Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem and Mayor TenHaken Announce Planned Completion of Veterans Parkway
Today, Governor Kristi Noem and Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken announced plans to complete construction on the Veterans Parkway on the south side of Sioux Falls. The Transportation Commission approved plans for the final completion of the project earlier today.

Public Safety

Codington County Fatal Crash
WATERTOWN, S.D. – A 67-year-old male has died of injuries sustained in a two-vehicle crash that occurred Monday, Aug. 31, north of Watertown.

Transportation

Missouri River Bridge Replacement Project Awarded
Today, Secretary of Transportation Darin Bergquist announced that the Transportation Commission approved the award of the Pierre-Fort Pierre Missouri River Bridge replacement project to Jensen Construction Company for $49.99 million.

Work Begins on I-90 near Exit 23
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says bridge berm repair work will begin at the east and westbound bridges on Interstate 90 at mile marker 22.98 west of Whitewood on Monday Sept. 28.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Announces Special Legislative Session
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that she will be calling a special session of the state legislature.

Agriculture

South Dakota Timed Event Championship Results
The tenth annual South Dakota Timed Event Championship (SDTEC) sponsored in part by Panhandle Slim, LG Seeds, and Double D Western, was held Sept. 5 and 6 in Huron at the South Dakota State Fair.

Education

Board adopts rules changes and begins public hearings on proposed content standards
The South Dakota Board of Education Standards adopted several changes to educator certification rules to allow additional flexibilities earlier today. The board also held the first of four public hearings on academic content standards in several content areas.

Public Safety

Webster DL Exam Station Expands Days to Accommodate Public
WEBSTER, S.D. – An additional day of service has been added at the Webster exam station to accommodate the needs of northeast South Dakota area residents who need to renew a driver’s license or identification card.

Custer County Fatal Crash
HERMOSA, S.D. – One person died and another was injured in a three-vehicle crash Friday morning in Hermosa.

Transportation

Retaining Wall Relocation near I-190 in Rapid City
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says a project to relocate a section of retaining wall at the intersection of North Street and 11th Street, near I-190 in Rapid City, will begin on Sept. 28, 2020.

Public Safety

Clay County Fatal Crash
VERMILLION, S.D. – One man died early Sunday morning in a one-vehicle crash north of Vermillion.

Public Safety

Name Released In Walworth County Fatal Crash
MOBRIDGE, S.D. – A Mobridge juvenile has been identified as the person who died Tuesday night in a one-vehicle crash Tuesday night in Mobridge.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Outlines Framework for $100 Million in CARES Act Funding for Community-Based Healthcare Providers
Today, Governor Kristi Noem laid out a framework for up to $100 million in Coronavirus Relief Funds (CRF) to assist South Dakota’s community-based healthcare providers in their fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Good News for Ethanol
For years, I’ve been working to advance ethanol to benefit South Dakota farmers.

Education

State Historical Society creates listing of statues in South Dakota
The South Dakota State Historical Society recently prepared a list of statues in the state.

Human Services

Vocational Rehabilitation Program Expanding Services
The South Dakota Department of Human Services (DHS) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program is expanding services to assist individuals with disabilities return to work as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Public Safety

Name Released In Edmunds County Fatal Crash
IPSWICH, S.D. – A Roscoe, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died Monday afternoon in a tractor/sprayer crash near Ipswich.

Governor Kristi Noem

Custer State Park to Host Annual Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) will host the 55th annual Buffalo Roundup and 27th annual Arts Festival in Custer State Park later this month.

Education

State Historical Society seeks public input on preservation needs
The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) of the South Dakota State Historical Society at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre is preparing for its federal fiscal year 2021 grant application and invites public comment through Oct. 31 on the state’s preservation needs and projects.

Labor and Regulation

Governor Noem Proclaims Sept. 20-26 Adult Education and Family Literacy Week
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed Sept. 20-26 Adult Education and Family Literacy Week in South Dakota.

Unemployment Weekly Claims Decrease
During the week of Sept. 6-12, a total of 346 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Public Safety

Names Released In Lawrence County Fatal Crash
SPEARFISH, S.D. – A Rapid City, S.D., woman has been identified as the person who died in a one-vehicle crash Sunday in Spearfish.

Transportation

Bridge Spall Repairs in Sioux Falls
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will be doing concrete spall repairs on two overpasses in Sioux Falls on Sept. 22 and 23.

Agriculture

Scholarship Prizes Available for Resource Conservation Speech Contest Winners
Contestants in the 60th Annual Resource Conservation Speech Contest are eligible to win a share of $2,300 in college scholarships.

Public Safety

Name Released In Bennett County Fatal Crash
MARTIN, S.D. – A Martin man has been identified as the person who died Saturday afternoon in a one-vehicle crash south of Martin.

Walworth County Fatal Crash
MOBRIDGE, S.D. – One person died and two others were injured in a one-vehicle crash Tuesday night in Mobridge.

Tourism

Explore South Dakota Virtually with New Online Learning Resources
As families across the nation continue to make decisions about virtual learning and travel experiences, the South Dakota Department of Tourism has developed flexible and unique virtual learning opportunities to experience South Dakota from home.

