Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels, since 1977) talks with Emily Harris, Digital Services Librarian, and Nicole Norton, Kindergarten-5th Grade Librarian, about all of the summer programs of the 13 Sioux Falls Libraries. From their website: Here, There, & Everywhere: More Lesser-Known Ways to Use Your Library Published on May 14, 2024 An adult helps a small toddler reach toward the snout of a black pig. By Shannon R. Recently, we wrote about some of the programs and services you might not have been aware of here at Siouxland Libraries.   Well, turns out we couldn’t fit all the wonderful things the library offers into one article—so here are a few more for you to take advantage of!   Library Programs and Events From passive programs to engaging, interactive events – there’s something for everyone at your local Siouxland Libraries branch.  Library program attendees sit at tables, working on art projects. Gaze upon local artwork as you stroll through the Downtown Branch, in search of your next favorite read. Or grab the kiddos and join us for one of our many toddler, preschool, or family storytime sessions.   Abstract, serpentine artwork by Nichole Cross hanging at the Downtown Library. And don’t forget about our summer reading program, kicking off soon! Keep up with your reading, log hours, and win prizes. Sign up now and avoid that summer slide! (And know that we mean the cognitive slide, not the slide at your local park. Enjoy that while you can!)   Outreach Events The fun doesn’t end inside the library – we’ve got events outside our doors as well!  Throughout the year, Siouxland Libraries attends various events in the community where you can browse books while enjoying a favorite outdoor activity or other local happening.   Library staff assist customers at a table set up just outside the Bookmobile. Some of these events include:  Parks and Recreation. Hot fun in the summertime! Join us for a variety of joint events Together with the Parks and Rec department, we host Kids Nite in the Park, Park & Play, and many others! StoryWalk. Combine the benefits of movement with literacy via a StoryWalk! Follow along as we guide you down a community walking path with pages from a picture book cut apart and posted page by page. Others. Siouxland Libraries often hosts a booth at annual and seasonal activities, such as large festivals, educational opportunities, and more. Watch for these and more events to be announced on our website. Community Collaboration Siouxland Libraries collaborates with local and state organizations to offer you awesome services and events!   Here are a few recent examples:  State Park passes. Together with The South Dakota State Library and Game Fish & Parks, the library will be offering state park passes available to check out for three days. Check out the program basics, and watch our news section for more to come! Washington Pavilion. Siouxland Libraries is part of the ongoing partnership with the Washington Pavilion "Read the Book, See the Show." This collaboration highlights the productions at the Washington Pavilion and Orpheum Theater that have a literary tie-in through displays and themed programming, and potentially even visits from actors at events. One Book Siouxland. Each year, we select a discussion-worthy book for a community read and arrange corresponding programs and events – often including a talk given by the author. Check out the most recent one here. To tune into events both inside and outside the library, check out the promotional flyers displayed at your local branch. You can also check out our featured programs and events and watch for news articles. --- Feeling some major FOMO? Get on our email list and be notified in advance of programs, events, and all things library-related that you’re interested in! Parent & Child Workshop Next date: Thursday, May 30, 2024 | 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Family_Place_logo.jpg Registration is not required and attendance at all five weeks is strongly encouraged. Siblings up to age 6 are welcome. May 30: Speech Development, Stacie Carlson - USD Scottish Rite Speech & Language Clinic June 6: Sun & Water Safety, Madison Bren - Flourish  June 13: Nutrition & Movement, Brittney Nathan and Katrina Anderson - Sanford Health June 20: Dental Hygiene, Jean Gross - Delta Dental June 27: Early Literacy, Siouxland Libraries When Thursday, May 30, 2024 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Thursday, June 06, 2024 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Thursday, June 13, 2024 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Thursday, June 20, 2024 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Thursday, June 27, 2024 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Tagged as: Birth to 5

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1877) talks with Canaries broadcaster, Tanner Hoops, about the summer season. from their website: Zimmerman Fans Ten as Birds Blank Lake Country Oconomowoc, WI – Ryan Zimmerman allowed one hit and struck out nine over six innings in his Canaries debut and the Sioux Falls pitching staff limited Lake Country to just two hits during a 7-0 triumph on Saturday. Jordan Barth opened the scoring with an RBI double in the first inning. The 1-0 lead held until the fifth when the Birds struck for four runs. Mike Hart doubled to score Barth before crossing home plate himself on an RBI single from Hunter Clanin. Spencer Sarringar followed with a two-run triple to give Sioux Falls a five-run advantage. The Birds added two more runs in the sixth on a fielders choice and a Hart sacrifice fly. Christian Johnson, Bret Barnett and Matt Dunaway combined for three scoreless innings of one-hit relief and struck out four. Barth and Clanin each finished with three hits as the Canaries improve to 2-0 on the season. Sioux Falls will look to sweep the three-game series when the two teams meet Sunday at 1:05pm.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks Doug Johnson, General Manager of Huset's Speedway  and Jackson Motoplex, talks about the 2024 season. from their website: https://www.husetsspeedway.com/ HUSET’S SPEEDWAY SCHEDULE SHOWCASING SEVERAL TOP-TIER EVENTS AND STELLAR WEEKLY COMPETITION THIS SEASON Inside Line Promotions – BRANDON, S.D. (April 23, 2024) – The countdown is down to the final month until racing gets underway at Huset’s Speedway for the 2024 season. The weekly program for the Cressman Sanitation 410 Outlaw Sprint Cars, the Wyffels Hybrids RaceSaver Sprint Car Series and the Nordstrom’s Automotive Late Model Street Stocks is likely to feature another battle throughout the spring and summer with the championship not being finalized until the final checkered flag is waved. Meanwhile, six separate nights on this year’s slate offer at least $20,000 to win with four being at least $40,000 to the feature winner and two topping six figures. The $250,000-to-win BillionAuto.com Huset’s High Bank Nationals featuring the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series runs June 19-22 with the finale paying a quarter of a million dollars. Two nights earlier, the inaugural Huset’s Hustle offers $100,000 to the winner. Preliminary nights during the event on June 19 and June 21 are each $20,000 to win. The final World of Outlaws visit to the high-banked oval occurs on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1 for the Huset’s Shootout with the final night awarding $40,000 to the driver who crosses the finish line first. A late model spectacle joins the five sprint car nights with the World of Outlaws as big-paying shows at Huset’s Speedway. The finale of the 14th annual Silver Dollar Nationals, which is July 17-20 with the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series taking part in the final three nights, pays the feature winner on July 20 a stout $53,000. The Mother’s Day Opener presented by T & K Transport, Inc. kicks off the year on May 12. Huset’s Speedway event tickets are on sale online at https://mpv.tickets.com/schedule/?agency=JKMV_PL_MPV&orgid=55369#/?view=list&includePackages=true.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Peter Rogers, Warning Coordination Meteorologist, about what we need to know to be safe this Spring and Summer. from their website: Be Weather-Ready: Check the forecast regularly to see if you're at risk for tornadoes. Listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed about tornado watches and warnings. Check the Weather-Ready Nation for tips. Sign Up for Notifications: Know how your community sends warnings. Some communities have outdoor sirens. Others depend on media and smart phones to alert residents of severe storms capable of producing tornadoes. Create a Communications Plan: Have a family plan that includes an emergency meeting place and related information. If you live in a mobile home or home without a basement, identify a nearby safe building you can get too quickly, such as a church or family member. Pick a safe room in your home, such as a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. Check more ideas for your family plan at: https://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan Practice Your Plan: Conduct a family severe thunderstorm drill regularly so everyone knows what to do if a tornado is approaching. Make sure all members of your family know to go there when tornado warnings are issued. Don't forget pets if time allows. Prepare Your Home: Consider having your safe room reinforced. You can find plans for reinforcing an interior room to provide better protection on the Federal Emergency Management Agency website. Help Your Neighbor: Encourage your loved ones to prepare for the possibility of tornadoes. Take CPR training so you can help if someone is hurt. Stay Weather-Ready: Continue to listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay updated about tornado watches and warnings. At Your House: If you are in a tornado warning, go to your basement, safe room, or an interior room away from windows. Don't forget pets if time allows. At Your Workplace or School: Follow your tornado drill and proceed to your tornado shelter location quickly and calmly. Stay away from windows and do not go to large open rooms such as cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums. Outside: Seek shelter inside a sturdy building immediately if a tornado is approaching. Sheds and storage facilities are not safe. Neither is a mobile home or tent.  If you have time, get to a safe building. In a vehicle: Being in a vehicle during a tornado is not safe. The best course of action is to drive to the closest shelter. If you are unable to make it to a safe shelter, either get down in your car and cover your head, or abandon your car and seek shelter in a low lying area such as a ditch or ravine.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with El Riad Shriner George Hahn about the annual major event this week at the Sioux Falls Arena. From their website: 81st Annual – 2024El Riad Shrine Circus  ALL Tickets on Sale NOW (See Times Below) “The Best Entertainment Value in Town”2024 Circus Chairman – Jeff Landborg2024 Assistant Circus Chairman – Rob Angerhofer Proceeds are for the benefit of El Riad Shrine. Payments are not deductible as charitable contributions. 2024 Shrine Circus Dates and Times Sioux Falls, SD – Sioux Falls Arena April 25, 2024 – Thursday – 12:30 pm, 7:00 pm April 26, 2024 – Friday – 12:30 pm, 7:00 pm April 27, 2024 – Saturday – 9:00 am, 2:00 pm, 7:00 pm April 28, 2024 – Sunday – 12:30 pm, 5:00 pm The 3 Shows in bold are all general admission (no reserved seats) Chamberlain, SD – National Guard Armory April 22, 2024 – Monday – 4:30 pm, 7:15 pm April 23, 2024 – Tuesday – 4:30 pm, 7:15 pm Mitchell, SD – Mitchell Corn Palace April 29, 2024 – Monday – 7:00 pm April 30, 2024 – Tuesday – 10:00 am, 4:30 pm, 7:15 pm May 1, 2024 – Wednesday – 4:30 pm, 7:15 pm Yankton, SD – Easton Yankton Archery Complex June 21, 2024 – Friday – 1:00 pm, 7:00 pm Winner, SD – Tripp County Fairgrounds June 22, 2024 – Saturday – 8:00 pm Sioux Falls Ticket and Coupon Information Ticket Sales and Will Call LocationsAt the El Riad Shrine Center Thursday, April 18th – 9am – 5pm Friday, April 19th, 9am – 5pm Monday, April 22nd, 9am – 5pm Tuesday, April 23rd, 9am – 5pm Wednesday, April 24th, 9am – 5pm At the Sioux Falls Arena (Will Call Booth) Starting at 9am on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday OR PICK THEM UP RIGHT BEFORE THE SHOW Ticket Prices Sioux Falls Adult General Admission $12, children 12 and under $3 (Free with a coupon). Elementary children can get free coupons at any Sioux Falls Ace Hardware, area Sunshine Food Stores or the El Riad Shrine Center. Reserved and General Admission tickets go on sale Thursday, April 18th at the El Riad Shrine Center. Sioux Falls Adult Reserved Seat tickets are $24, children 12 and under $15. A $3 cash refund per child reserved seat will be available at the Will Call booth before each Circus. Purchase Online Reserved Seat Tickets (WILL CALL ONLY) Coupon requests for Schools, Nursing Homes and Daycares Coupons for Home Schools will be available at the El Riad Shrine Center beginning April 18th).

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels talks with Downtown Lions member, Todd Smith, about the annual pancake story. from websites and facebook: What does buying a Sioux Falls Lions Pancake Days ticket do? -Pays for 200+ glasses in Sioux Falls to be donated a year-250 people to get eye exams at our local Falls Community Clinic -Provides donations to Sioux Falls schools for school supplies, winter clothing and holiday gifts-Provides Funding for the Union Gospel Mission, The Banquet, and Food to You -Sponsoring a Vision Support Group at the Inn on Westport-Sponsoring local volunteers on Mission trips to Mexico to donate fee eyeglasses to those in need-Sponsoring a Leader Dogs to those in needYour 8 dollars goes a long way. Thank you for helping to support your Sioux Falls Lions Clubs by attending Sioux Falls Lions Pancake Days#southdakotalionsclub#siouxfallslionspancakedays#wherethereisaneedthereisalion#WeServe#LionsClubsInternational For the next two weeks you can round up your purchase at any of the Sioux Falls Ace Hardware locations! It's such a simple way to make a big impact. By rounding up to the nearest dollar, you able to contribute a little extra to help your Sioux Falls Lions Clubs. Whether it's helping those in need or supporting important initiatives, every cent adds up to create positive change. So next time you're at the checkout, why not round up your purchase? Let's make a difference together, one cent at a time! #RoundingUp #EveryCentCounts #MakeADifference #siouxfallslions #WeServe #siouxfallslionspancakedays

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Pat Starr, Sioux Falls City Council, NE Dist., now a candidate for the Sioux Falls School Board. Biography (from Sioux Falls Council Website) Pat is a lifelong South Dakotan who was raised in Canton and Yankton. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a minor in Political Science from Mount Marty in Yankton. Following graduation, Pat and his wife Emily made Sioux Falls their home, where he is currently an independent contractor for printing sales and she is a registered nurse. Pat and Emily have two children and provide foster care for an additional daughter. The Starr family is on the go with the children ranging from elementary through college.. They enjoy the park system in Sioux Falls as well as The Old Court House Museum/Pettigrew Home and the Great Plains Zoo. The family is an active member of St. Therese Church in northeast Sioux Falls, and their children attend the Sioux Falls Catholic Schools. Pat also serves on the Board of Directors of Health Connection, Sioux Falls East Kiwanis, and Family Connect. He is also a member of the Oakview Neighborhood Association. In 2020, Pat was reelected to a second term representing the city’s Northeast District.  Committees Served On Fiscal City Services South Eastern Council of Governments (SECOG) Board Urbanized Development Commission (UDC) Museum Trustees

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Allison Renville and Jacklyn Franklin about Allison's run for City Council from her website VoteRenville.com: Originally from Sisseton, South Dakota Renville got further involved in the Sioux Falls scene in 2022 after spending 18 years focusing on media representation and her political activism. Motivated by the recent need for realistic and relatable community leadership, she feels confident in a run with such historical significance. She will be working hard by focusing on community outreach and campaign recruitment in these weeks to come.  Renville has dedicated her career to civic engagement and is an advocate for domestic violence victims, Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women, and the Justice Impacted. Allison also served as the Public Information Officer for the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate throughout the pandemic, all very crucial experience she will bring as an At-Large Council member for Sioux Falls. Platform Ideas Families Universal income Child care Internet Access  Increase focus on Mental health  Community resources Workers Job Training Redirect resources to focus on labor and employee education and opportunities. Encourage more labor focus grant ideas, working toward more workers rights advocacy. Transient & Houseless Folks  Redirect and encourage new grant ideas  Focus on mental health  Housing programs  Vouchers Designated areas  Repurpose properties Justice & Public Safety Reentry specific programs  Anti-death policy  Decriminalize possession by ingestion   Re Enforce policy and procedures  Address surveillance and consequence in hit and runs Pedestrians  Cyclists Stationary motorists Increase focus on neighborhood empowerment Community Health Securing realistic access to services Expansion of opportunity and outreach Transportation Autonomy and Healthcare navigation Broader Grant allocation Tuition expenses Internet access Human Relations Refocus on Historical Preservation  Community surveying and town halls More inclusive narratives and advocacy  Uphold South Dakota values as an adaptability effort rather than motivated by political affiliation and divisive ideology.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Josh Brewer, CEO and Evangerlist for Lifelight, about the next downtown Festival this time at Nelson Park. from their website: WHAT MAKES LIFELIGHT UNIQUE? • Every Lifelight event and the LifeLight Youth Center is FREE to the public and is done by faith, and yet is still able to maintain top-quality production and event.   • LifeLight reaches and attracts multi-generations who gather together in the name of Jesus.   • Lifelight involves many church denominations, working together in unity based on the truth of God’s Word and the essentials of the Gospel. We view ourselves as missionaries, and base our work from Acts 1:8, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” We exist to proclaim the Gospel through music and the message. While on a missions trip to Mexico in 1998, God grabbed a hold of Alan’s heart with the mission of “Taking the Church outside the walls.” What started out as a festival on a church lawn has now grown into an international ministry involving many who have a heart to reach people with the Gospel. In John 8:12 Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the Light of Life.” From this verse the LifeLight ministry was born. Our founding principle is to offer all events/Youth Center FREE of admission so that All may come, and All may freely hear the Gospel message of Jesus Christ! MISSION STATEMENT: VISIONSTATEMENT :  Giving everyone a chance to say yes to Jesus through focused driven evangelism. PURPOSE: To present Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior to all who attend. Through contemporary (culturally relevant) Christian media and short-term mission trips, we seek to reach people with the hope and love of Jesus Christ. Our goal is to proclaim the truth about who Jesus is and how we can know him in a real and personal way; He is the only way to eternal life.   PHILOSOPHY OF MINISTRY:  This is God’s ministry. He has raised it up and He will sustain and maintain it.  

