Valentine’s Day is the annual reminder for couples to express their love and classrooms to host student exchanges of candy, cards and trinkets. Everyone celebrates cupid’s holiday in their own special way. Some make no fuss, while others go big.

On Jan. 27, 2013, Chris and Katrina Waples stood at the door and flipped their open sign together. They made a promise to each other on that day, if their business made it to 10 years, they would go on a week-long vacation together. That time has come. Dreamworks Collision Center just celebrated its 10th anniversary.

Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in America and it has seen increased popularity in the local area. According to the Association of Pickleball Professionals, in 2022, there were 36.5 million people taking part in this growing paddle sport.

The Dakota Valley One Act cast and crew took to the stage for regional competition on Tuesday, Jan. 24 at Vermillion High School. The ensemble placed 3rd overall and just missed making a repeat state appearance as they came in behind 1st place Beresford and 2nd place Elk-Point Jefferson.

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Colorado State University Brooke Carlson, a Dakota Valley 2022 Graduate, made the Dean’s List with a 4.0 GPA. She’s studying Mechanical Engineering in the Walter Scott Jr. College of Engineering program.

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Recently the Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve, which is a staple in the community and an enjoyable place for locals and out-of-towners, underwent updates and renovations to the visitor center and trail systems. The upgrades included new exhibits and new interpretive signs.

The South Dakota Department of Education’s division of Child and Adult Nutrition Services is seeking local sponsors to assist with running a federally-funded program that provides nutritious meals and snacks to children in low-income areas during the summer months. Community organizations, nonpro_ts, schools and tribal and local governments can apply to be sponsors if they operate in low-income areas, serve a group of mostly low-income children or operate a summer camp with a high proportion of low-income participants.

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