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News Tips
News Tips For May 18-24, 2013

Speedway Motors WISSOTA 100 Tickets On Sale May 22
HURON, S.D. – Tickets for the Speedway Motors WISSOTA 100 at the state fairgrounds in Huron will go on sale to the general public Wednesday, May 22, at 9 a.m. CDT.

Emergency Medical Services Week: May 19 – 25, 2013
South Dakota is recognizing men and women involved in emergency medical services as a vital part of public safety during Emergency Medical Services Week, May 19 through May 25.

State Historical Society recognizes volunteers for service in 2012
The South Dakota State Historical Society recently honored some of its most important people.

Revised: Work to Begin on South Dakota Highway 1806
Paving work will begin on Highway 1806 in Gregory County on Tuesday, May 21, according to the South Dakota Department of Transportation.


Gant Issues Economic Report for 1st Quarter
Secretary of State Gant has issued the Secretary of State's Economic Report for the 1st Quarter of 2013 based on corporate registration data.

2013 Governor’s Ag Development Summit: "Agriculture-A Call to Action"
PIERRE, S.D. – Registrations are now being accepted for the Governor’s Ag Development Summit on Wednesday, June 26 in Pierre. This year’s theme is “Agriculture – A Call to Action.”

Mountain Pine Beetle Preventative Spraying Demonstration
PIERRE, S.D.-The South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) Division of Resource Conservation and Forestry will hold a demonstration for the public next week in Rapid City on preventative spraying for mountain pine beetles and pine engraver beetles.

Skoglund Named 2012-13 Ag in the Classroom Teacher of the Year
PIERRE, S.D.- Mary Rae Skoglund, a kindergarten teacher at McCook Central Elementary in Salem, South Dakota, has been named the 2012-2013 Teacher of the Year by South Dakota Ag in the Classroom.

State Prison Inmate Dies
Dennis Burton, age 64, passed away in a comfort care setting at the South Dakota State Penitentiary in Sioux Falls May 15.

South Dakota Parks Host Family Programs Memorial Day Weekend
On Memorial Day weekend, visitors to South Dakota state parks can take part in special family activities.

GFP Commission Finalizes Several Hunting and Trapping Seasons
The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Commission has finalized several hunting and trapping seasons.

Commission Proposes Fall Turkey, August Goose and Archery Restriction Changes
The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Commission has proposed rule changes to the Fall Turkey hunting season, the August Management Canada Goose Take, and to an archery hunting restriction.

GFP Commission Proposes Refuge, Archery, Muzzleloader and Youth Deer Seasons
The South Dakota Game Fish and Parks Commission has proposed changes for the upcoming Refuge, Archery, Muzzleloader and Youth Deer seasons.

East River, West River and Black Hills Deer Seasons Proposed at GFP Commission Meeting
The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Commission has proposed East River, West River and Black Hills deer seasons for a public hearing on June 6.

Construction To Begin On Summit Street in Yankton
Work to reconstruct Summit Street in Yankton will begin Monday, May 20, according to the South Dakota Department of Transportation.

Highway 385 Construction To Begin Near Oelrichs
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is advising motorists that crews will begin paving operations on the final phase of the Heartland Expressway Project on Highway 385 in Fall River County on Wednesday, May 22.

Work on Highways 85 and 385 Near Lead to Begin
Construction work is set to begin on Highway 85 from Lead to the Pluma junction on Wednesday, May 22, according to the South Dakota Department of Transportation.

U.S. Highway 12 Closing in Milbank
According to the South Dakota Department of Transportation, Highway 12 will be closed in Milbank at the intersection with Highway 15 on Monday, May 20, for about one-month.

SDSU and DSU Students Recognized by Regents
Student organizations from South Dakota State University and Dakota State University were recognized this week for their outstanding academic, community, and organizational work by the South Dakota Board of Regents.

An Increase in High School Graduates Predicted for South Dakota
While nationally the number of high school graduates is predicted to decline, South Dakota is expected to show a significant increase in graduates over the next decade and beyond, based on projections made by the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE).

Sioux Falls Group Claims $1 Million Powerball Prize
A group of 28 co-workers from a Sioux Falls beer distributing company have claimed their $1 million prize from the May 15, 2013 Powerball drawing.

Sioux Falls Man Claims $118,898 Dakota Cash Jackpot
Robert Hales of Sioux Falls on May 16, 2013 claimed his $118,898 Dakota Cash jackpot from the May 15, 2013 drawing.


