The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) launched a new online tool to help farmers and ranchers better navigate the farm loan application process. This uniform application process will help to ensure all farm loan applicants receive equal support and have a consistent customer experience with USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) regardless of their individual circumstances.

.

Preference points are now available for purchase in Go Outdoors South Dakota and we want to share two important reminders: Preference points that were obtained during the first draw process, due to an unsuccessful application and choosing to purchase a preference point, are NOT eligible for purchase during this online preference point purchase period. These respective seasons’ preference points will NOT be displayed for purchase as they will be automatically applied to your account.

The Siouxland Humane Society offers an annual “Paws ‘N Claus” Fundraiser to support the homeless and often neglected animals in the area. It will be held at a new location this year, Ho-Chunk Centre – 600 4th Street, Suite 109, near Wells Fargo Bank. Parking is available in the bank parking lot or on 4th Street. Paws ‘N Claus features professional photographs and is a great opportunity to get new family photos with or without your pet and with or without Santa. This year we will have the Grinch available on Saturday, Nov. 19 and Sunday, Nov. 20.

South Dakota’s Public Utilities Commissioners (PUC) advise natural gas customers to prepare for rising prices in the coming months. Customers concerned about increased heating expenses this winter should take steps now to ensure bills remain manageable.

The North Sioux City Parks & Recreation held their Trunk or Treat. Prizes were given for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners. The 1st place winner was Para 911, 2nd Dr. Seuss and 3rd skeleton 4-wheeler. Over 250 children participated in the event held Oct. 30 at North Sioux City City Hall parking lot.

.

.

The Dakota Valley Administrators had many exciting things to report on for the School Board meeting Oct. 10. Kristi Maloney, Elementary Principal Maloney’s report included the 54 students that were named the September MVPs. The students were featured in last week’s Dakota Dunes/North Sioux

Halloween decorating and scarecrows on mailboxes are an annual tradition on the Prairie Bend cul-de-sac in the Meadows neighborhood of Dakota Dunes. Residents Kathy Wrage, Valerie Danielson, Jeanie Keating and more get all of the neighbors involved to bring a festive atmosphere to the Halloween season.