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Jill Baker, Executive Director for the Community Action For Veterans, about their Stand Up for Women Veterans event. From their website: MISSION: Developing  communities of care for veteran and military families living in South Dakota. Contributions are used to facilitate connections within a statewide network of local partners. Together, we strive to create a better world for these families, and we thank all of you for helping us to achieve that goal.  Brief History Community Action for Veterans (the CAV) was originally established in 2015 as an offshoot initiative of the MILVETS (military and veterans) committee of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. We found initial success by coordinating special events focused on veteran and military family health and wellness. Many of our event partners continue to engage with us for strategic planning sessions, participate in committee meetings, and serve in an advisory capacity to improve outcomes for military-connected individuals  across South Dakota.

Public Affair4s Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Christy Menniing Vastenhout, Chief Development Officer of McCrossans, about their upcoming fundraising banquet. from their website: Join us for an extraordinary evening at the McCrossan Wildest Auction in the Midwest, where we bring you the thrill of live auctions, the magic of Nashville, and the promise of unforgettable moments—all in support of the boys at the Ranch! Date: April 4, 2024 Time: 5:30 PM Location: Sioux Falls Arena Musical Entertainment by Noah Hicks! Get ready to be blown away by the magnetic vibes of Noah Hicks, a rising star straight out of Nashville who's gracing our event! His voice? It's like reconnecting with an old friend over good conversation and a cold drink. Noah's #1 hit has amassed a staggering 10 million streams, and he's currently setting stages on fire while opening for none other than Scotty McCreary. But that's not all—Noah's supported big names like HARDY, Chase Rice, Chris Janson, Justin Moore, Parker McCollum, and Gary Allan. Join us for a night of unforgettable music, where Noah Hicks is sure to steal the show and your heart!  Event Highlights: A Night Out in Nashville:  Immerse yourself in the heart of country music with an up and coming Nashville singer, honky-tonk vibes, and line dancing. Live Auction Extravaganza: Bid on exclusive items and experiences that promise thrills and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. Silent  Auction: Explore a treasure trove of items up for grabs in our silent auction. Support the  Boys at the Ranch: Every bid and every ticket supports the boys at the Ranch, making a difference in their lives. Tickets: Secure your spot for only $100! Limited tickets available. Click here to get your tickets now. Tables of 8 or 10: For an enhanced experience, reserve a table for you and your friends! Tables of 8 or 10 can be reserved in advance. Contact the Development Office at 605-339-1203 to secure your table. Dress Code: Nashville-inspired attire encouraged! From cowboy boots to Southern chic, let your style shine. Spread the Word! Share your excitement using #McCrossanWildestAuction and #NightOutNashville. Let your friends know about this night of music, auctions, and support for a great cause. Food & Beverages: Indulge in a delicious meal and refreshing drinks throughout the night. Don't miss the chance to be part of the McCrossan Wildest Banquet Auction in the Midwest like never before. Mark your calendars, and let's make it a night to remember! Let’s Make a Difference Together! McCrossan Boys Ranch is a private nonprofit 501 (c) 3 charity organization in Sioux Falls dedicated to providing New Hope for a Better Life. We reach out to boys between the ages of 12 to 20 who have experienced conflict in their lives. At McCrossan Boys Ranch we are fortunate to have our boys  surrounded with dedicated and caring individuals that are living examples to the life the boys are striving for. Through values, goals, education and skills we prepare our boys to live a balanced life outside the Ranch. We also provide the boys with one-on-one counseling as well as specialized educational services so they can heal and grow intellectually. Through ranch activities such as horsemanship, 4-H, Boy Scouts and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, each boy is given the  opportunity to learn and expand their horizons. Sioux Falls Nonprofit Campus Information McCrossan Boys Ranch is located Northwest of Sioux Falls,  South Dakota. It is just off of Interstate 90 on Marion Road. The 90-acre campus provides a real Ranch atmosphere. Residents are housed in  cottages and there is an on-campus school, gymnasium, chapel, outdoor  recreation field, riding arena and livestock barn located on the campus.  Several staff are also housed on campus.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Huset;s Speedway General Manager Doug Johnson about the upcoming summer season starting on May 12th. from their website: husetsspeedway.com "HUSET’S SPEEDWAY ADDS $100,000-TO-WIN HUSET’S HIGH BANK HUSTLE TO $250,000-TO-WIN BILLIONAUTO.COM HUSET’S HIGH BANK NATIONALS Inside Line Promotions – BRANDON, S.D. (Nov. 8, 2023) – A pair of six-figure World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series events will highlight the four-day BillionAuto.com Huset’s High Bank Nationals, which runs June 19-22, 2024. In addition, the Outlaws will return to Huset’s Speedway Labor Day Weekend for a new two-day Huset’s Shootout with the finale paying $40,000 to win, marking six races for the World of Outlaws this year at the high-banked dirt oval. The marquee event in June kicks off with the inaugural two-day, $100,000-to-win Huset’s High Bank Hustle (June 19-20). That’s followed by the even bigger two-day $250,000-to-win, $5,000-to-start BillionAuto.com Huset’s High Bank Nationals (June 21-22), which equals the largest payout in World of Outlaws history – established last season with this event. Each of the opening night races (June 19 and June 21) will pay $20,000 to the winner. A complete format for each event during the BillionAuto.com Huset’s High Bank Nationals week will be released closer to the crown jewel event. Four-day ticket packages are currently on sale at http://www.HusetsSpeedway.com. The new two-day Huset’s Shootout on Labor Day Weekend will run Saturday, Aug. 31, and Sunday, Sept. 1, with the winner of the event finale receiving $40,000. The event is part of a tripleheader with action beginning on Friday, Aug. 30, when the Cressman Sanitation 410 Outlaw Sprint Cars kicks off the weekend with the Bull Haulers Brawl Season Championship presented by Folkens Bros. Trucking. Three-day ticket packages and camping for the Huset’s Shootout go on sale Thursday, Nov. 9, at http://www.HusetsSpeedway.com." HUSET’S SPEEDWAY FEATURING SEVERAL MARQUEE EVENTS AND STRONG WEEKLY PROGRAM IN 2024 SEASON Inside Line Promotions – BRANDON, S.D. (Nov. 20, 2023) – The 2024 racing season at Huset’s Speedway will showcase 22 nights of competition highlighted by four events that pay at least $40,000 to win. The World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series visits for six race nights. The four-day BillionAuto.com Huset’s High Bank Nationals runs June 19-22 with the special $100,000-to-win Huset’s Hustle on June 20. The event finale pays $250,000 – a World of Outlaws record – to the winner for the second straight year. Additionally, the World of Outlaws invades the track during Labor Day Weekend (Aug. 31 and Sept. 1) for the Huset’s Shootout capped by a $40,000-to-win main event. The famed 14th annual Silver Dollar Nationals is July 17-20 with the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series taking part in the final three nights, including the $53,000-to-win finale. Multiple other nights offer stout payouts, including $20,000 to the feature winner during the other two nights (June 19 and June 21) of the BillionAuto.com Huset’s High Bank Nationals. There is a $7,000-to-win Border Battle race for the Cressman Sanitation 410 Outlaw Sprint Cars on July 28. The 2024 season kicks off at Huset’s Speedway on May 12 with the traditional Mother’s Day Opener. The three featured divisions at Huset’s Speedway – the Cressman Sanitation 410 Outlaw Sprint Cars, the Wyffels Hybrids RaceSaver Sprint Car Series and the Nordstrom’s Automotive Late Model Street Stocks – will all be part of the opener and will each have at least 11 weekly shows. All three division championships were separated by less than two dozen points in 2023 when 38 different drivers earned at least one feature triumph during the 48 total A Mains at the track. Featured nights next season include Heiman Fire Equipment Night on June 2, Frankman Motor Company Night on June 9, the Ben Nothdurft Memorial during Bargain Barn Tire Center Night on July 17, Kwik Trip, Inc., Night on July 20 and the Folkens Brothers Trucking Bull Haulers Brawl Season Championship Night on Aug 30. Also of note, the first night of the Silver Dollar Nationals on July 17 will feature the Tri-State Late Models and the Dirt Crown Stock Cars. The Tri-State Late Models will return the following night during the opening round of the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series action. The final two nights of the event welcome the Malvern Bank Super Late Model Racing Series. Additionally, the season finale Huset’s Shootout featuring the World of Outlaws on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1 will have the Midwest Sprint Touring Series in action both nights. Visit the Huset’s Speedway website for the complete 2024 racing schedule.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Jared Wiklund, Director of Communications of Peasants Forever and Quail Forever, about the big Festival and Banquet this weekend. From their website: SEMINAR STAGES SEMINAR STAGE PUBLIC LANDS PAVILION The Public Lands Pavilion features an exciting lineup of dynamic speakers and an exhibitor area celebrating the country’s 800 million acres of prairies, forests, mountains, and public lands open to all Americans for hunting, hiking, and exploring. SEMINAR STAGE BIRD DOG STAGE One of the most popular and highly anticipated events of National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic, the Bird Dog Stage returns with a star-studded roster of trainers will be dispensing wisdom, advice, and stories. SEMINAR STAGEPATH TO THE UPLANDS STAGE The Path to the Uplands stage presented by ALPS OutdoorZ brings together a variety of well-respected influential story tellers from across the country to encourage individuals to find their own unique pathway into the outdoors. SEMINAR STAGE HABITAT STAGE The Habitat Stage is back again with a line-up that is sure to have something for everyone. Learn from experts on topics ranging from pheasants to quail to predators, to creating high quality habitat on small acreage to gardening for pollinators TECHNICAL & POSTER SESSIONS UPLAND BIRD SESSIONS This event packs years of experience and research into a handful of presentations and posters. You’ll have a chance to interact with today’s leading researchers on quail, pheasants, and other upland birds. Join us as we discuss all things upland bird SHOW FLOOR ATTRACTIONS FRIDAY BIRD DOG PARADE The annual Bird Dog Parade will kick-off the 2024 National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic on Friday, March 1st at 11am. This event is unique to National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic and is highly attended. There will be over 100 dogs representing over 40 different sporting dog breeds! SHOWFLOOR ATTRACTION YOUTH VILLAGE Youth Village helps connect kids to nature and the uplands through a variety of hands-on activities and learning stations. Activities this year will feature all-time favorites such as an indoor BB gun range, coloring stations, inflatable archery range, and more! SHOWFLOOR ATTRACTION HABITAT HELP DESK The Habitat Help Desk is an area of the show floor dedicated to helping landowners meet their habitat goals. Landowners can consult with trained wildlife biologists on how to improve their acres for wildlife habitat, as well as what local, state and federal conservations programs their properties qualify for TICKETED EVENTS THURSDAY CONCERT FOR CONSERVATION Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever, in partnership with Pepper Entertainment, are proud to announce the first-ever Concert for Conservation, featuring Trampled by Turtles w/Chester Floyd & Carl Hansen LIVE at Washington Pavilion on Thursday, February 29, in Sioux Falls. FRIDAY FRIDAY NIGHT UPLAND RALLY Join us Friday, March 1st to celebrate alongside passionate upland hunters and conservationists with great food, silent auction, raffles and more! Doors open at 5 pm in the Ramkota Event Center. Includes daily admission to show floor and an Annual Pheasants Forever Membership. SUNDAY WOMEN ON THE WING BRUNCH Spread your wings and join us Sunday morning for brunch and mimosas! Hear from inspiring leaders in the community, learn how to get involved, and cheers with our Women on the Wing community. This year proves to be bigger than ever as we continue this Sunday brunch celebration. FRIDAY - SUNDAY BIRD DOG FIELD CARE CLASS Our bird dogs deserve more than we can provide, even in the best of circumstances. Come to the Bird Dog Field Care Class and leave with the knowledge, confidence, and equipment to provide the care our K9 companions need to keep them healthy and in the field.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with U.S. Attorney Alison Ramsdell, Chief Federal Law Enforcement Officer for the District of South Dakota, and Gregg Peterman, First Assistant U.S. Attorney. from their website: The office of the United States Attorney for the District of South Dakota sees its roots in the United States Attorney for the District of Dakota Territory.  Including parts of what are today Nebraska, Montana, and Wyoming along with all of what is North Dakota and South Dakota today, Dakota Territory was largely Lakota land ceded to the United States by the Yankton Treaty in 1858.  In Sioux languages, Dakota means “allies.”  Dakota Territory officially became an organized territory on March 2, 1861, shortly before Abraham Lincoln took his office.  In 1863 the size of the territory was reduced to the area that is today North and South Dakota.  From 1861 to 1883, the territorial capital was Yankton, now South Dakota.  In 1883, the territorial capital was moved to Bismarck, now North Dakota, where it would remain until statehood.  Coincidentally, the first governor of the Dakota Territory was President Abraham Lincoln’s own personal physician, William A. Jayne.  The first territorial court of Dakota Territory was established in 1861 in Yankton.  The first United States Attorney for the District of South Dakota was William E. Gleason.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Theresa Stehly about the upcoming Counselor and School Board election deadlines, Property taxes, Riverline District, bees, floweres and more.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Allison Morrisette, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Coordinator about a serious situation in South Dakota from Attorney Generals press release: The attorney general’s office has put a new focus on crimes against Native American people, recently hiring two women to address problems Vargo described as interrelated: human trafficking and missing or murdered Indigenous people. The state’s Native American communities suffer from what advocates describe as crisis-level rates of people going missing or killed. Currently, 57% of people who are listed in the attorney general’s database of missing people are Native American, despite them representing less than 9% of the state’s total population. It’s a problem that is not restricted to South Dakota. Tribes, federal agencies and state governments nationwide are trying to tackle a decades-long crisis of missing and murdered Native Americans and Alaska Natives. Allison Morrisette, a member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe who previously worked in the Pennington County State’s Attorney’s office, will be South Dakota’s new Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Coordinator. Mary Beth Holzwarth, who previously directed an organization dedicated to child sexual assault prevention called Endeavor 52, will be the Human Trafficking Coordinator. Vargo said they would focus on pulling together resources to address crimes that often cross tribal and state boundaries. “No single entity or agency can solve the problems that we face,” he said at a news conference. “We all face some of the same problems and we have to face them together.” The hirings, however, come almost two years after the Legislature created the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Coordinator in the attorney general’s office. Rep. Peri Pourier, a Democratic state lawmaker who spearheaded the effort to create the position, said at the news conference that she was frustrated that it had taken so long to hire someone, though she credited Vargo with making it a priority once he was appointed to the office in June. “I am actually glad it took Attorney General Vargo to come to the table,” she said. “This is a problem that is going to take all of us.” Vargo has also proposed a commission, made up of advocates, state leaders and tribal officials, to advise the attorney general’s office. The hiring delay had come under the previous attorney general, Jason Ravnsborg. He had told the Legislature that he was supportive of the position, but he had not received the funding from the Legislature to do it. Native Hope, an organization affiliated with St. Joseph’s Indian School in Chamberlain, stepped in to fund the position with a grant for the first three years. Vargo said the funding will help the position get started and anticipated the state would fund the position after that. Morrisette, the new Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Coordinator said in a statement she was determined to change how Native Americans see the state’s law enforcement. “A lot of my relatives feel they are overlooked,” she said. “My job with the Attorney General’s Office is to ensure that is not true.”

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Phil Hamman (Author) of two books about the Gitchi Manitou murders 50 years ago. from Amazon books: Gitchie Girl: The Survivor's Inside Story of the Mass Murders that Shocked the Heartland Paperback – January 12, 2016 by Phil Hamman (Author), Sandy Hamman (Author) 4.5 out of 5 stars1,159 ratings 3.8 on Goodreads 1,694 ratings A terrified voice cried out in the night. "Who are you? What do you want? The sound of snapping twigs closed in on the five teenagers enjoying an evening around a glowing campfire at Gitchie Manitou State Park. The night of music and laughter had taken a dark turn. Evil loomed just beyond the tree line, and before the night was over, one of the Midwest’s most horrific mass murders had left its bloodstains spewed across the campsite. One managed to survive and would come to be known as the “Gitchie Girl.” Harrowing memories of the terrifying crime sent her spiraling out of control, and she grasped at every avenue to rebuild her life. Can one man, a rescue dog, and a glimmer of faith salvage a broken soul? This true story will touch your heart and leave you cheering that good can prevail over the depravity of mankind. Through extensive research, interviews, and personal insight, the authors bring a riveting look at the heinous crime that shook the Midwest in the early 1970s. Written from rare, inside interviews with the lone survivor, who broke nearly four decades of silence, this shocking yet moving story will not soon be forgotten.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Eric "Pinnaple" Weber of tthe Union Gospel Mission in Sioux Falls about the three freezing deaths in such a short time in downtown Sioux Falls.

