South Dakota senior citizens and citizens with disabilities have until July 1 to apply for sales or property tax refunds under South Dakota’s Tax Refund Program. Under the program, certain individuals are able to receive a portion of the sales or property taxes they paid from the previous year if they meet the eligibility requirements.

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) and the South Dakota Farm Bureau (SDFB) are proud to recognize longstanding South Dakota family farms and ranches through the Century Farm and Ranch program.

When the Union County Commissioners were discussing courthouse expansions, one phase included relocating the radio tower and generator. While the expansion has been put on hold, the commissioners continued discussions on moving the tower May 2 at their meeting.

The 2023 Dakota Valley prom dance was held on Saturday, April 29. Seniors, juniors and underclassmen who were invited by upperclassmen dressed in their formal best for the event. The theme for this year’s prom was “Vegas” and masters of ceremonies were Madelyn Hamm and Avery Mozak.

While inflation is hitting the pocketbooks of many people across the United States, residents in Union County are feeling the sting as well. So much so, that area food banks are seeing significant changes in their numbers.

Area patients now have even more options for life saving diagnostic tools thanks to CNOS and the new Imaging Center expansion at their Dakota Dunes Clinic location. “The new imaging center is a significant milestone for CNOS patient care,” said Steve DeVoe, Chief Operating Officer at CNOS.

Governor Kristi Noem and the Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) announced additional financial assistance for businesses and apprentices to develop new and expand existing Registered Apprenticeship Programs. The effort will invest $7.9 million over three years to administer apprenticeship grants.

The Union County Board of Commissioners met as the Board of Equalization April 25 and reviewed 11 properties. Out of the 11 properties four were recommended to have no changes and remain the same as previously assessed.

The academic achievements of the best and brightest students from the Class of 2023 were recognized recently at the 33rd Annual Academic Excellence Recognition luncheon. Governor Kristi Noem and the Associated School Boards of South Dakota (ASBSD) honored students who were identified as the top one percent of their senior class, from the state’s Public, Private and Tribal/ BIE schools on Monday, April 24.

The Dakota Valley spring concert was held on Friday, April 21 in the DV Performing Arts Center. Students in grades 7-12th, who are involved in choir and band, took the stage to perform. Ensemble and solo pieces occurred throughout the night.