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Thomas (right) and Sydney Becker reveal a display case dedicated to coach Dan Smeins and his efforts in bringing hockey to Luverne. The case was dedicated Saturday, Jan. 10, in memory of Craig Becker and is hanging in the Blue Mound Ice Arena.
Thomas and Sydney Becker reveal a display case dedicated to coach Dan Smeins and his efforts in bringing hockey to Luverne. The case was dedicated Saturday, Jan. 10, in memory of Craig Becker and is hanging in the Blue Mound Ice Arena.

Luverne honors hockey roots

Luverne’s hockey program started 47 years ago with humble roots and grew into a strong school-sanctioned sport, thanks to coach Dan Smeins and others who saw his vision.

Faithful to the end ... dog alerts rescuers

The Luverne Fire Department was called to rescue a dog from the ice at the Veterans Home Pond Tuesday morning. 

Patriot boys’ basketball team wins two games, remains undefeated at 10-0

The H-BC boys’ basketball team netted three road wins in the past week to remain undefeated for the season.

Weber won't seek re-election to Minnesota Senate this fall

“I had originally said, in 2012, when I was elected, that I would serve eight to 10 years. This year will be my 14th,” he announced in a press release Tuesday.

Building permits show growth in Luverne

One way to measure a community’s growth over time is to track the number of building permits issued for construction.

The city of Luverne issued fewer building permits in 2025 than in the prior year, but the permitted projects still represented a respectable list.

LHS boys net 56-52 win against St. James

The Luverne boys’ basketball team hung on to a slim lead to claim a 56-52 win against the St. James Saints Friday, Jan. 9, at home.

In a game of back-and-forth runs the Cardinals were able to hold off a late push by the Saints to win by four points.

Rock County opts to be shotgun only, hearing set for Feb. 17

Rock County will not follow state law allowing rifles to be used during the November deer hunting season.

Only shotguns will be permitted if commissioners adopt an ordinance opting out of the state law that went into effect Jan. 1.

Boys’ hockey record lifts to 15-2

The Luverne boys’ hockey team netted two wins in the past week, improving their season record to 15-2.

The Cardinals skated past Minnesota River 7-3 at home Saturday, Jan. 10, and iced the Windom Eagles 9-1 on the road Monday, Jan. 12.

LHS begins mock trial 2026 season

Student interest in mock trial remains strong at Luverne High School as the sole representative of southwest Minnesota competing during the 2026 season.

County at a Glance Jan. 15, 2026

Meetings

Compassionate Friends Group grief support group, loss of a child/grandchild, will meet at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19, at the Luverne Area Community Foundation, 102 E. Main Street in Luverne. 

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