State/Local
VPD introduces Blue Envelope Program
The Vermillion Police Department has recently implemented a new program to help bridge gaps between officers and local community members. The NPS-AID Blue Envelope Program is geared towards individuals with specialized needs, who may face communication barriers when dealing with distressing situations. Vermillion Police Chief Crystal Brady emphasized that […]
Clay County cuts funds
On Sept. 29, the Clay County Commission approved funding cuts for the 2027 budget in a 3-2 vote for multiple non-mandated programs and county employees pay, saving about 24,000 dollars. Non-mandated agencies are services the commission can choose to provide. These organizations include: Feeding Vermillion, South Dakota Teen Court Program, Public […]
From The Volante to Congress: Dusty Johnson’s USD roots
U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson attended the University of South Dakota from 1995 to 1999, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in political science. While at USD, Johnson held several positions at The Volante, including reporter, section editor and business manager. Being involved with The Volante was one of my best experiences in college. As a reporter, […]
Building a family away from home
With the holiday season approaching, one student organization has made it its mission to connect with residents of the Vermillion Care Center. The Student Engagement & Refinement for Volunteering Empowerment (SERVE) organization’s Adopt-A-Grandparent volunteer program has made an impact on the environment of the Care Center, especially over the holidays. […]
Samudzi’s pastor: “We shouldn’t be doing this”
When Nate Samudzi reported for a required immigration check-in Sept. 23, he expected to return home to Yankton later that day. Instead, he was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and transferred to a detention facility in Minnesota, where he remains as legal proceedings continue. The detention marks the second time Samudzi […]
SD rolls out new drivers license
On Sept. 3, 2026, residents of South Dakota received the announcement that their driver’s licenses and identification cards will be replaced. New cards will have updated security features and a new image on the front. The security features are intended to further prevent identity theft, fraud and other forms of identity-related crime. University of South […]
A growing season for the Vermillion Community Garden
The Vermillion Community Garden president, Stephanie Nefas, hosted a mason jar terrarium and hanging planter work day on May 2 to fundraise for the upcoming layout renovations. Their goal this summer is to revitalize the community grown food pantry plot area. “We had an amazing master gardener join us last year to increase production from […]
From Earth Day to Earth Month
Greening Vermillion kicked off Earth Days starting April 18 with the annual Volunteer Day at Spirit Mound Historic Prairie, and runs until April 26. Vermillion Earth Days are free community wide events and activities hosted across town and on campus. Geoffrey Gray-Lobe is the Clay County Commissioner and is the community organizer for the Sierra […]
Music museum celebrates 250 Years of American music
As the date draws near to America’s 250th anniversary this summer, many people and organizations are celebrating the event in their own way. Starting last month, Vermillion’s own National Music Museum opened an exhibit titled “Of Thee I Sing,” which aims to celebrate the electric history of American music and instruments. On display are a […]
Hundreds Gather for No Kings Protest
Over 300 people gathered in downtown Vermillion for the No Kings Protest on March 28. The group started at the corner of East Cherry and Pine Street, and walked their way through USD’s campus, ending at Ratingen Platz. Betty Smith was one member of a subcommittee that helped host the event. Volunteers served as security, […]