GOVERNOR NOEM OPENS CALL TO STUDENT ARTISTS
In celebration of National Arts in Education Week, Sept. 13-19, 2020, Governor Kristi Noem and the South Dakota Arts Council are excited to announce the launch of the Governor’s Student Art Competition.

Transportation

Solberg Avenue Bridge Approach Slab Work
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will be working on the Solberg Avenue overpass structure over I-229 in Sioux Falls starting Thursday, Sept. 17.

State Railroad Board Accepts Proposal to Purchase the Mitchell to Rapid City Railroad Line
The South Dakota State Railroad Board (Board) accepted a proposal today for possible acquisition of the state-owned Mitchell to Rapid City Railroad (MRC) Line. The proposal was presented by Watco Companies who have ownership in 43 other shortline railroads in North America and Australia.

South Dakota Awarded $22 Million Grant
Secretary Darin Bergquist announced that the South Dakota Department of Transportation has been awarded a $22 million Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant to reconstruct and widen shoulders on the S.D. Highway 46 segment from U.S. Highway 81 to west of Interstate 29.

Asphalt Paving on Highway 85 in Butte County
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will begin asphalt resurfacing operations the week of Sept. 21, on 22 miles of Highway 85, from Belle Fourche, north to the junction of Kinghorn Road.

Human Services

2020 Governor’s Awards Presented
Governor Kristi Noem presented the 2020 Governor’s Awards today to South Dakota businesses and individuals who have made significant contributions to improving independent living and increasing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Public Safety

Edmunds County Fatal Crash
IPSWICH, S.D. – One person died Monday afternoon in a tractor/sprayer crash near Ipswich.

Names Released In Brown County Fatal Crash
COLUMBIA, S.D. – A Mina, S.D. woman has been identified as the person who died in a two-vehicle crash last Friday morning west of Columbia.

Transportation

Election Signs Not Allowed in State Right of Way
The South Dakota Department of Transportation reminds the public that political campaign and ballot-issue signs cannot be placed on state highway rights of way.

Tunnel Inspections to Take Place in October
The Department of Transportation will be doing bi-annual tunnel inspections the week of Oct. 5, 2020. This will result in traffic delays and or closure of Highway 87 Needles Highway and Highway 16A Iron Mountain Road.

Agriculture

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture Reminds Public of Emerald Ash Borer Quarantine
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) would like to remind the public about the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) quarantine.

Public Safety

Lawrence County Fatal Crash
SPEARFISH, S.D. – One person died and another was injured in a one-vehicle crash Sunday in Spearfish.

Hyde County Fatal Crash
HIGHMORE, S.D. – One man died Saturday night in a pedestrian-vehicle crash west of Highmore.

Transportation

Hall of Honor Banquet Date Set for Myron Rau of Sioux Falls
Myron Rau of Sioux Falls is being inducted into the South Dakota Transportation Hall of Honor.

Hall of Honor Banquet Date Set for Barb Cline of Spearfish
Barb Cline of Spearfish is being inducted into the South Dakota Transportation Hall of Honor.

Eastbound I-90 Lane Closure at Exit 402
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will be placing a lane closure in the eastbound driving lane of Interstate 90 at Exit 402 on Wednesday, Sept. 16.

Highway 115 (Minnesota Avenue) Opening to Traffic
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says Highway 115/Minnesota Avenue will be opening to traffic today, Monday, Sept. 14.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Governor Noem Announces Watertown as ‘Large Community of the Year’
WATERTOWN, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem was in Watertown, South Dakota, today to present the community with the “Large Community of the Year” award.

Public Safety

Bennett County Fatal Crash
MARTIN, S.D. – One man died Saturday afternoon in a one-vehicle crash south of Martin.

Corrections

Inmate Clarence Ferris placed on escape status
Inmate Clarence Ferris left the Rapid City Community Work Center without authorization Sept. 12.

Governor Kristi Noem

Celebrating and Commemorating
This past week started with a holiday celebrating America’s workers and ended with the commemoration of 9/11, one of the most tragic days in American history.

Public Safety

Brown County Fatal Crash
COLUMBIA, S.D. – One person died and another was injured in a two-vehicle crash Friday morning west of Columbia.

Hughes County Fatal Crash
PIERRE, S.D. – A Pierre man has been identified as the person who died Saturday night in a one-vehicle crash in Pierre.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Weekly Claims Decrease
During the week of Aug. 30 through Sept. 5, a total of 536 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation. This is a decrease of 94 claims from the prior week’s total of 630.

Public Safety

Name Released In Jones County Fatal Crash
OKATON, S.D. – A Joliet, Ill., man has died as a result of injuries sustained in an Aug. 23, 2020 motorcycle crash west of Okaton.

Name Released In Harding County Fatal Crash
BUFFALO, S.D. – A man from Pinehurst, Idaho has been identified as the person who died early Sunday morning in a motorcycle crash north of Buffalo.

