in 2011 while "Yeats Songs" by Timothy Hoekman features USD alumna and soprano Carla Connors. Since its founding in 1987, the Rawlins Piano Trio has distinguished itself as a dynamic group of performers, teachers and scholars. The ensemble performs regularly throughout the United States and abroad, including recent concert and teaching tours throughout Taiwan, Panama and South Korea. Eunho Kim, Susan Keith Gray and Marie-Elaine Gagnon of the Rawlins Piano Trio discuss their new CD.
Tue August 20, 2013
"Wild Bill Hickok" Exhibit Displaying In Rapid City
The Journey Museum is hosting a traveling exhibit on Wild Bill Hickok, provided courtesy of the Deadwood Historic Preservation Commission. The "Wild Bill Hickok: His Life and Times" exhibit is on display in the hallway leading from the museum lobby to the Wells Fargo Theatre. It runs through the month of August. The exhibit consists of framed photos and artifacts, supporting information, gathered in a series of 3-ring binders and a brochure with a timeline providing details about Hickok's life. The exhibit was provided to the museum by Mike Runge, archivist with the Deadwood Historic Preservation Commission, who discusses the exhibit.
Wed August 21, 2013
"Imperfect Harmony"
Life can be hard. Battles continue to rage all around us, and by midlife many of us have had our share of personal disappointments. In her book, "Imperfect Harmony: Finding Happiness Singing With Others," Stacy Horn tells of her moving story of forgetting all that in the weekly ritual of singing some of the greatest music humanity has every produced. She admits that she doesn't have a great voice, but like thousands of other amateur chorus members throughout the world, singing together with other people makes her happy. Horn's commentaries have been heard on NPR's All Things Considered.
Thu August 22, 2013
Live Rock Garden Tour Show Friday
Rock Garden Tour presents a live performance of "High, Wide and Handsome - Stories of Some South Dakotans That Made It Big" Friday at 7:00 p.m. at the Orpheum Theater in Sioux Falls. Rock Garden Tour is a radio show that celebrates the avant-gardeners; those that work the land, those that play free range rock and roll and those who that live in South Dakota (more or less)! Rock Garden Tour can be heard the last Saturday of every month at 8:00 p.m. on SDPB Radio. Ted "Flower Man" Heeren previewed Friday night's live program on Dakota Midday.
Mon August 26, 2013
Marty Robbins & Faron Young Biographer
Diane Diekman visited about country music legends Marty Robbins and Faron Young. Diekman is the author of "Twentieth Century Drifter: The Life of Marty Robbins" and "Live Fast, Love Hard: The Faron Young Story," both published by the University of Illinois Press. Diekman is in LeMars, Iowa, Wednesday for a festival and book signing. She's also appearing at the South Dakota State Fair in Huron on Friday to give a talk before a Sherwin Linton show. Robbins received the Academy of Country Music's Man of the Decade Award in 1970. Young was posthumously inducted into the Country Music Hall.
Wed August 28, 2013
The White Wall Sessions
Jeff Zueger, Executive Director of the White Wall Sessions, talks about the new music series that debuts next month on KELO-TV. Many regional musical artists have already recorded a session for the first season of the White Wall Sessions and the project is creating quite a buzz. Zueger also discusses the concept and who viewers can expect to see during the White Wall Sessions' first season.
Wed August 28, 2013
The Tinder Box
The Sioux Falls band, The Tinder Box, recorded a set for the White Wall Sessions' first season. The Tinder Box, formed in 2010 while members were attending South Dakota State University, offer a uniquely cohesive blend of folk, blues and bluegrass. Brothers Chad Konrad and Dominic Osterloh and their cousin, Jon Wallner, make up The Tinder Box.
Thu August 29, 2013
"Thunder Over Dakota"
"Thunder Over Dakota: The History of Ellsworth Air Force Base 1941-2011" is the latest book by Lt. Col. George Larson (USAF-Ret.). Larson returned to Dakota Midday to discuss his research about Ellsworth's units, planes, personnel and place in history.
Fri August 30, 2013
"Saving Faith" And "The Price Of Guilt"
Patrick Garry, professor of law at the University of South Dakota School of Law, received a grand prize honorable mention award at the 2013 Global Book Contest for his mystery novel, " Saving Faith." Garry was also a finalist in the literary fiction category of the 2013 Beverly Hills Book Awards for his novel, "The Price of Guilt," and he was a finalist for a 2013 International Book Award for his book "A Faith Brief: A Lawyer's Argument for Why Faith Prevails Over Doubt." A two-time recipient of the President's Awards for Research Excellence at USD (2008 for New or Mid-Career Faculty and 2011 for Established Faculty), Garry is currently working on a book to be published by Oxford University Press. His recent book, "Limited Government and the Bill of Rights" published July 2012, has just been chosen by an academic journal to be featured in an upcoming symposium.
Fri August 30, 2013
Remembering Irish Poet Seamus Heaney
One of the most important poets of the 20th century died today. Seamus Heaney, a widely celebrated Irish poet who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1995, died at a hospital in Dublin after a short illness. He was 74. Augustana College writer-in-residence and poet Patrick Hicks met Seamus Heaney a few times when he was living in Northern Ireland and he talks about the poet's accomplishments.
Fri August 30, 2013
Sioux Falls Author Releases Book Of Nineteen Stories
Brian Bieber has just released his first book of short stories, "Nickel Plated Gold." The nineteen pieces collected in "Nickel Plated Gold" cover a wide tonal spectrum, from absurd ("How I Would Fight Certain Animals") to contemplative ("Love Life"). Bieber's writing has been featured multiple times on McSweeney's Internet Tendency, and he's the recipient of SASE/Jerome Foundation and South Dakota Arts Council grants. He studied creative writing at the University of Minnesota under humorist Garrison Keillor, memoirists Patricia Hampl and Mary Winstead, and noted poet Michael Dennis Browne.
Wed September 4, 2013
"Flying Kites Through Keyholes"
The criminal justice system in South Dakota is taking on major reforms. We hear from a young South Dakota author who just completed a book on her time spent working in San Quentin prison and other facilities in the California justice system. The book also includes personal stories of her younger brother's dealings with the South Dakota justice system. SDPB's Charles Michael Ray speaks with Danica Von Hartwig about her new book "Flying Kites Through Keyholes."
Thu September 5, 2013
Dakota Midday: The Fifty Fingers of the 5 Browns
On Monday, September 9 in Brookings, South Dakota State University celebrates the tenth anniversary of its Performing Arts Center with a concert by the all-sibling piano ensemble, the 5 Browns. Ryan, Melody, Gregory, Deondra and Desirae Brown range in age from 27 to 34 and over the past decade it's been their goal to bring classical music to wider audiences through dynamic, energetic multi-piano performances. This fall the 5 Browns make their Carnegie Hall debut and release a live recording of a new 10-hand arrangement of Stravinsky's "Rite of Spring." Deondra and Ryan joined Dakota Midday before a practice session with the other three Browns.
Thu September 5, 2013
The Best Of JazzFest
SDPB-TV airs The Best of JazzFest Saturday night at 7:00 p.m. Central. The special includes several artists who performed in July at JazzFest in Sioux Falls, presented by the Sioux Falls Jazz and Blues Society, including Sheryl Crow, North Mississippi Allstars and Dr. John. SDPB-TV producer Kevin Patten and SFJB Executive Director Rob Joyce previewed the special and visited about the success of JazzFest 2013.
Thu September 12, 2013
Examining The GED
Emily Hanford, co-host of "Second Chance Diploma: Examining the GED," discussed the American Radioworks program that's airing on SDPB Radio on Monday, September 16th at noon Central.
Thu September 12, 2013
Exhibit Celebrates Life Of SD Artist
The Eide/Dalrymple Gallery and the Center for Western Studies presents "Why Are We: Carl Grupp - A Retrospective of a Life Half Finished." The installment opens today and runs through Saturday, October 12, in the Eide/Dalrymple Gallery. The exhibition celebrates the prolific life of Professor Emeritus of Art Carl Grupp, one of South Dakota's preeminent living artists. 120 works, many of which have never before been displayed, can be viewed. While including some of Grupp's most iconic works - from large-scale watercolor mountains to surrealistic still-lifes - the installment also features works that Grupp had considered "half-finished" or too experimental to show. For more information, go to www.carlgrupp.com.
Thu September 12, 2013
Elizabeth Doyle Performing In Sioux Falls
Elizabeth Doyle, vocalist/pianist/songwriter from the Chicago area, returns to her roots in Sioux Falls to perform at the Icon Lounge in a fundraiser for the George B. German Music Archives. Doyle has been featured on NPR's Piano Jazz and has been a mainstay in the Chicago jazz scene for several decades. In recent years, she has concentrated on special shows, including the music of Peggy Lee and a performance of the music of the Prohibition.
