Governor Kristi Noem formally requested a major disaster declaration from the President for 25 counties due to the severe flooding that occurred in South Dakota between June 16 and July 8, 2024. Governor Noem signed Executive Order 2024-06 declaring the disaster. According to the National Weather Service, the rain event that created this flooding was a 1,000-year event.

The Elk Point-Jefferson school district has a new website and on Tuesday, July 23 their live feed made it known that school was set to start in less than one month. That means enrollment for the 2023/24 school year is currently happening.

Nature camp for 8-10 year olds was held at Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve on July 23-25. Many attended and enjoyed time outside and indoors at the visitor center.

There’s still time to get your students scheduled for an annual wellness exam. Horizon Health is currently scheduling adolescent wellness checks at its 22 locations across South Dakota. Horizon’s dental locations offer mouth guards to protect your athletes during their sports seasons.

On July 15, 2024 the board of supervisors for the Dakota Dunes Community Improvement District (CID) had their regular meeting at 7 p.m. It was held at the Welcome Center on Sioux Point Road in Dakota Dunes.

The Dakota Valley School District annual Board of Education meeting was held on July 8, 2024. The meeting commenced promptly at 6:00 p.m.

As of Monday, July 22 a lot was still happening when it came to flood relief efforts and continued work in the impacted areas. The Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) was in town, heavy construction was underway and case by case re-entry was occurring in McCook Lake and North Sioux City.

The North Sioux City, South Dakota City Council Regular Meeting occurred on July 16, 2024. The meeting commenced with Mayor Patricia Teel calling it to order at 7:00 p.m. Seven members, including Kodi Benson, Gary Bogenrief, Jim Christenson, Joan Christiansen, Bob Davis, Lynn Hoffman, and Greg Meyer, were present, with Lonnie Green being the only absentee. Co-Interim City Administrator Andrew Nilges, City Finance Officer Amy Lilly, and City Attorney Sarah Kleber also attended.

The N.W. Iowa American Legion Chapter 241 riders have once again demonstrated their unwavering support for veterans in need. On July 21, 2024, the Riders came to the aid of Adam Spates, a local veteran and North Sioux City Police officer, by presenting him with a generous check to assist with his flood fund. Spate's family lost their home during the recent flood.

Dakota Valley had many talented students in attendance at the 2024 International HOSA Conference, in Houston, on June 26-29. The Panthers represented themselves well at the competition which is meant to offer inspiration and preparation to future healthcare leaders. Over 10,000 students, from around the globe, were on hand for the event.