An annual tradition, the much loved “Cookies, Cocoa and Santa” event, took place at the North Sioux City Library on Thursday, Dec. 14. It was hosted by the library’s staff and ran from 10am to 6pm with Santa Claus making stops to visit children at 10:30am and 5pm.

For 30 years Kary Collette, of McCook Lake, and her family have set aside a special time for what they call their annual cookie day. It is a baking tradition that occurs during the holidays. This year they gathered on Sunday, Dec. 17. Goodies were made and more importantly fun times were had with family.

Just shy of two hours, the Union County Board of County Commissioners met in regular session Dec. 12. Toward the beginning of the meeting, the commissioners approved closing the courthouse on Dec. 25 and 26 which follows the state government closure. They then moved the commission meeting to Wednesday, Dec. 27 at 8:30 a.m.

The Dakota Valley School District’s Back to School Plan was reviewed at the Board of Education meeting Dec. 11. The plan, which was adopted on Aug. 9, 2021 has been reviewed and adopted at the end of every school semester since it’s first adoption.

There are various opportunities being made available to generate interest for future seniors to work in the state of South Dakota or help fill the labor gap. While programs such as Build Dakota Scholarship and others have formed, there are other opportunities available on the local level to those looking forward to high school graduation.

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The green community sign board outside of Jones’ Food Center has been a staple in Elk Point for many years. Because of the age of the sign, the fate of it was discussed at the Elk Point City Council meeting Dec. 4.

It was a packed auditorium for the Panther’s 5th-8th grade winter band and vocal concert on Dec. 7. The students dressed up with festive flairs to perform for parents, friends and extended family. With seats filled to almost capacity at the start of the show, many had to stand for the duration of performances that were all filled with festive cheer.

Steve and Roxanne Gould will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary on Dec. 29.

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