Public Affairs Director Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks about the coming Tacos and Tequila Festival with Brian Jamros, President of the Sioux Falls Canaries, and Nick Noland, President of Social House Promotions in Kansas City. from the Tacos and Tequila website: https://tacosandtequilasiouxfalls.com/ Tacos and Tequila Festival is coming to Sioux Falls, SD at The Birdcage on August 17th, 2024!!  DON’T MISS hip hop legends: Lil Jon Ginuwine Chingy Ying Yang Twins Petey Pablo Twista Mike Jones We’re bringing the whole festival experience, including: 🍻 NEW Tequila Tasting Lounge 🍸 NEW Shot Bar  The areas BEST Taco Chefs  Hand Crafted Margaritas   Chihuahua Beauty Pageant   Queso & Salsa Competition  Lucha Libre Wrestling  AND MORE!

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Becky Rasmussen of Call to Freedom in Sioux Falls and in Pierre...Mary Beth Holzwarth, South Dakota Human Trafficking Coordinator about trafficking in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and the Midwest from the SD Attorney's website Mary Beth Holzwarth began her new job as South Dakota’ Human Trafficking Coordinator  on Nov. 28. For the past 13 years she has served as the CEO of Endeavor 52, a grassroots organization dedicated to child sexual assault prevention. “Joining the Attorney General’s Office in this new role gives me the opportunity to carry on my work combatting childhood sexual abuse and widen my focus to address other manifestations of exploitation including sexual and labor trafficking,” said Holzwarth. from Call to Freedom's website Sex and labor trafficking trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation occur at growing rates across the United States, including in the state of South Dakota. Several intersecting factors, including extreme poverty, geographic isolation, and homelessness, result in high levels of victimization across the state. Call to Freedom is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in South Dakota dedicated to bringing wholeness to all individuals impacted by sex and labor trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation. Founded in 2016, Call to Freedom hired its first full-time staff member in 2018 and has grown to 23 full-time staff united by their passion for ensuring survivors of trafficking and exploitation are believed and supported by their community. Staff members bring decades of experience combatting violence and providing community-based services and include previous South Dakota Department of Corrections staff, social workers, law enforcement, and addiction recovery specialists. The majority of our direct service staff had worked with Call to Freedom in their prior roles as community-based service providers and joined call to Freedom because of their passion for its holistic, person-centered approach. Our staff are uniquely positioned to serve trafficking survivors, given their experience working with people who have experienced trauma, responding to crisis situations, and identifying community resources available within the Sioux Falls community and across South Dakota.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks to Senator Jack Kolbeck about the upcoming legislative session.  Jack is on his seventh and last year. from his home website in 2022: Hello, Sioux Falls! My name is Jack Kolbeck, and I was born in McCook County South Dakota and worked on a family farm. I went to college at South Dakota State University where I earned my degree in business. After college I married my wife Muriel and we have been married for 40 years. We have 3 children and 8 grandchildren. I have been a businessman in Sioux Falls for 43 years and have been an active member in our community. I have been an avid sportsman my entire life, and I am a member of the SD Softball Hall of Fame as well as a 40 year member of the SF Downtown Lions Club My Vision To Serve SOUTH DAKOTA My passion to serve South Dakota comes from my family upbringing. My father had served in WWII, my grandfather served in WWI and several relatives fought in Vietnam & Korea. However, I was unable to serve in the military due to a medical issue at the time. But I've always had the desire to give back to my community and state. Now I am ready to make a difference for the great people of South Dakota by serving in our state government. Ready to stand up for what is right. Ready to do everything within my power to better the lives of South Dakotans. PUBLISHED Saturday, January 8, 2022 at 8:41 AM

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977), talks with Bruce Blumer from Tea, SD, about his nonprofit, Haiti Alive, and his book, "It's Not My Problem...Or Is It". from his website: HaitiAlive.org: "Piti piti zwazo fe niche li" Little by little the bird builds its nest Haiti Alive is a nonprofit organized to serve God and to bring hope, health, and happiness to the people on the island of LaGonave, Haiti. We convey the message of Christ through the areas of education, healthcare, and ministering to those in need, especially women, children, and the elderly. Grades 1-9 / Computer Lab / Language Lab / Daily Meal / Nurse on Staff / Bus to pick up the children / Security 24 hours a day Dr. William & Hello Doctor coordinate medical care through two clinics. There is a shortage of medical care across the island of LaGonave. The medicine and care provided through our clinics are truly life-giving and life-saving. Mobile clinics travel to small villages, to provide care for those who have no access to medical care or are unable to travel. You can provide medicine, salaries for staff, and transportation for mobile clinics through our healthcare programs. The goal of the Haiti Alive Village is to provide a hand-up for women by constructing simple homes, allowing women and their families to move away from difficult living settings, and providing women equity by owning a home and property. "Men anpil, chay pa lou" Many hands make the load lighter contact@HaitiAlive.org 605-770-5156 1035 N Spencer Ln Tea, SD 57064 EIN: 46-4179487

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Sioux Falls Police Officer Bridget Devlin, Sioux Falls Fire and Rescue Officer Steve Fessler and Ken Versteed, Executive Director of the Community Blood Bank.. from their website: Tuesday, December 26 Scheels (41st St. & Western Ave.) between 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.  *All who donate blood receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcake’s voucher, Texas Roadhouse Sidekick, and (2) Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket. Wednesday, December 27 Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe’ (41st St. & Grange Ave.) between 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.  *All who donate receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcake’s voucher, (2) Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket, and a free meal certificate, compliments of Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe’. Wednesday, December 27Texas Roadhouse (4307 W. Empire Pl.) between 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. & 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. "All who donate receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcake’s voucer, (2) Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket, and a Texas Roadhouse Sidekick certificate. Thursday, December 28 Hy-Vee (37th St. & Minnesota Ave.) between 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. *All who donate receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcake’s voucher, Texas Roadhouse Sidekick, and (2) Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket. Thursday, December 28 Hy-Vee (E. 10th St.) between 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. *All who donate receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcake’s voucher, and (2) Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket. Friday, December 29 Firehouse Subs (West 41st St.) between 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  *All who donate receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcake’s voucher, (2) Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket, and a free sub, compliments of Firehouse Subs of Sioux Falls. Friday, December 29 Firehouse Subs (East Arrowhead Pkwy.) between 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. *All who donate receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcake’s voucher, (2) Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket, and a free sub, compliments of Firehouse Subs of Sioux Falls. Tuesday, January 2 GreatLIFE (Willow Run) between 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. *All who donate receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcake’s voucher, Texas Roadhouse Sidekick, and (2) Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket. Tuesday, January 2 Midwest Communications (500 S. Phillips Ave.) between 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.  *All who donate receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcakes’s voucher, Texas Roadhouse Sidekick, and a Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket. Tuesday, January 2 Washington Pavilion (301 S. Main Ave.) between 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.  *All who donate receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcake’s voucher, Texas Roadhouse Sidekick, and (2) Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket. Thursday, January 4 JJ’s Wine & Spirits (3300 W. 57th St.) between 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.  *All who donate receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcake’s voucher, $10 JJ’s gift card, and (2) Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket. Friday, January 5 Sioux Falls Fire Rescue Headquarters (39th St. & Minnesota Ave.) between 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. *All who donate receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcake’s voucher, Texas Roadhouse Sidekick, and (2) Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket. Friday, January 5 Sioux Falls Police Department (320 W. 4th St.) between 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.  *All who donate receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcake’s voucher, Texas Roadhouse Sidekick, and (2) Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket. Saturday, January 6 Remedy Brewing Co. (401 E. 8th St.) between 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.  *All who donate receive an event t-shirt, Oh My Cupcake’s voucher, (2) Sioux Falls Skyforce game ticket, and a “pint coin” redeemable for your fav. brew compliments of Remedy Brewing Co. Sanford USD Medical Center Donor Room (1305 W. 18th St., Main Hospital Lobby) Open: Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Closed Christmas / New Years Day) Tuesday & Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Avera McKennan Hospital Donor Room (1301 S. Cliff Ave., Plaza 2, Fourth Floor) Open: Monday – Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Closed Christmas / New Years Day) Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.. Community Blood BankDawley Farm Donor Center (1035 S. Highline Pl) Open: Tuesday, January 2: 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 3: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with John McLaughlin, Ph.D. about Catholic discrimination in Sioux Falls and where he grew up in Alabama.  John is also a pioneer in special health and education. from his website: John McLaughlin, Ph.D. has been an education entrepreneur his entire working life.  At age 24 he started a school for students who benefited from a highly personalized education.  Now in its forty-third year, Benton Hall Academy in Nashville has served thousands of students many at challenging periods in life. In the mid-80’s John become an associate professor of educational administration at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota.  While a professor he researched the role of the private sector in school reform and started the influential Education Industry Report, tracking private investment in the education arena.  He left his tenured post in academia in 1997 to focus full-time on the business of education and behavioral health.  Monsignor Louis J. Delahoyde told me a few decades ago when I was interviewing him for the Saint Patrick's Day Parade in Sioux Falls in the early 80's... about the KKK attacking the Sioux Falls Cathedral in the early 20's.  A Catholic candidate for the President of the US led many to believe the Pope would take over our country.  Over 500 members of the KKK paraded through downtown Sioux Falls and up to the steps of the Sioux Falls Cathedral. They pounded on the front door and demanded to search the whole church for any arms that they thought were being hidden and stockpiled there. The KKK also murdered a Catholic Priest in Lead SD.

Pubblic Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Eric "Pineapple" Weber, Chief Executive Officer, and Administrative Assistant & Pastor Laura Thompson about the human needs of our community. From their website: We are excited for our Christmas Celebration that is on December 25th. We  have 3 different times for your family to pick from to join us on Christmas Day. #1 -Chapel Service – 11:00am – 11:30am Meal service – 11:30am – 12:00pm #2 -Chapel service – 1:00pm- 1:30pm Meal service – 1:30pm – 2:00pm #3 -Chapel service – 2:00pm-2:30pm Meal service – 2:30pm – 3:00pm UGM Chapel and meal servicemen’s center – 220 n weber avenue UGM toy and clothing distribution main office – 701 E 8th street Toy and clothing distribution follows after each meal service. Please contact our office at 605-334-6732 for questions. If you would like to volunteer,  please email Laura Thompson at lthompson@ugmsiouxfalls.com.  need help with life essentials and for those who are ready to build stable futures. Program Details Contact our Men’s Center to learn more about program opportunities and ways to serve your needs. Shelter beds are located in the clean and substance-free environment of our Men’s Center with overflow capabilities as needed during extreme weather conditions.  We offer three wholesome meals daily for men who spend the night at the Mission and attend chapel service. Basic medical care is provided by our on-site health clinic. Clean showers and personal-hygiene items are provided. Case management care is available to connect men with social services and resources for housing and employment. Contact us to learn more about program opportunities. We're Hiring  For all Men’s Center program questions and spiritual development opportunities, contact Todd Hill or Justin Heckel at 605-357-8271 or office@ugmsiouxfalls.com.Women’s Shelter We offer women, children and families the physical essentials and the emotional and spiritual guidance they need to achieve stability. Know someone who needs help? Our weekly support group was designed for any women who have experienced domestic violence or sexual assault of any kind. Contact us at 605-553-5388 to learn more. Contact our Women’s Center to learn more about program opportunities and ways to serve your needs. Shelter beds are located in the clean and substance-free environment of our Women’s Center with capabilities as needed during extreme weather conditions.  We offer three wholesome meals daily for men who spend the night at the Mission and attend chapel service. Basic medical care is provided weekly by our on-site health clinic. Clean showers and personal-hygiene items are provided. Case management care is available to connect women, children and families with social services and resources for housing and employment. Let's ConnectLove working with kids? Contact us to learn more about volunteer opportunities at our Women’s Center. Contact us to learn more about hiring opportunities at our Women’s Center. Contact us to learn more about volunteer opportunities at our Women’s Center. Moving into the Union Gospel Mission Women’s Center provided me with a safe place that I needed so desperately. I was also surrounded with mentors to help pay my debts, save money, stay mentally healthy and even have weekend visits with my son!  - Roechelle Williams Community Health Worker, Sioux Falls, SD INSPIRING STORIES OF HOPE A Safe Place To Call Home Roechelle Williams needed a safe place … away from the abuses she had endured … away from meth and alcohol … away from the triggers that tempted her back into addiction again and again.  If she could find a safe place, she could work on the long list of requirements to get her son back: get out of debt, stay sober, find and keep a steady job and move into a place of her own.  Thankfully, she knew about Union Gospel Mission.  Roechelle had stayed at the Mission twice, and she knew they would welcome her back. “I was sober, but I needed to get away from the triggers or I would start using again. And that meant losing my son for good.”  Moving into Union Gospel Mission would provide her with that safe place she needed so desperately, and with mentors to help her pay her debts, save money, stay mentally healthy and even have weekend visits with her son!  “I had a great job in construction,” she says. “I was pulling up my credit score, but I still had felonies and evictions against me. I needed to find a landlord willing to work with me. There were just a lot of barriers to knock down.”  In our Women’s Center, Roechelle met each challenge and finally achieved her greatest goal—getting her son back! But there was one more exciting change to come…coming back to UGM to work! Read more on this story in our Fall 2021 newsletter.  For all Women’s Center program questions and volunteer opportunities, contact us at 605-334-6732 or office@ugmsiouxfalls.com.Chapel Services