Tue September 17, 2013
Arts And The Common Core Standards
Scott Jones, Senior Associate for Research and Policy, Arts Education Partnership, Council of Chief State School Officers, and San Shaw, Science, Social Studies and Fine Arts Specialist, South Dakota Department of Education - Division of Curriculum, Career and Technical Education, talked about arts and the common core standards of education. At AEP, Scott Jones oversees the development of research and policy initiatives, including the continued expansion of ArtsEdSearch and the State Policy Database as well as the release of new publications exploring the importance of an arts education.
Tue September 17, 2013
Advocating For The Arts Nationally And Locally
Jonathan Katz, chief executive officer of the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies (NASAA), and Theresa Cameron, Local Arts Agency Services Program Manager for Americans for the Arts, talked about advocating for the arts nationally and locally. Dr. Katz serves as one of the nation's primary spokespersons on behalf of public support for the arts and cultural activities. The 56 state and jurisdictional arts agencies of the United States created NASAA as their vehicle for arts policy development, advocacy, leadership development, research, information and communication.
Tue September 17, 2013
Craig Howe At The SD State Arts Conference
Craig Howe earned a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan, and taught at Oglala Lakota College, Washington University in Saint Louis, Grinnell College, the University of Michigan, and the University of Saskatchewan. Howe served as Deputy Assistant Director for Cultural Resources of the National Museum of the American Indian at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., and Director of the D'Arcy McNickle Center for American Indian History at the Newberry Library in Chicago.
Wed September 18, 2013
Peter Story
Peter Story has appeared on NPR's The Moth Radio Hour (heard Sunday nights at 11 Central on SDPB Radio). Story is in Sioux Falls at the Orpheum Theater doing his one man show "Men are From Mars - Women are From Venus Live," based on the No. 1 best-selling book of the same name by John Gray.
Thu September 19, 2013
Storycorps Heading To Rapid City
The StoryCorps Mobile Booth is at Main Street Square in Rapid City from September 20-October 16th. StoryCorps' mission is to provide people of all backgrounds and beliefs with the opportunity to record, preserve, and share their stories. Each week, millions of Americans listen to StoryCorps' award-winning broadcasts on NPR's Morning Edition. Founded in 2003 by award winning documentary producer and MacArthur "Genius" Grant recipient Dave Isay, StoryCorps aims to create a growing portrait of who we are as Americans.
Thu September 19, 2013
The 10th Anniversary Of The Reddmen
Tomorrow marks the 10th anniversary of the debut release of The Reddmen. The Reddmen was a Black Hills punk/rock band that gained national acclaim with music featured on TV programs like Grey's Anatomy while still sticking to their independent approach. The band formed in 1995 and played its final show in August 2011. The frontman of the Reddmen was J. Waylon Porcupine, who got his start playing in Rapid City's underground punk scene.
Fri September 20, 2013
SD Festival Of Books: Bill Heavey
Bill Heavey's first published article, about teaching children how to write poetry, was probably the high point of his career. He then descended into travel writing, profiles, and finally, first person narrative. He is an editor-at-large for Field & Stream and also writes the back page column, "A Sportsman's Life." His books include If You Didn't Bring Jerky, What Did I Just Eat? and It's Only Slow Food Until You Try to Eat It: Misadventures of a Suburban Hunter-Gatherer, which chronicles his attempts at closing the distance between himself and his food.
Fri September 20, 2013
Michael Dirda
Michael Dirda, a weekly book columnist for The Washington Post, is the author of the memoir An Open Book and of four collections of essays. His latest book, On Conan Doyle, won the 2012 Edgar Award for the best biographical/critical work of the year from the Mystery Writers of America. A lifelong fan of the Sherlock Holmes adventures, Dirda belongs to The Baker Street Irregulars. On Conan Doyle is a personal introduction to Holmes's creator, as well as an insider's account of the activities and scholarship of The Baker Street Irregulars.
Fri September 20, 2013
Karen Hall
Karen Hall, environmental engineer and writer, grew up in Fargo and later attended the University of Washington in Seattle before finishing her education at the University of Minnesota. She lives with her husband Jeff Nelsen near Rapid City. Her first Hannah Morrison mystery, Unreasonable Risk, a thriller about sabotage in an oil refinery, was published in 2006 and the second in the series, Through Dark Spaces, set in South Dakota's gold mining industry, followed in 2012.
Mon September 23, 2013
Arley Fadness
Arley Fadness is signing copies of his recently published book "Balloons Aloft: Flying South Dakota Skies" from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and from 6-7:30 p.m. today (9/23) at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. He was trained as a draftsman at the Boeing Airplane Company in Seattle while he went to college. He applied for a job and was hired as a draftsman by Ed Yost. Yost invented the modern hot air balloon and is considered the Father of the Modern Hot Air Balloon.
Tue September 24, 2013
Dust Of War
South Dakota filmmaker Andrew Kightlinger and actor Bates Wilder discussed the making of Dust of War. Kightlinger and Luke Schuetzle filmed most of the feature-length post-apocalyptic story near Pierre. The movie is featured at this year's South Dakota Film Festival, September 26-29, at Capitol Theatre in downtown Aberdeen.
Wed September 25, 2013
Naj Wikoff
Naj Wikoff, a past president of the Society for the Arts in Healthcare and the founder of Creative Healing Connections, is a visual artists and arts manager who has been working in the field of arts and health since 1986, then as director of Arts & Productions for the Cathedral St. John the Divine.
Thu September 26, 2013
The Most Heard Voice On Public Radio
For many years, listeners across the country have heard Frank Tavares dozens of times a day as the man who says "Support for NPR comes from NPR member stations...", announcing the funding credits after every national news and information program. His new book, "The Man Who Built Boxes," showcases his unique and masterful story-telling abilities with twelve stories, and a remarkable cast of complex, quirky characters tangled up in the limits they've put on their lives.
Fri September 27, 2013
Experts And Artists Say Art Heals
The art in the Art of Healing is the music drifting throughout a hospital while you're waiting for the results of a biopsy. It's also a shared experience through the words of a poet. And it's even the pictures that hang on the wall and also how the building is designed.
Fri September 27, 2013
Words Are Also An Art Of Healing
When most people think of art they might think of a painting on a wall or a piece of music. But art can also mean writing. Words are an inspiration and also a sense of healing for those who write and those who read. In this segment we hear the written words of Kristine Stewert, SDSU Associate Professor of English; Patrick Hicks, Writer in Residence at Augustana College and Cowboy Poet Kip Sorlie and learn how writing helps them heal.
Fri September 27, 2013
Music Helps Couple With Breast Cancer
The will to fight, the triumphant battle, the solitude of finding happy place can be reached through music. We learn about the personal struggle with cancer of a local musician and his wife. Chris and Susan Hill discuss how music helps them as a couple while Susan battles breast cancer.
Tue October 1, 2013
Former Dean Of USD Passes Away
South Dakota artist and former USD Dean John A. Day has died at the age of 74. John A. Day is the former Chair of the Department of Art and former Dean of the College of Fine Arts. Day joined the University of South Dakota in 1976 as Chair of the Department of Art and a year later founded the University Art Galleries. The main exhibition gallery of the University Art Galleries in the Warren M. Lee Center for Fine Arts is named in his honor. Day's many accomplishments included protecting and enhancing the legacy of South Dakota artist Oscar Howe.
Thu October 3, 2013
2013 Mines Medal Winner
Dr. Anna Balazs from the University of Pittsburgh is the 2013 Mines Medal winner. This year marks the 5th annual medal given by the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. She's giving a talk on her research as part of an awards ceremony Thursday evening (10/3) at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center. Dr. Balazs and a team of researchers have made significant contributions to the area of self-healing materials. She collaborates with researchers working in Regenerative Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh.
Thu October 3, 2013
Jenn Rawling And Basho Parks
Jenn Rawling and Basho Parks met in 2010 in Portland, Oregon. Common loves and tribulations propelled them to become an inseparable team both on and offstage. Together they blend and harmonize their way through the landscapes of their songs with an invigorating, enthralling energy. Wisconsin-born Rawling grew up in a working class town called Sheboygan. Midwestern grit with a heart of gold, songwriter/guitarist and vintage American folk singer Rawling composes highly melodic songs from fascinating scraps of images and phrases.
Wed October 9, 2013
Painting Donation Given To Museum
A generous donor has given three oil paintings by early 20th century Pennsylvania painter Christian Walter to the Smith-Zimmermann Museum in Madison with the hope the Museum can sell the works and use the proceeds for facility upgrades. Rehfeld's Gallery in downtown Sioux Falls has agreed to display the paintings in order to make them viewable to potential buyers. The three paintings are rural landscape scenes. Their subject matter is unusual compared to the work Christian Walter is known for at Penn State's Earth and Mineral Sciences Museum where one of the largest collections of his work.
