Sticky post
The Tea Area School District Board has appointed Dr. Tonia Warzecha as Superintendent. With over a decade of leadership and prior experience in the district, she is dedicated to enhancing student success and fostering collaborations between schools and communities, emphasizing a student-first approach. Continue reading DV Superintendent headed to Tea Area School District
Sticky post
South Dakota Senator Chris Karr has introduced a legislative package to enhance oversight of state spending, addressing concerns over former Governor Kristi Noem’s administration bypassing legislative approval. The bills focus on requiring legislative consent for significant expenditures, long-term leases, and budget transfers, aiming to ensure accountability in government finances. Continue reading Noem’s actions motivate state senator’s attempt to limit executive power
Sticky post
On February 10, the Dakota Valley Board of Education approved updates to the Wellness Policy to promote student health through better nutrition and physical activity. The board discussed bullying prevention, staffing changes, and upgrades to school facilities. They also renewed administrator contracts and scheduled the next meeting for March 10. Continue reading Coach resignation, wellness policy changes and administrator contract renewals occupy DV school board
Sticky post
The North Sioux City Planning and Zoning Commission met on February 12 to discuss development projects and business retention. Key topics included a workforce housing shortage and the Union Crossing Tax Increment Finance District #5, which received unanimous approval. Final plats and several building permits were approved, although procedural concerns arose regarding the VIP Gaming Lounge expansion. Continue reading Planning & Zoning Commission has hearing on and approves TIF District #5
Sticky post
The Jefferson City Council met on February 3, covering financial reports, personnel changes, and insurance updates. Key discussions involved a new city attorney candidate, property tax abatement, and plans for street repairs and upcoming elections. The meeting adjourned at 7:44 p.m. Continue reading Jefferson City Council discusses insurance and departure of city attorney
Sticky post
The Union County Treasurer’s Office will be closed on February 14 for the installation of new motor vehicle software, reopening on February 18. Additionally, the Board of Commissioners appointed Robert Ballard as District 3 Commissioner amid personnel changes and discussed various issues, emphasizing transparency and compliance with open meeting laws. Continue reading Ballard named to vacant county commission seat
Sticky post
The author reflects on childhood experiences of misbehavior and parental interventions. Observing a neighbor’s chaotic parenting, they recall their mother’s exaggerated threats about flying away and the fear it instilled in them. They share humorous anecdotes about inventive parenting tactics, emphasizing the importance of expressing discipline without causing fear. Continue reading Some questionable parenting interventions that may or may not work for you.
Sticky post
Iowa students rallied for gun regulation after a school shooting, reflecting rising concerns about school safety. Advocacy for threat assessment teams, aimed at identifying potential threats, has grown since tragedies in Florida. However, inconsistencies and potential biases in these teams’ operations raise concerns about fairness and the treatment of at-risk students. Continue reading Little tracking, wide variability permeate the teams tasked with stopping school shootings
Sticky post
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley announced the arrest of 28-year-old Hudson Wheeler for threatening Governor Larry Rhoden. Wheeler faces a felony charge and a potential ten-year prison sentence, awaiting his next court appearance on February 19, 2025. Continue reading Rapid City man charged for threats made toward governor
Sticky post
Martell Guider, a former nursing home employee, faced multiple sexual impropriety allegations across various Iowa care facilities. Convicted of sexual exploitation of a minor, he avoided probation revocation despite violations, including living in his car. Previous complaints included inappropriate behavior and a rape allegation at a facility in Correctionville, yet no criminal charges were filed. Continue reading Nursing home worker avoids probation revocation on sex charge
Sticky post
South Dakota lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 51, which mandates displaying the Ten Commandments in public schools and incorporating them into the curriculum. Sponsored by Sen. John Carley, the bill reflects concerns about mixing religious displays with education. Critics argue it imposes unfunded mandates on schools, undermining secular education. Continue reading Commandments bill continues the effort to convert schools into churches
Sticky post
The South Dakota Department of Corrections faces a significant nursing shortage, with vacancy rates of 53% for licensed practice nurses and 40% for registered nurses. Secretary Kellie Wasko attributes these issues to unsafe working conditions and challenges competing with the private sector amid a nationwide nursing shortage. Efforts are underway to improve staff conditions. Continue reading Prison medical staff shortage worsens as security shortage eases
Sticky post
An anti-smoking group warns that reducing South Dakota’s Tobacco Prevention and Reduction Trust Fund from $5 million to $2 million could significantly harm public health. The fund supports the QuitLine and prevention programs, which are crucial as tobacco tax revenues decline. Critics emphasize the importance of maintaining funding to combat rising nicotine use among youth. Continue reading Prevention groups fear consequences from Noem’s proposal to reduce funding for anti-tobacco efforts
Sticky post
