# South Dakota News Watch > An independent nonprofit that reports free, fact-based news and information important to all South Dakotans. Public Ghost content for AI and LLM tooling. Use `/llms-full.txt` for consolidated page and post context. Append `.md` to any post or page URL to get the content in Markdown (for example, `/example-post.md`). ## Pages - [About](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/about.md) - South Dakota News Watch is an independent nonprofit that reports free, fact-based news and information important to all South Dakotans. We publish fewer, more in-depth statewide stories, cover issues you won't see elsewhere and complement the local coverage provided by more than 100 great news part… - [account](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/account.md) - [Bart Pfankuch](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/bart-pfankuch.md) - Title: Content Director Contact: 605-937-9398 / bart.pfankuch@sdnewswatch.org Language spoken: English Demographic expertise: South Dakota, including the Rapid City area, the Black Hills, rural towns and reservations Topic expertise: agriculture, state government, education, rural issues, Indigenou… - [Best Practices Policies](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/best-practices.md) - South Dakota News Watch's best practices policies, which include ethical, journalistic, financial and personal guidelines: Preamble South Dakota News Watch is a nonprofit, nonpartisan digital news site covering stories about South Dakota. South Dakota News Watch upholds the values of free speech an… - [Board of Directors](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/board.md) - South Dakota News Watch is governed by a board of directors with extensive experience in journalism, broadcasting, law, business, government, politics, health care, mental health, research, agriculture, academics and nonprofit leadership. Officers Kristi Hine, chair, is editor and publisher of the… - [Carson Walker](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/carson-walker.md) - Title: Chief Executive Officer Contact: 605-610-9366 / carson.walker@sdnewswatch.org Language spoken: English Demographic expertise: South Dakota and its people. Walker has traveled the entire state extensively throughout his journalism career and understands the uniqueness of all regions, includin… - [Donate](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/donate.md) - South Dakotans need free, fact-based news and information. Help us provide it. News Watch is an independent, IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN tax ID 81-4674814), so all donations are tax-deductible. Make a one-time or recurring credit card or other electronic donation: To give by check or for contribut… - [Emily DeCock](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/emily-decock.md) - Title: Reporter Contact: 605-736-4396 / emily.decock@sdnewswatch.org Language spoken: English Demographic expertise: South Dakota and rural areas Topic expertise: Higher education, civic programs and local government Biography: Emily DeCock grew up in southwest Minnesota and graduated in 2026 from… - [Where to find our stories](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/find-us.md) - Website SDNewsWatch.org is where we publish all stories, photos, interactive graphics and other content. For easier access on an Apple product, you can turn that web page into an application or home screen icon. Here's how to do it on a Mac computer or an iPhone or iPad. Or simplify the view in the… - [Mission Statement](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/footer-info-left.md) - South Dakota News Watch is an independent, nonprofit organization reporting untold stories that help South Dakotans be informed and engaged citizens. South Dakota News Watch produces investigative and public service journalism that sheds light on the issues, concerns and welfare of South Dakotans. - [Contact/Tax Details](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/footer-info-right.md) - IRS 501(c)(3) tax ID: 81-4674814 Mail: 1125 32nd Ave / Brookings SD 57006 General email: info@sdnewswatch.org News email: news@sdnewswatch.org Call/text: 605-215-6225 - [Home](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/home.md) - [Megan Luther](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/megan-luther.md) - Title: Freelance Reporter Contact: megan.luther@sdnewswatch.org Language spoken: English Demographic expertise: South Dakota and rural areas Topic expertise: rural issues, adoption, addiction, demographics and data Potential conflict of interest: Luther’s family runs independent grocery stores. She… - [Michael Klinski](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/michael-klinski.md) - Title: Freelance Reporter Contact: michael.klinski@sdnewswatch.org Languages spoken: English and some French Demographic expertise: South Dakota Topic expertise: child care issues, South Dakota history/current events/politics, criminal justice and crime, college and high school sports and its cultu… - [Molly Wetsch](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/molly-wetsch.md) - Title: Reporter / Report for America Corps Member Contact: 605-531-7382 / molly.wetsch@sdnewswatch.org Languages spoken: English, some Spanish Topic expertise: Indigenous people, rural communities, business, education Biography: Molly Wetsch was born and raised in South Dakota. Wetsch previously se… - [Republishing policy: Steal our stuff (just credit us)](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/republishing-policy.md) - South Dakota News Watch provides all content for free to our own readers and more than 100 news partner broadcasters, newspapers and online sites as well as other organizations that agree to the terms outlined in this republishing policy. Our stories and photos are licensed under Creative Commons C… - [Staff and Freelancers (bugged, don't use)](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/staff-old.md) - South Dakota News Watch is staffed by a chief executive officer, investigative journalists, freelance journalists and interns. Carson Walker Title: chief executive officer Contact: 605-610-9366 / carson.walker@sdnewswatch.org Language spoken: English Demographic expertise: South Dakota and its peop… - [Staff and Freelancers](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/staff.md) - South Dakota News Watch is staffed by full-time staff, freelancers, contractors and interns: - [Supporters](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/supporters.md) - As a 501(c)(3) public charity (EIN 81-4674814), South Dakota News Watch relies on the financial support of its readers, foundations and nonprofits that support