A column by Gov. Dennis Daugaard:
Infinite Variety in South Dakota

State of South Dakota Increases Bandwidth to Over 150 Schools
In partnership with the South Dakota Department of Education (DOE), the South Dakota Bureau of Information and Telecommunications (BIT) will work throughout the summer to increase bandwidth to 159 school sites across the state, impacting 122 school districts.

Sequestration Reduces Extended Unemployment Benefits
South Dakota will be reducing extended unemployment compensation (EUC) benefits by 16.8 percent as part of the federal sequestration cuts required by the Budget Control Act of 2011.

Building Move to Close Portion of Highway 81 North of Yankton
The South Dakota Department of Transportation advises motorists that a portion of Highway 81 north of Yankton will be closed for several hours today, Wednesday, May 15, while a large building is moved.

Pavement Repairs To Begin In Hughes County
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will begin a concrete pavement repair and asphalt resurfacing project Monday, May 20, on Highway 14 in Hughes County.

SDSU to Add American Indian Studies Major Online Mass Comm Degree Created for Working Professionals
The South Dakota Board of Regents this week approved plans by South Dakota State University to begin offering an undergraduate degree in American Indian studies starting this fall, while its popular master’s degree in journalism will soon be offered with an online-only option geared to professionals already working in news and media-related fields.

More Options Available for Online Study at State Universities
Students seeking degrees in fields ranging from human sciences to business now have new options at two South Dakota public universities to complete their studies entirely by distance delivery.

SDSU Athletic Training Program Selected for Western Regional Graduate Student Exchange
The master’s-level athletic training program at South Dakota State University will become part of a regional exchange that qualifies students from participating states for the resident tuition rate.


Former State Auditor Dies
Former state Auditor Betty Larson Casey of Gettysburg died Sunday at Hospice of the Hills in Rapid City.

Gov. Daugaard Declares May 17 As Al Neuharth Day In South Dakota
Gov. Dennis Daugaard has signed a proclamation declaring Friday, May 17, as “Al Neuharth Day” in South Dakota.

Federal Court Upholds Current Black Hills Forest Plan Addressing Pine Beetle Infestation
Attorney General Marty Jackley announces that the Wyoming Federal District Court has again upheld the current Black Hills Forest Plan.

John Fitzgerald and Mick Strain Honored by State’s Attorneys
The South Dakota State’s Attorneys Association honors Lawrence County State’s Attorney, John Fitzgerald as South Dakota Prosecutor of the Year and Mellette County State’s Attorney Mick Strain with the Life Time Achievement award.

Ranbaxy Pays South Dakota over a Million to Resolve Adulterated Drugs Claims
Attorney General Marty Jackley announced today that South Dakota has joined with other states and the federal government in a $500 million dollar settlement to resolve civil and criminal allegations that Ranbaxy, a generic pharmaceutical manufacturer based in Gurgaon, India, introduced adulterated drugs into interstate commerce.


President Proclaims Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week
President Barack Obama has proclaimed Wednesday, May 15, 2013, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the period of May 12 through May 18, as Police Week.

Governor Daugaard Names Anderson To Vacant District 16 House Seat
Gov. Dennis Daugaard announced today that he will appoint David L. Anderson to the vacant seat in the State House of Representatives, representing District 16.

Spring Load Limit Release #12
This notice removes Spring Load Limits on SD Highways 19 in the Sioux Falls Area.

Transient Vendors: Get the Facts Before You Buy
Transient vendor season is underway in South Dakota, a time when out-of-state vendors roll into the state to sell their products and services. While many of the vendors are legitimate, the South Dakota Department of Revenue advises people to take common-sense steps to ensure vendors are reputable before doing business with them.

Municipal Tax Changes Effective July 1
Beginning July 1, 2013, two South Dakota communities will update their current city taxes.


Search underway for state prison inmate
Inmate Robert Cadotte left Unit C, the minimum-security unit of the Jameson Annex to the South Dakota State Penitentiary, this morning to go to his work release job but never showed up at the work site.

State prison inmate back in custody
Inmate Robert Cadotte has been returned to the South Dakota State Penitentiary.


Medicaid Opportunities and Challenges Task Force to Meet in Rapid City
Gov. Dennis Daugaard’s Medicaid Opportunities and Challenges Task Force will hold its next meeting in Rapid City, South Dakota, next week.

Governor Daugaard Names Robert Gusinsky As Seventh Circuit Judge
Gov. Dennis Daugaard announced today that he will appoint Robert Gusinsky of Rapid City as a circuit judge in South Dakota’s Seventh Judicial Circuit.

