I have recently returned from my winter trip to Arizona and am ready to assist the veterans in our county.

The COVID-19 virus has definitely changed the way we are doing business at the Charles Mix County Courthouse. The Veterans Service Office will remain open by appointment only. If you need to see me, please call my office or cell phone to set up an appointment. You will be granted access to the courthouse if you are healthy and pass the screening test.

The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System, which includes the Wagner Clinic, is requesting all unscheduled patients and those with flu-like symptoms call first. If you do not have a scheduled appointment or have flu like symptoms such as fever, cough and shortness of breath, call the Sioux Falls VA at 605-336-3230 EXT. 5001 or the Wagner Clinic at 605-481-2340.

For routine or non-urgent questions they ask that you use VA’s online tools. If you have a MyHealtheVet account you can message your provider with questions or order prescription refills.Veterans can also call the Sioux Falls VA pharmacy at 605- 336-3230 option 1 for pharmacy and your prescriptions will be mailed to you.

If you have a scheduled appointment and need a ride, the DAV Van is available. You will be screened for COVID-19 before you leave for your appointment.

With the “stay at home” policy, many of our aging veterans have very little or no contact with the outside world. Remember to use the Buddy Check system to check on the veterans in your community. Give them a call, text or send an email to see if they are healthy or need any assistance.

My office hours have not changed. My hours are 8:00 to 4:30 Monday and Tuesday and 8:00 to 12:00 on Wednesday. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, I am available 24/7 to assist you. I can be reached at the office at 605-487-7691 or on my cell phone at 605-481-1338.