Veterans Affairs

POW/MIA Recognition
At the request of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, Gov. Kristi Noem has proclaimed Friday, Sept. 18, 2020, as “POW/MIA Recognition Day,” calling on all South Dakotans to honor those men and women who fought bravely for our freedoms.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Outlines Framework for $400 Million in CARES Act Funding for South Dakota Small Businesses
Today, Governor Kristi Noem laid out a framework for up to $400 million in Coronavirus Relief Funds (CRF) to assist South Dakota’s small businesses negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tourism

RELIEF FUNDING AWARDED ACROSS ARTS FIELD
The South Dakota Arts Council has awarded $422,800 in grants supported by the National Endowment for the Arts through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to 60 arts and cultural organzations throughout South Dakota.

Transportation

Project on Highway 12 from McLaughlin to the Grand River
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says work on Highway 12 from about one mile west of the Grand River to 1.5 miles west of McLaughlin will begin Monday, Sept. 14.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem: Modeling Isn’t Reality
Today, Governor Kristi Noem issued the following statement on the grossly misleading San Diego State CHEPS study regarding COVID-19 cases following the Sturgis rally:

Public Safety

Vermilion DL Exam Station Expands Days to Accommodate Public
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Driver Licensing program is adding days of service, by appointment only, to accommodate the needs of Vermillion area residents who want to renew a driver’s license or identification card.

Social Services

DSS awarded $1.2 million to help prevent adult suicide
More than 68,000 South Dakotans are expected to be helped over the next three years in the fight against adult suicide, thanks to a $1.2 million federal grant recently awarded to South Dakota’s Department of Social Services (DSS). The money is intended to help prevent suicide in the 25 and older age group.

Transportation

Reminder to Remove Hay Bales from the Right of Way
The South Dakota Department of Transportation reminds land owners hay remaining in highway ditches after Oct. 1 is deemed illegal.

Public Safety

Harding County Fatal Crash
BUFFALO, S.D. – One man died early Sunday morning in a motorcycle crash north of Buffalo.

Agriculture

The Outlaw Truck and Tractor Pull Cancelled Due to Inclement Weather
The South Dakota State Fair announces the “Thunder at the Fair” Outlaw Truck and Tractor Pull sponsored by Kibble Equipment scheduled for Monday, September 7, has been cancelled due to inclement weather.

Corrections

Three inmates placed on escape status
Inmates Liberty Briley, Joseph Davis and Kevan Whiteman left the Sioux Falls Community Work Center without authorization Sept. 4.

Human Services

Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week
Gov. Kristi Noem has proclaimed Sept. 13-19 Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Recognition Week in South Dakota.

Public Safety

Name Released In Union County Fatal Crash
BERESFORD, S.D. – A Sioux Falls, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died early Tuesday morning in a one-vehicle crash south of Beresford.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Announces $75 Million in CARES Act Funding for K-12 Schools
Governor Kristi Noem today announced that public and private schools in South Dakota will receive an additional $75 million, or $500 per student, in new funding from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF).

The Consequences of Lockdowns
You’ve heard me say many times that South Dakota never closed. We allowed South Dakotans to make the best decisions for themselves, their families, their businesses, and their communities.

Human Services

2020 Governor’s Awards Ceremony Scheduled
Gov. Kristi Noem will recognize individuals and employers for their contributions to improving employment opportunities and independent living for people with disabilities at the 2020 Governor’s Awards ceremony Sept 15.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Initial Weekly Claims Decrease
During the week of Aug. 23-29, a total of 594 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Social Services

September is ‘Suicide Prevention Month’ and ‘Recovery Month’ in South Dakota
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed September both Suicide Prevention Month and Recovery Month in South Dakota.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Congratulates Build Dakota Scholarship Winners
Governor Kristi Noem today congratulated 313 students who have been awarded the Build Dakota Scholarship for the 2020-21 school year.

Public Safety

September’s Sobriety Checkpoint List Released
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Department of Public Safety has released the September sobriety checkpoint list which calls for 19 checkpoints to be done in 15 counties statewide.

Names Released In Turner County Fatal Crash
HURLEY, S.D. – A Freeman, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died Sunday night in a two-vehicle crash north of Hurley.

Social Services

DSS looks to ‘change minds’ on youth suicide
“Change my mind” is the main message behind the youth suicide prevention campaign recently kicked off through BeThe1SD, a joint effort between the South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS) and Department of Health (DOH).

Tourism

SOUTH DAKOTA AND WYOMING TOURISM DEPARTMENTS COME TOGETHER TO PROMOTE THE ULTIMATE AMERICAN ROAD TRIP
“Black to Yellow” Campaign Will Promote Outdoor Adventure and Family-Friendly Escapes to the Black Hills National Forest and Yellowstone National Park

Transportation

Culvert and Handrail Repair on Highway 18 in Pine Ridge
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says a box culvert repair project on Highway 18 in Pine Ridge, located one-quarter mile north of the junction of Highway 18/407 and Big Bats Gas Station will begin Thursday, Sept. 3.

I-229 Closed for 26th Street Construction
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says Interstate 229 will be closed between the Cliff Avenue and 10th Street exits next week for continued construction on the 26th Street bridge.

Median Shoulder Work on Interstate 90 Near Exit 48
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says median shoulder work begins today, Sept. 2, in the westbound lanes of Interstate 90 at Exit 48.