News Tips
News Tips for May 11-17, 2013

Disaster Declaration Approved For April Ice, Snow Storm
Gov. Dennis Daugaard announced Friday, May 10, that seven South Dakota counties, including the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, will receive federal financial help to recover from a powerful ice and snow storm that struck the state in early April.

Burbank Man Arrested on Multiple Counts Including Aggravated Incest and Rape
Attorney General Marty Jackley and Clay County States Attorney Teddi Gertsma announced today that Joseph T. Night, 62, Burbank, was arrested.

DENR Accepting Applications for Water Quality Projects
DENR is accepting applications through Oct. 1 for projects eligible for federal Clean Water Act, Section 319 nonpoint source control grants.

Grants Awarded to Youth Conservation Programs
South Dakota youth will have numerous opportunities for hands-on experience with outdoors and conservation projects thanks in part to grants from the Tony and Dar Dean Outdoor Education Fund.

2013 CRP Open for Enrollment
Beginning on Monday, May 13, agricultural producers and/or landowners will have the opportunity to enroll eligible land into many different continuous Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) practices.

GFP Explains Lake Oahe Fishing Limits
Fishing on Lake Oahe is heating up, particularly in the upper reaches of the big lake. Questions regarding walleye limits have accompanied the increased fishing activity, especially because they differ from walleye regulations in other waters.

Family and Friends Run to Honor Deployed Soldiers
Corey Wieczorek decided to honor her deployed boyfriend and his South Dakota Army National Guard unit by symbolizing their absence, and more importantly their return home, one step at a time.

New SD State Partnership Program Ribbon Being Award
A new South Dakota National Guard State Partnership Program Ribbon is now being awarded to Guardsmen who have deployed to the Republic of Suriname in support of a State Partnership Program (SPP) mission.

Film about Oz author Baum to be shown, discussed at Cultural Heritage Center
"The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" author L. Frank Baum will be remembered on the day of his birth with a special program on Wednesday, May 15, at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

Xcel Energy Postpones Interstate 29 Closure
Due to unforeseen technical issues, Xcel Energy is postponing the planned power line work on Interstate 29 one-half mile north of the Tea Exit 73 until Monday morning (May 13) at 2 a.m. The work was originally planned to be done this week.

Highway 44 Bridge Work West of Rapid City
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will begin work on a Highway 44 bridge west of Rapid City near Magic Canyon on Monday, May 13.

Partnerships Link Universities and K-12 Schools to Improve Math and Science
Six projects partnering public universities with K-12 schools will receive nearly $300,000 in federal grant funding to improve science and mathematics instruction in middle and high schools.


Public Invited To Attend Comment Sessions For GFP Review
All interested citizens are invited to attend a series of comment sessions next week on the management of deer, elk, antelope, and mountain lions in South Dakota.

Growing in Agriculture: South Dakota Families
Mother’s Day is this month. This, my first letter as your Secretary of Agriculture, I’d like to dedicate in memory of my Mom, Karen.

Over-Width Fertilizer Application Vehicles Allowed Extended Travel Time
PIERRE, S.D. – Due to cold weather that has caused a delayed planting season, Gov. Dennis Daugaard has signed an Executive Order to allow over-width fertilizer application vehicles to travel during nighttime hours in South Dakota.

Free Entrance, Free Fishing Mark S.D. State Parks’ Open House Weekend
To kick off summer, the Department of Game, Fish and Parks is encouraging families to spend the weekend outside during the Parks' Open House Weekend and Free Fishing Weekend May 17-19.

Dewey County Fatal Crash
An Eagle Butte, S.D., couple died in a two vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 212 about three miles west of La Plant on Wednesday, May 8.


Governor Seeks Disaster Declaration For Snow And Ice Damage
Gov. Dennis Daugaard has requested a Presidential Disaster Declaration to help South Dakota recover from an April 8-10, 2013, ice and snow storm.

Inmates Indicted for Assault at the State Penitentiary
Attorney General Marty Jackley announced today that inmate Carlos Rapheal Green, 28, Sioux Falls, was indicted on one count of aggravated assault against a department of corrections employee, and inmate Garrett Austin Dumarce, 24, Sioux Falls, was indicted on one count of aiding, abetting or advising aggravated assault against a department of corrections employee.

“Next Generation of Livestock Production” Forums Create Conversation
PIERRE, S.D. - The South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) and South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension Service held forums across the state from January through March to explain South Dakota’s vision for livestock production.

