The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) and John Deere signed a memorandum of understanding Jan. 8 that ensures farmers’ and ranchers’ right to repair their own farm equipment. The MOU, signed at the 2023 AFBF Convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is the culmination of several years of discussions between AFBF and John Deere.

Grossenburg Implement, Inc., has acquired an additional John Deere dealership – Pedersen Machine in Beresford, SD. The acquisition of this location is part of a long-term growth strategy to add new markets and carry forward a tradition of service by investing in people, communities and buildings.

Eric Rosenbaum is presenting a discussion about the early settlers of the Big Sioux Township and their role in fur trading, agriculture, military supply and the growth of the area. The event, which will include the discovery of human remains along I-29, will take place Jan.

Mount Marty University Katelyn M. Chytka and Calli J. Davis, both of Elk Point, were named to the Fall 2022 Dean’s List Honorees. The Dean’s List Honoree is defined as a full-time undergraduate student completing a full-time load of graded coursework with a minimum term GPA of 3.5.

The Siouxland Humane Society is currently taking orders for its Gourmet Double Chocolate Caramel Apples, the perfect Valentine gift. The cost is $20 per apple with all proceeds going to the homeless animals in the area.

Once again a representative of Farmers Coop Society has approached the Union County Commissioners, Jan. 10, about purchasing a part of the fairground property. The portions of the fairgrounds included a stretch of land near the railroad tracks to incorporate weigh scales and the tractor pull area.

After an hour-long executive session Jan. 9, the Elk Point City Council approved a five percent market rate adjustment for all the city’s department heads and police officers.

The Elk Point-Jefferson School Board began the new year discussing the elementary playground, bullying and the nursing home auction. Come spring, the elementary playground will be fenced in to separate it from the football field parking lot.

In local efforts to help raise money for new park equipment for Tower Park in Jefferson, Jefferson Beer Supply is participating in the TAGG program. TAGG – Together A Greater Good – is a program that connects nonprofits, businesses and consumers for mutual benefit.

Governor Kristi Noem and legislators announced legislation to preserve agriculture. “Agriculture is by far our state’s largest industry, accounting for one out of every five jobs in South Dakota,” Noem said.