Category: Politics

Education, Government, Healthcare, PoliticsLeave a comment
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Little tracking, wide variability permeate the teams tasked with stopping school shootings

Gary Dickson

Iowa students rallied for gun regulation after a school shooting, reflecting rising concerns about school safety. Advocacy for threat assessment teams, aimed at identifying potential threats, has grown since tragedies in Florida. However, inconsistencies and potential biases in these teams’ operations raise concerns about fairness and the treatment of at-risk students. Continue reading Little tracking, wide variability permeate the teams tasked with stopping school shootings

Government, Justice, PoliticsLeave a comment
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Iowa House panel advances bill limiting release of police mugshots

Gary Dickson

A subcommittee in the Iowa House passed a bill restricting public access to mugshots of arrested individuals until after conviction, with certain public safety exceptions. Lobbyists expressed concerns over potential issues in the bill’s language and recommended amendments. The bill aims to protect arrested individuals from judgment before legal proceedings. Continue reading Iowa House panel advances bill limiting release of police mugshots

Government, North Sioux City, PoliticsLeave a comment
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North Sioux City voters approve a new style of government Tuesday

Gary Dickson

North Sioux City voters decided to shift from an aldermanic to a commission-style government, with 343 votes in favor and 238 against. This change will take effect in April 2025, requiring the election of five commissioners, including a mayor. Concerns remain about the operational details and costs of this transition. Continue reading North Sioux City voters approve a new style of government Tuesday

Government, PoliticsLeave a comment
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Noem’s Cabinet role could be ‘untenable:’ Former Homeland Security chief

Gary Dickson

Jeh Johnson, former Homeland Security Secretary, expressed concerns about South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s potential confirmation as head of the Department of Homeland Security. While her gubernatorial experience may aid her, she faces challenges in managing extensive agency responsibilities and navigating controversial immigration policies under Trump. Tensions between Noem and the White House are anticipated. Continue reading Noem’s Cabinet role could be ‘untenable:’ Former Homeland Security chief

Business, Government, Minnesota, PoliticsLeave a comment

Smithfield’s $2 million child labor penalty dwarfed by parent company’s annual $26 billion in sales

Gary Dickson

Smithfield will pay a $2 million penalty for child labor violations at its Minnesota plant, marking the state’s largest enforcement action. An investigation revealed that 11 minors worked hazardous jobs during late hours. The company denies knowingly hiring underage workers but has agreed to enhance compliance measures in response to the violations. Continue reading Smithfield’s $2 million child labor penalty dwarfed by parent company’s annual $26 billion in sales

Politics, To Whom It May ConcernLeave a comment

To Whom It May Concern – Election Day, 2024

Gary Dickson

The article discusses Watertown, South Dakota, and its connection to the Big Sioux River, emphasizing its historical significance and current political landscape. It critiques Governor Kristi Noem’s response to recent floods and handles local election dynamics, advocating for Democratic candidate Ray Ring while highlighting tensions within the city council regarding government structure changes. Continue reading To Whom It May Concern – Election Day, 2024

Commentary, Humor, Politics, To Whom It May Concern3 Comments

Siouxland childless cat dude interviews cat about Tuesday’s election

Gary Dickson

The article features a humorous exchange between a cat named Willie and his owner about political opinions, especially regarding Donald Trump and his running mate, J.D. Vance. Through their dialogue, Willie articulates strong views on Trump’s character and the nature of his supporters, likening them to enablers of addiction. Continue reading Siouxland childless cat dude interviews cat about Tuesday’s election

Government, Healthcare, PoliticsLeave a comment

More than 50 Iowa nursing homes have agreed to repay taxpayers $13.9 million

Gary Dickson

More than 50 Iowa nursing homes owe nearly $14 million in unpaid fees related to Medicaid. Payment plans have been established for most, with debts expected to be cleared by September 2025. Major debtors include Accura Healthcare and Pacifica Health Services, both under scrutiny for financial violations affecting operations. Continue reading More than 50 Iowa nursing homes have agreed to repay taxpayers $13.9 million

Agriculture, Environment, Government, Health, PoliticsLeave a comment

Health and farmworker advocates urge ban of herbicide linked to Parkinson’s

Gary Dickson

Public health advocates are calling for a federal ban on paraquat dichloride, a toxic herbicide linked to Parkinson’s disease and other severe health issues. The EPA will decide in January 2025 whether to renew the herbicide’s license. Farmworkers emphasize the need for safer agricultural practices to protect public health. Continue reading Health and farmworker advocates urge ban of herbicide linked to Parkinson’s