Avera “Centennial Night” Sponsorship
The City of Yankton and the Meridian Bridge Centennial Celebration Committee are excited to announce Avera as the Premier Sponsor of the Aug. 8 “Centennial Night” celebration event. The generous $10,000 donation is intended to not only further promote the “Music at the Meridian” concert series, but to provide another Centennial Celebration event that would not be possible without this donation. One hundred years ago, the community of Yankton, state of South Dakota and tri-state area, celebrated the opening of the Meridian Bridge with a 7-day observation. As we now celebrate the Meridian Bridge in 2024, we are excited to announce the details of this Aug. 8th event.
This event made possible by Avera will be held in Riverside Park to provide a larger event space for the anticipated large crowds that will be drawn to this concert. Headlining the final “Centennial Night – Music at the Meridian” summer concert will be none other than South Dakota’s own Kory and the Fireflies. To further bolster this event, opening for Kory and the Fireflies will be the Hegg Brothers of Sioux Falls, founders of “Holiday Jam” and the band Spooncat.
This incredible community event will feature our exclusive beverage provider, Ben’s Brewing, along with a host of food vendors. As seen on Shark Tank, Cousins Maine Lobster will be making a special appearance at this event, bringing fresh Maine lobster food varieties as part of their tour across the U.S., with a special stop here in Yankton.
Having served the Yankton area since 1897, the Meridian literally “bridged” the gap to allow Avera to better serve the sick and injured and make healthcare more readily available. Avera’s mission “to make a positive impact in the lives and health of persons and communities guided by Christian values” was true then and still stands true today. Avera continues to impact our community in a positive way with their support of many city and community programs.
“The Meridian Bridge stands as a testament to the resourcefulness and vision of Yankton’s citizens. At the time it was built, it became a vital transportation link between Nebraska and South Dakota – while it also completed the Meridian Highway, an early north-south route from Winnipeg, Canada, to Mexico City, Mexico. One hundred years later, the bridge is just as vital but for different reasons. It has become one of the defining landmarks that people associate with Yankton. With its conversion to a recreational structure, it has become a focal point for walking, bicycling and community events. In this way, it is a living, breathing member of Yankton, and Avera is excited to support this centennial celebration of a bridge that has provided the city with more opportunities than the original builders could have ever envisioned.” – Doug Ekeren, Regional President and CEO of Avera Sacred Heart Hospital
On behalf of the City of Yankton and the Meridian Bridge Centennial Celebration Committee, thank you to Avera for your support of these historic Centennial Celebrations. Just as our community and tri-state area celebrated 100 years ago, we are excited to again celebrate with our community and surrounding area. This incredible “Centennial Night” event featuring Kory and the Fireflies would not be possible without the generous support of Avera.
