Alfredo Castellanos-Rosales murder trial begins

With jury selection on June 12-13, 2025, Elk Point’s courtroom for the state’s case versus Alfredo Castellanos-Rosales in the murder of Jordan Beardshear was at full capacity. On Monday, June 16, 2025 lawyers appeared more than ready to address the jury in opening statements. As the morning progressed, state prosecutors began calling their witnesses to the stand in what is expected to be a multi-day trial that could go into next week or potentially July.

Koch is new Jefferson City Attorney

The Jefferson City Council met for its regular session at City Hall, with Mayor Padraic Rigg presiding. Council members Tony Boulware, Jason Casper, John Lokhorst, Martin Nelkie, and Michael Stokely were present. The meeting began with procedural approvals, including the agenda and minutes from the previous session on May 5. The financial report was reviewed, showing a total fund balance of $336,032.57 as of May 31. Following the discussion, the council approved the financial statement.

EP Council approves facility study

The Elk Point City Council convened for its regular meeting at City Hall, with Mayor Deb McCreary presiding. All council members— Abraham, Irwin, Irlbeck, Penfield, and Hurlbert—were present, along with City Attorney Thompson, City Administrator Tuttle, Finance Officer Hammitt, Police Chief Limoges, and Public Works Director Job.

EP United Parish holds community celebration

The Elk Point United Parish held a celebration for all on Sunday, June 1, 2025. Attendance was high for the outdoor church service and multitude of fun activities that followed. Pastor Rick Andrus and his spouse have been a part of the Elk Point United Parish family for almost 24 months now and were thrilled with the number of people at the celebration. Since arriving they have seen significant growth with the church.

Union County hires Stokely as new VSO

The Union County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on May 27, 2025, at the Union County Courthouse in Elk Point, South Dakota. The meeting began at 8:30 a.m., with all commissioners—Dailey, Joffer, Ballard, Kimmel, and Ustad—present to review county operations, budget concerns, infrastructure projects, and ordinance updates.

Leichtenberg is EPJ MS/HS Teacher of the Year

Shayla Leichtenberg was honored to be named this year’s “Middle School/High School Teacher of the Year” for the Elk Point-Jefferson School District in April of 2025. Leichtenberg is currently an art educator at EPJ for Huskies in middle school, as well as grades 9th-12th. She is also the head cheerleading coach and the yearbook advisor.

Elk Point-Jefferson school district awards

On April 28, 2025 the Elk Point-Jefferson school district gathered teachers and staff to celebrate multiple earned awards from the 2024/25 school year. It was a fun evening of accolades as many received service recognition. The night highlighted the countless dedication by educators and staff who walk the school halls at EPJ. Per Huskies Superintendent Philip Schonebaum the following awards were distributed: Sydney Bosquet was named “Education support Professional of the Year” and Donna Mau received the honor of “Support Staff of the Year.” Community Circle of Excellence was awarded to: Union Bean Coffee and Structured Learning Center with Karissa Munce, Matt Munce and Cassandra Schmith receiving recognition. The “Helping Hands” award went to Larry Wilcox. Shayla Leichtenberg received the honor of “Middle School/High School Teacher of the Year”.