O’Bryan earns Middle School Principal of the Year

By Jacob Waln Mikaela O’Bryan is the current middle school principal for Bennett County. Her academic teaching career started 22 years ago. For the first 13 years of her career she taught every age, ranging from elementary to high school.It was her grandpa Bob that inspired her to become a teacher.

County hires Lessert as hwy. superintendent

By Tim Huether Melissa Lessert was hired as the new Bennett County Highway Superintendent at the June 18, regular Bennett County Board of Commissioners meeting. Lessert was serving as the Hwy dept. secretary and will replace Colten Peterson who recently resigned that position.

Martin Summer Fest

By Jacob Waln The sun was shining just right for the weekend activities here in Martin. The cars were out, the motorcycles were everywhere, and people were enjoying the day.The growing event that is known as Martin Summer Fest was held this past Saturday, June 22.

Mary Kay Sell recognized as Honorary Secretary/ Timer during the Casey Tibbs Match of Champions

Mary Kay sell was recognized as an Honorary Secretary/Timer during the Casey Tibbs Match of Champions bronc riding on June 1.Mary Kay Sell grew up on the back of a horse on the family ranch in the hills of western Bennett County where it all started.

Sheriff’s deputy Kevin Curtis receives punishment for conduct

By Tim Huether Bennett County Sheriff’s deputy Kevin Curtis was found to have committed conduct unbecoming of an officer for his actions, or inactions, in two incidents he responded to at a hearing by the South Dakota Law Enforcement Officers Standards and Training Commission on June 12, in Pierre.

City directs attorney to draw up combined law contract

By Mandy Scherer The Martin City Council met for their regular meeting Wednesday, June 12, after the previously rescheduled meeting for Tuesday, June 11 was moved due to an agenda complaint.Council members present were Gloria Claussen, Larry Gauer, Randy Kocourek, Tootie Moffitt and Tyler Nollett.

Martin Farmer’s Market a success

Photo by Taylor Risse The first Martin Farmer’s Market was held on Tuesday, June 11, at the Martin City Park. In talking to the vendors and organizer Lana Trantham, the first market was a success. There were three vendors set up: Primal Plains, XS Farms, and Denison Country Farms.

Cars, motorcycles and fun

By Jacob Waln Martin Summer Fest is back and has added some more exciting events to the list of things to do this year. The third annual Martin Summer Fest will be held Saturday, June 22, on Main St. This is a yearly event that is hosted by the Oglala Drifters Riding Club.

Commissioners accept Highway Superintendent resignation

By Taylor Risse A regular meeting of the Bennett County Commissioners was held on Thursday, June 6.During highway department discussion, 2024 Bid Award was listed on the agenda, carrying over from last meeting.

New superintendent hired for BCSD

By Tim Huether The Bennett County School District board has hired Carol Galbraith as the new superintendent for the District, with the position being an interim one.