South Dakota Elks Association Donate Monies to Fund Flags at Congressional Medal of Honor Monuments
The South Dakota Elks Association has a long history of supporting veterans, military personnel and their families. Jeff Hallem, past exalted ruler of Pierre Elks Lodge #1953, on behalf of the South Dakota Elks Association, presented Steve Harding, Deputy Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs with a check for $600 for the Medal of Honor Monument flag fund.

SD National Guard Receives Chamber Beautification Award
The South Dakota National Guard received the Rapid City Chamber of Commerce Beautification Award for the month of May during a ceremony Tuesday, May 7, at Camp Rapid for their new Joint Force Headquarters Readiness Center.

Pennington County Fatal Crash
A Sturgis, S.D., man died in a two vehicle crash on Interstate 90 near Exit 55 in Rapid City on Tuesday, May 7.

Highway 85 Bridge Work North of Buffalo
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will begin bridge work on Highway 85 north of Buffalo at mile marker 135 on Monday, May 13.

Spring Load Limit Release #11
This notice removes Spring Load Limits on SD Highways 36, 40, 87, 89 and US 16A in the Custer Area. If you have any questions please contact this office.

Highway 20 Construction in Codington County
According to the South Dakota Department of Transportation, construction crews started work on a culvert repair and asphalt paving project today (May 8) on Highway 20 between Florence and the junction with Highway 25 in Codington County.

Hot Lotto to Offer Cash Only Jackpots
Beginning May 15, 2013, Hot Lotto players in South Dakota who win the game’s jackpot will receive their prizes in single cash payments with the initial holding taxes already paid.


Vermillion Police Department to Receive Money for Camera and Drug Surveillance Equipment
Attorney General Marty Jackley announced today that the Vermillion Police Department has been awarded $1,839.96 for a camera and five pairs of binoculars to be used in drug investigations.

Berget Sentenced to Death for Murder of Senior Correctional Officer Ronald Johnson
Attorney General Marty Jackley announced today that Second Circuit Judge Bradley Zell has denied Rodney Berget’s request for a new sentencing hearing and imposed the sentence of death.

State Prison Inmates Assist DOT With Roadside Cleanup Projects
State prison inmates are assisting the South Dakota Department of Transportation with roadside cleanup projects across the state this spring.

Unemployment Cheaters Convicted
The South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation continues to investigate potential fraudulent conduct of unemployment insurance (UI) claimants.

Work To Begin On Highway 18 Bridge Near Davis
South Dakota Department of Transportation officials are advising motorists that the bridge reconstruction project on Highway 18 west of Davis over the Vermillion River will begin sometime this week (May 6).

I-29 Construction between Summit and Peever to Begin
According to the South Dakota Department of Transportation, crews will begin reconstruction of the southbound lanes of Interstate 29 between the Summit and Peever exits in Roberts County on Monday, May 13.


May Is National Military Appreciation Month
Gov. Dennis Daugaard has signed a proclamation declaring May as National Military Appreciation Month.

Attorney General Jackley Warns of IRS Email Scam
Attorney General Marty Jackley today warned consumers to watch for emails that claim to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), but are actually scams designed to obtain personal identifying information.

South Dakota Governor Leads Recruiting Trip to Minnesota
South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard has worked a wide range of jobs during his life, including farmer, waiter, welder, painter, bus driver, lawyer and banker. As Governor, he can add job recruiter to the list.

Mount Rushmore Presidents to Take Journey across Midwest
The presidents of Mount Rushmore National Memorial will embark on a 14-city tour across the Midwest, beginning May 23.

Highway 50 Reconstruction to Resume
According to the South Dakota Department of Transportation, work has resumed from Vermillion to Gayville on the Highway 50 westbound lane reconstruction project that was started last year.


Brookings County Fatal Crash
Jessyca Rogers died in a one vehicle roll-over crash five miles north of Brookings on Friday, May 3.


News Tips
News Tips For May 4-10, 2013

State Penitentiary receives wastewater treatment award
The award is for outstanding operation of the wastewater system and environmental compliance with its state surface water discharge permit during the past year.

Correctional Employees Week is May 5-11
Gov. Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed May 5-11 as "Correctional Employees Week" in South Dakota.

South Dakota Soldiers Train Suriname Special Forces
Three South Dakota National Guard Soldiers traveled to the Republic of Suriname April 16 –18 to provide refresher and instructor training on the Harris radio system to Surinamese Special Forces soldiers.

