News Briefs July 8, 2026

Because of improvements underway on Volga’s Samara Street passing by the Brookings County Museum, parking for museum visitors will be changed for the rest of the summer.

Parking will be on Third Street or in that area of Volga within about a block of the museum. Persons arriving in Volga on Highway 14 can gain access to Third Street off Volga’s main street, Kasan Avenue. 

 

During street construction, the museum will still be open from 1 to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday until Labor Day, according to Shirley Deethardt, museum board president. 

 

BROOKINGS — The Brookings Regional Growth Alliance invites the community to another summer of live music, local food, family activities and downtown fun as Downtown at Sundown returns for its 11th season.

 

The free concert series takes place every Thursday evening from July 30 through August 27, from 5:30 to 9:00 PM on Main Avenue in Downtown Brookings. Each week features live entertainment, local food and beverage vendors, activities for all ages, and opportunities to connect with friends, neighbors, and local businesses. The series is made possible through the support of Headliner Sponsor First Bank & Trust and many community sponsors.

 

“Downtown at Sundown has become one of the highlights of summer in Brookings because it brings people together in a way that truly reflects the spirit of our community,” said Tom Fishback, Market President for First Bank & Trust. “We’re proud to support an event that celebrates local businesses, creates meaningful connections, and helps make downtown Brookings a vibrant gathering place for residents and visitors alike.” 

 

Now entering its 11th year, Downtown at Sundown continues to be one of Brookings’ signature summer traditions. Following a record-setting 10th anniversary season in 2025 that welcomed nearly 18,000 attendees, the event continues to create opportunities for residents and visitors to experience Downtown Brookings while supporting local businesses and enjoying free community entertainment.

 

“This event is a great example of what happens when businesses, sponsors, volunteers, and the community come together,” said Cierra Gerstner, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Brookings Regional Growth Alliance. “We’re grateful to First Bank & Trust and all of our sponsors for investing in an event that creates lasting summer memories while showcasing everything that makes Brookings such a special place.”

 

 

July 30

Kickoff Night

Lizzy Hofer

 

August 6

Bobcat Night

Undercover Band

 

August 13

New Resident Night

The Shalo Lee Band

 

August 20

Multicultural Night

The Tara Faber Band

 

August 27

SDSU Night

The Devon Worley Band

 

For the full event lineup, vendor information, sponsor highlights, and event details, visit www.downtownatsundown.org.

 

 

The Philanthropic Educational Organization - Chapter CA invites the Brookings community to come together for a morning of movement, connection and purpose at the inaugural “Walk Today for Women Tomorrow.” The walk begins at 9:30 a.m. on August 1, starting at the Miller Wellness Center and ending at the South Dakota Art Museum on the campus of South Dakota State University. Participants will be welcomed at the finish with light refreshments and a cheerful finish as the walk wraps up. It’s a simple, uplifting way to start the day with neighbors and friends. 

 

This first-ever community walk shines a spotlight on P.E.O.’s long-standing mission to motivate, educate and celebrate women through educational scholarships. Every step taken helps open doors for women pursuing their educational goals. Participants of all ages are welcome, and the event is free and open to the public. Donations to further P.E.O. efforts will be accepted, but not mandatory. 

 

In the event of inclement weather, the event will be moved indoors to the Miller Wellness Center. 

 

Also happening on campus that morning, the South Dakota Art Museum will open its doors at 10 a.m. for Community Art Day. It’s a welcoming, family-friendly opportunity for anyone who’d like to continue their morning in a creative way. For more information, reach out to the South Dakota Art Museum.

 

Chapter CA has been part of the Brookings community since it was organized in 1970, and looks forward to welcoming neighbors and friends for this uplifting new tradition. For more information regarding the event or Chapter CA, please contact Jeannie Jones Manzer at peobrookingswalk@gmail.com.

 

P.E.O. has been motivating, educating and celebrating women for more than 156 years. Since its inception in 1869, the nonprofit organization has helped almost 130,000 women pursue educational goals by providing approximately half a billion dollars in grants, scholarships, awards and loans. The Sisterhood is also the primary support for Cottey College, a four-year accredited college in Nevada, MO. Through membership, the P.E.O. Sisterhood has brought together more than half a million women in the United States and Canada who are passionate about helping women advance through education while supporting and motivating them. In addition to the educational philanthropies, the P.E.O. Sisterhood provides a framework of support and community for all members.

 

What started with a bond of friendship among seven women in Mount Pleasant, IA, is now one of the oldest women’s organizations in North America with more than 5,400 chapters. 

 

To learn more about P.E.O., its powerful educational philanthropies and see stories of women who have benefited from the programs, visit peointernational.org. 

 

 

 

BROOKINGS — The Brookings Rotary Club recently welcomed new President Devan Schaefer, who received the gavel from outgoing President Jennifer Olson.  Schaefer shared his thoughts in the following comments.

 

“I’m honored to begin serving as President of the Rotary Club of Brookings for the 2026-2027 year.

 

“When I joined Rotary in 2023, I was looking for a way to get more involved in the Brookings community, meet great people, and make a meaningful impact. What I found was so much more: a network of leaders, mentors, friends and neighbors who are committed to living out Rotary’s motto, Service Above Self.

 

“As I step into this role, my vision for the coming year is focused on four priorities: growing our membership, strengthening connections within our club, serving the Brookings community, and extending our impact through Rotary’s global mission.

 

“I believe Brookings is a special place because of the people who invest their time, talents, and resources to make it better. Rotary provides an opportunity to do exactly that while building lasting friendships and connections along the way.

 

“Thank you to the past presidents, especially Jennifer Olson, current members, and community leaders who have helped shape this organization. I am excited to build on their work and help continue Rotary’s tradition of service in Brookings and beyond.

 

“Here’s to a year of service, fellowship, and making a difference.”

 

— From staff reports