independent journalism and on some of its more than 100 media partners that can republish stories at no cost. Membership isn't like a subsc… - [Tax/Governance Documents](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/tax-governance-documents.md) - South Dakota News Watch, a 501(c)(3) public charity (EIN 81-4674814), is accountable to the community at large and the people who rely upon it as a trusted source of news and information. In the interest of transparency, the most recent IRS Form 990 federal tax return, legal certificates and govern… ## Posts - [Individual donations fund Democratic candidates](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-governor-secretary-of-state-campaign-finance.md) - Democratic secretary of state candidate outraises 2022 candidate, gets Republican incumbent's endorsement. Governor candidate reports no out-of-state or federal PAC money. - [South Dakota voter guide](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-voter-guide-primary-general-election.md) - Everything to know about registering and voting in statewide elections, and who and what are on the ballot. - [Poll: Gov. Rhoden leads challenger Ahlers 56-36%](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-poll-2026-governor-ahlers-rhoden.md) - Scientific survey sponsored by South Dakota News Watch and Chiesman Center for Democracy at USD also shows half of voters have a favorable view of Larry Rhoden and half of registered independents support Dan Ahlers. - [Voter education events set for Brandon, Sioux Falls, Yankton](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-civics-media-politics-voting-series.md) - Free nonpartisan gatherings on the election and nation's 250th anniversary include discussions about civic responsibilities, how to find fact-based news and information, the ballot measures and voting. - [Explainer: What to know about the 2026 South Dakota pheasant hunting season](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-pheasant-hunting-season.md) - Opening day is today, and it's expected bird numbers will be high after a couple of years of mostly excellent nesting conditions across the state. - [Local and legislative elections to watch this November](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/local-legislative-south-dakota-elections-2026.md) - The South Dakota Legislature will see an Independent for the first time in over a decade, and school districts will vote on millions of dollars in bonds. - [National Civics Bee winners - and how to get involved next year](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/national-civics-bee-winner.md) - Brandon student represented South Dakota, but those from Colorado, Florida and Michigan took home prizes. - [Fact brief: Is the measles vaccination rate decreasing in SD?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-measles-mumps-rubella-mmr-vaccine-rate.md) - United States Department of Health has goal of vaccinating 95% of kindergarteners by 2030. - [After decades without a new house, Tripp developing its own](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/tripp-south-dakota-housing-development.md) - The small town south of Mitchell had no new homes built in nearly 30 years, stalling potential growth. But now, a coordinated local effort is leading to new houses and new opportunities. - [Fact brief roundup: US House debate](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-fact-brief-us-house-debate-jackley-gronli.md) - A check of statements made during the Oct. 1 debate between Democrat Nikki Gronli and Republican Marty Jackley. - [Housing solutions from across South Dakota](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/engage-south-dakota-housing-rent-own-solutions-journalism.md) - A list of entities and programs that can assist in developing or obtaining housing as well as links to News Watch reporting on housing solutions. - [More SD students and athletes coming from neighboring states](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-education-students-other-states.md) - How a 20-year-old precedent has shaped the way rural schools keep up with declining enrollment rates. About 60 students from Minnesota now attend school in the Milbank School District – nearly 6% of the student body. - [Ticket sales up at SD's 2 professional symphony orchestras](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-black-hills-symphony-2026.md) - “People seem to feel that they need to know something about it before they can come. There's also a perception that you have to dress up, like tuxedos or dresses and this sort of thing. Neither of those things are true.” - [Smithfield: The full story, from announcement to court ruling](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-smithfield-move-full-story.md) - Read News Watch's coverage of Sioux Falls' massive new pork processing facility, from beginning to where it is now. - [Heard in South Dakota / ZIP 577: People and issues from the west](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/engage-south-dakota-zip-code-577-west.md) - The second installment of our Heard in South Dakota series brought us to the west and southwest region of the state. - [Custer State Park concessions going to out-of-state operator](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-custer-state-park-concessions-xanterra.md) - Colorado-based Xanterra Travel Collection to take over Feb. 1 after Game, Fish and Parks Commission approves the deal. - [Fact Brief: Can political ads use images of journalists without permission?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-fact-brief-tv-stations-political-ads.md) - An ad for U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds, paid for by a political action committee, featured long-time anchor Tom Hanson, prompting the station to respond. - [Spirit of Dakota Award marks 40 years of recognizing women](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/spirit-south-dakota-award-women-teacher-volunteer.md) - A longtime Mitchell teacher's story illustrates why one of South Dakota's longest-running honors has stood for four decades. - [Fact brief roundup: Governor debate](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-roundup-2026-governor-debate.md) - A check of statements made during the Sept. 28 debate between Democrat Dan Ahlers and Republican Gov. Larry Rhoden. - [Lessons learned from recent SD cyberattacks](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-pennington-county-cyberattack-ransomware.md) - Pennington County suffered a serious cyberattack in July, leading to security upgrades and a desire to help others learn from the experience. Mitchell also was hit. - [Judge sends Smithfield conditional use permit back to city](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-judge-overturns-smithfield-conditional-use-permit.md) - Circuit Judge Ann Hoffman sides with nearby homeowners, cites "irregular authority" in Sioux Falls City Council's approval despite not complying with ordinances and strategic plan. - [Brandon student to represent SD in National Civics Bee](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/brandon-student-to-represent-sd-in-national-civics-bee.md) - The annual competition will be held Wednesday, Oct. 14, in Washington. Viewers can watch Chloe Dabney and other middle schoolers from across the nation compete live. - [Fact brief: Did a campaign tell SD broadcasters to stop running an ad?