Freedom and independence took center stage in the American colonies this summer 247 years ago when 56 brave men signed a document that would have all but meant their execution if arrested by King George’s army. Today, Americans share in the luxury of celebrating those ideals that help define our great nation.

The biggest party in Jefferson is set to kick off next week. Jefferson Days of ’59 is a five-day event centered on downtown Jefferson July 12-16.

It was a battle between Union County and Clay County law enforcement officers June 24 in Jefferson. The battle field was the ballpark and the game – softball. The purpose, however, wasn’t to show which county team was the best, but to raise money for Special Olympics South Dakota.

A hearing was held Monday morning, June 26 for the unexpected death of a woman found in her Dakota Dunes apartment in April. The suspect Alfredo Castellanos-Rosales is accused of killing Jordan Beardshear.

The priorities which led Paddy Rigg to run for the Ward 2 city council seat haven’t changed since becoming mayor in May. Rigg still wishes to see community improvements, especially the park and dilapidated properties.

Older Returned Peace Corps Volunteers who served in Macedonia (now officially known as North Macedonia) from 2009 to 2012 have been gathering periodically around the United States at the homes of the returned Peace Corps Volunteers. The “get togethers” provide an opportunity to socialize, reminisce and visit other parts of the United States. Up to this point, the group has met in Colorado Springs, CO; Hampton, GA; Lake Forest, IL; and Ringoes, NJ. This year they chose to meet at Dave Johnson’s farm near Elk Point, SD.

Over 250 people attended the Elk Point Chamber Street Dance Saturday, June 24. People able to enjoy good food between all of Elk Point’s restaurants and great drinks served by area business between the Elk Point and Jefferson communities. They were treated to pleasing music provided by Madison Avenue featuring Elk Point native Ben Hanson while Mother Nature set the mood with an aesthetically pleasing sunset.

As a way to celebrate Father’s Day, Wel-Life residents were able to spend the morning outdoors fishing in the Elk Point City Pond on Saturday, June 17. Verlyn and Angie Portz were thanked for their help and for providing the poles and equipment for the residents to be able to fish. Other employees were also thanked for coming in on their day off to provide this experience for the residents.

A contest hosted by the VFW Auxiliary has a local winner. Margaret Breyfogle of Elk Point recently won 1st place at the South Dakota State level for the 2023 VFW Auxiliary Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest. State entries in the National contest will be judged at National Headquarters. A total of $34,000 will be awarded to 13 students with the 1st place National winner receiving a $15,000 scholarship. Winners will be announced during National Convention, along with the winners of the 3-Dimensional Patriotic Art Contest and Illustrating America. These contests, sponsored annually by the VFW Auxiliary, recognize up-and-coming artists and encourage patriotism in youth.

The city of Elk Point plans to extend their bike and pedestrian trail paths, which sparked a discussion by the Elk Point-Jefferson School Board June 12. The board approved an easement for the bike trail on and near their property.