RAPID CITY, South Dakota – The arrival of the season’s first significant cold snap means it is time for George, Abe, Teddy, Thomas and all of the presidential statues in downtown Rapid City to get bundled up.
This month marks the 10th year of an initiative started by city officials that encourages the public to place winter apparel items on the statues. During cold weather, items such as gloves, scarves, hats, coats and socks are placed on the statues by residents and are then collected for those in need.
With the traditional holiday season of giving underway, Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun is encouraging the public to continue this tradition and to share their generosity with community organizations that assist those in need throughout the year in Rapid City, South Dakota.
“Rapid City is such a giving and generous community,” said Mayor Salamun. “Rapid City residents always step up and meet the community need, whether its donations of food, diapers, toiletries or winter apparel items.”
“I encourage citizens to continue their strong spirit of giving, whether its placing a stocking cap on a statue or donating to organizations and efforts that assist those in need in our community,” he added.
The placement of winter apparel items on downtown statues was first authorized by Mayor Steve Allender in November 2015. The City Council later approved a resolution in April 2016 allowing items to be placed on the statues annually from November 15 to March 15.
The public has responded with generosity each winter season, ensuring the 43 downtown presidential statues-including the statues of First Dogs Barney and Liberty-remain attired in various forms of colorful and warm winter apparel items. Items are often collected soon after placement.
Many church, youth and other groups and organizations often organize efforts to place several items on the statues at once. After March 15, any items remaining on the statues can be removed.
