Be careful what you wish for, Gov. Noem

Kristi Noem’s loyalty to Donald Trump has led to her selection as Secretary of Homeland Security in his administration. With a significant departmental budget and responsibilities, Noem faces challenges, especially regarding potential staff purges favoring Trump loyalists. Her experience with border issues and Trump’s volatile hiring practices leaves her job security in question. Continue reading Be careful what you wish for, Gov. Noem

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

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

More Iowa puppy mills, including two from Siouxland, cited for federal violations

During the third quarter of 2024, six Iowa dog breeders and kennels were cited for a total of 19 federal regulatory violations. Issues included inadequate veterinary care and poor sanitation. Iowa ranked third for violations nationwide, with notable offenders being Furever Paws, Stonehenge Kennels, and Century Farm Puppies. Continue reading More Iowa puppy mills, including two from Siouxland, cited for federal violations

I’m the guy who thinks he talks to mountain lions.

Gary Dickson shares a humorous encounter with a mountain lion named Nigel while hiking in Dakota Dunes. Instead of a threatening interaction, they engage in a lighthearted conversation about life, literature, and golf. Nigel’s playful demeanor contrasts with common fears, showcasing a whimsical perspective on wildlife encounters and their unpredictability. Continue reading I’m the guy who thinks he talks to mountain lions.

Clay County Sheriff Incident Report: 10/12 – 11/9/2024

The Clay County Sheriff’s Office reported various incidents from Oct. 12 – Nov. 9, 2024, including traffic stops, animal control, medical emergencies, and inmate transports. Key events involved car accidents, mental health commitments, and disputes among neighbors. Several citations were issued for speeding and violation of probation, highlighting community enforcement efforts. Continue reading Clay County Sheriff Incident Report: 10/12 – 11/9/2024

Union County Sheriff’s Activity Report – 10/27 – 11/2/2024

From October 27 to November 2, 2024, the Union County Sheriff’s Office dealt with various incidents, including public disturbances, car accidents involving deer, traffic warnings, and multiple inmate transports. The office maintained a consistent presence in Alcester for contract time while addressing community safety and conducting welfare checks throughout the area. Continue reading Union County Sheriff’s Activity Report – 10/27 – 11/2/2024

Legislators get a taste of reporters’ frustration with Noem administration

In an October legislative meeting, South Dakota lawmakers expressed frustration over Department of Revenue Secretary Michael Houdyshell’s refusal to discuss changes following a vehicle title scandal. His silence mirrored ongoing issues with the Noem administration’s transparency. Lawmakers voted to subpoena Houdyshell, reflecting the broader struggles for accountability in state governance. Continue reading Legislators get a taste of reporters’ frustration with Noem administration

State revokes license of imprisoned Sioux City EMT with history of drug arrests

Iowa has revoked the emergency medical technician license of Adam Doty, a convicted felon, following his off-duty methamphetamine use and subsequent incarceration. Doty, previously licensed in April 2024 despite a criminal history involving drug offenses, had been fired from Sioux City Fire and Rescue after violating EMS regulations. Continue reading State revokes license of imprisoned Sioux City EMT with history of drug arrests

State librarian accused of sending obscene material to a minor

Iowa’s state librarian has been arrested on a charge of disseminating obscene material to a person he believed was a 14-year-old boy. Clive police announced Friday that as part of an ongoing investigation, they arrested 53-year-old Michael Lynn Scott of Clive, the state librarian, on a misdemeanor charge of dissemination of obscene material to a minor. Continue reading State librarian accused of sending obscene material to a minor

To Whom It May Concern – Election Day, 2024

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