Thu October 10, 2013
The River Liffey Boys
The River Liffey Boys perform tomorrow night at the Dahl Arts Center in Rapid City as part of their Emerging Artist Series. The River Liffey Boys, based out of Rapid City, play a blend of traditional Irish, bluegrass and original music. They call themselves a "blue-Irish-grass" band. Members are Peter Roth (guitar, vocals, Bodhran and washboard), Bruce Wiens (guitar,banjitar and vocals), Brian Hemen (fiddle and mandolin) and Nick Huntington (banjo, bass and vocals). Their concert at the Dahl is being recorded for a future episode of No Cover, No Minimum Radio.
Tue October 15, 2013
"My Ranching Life"
Along I-90 near New Underwood, there's a billboard that's not advertising any Black Hills attractions. It's simply a giant, panoramic photograph of a herd of cattle. The billboard is a part of photographer Jean Laughton's "My Ranching Life" project. Since 2003, she has been living a life cowboying and photographing ranch work from horseback on the Quarter Circle XL Ranch south of Belvidere. It changed Laughton's life drastically, prompting the start of her long term photographic series, "My Ranching Life."
Wed October 16, 2013
David Jal Recollects Civil War Days In Sudan
David Jal was born and raised in Northeast Africa in the Dunyal Village in Southern Sudan with dreams of becoming a geography teacher. As civil war intensified, he fled at the age of ten with his dream of teaching replaced by the desire of surviving. He spent nearly ten years in refugee camps in East Africa. Jal lived in the Itang Refugee Camp in Ethiopia from 1987 to 1992, and in the Walda, Ifo and Kakuma Refugee Camps in Kenya from 1992 to 1995. In 1994, he was approved to be resettled in the United States and was able to come as a refugee in 1995. He's co-author of "David's Journey."
Thu October 17, 2013
Paul Larson's CD Release
Deadwood singer/songwriter Paul Larson performs Friday night at the Historic Homestake Opera House in Lead as part of a CD release party and concert. Larson is being joined by Black Hills musician Kenny Putnam and Sioux Falls musician Boyd Bristow. The show also serves as a benefit for the Opera House's Stage Design Fund. Larson's new CD is dedicated to the late Ricky Jacobsen. Paul Larson discussed his new CD release titled, "Home." Learn more about Paul Larson's music at www.plcowboymusic.com.
Mon October 21, 2013
Historian Joe Amato
In a series of essays published in the journal Historically Speaking, Joe Amato explores place and American history. "Although never entirely static and fixed, traditional places are shaped by recurrent seasons and structured by age-long customs, practices, and beliefs. They host the regular, the normal, the repeated, and the local—what we call the ordinary and every day," said Amato, emeritus professor of history and dean of local and regional history at Southwest Minnesota State University and humanist advisor for the Society for the Study of Local and Regional History.
Wed October 23, 2013
Masterpiece Of Lakota Sculpture Heading To Europe
Gaylord Torrence, senior curator of Indian Art at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, is curator of the international traveling exhibition "The Plains Indians: Artists of Earth and Sky." The exhibit opens in April 2014 in Paris and then travels to Kansas City and New York City. Among the pieces featured in the exhibition is the Sioux Horse Effigy Stick, which also serves as the logo of the South Dakota State Historical Society.
Thu October 24, 2013
"Dear Unforgettable Brother"
Pursuing a brighter future in the United States, Lars Stavig left his family in Norway and journeyed to the prairies of Dakota Territory. Though their paths never cross again, he and his brother continued to write, sharing their experiences across the sea. Over 130 years have passed since Lars Stavig first wrote home to Knut Stavig. Like the lives their authors lived, their letters reflect the challenges faced by families in both Norway and America.
Wed October 30, 2013
Art Instructor Helps To Restore Opera House
Built nearly a century ago, the Homestake Opera House in Lead was the center of community life providing residents a social meeting place for operas, theatre performances, concerts and other cultural activities. A fire in 1984 destroyed much of the theatre and roof, however, the integrity of the building remained. Since then, community members have worked to bring the Opera House back to the grandeur of its early years - a goal that Black Hills State University art instructor Erica Merchant is helping to make a reality.
Thu October 31, 2013
The Story Of South Dakota Through Photography
Over the past year-and-a-half, Abby Bischoff has been traveling across South Dakota and photographing old, abandoned farm houses. Earlier this month she started a Facebook page as a placeholder to share the photos with friends and family. She was surprised to receive more than 18,000 "likes" a few days after the page went public. Her goal isn't to sell the prints; instead she wants to tell the story of South Dakota and share its heritage. Her hope is to continue taking photos of these homes before they finally fall.
Tue November 5, 2013
We Are South Dakota Virtual Choir
On Monday, the Orlando Chamber Soloists released their "We Are South Dakota Virtual Choir 2013" video.
Wed November 6, 2013
"Murdoch's World: The Last Of The Old Media Empires"
NPR's award-winning media correspondent David Folkenflik's "MURDOCH'S WORLD: The Last of the Old Media Empires" (October 22nd, 2013) is an unflinching, unprecedented exploration of News Corporation's vast and imposing influence on global politics and a revelatory portrait of the man who remains the most significant media tycoon in the world—Rupert Murdoch.
Wed November 6, 2013
Le Vent Du Nord
Le Vent du Nord is in Sisseton this week as a part of an Arts Midwest World Fest Program tour connecting small and medium-sized communities in the American Midwest to cultures of the world. They'll give a concert at the Sisseton Performing Arts Council Friday at 7:00 p.m. Considered a driving force in progressive folk, Le Vent du Nord captures the energy and mirth of a Saturday night kitchen party, infusing old Québec with a breath of fresh, cosmopolitan air.
Thu November 7, 2013
California Folk Singer John Craigie
For the past decade, John Craigie has "lived the life romantic" of a continuously touring folk-singer, taking his unique musical style across the United States and the world. A singer, songwriter and storyteller, he stays true to the essence of folk music, and the traditions of the seminal writers of our past century. With timeless melodies and insightful lyrics—interspersed with witty storytelling—his songs take many poetic turns before bringing his listeners back home. Craigie performs at the Dahl Arts Center in Rapid City Saturday night (11/9) at 8:00 p.m.
Thu November 14, 2013
"Home" Starring Jenny Dempster
Sioux Falls native Jenny Dempster stars in the short film "Home." Cinema Falls features the 10-minute short during CineFest 2013 - A Film Festival in an Evening this Sunday. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. at Icon Event Hall + Lounge in Sioux Falls. Dempster has been acting since she was six. She has studied at some of the top acting institutions in the world including the Globe Theater in London, Guild Hall School of Drama in London and Tisch School of Arts at New York University.
Thu November 14, 2013
Listen For Life's Middle Grounds
Israeli born Ronit Widmann-Levy performs Saturday night with Listen For Life's Middle Grounds at the Matthews Opera House. The project is a group of international musicians championing peace and unity through music. It brings together five acclaimed artists from the conflict countries of Iran, Iraq, Israel, Palestine, Jordan and Syria.
Thu November 14, 2013
Minnesota Poet Sharon Chmielarz
Sharon Chmielarz spent her first eighteen years within sight of the Missouri River seen from her family's front porch steps, which inspired six poems about the river in her new poetry collection. The Yellowstone Trail is an old name for the current Highway 12, which passes through Milbank, Aberdeen, Mobridge and the Standing Rock Reservation.
Mon November 18, 2013
"The Messy Science Of Sustainibility"
Dr. Elaine Jane Cole is at USD for a 3:30 talk today (11/18) in 207 Beacom Hall on "The Messy Science of Sustainability: Testing a Behavior Change Model to Address Environmental Problems." She manages the Rock Creek Organic Learning Garden on Portland Community College's Rock Creek campus. The garden features composting bins and a sustainability designed straw bale tool shed. Food from the garden provides a partial supply for the cafeteria and is also donated to local charities. The cafeteria staff harvests pre-consumer waste before it's then to an on-site worm bin.
Wed November 20, 2013
"What Makes It Great?": Rob Kapilow
Tomorrow night at 7:30, Rob Kapilow joins the Rawlins Piano Trio at the National Music Museum for a "What Makes It Great" program exploring Beethoven's Archduke Trio. For over 20 years, Kapilow has brought the joy and wonder of classical music – and unraveled some of its mysteries – to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Characterized by his unique ability to create an "aha" moment for his audiences and collaborators, whatever their level of musical sophistication or naiveté, Kapilow's work brings music into people's lives. Kapilow's What Makes It Great?