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-fact-brief-amendment-l-opponents-ad.md) - The request was over Amendment L, which would require that any proposed amendment to the South Dakota Constitution receive at least 60% of the vote to pass. - [Drought and tourists reshape Custer area landscape](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/buffalo-roundup-drought-tourists-2026-south-dakota.md) - Why the state park is auctioning off more bison than usual following the annual roundup, and how tourists have helped shape the event. - [Fact brief: Were some Pokemon cards produced in South Dakota?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-pokemon-cards-howard-south-dakota-millenium-group.md) - The trading card game is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026 and is more popular than ever. - [Igloo bunkers owner sued in federal RICO civil fraud lawsuit](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-igloo-bunker-rico-civil-fraud-lawsuit.md) - The Vivos xPoint "prepper" complex near Edgemont has been the subject of frequent litigation. Now the owner is accused of financial improprieties and racketeering. - [Free training this week on South Dakota's juvenile laws](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/free-training-south-dakota-juvenile-laws-crime.md) - Hour-long virtual session on Friday, Oct. 2, is open to journalists, students, court staff and members of the public interested in how the state's juvenile justice system works. - [In photos: 2026 Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-photos-2026-custer-state-park-buffalo-roundup.md) - Scenes from the 61st annual roundup attended by more than 20,000 tourists. "People that I talked to along the way were just super stoked." - [SD Humanities Council to host Festival of Books in October](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-humanities-council-festival-of-books.md) - Federal budget cuts reduce annual gathering from a weekend to one day in Sioux Falls. One featured author wrote about the history of Mount Rushmore. - [USPS audit confirms longstanding mail issues in SD](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/postal-service-usps-audit-mail-delays-south-dakota.md) - Mail sent between South Dakota addresses often shipped out-of-state, contributing to long delivery times "below nationwide averages." - [Fact brief: Do Independents and no-party voters outnumber Democrats in SD?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-independents-npa-voter-registration-south-dakota.md) - Voters are Independent/NPA if they write “Independent, I, Ind, no party affiliation, no party, no choice, nonpartisan or cross off the party. - [Heard in South Dakota / ZIP 572: People and issues from the northeast](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/heard-in-south-dakota-zip-572-people-and-issues-from-the-northeast.md) - Unique glacial lake landscape brings unique qualities to northeast South Dakota, though many small towns face similar issues. - [Engage South Dakota: News Watch wants to hear from you](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/engage-south-dakota-community-engagement-zip3.md) - Community engagement project will identify issues the entire state should know about, people whose voices aren't often heard and grassroots solutions to challenges through in-person visits, reader surveys and virtual gatherings. - [Fact brief: Does SD have the most bison in the US?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-fact-brief-most-bison-buffalo-roundup.md) - Buffalo populations have rebounded after the animal was hunted to near-extinction in the 1800s. - [South Dakotans asked to help in research of 'news deserts'](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-news-deserts-you-can-trust-me.md) - As a new foundation launches to help fund media organizations, two upcoming discussions will focus on how people get their news in order to ensure access to trusted information. - [Smithfield move: How to preserve rural areas as metro grows](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/sioux-falls-growth-smithfield-crooks-south-dakota-economic-development.md) - How the addition of a pork processing plant to the state's largest industrial park has sparked conversation about "responsible growth" in the Sioux Falls metro area. - [Fact brief: Is SD's public university enrollment higher than pre-pandemic levels?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-south-dakota-public-university-enrollment-pandemic.md) - The Board of Regents announced that Sept. 10 enrollment has decreased overall at three of its public universities and increased at the other three. - [More South Dakotans now vote early](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-early-absentee-mail-in-voting-2026-election.md) - It's part of a national trend that could have been impacted by a federal ruling on mail-in ballots. Voters in the state also do a better job of staying "active." - [Fact brief: Did an NFL team sponsor girls flag football in SD?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-nfl-girls-flag-football-south-dakota.md) - It's one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S. but not fully sanctioned in all states. - [Couple finds life next to limestone mine unnerving](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-limestone-mine-simon-contractors-pete-lien-black-hawk.md) - Without local zoning, retirees contend with blasts and dust from two new mines near their Black Hills home that could foretell what nearby Piedmont residents can expect. - [News Watch and DWU again sponsoring state spelling bee](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/news-watch-dakota-wesleyan-scripps-spelling-bee.md) - Elementary and middle schools as well as family home schools can now register to qualify for the Feb. 6 bee at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell. - [Fact brief: Did long coffee lines prompt a police response in SD?