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Bethany Olson of the Children's Miracle Network for the Sanford Children's Hospital about the KELO-FM and KTWB-FM radiothon to help local kids this Thursday and Friday from 6 AM to 6 PM. Call during the broadcast to make a donation at 605-328-5750.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Erin Brown, Director of the South Dakota Veteran's Cemetery north of Sioux Falls. from their website: Veterans Cemetery The South Dakota State Veterans Cemetery is the first federally funded, state-owned and operated veteran’s cemetery in South Dakota. Its official dedication date was Memorial Day 2021. The first veterans were laid to rest on June 4, 2021. What is Provided * Gravesite or Columbarium Niche * Pre-placed Grave Liner (Standard Size) * Headstone/Niche Cover * Perpetual Care Cost Veteran $0 (all burial options) Spouse $948 (all burial options) *Fees for spouse/eligible dependents cannot be prepaid and are subject to change. Burial Arrangements The funeral director or the next of kin makes burial arrangements for an eligible Veteran, spouse or dependent at the time of need by contacting the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery. A spouse or dependent is buried based upon the eligibility of the Veteran. To establish the Veteran's eligibility, a copy of the Veteran's military discharge document or a DD214 must be provided. If these documents are not available, the cemetery must be provided with sufficient military information to allow the cemetery to access federal U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and/or military records to establish eligibility. The cemetery staff will set a tentative date for the committal service pending verification of service and character of discharge, and will notify the applicant when the committal service is scheduled. The proposed date and time will be approved only when the cemetery verifies eligibility and confirms the arrangements. Floral Policies Fresh cut flowers may be placed on graves at any time. Temporary containers and water are provided in locations around the main cemetery drive. Floral items will be removed from graves by cemetery personnel as soon as they become faded or unsightly. Artificial flowers may be placed on graves during the periods specified on the floral regulation signs located at the administration building. Plantings, statues, vigil lights, breakable objects of any nature and any other type of commemorative items are not permitted on the graves Committal Services The cemetery can do seven committal services per day, Monday - Friday, on a first-come first served basis, every hour from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (3 p.m. is cremation only). Committal services are limited to 20 minutes. All committal services should be brief and need to start on the hour at the scheduled time. Families who extend their services can greatly affect others who have reserved the following time. All committal services are held in the committal shelter. This ensures the family's safety and provides a fitting location for military honors and the ability of our staff to continue cemetery operations. The remains are removed from the committal shelter for burial following the family's departure and are never left unattended by cemetery staff. Clergy services and other arrangements are the responsibility of the family or family representative. These arrangements are normally coordinated through the chosen funeral director. Casket A pre-placed graveliner is provided by the cemetery for all casket burials. Casket gravesites are permanently marked with an upright headstone.Cremation (In-Ground) In-ground cremation gravesites provide a traditional burial option for cremated remains. In-ground cremation gravesites are marked with an upright granite headstone. The choice for the placement of cremated remains either in-ground or above-ground will need to be determined by the next-of-kin.Cremation (Columbarium) The columbarium provides an above-ground option for cremated remains. Columbarium niches are marked with a granite niche cover. The choice for the placement of cremated remains either in-ground or above-ground will need to be determined by the next-of-kin. The cemetery will serve as a hallowed resting place for all eligible veterans and family members.South Dakota Veterans Cemetery - Phasing Plan Click here to view the phasing plan for the cemetery. South Dakota Veterans Cemetery - Wreaths Acoss America Click here to learn more about the program and the South Dakota event.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) had the honor to interview Col. Glen D. Frazier, of the few survivors left of the Bataan Death March in WWII. (from the description about his book "Hell's Guest" on Amazon: “It was the 1930s in southern Alabama where cotton and cornfields were the backdrop of my childhood stage. I was growing up just like everyone else—wrapped in a simple and predictable way of life. Folks were the same, weather was the same, the calendar was the same. It was such an uncomplicated time that I could never have imagined that in just a few short years the entire world would be engulfed in war and that I would be caught in the middle of it. Where I lived in Lowndes County, events in Europe and Asia, as menacing as they were, seemed light-years away. I would soon discover that they were not so far away after all.”So begins this powerful memoir about a teenage boy who, during the summer of 1941 after his high school graduation, realizes he’s in love with a 16-year-old beautiful brunette he has known since first grade. In the heat of a grief-stricken and passion-filled moment, however, he makes an impulsive decision that will change his life in a dark and cruel way. Running away from home, he falsifies his age and hurriedly joins the Army, telling none of his family or friends. Within a month, he is halfway around the world, stationed in the Philippines, propelled into manhood, and all too soon engaged in horrific combat against the Japanese. After months of fierce fighting, Frazier’s heart is broken and his mind is numb as he watches while Old Glory is lowered and replaced by the Japanese flag of the Rising Sun. Overnight everything changes and his freedom, along with the freedom of thousands of others, instantly disappears. During the next seven nights and six days, and for 90 miles, he is subjected to the unspeakable and inhumane horrors of the infamous Bataan Death March. But that is just the beginning. Frazier becomes a shell of a man as he suffers three and a half years of brutal and unmerciful treatment as a prisoner of war in the Philippines and later in Japan. In Hell’s Guest, Colonel Frazier shares his dreadful experiences most poignantly, including the endless agony of torture, slave labor, solitary confinement, starvation, lack of adequate clothing against the elements of the weather, and all types of other abuse. At the same time, his hatred for the Japanese grows into an all-consuming force, and someday, if he survives, he is determined to get even. This captivating story doesn’t end with the surrender of the Japanese army. Frazier will eventually return home yet still remain a prisoner of his own bitterness and anger—enemies that will continue to inflict wounds that no doctors can heal.This compelling story cannot be put down until the last chapter is read and true freedom and peace are regained. “Colonel Frazier’s story of survival makes him a hero—his story of forgiveness makes him a legend!” (Timothy Frost, retired Staff Sergeant, United States Army) Glen passed away in 2018

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Major Marlys Anderson of the Sioux Falls Salvation Army about their "kettles" and the army of needs for Sioux Falls. from their website:https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/siouxfalls/  Need Knows No Season Approximately 13 percent of South Dakota residents fall below the federal poverty level, which is just over $24,000 for a family of four.  Short-term solutions like emergency rent and utilities assistance offer immediate help for individuals and families who are homeless, living in poverty or facing a financial crisis. Our Work Enablement Program and Pathway of Hope help participants transition back into the workforce after unemployment and work toward breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty.   How We Help Overcome Poverty The following programs are available through our Family Services at 900 N. Cliff Ave. Call 605-332-2331 for more information or to make an appointment. Office hours are Monday-Friday, 1-4 p.m.  Emergency Rent and Utilities Assistance A person shouldn’t have to choose between putting food on the table and paying the electric bill, but sadly, these are often the choices that people living in poverty are forced to make. We offer emergency rent and utilities assistance to help individuals and families make ends meet during times of financial crisis.  Appointments for rent and utilities assistance can be made Monday through Friday between 1 and 3:30 p.m. (last client appointment is 3:30 p.m.). For utility assistance please provide a disconnect notice, notice of action from Minnehaha County dated within 30 days of your appointment with us, a photo ID, social security cards for all members of the household and proof of income.  For rent assistance please provide an eviction notice, notice of action from Minnehaha County dated with 30 days of your appointment with us, a photo ID, social security cards for all members of the household and proof of income. Back-to-School Shopping for Families in Need Outfitting kids with clothes, shoes, backpacks and supplies before the start of the school year can put a financial strain on low-income families. That’s why each August we invite approximately 80 children from Lincoln and Minnehaha counties who are enrolled in our youth development programs or who have been assisted by our Family Services to start their school year off on the right foot by inviting them to our back-to-school shopping spree, sponsored by Hofer Trust. We are especially grateful to Eastside Kohl's and their staff for their patience and kindness and for allowing the families to visit the store early to get their back-to-school shopping done. Coats for All Winter in South Dakota can be harsh, which is why for the past 31 years we’ve partnered with KDLT News, Billion Automotive, Shipley’s Garment Spa and Results Radio to collect winter coats and accessories for people in need. Our goal is to keep men, women and children in Sioux Falls warm during South Dakota’s coldest months.   Thanksgiving and Christmas Baskets The holidays can be more stressful than joyful when the budget is tight. That’s why we partner with Avera McKennen Hospital & University Health Center and Hy-Vee to provide delicious Thanksgiving food baskets to families in need. At Christmas, our partnerships with First United Methodist Church, Empire Mall and 30 Angel Tree collection sites ensure that there will be food on the table and gifts under the tree. Prison Toy Lift Program We make Christmas possible by providing gifts to children whose fathers are incarcerated. Pathway of Hope The goal of Pathway of Hope is to guide families living in Lincoln and Minnehaha counties with children 18 years and younger through crisis and instability to a place of security in order to ultimately break the generational cycle of poverty. We offer strengths-based casework, providing services such as: financial counseling and planning goal setting with manageable action steps job training, referrals and employment assistance assistance with securing housing and childcare emotional and spiritual support  Pathway of Hope works with people where they are, offering practical guidance to help families overcome obstacles and achieve their big-picture goals, one step at a time. Every day, more than 106,000 people in South Dakota are at risk of going hungry. One out of 8 individuals is food insecure, meaning they might not know where their next meal will come from. We help people in need get access to nutritious food and find relief from hunger. Hunger Is More Than Numbers Hunger goes beyond the statistics. While the effects of hunger aren’t always obvious, the truth is, you likely have a neighbor, co-worker, acquaintance or relative who is struggling with hunger or food insecurity. We are here to help.  How We Help Cure Hunger We welcome anyone in need who walks through the doors, including the homeless, people in need of a little extra help during a difficult season, older adults and families struggling to feed their growing children. We provide these services to help cure hunger in Sioux Falls: Emergency Food Pantry  |  Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Family Services Center, 900 N. Cliff Ave. 605-332-2331 Our food pantry serves more than 1,100 low-income individuals and families from Lincoln and Minnehaha counties each year. Open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m., the pantry offers packaged and canned food, as well as fresh fruit, produce and meat. Individuals and families visiting the food pantry are asked to provide name, number of people in the household and their ages. Sallie's Table Weekend Feeding Program  |  Saturday and Sunday from 5-6 p.m. Worship and Service Center, 800 N. Cliff Ave. 605-332-2331 On Saturday and Sunday evenings when all other feeding programs in the area are closed, we serve a nutritious meal year-round to homeless and near-homeless people who do not have enough to eat on a regular basis. Between 300 and 400 homeless and low-income individuals and families in Sioux Falls enjoy food and fellowship at Sallie's Table each weekend. Senior Food Commodity Boxes Worship and Service Center, 800 N. Cliff Ave. 605-332-2331 Older adults are often among the most vulnerable to hunger and food insecurity, which is why we offer a monthly food program specifically for low-income seniors age 60 and older. We serve approximately 440 older adults every month.  Food boxes are available for pick-up the second Thursday of each month. Homebound seniors can also make arrangements to have their food box delivered. For more information or to apply to the Senior Food Commodity Box program, please call 605-332-2331. Sunday Morning Community Breakfast  |  Sunday from 9-10 a.m. Worship and Service Center, 800 N. Cliff Ave. 605-332-2331 On Sunday mornings, when all other feeding programs in the area are closed, we serve a hot, sit down breakfast to homeless and near-homeless populations.

Actual interview with Sgt. Shriver, Director of the Peace Corp, about the USS Battleship South Dakota.  Recorded in the early 1950's. from Wikipedia: USS South Dakota (BB-57) was the lead vessel of the four South Dakota-classfast battleships built for the United States Navy in the 1930s. The first American battleships designed after the Washington treaty system began to break down in the mid-1930s, the South Dakotas were able to take advantage of a treaty clause that allowed them to increase the main battery to 16-inch (406 mm) guns. However, congressional refusal to authorize larger battleships kept their displacement close to the Washington limit of 35,000 long tons (36,000 t). A requirement to be armored against the same caliber of guns as they carried, combined with the displacement restriction, resulted in cramped ships. Overcrowding was exacerbated by wartime modifications that considerably strengthened their anti-aircraft batteries and significantly increased their crews. South Dakota saw extensive action during World War II; immediately upon entering service in mid-1942, she was sent to the south Pacific to reinforce Allied forces waging the Guadalcanal campaign. The ship was damaged in an accidental grounding on an uncharted reef, but after completing repairs she returned to the front, taking part in the Battle of Santa Cruz in October and the Second Naval Battle of Guadalcanal in November. During the latter action, electrical failures hampered the ability of the ship to engage Japanese warships and she became the target of numerous Japanese vessels, sustaining over two-dozen hits that significantly damaged her superstructure but did not seriously threaten her buoyancy. South Dakota returned to the United States for repairs that lasted into 1943, after which she was briefly deployed to strengthen the British Home Fleet, tasked with protecting convoys to the Soviet Union. In mid-1943, the ship was transferred back to the Pacific, where she primarily operated with the fast carrier task force, contributing her heavy anti-aircraft armament to its defense. In this capacity, she took part in the Gilbert and Marshall Islands campaign in late 1943 and early 1944, the Mariana and Palau Islands campaign in mid-1944, and the Philippines campaign later that year. In 1945, she participated in the Battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa and bombarded Japan three times. Following the end of the war in August 1945, she took part in the initial occupation of the country before returning to the United States in September. She later moved to the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, where she was laid up in the Atlantic Reserve Fleet until 1962, when she was sold for scrap.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Steve Rosenthal, Administrator of the Facebook group "South Dakotans for Israel" about how the war in Israel affects those of the Jewish community in Sioux Falls.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with John Mogen (a 17 year member of the Sioux Falls Salvation Army and 45 year leader of Mogen's Heroes) and Doug Lund about their 45 year celebration of their band.  Bring a picture of your time with the band over the last 45  years and have fun at the DT Holiday Inn on Nov. 4th with doors open at 5:30 pm as a fundraiser for the Salvation Army. from the SD Music Association Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Mogen’s Heroes began “having fun making music” Halloween night of 1978. Founded by Waubay native John Mogen and today featuring Wagner native Dennis Gale on guitar and Redfield kid Bill Hoffman on drums, the trio loves to play any event that wants to have fun. Averaging approximately fifty gigs a year spanning four decades, the Mogen’s Heroes band van has seen a lot of territory. Forty years of consecutive playing might seem like a long time. Who says they’re stopping soon? Link to a video: Mogen's Heroes - Live in the Roofgarden! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEcqK5mUqpk

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Erik Galkowski, State Director of AARP South Dakota, about what 100,000 members in just South Dakota are doing. From their website aarp.org AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media. Advocating for people age 50-plus is at the heart of our mission. It's part of what we do every day from our national office in Washington, D.C., and from offices in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. On health security, AARP fights to protect Medicare, expand access to health care, lower prescription drug prices, support caregivers and protect nursing home residents. On financial stability, we fight to protect Social Security, establish savings plans for workers and stop scams and fraud. We also work to combat age discrimination in the workplace and speak up for the vulnerable and underrepresented on issues like affordable housing and food security. AARP is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization that doesn’t endorse candidates or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates. Its members come from across the political spectrum, and AARP has a long record of making sure that elected officials from both parties address the issues that matter to all Americans age 50-plus, including protecting Social Security and Medicare.   Our advocacy efforts have been nonpartisan since our founding in 1958. We have worked with Republican and Democratic administrations and members of Congress, governors and state legislators from both parties to achieve many victories for older Americans, including: Fighting for Health Security Lowering prescription drug prices: We helped to lower prescription drug prices by empowering Medicare to negotiate prices of certain drugs, to cap out-of-pocket costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries and to impose tax penalties for drugmakers that increase prices faster than inflation. Adding a prescription drug benefit to Medicare: In 2003, AARP worked with the George W. Bush administration to create Medicare Part D, which for the first time provided Medicare coverage for prescription drugs, and worked with Barack Obama’s administration to close gaps in Part D coverage. Providing Medicare coverage for telemedicine: During the COVID-19 pandemic AARP called on Medicare to expand coverage of telemedicine and for increased tax credits for health insurance premiums under the Affordable Care Act. Bringing low-cost hearing aids to market: We successfully pushed for the authorization of over-the-counter hearing aids, an affordable and convenient solution for millions of Americans experiencing moderate hearing loss. Protecting people with preexisting health conditions: AARP supported passage of the 2010 Affordable Care Act, which expanded health insurance access, prevented a costly “age tax” to purchase insurance, and required insurers to cover people with pre-existing conditions. Helping families care for loved ones: AARP supported the 1993 Family and Medical Leave Act, which provides unpaid leave to employees for care of a family member or to take care of their own health. Fighting for Financial Security Preventing Social Security privatization: AARP fought against turning Social Security into risky private accounts and to ensure Social Security remained an earned guaranteed benefit. Protecting Social Security COLAs: AARP fought against efforts by both parties to reduce cost-of-living adjustments for Social Security, which are especially critical when prices are rising. Expanding and protecting pensions: We advocated for expanded opportunities for workplace retirement savings, including for part-time workers, and to protect pension benefits that workers have earned. Protecting the medical expense deduction: AARP fought to protect the medical expense tax deduction to provide some measure of financial help for those with high health care expenses. Fighting to Protect Consumers Protecting consumers from telemarketers: AARP supported the rollout of the National Do Not Call Registry in 2003. Protecting older workers from discrimination: AARP worked diligently to ensure passage of the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 and the Older Workers Benefit Protection Act in 1990, which protect workers 40 and older from age discrimination in the workplace. AARP also has a long history of nonpartisan voter engagement. As a nonpartisan organization, we don’t support or contribute to political candidates, parties or campaigns — and never have.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels since 1977 talks with Diane Bauch, a 17 year CASA Volunteer and member of the Sioux Falls CASA staff, and Stacey Tieszen, Executive Director since June of 2018, about what CASA is and why it is very much needed to stand up for the rights of kids in court through no fault of their own. from their website SiouxFallsCASA.org Advocacy is Never Cancelled = We Need You! Every year, the Courts in our area handle hundreds of child abuse and neglect cases. Every one of them is much more than just a file…each is a child’s life. The children assigned to our Program need someone to stand up for them. Someone to stand up for their hopes, dreams, and futures. Someone with a super-heroic heart and a commitment to something bigger than themselves. Someone who is willing to try something unique and forever change a life. Could that someone be YOU? No prior experience necessary – we will train you in the ways of a CASA! Qualifications: CASA Volunteers must be at least 21 years of age. CASA Volunteers must have the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. CASA Volunteers must possess mature judgement, a high degree of responsibility, and sufficient time to advocate for the best interest of the child. CASA Volunteers must be able to relate to persons of different cultures, backgrounds, and socioeconomic statuses. Other Ways You Can Help: Host a CASA 101 for friends, family, or co-workers Connect CASA with your civic organization, social club, church community, or business Share today's social media post Planning for our future March 13, 2019 Over the past 24 years, the Sioux Falls Area CASA program has strived to serve every abused, neglected, and maltreated child referred to our office. As the number of children experiencing significant trauma and removal from their parents’ care has increased, so have the complexities of each case. This increase in referrals and complexity requires CASA to have more in-depth coverage to best help the children we serve. In the last 24 years, we have served 3,500 children, 1,811 families, and have been aided by 636 volunteers. We are honored to have been a part in serving these children and families. We look forward to implementing our strategic plan in order to continue the highest level of service possible. Since September 2018, the Sioux Falls Area CASA Program Board and Staff have worked collaboratively to develop a three-year strategic plan. During this process, we reached out to our valued CASA volunteers, staff, and stakeholders. Their feedback has helped to shape this plan. With this plan, we will continue to serve those referred to us while continuing to expand our abilities. At the core of this strategic plan is Sioux Falls Area CASA’s values of integrity, community, training for volunteers, fiscal responsibility and sustainability, and flexibility in assisting those in our service. Sioux Falls Area CASA welcomes you to join us on our journey of community partnerships and collaboration. We believe community is at the foundation of everything we do, and it is the critical piece of our plan moving forward. Because of this, your philanthropic and volunteer efforts are vital for the success and future of not only Sioux Falls Area CASA, but also the children and families we serve. It is with your help we can serve more of the community as we work to ensure our children are finding permanency and safety as quickly as possible. As we move forward with our three-year strategic plan and with your support, we are excited to build off the work we have done these last 24 years to become an even more effective and positive force within our larger community. Together in Change, Stacey Tieszen, Executive Director

