Tag: South Dakota

EducationLeave a comment

New program gives high school students a jump-start toward a teaching degree

Gary Dickson

The South Dakota Board of Regents launched the Gateway to Teacher Education program to address the growing need for educators in the state. High school juniors and seniors can earn a certificate to use toward education degrees at public universities, with the state covering part of the cost. The initiative aims to cultivate future educators and address workforce needs. Continue reading New program gives high school students a jump-start toward a teaching degree

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

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?

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

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

PoliticsLeave a comment

Referred pipeline law puts company’s permit quest in limbo

Gary Dickson

The permit process and ballot referral highlight the emergence of carbon pipelines and landowner rights as political flashpoints in South Dakota. Summit Carbon Solutions seeks a permit for a network of carbon capture pipelines, and a citizen-led referral challenges a legislative package known as the “Landowner Bill of Rights.” The referendum will give voters a direct say in pipeline policy. Continue reading Referred pipeline law puts company’s permit quest in limbo

Economy, Government, South DakotaLeave a comment

‘We have nothing’: Flood victims say government failures continue after botched flood warning

Gary Dickson

Residents in McCook Lake, South Dakota were caught off guard by a devastating flood on June 23, 2024, despite inadequate warning from authorities. The flood caused extensive damage, and relief efforts have been disorganized, leaving residents uncertain about the future. Many lack flood insurance and are waiting for potential FEMA assistance. Continue reading ‘We have nothing’: Flood victims say government failures continue after botched flood warning

Environment, GovernmentLeave a comment

McCook Lake catastrophe shatters complacency around old flood plans

Gary Dickson

Victims, scientists, and researchers in South Dakota call for recognition of climate and land use changes following a devastating flood. The outdated flood mitigation plan led to destructive consequences in McCook Lake, highlighting the need for updated plans and infrastructure to address the increasing frequency and severity of floods. Urban development and changing river flows are contributing factors, requiring updated zoning laws and design standards to mitigate future flood hazards. Continue reading McCook Lake catastrophe shatters complacency around old flood plans

Community, SiouxlandLeave a comment

MRHD Provides First Round of Emergency Grants to Support Local Flood Victims

Gary Dickson

Missouri River Historical Development (MRHD) has awarded $71,650 in emergency grants to six local non-profit organizations to assist flood victims in the Siouxland area. The grants aim to address immediate necessities such as food, temporary housing, essential supplies, clean up, and emergency repairs. In addition, MRHD has modified its Impact Match Grant program to support flood-related projects. Continue reading MRHD Provides First Round of Emergency Grants to Support Local Flood Victims

Government, Justice, South DakotaLeave a comment

Counties hit with $74,000 in plaintiffs’ attorney fees for trying to restrict petition circulators

Gary Dickson

The Minnehaha County Courthouse and Lawrence County violated the First Amendment rights of petition circulators. They had to pay $74,000 in attorney fees and costs. The circulators were gathering signatures for measures related to abortion rights and state sales taxes. Lawyer Jim Leach represented the group in their successful lawsuit. Continue reading Counties hit with $74,000 in plaintiffs’ attorney fees for trying to restrict petition circulators