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-7-brew-promotion-south-dakota-sioux-falls-rapid-city.md) - A fact brief on whether nationwide disruptions over a Sept. 7 squishy toy promotion were reported in South Dakota. - [Bill in Congress would help SD keep more of its top college athletes](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-sdsu-jackrabbits-usd-coyotes-protect-college-sports-athletes.md) - Tumultuous regulation changes in recent years have set the stage for legislation that could stabilize the national landscape of college sports. - [Fact brief: Can Gov. Larry Rhoden run again in 2030 if he wins election this fall?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-south-dakota-larry-rhoden-gubernatorial-term-election-2026.md) - Rhoden was promoted to governor from lieutenant governor on Jan. 27, 2025 after Noem took DHS position. - [Monastery makeover: Nuns leave lasting legacy of service in Watertown](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/watertown-south-dakota-monastery-affordable-housing.md) - The aging Benedictine sisters had a late-in-life decision to make: sell their land and live out their final years elsewhere or stay in Watertown and remake their monastery into a campus of housing, health care and community resources. - [South Dakota media update](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-media-update-september-2026.md) - Recent developments in the state's news and information industry. - [Guide: South Dakota news and information](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-news-information-guide.md) - A map and menu of South Dakota media: newspapers, broadcasters, digital sites, podcasts, magazines and blogs. - [Drought adds to pastureland challenges](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-pastureland-challenges.md) - "As (farmers and ranchers) approach how to make a life in ranching, they've had to look at what works from the past but what they can do differently to make it more sustainable." - [Daktronics part of NBA and SEC inquiry into team and player](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-daktronics-nba-securities-kawhi-leonard-clippers.md) - Brookings, S.D., company that makes scoreboards, video displays and signs confirms request for information over "impermissible endorsement arrangements." - [South Dakota Hall of Fame's location looms large for inductee](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-hall-of-fame-daniel-petereit-2026.md) - Dr. Daniel Petereit is 1 of 10 being honored in the Class of 2026: 'The thing that's ironic is, for me, it all kind of started in Chamberlain in that stretch of the river.' - [2026 South Dakota Hall of Fame inductees](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/2026-south-dakota-hall-of-fame-inductees.md) - 10 people with backgrounds in health, philanthropy, arts, business, agriculture and more will be honored in the annual ceremony Sept. 11-12 in Chamberlain and Oacoma. - [Fact brief: Did any SD ballot issue pass by 60% in past 5 years?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-south-dakota-ballot-measure-60-percent.md) - A constitutional amendment on the Nov. 3 ballot would raise the threshold for passing such measures. - [Explainer: Automatic license plate readers (Flock cameras)](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-explainer-automatic-license-plate-readers-flock-cameras.md) - How the technology attracting privacy concerns is being used in South Dakota, and how it may soon be regulated. - [Fact brief: Do SD voters become ‘inactive’ after not casting a ballot for 4 years?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-south-dakota-voter-registration-inactive.md) - Absentee voting in South Dakota for the Nov. 3 general election begins on Sept. 18, and the deadline to register or change registration is Oct. 19. - [Wells drying up at homes and ranches due to heat and drought](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-water-wells-drying-up-heat-drought.md) - Long-term drought conditions have forced rural West River residents and ranchers who rely on wells to scramble to find water to keep their families and livestock alive. - [SD postal problems largely unchanged as Congress weighs legislation](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-postal-service-mail-congress-legislation.md) - U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds began his pressure on the U.S. Postal Service in December. Among the feedback received: Post office employees asked to hide piles of mail. - [Hutterites' agricultural contributions in South Dakota](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-hutterites-agriculture-manufacturing-farming.md) - Making up 10% of the farming population, the state's colonies play a large role in the state's agricultural and manufacturing industries. - [Q&A: Hutterites in South Dakota](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/hutterites-south-dakota-lifestyle-culture.md) - A look inside the state's second-oldest colony, the history of Hutterites and their communal ways of living. - [Fact brief: Do people who make over $500K per year qualify for Affordable Care Act subsidies?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-affordable-care-act-subsidies-income-requirements.md) - Temporary legislation from 2021 to 2025 changed rules on who is eligible for breaks on health insurance. - [How donors in De Smet are bringing big projects to little town on the prairie](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-de-smet-history-laura-ingalls-wilder-legacy.md) - Using few tax dollars, local boosters raised millions in donations to expand a hospital, build a community center, revive the downtown and further capitalize on the legacy of author Laura Ingalls Wilder. - [SD courts seeking input on proposed merger of 2 western circuits](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-courts-western-circuits-merger-preview.md) - Public forums on Wednesday held by the South Dakota Unified Judicial System (UJS) will share information with the public and ask for their feedback regarding the proposed merger of the Fourth and Seventh judicial circuits. - [Fact brief: Does SD have the lowest eligible free/reduced lunch rate among neighboring states?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-fact-brief-school-lunches-free-reduced-poverty-line.md) - More students to receive free lunches in South Dakota this school year after new law passed. - [More workers than retirees drove South Dakota’s growth](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-migration-retirees-population-growth.md) - The migration story is often associated with retirees moving to the state, but new analysis of Census data shows working-age adults made up the largest share of recent newcomers. - [Solutions-based programs filling resource gaps in schools](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-school-resources-promising-futures-fund.md) - South Dakota efforts that help disadvantaged students provide support for districts with high poverty rates. - [Fact brief: Are there maternity care deserts in South Dakota?