What started as a routine drive into town quickly turned into something unforgettable along Lake Mitchell. A quiet morning was suddenly interrupted by the thunder of wings as thousands of snow geese took flight overhead, their calls echoing across the sky.
Davison County Commissioners tackled a wide range of issues this week, including a potential burn ban, facility upgrades, and a new jail contract, while also approving routine business. Meanwhile, local fourth graders are preparing for a hands-on agriculture event at the fairgrounds, and officials are raising concerns after state policy changes reduced meal availability for seniors, putting added strain on the community’s Adult Nutrition Program.
Wessington Springs High School students will soon get hands-on meat processing experience through a new agricultural lab equipped with commercial-style tools. School officials say the program will support career training and help supply beef for school lunches.
Mitchell residents can set oversized items on the curb during Spring Cleanup Week, April 20-24, 2026, for city pickup on their regular garbage day. The city also will offer free landfill dumping for pickup-sized residential loads during the cleanup period.
Big Friend Little Friend has reached 101 active mentoring matches in Mitchell, connecting adult volunteers with local youth and families. Program leaders say the milestone highlights strong community support, but more mentors are still needed.
The Mitchell City Council is moving ahead with a third round of bids for a proposed tornado shelter and restroom facility at Lake Mitchell Campground. City officials hope added construction options will lower costs and bring the FEMA-backed project closer to budget.
South Dakota gubernatorial candidate Dusty Johnson announced a campaign proposal Friday to invest $2 million in a new “Launch South Dakota” initiative aimed at supporting startups and homegrown entrepreneurs. Johnson said the plan would use money from the state’s Future Fund if he is elected governor.
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley says the state has settled its case with Mayday Health over abortion pill advertisements posted at gas stations. The New York-based group agreed to remove the signs and end the dispute in both South Dakota and New York.
A bill that would help South Dakota families cover reduced-price school meals is headed to Gov. Larry Rhoden after clearing both chambers of the Legislature. Supporters say the measure would help pay for about 1.5 million meals served annually in the state’s public schools
Mitchell High School’s Friend de Coup earned a fourth-place overall finish at the Sing All About It! competition in Sioux City. The show choir also picked up awards for best choreography and people’s choice.