Thu November 21, 2013
Independent Lens: Young Lakota
On Monday at 9:00 p.m. Central on SDPB-TV, INDEPENDENT LENS presents "Young Lakota," which follows three young people living on the Pine Ridge Reservation trying to forge a better future. When the tribe's first female president, Cecelia Fire Thunder, defies a South Dakota law banning abortion by threatening to build a women's clinic on the reservation, the three young tribe members are drawn into a political firestorm that changes their lives. Sunny Clifford, who is featured in the film, is now a reproductive rights activist.
Thu November 21, 2013
Nashville 2.0
Susan Wittenberg, a producer of Nashville 2.0, a documentary which airs tomorrow night at 10:00 p.m. Central on SDPB-TV, discussed her latest film. Nashville 2.0 explores the vibrant Americana music scene, a genre the New York Times dubbed "the coolest music scene today." Americana is roots-inspired music that draws inspiration from country, folk, bluegrass, R&B, blues, roots rock, bluegrass, gospel, rockabilly, honky-tonk, alternative rock, folk rock, and punk.
Mon November 25, 2013
"The Kennedy Half-Century"
"The Kennedy Half-Century: The Presidency, Assassination, and Lasting Legacy of John F. Kennedy" has been turned into a documentary which airs on SDPB2 tonight at midnight Central. Larry Sabato is a well-known political scientist and analyst and the founder of Sabato's Crystal Ball, an online newsletter and website that provides free political analysis and electoral projections. He is the Robert Kent Gooch Professor of Politics at the University of Virginia. Sabato discussed the legacy and life of John F. Kennedy.
Tue November 26, 2013
"South Dakota 125: A Pictorial History"
South Dakota Magazine has published "South Dakota 125: A Pictorial History." The book tells the history of South Dakota through photographs. One picture represents each year, beginning in 1889 and continuing to today. The book shows the buffalo ranchers, bridge builders, cowgirls, war heroes, artists and all who make South Dakota unique. It also includes histories of each decade. Rebecca Johnson is special projects coordinator for South Dakota Magazine.
Tue November 26, 2013
Tonic Sol-fa's 2013 Holiday Tour
Tonic Sol-fa brings their 2013 Holiday Tour to Rapid City's Rushmore Plaza Civic Center on December 2 at 7:30 pm and to the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls for 7:30 pm performances on December 6 & 7. Meanwhile, the Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience has shows scheduled for December 11 at the Sioux City Orpheum and December 17 at the Orpheum Theater in Sioux Falls. Shaun Johnson, tenor lead singer with Tonic Sol-fa, discussed the upcoming tour.
Mon December 2, 2013
"Jewish Biblical Legends: Rabbinic Wisdom for Christian Readers"
"Jewish Biblical Legends" introduces Christian readers of the Bible to the otherworldly way in which the rabbis of ancient times interpreted sacred texts. You will discover how the rabbis sought to keep their congregations engaged by telling tales and parables about the Bible. Sometimes they made up whole new background stories that do not appear in Scripture but shed light on it. Their interpretive insights were based upon immense knowledge of what Christians call the Old Testament. This knowledge they employed to keep the congregations engaged and informed.
Tue December 3, 2013
Preliminary Plans For SD's 125th Anniversary
Mike Mueller of the South Dakota Bureau of Administration discussed preliminary plans for the state's 125th anniversary celebration, the capitol's stained glass restoration, the new portrait of Governor Bill Janklow and the 2013 Christmas tree display.
Wed December 4, 2013
Holiday Jam With The Hegg Brothers
This year's Holiday Jam begins tomorrow night in Rapid City and wraps up in Sioux Falls on December 22 for a total of 15 concerts. Jeremy Hegg, singer Allison Nash, harmonica player Noah Hoehn, and saxophonist Matt Wallace joined the program to discuss the tour and play some Christmas tunes.
Thu December 5, 2013
New Holiday CD From The Hill City Slickers
The Hill City Slickers have released a new holiday CD, "Christmas Tracks." The band is holding a CD release party on Friday, December 6th at Chute Roosters in Hill City from 6:30 to 9:00 pm. They're also playing at Prairie Berry Winery on Saturday, December 21st from 12-2 pm. Joining the program from the Dahl Arts Center studio are Bruce Jordan, cello(bass), teapot and vocals; Gary Daiss, guitar, banjo, harmonica, saxophone and rain stick and vocals; and Ken Anderson guitar, mandolin and vocals.
Mon December 9, 2013
"The Buffalo King"
The documentary airs on SDPB-TV tonight at 8:00 p.m. Central. James "Scotty" Philip, a pioneer South Dakota rancher, is often credited with saving the American Bison from extinction. His story is told in "The Buffalo King," a production of Nowlin Town Productions. Philip and his wife, a Native American, came to Dakota Territory in the late 1800s. He set out to save the buffalo from extinction by buying a small herd of 74 buffalo. By the time of his death in 1911, the buffalo herd had grown to more than 1,000.
Tue December 10, 2013
"Draft Horse" Sculpture On Exhibit
John Lopez's scrap iron sculpture "Draft Horse" is on exhibit at Prairie Berry winery in Hill City. There's a reception this Saturday from noon to 3 pm. Over the past decade, Lopez has been working on The City of Presidents project in Rapid City. John Adams, John F. Kennedy and John, Jr., Calvin Coolidge, Teddy Roosevelt and Ulysses S. Grant are a few of the presidents Lopez has placed on the street corners so far. He also worked on sculptures of former governors Arthur Mellette and Harvey Wollman for the Trail of Governors in Pierre.
Thu December 12, 2013
"A Quiet Revolution"
Family, friends, and strangers who had awakenings during the civil rights movement helped fellow citizens with disabilities win independence from impersonal institutional life. Now, 40 years after leaving those institutions, the men and women in A Quiet Revolution will tell their own stories. A Quiet Revolution will feature South Dakotans. This state's deinstitutionalization movement wasn't sparked by a care crisis at its facilities, or because of class action lawsuits, as happened some other places.
Mon December 16, 2013
"This Place, These People"
In the tradition of Solomon D. Butcher, who photographed some of the first Midwestern settlers in the nineteenth century, and Wright Morris, who captured the lives of farmers' in the twentieth century, This Place, These People provides a photographic and vernacular portrait of disappearing farm places of the Great Plains. The book pairs photographer Nancy Warner's stark black and white photographs with the plain-spoken recollections of the people who live near abandoned farm places.
Tue December 17, 2013
Actor Of "Billy Jack" Movies Passes Away
Longtime Watertown broadcaster Don Egert of KXLG-FM was the college roommate of actor Tom Laughlin, star of the "Billy Jack" movies. Laughlin played football at the University of South Dakota and went on to write, direct and star in all four of the "Billy Jack" films, earnest tales of a tightly wound, half-Cherokee Vietnam veteran who protests Native Americans, wild horses and progressive ideals against attacks. None of the movies were critically acclaimed, but they played a big part in changing the way movies reached American audiences.
Tue December 17, 2013
Sioux Falls Musician Releases New CD
Sioux Falls guitarist Jesse Christen has released a new CD, "Gate of Charity." It features instrumental jams Christen describes as his "best shot at reaching a higher state of consciousness." The other players on the CD are bassist Tom McGovern and drummer Carl Holloman, Jr. Christen played in the Pomp Room favorite, the Sneakies, and was more recently a member of the Blues Bashers, a band featured earlier this year on SDPB's No Cover, No Minimum Radio.
Thu December 19, 2013
The Copoetics Play Sioux Falls
Indie/folk duo, The Copoetics, perform at Latitude 44 on Friday, December 27. Louisa Soli-Holt and Dan Finch are former educators who met in January at a Sioux Falls coffee shop. A rapid romance later, their stories took to writing and weaving themselves together. For much of 2013, they've been on a tour they call "The Tour of Impossible Dreams." Their time performing together has provided The Copoetics with enough material and energy to create their EP entitled "Finding the Four," which they released over the summer.
Thu December 19, 2013
Photographer Dick Kettlewell
Dick Kettlewell has spent a lot of time over the last 15 years on the rolling prairie of western South Dakota. His favorite subject to capture is the North American Pronghorn Antelope. He has a new book, set to hit shelves in March, featuring a number of his photographs and stories. SDPB's Charles Michael Ray followed Kettlewell into the field to view a heard of antelope on a recent winter afternoon.
Thu January 9, 2014
Human Sex Trafficking Told Through Dance
Daintry TenNapel knows human sex trafficking happens in South Falls and South Dakota. She wants others to know about it, too. To tell that story, TenNapel is turning to the performing arts. "Freedom: Unveiling the Cries of a Sex Slave" combines dance and cinematography in a 90-minute show. There are performances Friday and Saturday at 7:00 p.m. at the Orpheum Theater in Sioux Falls.
Mon January 13, 2014
Jazz/R&B Vocalist Performing In Sioux Falls
Jazz/r&b vocalist Jane L. Powell brings her acclaimed soul, humor and vocal prowess to the Mary W. Sommervold Hall in Sioux Falls on Friday (1/17) at 7:00 p.m.
