The 34th Annual South Dakota State Senior Games were held Sept. 7-10 in Sioux Falls. There were 552 people who registered for the events, with most participants competing in numerous events, since participation is not limited to any certain number of events. Those ages 50 and over can compete. Awards are given for the top three places in each event, both to male and female divisions.
In her age division, Audrey Kempf of Woonsocket placed first in discus (47’7”), first in shot put (18’8”), first in javelin (35’11”), first in hammer throw, (61’2 1/2”), first in free throws (9), and first in field goals (7).
In his age division, Lloyd Kempf of Woonsocket placed third in discus (74’9”), first in hammer throw (85’7”), first in pole vault (4’7”), second in high jump (3’8”), first in 50-meter dash (48.0), first in free throws (24), and first in field goals (15).

The member-owners of North Central Farmers Elevator and Wheat Growers have each voted to approve the unification of the two cooperatives.
The North Central Farmers Elevator members voted for the proposed unification 911-657. The Wheat Growers members also voted for the proposed unification,1598-954. With this vote, the new cooperative is expected to begin operations effective Feb. 1, 2018. Until the effective date, each cooperative will continue to operate independently from the other.
“We listened to our members and it was based on their comments that we brought this to a vote of the membership,” said Rick Osterday, North Central Farmers Elevator Board President. “We’re pleased that they concluded that the unification of both cooperatives can bring additional value to members and ensure the long-term relevance and viability of a unified cooperative. We want to thank them for their support and participation in this important part of cooperative governance.”
The member voting period began Aug. 29 and followed a series of member information meetings that were held throughout the region beginning Aug. 21. Members cast their ballots through Sept. 28. All ballots submitted were verified by Eide Bailly, the third-party audit firm administering the vote.
The focus of the two cooperatives now turns to planning integration efforts, including developing a name for the new cooperative.
To learn more, visit www.ncfe.coop or www.wheatgrowers.com.