Healthcare2 Comments
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‘This man is literally dying’: Photos of nursing home residents trigger $1,000 fine

Gary Dickson

A nursing home in Algona, Iowa, was fined $1,000 for unauthorized sharing of videos and photos of residents, including a derogatory caption. State inspectors found multiple violations related to resident privacy and care quality. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about privacy violations affecting vulnerable nursing home residents, particularly those with cognitive impairments. Continue reading ‘This man is literally dying’: Photos of nursing home residents trigger $1,000 fine

Crime, Iowa, JusticeLeave a comment
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Iowa AG pushes for constitutional amendment on child testimony

Gary Dickson

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird announced support for a constitutional amendment enabling child victims to testify via closed-circuit video to avoid facing their alleged abusers in court. Following a recent Iowa Supreme Court ruling reversing such protections, Bird emphasized the importance of this amendment for child safety and encouraging testimony in criminal cases. Continue reading Iowa AG pushes for constitutional amendment on child testimony

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

Commentary, North Sioux City2 Comments
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It’s critical that North Sioux City residents show up to vote on Dec. 10

Gary Dickson

North Sioux City voters face a crucial decision on December 10 regarding their city government structure. A petition proposes replacing the current aldermanic system with a five-commissioner model, but critics argue this could lead to uneven representation and fiscal uncertainty. Low voter turnout may benefit proponents of the change, raising concerns about informed decision-making. Continue reading It’s critical that North Sioux City residents show up to vote on Dec. 10

Justice1 Comment
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Police commission: Complaints against cops rising, but fewer than 1% of SD officers disciplined

Gary Dickson

In 2024, complaints about police misconduct in South Dakota rose by 24% over the previous year, with 142 complaints filed. Despite this, less than 1% of certified officers faced discipline. The state Law Enforcement Commission discussed reforming protocols for notifying victims about misconduct hearings, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability. Continue reading Police commission: Complaints against cops rising, but fewer than 1% of SD officers disciplined

Agriculture, EnvironmentLeave a comment
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Highly pathogenic avian influenza detected in Sioux County 

Gary Dickson

The Iowa Department of Agriculture reported a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) at a commercial egg farm in Sioux County, prompting Governor Kim Reynolds to issue a disaster proclamation. This outbreak marks Iowa’s fourth detection of bird flu this year, necessitating enhanced monitoring and biosecurity measures for all poultry producers. Continue reading Highly pathogenic avian influenza detected in Sioux County 

Agriculture, EnvironmentLeave a comment
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Union of Concerned Scientists pushes for wetland protections in Farm Bill

Gary Dickson

A report by the Union of Concerned Scientists highlights the critical status of wetlands in the Upper Midwest, which provide annual flood protections valued at $23 billion. It advocates for inclusion in the upcoming Farm Bill to counteract damage from industrial agriculture and recent legal challenges, ensuring wetlands’ preservation and ongoing benefits. Continue reading Union of Concerned Scientists pushes for wetland protections in Farm Bill

Commentary, To Whom It May Concern4 Comments
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North Sioux Council hypocrites’ high drama is looking ridiculous

Gary Dickson

The article critiques three North Sioux City Councilors, Bob Davis, Lynn Hoffman, and Greg Meyer, for their dysfunction and inability to support a code of ethics. Their objections to the appointment of Andrew Devries highlight their hypocrisy regarding conflicts of interest. The article ends positively, noting the hiring of qualified city administrator Jeff Dooley. Continue reading North Sioux Council hypocrites’ high drama is looking ridiculous

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

JusticeLeave a comment
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Legal battle escalates over $4 million worth of contaminated cheese

Gary Dickson

A lawsuit in Sanborn, Iowa, alleges $4 million in damages due to water contamination linked to a negligent cleaning of the municipal water tower by Maguire Iron. The Minnesota dairy cooperative AMPI claims that toxic materials infiltrated its facility during water tower maintenance. Each party blames the others for the damages. Continue reading Legal battle escalates over $4 million worth of contaminated cheese