Tue January 21, 2014
Fraser Speaks At USD
Dawn J. Fraser presents "The Art of Storytelling in Leadership" at the ballroom of the Muenster University Center at the University of South Dakota Tuesday night at 7:00 p.m. Fraser is the host and producer of "Barbershop Stories" out of New York City. She is also an instructor for The Moth, which can be heard Sunday nights at 11:00 p.m.
Tue January 21, 2014
Dotsero Returns To Sioux Falls
Colorado based jazz band Dotsero returns to Sioux Falls Friday night for a 8:00 show at the Orpheum Theater. The concert is part of the Sioux Falls Jazz and Blues Society's 2013-14 Concert Series. Dotsero played Jazzfest in 2005 and 2010. Dotsero saxophonist Steve Watts joined Karl Gehrke on Dakota Midday to talk about the band's spontaneous, stylish, energetic and humorous live show.
Wed January 22, 2014
The Untold Story Of Red Cloud, An American Legend
The Oglala-Lakota warrior-statesman Red Cloud was the only American Indian in history to defeat the United States Army in a war, forcing the government to negotiate for peace on his terms. At the peak of Red Cloud's powers the Sioux could claim control of one-fifth of the contiguous United States and the loyalty of thousands of fierce fighters. But the fog of history has left Red Cloud strangely obscured.
Wed January 22, 2014
"Nebraska" Film Nominated For Several Awards
Sioux Falls actor/bail bondsman Kevin Kunkel has a role in the comedy/drama, "Nebraska," which was released on November 15. The movie is directed by Alexander Payne and stars Bruce Dern and Will Forte. Last Friday, "Nebraska" received several Oscar nominations including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actor among others. "Nebraska" started filming in locations in its namesake state in November 2012. Filming moved to Billings, Montana; Buffalo, Wyoming; and Rapid City, South Dakota and wrapped in December after a 35-day shoot.
Thu January 23, 2014
"Rivers, Wings and Sky"
"Rivers, Wings and Sky," an exhibition by poet Norma Wilson and artist Nancy Losacker, is on display through the spring semester at the I.D.
Thu January 23, 2014
The Good Lovelies Play Spearfish
The Good Lovelies perform at the Matthews Opera House in Spearfish Saturday at 7:30 p.m. The funny and upbeat Canadian trio bring textbook three-part harmonies, constant instrument swapping and witty on-stage banter with just a pinch of sass to their shows. Lighthearted songwriting and irresistibly buoyant dispositions have made The Good Lovelies the darlings of the summer festival circuit, including spots at the storied Mariposa and Hillside Festivals and the Montreal Jazz Festival.
Mon January 27, 2014
"In Denial Of Context" Exhibit Showing In Rapid City
Artist and musician Paul Peterson's exhibit "In Denial of Context: Landscapes and Other Ephemera" is at the Dahl Arts Center through April 23rd. The exhibit showcases Peterson's paintings while exploring themes dealing with transitions that have taken place in rural life (particularly in South Dakota) over the past century. Most of these images are landscapes, some more abstracted than others, all painted with a passionate brushstroke. In 2012, Paul received an Artist Fellowhsip Grant from the South Dakota Arts Council.
Tue January 28, 2014
Books Tout Midwestern History
Jon Lauck argues that the American Midwest is an orphan among regions. In comparison to the South, the far West and New England, its history has been sadly neglected. Lauck said the Midwest has played a crucial role in the development of the entire country. Lauck, an attorney, historian and senior advisor to Senator John Thune, is the author of "The Lost Region: Toward a Revival of Midwestern History." He was joined by South Dakota State University emeritus professor of history John Miller.
Wed January 29, 2014
Ukranian Pianist Performing With Black Hills Symphony
Pianist Vadym Kholodenko is performing with the Black Hills Symphony Orchestra on Thursday (1/30) at the Performing Arts Center in Rapid City. Kholodenko, a 26-year-old Ukranian, is the 2013 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition Gold Medalist. He captured the attention of jury, audience, and critics alike for "mesmerizing and exhilarating" performances that brought the crowd to their feet. He's performing over 50 engagements in 2013-2014 as part of his debut season as Cliburn Gold Medalist.
Thu January 30, 2014
T.R.A.S.H. (Truly Rational And Sane Humans) is a group of "wacky" women. Some are married to doctors and some are not, but all are dedicated to helping audiences look for funny stuff in this crazy world and their lives in general. They have always believed that laughter is the best medicine and necessary to good health, healing and happiness. Topics are, loosely speaking, medical with the occasional "poke" at doctors and their specialties. T.R.A.S.H. has entertained for charity fund raisers and causes as varied as The American Cancer Society to National Guard units serving in Iraq.
Mon February 3, 2014
Review Of The Super Bowl Ads
Brandon Nutting, Assistant Professor of Contemporary Media and Journalism at the University of South Dakota, reviewed the Super Bowl ads from last night's Super Bowl matchup between the Denver Broncos and the Seattle Seahawks.
Mon February 3, 2014
Toulouse-Lautrec & His World
The Washington Pavilion and Citi present Toulouse-Lautrec & His World through June 8th in the Visual Arts Center's Everist Gallery. Regularly hosted at the Herakleidon Museum in Athens, Greece, this extensive collection of over 150 works is traveling outside of Europe for the first time. Toulouse-Lautrec & His World features one of the most fascinating artists and personalities of the Belle Epoque (Beautiful Era) in France, which lasted from the late 19th century through World War I.
Wed February 5, 2014
RAIN: A Tribute To The Beatles
The day before the 50th anniversary of the Beatles' arrival in New York City, RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles, perform at the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls on Thursday, February 6th, at 7:30 p.m. RAIN performs the full range of The Beatles' discography live onstage, including the most complex and challenging songs that The Beatles themselves recorded in the studio but never performed for an audience. In addition to the updated sets that include brand new LED, High-Definition screens and multimedia content, new songs have also been included with the launch of the 2013-14 Tour.
Thu February 6, 2014
Huff Speaks To Veterans Writing Group
Captain James Huff (U.S. Navy - Ret.) will give a presentation to the Black Hills Veterans Writing Group on Saturday morning. Huff received a direct commission in U.S. Naval intelligence in 1968. Concurrent with his Veterans Administration career, he served 28 years as a Naval Intelligence Officer in the active reserve and served three tours of active duty. He volunteered for recall to active duty during the first Gulf War (1990-91) and commanded a U.S.
Wed February 12, 2014
Indians Like Us
"Indians Like Us" airs Monday on SDPB-TV at 9:00 p.m. Central. The documentary is about a small group of French citizens - called "Savy Western" - who share a passion for everything Native American. Every weekend, they dress in Native regalia and make appearances at various village fairs alongside their countrymen in France.
Wed February 12, 2014
New Website To Promote Arts Events
Arts Rapid City is seeking community feedback for a new arts and culture website that will debut in September. It's something that's never been done successfully before in the Black Hills. Arts Rapid City wants to create a website that can list and promote all upcoming arts related events. It's a collaboration of many groups in town. A series of meetings for arts business owners, individual artists and arts organizations is scheduled for next week. Jessica Miller, collaborative strategist with Arts Rapid City, discussed the change to a new website.
Tue February 18, 2014
Arts Day At State Capitol
Today is Arts Day at the State Capitol in Pierre. The annual event is sponsored by the advocacy group South Dakotans for the Arts. Around 120 pieces of art created by students in every legislative district are featured on tote bags given to all state lawmakers, Governor Daugaard and other officials. Secretary of Education Melody Schopp discussed the arts in South Dakota's schools. She was joined by Winner High School teacher Karyl Clay and Winner High School Junior Samantha Simkins.
Wed February 19, 2014
The Tenors
The Canadian vocal quartet, The Tenors, performs Friday, February 28th at the Performing Arts Center at South Dakota State University in Brookings. In their short career, The Tenors have performed on The Oprah Winfrey Show (with Celine Dion), for Her Majesty The Queen during her Diamond Jubilee at Windsor Castle, the live broadcast of the 2011 Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, at the opening ceremonies of Vancouver's 2010 Olympics and for the NBA, MLB, and NHL All-Star Games.
Thu February 20, 2014
On February 21 for the first time ever, the internationally acclaimed TED event is coming to Brookings as TEDxBrookings. TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED like experience. At a TEDx event, TED Talks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. TEDxBrookings is focused around the theme "Reinventing Rural." The goal is to bring together artists, business and community leaders, entrepreneurs, students and educators to showcase the diversity and creativity of rural South Dakota.
