EPJ delivers standout storytelling, theatre

South Dakota’s state oral interpretation festival, for high schoolers, was held on December 5-6, 2025. The event took place in Watertown and Elk Point-Jefferson was represented at state by Carter Heckathorn, Austin Clercx, Jaxon Vande Vegte, Lexi McDermott and Stella Bonnema. All of these pupils punched their tickets to state after qualifying at regionals in November.

County authorizes budget changes

The Union County Board of Commissioners met Dec. 9 at the court‑house, working through a wide agenda that ranged from facility upgrades and highway easements to tax abatements and budget adjustments.

EPJ approves audit report, policy updates

The Elk Point-Jefferson School Dis‑trict Board of Education met Dec. 8, approving routine business, personnel changes, and policy updates while high‑lighting student achievements across the district.

A Message from Mayor Chris Bogenrief - A Year of Progress

As 2025 comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the progress we’ve made this year. It’s been a year of momentum, investment, and continued recovery - all focused on serving our residents and planning for a strong future.

ARK Kids Free Shopping Spree

A beloved North Sioux City tradition returned Dec. 6 as ARK United Methodist Church hosted its an‑nual Kids Free Shop‑ping Spree, drawing dozens of families for a day of holiday cheer and generosity.

St. Paul Lutheran grant aids Food Pantry

Dorothy Langle, a member of St. Paul Lu‑theran Church, secured a $250 Thrivent grant that was used to sup‑port the Elk Point Food Pantry.

Santa Claus is coming to town

Santa is coming to Horizon Health Elk Point. Members of the Elk Point community are invited to a merry and bright opportunity to get into the holiday spirit with our special visitor.

Dakota Valley bands shine in holiday concert

A large crowd was seated at Dakota Valley’s Performing Arts Center (PAC) on Thursday, December 4, 2025 for the Panther’s holiday band concert. Student musicians in grades 5th-12th took the stage to perform festive pieces for all to enjoy.

Elk Point council swears in Penfield

Mayor Deb McCreary and the Elk Point City Council met Dec. 1 to swear in a new member, approve financial claims, and advance work on the city’s lagoon aeration project.

Jefferson weighs road purchase

Mayor Padraic Rigg and the Jefferson City Council met Dec. 1 to review finances, dis‑cuss property issues, and approve an event license for Bud’s Bar.