Russell Means never shunned attention. Whether leading Native Americans in railing against broken federal treaties, appearing in a Hollywood blockbuster or advocating a sovereign American Indian nation within U.S. borders, the activist who helped lead the 1973 uprising at Wounded Knee reveled in the spotlight.

George Stanley McGovern, husband and father, teacher and politician, proud South Dakota Democrat, author and advocate for the poor, lived a life of service through decades of American history he also strongly influenced.
Born in Avon, South Dakota on July 19, 1922 to the Rev. Joseph and Frances McLean McGovern, George left Dakota Wesleyan University DWU), in Mitchell, where he excelled in debate, to join the Army-Air Force in 1943.

A celebration of life was held for Michael G. Tavernier, 60, of Coos Bay, Ore., at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at the Bastendorff County Park pavilion.
Mike was born August 25, 1952, in Pierre, S.D., the son of Raymond and Betty (Sommers) Tavernier. He passed away September 26, 2012, in Coos Bay.
He moved to Oregon as a child with his family and graduated from Marshfield High School.
He worked several years at Weyerhaeuser, and the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay. He also worked in tunnel construction. He helped build the Portland Zoo tunnel.

Gertrude E. Woodden, age 95 of New Underwood, S.D. died Friday, October 12, 2012, at the Good Samaritan Center in New Underwood.
Gertrude E. Doughty was born February 23, 1917, in Rapid City, the daughter of Phillip and Clara (Evenson) Doughty. She grew up north of Quinn and graduated from Wall High School. She then attended Spearfish Normal and earned her teacher’s certificate. She taught at rural schools for 21 years.