An estimated 270 youth wrestlers were in Elk Point on Sunday, January 26, 2025 for Elk Point-Jefferson’s annual tournament. The event took place in the middle school and high school gyms with many volunteers on-hand.

The Elk Point Community Ambulance Board celebrated one of their own recently as they recognized Joann (Staum) Vinzant for her 35 years of service. A native of Elk Point, Vinzant joined the town’s ambulance team in the 1980s as an emergency medical technician (EMT). She later became a valued board member.

The Panther varsity wrestling squad had their work cut out from them as they faced strong competition on Saturday, January 25, 2025 for the DAK XII Conference Tournament. The event took place in Elk Point and was hosted by the Huskies.

On Friday, January 24, 2025 it was a home game for the Dakota Valley boys basketball against the Tri-Valley (TV) Mustangs. The Panthers kicked it in gear for the 2nd half after keeping things close in the first 2 quarters. The final was in DV’s favor by a score of 88-56.

Despite being indoors and digital, even the Panther esports teams fell victim to the arctic temperatures that plagued areas on January 20-21, 2025. While Dakota Valley only had late starts, some schools in South Dakota canceled which meant rescheduling occurred for a few gaming titles. Despite the weather, it did not distract the Panther’s ability to win. Once again, in week #6 of esports competition, DV strung together multiple victories to continue to be a threat for each and every opponent.

After strong showings by the girls Cteam and junior varsity squads, on Friday, January 24, 2025, the varsity Panther girls found themselves down early versus Tri-Valley. It was senior night and there was a great crowd to cheer on Dakota Valley as they rallied for a fierce victory.

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On January 21, 2025, the Union County Board of Commissioners convened for their regular session at the Courthouse in Elk Point, South Dakota. The meeting began promptly at 8:30 a.m. and was attended by Commissioners Michael Dailey, Tom Kimmel, Kevin Joffer, and Peggy Ustad.

It was a busy news day in regards to weather and politics on Monday, January 20, 2025. Arctic temperatures had Dakota Valley and Elk Point-Jefferson calling for late starts to the school day in order to keep morning commutes safe. The next President of the United States also took the oath of office in Washington D.C.

A strong conference rival, the Vermillion Tanagers, came to town on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 to take on the Elk Point-Jefferson boys basketball team. The two teams are members of the DAK 12 Conference and both are also aligned in Region 4A for Class A in South Dakota.