Features

Grappling for Glory: Teams qualify for state dual

TROJANS TRAVELED TO STATE TEAM DUALThe West Central Trojans wrestling team qualified for the 2026 State Wrestling Team Dual Tournament. The team competed in the Class A Team Dual Tournament in Pierre on Friday, February 13. Results were not available at the time of...

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Tri-Valley’s One-Act takes center stage

TRI-VALLEY ONE-ACT PLAY The Tri-Valley One-Act Play competed at the Regional Contest on January 27 in Baltic. Tri-Valley had eight actors receive superior acting awards at the region competition. (Photos/Submitted) Sara Stadem | Managing Editor sstadem@ncppub.com...

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West Central’s One-Act takes center stage

WEST CENTRAL ONE-ACT CAST AND CREW The West Central One-Act Cast and Crew performed at the Regional Contest on January 27 in Brandon and the State One-Act Play on February 6. (Photo/Submitted) Sara Stadem | Managing Editor sstadem@ncppub.com The West Central One-Act...

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Dan Ahlers seeks Governor’s office in South Dakota

DAN’S SUPPORTERS Despite running as a Democrat in a traditionally conservative state, Ahlers hopes voters will see him as a voice that can bridge the gap between political parties. (Photo/Submitted) AHLERS ENTERS RACE FOR SOUTH DAKOTA GOVERNOR Dell Rapids native and...

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A New Chapter

MILLER BECOMES NEW OWNER OF NEW CENTURY PRESS Lisa Miller, formerly Chief Operating Officer of New Century Press (parent company of The Minnehaha Messenger), became the company’s owner as of January 1, 2026. (Photo/Submitted) Miller leads New Century Press as owner...

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Regional partnerships, local impact

Sara Stadem | Managing Editor sstadem@ncppub.com For years, rural communities have partnered with Sioux Metro Growth Alliance (SMGA) to support their economic development efforts by gaining access to regional expertise, marketing, funding sources and more. Two local...

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Anderson receives approval to purchase items to help voters

ADA VOTING BOOTHS This is an example of one of the ADA voting booths that Minnehaha County Auditor Leah Anderson plans to purchase with carry-over funds. (Photo/Dave Baumeister) Dave Baumeister | County Correspondent SIOUX FALLS – Minnehaha County Auditor Leah...

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Burgers, bragging rights and rural pride:

Candy Land Burger, Lucky Ladz Bubba's Revenge Burger, The Wooden Nickel Sweet Heat Bin Burger, Steve’s Bar The Strammy Whammy, Someday Cafe Boss Hog, Baltic Corner Sriracha Bourbon Pub, Prohibition Pub Peanut Butter Jelly Time, Norby’s Goudalicious, Safari Bar &...

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Deans honor history with Aunt-T’s-Ques

ART WORK AND TOOLS The walls of Aunt-T’s-Ques are filled with historical photos and paintings. In addition, Aunt-T’s-Ques also offers hardware and tools. (Photo/Submitted) CARS AND TRUCKS Metal cars and trucks are on display at Aunt-T-s-Ques. (Photo/Submitted) Marylou...

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Colton Fire and Rescue to host annual soup supper

Abby Mitchell | Staff Intern On a cold South Dakota winter day, is there anything better than soup? The Colton Fire and Rescue’s Annual Soup Supper is back and the volunteer fire fighters are ready to serve you! The Colton Fire and Rescue will host its annual soup...

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Teacher resigns following social media controversy

"…The posts in question were not made on a District platform and do not represent the views of the District.” – Superintendent, Dr. Lodmel Sara Stadem | Editor sstadem@ncppub.com After controversy over social media posts, a local Tri-Valley teacher found himself at...

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CVSG recaps 2025 and prepares for 2026

CVSG ATTENDS STATE CONVENTION Members of the Central Valley Struttin’ Gobblers (CVSG) attended the South Dakota National Wild Turkey Federation state convention, which was held in Deadwood. Pictured back row (left to right) is Brad Montgomery, Ashley Montogomery, Greg...

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Be someone’s hero this National Blood Donor Month

Sara Stadem | Editor sstadem@ncppub.com The start of a new year often inspires people to make fresh starts, break old habits, and set goals for positive change. As the new year begins, January also marks a time to recognize a season of giving through National Blood...

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Chamber looks forward to 2026

CHAMBER EVENTS The Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic is one of the many events that the Chamber hosts each year. For more information on how to become a Chamber member, visit https://www.hartfordsdchamber.org/ or contact Jill Skots at 605-370-9762....

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Is your student ready for kindergarten?

Sara Stadem | Editor sstadem@ncppub.com Although the 2025-2026 school year is still underway, it’s that time of year to begin planning for the next academic year with Kindergarten Registration and Screening. The Tri-Valley School District will have their Kindergarten...

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From history to the classroom: Why MLK day matters

LEARNING THROUGH BOOKS In honor of MLK Day, West Central District Media Specialist/Librarian Mrs. Danann Tirrel has prepared special library displays across the district highlighting resources on Dr. King. (Photo/Submitted) HONORING MLK The students at the Humboldt...

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Buffalo Christian Homeschool Academy receives welding grant

BCHS RECEIVES GRANT The Buffalo Christian Homeschool Academy, now serving 27 students, recently received a grant from Farm Credit Services of America to help purchase welding supplies for their school. (Photo/Submitted) Abby Mitchell | Staff Intern Buffalo Christian...

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Colton Community Connected prepares for 2026

PREPARING FOR COLTON COUNTRY DAYS The Colton Community Connected committee has several upcoming fundraisers planned to help prepare for the 2026 Colton Country Days. Mark your calendars for the 2026 Colton Country Days, which is set for July 17-19. (Photos/Submitted)...

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