Board of Regents

Regents Launch Higher Education Task Force Study
The first meeting of a task force to study operations of the public university system in South Dakota is scheduled Oct. 7-8 in Rapid City.

Veterans Affairs

Media Advisory: South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Expands Clean Energy Footprint
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will expand their clean energy footprint by activating a 372.2Kw solar panel at the Michael J. Fitzmaurice State Veterans Home in Hot Springs on Wednesday, September 9, at 11:00 am (MT).

SD Bridge to be Dedicated in Honor of SFC Richard Schild
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony to honor Combat Veteran SFC Richard Schild.

Public Safety

Union County Fatal Crash
BERESFORD, S.D. – One man died early Tuesday morning in a one-vehicle crash south of Beresford.

Names Released In Minnehaha County Fatal Crash
HARTFORD, S.D. – A Colman, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died Saturday night in a motorcycle-pickup crash west of Hartford.

Names Released In Union County Fatal Crash
JEFFERSON, S.D. – A Brunsville, Iowa woman has been identified as the person who died Saturday in a two-vehicle crash south of Jefferson.

Transportation

Highway 22 Set to Reopen East of Clear Lake
The South Dakota Department of Transportation, says grading work on Highways 22 and 101 has been completed and will be reopened to full traffic on Wednesday, Sept. 2.

Revenue

Tax collections climb to $1.34 million at Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
The Department of Revenue’s tax collections at the 2020 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally are currently at $1,343,348.

Public Safety

Turner County Fatal Crash
HURLEY, S.D. – One person died Sunday night in a two-vehicle crash north of Hurley

Name Released In Lawrence County Fatal Crash
STURGIS, S.D. – A Sturgis man has been identified as the person who died last Wednesday night in a motorcycle crash west of Sturgis

Names Released In Moody County Fatal Crash
FLANDREAU, S.D. – A Volga, S.D. woman has been identified as the person who died Friday night in a two-vehicle crash west of Flandreau.

Transportation

SDDOT Receives $41.5 Million in Additional Federal Funding
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says they have received an additional $41.5 million in federal highway funding after the state met all its fiscal year deadlines for federally-funded projects.

Highway 1806 Road Closure by GF&P Offices
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says work will begin Tuesday, Sept. 8, to replace mainline cross pipes on Highway 1806 west of Pierre/Fort Pierre.

Public Safety

Minnehaha County Fatal Crash
HARTFORD, S.D. – One person died Saturday night in a motorcycle-pickup crash east of Hartford.

Public Safety

Union County Fatal Crash
JEFFERSON, S.D. – One person died and two others were injured Saturday in a two-vehicle crash south of Jefferson.

Moody County Fatal Crash
FLANDREAU, S.D. – One person died and four others were injured Friday night in a two-vehicle crash west of Flandreau.

Governor Kristi Noem

The Duty of Leaders
Today, the rule of law is under attack in America. In cities across the country, violent mobs are running rampant.

Education

Lincoln, Mount Rushmore at center of latest State Historical Society biography
The latest book from the South Dakota Historical Society Press explores how the 16th president shaped the country beyond the Mississippi River.

State Historical Society puts more historic newspapers online
Three new South Dakota towns are represented in the digitized historical newspaper collections on Chronicling America. Newspapers from Eureka, Wood and Tabor have been digitized and made available by the South Dakota State Historical Society.

Health

Potential COVID-19 Exposure in Sioux Falls, SD
State Health officials announced Friday, August 28th, that two individuals who visited Ignite Yoga Studio at 6144 S Lyncrest Ave in Sioux Falls, SD have tested positive for COVID-19.

Public Safety

Lawrence County Fatal Crash
STURGIS, S.D. – One man died Wednesday night in a motorcycle crash west of Sturgis

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Announces Merging of Agriculture and Environment and Natural Resources Departments
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced the South Dakota Departments of Agriculture and Environment & Natural Resources will merge to form the streamlined South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Health

August 27th COVID-19 Update
The South Dakota Department of Health is reporting 343 new cases of COVID-19 infection in the state today. Today’s update also includes cases that were not reported on August 25th and 26th due to a reporting aberration.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Continued Claims Decrease by 16,000 Since Pandemic Peak
The latest number of continued state unemployment claims is 9,051 for the week ending Aug. 15, a decrease of 16,135 from the pandemic high of 25,186 week ending May 9.

Transportation

PE Bridge Improvement Grant Recipients Announced
The South Dakota Transportation Commission awarded 40 Preliminary Engineering Bridge Improvement Grants (BIG) totaling $1.47 million at their meeting today in Pierre.

Asphalt Resurfacing of Ramps and Shoulders
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says asphalt concrete resurfacing of the inside shoulders of the north and southbound lanes of Interstate 29 from the Iowa line north to mile marker 5.0 will begin on Monday, Aug. 31.

Pipe and Asphalt Repairs on Highway 14A/85
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says pipe and asphalt repair work will begin on Highway 14A/85 on Friday, Sept. 4, 2020.

Transportation

2020 S.D. Transportation Hall of Honor Inductees Announced
Three people have been chosen for induction into the South Dakota Transportation Hall of Honor for 2020.

