Memories of Small Town SD: Labor Day in Newell

I grew up in a small, western South Dakota town named Newell. There is a centennial celebration there this weekend so I’m thinking about the annual Labor Day activities that I’m missing. I’m a people watcher. Therefore, I’d really like to be at the all-school reunion to see folks I haven’t seen in years. I don’t just mean classmates.  I’m interested in everyone; how they look, if they married or not, had kids, where they live, and what they do. I’m fascinated by people. There will be a parade, too, complete with candy, the high school marching band, horses, antique cars, politicians, rodeo queens, and drunks on class floats.  There’s bingo in the park and games for kids. And, finally, there’s the Labor Day rodeo where I once competed for the rodeo queen title. I finished as first runner-up. The politics left a bad taste in my mouth. I never did another rodeo queen contest.

When I was a kid, I would go to the parade and flower show with my family or friends. Beginning in junior high, I marched in the band or rode my horse through waving to the spectators along the street. Between the parade and rodeo, we would grab some lunch at the NVN Senior Citizens Center or Blue Line Drive-In. The rodeo was usually super hot and dusty, but so much fun anyway.

My wish for everyone in Newell (Nisland and Vale, too) this weekend is that they reconnect with old friends, make some new friends, and treasure the memories. Real Americans come from small towns where faith, family, and the flag reign supreme.

Here’s a recipe that will be a hit at your Labor Day picnic or wherever you choose to share it:

Special K Bars

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup peanut butter (I prefer creamy)
• 6 cups of Special K cereal
• 6 oz. of butterscotch chips
• 6 oz. of chocolate chips

Bring sugar and corn syrup to a boil. Boil for approximately one minute until the mixture becomes clear. Add peanut butter and mix. Add cereal and mix well. Pour into a greased 9x13 pan and spread evenly. Cool. Melt all chips together and spread over bars. Cool and enjoy.