Brookings Country Fatal Crash
One person died in a one vehicle roll-over crash five miles north of Brookings on Friday, May 3.

State Historical Society Archaeology Camp being held in June
The South Dakota State Historical Society’s Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) is sponsoring a three-day Archaeology Camp for students going into grades 4 & 5 for the 2013-2014 school year.

National Travel & Tourism Week Spotlights Benefits Of Travel
South Dakota joins states, cities and travel-related businesses nationwide in recognition of National Travel & Tourism Week (NTTW) to be held May 4-12.

Work on I-90 and Cliff Avenue Interchange in Sioux Falls
After 6 p.m. on Monday, May 6, traffic on Cliff Ave. in Sioux Falls will be switched to head-to-head in the northbound lanes to facilitate reconstruction of the southbound lanes, according to the Department of Transportation.


Sen. Mark Johnston To Resign - Gov. Daugaard Invites Public Input On Replacement
Sen. Mark Johnston has announced his intention to resign from the South Dakota State Senate.

De Smet Capital for a Day Schedule Announced
On Friday, May 10, De Smet will become South Dakota’s Capital for a Day.

May is Beef Month
PIERRE, S.D – Time to grill some beef! The summer grilling season is upon us and Gov. Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed May as “Beef Month” in South Dakota.

May is Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month
Gov. Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, Office of Highway Safety reminds drivers about the importance of recognizing and sharing the road with motorcycles.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month
“Pathways to Wellness” is this year’s theme for Mental Health Awareness month during the month of May.

I-90 Eastbound Exit 10 Closure at Spearfish
On Thursday May 9, the Interstate 90 eastbound Exit 10 off-ramp at Spearfish will be closed to traffic, according to the Department of Transportation.

Highway 16 Construction from Neck Yoke Road to the Keystone Wye
On Monday, May 13, construction crews near Rapid City will begin milling the road on an 11-mile resurfacing project on Highway 16 between Neck Yoke Road near Spring Creek and the Keystone Wye.

Work to Begin on Highway 44 east of Platte
According to the South Dakota Department of Transportation, construction crews will begin work on Highway 44 east of Platte on Monday, May 6.


Gant Announces Concealed Pistol Permits for April
Secretary of State Jason Gant stated that “even though we have issued a smaller number of permits in April, South Dakota has seen record numbers of new and renewed permits during the first quarter of 2013.”

WIC Program Announces New Income Guidelines
The South Dakota Department of Health has released new income guidelines for the WIC Program effective May 1, 2013.


State Seeks Preliminary Damage Assessment of April Ice Storm
Gov. Dennis Daugaard has asked the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for a joint preliminary damage assessment (PDA) to begin determining the cost of damages to public and private non-profit property caused by the April ice storm in South Dakota.

Rural Health Facilities Eligible for 2013 Recruitment Assistance Program
Applications are being sought for a state government program that helps rural medical facilities in South Dakota recruit nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists and other health professionals.

Mountain Pine Beetle Spraying Workshops Held In the Black Hills
PIERRE, S.D. - Three mountain pine beetle spraying workshops will be held in the Black Hills during May.

Winners Announced in State Securities Division Essay Contest
Seniors from seven South Dakota high schools have been named cash prize winners in an essay contest coordinated by the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation, Division of Securities.

935th Support Battalion Soldiers Welcomed Home
A welcome home ceremony for 19 Soldiers of Detachment 1, Company B, 935th Support Battalion, South Dakota Army National Guard, was held Tuesday, April 30, at the Army Aviation Support Facility in Rapid City, following a nine-month deployment to Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

State Historical Society presenting Governor’s Awards for History
The South Dakota State Historical Society will be presenting the Governor’s Awards for History this Saturday, May 4, during its annual history conference in Rapid City.

Charlotte’s Web being discussed at next history book club meeting
Writer and writing teacher Candy Hamilton of Rapid City will share insights into E.B. White’s style of writing and how he felt about Charlotte’s Web as he wrote it during a program that begins at 5:15 p.m. Central Time on Tuesday, May 7, at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

Spring Load Limit Release #9
Spring Load Limits are being removed from SD10, SD130 and SD271 effective May 1.

Spring Load Limit Release #10
Spring Load Limits are being removed from SD25, SD251, SD1804, SD1806 in 2 places effective May 1, 2013.

Spring Load Limit Release #8
Spring Load Limits are being removedon sections of Highways 1804 and 1806.