Veterans Affairs

Veterans Day at the South Dakota State Fair
At the request of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, Gov. Kristi Noem has proclaimed Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020, as Veterans Day at the South Dakota State Fair, calling on all South Dakotans to honor those men and women who fought bravely for our freedoms.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Signs Executive Order for Educational Flexibility
Last Friday, Governor Kristi Noem signed an executive order to provide flexibility for South Dakota high school graduates pursuing South Dakota Opportunity Scholarships.

Agriculture

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture Reminds Producers to Check Cover Crop Seed Sources
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) would like to remind producers to check the source of cover crop seeds and ensure a lab analysis on the seeds has been conducted before planting.

Public Safety

Names Released In Roberts County Fatal Crash
SISSETON, S.D. – A Rice Lake, WI man has been identified as the person who died late Friday night in a pedestrian-vehicle crash north of Sisseton.

Veterans Affairs

Kathy Schlecht Receives 2020 SDDVA Partner of the Year Award
Kathy Schlecht, of Aberdeen has been named the 2020 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Partner of the Year. Schlecht was recognized by her peers at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, Aug. 24, in Pierre.

Kathy Richardson Named CTVSO of the Year
Kathy Richardson of Sioux Falls has been named the 2020 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs “County/Tribal Veterans Service Officer of the Year.” Richardson was recognized by her peers at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, Aug. 24, in Pierre.

Geri Opsal Receives 2020 SDDVA Outreach Award
Geri Opsal of Agency Village has been named the 2020 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Outreach Partner of the Year. Opsal was recognized by her peers at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, Aug. 24, in Pierre.

Hannah Mulder Receives 2020 SDDVA Employee of the Year Award
Hannah Mulder of Sioux Falls has been named the 2020 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Employee of the Year. Mulder was recognized by her peers at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, Aug. 24, in Pierre.

Leaders Recognized for their Service to South Dakota's Veterans
County and tribal veterans’ service officers (CTVSO) and staff from the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs (SDDVA) were recognized for their dedication to serving veterans and veterans’ families at an awards program Monday, Aug. 24, in Pierre.

Education

Her Vote. Her Voice. Statewide Toast Part of National Commemorations of Women’s Right to Vote
To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment and women’s constitutional right to vote, buildings and landmarks across the U. S. will light up in purple and gold on Wednesday, Aug. 26, as part of the nationwide Forward Into Light Campaign, named in honor of the historic suffrage slogan, “Forward through the Darkness, Forward into Light.”

Revenue

Greg Strommen resigns as Commissioner, Bob Goetz to take his place
Governor Kristi Noem accepted Commissioner Greg Strommen’s request to resign and sincerely thanked Greg for serving on the South Dakota Commission on Gaming. On August 18, 2020, Governor Noem appointed Bob Goetz to finish out the remainder of the term.

Public Safety

Roberts County Fatal Crash
SISSETON, S.D. – One man died late Friday night in a pedestrian-vehicle crash north of Sisseton.

Names Released In Brown County Fatal Crash
GROTON, S.D. – Two Fargo, N.D., men have been identified as those who died Tuesday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash west of Groton.

Governor Kristi Noem

By the Numbers: South Dakota’s COVID-19 Response
We’re coming up on six months since South Dakota started our fight against COVID-19.

Corrections

Inmate Cornell Miles Back in Custody
Miles was arrested Aug. 21 in Minnehaha County.

Health

Potential COVID-19 Exposure in Sturgis, SD
State Health officials announced Thursday, August 21, that an individual who visited three businesses in Sturgis, SD has tested positive for COVID-19.

Human Services

DHS Releases Continuum of Care Report
The South Dakota Department of Human Services (DHS) today released a report that highlights the continuum of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) within South Dakota.

Transportation

I-229 To Close for 26th Street Construction
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says Interstate 229 will be closed between the Cliff Avenue and 10th Street exits next week for continued construction on the 26th Street bridge.

Veterans Affairs

SDDVA Secretary Whitlock’s August Column – Housing Opportunities for Veterans
Home ownership is a big step, both emotionally and financially. Owning your home can be a rewarding experience.

Health

Potential COVID-19 Exposure in Sturgis, SD
State Health officials announced Thursday, August 20th, that an employee of Asylum Tattoo Sturgis at 1304 Main St. in Sturgis, SD has tested positive for COVID-19.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Initial Weekly Claims Decrease
During the week of Aug. 9-15, a total of 741 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Transportation

Pavement Marking and Rumble Strips on Various BIA Routes
A construction project to install pavement markings and rumble strips may begin as early as today, Thursday, Aug. 20, on the Pine Ridge Reservation followed by the Rosebud Reservation.

Highway 85 Shoulder Repair in Butte County
On Monday, August 24, the South Dakota Department of Transportation will begin repairing shoulders on Highway 85, in the town of Belle Fourche.

Corrections

Inmate Philomene Boneshirt Back in Custody
Boneshirt was arrested Aug. 18 in Sioux Falls.

Public Safety

Brown County Fatal Crash
GROTON, S.D. – Two men died Tuesday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash west of Groton.

Social Services

DSS provides support to child care programs
The Department of Social Services (DSS) has awarded more than $3 million to child care providers so far in response to the COVID-19 pandemic as part of ongoing efforts to support South Dakota families.

