The Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve is always a place of sanctuary and contentment. It was also a site to get into the spirit of the season thanks to the state park’s annual event known as Homestead Holidays. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays during the dates of December 6th to December 22nd, a truly beautiful array of holiday lights and decorations could be observed by walking the grounds from 5 pm to 9 pm.

The holiday season is a time of joy, reflection, and togetherness. This year, the Wel-Life Assisted Living Center embraced this spirit with a heartwarming Christmas celebration filled with music, games, and a sense of community.

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The Union County Board of Commissioners convened for a regular session at 8:30 a.m., with four members in attendance: Michael Dailey, Kevin Joffer, Tom Kimmel, and Peggy Ustad. The meeting commenced with a motion by Commissioner Kimmel, seconded by Commissioner Ustad, to approve the agenda, which included adding a VA contract to be signed, and removing a motion regarding Jerry Miller's resignation and Kathy Zenner's appointment.

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The Elk Point-Jefferson Board of Education convened for a regular session on December 9, 2024. The meeting commenced at 5:00 p.m. under the leadership of Vice-President Sayler. It was attended by Board Members Tim Brewer, Kyle Hanson, Noelle Jacobs, and Travis Geary, who joined later in the meeting. Key administrative figures in attendance included Superintendent Philip Schonebaum, Business Manager Heather Watterson, and several school principals and coordinators.

Elk Point-Jefferson School District recently held high school auditions for the upcoming 2024/25 one-act season. The Huskies are set to perform the play called Bobby Wilson Can Eat His Own Face by Don Zolidis. Kirsten Colt is the EPJ advisor for one-act and is excited about this show.

On December 2, 2024, the Jefferson City Council convened for its regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. under the leadership of Mayor Paddy Rigg. The council members present included Tony Boulware, Jason Casper, Mark LaFleur, John Lokhorst, and John Van Beest, with additional attendance from Sabrina LaFleur-Sayler, Michealeen Roark, and Dustin Sharkey.

On December 2, 2024, the Elk Point City Council convened for its regular session, which Mayor Deb McCreary presided over. Council members Lance Penfield, Amanda Abraham, Renee Irwin, Ben Irlbeck, and Kenneth VonHaden attended the meeting, while Kris Hurlbert was absent. Key city officials present included City Attorney Craig K. Thompson, City Administrator Derek Tuttle, Police Chief Jacob Limoges, Finance Officer Erika Hammitt, and Public Works Director Trevor Job.

If you have a passion for gardening and soil health or simply want to learn more about the natural world around us, the Union County Primetime Garden Series is the perfect opportunity for you. This ongoing educational series is presented by the South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension, designed for community members eager to cultivate their knowledge while fostering connections with fellow gardening enthusiasts.