Recently the Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve, which is a staple in the community and an enjoyable place for locals and out-of-towners, underwent updates and renovations to the visitor center and trail systems. The upgrades included new exhibits and new interpretive signs.

The South Dakota Department of Education’s division of Child and Adult Nutrition Services is seeking local sponsors to assist with running a federally-funded program that provides nutritious meals and snacks to children in low-income areas during the summer months. Community organizations, nonpro_ts, schools and tribal and local governments can apply to be sponsors if they operate in low-income areas, serve a group of mostly low-income children or operate a summer camp with a high proportion of low-income participants.

A resolution to send a letter to Captain Jon Stahl, District 4 Commander of the Motor Carrier Division of the South Dakota Highway Patrol was approved at the Union County Board of County Commission meeting Jan. 24. This yearly resolution requests help from the South Dakota Highway Patrol to help enforce weight limits on county roads.

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) has confirmed an infestation of emerald ash borer (EAB) in Dakota Dunes. In response, DANR Secretary Hunter Roberts will extend the existing state Plant Pest Quarantine to include Union County.

Chad Honomichl, 48, of Elk Point, SD passed away on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023 at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls.

Governor Kristi Noem, Representative Mary Fitzgerald and Senator John Wiik announced HB 1075, which will deliver the largest tax cut in South Dakota history by eliminating the sales tax on groceries. This proposal would put $102 million back in the pockets of South Dakotans.

Due to a newly funded program through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and South Dakota general fund dollars, the Elk Point Community Ambulance will receive new equipment. Through the grant and funds granted by Governor Kristi Noem, a total $1.7 million are available to ambulance services across the state. On Jan. 27, the Elk Point ambulance will receive Telemedicine in Motion through Avel eCare.

Southern Union County Leader-Courier was there to cover it all. January The year began with the Union County Board of County Commissioners needing to redefi ne the lines of their districts due to the 2020 census.

For over 15 years, Elk Point and surrounding communities have supported the local blood bank, LifeServe Blood Center, with at least six blood donation opportunities per year. Over the course of January, one blood drive was hosted to support the 150- plus local hospitals that LifeServe Blood Center serves. They collected 28 units of blood which has the ability to save up to 84 local lives.

South Dakota FFA state officers in conjunction with 49 district FFA officers hosted over 40 legislatures and special guests for a legislative breakfast to connect about current trends in agriculture, education, FFA and also the political process on Thursday, Jan. 12 at the Izaak Walton League facility in Pierre, SD.