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-south-dakota-maternity-care-deserts.md) - Regions with no obstetric clinicians or birthing facilities are most prominent in the Midwest and South. - [Explainer: What conditional use permits are, why Crooks residents sued](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-smithfield-crooks-sioux-falls-lawsuit.md) - The lawsuit over a conditional use permit reflects a longstanding tension between residents, often of rural areas, and those who make decisions about how the land around them gets used. - [Fact brief: Did a recent poll specifically ask South Dakotans whether they approve of Trump?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-south-dakota-poll-trump-approval.md) - A check of recent reports on the president's popularity. - [SD taxpayers spend millions on cyberattacks after federal grant rejected](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-cyberattacks-government-spending.md) - Recent security hacks on local governments in South Dakota are latest of more than 1,000 in the state over past five years. - [Special education federal shift: commitment remains, but future is unclear](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-special-education-federal-shift-civil-rights.md) - A recent federal shift in special education oversight raises uncertainty in future handling of civil cases involving discrimination based on disability. - [Job Corps program in Black Hills open and fully funded](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-job-corps-nemo-government-funding.md) - The job-training facility for low-income youths and young adults at Nemo was under threat of closure by the Trump administration for nearly a year. - [Fact brief: Is it legal to wear only body paint as clothing at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-fact-brief-body-paint-sturgis-rally.md) - The rally started Aug. 7 and runs through Aug. 16 in the Black Hills town. - [Ahlers announces lt. gov. pick, finalizing November ballot for SD Democrats](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-ahlers-mccleery-governor-democrats.md) - Steven McCleerey is a farmer and former legislator from Sisseton seeking the Democratic office of lieutenant governor for Ahlers. - ['A new canvas:' Freeman Academy enters transitional period](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-freeman-academy-transition-private-school.md) - After over 120 years of serving the Freeman community, the private school is closing its doors to students and entering a transitional period. - [Fact brief: Does SD require campaign signs to come down after elections?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-campaign-signs-larry-rhoden-toby-doeden.md) - State law requires cities to allow campaign signs, which are not allowed on state highway rights-of-way. - [Mitchell baseball libel lawsuit against American Legion, media dismissed](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-mitchell-baseball-defamation-lawsuit.md) - More than a year after the case by a former Mitchell baseball player was filed, a judge has ruled that statements made by the American Legion and circulated by the Mitchell Republic and KELO-TV do not constitute defamation. - [3-wheeled cycles a hot ride in Sturgis even as hidden safety issue arises](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-sturgis-rally-3-wheeled-cycles-safety.md) - Trikes, Spyders and Slingshots are growing in popularity, but they can prove tricky on turns, as evidenced by a recent wreck that killed a Sioux Falls woman. - [Woman's response to COVID: 4,000 mile-trip through SE South Dakota](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-documentary-joy-of-the-heartland.md) - What started as a pickup ride to get out of the house during the pandemic turned into a mission to spread joy and inspire. - [Vinatieri talks about family, love of game in Hall of Fame speech](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-vinatieri-hall-of-fame-speech.md) - "Here I stand at the top of the mountain, the pinnacle of greatness, the highest achievement. I can officially say my biggest dreams have come true." - [Adam Vinatieri joins Pro Football Hall of Fame](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-state-adam-vinatieri-pro-football-hall.md) - NFL kicker was born in Yankton, grew up in Rapid City and played at South Dakota State University in Brookings. Becomes only the second South Dakotan to be enshrined in Canton, Ohio. - [The kicker who replaced a benched Adam Vinatieri](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-state-kicker-jim-remme-adam-vinatieri.md) - Jim Remme filled in for the future Hall of Famer during a slump when they played at South Dakota State. “Well, of course, we didn't know how this was all going to transpire." - [All My Relatives festival celebrates Native American culture](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-all-my-relatives-artist-festival-sioux-falls-event.md) - The annual gathering in Sioux Falls features Native American artists on Saturday, Aug. 29, at Levitt at the Falls - [Fact brief: Did Gov. Larry Rhoden increase fees to obtain a concealed carry permit?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-larry-rhoden-concealed-carry-permit-fees.md) - State laws regarding concealed carry have been revised in recent years. - [Changing visa rules create doubt for students and employers](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/visa-rules-south-dakota-international-students-employers-college.md) - As South Dakota universities and major employers navigate a tight labor market, shifting federal policies and a new rule ending "Duration of Status" prompt uncertainty for international students, high-skilled faculty and seasonal businesses. - [Fact brief: Are red light cameras illegal in South Dakota?