Category: Great Plains

Crime, Justice, South Dakota1 Comment

Union County jury convicts Sioux City man of sexual abuse of minor

Gary Dickson

Late afternoon Thursday, Aug. 15, a Union County jury found Troy Cooke guilty of one of two counts of sexual contact with a child under the age of 13. The verdict came after barely one hour of deliberation.

Troy Donald Cook, 51, of Sioux City, Iowa was originally charged on March 27, 2024, by a Union County grand jury with one charge of sexual contact with a child under the age of 13, a class 3 felony and two separate charges of bestiality, both class 6 felonies. Continue reading Union County jury convicts Sioux City man of sexual abuse of minor

Iowa, TransportationLeave a comment

Three-vehicle accident near Kingsley sends two to hospital in serious condition

Gary Dickson

A three-vehicle accident involving an SUV, a pickup, and a semi-truck occurred in Woodbury County. The SUV failed to yield at a stop sign, resulting in a collision. The SUV driver and passenger sustained serious injuries and were taken to the hospital, while no other injuries were reported. Emergency personnel responded to the scene. Continue reading Three-vehicle accident near Kingsley sends two to hospital in serious condition

economic development, Nebraska, SiouxlandLeave a comment

Visitors flowing in to kayak and tube at Norfolk’s new North Fork Whitewater Park

Gary Dickson

The North Fork Whitewater Park in Norfolk, Nebraska, has drawn a steady flow of visitors since its opening in June. The park features engineered rapids for activities such as kayaking and river surfing, attracting visitors from nearby states. The $3.5 million renovation project aims to revitalize the downtown area and has already generated increased interest and investment in the city. Continue reading Visitors flowing in to kayak and tube at Norfolk’s new North Fork Whitewater Park

Government, Iowa, PoliticsLeave a comment

Iowa Lottery announces record annual sales

Gary Dickson

The Iowa Lottery reported a record $489.9 million in sales for the 2024 fiscal year, representing a 1.7% increase from the previous year. Despite a slight decrease in proceeds to the state, prizes to players reached a record $312.6 million, and lottery sales commissions to Iowa businesses grew by 2%. The highest-selling lottery products were scratch games, followed by Powerball and Mega Millions. Proceeds support important state causes, including the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund and programs for law enforcement and firefighters. Dana Wingert, Des Moines chief of police, commended the lottery’s efforts to promote National Gambling Awareness Month and provide services for gambling addiction disorders. Continue reading Iowa Lottery announces record annual sales

Agriculture, economic development, Environment, NebraskaLeave a comment

Nebraska pitched as possible destination for ‘climate migrants’

Gary Dickson

Climate change is expected to drive a mass migration from coastal areas due to rising sea levels and extreme weather. This presents an opportunity for rural Midwest communities like Nebraska to revitalize and attract new residents. Initiatives such as enhancing quality of life and promoting soil health hubs are seen as ways to prepare for potential climate migrants. Continue reading Nebraska pitched as possible destination for ‘climate migrants’

Crime, Government, South DakotaLeave a comment

Union County Sheriff’s Activity Log

Gary Dickson

The first-ever Union County Sheriff’s Activity Log is now shared with readers. The publisher and editor of the Siouxland Observer is grateful for Sheriff Prouty making the information available. While more detail is desired, its availability marks progress towards transparency. The hope is for similar transparency from the North Sioux City Police. Continue reading Union County Sheriff’s Activity Log

IowaLeave a comment

Iowa pheasant population survey begins Aug. 1

Gary Dickson

Iowa DNR staff will conduct a statewide pheasant survey between Aug. 1-15. The fall forecast will be based on this annual roadside count, predicting lower numbers this year. The survey, conducted since 1962, covers over 6,000 miles of rural, gravel roads and includes data on various wildlife species. Results will be available online in early September. Iowa’s pheasant season begins Oct. 26. Continue reading Iowa pheasant population survey begins Aug. 1

Crime, Government, South DakotaLeave a comment

Clay County Sheriff’s Department Incident Reports

Gary Dickson

Between June 28 and July 26, 2024, the Sheriff’s Office dealt with various incidents, including domestic assault, medical emergencies, transport of inmates, vehicle crashes, and more. The deputies responded promptly, ensuring public safety and addressing law enforcement concerns within the jurisdiction. Continue reading Clay County Sheriff’s Department Incident Reports

Education, Iowa, JusticeLeave a comment

WITCC settles the second of two human trafficking lawsuits

Gary Dickson

Western Iowa Tech Community College has settled two federal lawsuits alleging human trafficking, paying a total of $5.3 million to students from Brazil and Chile. The college’s president took responsibility for problems with the J-1 visa program, which allegedly led to students working in meat processing plants. Defendants include the college, employees, and companies. Continue reading WITCC settles the second of two human trafficking lawsuits