Residents and visitors line Main Street during the 2025 Fourth of July Parade in Wessington Springs. This year’s Independence Day celebration will feature three days of activities, including rodeo events, a community parade, turtle races, a youth micro derby and fireworks at dusk on July 4. (TRUE DAKOTAN FILE PHOTO)

Val and Dawn Luckett were recently recognized by the South Dakota Auctioneers Association for their contributions to the auction profession. Val was inducted into the association’s Hall of Fame, while Dawn was honored for her excellence and dedication during nearly two decades of service as the organization’s executive secretary.

Area Students Earn Spring Dean’s List Honors at SDSU

A Toby Doeden campaign sign outside 9 East 10th St in Groton, S.D. on June 15, 2026. The building is an apartment complex that Doeden’s 5-Star Management company operates. (Photo: Molly Wetsch/South Dakota News Watch)

Hope Cemetery accepts a $1,500 grant for fence improvements. Pictured from left to right: Central Electric General Manager Designate Ryan Mueller, General Manager Ken Schlimgen, Melissa Schimke, Dale Schimke, Parker Couch, Larry Powell, Norma Powell, Herman Eilers, Susan Olson, Operation Round-Up Trustee Amber Kolousek, Rick Couch, Ron Thompson, Central Electric Director Mark Reindl and Central Electric Director Merl Bechen.

Venture Communications donates $5,000 to Weskota Manor Avera

Community Foundation awards more than $11,000 in local grants