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-red-light-cameras-south-dakota-lawsuit.md) - A lawsuit filed in 2010 claimed Sioux Falls violated state law by placing a camera at the downtown intersection. - [How SD hospitals fared in the latest quality ratings](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/cms-hospital-ratings-patients-quality-sd-avera-sanford.md) - Eighteen systems were included in the 2026 list from the federal government. The annual ratings allow patients to gauge medical care quality and can provide motivation for hospitals to improve. - [Grant program supports tribal food truck operation](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/mobile-hunger-hero-food-truck-sd-reservations-team-buche-cares.md) - Mobile Hunger Hero, a food truck that delivers meals to remote locations, is increasing available meals to tribal communities across South Dakota. - [Experts: Cyberattack on Pennington County likely by foreign adversary](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/experts-cyberattack-on-pennington-county-likely-by-foreign-adversary.md) - The federal government has warned state and local agencies in the U.S. that cyberattacks by Iran, Russia or China are increasingly likely and that steps to improve security should be taken. "I think we’re cannon fodder in the Iran war." - [Fact brief: Did Toby Doeden’s vote share decrease in runoff?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/sd-gubernatorial-primary-runoff-results-toby-doeden-larry-rhoden.md) - Candidate lost to incumbent Larry Rhoden in South Dakota's Republican primary runoff - [Rhoden wins South Dakota Republican runoff for governor](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-2026-republican-governor-runoff.md) - Gov. Larry Rhoden took a 71% to 29% lead early and maintained it over Toby Doeden. - [Live results: South Dakota Republican governor runoff](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-republican-gop-governor-runoff-results-2026.md) - Updated vote numbers on the statewide election total and for each county in the contest between Toby Doeden and Gov. Larry Rhoden. - [Fact brief: Are all polling places for SD's runoff election the same as the primary?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-sd-polling-places-gubernatorial-runoff-primary.md) - Republicans vote Tuesday, July 28, between Gov. Larry Rhoden and Toby Doeden, the two top vote-getters in the June 2 primary election. - [SD Republican gubernatorial runoff: How we got here](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/sd-republican-gubernatorial-primary-runoff-larry-rhoden-toby-doeden.md) - A timeline of how the state's first-ever gubernatorial runoff shaped up, from candidate announcements to underdog wins. - [Big paydays result from $50M auction of SD T. rex skeleton](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/dinosaur-trex-gus-science-fossil-sales-auction-sothebys.md) - The high sales price for Gus the T. rex could stimulate greater interest in South Dakota's fossil hunting and dinosaur museum industries. - [Fact brief: Is SD the only state with 35% election runoff rule?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-south-dakota-runoff-election-larry-rhoden-toby-doeden.md) - Republicans Gov. Larry Rhoden and Toby Doeden meet July 28 in the state's first runoff election. - [7 things to know ahead of the SD gubernatorial runoff](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-republican-gop-gubernatorial-race-larry-rhoden-toby-doeden.md) - Several factors are leading up to the historic election, including a year of campaigning, fights over property tax and negative advertisements. - [Fact brief: Was Denny Sanford South Dakota’s only billionaire?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-denny-sanford-south-dakota-only-billionaire-forbes.md) - The philanthropist and businessman gave over $4 billion away over his lifetime. Sanford died at 90 on July 18. - [Family's $150M lawsuit against US Marshals closed](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/zander-zephier-lawsuit-us-marshals.md) - Zander Zephier was killed in 2024 after law enforcement used pepper spray and entered the basement of his family's home on the Yankton Sioux Reservation. - [New housing forms foundation of Canistota's revitalization](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/canistota-sd-housing-revitalization-solutions.md) - Driven by entrepreneurial residents, housing development has helped transform the southeast South Dakota town into a rural bedroom community for Sioux Falls and Mitchell. - [South Dakota severe weather snapshot](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-severe-weather-season-2026-tornadoes-floods.md) - Recent record-breaking wind gusts were the latest in a string of recent disasters. - [Fact brief: Is it illegal for the South Dakota state government to run a deficit?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-south-dakota-fiscal-year-deficit.md) - South Dakota ended fiscal year 2026 with a $69 million surplus. The state budget was $7.5 billion. - [New project illustrates SD's love-hate relationship with solar power](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/canistota-sd-solar-power-project-renewable-energy.md) - While power companies and state officials show interest in the renewable power source, opposition from neighbors dims the shine on some ventures. - [Number of SD Republicans at an all-time high ahead of runoff](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/record-republican-registration-doeden-rhoden.md) - How historic and current voter registration numbers illustrate the unprecedented nature of the July 28 gubernatorial runoff. - [South Dakota T. rex fetches $50 million at auction](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/dinosaur-fossil-gus-sothebys-auction.md) - "Gus" was found in 2021 on a Harding County ranch. - [Fact brief: Will Christine Erickson be first female mayor of the 3 state’s biggest cities?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-christine-erickson-sioux-falls-sd-female-mayors.md) - As Sioux Falls prepares to swear in its first female mayor, have Rapid City and Aberdeen ever elected women to lead their cities? - [Rhoden's career, legislative record, campaign finances](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/larry-rhoden-profile-legislature-sd-governor-primary.md) - The rancher and welder from Union Center in western South Dakota has served 25 years in state government. - [Homeowners near sinkhole lose state Supreme Court case](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/homeowners-near-sinkhole-lose-supreme-court-case.md) - The ruling against a group of 160 homeowners affected by a large sinkhole that opened into an underground mine is the latest and perhaps last rejection they've faced in the six-year legal case. - [Fact brief: Does a ruling bar SD from adding differing health warnings to pesticide labels?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/supreme-court-health-warnings-pesticide-labels-monstanto-roundup.md) - A Missouri farmer sued Monsanto after developing cancer, arguing the product label should have included the pesticide’s alleged cancer risk. - [As travel costs rise, many families find summer adventures closer to home](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/travel-costs-sd-budget-family-summer-vacations.md) - "We did re-coin that term 'staycation' again this year." - [Fact brief: Did SD have country's lowest GDP growth in early 2026?