South Dakota Hall of Fame

If you weren’t among the several hundred people in Chamberlain last weekend (September 7-8) for the South Dakota Hall of Fame ceremonies, you missed a real treat!

Thirteen remarkable South Dakotans were inducted into the 2007 Hall of Fame. I was there because I had nominated Charles “Eddie” Clay of Hot Springs, one of the inductees, and this was one of the most moving experiences of my life.

What motivates people to give back to their communities? How do they do it? Why? There are as many answers as there are inductees – and I’m finding out that there’s no shortage of truly generous and caring people in South Dakota. Hearing their stories is a wonderfully moving experience. One thing they all shared: a deep and abiding love for South Dakota.

The Hall of Fame was established back in 1974 to recognize and honor pioneers and outstanding leaders from all walks of life who have contributed to the development and heritage of our state. The Hall is located in Chamberlain and is a “must see” site for all South Dakotans. Learn more at their web site.

Thanks to Judd Lindquist, the staff, and many volunteers who hosted the event this year. While a Friday evening reception took place at the Hall of Fame itself, all other activities were at the beautiful Cedar Shore Resort on the west bank of the Missouri River in Oacoma.

I hope you take time to browse through a few of the photographs of the Hall of Fame activities. More importantly, I hope you’ll make plans to attend future gatherings – and plan to be inspired!