In the wake of the June 2024 flooding in South Dakota, recovery costs are estimated at nearly $3.5 million. The state seeks $5 million from the legislature to cover expenses, with FEMA contributing $2.9 million toward community recovery efforts, highlighting ongoing disaster response challenges. Continue reading State’s bill for 2024 flood response and recovery is $3.5 million, officials say
Sticky post
In South Dakota, opposition to a carbon dioxide pipeline led to significant political changes. Legislators who supported the contested pipeline legislation were ousted, and new leadership aimed to address landowners’ concerns. Voters rejected a related bill, highlighting growing grassroots mobilization focused on property rights and the potential misuse of eminent domain for pipeline projects. Continue reading Change is ‘eminent’: Property-rights fight transforms this year’s SD Legislature
Sticky post
Nahim Antunez, a 57-year-old from Minnesota, was arrested on December 20 for multiple charges including DUI, open container, and driving under revocation. Officer Koch pulled him over for erratic driving, finding him impaired with a blood alcohol level of 0.089%. Antunez has two prior DUI offenses, escalating potential charges. Continue reading Minnesota man arrested near Beresford for second DUI
Sticky post
A subcommittee in the Iowa House passed a bill restricting public access to mugshots of arrested individuals until after conviction, with certain public safety exceptions. Lobbyists expressed concerns over potential issues in the bill’s language and recommended amendments. The bill aims to protect arrested individuals from judgment before legal proceedings. Continue reading Iowa House panel advances bill limiting release of police mugshots
Sticky post
South Dakota faces potential lawsuits from McCook Lake property owners due to severe flood damage linked to state flood diversion efforts. Residents allege inadequate warning and communication about the risks as authorities diverted floodwaters, resulting in devastation. State officials defended their actions while acknowledging the gravity of the situation and ongoing legal concerns. Continue reading State receives notice of potential lawsuit over McCook Lake flood response
Sticky post
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources has ordered Roorda Dairy to pay over $38,000 due to a manure spill that killed over 107,000 fish in Mud Creek. The dairy must also submit its operating procedures for manure management for approval following an incident caused by a ruptured tile line during manure application. Continue reading Dairy in northwest Iowa to pay $38K for fish kill, manure spill in July
Sticky post
In South Dakota, changes to education laws since 2021 have reduced oversight of alternative instruction, impacting truancy reporting and concerns about potential educational neglect. Critics argue these laws make it difficult to ensure quality education for students outside public schools, leading to fears of children remaining uneducated or falling victim to abuse. Continue reading ‘Big gray area’: SD authorities fear alternative instruction means ‘no-schooling’ for some students
Sticky post
The Urban Cow program by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach offers education for families interested in raising poultry and livestock in Siouxland. Covering essential topics from goals to cheese-making, the program runs from January to April 2024. Registration is required, with fees applicable per session. Continue reading Urban Cow Program has begun in Woodbury County
Sticky post
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s proposed budget cuts threaten the funding of South Dakota Public Broadcasting, which supports a vital communication network for emergency services and public alerts. The potential loss of over $3.6 million could jeopardize infrastructure relied upon by law enforcement and local emergency responders, endangering public safety. Continue reading Attorney general and others know: Noem’s public broadcasting cut threatens public safety
Sticky post
Iowa has the second-highest cancer rates in the U.S., with a sharp rise in breast, prostate, and lung cancer cases, particularly in Northwest Iowa. Concerns about agricultural pollution and the lack of legislative action have prompted local meetings to urge citizens to advocate for clean air and water. Voter influence is essential for change. Continue reading Time to make some noise about cancer in Iowa
Sticky post
Troy Cooke, 51, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for sexually abusing a 10-year-old girl and two years for bestiality, with both sentences served concurrently. The judge cited Cooke’s lack of accountability and violation of trust. He is eligible for parole after seven years and must register as a sex offender. Continue reading Troy Cooke sentenced to prison Monday
Sticky post
A wrongful death lawsuit against Fonda Specialty Care nursing home, stemming from Marvin Jacobs’ suffocation, may be dismissed due to an arbitration agreement signed by his family. The nurse involved, Becky Sue Manning, faced criminal charges for neglect. State inspections revealed failure to clear Jacobs’ airway prior to his death in February 2023. Continue reading Company seeks to block lawsuit over death, citing arbitration agreement
Sticky post
Troy Cooke, convicted of sexual contact with a child under the age of 13, as well as bestiality, faces sentencing on Jan. 6. The former bounty hunter was convicted in a jury trial of a sexual contact charge and pleaded guilty to bestiality. Continue reading Troy Cooke, guilty of sexual contact with a child and bestiality, to be sentenced next week
Sticky post
Matt Vanderpool has been charged with sexual offenses against a second victim. He also has had his bail reduced and is now living with his parents in Iowa. A motions hearing is set for Jan. 6. Continue reading Matt Vanderpool charged for similar offenses involving second victim
Sticky post