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Jennie Palmer, Development and Marketing Manager of the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House in Sioux Falls. From their website: bdhn.org BECAUSE OF YOUR SUPPORT, WE WERE ABLE TO MAKE A BIG IMPACT IN 2022. Services Provided Guests Served Successful Transitions 33,300 Lunches Served 1,720 Unique Individuals 38 Families 19,000 Showers Provided 45 Families 45 Women 4,015 Loads of Laundry 112 Children 110 Men Our Mission TO FULFILL THE GOSPEL CALL TO LOVE OUR NEIGHBORS AS OURSELVES BY RECOGNIZING THE GOD-GIVEN DIGNITY OF EACH PERSON AND PROVIDING ESSENTIAL LIFE SERVICES TO THOSE IN NEED. The most recent statistics indicate that more than 1,000 men, women and children in South Dakota are without a home. The Bishop Dudley Hospitality House offers a warm, safe and secure place to start the road back to a more stable, long-term way of living.  Located in downtown Sioux Falls, our facility is within walking distance of several agencies that provide programs for the needy, supporting the proven plan to work in partnership with existing agencies to coordinate many services under a single roof.  OPEN DOORS TO SAFETY -Emergency nighttime shelter -Separate sleeping areas for men, women and families -Shelter from weather -Supervised outdoor recreation space OPEN DOORS TO WELLNESS -Lunch Mon.-Friday 11:30 a.m. / Weekends 3:30 p.m. -Mental Health counseling (provided by outside agency) -Addiction counseling (provided by outside agency) OPEN DOORS TO COMMUNITY -Enclosed outdoor space -Daytime shelter and other services -Computer and phone access -Collaboration with other agencies OPEN DOORS TO DIGNITY -Laundry -Restrooms -Showers