Thu February 20, 2014
Guitar Masters 2014
Lawren Erickson was inspired to take up the guitar after hearing two upper classmen play surfer music at a talent show in junior high. In the years since, there followed a long string of cover bands that enjoyed some local notoriety. Upon returning to Sturgis in the mid 70's, Lawren decided to return to college to study music. Following the college venture Lawren decided to build a home and continued playing full time for several years. As time went on the music work became less lucrative and building work became more so.
Wed February 26, 2014
"Instruments Of Song"
Baritone Jesse Blumberg enjoys a busy and varied schedule of opera, concert, and recital performances in New York City and beyond. Some of his recent engagements include Niobe, Regina di Tebe at Boston Early Music Festival, Bernstein's Mass at London's Royal Festival Hall, and performances with the New York Festival of Song. Blumberg has toured with the Mark Morris Dance Group and the Waverly Consort, and has performed recitals for the Marilyn Horne Foundation.
Thu February 27, 2014
Violinist Performs In Aberdeen
Violinist Stephanie Chase has performed in 25 countries as featured soloist with the world's most eminent orchestras, among them the New York Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, London Symphony, American Classical Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony, National Symphony (Mexico), San Francisco Symphony and Hong Kong Philharmonic. Newhouse News calls her, "One of the violin greats of our era." Chase performs a chamber music concert with members of the Aberdeen University/Civic Symphony Thursday night at 7:30 at Northern State University.
Mon March 3, 2014
"The Highway 83 Chronicles"
Stew Magnuson's new book, "The Last American Highway: A Journey Through Time Down U.S. Route 83: The Dakotas (The Highway 83 Chronicles," was published on the 125th anniversary of the year North Dakota and South Dakota became states. Descending 1,885 miles straight down the center of the United States from Westhope, North Dakota, to Brownsville, Texas, is U.S. 83, one of the oldest and longest of the federal highways that hasn't been replaced by an interstate. Award-winning author Stew Magnuson takes readers on a trip down the road and through the history of the Northern Great Plains.
Mon March 3, 2014
The Soul Of John Black
The Soul of John Black will perform Friday, March 7, at 8:00 p.m. at the Orpheum Theater in Sioux Falls as part of the Sioux Falls Jazz and Blues Society's 2013-2014 concert series. The Soul of John Black is the nom de musique John Bigham, whose impressive resume includes a stint as percussionist with the Miles Davis band, eight years of guitar and keyboard work with the pioneering rock-funk-ska band Fishbone, and touring and session work with Dr. Dre, Eminem, Nikka Costa, Bruce Hornsby and Everlast.
Tue March 4, 2014
Baladino In Sisseton
Baladino, a world music ensemble from Israel, is in Sisseton through Saturday as part of a multi-city Midwestern performance tour. The five-member folk group takes its audience on a journey through music of the Mediterranean region - music carried to Israel by people from Spain, Eastern Europe, Turkey and Arabic countries. Multi-wind instrumentalist Yonnie Dror described how the group brings together instruments and traditions from a wide open span of cultures while updating them with their own youthful energy and backgrounds in jazz improvisation and electronica.
Thu March 6, 2014
"Beyond Boundaries" Exhibit Opens Friday
The Dahl Arts Center is home to "Beyond Boundaries: Visions from the South Unit of Badlands National Park." The collection of paintings, set in and around Badlands National Park, opens Friday and runs through May 3 in the Inez and Milton Shaver Gallery at the Dahl.
Mon March 10, 2014
Ten Tenors In Sioux Falls Friday
The Ten Tenors from Australia present a collection of Broadway's greatest hits Friday at 7:30 p.m.
Tue March 11, 2014
Union Grove Pickers Preview New CD
The Union Grove Pickers, a Sioux Falls based folk/American band, are set to release their second album, "Great Plains Driftin'," at a cd release concert on Saturday, March 22 at the Orpheum Theater in Sioux Falls. Band members Tim Jewell, Josh Rieck, Megan DeBoer, Erin Castle and Travis Jamison talked about the upcoming release and performed live at SDPB's studios at the University of Sioux Falls on Tuesday.
Thu, March 13, 2014
Commemorative Items and Why We Collect Them
Curators Dan Brosz and Matthew Reitzel from the South Dakota State Historical Society Museum and Archives present a special program, "Commemorative Items and Why We Collect Them," at 2 p.m. Sunday (3/16) at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. The program will feature artifacts that can be found in the Archives and Museum that relate to the commemoration or celebration of important historical events and special events in our own communities.
Mon March 17, 2014
Hatch Show Print
Hatch Show Print, in Nashville, Tennessee, is one of the oldest working letterpress print shops in the U.S. Hatch Show Print produced classic show posters for such legendary artists as Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Bill Monroe, Johnny Cash and Led Zeppelin. Jim Sherraden started working at Hatch Show Print in 1984 when it looked like the historic Nashville poster shop was about to go out of business. He's speaking at an American Advertising Federation-Black Hills luncheon at the Dahl Arts Center in Rapid City Tuesday morning and he joined Dakota Midday to discuss the company.
Thu March 20, 2014
Presenting the History of Jazz
New York City jazz pianist Jesse Lynch takes audiences on a journey through the history of jazz from ragtime and swing through bop and contemporary with his multimedia show, Jesse Lynch Jazz 101. Lynch and his trio are in the middle of a seventy-eight city tour bringing them to South Dakota this weekend.
Mon March 24
CALJE Performing in Spearfish
The band CALJE (Chicago Afro-Latin Jazz Ensemble) is performing at the Matthews Opera House in Spearfish on Tuesday, March 25 at 7:30 pm. CALJE is regarded as the new and innovative force on the Latin Jazz scene. With a global sound and ensemble, this band represents Afro-Cuban Jazz, as well as music from all of Latin America. They incorporate traditional Cuban rhythms as son, guaguanco, and clave negra with modern Jazz harmony.
Tue March 25, 2014
Better Living through Mindfulness
Given the busyness our daily lives, it's easy to lose connection with the present moment. The practice of mindfulness focuses attention on the present moment and advocates says it can improve both mental and physical health. Ronald Siegler, PsyD, is Assistant Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School and a long-time student of mindfulness. His books include "The Mindfulness Solution."
Tue March 25, 2014
Writers' Tour
Charles Bowden, investigative journalist and author, and Molly Molloy, research librarian and Latin American border specialist, are speaking this evening during the Great Plains Writers' Tour at Mount Marty College in Marian Auditorium, beginning at 7:00. Bowden has been writing about the Mexican border city of Juarez, notorious for its violence, for over 15 years. "El Sicario: The Autobiography of a Mexican Assassin," which Bowden co-edited with Molloy, was published in 2011 from Nation Books.
Tue April 1, 2014
Bordeaux Takes Post at Crazy Horse Memorial
Mary Bordeaux of Pine Ridge is taking the post of Museum Curator and Cultural Coordinator at Crazy Horse Memorial. Bordeaux will be responsible for programs of the Native American Educational and Cultural Center and an ever growing collection at the Indian Museum of North America. Bordeaux has an MFA in Museum Exhibition Planning and Design as well as a BA in Museum Studies. She leaves her position as Curator and Interim Director at the Heritage Center in Pine Ridge to work on the most extensive collection of Native American artifacts in North America.
Wed April 2, 2014
"This American Life" Host Coming to Sioux Falls
Built around the innovative personal vision of host Ira Glass, "This American Life" has pioneered a new kind of radio. The weekly program explores a theme - fiascos, conventions, frenemies - through a mix of documentaries, radio monologues, investigative stories and occasional fiction. Usually the program applies the tools of journalism to everyday life. But sometimes it tackles news stories, leading to some of its most distinctive and acclaimed show. The stories can be engaging, intimate, surprising, funny, disturbing and bittersweet.
Thu April 3, 2014
Mark O'Connor: American Fiddler
Violinist Mark O'Connor is one of today's most remarkable and versatile musicians. He plays jazz, county, bluegrass, folk and classical. He's also an accomplished guitarist and mandolin player. He's composed a number of orchestral works, including his "Fiddle Concerto" which has become the most-performed modern violin concerto of the last forty years. As an educator, he's developed the O'Connor Violin Method. The thread holding all of O'Connor's musical endeavors together is a distinctly American approach.
Mon April 7, 2014
The Northern League
Aberdeen native Paul Gertsen has given his entire collection of Northern League baseball memorabilia to the South Dakota State Historical Society. The collection features artifacts such as the plaque from the cornerstone of Aberdeen Athletic Field, home of the Aberdeen Pheasants, built in 1937 by the WPA; game-worn uniforms from the Aberdeen Pheasants, St. Cloud Rox and Winnipeg Maroons; team autographed baseballs and game-used bats; and more than 560 autographs of major league players, coaches and umpires who were at one time associated with the Northern League.