Bridge Work on Highways in Gregory County
On Monday, May 6, rehabilitation of bridges on Highway 44, Highway 47, and Highway 1806 in Gregory County will begin, according to the Department of Transportation.

Construction To Begin on Highway 10 in Eureka
Beginning Monday May 6, work will begin on two projects on Highway 10 in Eureka, according to the South Dakota Department of Transportation.

Bridge Work to Begin in Clay and Union Counties
Industrial Builders, Inc. of Fargo, N.D., will begin applying epoxy chip seal on the Highway 19 bridge one-mile north of Vermillion on Monday, May 6.

Warner Looks Ahead to South Dakota Challenges
With much still to accomplish in challenging times ahead for South Dakota’s public university system, Jack Warner said he plans to continue to lead that system forward.

State, Community Representatives to attend Williston Basin Petroleum Conference
PIERRE, S.D. – The Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) will be joined by representatives from Belle Fourche, Spearfish and Sturgis in promoting South Dakota’s energy industry at the Williston Basin Petroleum Conference in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada this week.


Two Men Arrested in Online Predator Sting in Rapid City
Attorney General Marty Jackley announced today that local, state and federal law enforcement arrested two individuals over the weekend as a result of an online predator sting in Rapid City.

Speech Contest Winners Announced
PIERRE, S.D.-The 52nd annual State Finals of the Resource Conservation Speech Contest was held at the State Capitol in Pierre on Saturday, April 20.

Welcome Home Ceremony Scheduled for 935th Soldiers
A welcome home ceremony will be held for 19 Soldiers of Detachment 1, Company B, 935th Support Battalion, South Dakota Army National Guard, Tuesday, April 30 at 10 a.m. at the Army Aviation Support Facility, east of the Rapid City Regional Airport, after completing a nine- month deployment to Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.


Meade County Fatal Crash
A Rapid City woman died in a one vehicle crash at mile 46 on Interstate 90 in Piedmont, S.D. on Saturday, April 27.


Lawrence County Fatal Crash
A Spearfish, S.D. man died in a one vehicle alcohol related crash five miles west of Spearfish on Friday, April 26.


Gov. Daugaard Names Mike Day As Fourth Circuit Judge
Gov. Dennis Daugaard announced today that he will appoint Mike Day of Belle Fourche as a circuit judge in South Dakota’s Fourth Judicial Circuit.

News Tips
News Tips For April 27 – May 3, 2013

Spring Brings Risk Of Tick-Borne Illness
Using tick repellent and regularly checking for ticks are the keys to preventing tularemia, Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses, says a state health official.

Guard Announces Warrant Officer of the Year
The South Dakota Army National Guard is pleased to announce Chief Warrant Officer 2 Ben Smetana, of Sioux Falls, is this year’s recipient of the CW4 Michael F. O’Connor award, naming him the SDARNG’s Warrant Officer of the Year.

Guard Announces Officer of the Year
The South Dakota National Guard is pleased to announce 2nd Lt. Richard Bauman, of Pierre, is this year’s recipient of the Lieutenant Colonel John J. Steele award, naming him the SDNG’s Lieutenant of the Year.

Hand County Fatal Crash
A Ree Heights man died in a two vehicle crash 15 miles south of Miller on Thursday, April 25.

Spring Load Limit Release #7
Effective at 8:00 AM MDT Monday, April 29, 2013, Spring Load Limit Restrictions will be removed from the road segment at the indicated weight limit shown in the table below.

Rapid City Man Sentenced for Fraudulent Sales Tax Returns
Attorney General Marty Jackley and Department of Revenue Secretary Andy Gerlach announced today that Richard W. Guthmiller was sentenced for making false or fraudulent sales tax returns through his business located in Rapid City.


Charges Filed in Assault at the State Penitentiary
Attorney General Marty Jackley announces that a Complaint has been filed charging inmate Carlos Rapheal Green, 28, Sioux Falls.

State Fair & Sherwin Linton Want South Dakota Talent
HURON, S.D. - The Centennial Stage at the South Dakota State Fair is always a popular attraction with the Sherwin Linton Show performing three times daily.

Quasquicentennial Farm and Ranch Award at SD State Fair
HURON, S.D. – Farm families who have endured 100 or 125 years of life on the farm or ranch have the opportunity to be recognized during the South Dakota State Fair on Thursday, Aug. 29.

Two South Dakota Employers Named Semifinalists for 2013 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense operational committee, announced that two South Dakota employers have been selected as semifinalists for the 2013 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award.

