As of Monday, July 22 a lot was still happening when it came to flood relief efforts and continued work in the impacted areas. The Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) was in town, heavy construction was underway and case by case re-entry was occurring in McCook Lake and North Sioux City.

The North Sioux City, South Dakota City Council Regular Meeting occurred on July 16, 2024. The meeting commenced with Mayor Patricia Teel calling it to order at 7:00 p.m. Seven members, including Kodi Benson, Gary Bogenrief, Jim Christenson, Joan Christiansen, Bob Davis, Lynn Hoffman, and Greg Meyer, were present, with Lonnie Green being the only absentee. Co-Interim City Administrator Andrew Nilges, City Finance Officer Amy Lilly, and City Attorney Sarah Kleber also attended.

The N.W. Iowa American Legion Chapter 241 riders have once again demonstrated their unwavering support for veterans in need. On July 21, 2024, the Riders came to the aid of Adam Spates, a local veteran and North Sioux City Police officer, by presenting him with a generous check to assist with his flood fund. Spate's family lost their home during the recent flood.

Dakota Valley had many talented students in attendance at the 2024 International HOSA Conference, in Houston, on June 26-29. The Panthers represented themselves well at the competition which is meant to offer inspiration and preparation to future healthcare leaders. Over 10,000 students, from around the globe, were on hand for the event.

The Union County Board of Commissioners convened for the regular session on July 9, 2024, at the Courthouse in Elk Point, SD. Members Michael Dailey, Kevin Joffer, Richard Headid, and Tom Kimmel attended.

Local healing practitioners are partnering to bring Siouxland a relaxing evening that will include a beautiful sound bath, meditation, Reiki energy, and healing. The event is open to the community. Free will donations of any amount will be accepted at the door, or they can be sent to the Siouxland Recovery Fund.

Milton Ustad passed away on July 13, 2024, at the age of 79. Ustad’s influence on this community was profound, as demonstrated by his seventeen and a half years of dedicated service as a Union County Commissioner.

.

As of Monday, July 15 the flood relief efforts in the local area were going strong. A special update was issued regarding “extremely heavy construction” happening on Northshore Drive for the next 5-7 days. This matter has caused much more limited access to the area. Northshore Drive’s impacted area can only have foot traffic with no contractors or vehicles allowed until July 21.

Hot temperatures did not keep people away from the town of Jefferson on July 11-14 as the town celebrated Jefferson Days of ‘59. Fun activities and camaraderie was had throughout the mornings, afternoons and evenings for this annual event.