Tag: news

Education, Government, JusticeLeave a comment

Regents change political activity policy to allow employees to run for Legislature

Gary Dickson

The South Dakota Board of Regents, in a meeting, changed its policy to allow public university employees to run for state legislative office, following a state Supreme Court decision on the matter. This change brings more diverse perspectives to the legislative process, allowing voters to address any potential conflicts of interest. The decision is seen as a victory for citizen representation in the state’s legislature, providing clarity and closure for those affected. Continue reading Regents change political activity policy to allow employees to run for Legislature

Government, HealthcareLeave a comment

Iowa nursing homes owe taxpayers $10.7 million in unpaid fees

Gary Dickson

49 Iowa nursing homes owe taxpayers over $10.7 million in unpaid fees, utilized to boost Medicaid reimbursements. Some for-profit companies, like one in West Des Moines, owe substantial amounts while their executives make political donations. Amid the non-payment issue, questions arise about frontline caregivers’ pay increases. State action and bankruptcy filings underscore the complexity of the situation. Continue reading Iowa nursing homes owe taxpayers $10.7 million in unpaid fees

Commentary, Education, Justice2 Comments

It’s time for WITCC to stop the song and dance routine

Gary Dickson

Western Iowa Tech Community College has settled lawsuits with international students from Brazil and Chile, who were allegedly misled about their programs and forced to work in meatpacking plants. President Terry Murrell took responsibility, but the college denies wrongdoing. Critics question the settlements and demand accountability from the college’s board. The community seeks transparency and proper redress. Continue reading It’s time for WITCC to stop the song and dance routine

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, SiouxlandLeave a comment

Who’s in the hoosegow now?

Gary Dickson

The Siouxland County Jails house individuals arrested and charged, awaiting bond or trial. Inmates include those from Clay, Lincoln, and Union County with varying charges. Clay and Lincoln County jails provide more details on inmates than Union County, simplifying the determination of bond assignment reasons. There is overlap in inmate names between Clay and Union County jails. Continue reading Who’s in the hoosegow now?

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

EconomyLeave a comment

U.S. home prices hit a record high as sales fell. Here’s how housing experts explain the trends

Gary Dickson

U.S. median home prices hit record highs for the second consecutive month, while existing home sales fell 5.4% in June. The high prices and mortgage rates have deterred buyers, leading to slow sales. Housing experts attribute this trend to high demand, low inventory, and aging population. Government proposals aim to address housing affordability, while some states have implemented their own policies. Continue reading U.S. home prices hit a record high as sales fell. Here’s how housing experts explain the trends

Community, SiouxlandLeave a comment

Gays Eating Garlic Bread event to raise money for flood recovery

Gary Dickson

The inaugural Gays Eating Garlic Bread festival in downtown Sioux City aims to support flood recovery efforts. The event, featuring live music, a drag show, and food vendors, will raise funds for the Siouxland Recovery Fund. Organizers hope to make it an annual event with different charitable causes each year. Continue reading Gays Eating Garlic Bread event to raise money for flood recovery