08/15/2026
As the 2026 Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally officially draws to a close, we reflect on our staffed week and everything that transpired over the previous 8 days with relief, and maybe even just a little pride. Most of all we are filled with gratitude, and there are a lot of folks we wish to acknowledge;
Our LE Partners that handle the investigation portion of a traffic accident, and always have our back when we need it.
The tow truck operators that pick up the pieces and clean up the mess. The unsung first responders. Stay Safe people.
The Ambulance Crews that dash from scene to scene. You cover a lot of miles and sometimes don't know if you're dealing with a refusal or a true emergency when you get there. Regardless, you're always where you're needed.
Perhaps the least appreciated and overlooked people that work the motorcycle rally are the garbage collection drivers. It must be like Christmas in the parcel delivery business for you? More traffic, more refuse, more obstacles, but the same number of hours in which to do it. Great job cleaning up after everyone this week. Keep yourselves safe out there!
The always vigilant Dispatchers; the calm voice mining information from the static to keep everyone informed. You are the pinnacle of professionalism and multitasking.
Thanks to everyone that pulled over and stopped for emergency lights this week, wherever it was. That is a great way to show your appreciation for what we're doing!
With regards to our sustenance this past week there are many to thank. We're probably all going on a diet starting Monday, but last week we ate well while at Station #1. Caty Schweisbereger, Ed Davis, Pat Geary, Ed Harty and his son's from Harty Mobile Repair, Patas Azules, the Moontime Grill, and anybody else I may have overlooked. Thanks for making sure we didn't go hungry!
All of our followers, new and established. Thank you for your comments, prayers, well-wishes, reactions and shares. You keep us relevant and grounded. You carry our story beyond our reach, you laugh with us and share our sorrows. And to everyone from near and far that stopped to say 'Hello' this past week. We enjoyed visiting with you, and we hope you had a wonderful time.
And finally, the toasters. Meade County Sheriff's Office didn't know what an internet firestorm they were starting with their flippant comment, but it gave us all a fun distraction from the stress the Rally sometimes brings. To have people spend their hard-earned money on an appliance only to donate it to JSFD left us feeling very humble and grateful. Yes, it was a silly, viral joke, but it still made us feel appreciated. When we see it on the counter, it will always remind us of the people we volunteer to serve.
Thank you Everyone for your contributions this week. Stay tuned for more adventures.
👨🚒 Be Smart and Be Safe! 🇺🇸
Pennington County Sheriff's Office
South Dakota Highway Patrol
South Dakota Department of Transportation
Pennington County 911
Rapid City Fire Department
Patas Azules LLC
Harty Mobile Repair