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-south-dakota-gdp-growth-toby-doeden-larry-rhoden.md) - A well-sourced explanation that offers a clear "yes" or "no" answer to questions, confusions and unsupported claims circulating online. - [Water shortage hampers growth north of Sioux Falls but solution near](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/dell-rapids-water-projects-shared-resources-minnehaha-county.md) - After turning away numerous projects and potential employers in Dell Rapids, two eastern South Dakota water systems partner on a $170 million expansion to accommodate growth. - [Fact brief: Are lieutenant governor picks always announced after the nominee is selected?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-lieutenant-governor-running-mate.md) - A well-sourced explanation that offers a clear "yes" or "no" answer to questions, confusions and unsupported claims circulating online. - ['How do I keep going:?' Farmer mental health solutions](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/farmer-mental-health-solutions-south-dakota.md) - While mental health concerns exist among agricultural communities in South Dakota, barriers such as stigma and distance make it harder for farmers and ranchers to access care. Virtual care services may provide a promising solution to this. - [Fact brief: Was a SD storm's wind gust among the strongest in US history?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-sd-highmore-wind-storm-record-turbine-damage.md) - Photos posted by multiple media outlets show numerous trees uprooted, roofs ripped off buildings, grain silos folded in and downed wind turbines. - [Tribal elections include leadership shakeup in Flandreau](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-2026-election-tribal.md) - Which tribes in South Dakota are holding elections for leadership positions in 2026. - [Opposition arises to rebuild of US 85 through the Black Hills](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/us-highway-85-construction-black-hills-sd.md) - The DOT says the highway needs major safety improvements, but concerns over potential impacts on the environment and scenery are driving significant project opposition. - [Independence Day travel could reach record levels](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/july-4-independence-day-travel-south-dakota-mount-rushmore.md) - Interest especially high in Black Hills for Mount Rushmore fireworks and Rapid City events. - [Fact brief: Will lots be drawn if the Sioux Falls mayoral race ends in a tie?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-sioux-falls-mayor-race-election-christine-erickson-jamie-smith.md) - The Sioux Falls City Council is expected to certify the election results next week, at which point the losing candidate must file a written request for a recount. - [Business bankruptcies down but closures and farm reorgs up](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-business-bankruptcy-levels-below-pre-pandemic.md) - Business bankruptcy filings are above pre-pandemic levels nationwide, while business bankruptcy filings in South Dakota are below its own 2019 baseline. - ['They just won't listen:' Rural SD nears postal breaking point](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/usps-postal-delays-newspaper-delivery.md) - "It's common talk from the coffee shops to the business owners that the post office is still unreliable." - [Fact brief: Does SD require a high school diploma to homeschool a child?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-south-dakota-home-school-high-school-diploma-teacher.md) - South Dakota’s rate of homeschooled students increased 143% from 2015-16 to 2023-24, according to a database compiled by Johns Hopkins University, the highest increase of any state that reported data. - [Spearfish affordable housing project 1st to tap new fed funds](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/spearfish-sd-affordable-housing-engage-south-dakota.md) - The apartments, to be built by a Sioux Falls construction firm, could rent for as low as $600/month with utilities included in a Black Hills city where market rate rents can top $1,600 a month. - [Real estate, car dealerships, bitcoin and a TIF: A look into Toby Doeden's empire](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/real-estate-dealerships-bitcoin-toby-doeden-sd-governor-primary.md) - Much has been spoken of gubernatorial candidate Toby Doeden's wealth and business experience. Here's what public documents reveal about it. - [Fact brief: Can Democrats change parties and vote in the SD Republican primary?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-gubernatorial-primary-democrats-republican-register-vote.md) - South Dakota is one of about 10 states that are in a partially closed primary system. - [Fact brief: Has anyone from South Dakota played in MLS?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-south-dakota-major-league-soccer-players.md) - When it comes to professional athletes, South Dakota has produced no shortage of standouts in football, basketball and baseball, but the same can’t be said for soccer. - [14-year-old wins South Dakota state civics bee](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-state-civics-bee-2026-2.md) - Chloe Dabney from Brandon Middle School will advance to the National Civics Bee Championship in Washington this fall. - [Silent sirens: 2 South Dakota cities experience weather warning troubles](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/weather-warnings-sirens-aberdeen-viborg.md) - Aberdeen and Viborg are repairing outdoor weather warning systems as tornado season ramps up. - [Q&A: What to know about South Dakota's first gubernatorial runoff](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-governor-republican-primary-runoff-election.md) - If you didn't vote in the primary can you vote in the runoff? Those questions and more answered in Q&A on Rhoden-Doeden governor race. - [Fact brief: Is it possible to add a fifth face to Mount Rushmore?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-fifth-face-mount-rushmore-president-trump.md) - Trump has made several references to being on Mount Rushmore over the years, including sharing in May an AI-generated image of himself on the mountain next to Lincoln. - [How a hospital is helping solve a hometown housing shortage](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/housing-solutions-hot-springs-south-dakota-sd-hospital.md) - After years of enduring a stifling housing shortage, a rural hospital in Hot Springs is investing in a subdivision project that will benefit the entire community. - [Legislature election recap: Nelson holds off Hunhoff; Carley ousted](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/legislature-primary-election-recap.md) - A review of top election results of South Dakota state legislative Republican primary races. - [Fact brief: Did Larry Rhoden beat Toby Doeden in West River voting?