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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A resolution to send a letter to Captain Jon Stahl, District 4 Commander of the Motor Carrier Division of the South Dakota Highway Patrol was approved at the Union County Board of County Commission meeting Jan. 24. This yearly resolution requests help from the South Dakota Highway Patrol to help enforce weight limits on county roads.

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) has confirmed an infestation of emerald ash borer (EAB) in Dakota Dunes. In response, DANR Secretary Hunter Roberts will extend the existing state Plant Pest Quarantine to include Union County.