Tue April 8, 2014
"Disney's Beauty and the Beast" in Sioux Falls
Actor Kevin Kelly has a supporting role in the touring Broadway production of "Disney's Beauty and the Beast" playing at the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls today and Wednesday. Kelly grew up in Aberdeen. Both of his parents were active in community theater and his late father taught drama at Aberdeen Central High School. After high school, Kelly majored in theater at the University of South Dakota in Vermillion and is now based in New York City. Kelly joined Dakota Midday to discuss the Broadway production and his career in theater.
Wed April 9, 2014
35th Annual Young Artists Competition Winners
Jamuna Buchanan (violin) and Madison Wieczorek (piano) are winners of the 35th annual Young Artists Competition, sponsored by the Black Hills Symphony Orchestra and the Black Hills Symphony League. Competition is open to high school instrumentalists in grades 9 through 12 and living within a 180-mile radius of Rapid City. The junior division is open to students in 9th or 10th grades with a maximum age of 17. The senior division is open to those in 11th and 12th grade with a maximum age of 19.
Thu April 10, 2014
Pringle Rancher Publishes First Anthology
Pringle rancher and columnist Amy Kirk writes the weekly humor column, "A Ranchwife's Slant." She recently published her first anthology, "A Ranchwife's Slant: Cowboy, Kids and Ranch Life." Her columns candidly profile the big things in life in small but humorous ways: marriage, parenting, the gender gap, and problem solving, all under the premise of living and working with cattle. She gives an entertaining perspective of what it's like being a ranch wife raising a family and livestock alongside her husband Art.
Thu April 10, 2014
Ashwin Batish Ensemble in Spearfish
The Matthews Opera House & Arts Center in Spearfish presents a live performance by the Ashwin Batish Ensemble on Friday at 7:30 p.m. The band members are in Spearfish classrooms today and tomorrow explaining the origins of their instruments and Indian music. Ashwin Batish is a sitarist and table player. He received training in the North Indian classical tradition from his father S.D. Batish and later created his own unique fusion of Indian classical sitar with pop, rock, jazz, calypso and funk.
Mon April 14, 2014
The Address
Tuesday night at 8:00 p.m. Central, SDPB-TV will broadcast Ken Burns' newest film, THE ADDRESS. The Learn the Address Initiative launched in November calling for Americans, namely schoolchildren, to recite the Gettysburg Address and post it at www.learntheaddress.org. Numerous school children and citizens from the South Dakota area participated in the initiative.
Mon April 14, 2014
An Anxious Age
According to Joseph Bottum, public life is now a supernatural game and as such, for many Americans, how we vote has become how we are saved. In his new book, "An Anxious Age," Bottum argues that the notion of politics as a mode of spiritual redemption stems from the collapse of the Mainline Protestant churches over the last fifty years. Where those churches once defined the liberal consensus of the nation, they have nearly disappeared from public life, and in their place have risen strange new beings.
Tue April 15, 2014
Pioneers of Television Season 4
The fourth season of Pioneers of Television begins tonight at 7:00 p.m. Central on SDPB-TV with the episode "Standup to Sitcom." Future episodes include "Doctors and Nurses," "Breaking Barriers," and "Acting Funny." Steve Boettcher, President of Boettcher Media Group and co-owner of BT Media in Milwaukee, where Pioneers of Television is produced for PBS, joined Dakota Midday to preview the new season.
Wed April 16, 2014
Wild Kingdom Host Stephanie Arne
Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom host Stephanie Arne has held the position for just under a year. In the first four webisodes, she waded through the Florida Everglades learning about the invasive tegu lizard; dove off the Florida Keys and participated in coral reef restoration; searched along the California coast for the mighty California condor; and even went to the Black Hills and hung out with bison. Arne grew up in Pierre and graduated from South Dakota State University. She began her career at the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha as Education Outreach Coordinator.
Thu April 17, 2014
Independent Lens: Muscle Shoals
Muscle Shoals, Alabama is the unlikely breeding ground for some of America's most creative and defiant music. At its heart is Rick Hall who founded FAME Studios. Overcoming crushing poverty and tragedy, Hall brought black and white together in a cauldron of racial hostility to create music for generations. Filmmaker Greg "Freddy" Camalier directed "Muscle Shoals," which airs Monday night at 8:00 p.m.
Tue April 22, 2014
Author Frances Moore Lappe
Author Frances Moore Lappe says that Living Democracy is an enlivening culture in which the values of inclusion, fairness and mutual accountability show up in a wide range of human relationships. She's speaking at 7:00 p.m.
Wed April 23, 2014
Former Rapid City Mayor Pens Short Story
"I Fled," a short story about a young man with a severe stuttering problem, is an example of the stress, discomfort, and frustration such circumstances present to a young person. In this case, the 8th grader, under severe strain within his English class, flees from his hometown school to find help, counseling, and therapy in a distant city. The educational theme of this story is a fictionalized story about one methodology of therapy that proved to be enormously helpful to Don Barnett in the 1950s. Barnett was a successful public servant as Mayor of Rapid City, South Dakota in the 1970s.
Thu April 24, 2014
Casey Tibbs' Photographs and Journals
A dusty, forgotten box found in a California storage shed revealed rare photographs and journals of Casey Tibbs, the nine-time world bronc riding champion. Five or more decades ago, he had given the documents to a long-time friend who is now in her late 90's. The items were recently offered to the Casey Tibbs Rodeo Center
Mon April 28, 2014
"Inspire" Multi-Media Exhibit at the Dahl
The Inspire Project was designed to profile a special group of young people who have remained resilient and shown courage in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges in their lives. Photographer Chris Benson, along with audio-video artist Annie Woodle and writer Leah Diggins, present a collection of 30 large-scale black and white digital prints paired with written accounts of each subject, complemented by audio-visual elements that together reinforce the message of inspiration for the audience.
Mon April 28, 2014
Tasunka: A Lakota Horse Legend
Award-winning illustrator Donald F. Montileaux has put another ancient Lakota tale to paper. "Tasunka: A Lakota Horse Legend" features a Lakota translation by Agnes Gay and is the newest children's book from the South Dakota State Historical Society. "Tasunka" is a story of adventure, discovery, loss and renewal, set to beautiful ledger-style illustrations that illuminate the story of the horse and its importance to the plains people. "Tasunka" uses traditional storytelling methods to impart wisdom to new generations.
Tue April 29, 2014
TAP Program in Rapid City
In the spirit of using art as a vehicle for change and growth, Masayuki Nagase and his wife, Michele Ku, are working with the Rapid City Arts Council, Rapid City Area Schools, Destination Rapid City and area artists to launch a Teaching Arts Program (TAP). TAP will start its pilot program at Wilson and South Canyon elementary schools in Rapid City and at the Lakota Waldorf School on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. TAP is modeled after an artists-in-schools program through the Museum of Children's Art in Oakland, California.
Tue April 29, 2014
New CD from Hank Harris
Hank Harris is in concert Saturday evening at the Matthews Opera House in Spearfish to celebrate his latest CD, "Peace." Harris has encompassed and assimilated a wide range of musical genres into his own distinct style. His telling of the story behind each song creates a relaxed atmosphere - honest, informal, genuine and vulnerable. "As a songwriter, I've been chasing down songs for thirty-odd years. The things we walk by and miss every day, I make that my business," said Harris.
Wed April 30, 2014
The Smithsonian's History of America in 101 Objects
Dr. Richard Kurin, Smithsonian Institution Under Secretary for History, Art and Culture, is in Pierre at the Capitol Lake Visitors Center for a presentation at 7 p.m. Monday, May 5 to promote his new book, "The Smithsonian's History of America in 101 Objects." Ranging from the earliest years of the pre-Columbian continent to the digital age, and from the American Revolution to Vietnam, each entry pairs the fascinating history surrounding each object with the story of its creation or discovery and the place it has come to occupy in our national memory.
Wed April 30, 2014
Sign Painters
On Sunday, May 4, Tim Peterson, master painter with Flat Earth Art Company, will lead a group of local graffiti artists to create an advertisement mural in Art Alley to promote the screening of the film Sign Painters. This project brings together new and old typographical styles. Tim Peterson will also be a featured presenter at "Blackbook Sessions" on Tuesday, May 6 at the Dahl's Bruce H. Lien Cultural Cafe. Master sign painter Tim Peterson has left his indelible mark on the visual character of the Black Hills.
Thu May 1, 2014
Istinma/ To Rest
Scott Means plays the role of the son in "istinma/to rest," a short film about a Lakota man who finds forgiveness for his father and reconciles with him while breaking the cycle of trauma in the family. It's the first of a three-part trilogy set on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Jesse Short Bull co-wrote and co-produced "istinma/to rest." He's from Interior and a member of the Native Youth Leadership Alliance. He discovered his passion to make films about the Lakota, Dakota and Nakota people while attending Oglala Lakota College.
Tue May 6, 2014
Impeach Justice Douglas!