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Jerry Weihs of the 8th annual Siouxpercon at the Sioux Falls Convention Center and Arena this weekend. from their website: siouxpercon.com Siouxper Headliners Sean Gunn We are Out-of-This-Galaxy excited to announce that Sean Gunn is coming to SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond! It’s not every day you get to meet someone who plays a character in Marvel Universe – and even more rare to meet someone who plays two! Multi-faceted Sean Gunn not only portrays Kraglin in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” & other Marvel films, but also provides motion reference for Rocket Racoon! He will also reprise both roles in “Guardians of the Galaxy 3” coming in 2023! If his many, many Marvel movies aren’t enough, his other movie credits include “The Suicide Squad”, “I am Mortal”, “Agnes”, “The Belko Experiment”, “A Boy Called Po”, “Ordinary World”, and more, including new projects currently in development. Sean has also had many television roles. Fans of “Gilmore Girls” know him as the quirky Kirk Gleason in both the original series and the recent “Gilmore Girls Revival”. He has also appeared on “3rd Rock from the Sun”, “Glee”, “Yes, Dear”, “Bones”, “The Rookie”, and many more. Jim Cummings Winnie the Pooh is coming to SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond! …and Tigger too! A true legend, Jim Cummings has voiced almost 400 roles in his decades-long career – perhaps most notably as the official voice of Winnie the Poo since 1988 and Tigger since 1989. He’s also the official voice of the Tasmanian Devil, since 1991 and Disney’s Pete (aka Peg-leg Pete, Bad Pete, etc.) since 1991. If you’ve visited Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World, you’ve heard his voice as Hondo Ohnaka, which he also voices in Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars: Rebels. Among his multitude of voice credits, he’s also played Darkwing Duck, Cat on “Cat Dog”, Dr Robotnik in the “Sonic the Hedgehog” animated series and many, many, many more. Even before his amazing career as a voice actor, Jim had a fascinating life, designing and painting Mardi Gras floats in New Orleans, working as a riverboat deck hand and singing and playing with a regional rock band. Adrian Paul There Can Be Only One! …Sound familiar? Well, we’ve got him! The one and only Adrian Paul, star of the Highlander tv series, is coming to SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond! as a featured guest. In addition to playing Duncan MacLeod on Highlander for 6 years, Adrian has appeared in numerous movies and television shows, and even live theater & Broadway! He’s more than an onscreen star. He’s also a director, executive producer, screenwriter, accomplished martial artist and even a choreographer for fight scenes. He has also developed and personally heads The Sword Experience, a sword training event that he will be bringing to Sioux Falls to coincide with his appearance at SiouxperCon! This is an exclusive, separately-ticketed event. This is your chance to learn sword techniques from sword and martial arts expert, not to mention famous actor, Adrian Paul! In addition to your training session, you’ll also receive keepsakes from the event, including photos and video! Customize your experience by selecting the package of your choice. To ensure the best Experience for all participants, registration is limited, so don’t wait! Spectator tickets for the Sword Experience are also available.  Get all the details and register for your very own Sword Experience with Adrian Paul! Veronica Taylor She’s a classically trained actor who has performed in New York City and around the U.S., but you probably know her best as the voices of Ash and May on “Pokemon”! That’s right, Veronica Taylor will be joining us for SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond!, sponsored by CaveGamers Sioux Falls. In addition to “Pokemon” cartoons, you may also recognize her voice from her role as April in “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles”, Sheep in “World World”, Mixiebot in “Lunch Lab”, or Ramona from “Chuck Vanderchuck’s ‘something something’ Explosion!” and voice roles in “Cubix”, “Dinosaur King”, “Yu-Gi-Oh”, “Huntik”, “Tai Chi Chasers”, and more! Her current projects include voicing characters in “Sailor Moon”, “Mofy”, “Astroblast”, and “Welcome to the Wayne”. Some of her anime favorites include Amelia on “Slayers”, Yukino on “His and Hers Circumstances”, all seven Nanas on “Nana Seven of Seven”, and Narue on “World of Narue”, as well as many others. She also does numerous voices for animation, video games, audiobooks, commercials and documentaries. 2023 SiouxperCon Guests1313 Mockingbird Lane Attention Toy Lovers! 1313 Mockingbird Lane Toys and Collectibles from Lawrence, KS will be joining us at SiouxperCon this year! (and psst! the owner is something of a local Sioux Falls legend, and a rock star, so you’ll want to to meet TERRY TAYLOR too!) You may have seen them on the Amazon Prime TV series “A Toy Store Near You”  (Season #1, Episode #2 – or check it out for free on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/A5MTcg8mEFE) THEY SELL AND BUY NEW AND USED TOYS!–1980s to present day! Horror, Sci-Fi, Star Wars, Masters of the Universe, Funko Pops, Supernatural, Marvel, DC, GIJOE, Harry Potter, Nightmare Before Christmas, Hello Kitty, Plushes, Anime, Spawn, TMNT, Power Rangers, Godzilla, Transformers and so much more! You’re sure to find some treasures! Check them out ahead of time on: Facebook.com/1313mockingbirdks Instagram.com/1313mockingbirdks TikTok: mockingbirdlane www.1313mockingbirdtoys.com 621st Detention Squadron The 621st Detention Squad-Central Garrison of the 501st Legion have been a part of our convention ever since the first SiouxperCon, and we are so excited to have them return to SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana.  The 621st Detention Squad is dedicated to having fun while bringing Star Wars costuming through charity and community service for the state of South Dakota and is part of the Central Garrison which, combined with 75 other Garrisons from around the world, make up the 501st Legion, an all-volunteer international Star Wars Costuming Club.  The Legion was started in 1997 by Albin Johnson from South Carolina, and since then has grown to over 14,412 active members with a total of 31,646 Legion-approved costumes covering 6 different continents. While the 501st was initially founded to unite costumers with a penchant for Star Wars villainy, one of the real-world missions is to bring good to local communities through volunteer charity work. The 501st is always looking for opportunities to brighten the lives of the less fortunate and to bring awareness to positive causes on both a local and global scale. One such example started in September 2016, when the 501st Legion announced their commitment to a first-of-its-kind international endowment in a unique partnership with Make-A-Wish. The 501st Legion Make-A-Wish Endowment Fund will allow Make-A-Wish America and Make-A-Wish International to grant more Star Wars-related wishes to children diagnosed with life-threatening medical conditions. The endowment fund will allow Make-A-Wish to grant wishes, alternating between the United States and international locations every other year – a first for an endowment of this kind.  The Endowment relies on contributions from its members, as well as the public. The Endowment fund will grant wishes from the interest accrued; as the fund continues to grow, so will the number of wishes granted by the endowment. David Barclay Yoda is coming to SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond! Yes, you read that right! Yoda will be here along with expert puppeteer David Barclay, one of the most sought after puppeteers in both Hollywood and England. David assisted Frank Oz with Yoda during filming of “The Empire Strikes Back” and was also chief puppeteer for Jabba the Hutt in “Return of the Jedi”. His film credits include work in other amazingly popular movies such as “Labyrinth”, “The Dark Crystal”, “Little Shop of Horrors”, “Muppet Christmas Carol”, and “Where the Wild Things Are”, among others. David will be bringing with him the ONLY EXACT replica of the “Empire Strikes Back” Yoda puppet taken from the original mold. He and Yoda will be available for professional photo ops, and David will greet guests and sign autographs throughout the convention. Don’t miss your chance to meet David Barclay and ask him what it’s like not only to be in control of the most disgusting creature in the “Star Wars” universe (Jabba the Hutt) but to be inside him as well! And get your photo with Yoda! How often are you going to get an opportunity like this? John Bivens John Bivens’ work has appeared in the Eisner and Harvey Award winning “Comic Book Tattoo”, the Harvey Award winning “Popgun volume 4”, and the Harvey nominated “Reading with Pictures”. He has also received nominations for an Eagle Award and a Ghastly Award. He has worked for IMAGE Comics, Heavy Metal Magazine, Vault Comics, Valiant Comics, IDW Publishing, and others. John’s work spans the genres of crime, horror, science fiction, fantasy, romance, and education. His education includes the undergraduate illustration program at Northern Illinois University and the Graduate program at Minneapolis College of Art and Design. He has taught as an adjunct professor at Northern Illinois University, Dakota County Technical College, and participated in multiple visiting workshops and panels. Hailey “Ren” Brown Hailey “Ren” Brown is an award-winning, internationally-published artist with a love for color, motion and storytelling. She has worked as a sequential artist, colorist and illustrator for a wide range of clients, including Brink Literacy, “F(r)iction Magazine”, New York Times bestselling authors, Newsarama, Dynamite Entertainment, and a variety of independent projects. Frankly Built Cosplay We’re excited to bring you Frankly Built Cosplay at SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana! Come and see what hundreds of thousands of YouTube subscribers and Instagram followers and 2 MILLION TikTok followers are fascinated by! Frankly Built doesn’t just create amazing cosplay designs, he also loves teaching people how to build their own, too! If you’re interested in 3D printing and cosplay – you’ll definitely want to meet this guy! Find Frankly Built on the exhibit floor from September 29th to October 1st at the Sioux Falls Convention Center and judging the cosplay competition. His work is amazing & he’s ready to tell you all about it! Zander Cannon We’re thrilled to announce Zander Cannon will be returning to SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond! Zander is an award-winning cartoonist who has been writing and drawing comics since 1993–most notably Kaijumax, Heck, Top Ten, Smax, and The Replacement God. In addition to his comic work, he has also partnered to develop several nonfiction graphic novels, a digital comic magazine and more. He lives in Minneapolis with his cool wife and awesome son. Keith Champagne Please welcome Keith Champagne to SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana! Keith is a writer/inker/artist best known for his three decades of work in the comic book industry, for clients such as DC Comics (Green Lantern, JSA), Marvel Comics (X-Men, Spider-Man), Dark Horse Comics (Stranger Things, Apex Legends) and hundreds of other projects for almost every publisher in the comic book field. His creator-owned work includes The Switch: Electricia, Daybreak!, Microscopic and more. Keith is also an editor (Heavy Metal/Virus), Kickstarter consultant, and the publisher of New Pain Productions, the creator-owned publishing company formed with frequent collaborator Tom Nguyen. If you’re not tired of reading about him yet, he also letters comic books under the pseudonym “Alfie Betts.” Hector Curriel We’re excited to welcome Hector Curriel back to SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana! Hector Curriel is a contemporary visual artist who lives and works in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. A native of Lima, Peru, his variety of art production includes; fine art, book illustration, and cartooning. His distinctive personal style emanates in his compositions of different stages of the human spirit. As an artist, he defines himself as a storyteller. Curriel’s artwork has been shown in exhibitions at The California State Library, Augustana University, Minnesota West Community College, and more. He has illustrated several books for individuals and house publishings and one of the latest was” Something About Christmas” published by Children’s Home Society in 2020. Bob ElmoreWe are happy to also announce “Leatherface” himself Bob Elmore will also be in attendance for SiouxperCon signing autographs and taking photos! Bob was the Leatherface stunt performer alongside Caroline Williams in Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2. That’s not all! We will also have a special presentation of Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 as part of the SiouxperCon Film Festival Friday, September 29th at 6PM!Hannah Eva Get ready to meet cosplay guest Hannah Eva at SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond! Hannah Eva is a cosplayer who considers herself a child at heart–who never grew out of playing dress up. Hannah attended her first convention in 2014 and immediately fell in love with the cosplay culture. She treats every costume that she makes like a work of art and loves to put creative twists on classic looks. The winner of multiple costume competitions, she now uses her experiences to focus on judging cosplay competitions. When she is not attending conventions, she helps promote charities and local businesses with her cosplays. Hannah has always had a dream of making a career out of dressing up in costumes and with each stitch, button, and sequin she is proud to be making her dream a reality. First Lego League We are so excited that FIRST Lego League has agreed to be a part of SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana! FIRST is the world’s leading youth-serving nonprofit advancing STEM education. For 30 years students from all walks of life have developed self-confidence in STEM and valuable, real-world skills through FIRST that open pathways to a better future.  Through a progression of team-based robotics challenges and backed by a global network of mentors, coaches, volunteers, alumni, and sponsors, FIRST ® helps young people discover a passion for STEM and develop skills they’ll need to succeed in today’s competitive workforce.   First will be located in Kidzone in a large interactive booth with plenty to do for everyone. Information on how to form a team and how to volunteer will also be available at the booth. Tony Fleecs We are excited to announce Tony Fleecs will be back with us again for SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana!  Tony is a critically acclaimed comic book creator, his work having sold hundreds of thousands of copies in the United States and having been translated and reprinted all over the world. Tony’s creator-owned books include Stray Dogs, In My Lifetime, Jeff Steinberg: Champion of Earth, and Time Shopper. You’ve seen Tony’s art on some of your favorite titles like Star Wars, Avengers, Batman, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Rick & Morty, Transformers and My Little Pony. Eric Gapstur We are more than just “sort of” excited to announce that Eric Gapstur, author of “Sort of Super” will be joining us at SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota and Montana! And we’re equally excited to announce that every child, 10 and under, who attends SiouxperCon on Dakota News Now Siouxper Family Fun Day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, October 1, will receive a copy of Eric’s book, “Sort of Super”, thanks to a grant from the South Dakota Humanities Council, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Over 1,000 copies of the book will be distributed to youth during this event! An author and illustrator, Gapstur does work for DC and Image Comics. “Sort of Super” is his debut middle-grade graphic novel, soon to be followed by “Sort of Super: The Magma Cup”. Sort of Super is about eleven-year-old Wyatt who suddenly has superpowers, but is not very good at using his powers yet. Gapstur will be available all three days of the convention to interact with fans and sign books in the Bricks & Minifigs Kidzone. On Sunday, he will also do a panel presentation at noon to talk about his book and his career. Celtic Honey A long time con attendee starting way back with Gen Con in 1997, Honey has always had a passion for all things cosplay, gaming, anime, sci-fi, and more! Joining us from the Quad Cities (Iowa/Illinois border), Honey loves hosting panels for cosplay, burlesque/nerdlesque, body positivity, consent education, martial arts and enjoys anything to do with art and inspiring creativity. We can’t wait! As some of you already know, Honey headlined the Nerdlesque show for SiouxperCon 2022! What you don’t know yet is that Honey will also be a part of the VeauxDevil Cabaret Burlesque Show again this year under drag persona, Stinger Wright-Sin! Megan Hollingshead We’re so excited to announce that the Original Nurse Joy from Pokémon – Megan Hollingshead – will be our guest at SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond! In addition to being the “OG” Nurse Joy, Megan is also well-known in the voiceover world as Yu-Gi-Oh!’s original Mai Valentine! She has voiced hundreds of characters in animation and games including Bleach (Rangiku and Nemu), Naruto (Shizune and Ton Ton), Valkyrie Profile (Lenneth), Ergo Proxy (Rey-L Meyer), Code Geass (Villetta Nu), as well as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Dr. Abigail Finn), Sonic the Hedgehog (Scarlet Garcia) and many, many more Pokémon characters! The list really does go on and on and on! If you’re starstruck and at a loss for words when you meet her at SiouxperCon: To Sioux Falls and Beyond!, ask her about her adventures braving volcanic hot springs with George Takei (Captain Sulu from Star Trek) or how she feels about the movie Raiders of the Lost Ark. Mikaela Hoover Adding to our Galaxy of Stars – we are pleased to announce Mikaela Hoover is coming to SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana! Mikaela Hoover helped James Gunn and company break global audiences’ hearts with her touching portrayal of the lovable, tortured Floor the Bunny – doomed friend of Rocket Raccoon – in the global megahit “Guardians of the Galaxy 3”. She also appeared as Nova Prime’s assistant in the inaugural installment of the “Guardians” franchise. Hoover has worked with writer/director Gunn on several projects including “The Suicide Squad”, “The Belko Experiment”, “Super” and “PG Porn”. Hoover is known for her work as Madison in the WB’s “Sorority Forever”, Netflix film “Love Hard” and a recurring role on the ABC show “Happy Endings”. She has also guest starred on many extremely popular sitcoms including “How I Met Your Mother”, “Two and a Half Men”, “Saint George”, “The League”, and “Anger Management”. Her film work further includes “Guest House” and “Holidate”. Mikaela will be appearing with her Guardians of the Galaxy 3 cast mate, Sean Gunn. Look for them on the exhibitor floor all three days of the convention and come see their main stage panel on Saturday, September 30, at the Sioux Falls Convention Center!  Dylan Jacobson Let’s give a big SiouxperCon welcome to Dylan Jacobson, sponsored by Game Chest! Dylan is a local artist known for his comics and illustrations.You may be familiar with his original comic series “Champions”, or his coloring book, “Together With Goblins”. He has worked in comics, writing, character art and graphics and he has been working with schools and communities teaching comic art, character art, storytelling and roleplaying since 2016. Knightmage Can’t get enough Cosplay? Neither can we! We’re thrilled to welcome back international cosplayer/entertainer/philanthropist Michael “Knightmage” Wilson as a cosplay guest for SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond, sponsored by Sioux Falls Pride!  A current, decorated 24-year Deputy Sheriff for the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office in Ohio, Michael has been cosplaying since 2012. Having created over 350 costumes and won numerous awards and accolades, Michael is noted as one of the most influential and diverse cosplayers in the world. And yes! We’re bringing him to Sioux Falls to meet fans right here! Genuinely loving to entertain, make a positive impact and bring smiles, Michael most often uses his costuming by participating in many charitable events, benefits, parades, birthdays and hospital visits to children. This has led him to becoming a member of esteemed costuming groups all over the United States such as “The League of Heroes, The Heroes Alliance-Ohio Branch, East Coast Avengers, Costumers with a Cause and Superheroes to Kids in Ohio and Heroic Inner Kids”. Michael often works closely with charity organizations as a sponsor and has partnered with over 200 various organizations around the world to fundraise and bring awareness to these organizations. Michael has received numerous awards for his charitable deeds including the “Outstanding Service Award” from Credit Where Credit Is Due, the CosBravo Award, Electronic Sports Industry Most Influential Male Cosplayer Award and most notably the “Presidential Volunteers Award” from President Barack Obama and the White House. In addition to philanthropy, Michael also has a love for acting and stunt work, having worked on several Hollywood comic book movie productions. He was even an alternate for the 2006 reality show “Who Wants To Be A Superhero” hosted by Stan Lee. You may have seen him featured in the popular YouTube series “MAN AT ARMS: Reforged”. In addition to his own cosplay looks, Michael has also created various costumes for World Wrestling Entertainment superstars.Heather & Lace They put the “cleave” in Cleveland, it’s Heather & Lace! Heather performs burlesque using their unique blend of costuming, dance, and storytelling to create their acts. Recently, they’ve been seen all over the interwebs, including winning the “Your Royal Tease Burlesque Competition”, BUT they have also been seen at the Land of the Sky Festival, NOLA Nerdlesque Festival, Oklahoma City Burlesque Festival where they won “Most Original”, and the Midwest Burlesque Festival where they won the “Tornado” and “Master of Tassels” awards. They are also a co-producer with Shrimply the Best! Burlesque, The Fandom Fantasies, Love & Lace Presents, and with The Midwest Nerdlesque Festival and Ohio Burlesque Festival. They’re known as the Dollar Store Diva, get ready for Heather & Lace! Catch Heather & Lace at the 3rd Annual SiouxperCon After Dark drag and burlesque show by VeauxDevil Cabaret on Saturday, September 30th! Ant LuciaIf you missed him last year, you get another chance! If you got to see him last year, you’ll want to stop by and see what is new this year! Let’s hear a big SiouxperCon “Welcome Back!” for Ant Lucia! When Ant Lucia unveiled his designs for such characters as Wonder Woman, Batwoman, Harley Quinn, and the rest in the series, popularity of the DC Bombshells exploded! His designs inspired the launch of the DC Bombshell comic, as well as one of the most popular lines of DC collectible statues, lithographs, action figures, Funko POP figures and many more licensed products – not to mention scores of cosplayers! His cover work has been used on many DC titles including Action Comics, Aquaman, Batman, Catwoman, Green Arrow, Harley Quinn, Justice League Dark, Justice League United, Superman, The Flash, Wonder Woman, Batgirl, Detective Comics, Green Lantern, Green Lantern Corps, Earth 2, Teen Titans. Come see Ant’s latest work as well as his classics at SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana. September 29 – October 1 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center. Get your tickets now at SiouxperCon.com!Tré Da Marc Hailing from Minneapolis, MN, Tré Da Marc is an international boylesque sensation that cannot be duplicated. Known for his trademark combination of sass and ass, he is ready to leave his stamp (and a fair amount of glitter and sweat) on any stage he meets. He is a cast member of Black Hearts Burlesque and Sovereign Tease Productions locally in the Twin Cities. This multi-award-winning performer began his burlesque career in August 2013, at the Nudie Nubie Amateur Reveal Show where he won that month’s Nubie competition. Since then, he has performed in more than 40 festivals around the world, being featured internationally at the Vienna Boylesque Festival and the 2016 Amsterdam Burlesque Awards. They competed in the 2018 Mr. Exotic World/Best Boylesque Category at the Burlesque Hall Of Fame in Las Vegas. He was crowned King of Burlesque at the Noire Pageant in 2020 and was voted one of the Top 50 most influential burlesque industry figures of 2020-2022, by thousands of burlesque peers and fans worldwide. Catch Tré Da Marc, The Chocolate Drop That Won’t Stop, at the 3rd Annual SiouxperCon After Dark drag and burlesque show by VeauxDevil Cabaret on Saturday, September 30th! Maria Wolf LopezBack by popular demand from last year and sponsored by Rainbow Comics, Cards and Collectibles – Maria Wolf Lopez – will again be our guest at SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond! Maria is a Chicago-based comic book artist and freelance illustrator. Her work has been published in several short stories and anthologies like Deer Women and The Lost Pages. Her artwork has been displayed in many galleries and charity events; she was also given the opportunity to illustrate artwork for the Smithsonian Museum [Native Knowledge 360] Her cover work for Marvel are some of the most sought after variant covers on the market. Her work includes Marvel Voices, X- Force, Death of Doctor Strange: Bloodstone, Reptil, Women of Marvel, Spider-Punk, Devils Reign, X-Men, By the Horns, Refrigerator full of Heads, Drumsticks of Doom, Lunar Room, God Killer and Barbaric. She expresses her love, passion and raw detail through every line she draws. She believes that every line should bring out movement and flow, making even the smallest of details matter. Her art has been described as intense and powerful. She looks forward to every newopportunity and welcomes the challenges of her next big projects. Kelli MaroneyAs announced on the Screams from the Basement podcast, Kelli Maroney will be appearing at SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana! Kelli’s appearance is sponsored by Fear Asylum Haunted House of Brookings. An American actress whose career spans several decades, Kelli has appeared in 31+ films and over 540 hours of television. She first came to recognition through daytime TV programs RYAN’s HOPE and ONE LIFE to LIVE. Today Kelli’s cheerleader costume from FAST TIMES AT RIDGEMONT HIGH is on display in the Universal Studios Museum but she is perhaps best known for her work in the horror genre. Strong female leading roles, notably MAC-10-toting cheerleader “Samantha Belmont” in the zombie apocalypse classic NIGHT OF THE COMET, the sweet Killbot-slaying “Alison Parks” in CHOPPING MALL, “Jamie” in the underground slasher THE ZERO BOYS, teen psychotic-killer “Jolene” in SLAYGROUND, and several other well-received films quickly earned Kelli her seat at the table as a final girl in the family of the horror genre. She has guest-starred in a variety of prime-time ABC, NBC, and CBS shows, including the ever-popular MURDER, SHE WROTE. Kelli has said that her most fulfilling role to date is the schizophrenic femme fatale “Merrie/Meredith” in Showtime’s noir thriller FACE DOWN (written and directed by NIGHT OF THE COMET’s Thom Eberhardt), playing opposite Joe Mantegna, J.K. Simmons, and Adam Ant. Other streaming highlights include Kelli’s channeling Tammy Faye Baker on HBO’s TRUE BLOOD and playing herself in ADULT SWIM’S TIM and ERIC’S AWESOME SHOW-GREAT JOB! alongside Patrick Duffy. Current on-demand films include EXORCISM AT 60,000 FEET with horror icons Lance Henriksen, Adrienne Barbeau and Bill Moseley, THE DEEP ONES, a modernized H.P. Lovecraft film adaptation, and NIGHT CALLER, the 70s-inspired shocker with Steve Railsback and Lew Temple.Clara Meath Clara has been working professionally in comics since 2014. She graduated from SCAD Atlanta in 2016 with the honor of Valedictorian, and her credits include two independently Kickstarted graphic novels–‘Edgar Allan Poe’s The Conqueror Worm’, and ‘Mother47‘ both of which are now published by Comics Experience Publishing. Come say “Hi” to Clara and see what she’s up to now! Join us September 29 – October 1 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center! Rags Morales Legendary Comic Book Illustrator Rags Morales, sponsored by Brookings Books and Comics Morales is the artistic talent behind many of the most famous DC Comics titles, including “Identity Crisis”, DC’s ongoing company-wide storyline. You may have seen his work in “Nightwing”, “Superman/Batman”, “Blackest Night”, “Wonder Woman”, “Forgotten Realms”, “Black Condor”, “Justice Society of America”, and “Hawkman” among many other titles. He has also done work for Dungeons and Dragons magazine and novella work for Harper Collins, including titles by Isaac Asimov and Margaret Weis. Mythbusters Jr. We are pleased to announce that the Mythbusters Jr. crew will be back with us again for SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana! Rachel, Allie, and Elijah always bring creative and inspirational energy to SiouxperCon, and we love to have them! Rachel Pizzolato is a multitalented, award-winning scientist and Patent-Pending inventor, published writer and poet, fashion and runway model, National Champion Trampolinist, as well as an actor starring in Discovery Science Channel’s – MythBusters Jr. Allie Weber is a Sioux Falls teen who represented Sioux Falls brilliantly on Mythbusters Jr.! Allie’s creations make use of all kinds of tools and materials. She has been recognized for her innovations by Teen Vogue, 3M and even the Smithsonian! Elijah Horland rounds out the group, bringing his own version of creative, technical mischief, all the way from New York. Elijah is a maker, programmer, and circuitry wizard, with ingenuity to spare, and to share! Come see what the Mythbusters Jr. team have been up to since last year, and find out what’s next for them at SiouxperCon – September 29 – October 1, 2023 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center! Nebraska Mystery Machine Calling all Scooby Do fans! Come out to SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana to see the Mystery Machine! For the first time at SiouxperCon, the Nebraska Mystery Machine will be available for photo ops! Come see it, and many other attractions in the newly-expanded main stage area in the Sioux Falls Arena! Buy your convention tickets online ahead of time to save! Tom Nguyen We are excited to announce Tom Nguyen will be back with us again for SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana!  Tom Nguyen began his professional career freelancing for comic book publishers such as DC Comics and Marvel Comics from the age of 19.  Building his name as an inker, he has worked on major titles such as Batman, Green Lantern, JLA, Catwoman, and Superman: The Man of Steel among others.   Tom has since quickly branched out into other areas professionally, such as penciling, painting, and authoring two instructional books on comic book art.  In addition, Tom has added photography to his resume in recent years with his commercial work for catalogs and portraits of glamour and fitness models. Along with writer/artist (and SiouxperCon 2023 guest) Keith Champagne, Tom is the co-creator of the successful Kickstarter hit comic book The Switch and is currently working on the sequel. In recent years, Tom has rebranded himself as an illustrator for television specializing in pitch illustrations, storyboards, concept art, and onscreen artwork (most notably for CBS’s Big Brother, TBS’s Wipeout, and Nickelodeon’s All That among others) In his spare time, Tom makes appearances at various comic/pop culture conventions, teaches art via his online workshop Art Samurai, runs photography lighting workshops, lifts weights, and plans his next areas of travel with his wife and little Boston Terrier dog named Banh-Bao. Travis Nye SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana is excited to welcome back magician Travis Nye! If you haven’t seen Travis Nye perform live before – #1 Where have you been? and #2 You’re in for treat! Travis is known for not only his interactive magic acts, but also his close-up sleight of hand, as well as much more! He’s performed live on stage all across the midwest, and also on ABC, CBS, FOX, Kelo News and Dakota News Now. Travis will be wowing attendees throughout the weekend in the Kid Zone and will have a main stage magic show on Dakota News Now Family Day on Sunday, October 1st on the Main Stage. Nick Palma We’re excited to announce that stunt man, martial artist and “Action Turtle” Nick Palma will be joining us at SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond!, brought to you by Flashbax Comics and Collectibles.   His movie credits include being the “Action Turtle” (the performer in the suit) for Michaelangelo in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: Secret of the Ooz.” Nick will appear at SiouxperCon in the Michaelangelo suit for character photo ops as well as greeting attendees & signing autographs in the exhibit hall. Nick is a U.S. Army veteran, a Golden Glove-awarded boxer, and a skilled martial artist & performer having studied Wing Chun Kung Fu, Tae Kwon Do, Judo, Wrestling, Gymnastics, Fencing and Tai Chi. Eliot RahalEliot Rahal is returning to SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A- Wish of South Dakota & Montana! Eliot Rahal is an acclaimed writer based in Minneapolis. Best known for his creator-owned comics, Eliot has also collaborated on graphic novels with international entertainers like Machine Gun Kelly, Cheech & Chong, and “Last Podcast on the Left”. Additionally, Eliot’s works have been featured by “The New York Times”, “Late Night with Seth Meyers”, “The CBS Morning Show”, and “The Drew Barrymore Show”. Be sure to spend some time with Eliot on the Vendor floor September 29th to October 1st at the Sioux Falls Convention Center!Erick RowanFlagship Pro Wrestling and SiouxperCon are thrilled to announce the appearance of professional wrestler Erick Redbeard. Erick is best known for his time in WWE under the ring name Erick Rowan, a member of the Wyatt Family. He went on to become a one-time NXT Tag Team Champion (with Luke Harper) and a two-time SmackDown Tag Team Champion (once with Harper and once with Daniel Bryan). Erick has been wrestling the independent circuit since 2020 most notably in All Elite Wrestling.South Dakota Ghostbusters The original and premier Ghostbusters themed cosplay group of South Dakota are joining us again at SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana! Best known as Ghostbusters fans who take their love to the most extreme with movie-accurate props and outfits, all with the intent of raising money and awareness for a good cause or simply making people smile, the South Dakota Ghostbusters are not superheroes–just some average, hard-working Ghostbusters trying to help. This diverse group of cosplayers has only one wish–to serve the greater good and have fun doing it! They’re saving the world one charity event at a time. Who ya’ gonna call? Ghostbusters! SD Superheroes & Villains As always, we love to feature local clubs and groups that serve our community with their love of nerd culture and cosplay. We are pleased to announce that The SD Superheroes & Villains will be returning to SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana! The SD Superheroes & Villains is a cosplay group dedicated to bringing characters to life for children and families in the Siouxland area. They love to bring smiles to everyone at charity events, hospital visits, and numerous superhero-themed special appearances. They pride themselves on pushing for the best costumes they can create to make the characters look like they jumped off the comic page or off the movie screen. Making and sharing these costumes has brought them together and they love to see all the new costumes people bring to conventions like Siouxpercon! South Dakota LEGO User Group We are excited to announce that South Dakota LEGO User Group will be joining us for SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana! We will have LEGO creators from South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa who free build their own unique creations out of LEGO brick. All of these builders are members of SODALUG (South Dakota LEGO User Group) which is based in Sioux Falls.  Members will bring their creations to display at SiouxperCon, including:   5ft+ long replica of the USS Battleship South Dakota 80,000+ LEGO recreation of “Kaer Morhen” from The Witcher 3 a large series of scene layouts from Gilligan’s Island a 5ft x 5ft pirate world layout a massive LEGO lunar space station And More – including a special LEGO replica of Phillips Avenue in downtown Sioux Falls – planned to be unveiled at SiouxperCon! Come out and see LEGO dreams come to life with the South Dakota LEGO Users Group. You’ll find them and their amazing creations located in the SiouxperCon Kidzone presented by Bricks & Minifigs Sioux Falls all three days of the convention! Ron SimmonsHall of Fame Wrestler Ron Simmons is coming to SiouxperCon. Ron is a retired professional football player and professional wrestler. Ron was an All-American College Football Player for the Florida State Seminoles before playing professionally for the Cleveland Browns. He entered wrestling in 1986 for WCW and eventually found his way to the WWE and was inducted into their Hall of Fame in 2012. He was the first African American to win the WCW World Heavyweight Championship, and was thus the first officially recognized African American World Champion. He was also a one-time WCW World Tag Team Champion and a one-time WCW United States Tag Team Champion He was one of the most prominent stars in the WWF in the early Attitude Era. In the WWE, he was most famously, a three-time WWE Tag Team Champion with Bradshaw as one half of the Acolytes Protection Agency.Nick Simon Welcome back normal local Sioux Falls guy and hot-shot LA movie writer/director Nick Simon to SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana! Nick Simon grew up in a mixed-race home where an early interest in film allowed him a view into his Syrian heritage that wasn’t reflected in his local landscape. His interest in cinema turned to an obsession as he began filming the local bands, eventually crafting music videos that played on MTV. Simon moved to Los Angeles in 2006 to attend the American Film Institute, which led to him being mentored by the late horror legend, Wes Craven. Nick has directed and written several feature and television films including “The Girl in the Photographs”, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and “The Pyramid”, released by 20th Century Fox. Simon’s film, “Untitled Horror Movie”, is an innovative movie that was filmed entirely remotely, during the 2020 lockdown and released in 2021. Nick’s appearance is sponsored by Pepper Entertainment. A hearty thank-you to them for helping us to bring Nick back to SiouxperCon! Arthur Suydam Love zombie stories? C’mon – who doesn’t? Our guest–Arthur “Zombie King” Suydam–is probably partially responsible for that. Suydam’s work for the smash hit series “Marvel Zombies” helped prompt the international pop-culture zombie phenomenon. Suydam is an award-winning artist for “The Walking Dead”, “Marvel Zombies”, “Deadpool”, “Army of Darkness”, “Moonknight”, “Black Panther” and many more. He’s won the Spike TV Scream Award, Spectrum Gold Award for Institutional Art, The San Sebastian Film Festival Lifetime Achievement Award, U.O.M.E.S. Lifetime Achievement Award, and numerous fan-site favorite awards across the globe. And did I mention ZOMBIES?  Ben TemplesmithFor the first time, SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana will be welcoming Ben Templesmith! Ben Templesmith is a New York Times best-selling artist and writer most widely known for his work in the comic book industry where he has received multiple nominations for the International Horror Guild Awards as well as the industry’s top prize, the Eisner Award. He also won a Spike TV Scream Award. As a creator, his most notable works have been 30 Days of Night (which spawned a major motion picture) and Fell. His other projects include the critically acclaimed serial Wormwood: Gentleman Corpse, as well as Welcome to Hoxford, and Singularity 7, all of which he also wrote. He has also worked on the Star Wars, Doctor Who, GI Joe, Army of Darkness, Silent Hill and Buffy: The Vampire Slayer properties and produces art and design for music bands, dvds, toys, and film concept work. This will be Ben’s first time visiting South Dakota! Come see him on the exhibit floor all three days–join us Sept. 29 through Oct. 1 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center! Tickets available for pre-purchase now!Peter Wartman We are thrilled to announce that Peter Wartman, cartoonist and illustrator will be back with us for SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond! Peter is currently working as the artist on the Avatar: The Last Airbender graphic novels with writer Faith Erin Hicks.  His past work includes his debut, creator-owned graphic novel, Over the Wall, and its sequel, Stonebreaker, both of which were published by Uncivilized Books. He has also done work as a writer, most recently writing the NY Times Best Selling Dragon Prince: Through the Moon with artist Xanthe Bouma. Caroline Williams As announced on the Screams from the Basement podcast, horror queen Caroline Williams-Stretch from Texas Chainsaw II and the upcoming Nick Cage movie Reinfeld, will be appearing at SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond! Sponsored by Fear Asylum. After starting out in mainstream movies, commercials and voiceover work, Caroline Williams earned her first horror role by running screaming down the hallway and bursting into the casting office, pulling the chairs out from under the casting directors and performing her audition huddled in a corner. Her antics won her the role from a field of 440 actresses and set her on a path to roles in a mix of horror and mainstream films, including “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2”, “Leprechaun 3”, “Stepfather II”, “Days of Thunder” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”. She has also appeared in numerous TV series guest starring roles including “Grey’s Anatomy”, “The Mentalist”, “ER”, “Nip/Tuck”, “NYPD Blue” and “Murder She Wrote”, among many others. She even made an appearance in the Sharknado franchise, appearing in “Sharknado: The 4th Awakens”. Dave WheelerPlease help us welcome back one of the co-founders of the kid-friendly comic company – Mind Wave Comics – Dave Wheeler! Dave is a jack of all trades when it comes to comics and design. Working as an: inker, colorist, letterer, writer and book designer in comics for the better part of two decades. He’s doing his part to bring back fun to comics! Along with comics Dave has worked as a toy designer for Boss Fight Studios and streams regularly about his love of toys on his Youtube channel: Youtube.com/davewonder Outside of comics and toys Dave also has worked as a graphics, gear and merch designer in the professional wrestling industry, having his work seen on AEW, ROH and WWE! Find out what he likes to do when he’s not in the studio! Rumor has it he enjoys long walks on the beach, making toys and professional wrestling! Come meet Dave Wheeler at SiouxperCon 2023: To Sioux Falls and Beyond benefitting Make-A-Wish of South Dakota & Montana. Tickets are available now for September 29-October 1 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center. Get yours today!

