South Dakota’s cities fueled the state’s population growth over the last decade, according to detailed population data released August 12 by the U.S. Census Bureau that will form the basis for the state’s new legislative boundaries.

The Gregory Police Department and Avera Gregory Trauma Department teamed up again last week for a pool party cook-out. While grillmasters Police Chief Doug Catts and Officer Tom Grove cooked and served burgers, hot dogs, and good will just east of the Gregory swimming pool as part of their community policing efforts, Avera Gregory’s trauma department provided the food and used the event to talk to kids about water safety.

The widow of a man struck and killed on a South Dakota highway by the state’s attorney general is attempting to block the release of her husband’s mental health records. A judge recently ordered several hospitals and clinics to provide records about Joe Boever’s psychiatric state.

The Burke Riding Club once again hosted their play nights this summer. They started on July 6th and wrapped up on August 10th. They had a great turn out again as they hosted over 60 kids throughout the six weeks. There were four age groups, Buckaroos 0-7, Beginners 8-10, Juniors 11-13, and Seniors 14-18, that competed in 3 events each week, barrels, poles, and flags. They were able to award prizes to champions and reserves in each event, all around and reserves, most improved, and participation.

A man accused of opening fire on a group of people, killing one, is set go on trial this week after spending the last two years in jail. The Sioux Falls Argus Leader reported 37-year-old Ramon Deron Smith’s trial will begin Monday.

The Gregory Community Foundation completed one of its major goals this week by delivering a $15,000 check to finalize its pledge of $25,000 towards the new hospital. The Foundation had made previous grants totaling $10,000. Accepting the grant, Hospital Administrator Anthony Timanus, said the money is being used to buy equipment for the new hospital.