The “in like a lion” phrase typically applies to early March, but it is certainly fitting in this, the third week of April, as cool and blustery conditions continue to make the weather conditions feel anything like “a lamb.” Winds are expected to be sustained for much of the week, with highs reaching only into the 50s through the weekend. The statue pictured here stands at Freeman’s Lions Park.

Freeman Public Superintendent Jake Tietje sets the pitching rubber at Freeman's softball field Monday morning, April 17 in advance of this evening's home softball game between the Freeman/Marion/Freeman Academy Phoenix and Bon Homme. First pitch is set for 5 p.m. This will be the only Phoenix softball game in Freeman, although a quadrangular is scheduled to be held in Marion April 22.

This building was located where Casey’s is today and was part of a small settlement known as “Freedom” just east of Freeman. The building served as a service station and small cafe through the 1950s, before Freeman grew toward the highway. 

The cast of Freeman High School's "The Lion King, Jr." assembles for a photo prior to their matinee presented to the student body Friday afternoon. The popular story was presented again to the public Friday night and will be a second time Saturday night, April 20 starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door.

Freeman Lions Club members Shirley and Delmar Hofer and Alan Ries assemble sandwiches for Soup Day being held at the Freeman Senior Citizens Center today, Friday, April 14. The trio was among a larger group of volunteers preparing to serve the public from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. In addition to ham and cheese and tuna sandwiches, the menu includes chili, noodle soup, hot dogs and chili dogs, as well as pie and a drink — all for a free-will donation that will go toward Freeman Lions Club projects. 

Martin Sieverding goes over a start list at the Menno Relays Thursday morning, April 13. Two dozen varsity teams and 11 middle school teams are taking part in what is, for many, their first track meet of the season. With more teams than usual, the meet is expected to last into the evening.

Businesses, organizations, groups and individuals who would like to help support the Class of 2023 from Freeman Academy, Freeman Public and Menno may do so by sponsoring a graduate in another banner salute that will begin in May and continue through June. Fifty-seven seniors from the three schools — and their sponsors — will be highlighted on banners displayed on Sixth Street in Freeeman and on Fifth Street in Menno.

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JEREMY WALTNER - PUBLISHER Maybe it’s because of the time of year or maybe it’s because of the increased cost of eggs, but Freeman Mayor Michael Walter told the Freeman City Council at its most recent meeting last week that he has been asked my multiple people whether raising chickens in Freeman city limits is permitted. No, the mayor said at the first of two regular monthly meetings held Tuesday, April 4: “You cannot have chickens in town.”

Naomi Hofer, 93, of Bridgewater, S.D., left this earth for her heavenly home on April 3, 2023. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, April 14 at First Baptist Church of Emery, S.D. Visitation will be Thursday, April 13 at the church from 5 to 7 p.m., with a time of sharing at 7 p.m.