News

MURDO, S.D. – When a group of two dozen economic development leaders gathered in this central South Dakota city in November, they were asked to list the top challenges to growth and prosperity in their communities.

Yes. South Dakota has provided the tree for the National Christmas Tree display in Washington, D.C., two times since the tradition started in the 1920s. A third tree was selected to be displayed at the U.S. Capitol in 1997. The trees are placed annually near the White House on the Ellipse.

Jacob Ratzlaf f, born March 30, 2008, is the son of Steve and Cathy Ratzlaff and the brother of Justin, Jeanah, Jonah, Jaelin, Jaden, and Jorden.

On Sunday, December 21, the Avon Fire Department conducted a controlled burn at the former North View Motel, owned by Kevin Eben and Don Kocmich. The department was assisted by the Dante and Wagner Fire Departments during the operation.

Picture a man crawling through the desert in tattered clothing, whispering “water” as he nears an oasis. He isn’t thinking about his kidneys, yet they may be the main organ still keeping him alive.

After more than 18 years of dedicated service, Bryan Slaba is retiring as Chief Executive Officer of Wagner Community Memorial Hospital (WCMH), closing a remarkable chapter of leadership that helped shape the hospital into a thriving regional healthcare facility.

Congratulations to Walters Construction of Avon, the winners of this year’s Wagner Parade of Lights! Their bright and festive display stood out from the crowd and earned them the coveted traveling “A Christmas Story” Leg Lamp trophy...

As dusk settled over town on December 21, neighbors followed the glow of a bonfire to the empty lot south of Lake Andes Lumber Co., where a simple invitation turned into a memorable winter gathering.

American Legion Greer Post #11 held its monthly meeting on December 18, 2025 with 38 members and 3 SAL members in attendance. Commander Rados thanked the cooks for the delicious prime rib dinner. Dennis Clemens was the winner for the queen drawing but drew the 2 of clubs instead.

Greer Unit #11 American Legion Auxiliary held their monthly meeting on December 18 at the Post Home with 14 members present. President Alyssa Mathis called the meeting to order. Chaplain Margie Stone read the opening prayer.