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with PDR Deer Hunt founder Dean Rasmussen as young disabled teens learn to hunt with the full support of the whole town of Clark, SD. from their news release: This year nine special needs hunters will be in Clark, South Dakota September 22 through 24, enjoying the adventure of an authentic South Dakota big game hunt.  These are the nine hunters coming to the 2023 PDR Hunt.  Andrew Haiar – Mitchell, South Dakota Zachery Keith – Mitchell, South Dakota Thomas Kosinski – Elk Point, South Dakota Kristopher Moke – Mitchell, South Dakota Brothers: Justin and Jen Scheff – Montrose, South Dakota Cory Lauren Stager -  Ipswich, South Dakota Koby Syverson – Volin, South Dakota Seth Tarbox – Clark, South Dakota PDR Hunt founder, Dean Rasmussen said, "When the smoke clears the PDR hunt is not merely about the deer harvest."  The biggest recoil from this event comes when these kids' excited smiles strike people's hearts.  For more information about the PDR deer hunt for disabled youth contact Dean Rasmussen at 605-233-0331 or log onto www.pdryouthhunt.com.   

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Olivia Essig, Sioux Empire United Way Campaign Director about the kick-off of the 2024 campaign. from their website: https://www.seuw.org/ 2024 Campaign Kickoff Week Sioux Empire United Way invites you to participate in the 2024 Campaign Kickoff all week long, September 18-23, 2023.  Check back here for updates and follow us on social for the latest news on how to get involved during kickoff week. Monday, September 18 Brew The Good! We invite SEUW community supporters to visit a Sioux Empire (Sioux Falls, Brandon, Tea) Scooter's Coffee to receive a free coffee on us! Thanks to our event sponsor First PREMIER Bank/Bankcard and Scooter's Coffee for helping make this possible.  Free drink will be limited to one (1) drink per transaction. Includes drink of any type/size. Promotion will begin at 6 a.m. and end when allocated funds at that location are gone. We encourage you to share your Scooters experience on your social media accounts and tag Sioux Empire United Way. Can't make our coffee date? You can still celebrate the first day of Kickoff Week by stopping by The Barrel House to support SEUW. On Monday, September 18, TheBarrell House will be donating 10% of all profits to SEUW. Stop by and grab a bite to help support SEUW! Also starting on Monday, September 18 is a roundup at the register promotion with Nyberg's Ace. Visit any Nyberg's Ace location and be sure to round up your purchase to benefit SEUW. This promotion will run through October 1.  Tuesday, September 19 Sioux Empire United Way Board of Directors, Staff and Volunteers will be in the community visiting our partner agencies while delivering donuts from Flyboy Donuts. Thanks to Flyboy Donuts for helping make this possible.  Flyboy Donuts will be selling a custom SEUW dozen and coffee blend with a percentage of proceeds benefitting SEUW. More information on how to order yours coming soon! Wednesday, September 20 Join us for an exclusive bus tour of three partner agencies.  In addition to our regular tour schedule, we have added a bus tour to bring together volunteers, donors and community members in touring three agencies serving children, vulnerable adults, and people in crisis: Active Generations, Furniture Mission, and Boys & Girls Club of the Sioux Empire. RSVP online! Thursday, September 21 SEUW is partnering with Severance Brewing Company to launch another exclusive beer this year, SEUW Brew. SEUW Brew (pronounced Sioux Brew) is an American Cream Ale. Come out to the launch party at Severance Brewing from 4-7 pm and try this delicious and exclusive beer. The first 50 attendees will receive a commemorative SEUW Brew glass. Severance will be donating $1 of every beer sold during the launch party to SEUW. You can also support SEUW the entire month in their taproom by rounding up your tab. The SEUW Brew will be sold in select stores throughout the Sioux Empire with $1 of each four-pack sold benefiting SEUW. Cheers! Friday, September 22 Come enjoy a FREE lunch as SEUW serves the community. Thank you to our event sponsor, First Interstate Bank for making this community meal possible. Lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m to 1:30 p.m. outdoors in the Paladino Hohm Sculpture Garden, located on the north side of the Washington Pavilion. All are welcome, we hope to see you there! Saturday, September 23 We invite you to help support our youth programs through a community gear drive. SEUW in partnership with Scheels will be collecting items to donate to our youth-focused agencies to support their program needs. Below is a list of youth gear and activity items needed. Donations can be brought to Scheels on Saturday, September 23, where SEUW will be set up for a fun Saturday with Scheels.  Needed Items: Board games, playground/sports balls, outdoor activities, hula hoops, bubbles, sidewalk chalk, toys (youth-school age), legos, fidget toys, colored duct tape, books, puzzles, cars, outside toys, and arts & craft supplies. All donations must be NEW. We CANNOT ACCEPT items like clothing, snacks, diapers, etc...  Funded Agencies Click on an agency name below to learn more about their programs funded through Sioux Empire United Way. Click here for a printable list.   Active Generations Augustana University Avera McKennan Children's Programs Boy Scouts of America, Sioux Council Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire Children’s Home Shelter for Family Safety The Community Outreach The Compass Center Connecting Kids DakotAbilities Delta Dental of South Dakota Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Family Connection Family Service Inc. Furniture Mission of South Dakota Glory House Helpline Center HorsePower Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership KIDSTOP Lost & Found Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota Project Car REACH Ready to Start Sad Isn't Bad Sanford Children's Save a Life - Community AEDs Sioux Falls Area CASA Program Sioux Falls Family YMCA Sioux Falls Hope Coalition Sioux Falls School District Sioux Falls Thrive St. Francis House Toy Lending Library USD Scottish Rite Children’s Clinic for Speech and Language Disorders Volunteers of America, Dakotas Sioux Empire United Way addresses many needs across the community. Needs that are ever present.  84% of Sioux Falls school-aged children live in households where all parents work outside the home. The US Census Bureau estimates that 27,680 in the Sioux Empire four-county area are aged 65 or older, while 31% of older adults have a disability and 28% live near the poverty level. In South Dakota, 54% of adults in need of mental health services do not receive counseling or other types of treatment. When we unite together to tackle the issues of our community, we are able to creating an impact in the lives of children, vulnerable adults, and people in crisis. Use the links below to see your impact through Sioux Empire United Way: Helping Children Helping Vulnerable Adults Helping People in Crisis Quality Childcare & Early Childhood Education 876 children attend quality childcare programs. Support for New Parents All new parents receive basic information and resources at both local health systems when they welcome a new baby. Out of School Time Care and Opportunities 2,428 youth participate in 7 different out of school time care options. Youth Outreach & Development Opportunities 1,455 youth are matched with a mentor through three programs. Physical & Mental Wellbeing 466 children receive mental health care services directly at their schools.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with American Legion Post 15 Commander Dale Hill about Veteran ceremonies and cemetery events this month in Sioux Falls.  Dale has been in the Legion for over 40 years.. WHAT: REMEMBERING POW/MIA FROM VIETNAM/KOREAN & WWII VETERANS ANNUAL CEREMONY WHEN: September 15, 2023 at 6:30PM (Annually on the 3rd Friday of September) HOSTS - Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 959 assisted by the Sioux Falls American Legion Post 15 WHERE - Veteran Memorial Park 1021 West Baily Street Sioux Falls, SD Weather alternate - 1700 W Russell St, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 (Legion/VFW) in the Armory. Reception to follow at the Legion/VFW in the Armory at 1700 W Russell St, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 - use the north parking lot and door. This is an annual event that several families of missing Vietnam Veterans usually attend. There have been invitations extended to families of a WWII and a Korean veteran also. There are 7 POW/MIA's from Vietnam TOMMY LEON CALLIES, DONALD DEANE ALDERN, ALLEN DUANE CHRISTENSEN, STANLEY JON FRENG, CHARLES LANE JR, WALTER A RENELT, and DAVID PECOR SOYLAND. We are currently using these numbers: Seven South Dakotans are still missing from the Vietnam War, 34 are unaccounted for from the Korean War, and 312 from World War II For information on Vietnam Vets of America see https://vva.org/chapter/vva-chapter-959/or call Hawk Mayer at 605-830-2011. What: The original SD State Veteran Cemetery painting, by painter John Green, will be on display at the Cemetery office. Where: SD State Veteran Cemetery located at 25965 477th Avenue Sioux Falls When: September 13, 2023 at 4PM John Green, a local painter from Madison, South Dakota gifted the painting to the Department of SD Legion. The Sioux Falls American Legion Post 15 purchased the original painting at the SD American Legion Convention and those proceeds were donated to the SD Legion Foundation. The Sioux Falls American Legion Post 15 is selling prints of the SD State Veteran Cemetery painting with those proceeds will benefit local veterans, active military and their families, educating youth and support youth programs. To purchase a print, please call 605.336.3470. For more information regarding the SD State Veteran Cemetery Painting, please call John Green on 605.256.3610. For more information on the SD State Veteran Cemetery contact the office at 605.277.8094.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (Since 1977) talks to Jeff Hayzlett about his success starting From Box Elder to Sioux Falls and now Brandon with New York and Los Angeles offices "because he can". From Wikepedia: Jeffrey Hayzlett (born 1960/61) is an American businessman. He was formerly the chief marketing officer of the Eastman Kodak Company from 2006-2010.[2] In 2014 he became the CEO of The Hayzlett Group. Early life[edit] Hayzlett graduated from Douglas High School in Box Elder, South Dakota in 1979. He then studied government and international affairs at Augustana College, a private college in Sioux Falls. He was a member of Pi Sigma Epsilon.[3] Career[edit] Hayzlett joined Kodak in April 2006 as chief marketing officer and vice president of the company's Graphic Communications Group.[4] Beginning in 2007, Hayzlett was a guest celebrity judge on NBC’s Celebrity Apprentice for three seasons.[5] Hayzlett is the founder and chairman of several businesses. In 2008 he became the CEO of the Hayzlett Group, as well as the chairman of TallGrass Public Relations. In 2013 he became the co-founder and chairman of the C-Suite Network.[6] In May 2010, Jeff Hayzlett released a book entitled The Mirror Test: Is Your Business Really Breathing?[1] In January 2012, Hayzlett released his second book, Running the Gauntlet: Essential Business Lessons to Lead, Drive Change, and Grow Profits. In September 2015, Hayzlett released his third book, “Think Big, Act Bigger: The Rewards of Being Relentless.” In 2013, Hayzlett became a contributing editor for Bloomberg Television.[7] Hayzlett has hosted C-Suite with Jeffrey Hayzlett and Executive Perspectives on C-Suite TV since 2015.[8] Hayzlett has also hosted All Business with Jeffrey Hayzlett, a business podcast which airs on C-Suite Radio, since 2015.[9] C-Suite with Jeffrey Hayzlett[edit]Jeffrey Hayzlett filming Cadillac at the LA Auto Show for his Bloomberg Television show "C-Suite with Jeffrey Hayzlett" On September 3, 2013, Bloomberg announced Hayzlett's new role as the host of C-Suite with Jeffrey Hayzlett. It premiered October 8 and airs weekly Tuesdays at 9:30P ET/PT on Bloomberg.[10] It features an inside look at major companies and brands.[11] Hayzlett investigates the executive team of recognized brands. The show profiles various business models and offers new perspectives on boardroom decision-making. The show was put together by Hayzlett, Thomas White, and Karl Post.[12] It was produced by Star Crossed Pictures. Producers included Brandon Lisy, Stephen Palgon, and Louis Foglia. It ran for one season. C-Suite with Jeffrey Hayzlett has been well received, and news of the show has been reported by Inc.,[13]U-T San Diego,[14]Business Marketing Association,[15] and a number of other websites.[16]