Transportation

Highway 183 Restrictions Being Removed
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is REMOVING the width and overweight restrictions on Highway 183 from west of Winner north to the White River.

State Railroad Board Acts on Sale of One State-owned Railroad Line
The South Dakota State Railroad Board (Board) acted today (Aug. 19, 2020) on a proposal to sell one of the states short line railroads.

Education

Toolkit available to help families prepare for school year
The South Dakota Department of Education has developed a toolkit to help families prepare for the 2020-21 school year.

Health

Potential COVID-19 Exposure in Sturgis, SD
PIERRE, S.D. – State Health officials announced Tuesday, August 18, that a patron of the One-Eyed Jack’s Saloon at 1304 Main St. in Sturgis, SD has tested positive for COVID-19.

Public Safety

Names Released In Deuel County Fatal Crash
REVILLO S.D. – A Revillo, S.D. man has been identified as the person who died Friday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash south of Revillo.

Transportation

2020 Sturgis Rally Final Vehicle Counts
Final vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 80th annual Sturgis motorcycle rally Aug. 7-16, 2020, have been tallied.

Asphalt Resurfacing on Highway 212 at Belle Fourche
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says shoulder work will resume on Highway 212, between Belle Fourche and Nisland on Monday, Aug.24, 2020.

I-229 Exit Closures
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says northbound I-229 between the Cliff Avenue and 10th Street exits will be closed tonight and tomorrow, Tuesday, Aug. 18, and Wednesday, Aug. 19, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Traffic Delays on Highway 37 South of Springfield
The Nebraska DOT will be placing an epoxy deck seal on the Standing Bear Memorial Bridge on Highway 37 south of Springfield starting Aug. 24, and finishing by mid-October.

Corrections

State Prison Inmate Larry Faller Dies
State prison inmate Larry Faller has died following an illness unrelated to COVID-19.

Public Safety

Deuel County Fatal Crash
REVILLO S.D. – One person died and two other people were injured Friday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash south of Revillo.

Lincoln County Fatal Crash
CANTON, S.D. – One man died early Monday morning in a one-vehicle crash southwest of Canton.

Transportation

Sidewalk Improvements on Omaha Street
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says sidewalk construction will begin along Omaha Street today, Aug. 17.

Guardrail Work to Resume on I-90 Near Sturgis
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says guardrail work will resume on Interstate 90 in the east and westbound lanes at mile markers 32 and 35 east of Sturgis on Monday, Aug. 24, 2020.

Public Safety

Sunday Aug. 16 Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Tally (FINAL NUMBERS)
Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 08, 2020 to 6 a.m. Sunday August 16, 2020

Public Safety

Saturday Aug. 15 Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Tally
Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 8, 2020 to 6 a.m. Saturday August 15, 2020

Governor Kristi Noem

Parents Agree: Let’s Get Our Kids Back to School
Over the last few weeks, I had several opportunities to meet with parents across our beautiful state to discuss getting our kids back into school buildings this fall.

Governor Noem Grateful for President Trump’s Continued Leadership on COVID-19 Recovery
Today, Governor Kristi Noem issued the following statement on President Trump’s “Lost Wages Assistance” Presidential Memo:

Corrections

Inmate Placed on Escape Status
Inmate Cornell Miles walked out of the Sioux Falls Community Work Center August 13 and failed to return.

Education

State Library congratulates second-round recipients of Library Technology grants
The South Dakota State Library is pleased to announce 16 recipients of the second round of Library Technology grants funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the federal CARES Act.

Health

Potential COVID-19 Exposure in Hill City
State Health officials announced Friday, August 14, that an employee of the Bumpin’ Buffalo Bar and Grill at 245 Main Street in Hill City has tested positive for COVID-19.

Potential COVID-19 Exposure in Sioux Falls
State Health officials announced Friday, August 14, that an individual who attended the Big and Rich Concert at the Sioux Empire Fair in Sioux Falls has tested positive for COVID-19.

Potential COVID-19 Exposure in Brookings
State Health officials announced Friday, August 14, that an individual who visited 9 Bar and Nightclub at 303 Main Avenue in Brookings has tested positive for COVID-19.

Public Safety

Friday Aug. 14 Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Tally
Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 8, 2020 to 6 a.m. Friday August 14, 2020

Transportation

2020 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Counts – Through Day 7
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 80th annual Sturgis motorcycle rally Aug. 7-16, 2020, are available and will be updated daily.

Closures on I-229 For 26th Street Bridge Work
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says closures on I-229 will disrupt traffic the week of Aug. 17.

Concrete Surface Repairs Starting West of Custer
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says work on Highway 16 west of Custer from the Wyoming State Line going east to Jewel Cave National Park will begin Wednesday, Aug. 19.

Agriculture

Goldstar Amusements to Return to the 2020 South Dakota State Fair
Goldstar Amusements will return as the carnival company at the 2020 South Dakota State Fair.

Education

Her Vote. Her Voice. Centennial Launch Kicks Off in August in Conjunction with National Women’s Suffrage Month
The 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote is Aug. 26, and the Her Vote. Her Voice. delegation is celebrating this momentous achievement with a week of special events and a special way to honor women through a statewide virtual Honor Wall.

