The first ever South Dakota National Civics Bee regional competition was held in downtown Sioux City, on April 7, 2026, with multiple Panthers competing. Held at the RE/MAX City Centre, and hosted by the Dakota Valley Business Council, students were quizzed on their knowledge of government and history in front of a crowd and three judges.

The North Sioux City Commission moved through flood‑recovery work, resident concerns and spring business during its April 7 meeting, while also taking time to recognize a longtime police officer for his service. Mayor Chris Bogenrief presided with commissioners Julie Burhoop, Lynn Hoffman, Jessica Strain and Vincent Tucker present, along with Finance Officer Amy Lilly and City Attorney Sarah Kleber. Strain presented Police Chief Richard Headid with a plaque honoring his 30 years with the department. Headid also addressed the ongoing road closure from the east side of Northshore to Penrose, saying enforcement will continue as reconstruction work progresses.

The Jefferson City Council moved through a full agenda Monday night as members approved licenses, reviewed department updates and heard early plans for this summer’s Days of ’59 celebration. Mayor Padraic Rigg presided over the April 6 meeting with council members Tony Boulware, Jason Casper, Mark LaFleur, John Lokhorst, Martin Nelkie and Michael Stokely present.

A strong community does not happen by accident. It takes good people, steady effort, and thoughtful planning.

A moment of panic at home led an Elk Point mother to create a new special needs safety pro‑gram now being used by local first responders. Earlier this year, Kelli Kappenman discovered that the front door of her home was open and her son Thomas, who is on the autism spectrum, was no longer inside.

William Shorma of Dakota Dunes said he will not seek re‑election to the South Dakota House of Representatives and instead will run for the Union County Commission seat representing District 1. District 1 includes Dakota Dunes, where residents will vote in the June 2, 2026, primary.

Representatives from the City of North Sioux City, Union County, the McCook Lake Association, and the McCook Lake Izaak Walton League are meeting regularly and working together to support the long-term sustainability and future of McCook Lake. This includes ongoing recovery efforts following the 2024 flood. These groups recognize the significant impact the flood has had on the lake and surrounding properties. Cleanup and recovery efforts are ongoing, and there is a shared commitment to continuing this work as conditions allow and resources become available.

My name is Troy Redler, and I am an‑nouncing my candidacy for the South Dakota House of Representa‑tives in District 17 for the 2026 election cycle. As a small business owner and father, I felt it was the right time to step forward and serve.

William Shorma of Dakota Dunes said he will not seek re‑election to the South Dakota House of Representa‑tives and instead will run for the Union Coun‑ty Commission seat rep‑resenting District 1.