Emergency Management Closes Books on Three Disasters
South Dakota’s Office of Emergency Management this month completed the paperwork and closed the books on three presidentially declared natural disasters from 2008.

Sobriety Checkpoints Planned
The South Dakota Highway Patrol has sobriety checkpoints scheduled in May in the following counties: Brown, Charles Mix, Clay, Codington, Day, Gregory, Hughes, Jackson, Lake, Pennington, Roberts, Spink, Walworth and Yankton.

Construction on 6th Street in Brookings to Begin
On Monday, April 29, reconstruction of 6th Street from 8th Street North to Main Avenue in Brookings will begin, according to the South Dakota Department of Transportation.

Construction To Begin On Highway 12 between Waubay and Summit
On Monday, April 29, crews will begin emplacement of traffic control for the first phase of a concrete paving project on the eastbound lanes of U.S. Highway 12 between Waubay and Summit.

Wilson to Lead School of Mines and Technology as President
Heather Wilson, a former member of Congress, Rhodes Scholar, and small business owner who has worked with large defense and scientific companies, will become the 19th president of South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, the South Dakota Board of Regents announced Thursday.


State Rep. Hansen To Step Aside - Governor Asks For Public Input
State Rep. Jon Hansen has announced plans to resign from his seat in the South Dakota House of Representatives. Hansen, a Republican from Dell Rapids, is resigning to attend law school at the University of South Dakota.

Youth Hunter Education Challenge Returns to South Dakota
Young hunters will get a chance to demonstrate both their shooting abilities and their knowledge of conservation at the 2013 Youth Hunter Education Challenge (YHEC) June 15 in Mitchell.

GFP Invites Educators to Score a Bullseye with Free Archery Training
The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish & Parks will host teacher training next month at Watertown for the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP).

May is Water Safety Month
Gov. Dennis Daugaard has signed an executive proclamation designating May as Water Safety Month in South Dakota.

Keeton named Brook Brown Boating Officer of the Year
Joe Keeton, a Game, Fish and Parks Department conservation officer serving the Pennington County area, has been named the 2013 Brook Brown Boating Officer of the Year

Bridge Construction To Close Portion of Highway 28 - updated
The South Dakota Department of Transportation advises motorists that a three-mile stretch of Highway 28 in Beadle County will be closed to traffic beginning Monday, April 29, and an additional 12 miles will be closed on May 13.


Governor's Column
Earth Day Is Reason To Celebrate Stewardship In Agriculture

South Dakota Child Identification Program Event in Buffalo
Attorney General Marty Jackley and the South Dakota Masons want to remind parents and guardians of the upcoming South Dakota Child Identification Program (SDCHIP) event:

Charles Mix County Sheriff’s Office Awarded New Vehicle with Help from Drug Control Fund
Attorney General Marty Jackley announced today that the Charles Mix County Sheriff’s Office has been awarded $22,449 for a new vehicle to be used in drug investigations.

South Dakota Attorney General Awards Mortgage Fraud Settlement Monies to South Dakota Housing Opportunity Fund
Attorney General Marty Jackley announced today that the South Dakota Housing Development Authority will be the recipient of the $344,000 settlement money that the State of South Dakota obtained from the nationwide agreement with Lender Processing Services, Inc. (LPS).

State Historical Society book about Black Hills now available in paperback
The South Dakota State Historical Society Press is making the dispatches of Captain Jack Crawford available in paperback. Ho! For the Black Hills: Captain Jack Crawford Reports the Black Hills Gold Rush and Great Sioux War opens a window into a vibrant and chaotic time in western South Dakota.

Russell Street Lane Closure
The City of Sioux Falls will be closing the westbound lanes of Russell Street between Kiwanis Avenue and West Avenue in Sioux Falls on Wednesday, April 24.


South Dakota Child Identification Program Event in Rapid City
Attorney General Marty Jackley and the South Dakota Masons want to remind parents and guardians of the upcoming South Dakota Child Identification Program (SDCHIP) event:

Workshop on Repairing Ice-Damaged Trees and Shrubs
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension and the South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) will host a damaged tree and shrub workshop at 6:30 p.m. CT on Monday, April 29, at the Sioux Falls Extension Regional Center.

Sioux Falls Doctor Honored With National Child Immunization Award
The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is honoring Dr. Wendell Hoffman, Sioux Falls, with a 2013 Childhood Immunization Champion award.