Environment and Natural Resources

DENR Announces New Harmful Algal Blooms Website and Interactive Map
The South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is pleased to announce a new harmful algal blooms (HABs) webpage and interactive map providing information about HABs, their reported locations, and DENR’s HABs monitoring efforts.

Health

Potential COVID-19 Exposure in Sioux Falls
State Health officials announced Thursday, August 13, that an employee of the Scarlett Ohara’s Gentleman’s Club at 3201 S. Carolyn Ave. in Sioux Falls has tested positive for COVID-19.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Initial Weekly Claims Increase
During the week of Aug. 2-8, a total of 911 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Public Safety

Thursday Aug. 13 Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Tally
Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 8, 2020 to 6 a.m. Thursday August 13, 2020

Transportation

I 29 Exit 242/ Exit 246 Interchange Ramp Construction
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says crews will be closing two exits on Interstate 29 beginning Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2020.

2020 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Counts – Through Day 6
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 80h annual Sturgis motorcycle rally Aug. 7-16, 2020, are available and will be updated daily.

Agriculture

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture Submits Hemp Plan to the United States Department of Agriculture
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) submitted its plan to regulate industrial hemp in South Dakota to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for final approval.

Public Safety

Wednesday Aug. 12 Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Tally
Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 8, 2020 to 6 a.m. Wednesday August 12, 2020

Transportation

2020 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Counts – Through Day 5
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 80h annual Sturgis motorcycle rally Aug. 7-16, 2020, are available and will be updated daily.

Public Safety

Tuesday Aug. 11 Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information
Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 8, 2020 to 6 a.m. Tuesday August 11, 2020

Transportation

2020 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Counts – Through Day 4
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 80h annual Sturgis motorcycle rally Aug. 7-16, 2020, are available and will be updated daily.

Board of Regents

Special Schools Prepare for Fall Start
South Dakota’s School for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Aberdeen and School for the Deaf in Sioux Falls continue to plan for the return of students for the 2020-2021 school year.

South Dakota 811

It's 811 Day! Call 811 Before Digging
South Dakota 811 is wishing South Dakota residents a great 811 Day!

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP Employees Receive Recognition
PIERRE, S.D. – Two South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) employees have received recognition for their work in Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

Public Safety

Monday Aug. 10 Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information
Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 8, 2020 to 6 a.m. Monday August 10, 2020

Transportation

AMENDED: 2020 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Counts
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 80h annual Sturgis motorcycle rally Aug. 7-16, 2020, are available and will be updated daily.

Public Safety

Sunday Aug. 9 Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information
Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 8, 2020 to 6 a.m. Sunday August 9, 2020

Governor Kristi Noem

An Optimistic Outlook
Last week, when I was in Sioux Falls to discuss reopening schools with parents and superintendents, I saw a great bulletin board in a 4th grade classroom.

Public Safety

Highway Patrol: Traffic Safety A Necessity At Sturgis Rally
PIERRE, S.D. –- As the 80th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally begins this week, the message of the South Dakota Department of Public Safety remains the same as in past years: Stay safe.

Name Released In Hutchinson County Fatal Crash
FREEMAN, S.D. – A Tabor, S.D. woman has been identified as the person who died early Tuesday morning in a one-vehicle crash south of Freeman.

South Dakota 811

South Dakota 811 and 811 Day
South Dakota 811 encourages people to make a free request at least two days before digging to avoid damaging buried utilities.

Education

Education department announces guidelines for 2020-21 free or reduced-price meal programs
Child and Adult Nutrition Services in the South Dakota Department of Education announces the policy for free milk or free and reduced-price meals. The policy applies to children unable to pay the full price of meals or milk served under the National School Lunch, School Breakfast, Special Milk, and/or Child and Adult Care Food Programs (CACFP). The administrative office of each school or agency that participates in any of these federal programs has a copy of the policy available for review.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Initial Weekly Claims Decrease
During the week of July 26 through Aug. 1, a total of 731 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Transportation

Asphalt overlay on Highway 1804
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says construction work will begin on Highway 1804 on Monday, Aug. 10.

Agriculture

South Dakota State Fairgrounds to Host National Red Power Round Up August 8-10
South Dakota Red Power Chapter 21 welcomes all International Harvester collectors, vendors, and the general public to the 2020 National Red Power Round Up to be held at the South Dakota State Fairgrounds in Huron, August 8-10.

Game, Fish and Parks

Zebra Mussels Confirmed in Lake Cochrane
Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) has confirmed the presence of adult zebra mussels in Lake Cochrane in Deuel County.

Tourism

SOUTH DAKOTA ARTISTS TO BE FEATURED ON MAJOR NATIONAL STAGE
The South Dakota Arts Council is partnering with the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and an outstanding group of South Dakota artists to produce the live, virtual performance, Love Fight Pray: Rising Očhéthi Šakówiŋ Voices on Monday, August 10, as part of Arts Across America.

Transportation

I-29 Temporary Ramp Closures
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will be closing two ramps on Interstate 29 for paving operations.