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-sd-larry-rhoden-toby-doeden-primary-election.md) - Toby Doeden and Larry Rhoden will meet on July 28 for the right to challenge Democrat Dan Ahlers in November’s general election. - [Bountiful ballots: Local election added to June primary](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/2026-primary-election-local-races.md) - A law change added numerous local nonpartisan and political races to the statewide Republican and Democratic primaries. - [Jackley and Rounds win; Doeden, Rhoden to meet in runoff](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/2026-primary-election-top-races.md) - House and Senate winners cruise to victory in GOP primary but no governor candidate got needed 35%. - [Interns from SDSU and Northwestern join News Watch](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/2026-news-watch-interns.md) - Amina Aidarkhanova and Elena Tittel will work alongside News Watch journalists this summer. - [South Dakota primary and local election preview](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-2026-primary-election-preview.md) - From 2 seats in Congress and the governor to a slew of local races, South Dakotans go to the polls Tuesday. An explanation about what's at stake. - [Fact brief: Does eating out cost an average of $28 in South Dakota?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/fact-brief-south-dakota-average-dinner-cost-kevin-oleary.md) - Canadian businessman and television personality Kevin O’Leary sparked a national debate after saying young people overspend on meals instead of saving and investing. - [Larry Rhoden: The Incumbent](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/larry-rhoden-republican-primary-governor.md) - A profile of Gov. Larry Rhoden, 1 of 4 Republicans running for a four-year term as South Dakota governor. - [Documentary about SD boarding school premieres in New York City](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/native-american-indian-boarding-school-documentary-premiere-new-york.md) - "Nine Little Indians" premiere mixes Hollywood and South Dakota to tell nine sisters' story about abuse in Native boarding schools. "If you don't have hope, then you just stay where you are, and you don't move forward. So that hope brings you to a place where you need to be." - [Dusty Johnson: The Problem Solver](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/dusty-johnson-republican-primary-governor.md) - A profile of U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson, 1 of 4 Republicans running for South Dakota governor. - [Iconic movies shot in South Dakota](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/movies-filmed-south-dakota-dances-with-wolves-national-treasure.md) - From 'Dances With Wolves' to 'National Treasure,' these notable movies were filmed in South Dakota. - [South Dakota student makes it to 2nd round of national spelling bee](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/scripps-national-spelling-bee-2026.md) - Oscar Quezada is among 247 elementary and middle school students competing in Washington. - [Jon Hansen: The Comeback Kid?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/jon-hansen-republican-primary-governor.md) - A profile of state House Speaker Jon Hansen, 1 of 4 Republicans running for South Dakota governor. - [Toby Doeden: The 'Outsider'](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/toby-doeden-republican-governor-sd-primary-election.md) - A profile of Aberdeen businessman Toby Doeden, 1 of 4 Republicans running for South Dakota governor. "We needed a bold outsider to step up." - [Fact brief: Is SD's point-of-sale tax rate at an all-time high?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-sales-tax-governor-primary-fact-brief.md) - An ad from Dusty for Governor claims that Larry Rhoden's and Jon Hansen supported legislation that led to the "highest tax rate in South Dakota's history." - [South Dakota GOP primary preview: US Senate](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-gop-primary-election-us-senate-mike-rounds-justin-mcneal.md) - A preview of the upcoming GOP U.S. Senate primary election in South Dakota pitting current U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds against Justin McNeal of Rapid City. - [South Dakota GOP primary preview: US House](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-gop-primary-election-us-house-marty-jackley-james-bialota.md) - A preview of the upcoming South Dakota GOP U.S. House primary election pitting state Attorney General Marty Jackley against James Bialota. - [The wall and on the web: New ways to honor SD Vietnam vets](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/vietnam-veterans-memorial-day-in-memory-ceremony.md) - Posthumous honors are planned in June to memorialize the lives of several South Dakotans who served in Vietnam, including a biologist from Rapid City, a school superintendent from Rosholt and a corrections administrator from Piedmont. - [11 middle schoolers to compete in state civics bee](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/south-dakota-state-civics-bee-2026.md) - The winners chosen from four regional competitions will meet June 11 at Augustana University. - ['Nine Little Indians' tells story from South Dakota's Native boarding schools](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/nine-little-indians-documentary-south-dakota-native-boarding-schools.md) - How a film about nine sisters abused at a Native American boarding school illustrates the broad scope of South Dakota's history with the system: "It is huge, to have the courage and to get to a point where they want to share their story." - [Fact brief: Did Dusty Johnson lead the House in charter-flight expenses?](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/dusty-south-dakota-chartered-flights-governor-primary.md) - A claim from an ad attacking South Dakota gubernatorial candidate Dusty Johnson claims the House representative spent more on chartered flight than any of his cohorts. ## Optional - [RSS Feed](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/rss/) - [Sitemap](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/sitemap.xml) - [Full content of pages and posts](https://www.sdnewswatch.org/llms-full.txt)