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels talks to Jeff Gould (America's Storyteller) and Bob Uecker (Producer of America's Story) about their living the American Dream. from their website: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/americas-story/  America’s Story SACRIFICE AND BLESSING This popular keynote shares remarkable story of America, as only Jeff Gould can tell it. Uplifting, touching and profound, it is a presentation that inspires listeners to consider the sacrifice and blessing of our nation’s history.  Perfect for community events, fundraisers, or corporate gatherings, America’s Story is a powerful presentation that will remind all Americans of our gifts, responsibilities, challenges and opportunities as Americans. Stay tuned for new show dates and details. For tickets, or to host your own live show, contact Bob Uecker at (605) 336-3206. Inspire your heart and be reminded of our nation’s history of sacrifice and blessing.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with James Oppenheimer, Executive Director of the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society and Dana Konzem, Marketing Director about the dogs and cats at the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society. from their website:https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/: MISSION AND VALUESHome > About > Mission and ValuesThe Sioux Falls Area Humane Society helps over 8,000 animals every single year while creating hundreds of happy families, and helping thousands through education, programs, and services. Serving since 1919, the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society is an open admission 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that takes in abandoned, abused, homeless and unwanted animals that need tender loving care until they can find a permanent home. We help these animals find their permanent home, prevent animal cruelty and educate people on the humane treatment of animals. The SFAHS is 100% community-funded and is not affiliated with nor funded by any national humane societies or pet organizations and we do not receive any financial aid from the city, state, or federal government. The funds for our organization are raised through donations and bequests, special events, adoption fees, and community fundraisers completed by generous people right here in our own communities. Our mission is to be a safe haven and human voice for all animals in need. We currently provide services to an area with over 250,000 people with humane officers outside Sioux Falls city limits, public low-cost microchipping, community pet food bank, and a reference library for pet tips. We are proud to host many amazing events throughout the year, provide tours and give the opportunity for service groups, and are continually amazed by the generous individuals to donate to our shelter every day. We are blessed to have a community that supports our mission through monetary donations, adoptions, food and wishlist donations, as well as volunteering their own hours to help us care for the animals in need and so many more ways. We will be known for quality of animal care, a high level of customer service, and our ability to guide every animal to their forever home.  Values Compassion: We will treat everyone with compassion. We will empathize with the people we serve, regardless of their circumstances. We will uplift each other, showing kindness and understanding as we work together to determine the best outcomes for the animals in our care. Inclusivity: We will be inclusive and accepting of all animals, adopters, staff, and volunteers in support of our work as an open-admission shelter. Community Responsibility: We will be responsible for promoting animal welfare and controlling the pet population in the Sioux Falls Area. We do this by providing education, housing, and animal control services, as well as by spaying or neutering every animal before it leaves our care. Innovation: We will not accept the status quo. We will always be looking for new and innovative ways to improve the care and treatment of animals and how to best serve the people who love them. Transparency: We will be transparent with our staff, volunteers, board members, the public we serve by providing regular and open communication celebrating both success and challenges. We will trust our leadership to share the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society's motivations, processes, and outcomes to gain trust, support, and obtain assistance as needed.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Dax Briden (Z8 Coordinator), Jon Setzer (Vice President) and Josh Brewer (CEO) of Lifelight about their huge festival to be held for the first time in downtown Sioux Falls (twenty acres) from their website: lifelight.org and facebook: .This year's LifeLight Festival marks our 25th Anniversary celebration! It will be a LifeLight Festival like you have never seen before. A full day of live music with some of today's top artists featuring; Skillet, Colton Dixon, Cade Thompson and many more to be announced! The LifeLight Festival will be held in the heart of Sioux Falls, SD with the expectation of being one of the biggest events to ever take place downtown. In addition, to live music, there will be food trucks, a children's area & inflatables, action sports, and more. You do not want to miss this event!! The best part is we are staying true to our calling and it is all FREE ADMISSION!!

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Community Action for Veterans Executive Director Jill Baker and Dakotas Regional Office Director Shawn Bolin about the PACT Act and the August 9th deadline. Also the Healthcare Drive on August 8th at the Armory of the Alliance. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 29, 2023 SIOUX FALLS – On August 8, 2023, Community Action for Veterans (CAV) will host its first PACT Act Benefits/VA Healthcare Drive to inform Veterans, their families, and survivors about the PACT Act and encourage them to apply for the health care and benefits they have earned. The PACT Act is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. Representatives from the Dakotas Regional Office, Sioux Falls VA Health Care System, and the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be ready to help Veterans apply for PACT Act-related benefits (or submit an intent to file), enroll in VA health care, get screened for toxic exposures, and more. CAV encourages all eligible Veterans and survivors to file a claim – or submit their intent to file a claim – for PACT Act-related benefits now. Veterans who do so by August 9, 2023, may have their benefits, if granted, backdated to August 10, 2022, the day that President Biden signed the bill into law. The PACT Act Benefits/VA Healthcare Drive will be hosted by CAV at the Armory at the Alliance located at 1700 West Russell Street in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. There will be two sessions available to attend. The first session will run from 11:00am to 1:30pm and the second session will run from 4:00pm to 6:30pm. On site refreshments and sack lunches to go will be provided by the VFW, Post 628 and American Legion, Unit 15 Auxiliaries. All Veterans, veteran families, caregivers, survivors, and advocates are welcome to attend. For more information, contact Jill Baker, CAV Executive Director, at (605) 910-4045 or email Jill@sdvets.org.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels talks about human trafficking with expert heavy hitters speaking at the State Theater in Sioux Falls. Alisa Giorczyk – In addition to holding a master’s degree in international relations from Harvard University, Alisa is a member of the OSCE International Survivor Advisory Council, and a member of INTERPOL’s Human Trafficking Expert Group, and a member of the Global Association of Human Trafficking Scholars. Her certifications include Certified Human Trafficking Investigator (CHTI), certified in open source intelligence, and a certified trainer in human rights issues. Alisa strives to disrupt criminal networks worldwide by utilizing her voice, cyber knowledge, research, and personal experience. She is driven by a desire to safeguard the population, protect the vulnerable, and bring criminals to justice. Alia (Dewees) Azariah – Director of Aftercare Development at Safe House Project, Local Programs Manager at Forever Found, member of the California CSEC Action Team’s Advisory Board. Drawing from her own personal experience as a victim of trafficking and the commercial sex industry, both as a minor and an adult, Alia is dedicated to never allowing the anti-trafficking industry and related fields to become stagnant. Her firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by survivors informs her approach and fuels her determination to create meaningful change. Throughout her career, Alia has collaborated with over 500 organizations and individuals professionally tied to the anti-trafficking industry. She has engaged with over 160 individuals who have experienced trafficking, providing crucial support in exit strategies and operations. Furthermore, her commitment to education and awareness has led her to train over 35,000 individuals on topics such as identification, service provision, survivor involvement, and other aspects related to human trafficking. Rita Gail O’Brien, LLMSW – Survivor of familial trafficking and educator in the field of sex trafficking. Rita has a passion for Justice to educate the very communities that she was trafficked from. Professionally, she has done Security, Police Work, Photography, and Journalism and was a House Director at a Sorority at the University of Michigan. Rita got her Undergraduate Degree at Eastern Michigan University and then went on to get her Masters in Social work from Western Michigan University with a Trauma focus. Rita is a Board member of Pearls of Great Price Coalition out of Plymouth MI and is also on the board for Kalamazoo Area Anti Trafficking Coalition. Rita continues to speak out to educate others on how to watch for Human Trafficking in their communities. Rita is the rank of Major in the volunteer organization Civil Air Patrol (United States Air Force Auxiliary).  Rita enjoys helping serve meals at her church at the midweek service. When Rita gets a free moment you will find her anywhere on Lake Michigan, she likes to be at Silver Lake Sand Dunes on a 4- wheeler tearing up the sand with her sons.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Craig Severtson of Flandreau, founder, and Sam Gotham, board member, of "Helping Kids Round First Base.  How baseball (and softball) has opened the door to help kids in Nicaragua (and other 3rd world countries) with nutrition and even health care. from their website: helpingkidsroundfirst.org Life in Nicaragua is difficult, that's why we are here to help Extreme Poverty Nicaragua is the poorest country in Central America Baseball is king Like youth all around the world, kids grow up dreaming of playing in the big leagues Lack of Resources Few resources means few opportunities, and we are here to provide them "We are training a group of young girls between 7-20 years old, some of them have had issues with domestic violence and drugs. Through softball they have found refuge to improve their lifestyle." by Yahoska Rivas, Softball Coach "The project has come to innovate and it has been great for the economy of our families and food security of the children. We are very grateful for the help, even despite the pandemic." by Claudia Guillén, community resident "All of the equipment and financial support has made it possible to help kids in Rivas. Without Helping Kids Round First, it wouldn't be possible for my players to reach their dreams."  by Johnny Alvarez - Coach,Working for a Dream Academy "It's not just the community that benefits from the equipment but also the surrounding communities." by Emperatrice Velasquez, Pastor of Lutheran Church

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels talks with Dillion Hinker, Senior Director of Home and Community Based Services for Sanford and Good Samaritan Society, about end of life needs and care in Sioux Falls. What is hospice? from their website When is the right time for hospice? If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness, it may be time to consider hospice. It’s important that you, your doctor, and oftentimes, your loved ones agree on the appropriate time to begin hospice care. Our mission is to focus on helping patients accomplish their goals — while providing them with an opportunity to make their own choices when it comes to their care.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Mary, a local woman who survived being trafficked to Columbia..Call to Freedom CEO Becky Rasmussen also talks about her Sioux Falls office growing to over 25 staff and volunteers. from their website: Navigating a healthy path for victims of human trafficking.Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. John 3:20 30 Seconds someone becomes a victim of human trafficking according to the Mariposa Women & Family Center. 40 Million estimated people in bondage across the globe according to the International Labor Organization.1 4 Years Old is the average age of a trafficking victim according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Hidden in Plain Sight Call to Freedom Presents HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT: SHARING THEIR LIFE JOURNEY TO SHINE A LIGHT ON MODERN DAY SLAVERYFREE Event but you must register online as seating is limited!Location: Sioux Falls State Theater (Downtown Sioux Falls) 316 S Phillips Ave. Survivors will share their personal journeys to educate and bring awareness on the issue of human trafficking. Alisa Giorczyk – In addition to holding a master’s degree in international relations from Harvard University, Alisa is a member of the OSCE International Survivor Advisory Council, and a member of INTERPOL’s Human Trafficking Expert Group, and a member of the Global Association of Human Trafficking Scholars. Her certifications include Certified Human Trafficking Investigator (CHTI), certified in open source intelligence, and a certified trainer in human rights issues. Alisa strives to disrupt criminal networks worldwide by utilizing her voice, cyber knowledge, research, and personal experience. She is driven by a desire to safeguard the population, protect the vulnerable, and bring criminals to justice. Alia Dewees – Director of Aftercare Development at Safe House Project, Local Programs Manager at Forever Found, member of the California CSEC Action Team’s Advisory Board. Drawing from her own personal experience as a victim of trafficking and the commercial sex industry, both as a minor and an adult, Alia is dedicated to never allowing the anti-trafficking industry and related fields to become stagnant. Her firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by survivors informs her approach and fuels her determination to create meaningful change. Throughout her career, Alia has collaborated with over 500 organizations and individuals professionally tied to the anti-trafficking industry. She has engaged with over 160 individuals who have experienced trafficking, providing crucial support in exit strategies and operations. Furthermore, her commitment to education and awareness has led her to train over 35,000 individuals on topics such as identification, service provision, survivor involvement, and other aspects related to human trafficking. Rita Gail O’Brien, LLMSW – Survivor of familial trafficking and educator in the field of sex trafficking. Rita has a passion for Justice to educate the very communities that she was trafficked from. Professionally, she has done Security, Police Work, Photography, and Journalism and was a House Director at a Sorority at the University of Michigan. Rita got her Undergraduate Degree at Eastern Michigan University and then went on to get her Masters in Social work from Western Michigan University with a Trauma focus. Rita is a Board member of Pearls of Great Price Coalition out of Plymouth MI and is also on the board for Kalamazoo Area Anti Trafficking Coalition. Rita continues to speak out to educate others on how to watch for Human Trafficking in their communities. Rita is the rank of Major in the volunteer organization Civil Air Patrol (United States Air Force Auxiliary).  Rita enjoys helping serve meals at her church at the midweek service. When Rita gets a free moment you will find her anywhere on Lake Michigan, she likes to be at Silver Lake Sand Dunes on a 4- wheeler tearing up the sand with her sons.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Chuck Nelson, Chairman of the Sioux Falls Air Show, and Rick Tupper, former Chair, about the July 29-30 Power on The Prairie Sioux Falls Air Show. from their website: https://www.siouxfallsairshow.com Thursday, jULY 27, 2023 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Free admission ​Maverick Air Center 4301 N Maverick Place Sioux Falls, SD The field of aviation has many components to include: Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM).  Every year we learn more about flight from faster airplanes, to unmanned aircraft, to flying beyond our atmosphere into space.  Who will be the next person to develop the next big break through in aviation?  ​ Join us for this annual Discover Aviation event, sponsored by Aerostar, designed for kids of all ages.  We will have many activities and opportunities to learn more and have fun. Saturday & Sunday 8:30am CST - 5:00pm CST Gates are open 8:30am CST    Buses begin running (to transport guests to air show grounds)  11:00am CST   Performances begin (check back for updates) Special Operations Command Para-Commandos Vanguard Squadron Skip Stewart Airshows Melissa Burns Airshows Kent Pietsch Warbirds - C-47 "That's All Brother" South Dakota Air National Guard F-16s USMC MC-22 Osprey Demonstration Team USAF F-16 Viper Demonstration Team 2:30pm CST   USAF Thunderbirds 4:00pm CST   Performances end 5:00pm CST   Gates Close

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks to Ken Alvine about Sioux Falls cartoonist Chris Browne.  Ken has brought many national cartoonist conventions to Sioux Falls and talks about how to make a career of cartooning like Chris Browne had. Ken organized a memorial celebration for Chris. Part of Ken Alvine's resume: Created and taught post high Graphic Design Program for SE Area Technical School Co-founder Karts West and Wild Water West ..Large Water Park and Amusement Park Art Director and manager of several In-house Agencies and Art departments for several large corporations. President of the South Dakota Advertising Federation Full Member National Cartoonists Society Served Two terms NCS Foundation NCS national Education Chairman Started NCS North Central Chapter Created Toon-Ed cartoon website Created National Cartoonists Day Board member Minnehaha County Historical Society