Housing Development

Homeowner Rehabilitation Program Funds Available
South Dakota Housing Development Authority has $1,000,000 available in HOME Homeowner Rehabilitation program funds for eligible organizations to assist low income homeowners rehabilitate their homes. Eligible organizations that can apply for the HOME Homeowner Rehabilitation program include Community Action Program (CAP) agencies and qualified non-profit organizations.

Game, Fish and Parks

Pet Owners Should Be Aware of Blue-Green Algae
PIERRE, S.D. – As the “dog days” of summer roll on, South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks officials would like to warn pet owners of blue-green algae blooms that are appearing in ponds and lakes across the state.

Health

South Dakota Supports Breastfeeding
In acknowledgment of the importance of breastfeeding to the health of South Dakota, Gov. Kristi Noem has proclaimed August 2020 Breastfeeding Awareness Month in South Dakota.

Public Safety

Hutchinson County Fatal Crash
FREEMAN, S.D. – One woman died early Tuesday morning in a one-vehicle crash south of Freeman.

Transportation

New Signal Installation on Highway 212 at 33rd Street East
The South Dakota Department of Transportation, says construction will begin on Highway 212 at the intersection of 33rd Street East on Wednesday, Aug. 5.

South Dakota 811

South Dakota One Call Celebrates 811 Day
South Dakota One Call encourages people to make a free request at least two days before digging to avoid damaging buried lines.

Housing Development

South Dakota Housing Development Authority Welcomes New Board Member
Gov. Kristi Noem has appointed Preston Steele to the South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) Board of Commissioners.

Agriculture

Tenth Annual South Dakota Timed Event Championship Rodeo Planned for the 2020 South Dakota State Fair
The tenth annual South Dakota Timed Event Championship (SDTEC) Rodeo sponsored in part by Panhandle, LG Seeds, and Double D Western will be held September 5 and 6 in at the South Dakota State Fairgrounds in Huron during the 2020 South Dakota State Fair.

Education

South Dakota awarded $6.9 million Rethink K-12 Education Models Grant
The U.S. Department of Education has awarded the South Dakota Department of Education a Rethink K-12 Education Models Grant in the amount of $6,883,481 to support the state’s efforts to better serve students during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. South Dakota is one of only 11 states to be awarded one of these grants. Thirty-nine states applied.

Governor Kristi Noem

Getting Our Kids Back to School
As the calendar turns to August, we are getting closer to that time of year when kids go back to school. In South Dakota, our kids will be in classrooms this fall

Governor Noem Announces Chris Young Coming to Sioux Falls for Inaugural Sportsmen’s Showcase and Concert
Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that award-winning country music superstar Chris Young will headline the concert at this year’s inaugural Governor Noem’s Sportsmen’s Showcase and Concert.

Education

State Historical Society announces fall Deadwood Fund grant applications
The South Dakota State Historical Society announces that the applications for the next round of the Deadwood Fund grant program should be postmarked no later than Oct. 1 for work beginning no sooner than Jan. 1, 2021.

Public Safety

DPS Sobriety Checkpoint Schedule Announced For August
PIERRE, S.D. – Sixteen sobriety checkpoints in 12 different counties are planned for August by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.

Agriculture

Tickets On Sale Now for 2020 South Dakota State Fair
Tickets are now on sale for the 2020 South Dakota State Fair. Tickets for the grandstand events and general gate admission passes can be purchased on the State Fair website at www.sdstatefair.com, over the phone at (866) 605-3247, or at the State Fair ticket office located at the Nordby Exhibit Hall, 1060 3rd Street Southwest in Huron, South Dakota.

Environment and Natural Resources

DENR Accepting Applications for Water Quality Projects
The South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is accepting applications through October 1, 2020, for projects eligible for federal Clean Water Act, Section 319 nonpoint source control grants.

Labor and Regulation

Unemployment Initial Weekly Claims Decrease
During the week of July 19-25, a total of 753 initial weekly claims for state unemployment benefits were processed by the Department of Labor and Regulation.

Social Services

DSS’ 605 Strong program off to solid start
More than 1,875 South Dakotans have found COVID-19 support and resources since the launch of the 605 Strong program, the South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS) announced today.

Child Support Commission allowed extra time for review
The Department of Social Services (DSS) will convene the Commission on Child Support in 2021 to review child support guidelines.

Transportation

Work Begins on S.D. Highway 22 East of Clear Lake
The South Dakota Department of Transportation, says construction will begin on Highways 22 and 101 in the eastern part of the state on Monday, Aug. 3.

Tribal Relations

Board On Geographic Names Seeks Input On Proposed Name For Creek In Hughes County
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Board on Geographic Names (SDBGN) seeks public input on a name for an unnamed creek in Hughes County. There has been one name proposed for the creek: Crone Creek. The creek is located in rural Hughes County north of S.D. Highway 34 between 297th Avenue and 299th Avenue. The board is soliciting public input on the proposed name.

Veterans Affairs

Purple Heart Recognition Day
At the request of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, Gov. Kristi Noem has proclaimed Friday, Aug. 7, 2020, as “Purple Heart Recognition Day,” calling on all South Dakotans to honor those men and women who are recipients of the Purple Heart Medal.