927th Soldiers Honored at Welcome Home Ceremony
A welcome home ceremony was held for 14 Soldiers of the 927th Engineer Detachment (Survey and Design Team), South Dakota Army National Guard, Sunday, April 21, at the Holiday Inn City Center in Sioux Falls, after completing a nine-month deployment to Kuwait and Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Rapid City Guard Unit Back on U.S. Soil
Nineteen Soldiers from Detachment 1, Company B, 935th Support Battalion, South Dakota Army National Guard, arrived in the United States Sunday evening, April 21, after serving a nine-month deployment to Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Faith Receives Grant for Community Storm Shelter
The City of Faith will use an $800,000 grant to build a multi-use community safe room that can serve as a public shelter against severe storms.

Giant Vision Winners Share Strong Connections to University Research
Three winners in last week’s Governor’s Giant Vision Business Competition are new start-up companies incubated by South Dakota’s growing focus on university-based research.


Penitentiary staff member injured in assault by inmate
Corporal Zane Mathis was transported to a Sioux Falls hospital for treatment after being assaulted by state prison inmate April 20.


Lincoln County Fatal Crash
A Sioux Falls man died in a two vehicle crash three miles north of Alcester on Friday, April 19.


News Tips
News Tips For April 20-26, 2013

Medicaid Opportunities and Challenges Task Force to Hold First Meeting
The first meeting of the South Dakota Medicaid Opportunities and Challenges Task Force will be held next week in Pierre.

Wildland Fire Academy - A Successful Event
The South Dakota Wildland Fire Division has hosted a Wildland Fire Academy that resulted in 399 National Wildfire Coordinating Group training certificates being issued to participants from 49 local, state and federal agencies.

South Dakota Reports Salmonella Outbreak Associated With Baby Chicks
South Dakota is reporting an outbreak of salmonella associated with baby chicks. Three cases have been reported in the southeastern part of the state and one in the southwest.

Welcome Home Ceremony Scheduled for 927th Soldiers
A welcome home ceremony will be held for 14 Soldiers of the 927th Engineer Detachment (Survey and Design Team), South Dakota Army National Guard, Sunday, April 21 at 11 a.m. (CT) at the Holiday Inn City Center in Sioux Falls, after completing a nine-month deployment to Kuwait and Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Sioux Falls Driver Licensing Services Move to New Site
The South Dakota Driver Licensing Program is combining its Sioux Falls services into a larger, easily accessible location near the intersection of Russell Street and Kiwanis Avenue.

Public’s Help Sought in Sisseton-Area Hit-Run Fatal
Law enforcement authorities are asking the public’s help with an investigation into a fatal hit-and-run north of Sisseton earlier this month.

Lincoln County Fatal Crash
One person died in a two vehicle crash three miles North of Alcester on Friday, April 19.

Rivers to be discussed at 2013 History Conference
Rivers, which have played an important role in South Dakota history, will be the theme of the 2013 South Dakota State Historical Society History Conference, to be held May 3-4 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Rapid City.


Governor Proclaims April 19 As “A Day of Remembrance”
Gov. Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed this Friday, April 19, as a “A Day of Remembrance,” in observance of the 20th anniversary of the state plane crash that took the lives of eight South Dakotans, including Gov. George S. Mickelson.

Governor Proclaims May Weed Awareness Month in South Dakota
PIERRE, S.D. – Gov. Dennis Daugaard has signed a proclamation naming May as Weed Awareness Month in South Dakota.

I-29 Construction Through Brookings To Begin
The South Dakota Department of Transportation advises motorists that reconstruction of the southbound lanes of Interstate 29 through Brookings will begin on Monday, April 22.

Work on I-90 and Cliff Avenue Interchange in Sioux Falls
On Monday morning, April 22, traffic through Sioux Falls on Interstate 90 will be switched head-to-head in the eastbound lanes for reconstruction of the westbound lanes of I-90 and Cliff Avenue interchange project, according to the South Dakota Department of Transportation.

Snow, Wind Creating Difficult Travel Conditions on I-29
South Dakota Department of Transportation officials are advising motorists that travel conditions on Interstate 29 from Sioux Falls to North Dakota could be difficult through the evening hours Thursday and into Friday morning.

Snow, Wind Creating Travel Difficulties across Eastern South Dakota
South Dakota Department of Transportation officials are advising motorists that travel conditions on interstate highways and other state roads across much of eastern South Dakota will be difficult through the evening hours Thursday and into Friday morning.

Groups Collaborate to Expand South Dakota’s Bioscience Industry
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s employment numbers in specialized bioscience occupations have increased by more than 65 percent in the last 10 years.