PIERRE, S.D.(DRGNews)- Christmas is typically a time when family and friends come together to enjoy food and fellowship. But, South Dakota Highway Patrol Col. Rick Miller wants people to be informed before heading out. Miller says rescue missions take a lot of coordination and time and force more people to be out in less-than-ideal conditions.… Read more »

WASHINGTON, D.C.(WNAX)- Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskyy spoke to a joint session of Congress Tuesday night, making the case for continued US support of their war with Russia. South Dakota Congressman Dusty Johnson says it was an effective speech. Johnson says the western allies have to continue to support Ukraine. Johnson says despite some republican criticism,… Read more »

PIERRE, S.D.(Press Release) – On Thursday, Gov. Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2022-12, which declares an emergency for the winter storms that have been impacting South Dakota. Governor Noem also activated the South Dakota National Guard. “My administration has been assisting county and tribal governments in the local response to the ongoing winter storms across… Read more »

PIERRE, S.D.(Press Release) – On Thursday, Gov. Kristi Noem appointed Melissa Magstadt as Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Health. Melissa’s appointment will be effective on the next state work day, which will be Tuesday, December 27. “Melissa has proven her ability to provide innovative and cost-effective healthcare to the people of South Dakota,”… Read more »

PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- South Dakota businesses could see the fees they pay for unemployment coverage cut next year. The state Reemployment Assistance Advisory Council met this week. Member Nathan Sanderson of Pierre says their fund balance has grown considerably. Sanderson says future employment trends look promising. Sanderson says the savings will vary from business to business.… Read more »

WAGNER, S.D.(WNAX)- The South Dakota Transportation Commission heard from supporters of the four lane Highway 46 through Wagner. Gerrit Juffer of Wagner addressed the commission during the public comment part of their meeting. Juffer says public opinion supports the current four lane highway. Commission Chairman Bruce Cull of Yankton said they couldn’t take any action… Read more »

The South Dakota Department of Transportation is facing some unexpected bridge repairs. Department Secretary Joel Jundt told the Transportation Commission yesterday (Wednesday) that two I-90 bridges were hit and damaged. D.O.T. Operations Manager Craig Smith says it will take time to fix the bridges. Smith says the western bridge will be fixed next spring also.… Read more »

PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- The last time a major arctic outbreak plunged into the deep south in February of 2021, much of the natural gas distribution system froze up, causing some supply issues. South Dakota Public Utilities Commission Chairman Chris Nelson says many of those systems have made changes. Nelson says natural gas suppliers in South Dakota… Read more »

ABERDEEN,S.D.(Press Release)- Due to the inclement weather today, Thursday, December 22nd, the YAPAtorium will not be opening and the following programs are cancelled: All ARCC Dance Classes and Music Lessons. There will be no Rec Skate at the Odde Ice Center today.

PIERRE, S.D.(DRGNews)- Below zero temperatures and 20-30mph winds have combined to create treacherous conditions for those who have to go outside Thursday– with more of the same in store through Saturday. Dr. Michael Richardson with Avera Medical Group in Pierre says if you have to go out, be sure to cover up. Richardson says some… Read more »