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An annual tradition, the much loved “Cookies, Cocoa and Santa” event, took place at the North Sioux City Library on Thursday, Dec. 14. It was hosted by the library’s staff and ran from 10am to 6pm with Santa Claus making stops to visit children at 10:30am and 5pm.

For 30 years Kary Collette, of McCook Lake, and her family have set aside a special time for what they call their annual cookie day. It is a baking tradition that occurs during the holidays. This year they gathered on Sunday, Dec. 17. Goodies were made and more importantly fun times were had with family.

Just shy of two hours, the Union County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session Dec. 12. Toward the beginning of the meeting, the commissioners approved closing the courthouse on Dec. 25 and 26 which follows the state government closure. They then moved the commission meeting to Wednesday, Dec. 27 at 8:30 a.m.

The Dakota Valley School District’s Back to School Plan was reviewed at the Board of Education meeting Dec. 11. The plan, which was adopted on Aug. 9, 2021 has been reviewed and adopted at the end of every school semester since it’s first adoption.

It was a packed auditorium for the Panther’s 5th-8th grade winter band and vocal concert on Dec. 7. The students dressed up with festive flairs to perform for parents, friends and extended family. With seats filled to almost capacity at the start of the show, many had to stand for the duration of performances that were all filled with festive cheer.

Steve and Roxanne Gould will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary on Dec. 29.

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The holidays are here, however many Dakota Valley parents are looking ahead to spring as they volunteer their time to make the Panther’s After Prom, in 2024, a success. The event is scheduled to follow the formal dance on April 13, 2024 and go throughout the night into the early morning hours.

For the next two weeks, the Dakota Dunes/ North Sioux City Times will have early deadlines due to the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. For those wishing to submit any announcements, advertisements or legals for the Dec.