When William O. Douglas retired from the U.S. Supreme Court in 1975, he has served longer than any other justice in the court's history and helped decide some of the most important cases in the history of the nation, including Brown v. Board of Education (1954) which struck down segregation in public schools. On Sunday, May 11th, the Journey Museum in Rapid City will show scenes from "Impeach Justice Douglas!" as part of a program marking the 60th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education and the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act.
Tue May 6, 2014
Viral Video Musician
The National Music Museum in Vermillion is featuring sound artist and viral-video musician Johnnyrandom (Flip Baber) at their open house this Friday and Saturday. Johnnyrandom's techno song "Bespoken" has become something of an Internet sensation. He created it from thousands of sounds harvested from two bicycles. Johnnyrandom is the creator of the famed 'Doritos crunch' sound effect (among others). Johnnyrandom joined Dakota Midday to talk about his upcoming visit.
Wed May 7, 2014
Photos from Afghanistan on Display
Black Hills State University photography student Julieanne Morse finds it difficult to think of the exact words to describe her recent experience as a photojournalist in Afghanistan. She lets her photos tell the story. Morse, from Spearfish, recently returned from a nine-month deployment with South Dakota's National Guard 129th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment where she teamed up with a broadcast journalist and documented the daily lives of the troops.
Mon May 12, 2014
John Timm as Arthur C. Mellette
John Timm portrays Arthur Calvin Mellette, the last governor of the Dakota Territory and first governor of South Dakota. Timm brings Mellette to life during a meeting of the History and Heritage Book Club in Pierre Tuesday at 7:00 p.m., at the Cultural Heritage Center. The program is free. Mellette was appointed territorial governor in the spring of 1889 and was elected governor of South Dakota that fall. He served as governor until 1893. Timm has been performing living history portrayals of Mellette statewide since 1999.
Wed May 14, 2014
Recognizing Mount Rushmore's Forgotten Sculptor
Was Italian sculptor Luigi Del Bianco just another worker on Mount Rushmore, or the man who brought the monument to life? Del Bianco's name isn't mentioned in Rex Alan Smith's 1985 book, The Carving of Mount Rushmore. His name is etched on a stone slab at Mount Rushmore along with the other 400 men who also worked on the monument, but Del Bianco's grandson, Lou, says his grandfather deserves more recognition as Gutzon Borglum's chief carver.
Thu May 15, 2014
Artists Bike Across South Dakota
Karri Dieken and Michael Baum, both Black Hills State University graduates and adjunct art instructors, are taking their love of art and biking to a whole new level. On Monday, the two embark on a five-day, 442-mile bike ride from Spearfish to Brookings while creating a series of seismic drawings, a photograph journal and a video documentary. Their work will be part of a collaborative exhibit of 10 artist couples from South Dakota and elsewhere.
Tue May 20, 2014
Dances with Wolves – 25 Years Later
Twenty-five years ago, few would have believed the story of how South Dakotans participated in making an epic western. South Dakota Magazine Publisher Bernie Hunhoff penned "Too Good To Be True: Dances, 25 Years Later" in the May/June issue. He discussed his feature article and how the movie has affected South Dakota over the years.
Thu May 22, 2014
Friends Remember Ruth Ziolkowski
Ruth Ziolkowski died last night at the age of 87. Ziolkowski continued her husband Korczak's dream of honoring Native Americans by carving the likeness of Crazy Horse into the Black Hills of South Dakota. Under her direction, the Crazy Horse Memorial turned into a national draw. Jack Marsh, former President and CEO of the Freedom Forum and co-founder of the Crazy Horse Journalism Workshop, and Tim Giago, founder of the Native Sun News and the Native American Journalists Association, shared memories of their friend and colleague, Ziolkowski.
Tue May 27, 2014
Artists Discuss Last Week's Bike Tour
Artists Karri Dieken and Michael Baum, both Black Hills State University graduates and adjunct art instructors, completed a five-day, 442-mile bike ride from Spearfish to Brookings last week. Along the way they created a series of seismic drawings, a photographic journal and a video documentary. Their work becomes part of a collaborative exhibit of 10 artist couples from around the United States. Dieken and Baum are now completing their artwork to display in the Heart to Heart exhibition at the South Dakota State University Art Museum in January.
Wed May 28, 2014
New CD from Haley Bonar
South Dakota native Haley Bonar released her new CD, "Last War," on May 20. Stereogum premiered "Kill the Fun" from the album and said, "It's a fervent yet ornate folk-pop tune whose title belies its upbeat disposition." NPR said, "She's a remarkable performer, with a terrific ear for details and a gift for masking melancholy observations with hooks that stick." Bonar is currently on tour and hopes to play her new music for fans in South Dakota later this year.
Thu May 28, 2014
Black Hills Playhouse Preview
The Black Hills Playhouse is one of the oldest continuously operating summer stock theaters in the nation. Every summer the playhouse brings artists from all over the nation to create theater productions for residents and people visiting the Black Hills, and educational experiences for students of theatre. The playhouse will present a sneak peak review of the 2014 season on Saturday with the Tatanka Teaser at 2pm and 7:30 pm.
Dakota Midday Book Club
Fri January 31, 2014
Deadwood Dead Men
Bill Markley's novel "Deadwood Dead Men" is set in 1876 Deadwood. Legends like Calamity Jane, Seth Bullock, Charlie Utter, Sol Star and others come to life in the book, along with fictional characters, to recreate the mining camp's wild days. Jack Jones, a reporter for a Chicago newspaper, is assigned to write about the doings of Deadwood, an illegal gold camp that knows no law.
Fri January 31, 2014
New Book of Poetry by Eric Lochridge
A new book of poetry by Black Hills native Eric Lochridge is now on the shelves. Lochridge covered arts and music at the Rapid City Journal for 17 years before his recent move to Bellingham, Washington. "Real Boy Blues" is the second book of poems to be published. His work has also appeared in several journals. Lochridge describes his poems as a pursuit of the universal connections, including those between fathers and children, husbands and wives, and God and humanity.
Fri January 31, 2014
Roots Grow Deep and Strong
The Belle Fourche Writers' Group has published its first anthology, "Roots Grow Deep and Strong." Conceived as a community education writing class, the Belle Fourche Writers' Group has grown into a community treasure. They host events such as public readings, writers' retreats and "Meet the Author Nights." Meg English helped found the Belle Fourche Writers' Group after retiring from teaching. She was born and raised in South Dakota and has taught language arts and writing in middle school, high school and college.
Mon February 24, 2014
Circling Back Home: A Plainswoman's Journey
"Circling Back Home" is the story of one woman, at a time when values of home, family, and care of the land seem increasingly absent, looking to her past to create a life of significance for her family. Her search takes her back to the prairie of her grandmothers, who survived personal hardships and lived off what the land provided. Darcy Lipp-Acord mourns the loss of one child and celebrates the birth of others, all while balancing her own desire to put down roots with her husband's life as an inherent ranch hand.
Mon April 21, 2014
The Commandant of Lubizec
After the Nazis invaded Poland in 1939, they quickly began persecuting anyone who was Jewish. Millions were shoved into ghettos and forced to live under the swastika. Death camps were built and something called "Operation Reinhard" was set into motion. Its goal? To murder all the Jews of Poland. "The Commandant of Lubizec" is a harrowing account of a death camp that never actually existed but easily could have in the Nazi state. It is a sensitive, accurate retelling of a place that went about the business of genocide.
Fri May 30, 2014
Small-Town Dreams
South Dakota State University professor emeritus of History John Miller profiled 22 men who left their small-town upbringings and went on to do great things in his new book "Small Town Dreams: Stories of Midwestern Boys Who Shaped America." Through these life-stories, a history of American unfolds as Miller covers entrepreneurs, teachers, artists, entertainers, political figures and athletes. Some of his subjects include Henry Ford, Walt Disney, Johnny Carson, Ronald Reagan and Bob Feller. John Miller joined the program to discuss the process of compiling these stories.
Fri May 30, 2014
SDSU Professor and Poet Remembers Maya Angelou
Earlier this week, Maya Angelou died after a long illness at her home in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, at the age of 86. Angelou was a poet, performer and political activist. She grew up in a segregated society that she worked to change during the civil rights era. Angelou, who refused to speak for much of her childhood, revealed the scars of her past in "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," the first in a series of memoirs. The list of her published verse, non-fiction and fiction included more than 30 best-selling titles.
Fri May 30, 2014
Joseph Amato and the Power of Poetic Metaphor
Joseph Amato is the author of some twenty books and countless articles. He's written about faith, family and life in the Midwest and investigated the meaning of place and home. He's also taken intellectual and cultural journeys into the human relationship with dust and surfaces. He's written memoirs about golfing and bypass surgery. Amato taught for more than thirty-five years at Southwest State University in Marshall, Minnesota and helped create the university's Center for Rural and Regional Studies.