Tag: South Dakota

Education, South DakotaLeave a comment

South Dakota ranks 21st in child well-being according to data book

Gary Dickson

South Dakota’s education rankings show a decline in fourth-grade reading proficiency and eighth-grade math skills. Despite some improvements, disparities in educational attainment persist for low-income and minority students. The state also faces challenges in children’s health insurance coverage. Investment in early education and support for families is crucial to address these issues and ensure children thrive. Continue reading South Dakota ranks 21st in child well-being according to data book

economic development, SiouxlandLeave a comment

Makerspace, new businesses bring hope for former ‘Skid Row of the Plains’

Gary Dickson

In Whiteclay, Nebraska, the Makerspace has replaced alcohol with art, providing a place for local artisans to create and sell goods. The initiative has transformed the village, reducing alcohol-related problems and improving the local economy. However, state support is lacking, hindering the Makerspace’s full potential for positive change. Continue reading Makerspace, new businesses bring hope for former ‘Skid Row of the Plains’

Commentary1 Comment

The unsaid words that matter most in Noem’s feud with tribes

Gary Dickson

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem faces challenges in her relationship with Native American tribes. The Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe’s ban on her entry to tribal lands prompted reflection on her rhetoric and actions. Noem’s comments about tribal leadership and drug cartels were criticized and an apology is seen as a potential path to reconciliation and improved relations. Continue reading The unsaid words that matter most in Noem’s feud with tribes

Commentary, GovernmentLeave a comment

What further Trump sins and crimes will SD’s highest elected officials excuse?

Gary Dickson

South Dakota Republicans, including Governor Noem, criticize the conviction of ex-President Trump, showing a departure from their party’s traditional values. They voice concerns about the trial’s fairness and its potential impact on Trump’s political future. Their response highlights a shift away from prioritizing moral principles and the rule of law. Continue reading What further Trump sins and crimes will SD’s highest elected officials excuse?

PoliticsLeave a comment

Prouty swamps Headid in sheriff’s race.

Gary Dickson

Jim Prouty secures 79% of the vote, defeating Rich Headid in the Republican primary for Union County Sheriff. With no Democratic primary, Prouty is poised to complete the late Sheriff Dan Limoges’ term. Prouty’s extensive experience and widespread support across precincts underscore his victory. Additionally, Sydney Davis, Chris Kassin, and William Shorma win GOP legislative primaries. Continue reading Prouty swamps Headid in sheriff’s race.

Crime19 Comments

Matt Vanderpool ran for North Sioux City alderman. Thursday he was arrested for rape and sexual contact with a child.

Gary Dickson

Last Thursday turned out to be the day from hell for Matt Vanderpool. It’s hard to know whether or not Matt Vanderpool had a smile on his face in a minute or two before 6:30 a.m. Or what his thoughts were. Vanderpool was driving his truck and was near the corner of Alcoma and Streeter Drives. It is probably a good guess, though, the look on his face changed to a look of bewilderment or a frown when he noticed two police cruisers were following him with their lights and sirens on. The police officers had in their possession paperwork that charged Vanderpool with five different counts: rape, solicitation of a minor, abuse and neglect of a child, sexual contact with a child under the age of 16, and sexual exploitation. Continue reading Matt Vanderpool ran for North Sioux City alderman. Thursday he was arrested for rape and sexual contact with a child.

CommentaryLeave a comment

I’m taking a vacation from covering local government

Gary Dickson

I’m told it’s springtime. I would guess that is true judging from the green color of the grass and the leaves in the trees around Siouxland. I don’t want to waste any more of my time sitting in city council or county commission chambers observing our elected officials haggle over whether or not this plat has been correctly presented and dated. I’m annoyed by the one-upmanship and other games being played. So, for the next three or four or five months I leave you to your own motivations.

Continue reading I’m taking a vacation from covering local government

South Dakota, Transportation3 Comments

Semi overturns at Jefferson on-ramp Tuesday afternoon

Gary Dickson

A semi-truck carrying snacks overturned after the driver turned too wide onto an on-ramp, sliding into tall grass and tipping over. The driver was uninjured but expressed concern about the lack of warning signs for the steep hill and tall grass. Three wreckers were needed to pull the rig back onto the ramp, closing traffic for several hours. The Highway Patrol is investigating the incident. Continue reading Semi overturns at Jefferson on-ramp Tuesday afternoon

Crime, GovernmentLeave a comment

Union County Sheriff’s Report: April, 2024

Gary Dickson

In April, Union County Jail saw 83 arrests and housed 23 individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences. Among the charges, DUI and theft offenses were prevalent. The Sheriff’s Office also collected $56,714.77 for the general fund in March. The month saw 262 911 calls, 3,027 admin calls, 772 jail calls, and 1,407 calls for service. Continue reading Union County Sheriff’s Report: April, 2024

Commentary, Government2 Comments

What Noem’s shot heard around the world says about her approach to problems

Gary Dickson

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s upcoming memoir reveals that she shot and killed her healthy 14-month-old German wirehaired pointer, Cricket, due to unruly behavior. This has sparked controversy and calls into question her responsible dog ownership. The governor’s attempt to portray herself as a tough problem-solver clashes with this action. The story has garnered significant attention, both in social and traditional media. Continue reading What Noem’s shot heard around the world says about her approach to problems