Iowa lawmakers will reconvene on January 13, 2025, focusing on property taxes, higher education reform, and immigration policy. With supermajorities in both chambers, Republicans plan to prioritize property tax legislation, while Democrats aim for bipartisan solutions on public education and childcare. Tensions may arise over potential Medicaid work requirements and immigration laws. Continue reading What to expect from the 2025 Iowa legislative session
Sticky post
Jason Ravnsborg, former South Dakota attorney general, faces a proposed six-month suspension of his Iowa law license following his impeachment after a traffic accident that killed pedestrian Joe Boever in 2020. He contests the suspension, arguing its severity and alleging government interference in the investigation. A hearing is scheduled for January 22, 2025. Continue reading Former South Dakota attorney general fights suspension of Iowa law license
Sticky post
Between November 22 and December 28, 2024, the Union County Sheriff’s Office reported various incidents, including traffic warnings, citations, arrests, and assistance to other agencies. Most activities involved enforcing traffic laws and responding to welfare checks, with significant operational time dedicated to the Alcester region. Continue reading Union County Sheriff’s Activity Report – 11/22 – 12/28/2024
Sticky post
A 40-year-old Beresford man, Cephas Joseph Wood, was arrested for Aggravated Domestic Assault after an argument with his girlfriend escalated. The victim reported he choked her during the confrontation. Wood has since been indicted and is held on a $5,000 bond, with his next court appearance scheduled for January 6, 2025. Continue reading Man arrested for allegedly trying to strangle woman in Beresford
Sticky post
Lynne Hunsley, a former South Dakota state employee, accepted a plea deal for creating a fraudulent vehicle title, receiving three years of probation, a $1,000 fine, and $1,200 in restitution. Other former state employees also face charges for various crimes. Attorney General Marty Jackley aims to enhance fraud protections in state government. Continue reading One of former state employees charged in string of criminal cases takes a plea deal
Sticky post
The Vivos xPoint community in South Dakota, previously a military munitions depot, now faces significant issues, including multiple lawsuits, complaints to authorities, and a FBI inquiry. Many residents report unmet contractual obligations regarding amenities and security, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among those seeking a self-sustainable lifestyle. Continue reading Trouble in ‘prepper’ paradise: Bunker residents raise financial, safety concerns at Igloo, SD site
Sticky post
In Siouxland, living conditions have improved since the 90s, particularly regarding unpleasant odors. The community of Dakota Dunes offers tax advantages and a tight-knit environment with essential services. Changing local governance raises concerns about accountability. Amid these issues, the author reflects on the importance of immigrant workers in the local economy and critiques contemporary self-help trends. Continue reading Take comfort in knowing it’s not as bad as it smells
Sticky post
Donald Trump filed a lawsuit against J. Ann Selzer and the Des Moines Register, claiming a poll showing Kamala Harris leading in Iowa constituted election interference. While Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds endorsed Ron DeSantis, asserting Trump couldn’t win, the lawsuit raises questions about the validity of these claims amidst conflicting poll results. Continue reading Trump lawsuit targeting Register’s Iowa Poll is off base
Sticky post
The U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Sackett v. EPA has weakened federal protections for wetlands, threatening conservation efforts and accelerating habitat loss, particularly in South Dakota. Conservationists, like John Cooper, emphasize the need to incentivize wetland preservation over agricultural expansion to combat climate change and support wildlife ecosystems essential for future generations. Continue reading ‘Wild places are worth fighting for’: Concern grows for receding South Dakota wetlands
Sticky post
The Iowa Department of Corrections has declined to amend its rules to prevent county jails from unlawfully seizing inmates’ funds for medical expenses prior to conviction, according to the state ombudsman. This longstanding issue arises from discrepancies between state law and administrative procedures, prompting ongoing recommendations for rule changes. Continue reading DOC faulted for confusion that led to jails’ illegal seizure of inmate funds
Sticky post
Highly pathogenic avian influenza has been detected in a commercial turkey flock in Sac County, Iowa. Four cases were confirmed recently, prompting a disaster proclamation from Governor Reynolds. The risk to humans remains low as officials encourage monitoring and biosecurity measures. Continue reading Bird flu detected in Iowa flock for fourth time in less than a week
Sticky post
A report by Food and Water Watch analyzed nearly 200 manure spills in Iowa between 2013 and 2023, highlighting northwest Iowa’s high spill concentration linked to animal feeding operations. It urged stricter regulations, citing inadequate enforcement and underreporting of incidents. The report calls for more accountability for corporate polluters in Iowa. Continue reading New report shows 10 years of agriculture spills into Iowa waterways
Sticky post
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
Sticky post
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
Sticky post
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
Sticky post
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
Sticky post
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
Sticky post
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
Sticky post
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
Sticky post
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
Sticky post
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
Sticky post
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
The Siouxland Observer 