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 (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
<ul>
<li>April 25, 2024 – Thursday – 12:30 pm, 7:00 pm</li>
<li>April 26, 2024 – Friday – 12:30 pm, 7:00 pm</li>
<li>April 27, 2024 – Saturday – 9:00 am, 2:00 pm, 7:00 pm</li>
<li>April 28, 2024 – Sunday – 12:30 pm, 5:00 pm</li>
<li>The 3 Shows in bold are all general admission (no reserved seats)</li>
</ul>
Chamberlain, SD – National Guard Armory
<ul>
<li>April 22, 2024 – Monday – 4:30 pm, 7:15 pm</li>
<li>April 23, 2024 – Tuesday – 4:30 pm, 7:15 pm</li>
</ul>
Mitchell, SD – Mitchell Corn Palace
<ul>
<li>April 29, 2024 – Monday – 7:00 pm</li>
<li>April 30, 2024 – Tuesday – 10:00 am, 4:30 pm, 7:15 pm</li>
<li>May 1, 2024 – Wednesday – 4:30 pm, 7:15 pm</li>
</ul>
Yankton, SD – Easton Yankton Archery Complex
<ul>
<li>June 21, 2024 – Friday – 1:00 pm, 7:00 pm</li>
</ul>
Winner, SD – Tripp County Fairgrounds
<ul>
<li>June 22, 2024 – Saturday – 8:00 pm</li>
</ul>
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.
<a href="https://elriad.org/reserved-seat-tickets">Purchase Online Reserved Seat Tickets (WILL CALL ONLY)</a>
<a href="https://elriad.org/circus-coupons">Coupon requests for Schools, Nursing Homes and Daycares</a>
Coupons for Home Schools will be available at the El Riad Shrine Center beginning April 18th).

A community issues and answering program that focuses on the city and people of the Sioux Empire.

Jon Michaels' Forum

81st Annual El Riad Shrine Three Ring Circus - Aril 25-28 - SF Arena

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 talks with Downtown Lions member, Todd Smith, about the annual pancake story.
from websites and facebook:
What does buying a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1626313537807930/?__cft__[0]=AZWZdIHuO2mzqVCe-RvVDUzahSBxzlAU1EYpC3jhDqaJo9yeV__v-8YXRCioIESsTGQnw49SCHHgvE51hYnpIVTIle8VU6iFmLSLncOjtEzVt7h6ksOaQ1mHyfLTndIZh0LsPlLZ-LJmCT8Syb_uoO3CL5W1asX7eS5tU2tCkn-Vl4IGUbYXh6emriYydPDb8zs&amp;__tn__=-UK-R">Sioux Falls Lions Pancake Days</a> 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 <a></a>-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 <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1626313537807930/?__cft__[0]=AZWZdIHuO2mzqVCe-RvVDUzahSBxzlAU1EYpC3jhDqaJo9yeV__v-8YXRCioIESsTGQnw49SCHHgvE51hYnpIVTIle8VU6iFmLSLncOjtEzVt7h6ksOaQ1mHyfLTndIZh0LsPlLZ-LJmCT8Syb_uoO3CL5W1asX7eS5tU2tCkn-Vl4IGUbYXh6emriYydPDb8zs&amp;__tn__=-UK-R">Sioux Falls Lions Pancake Days</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/southdakotalionsclub?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWZdIHuO2mzqVCe-RvVDUzahSBxzlAU1EYpC3jhDqaJo9yeV__v-8YXRCioIESsTGQnw49SCHHgvE51hYnpIVTIle8VU6iFmLSLncOjtEzVt7h6ksOaQ1mHyfLTndIZh0LsPlLZ-LJmCT8Syb_uoO3CL5W1asX7eS5tU2tCkn-Vl4IGUbYXh6emriYydPDb8zs&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#southdakotalionsclub</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/siouxfallslionspancakedays?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWZdIHuO2mzqVCe-RvVDUzahSBxzlAU1EYpC3jhDqaJo9yeV__v-8YXRCioIESsTGQnw49SCHHgvE51hYnpIVTIle8VU6iFmLSLncOjtEzVt7h6ksOaQ1mHyfLTndIZh0LsPlLZ-LJmCT8Syb_uoO3CL5W1asX7eS5tU2tCkn-Vl4IGUbYXh6emriYydPDb8zs&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#siouxfallslionspancakedays</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/wherethereisaneedthereisalion?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWZdIHuO2mzqVCe-RvVDUzahSBxzlAU1EYpC3jhDqaJo9yeV__v-8YXRCioIESsTGQnw49SCHHgvE51hYnpIVTIle8VU6iFmLSLncOjtEzVt7h6ksOaQ1mHyfLTndIZh0LsPlLZ-LJmCT8Syb_uoO3CL5W1asX7eS5tU2tCkn-Vl4IGUbYXh6emriYydPDb8zs&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#wherethereisaneedthereisalion</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/weserve?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWZdIHuO2mzqVCe-RvVDUzahSBxzlAU1EYpC3jhDqaJo9yeV__v-8YXRCioIESsTGQnw49SCHHgvE51hYnpIVTIle8VU6iFmLSLncOjtEzVt7h6ksOaQ1mHyfLTndIZh0LsPlLZ-LJmCT8Syb_uoO3CL5W1asX7eS5tU2tCkn-Vl4IGUbYXh6emriYydPDb8zs&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#WeServe</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/lionsclubsinternational?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWZdIHuO2mzqVCe-RvVDUzahSBxzlAU1EYpC3jhDqaJo9yeV__v-8YXRCioIESsTGQnw49SCHHgvE51hYnpIVTIle8VU6iFmLSLncOjtEzVt7h6ksOaQ1mHyfLTndIZh0LsPlLZ-LJmCT8Syb_uoO3CL5W1asX7eS5tU2tCkn-Vl4IGUbYXh6emriYydPDb8zs&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#LionsClubsInternational</a>
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? <a></a>Let's make a difference together, one cent at a time! <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/roundingup?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUBRe3DfqgyiuyOuuziw1Pvf9vSsqCM_lNqN_9G704WJt76Mj7Vpko3Xhq2nT-_iTZON8aFzVOKQJlOqhoJb7NP-FX_iIqV7UcB4n6DXqohbVCa0m48VNTgQj2Vp3lme4schwmHk1aVIOnCFOqvcWdZnI2efLmj2uWYNY0s15glYGSK5yo2Ig1eyeUNNTO7WtY&amp;__tn__=*NK-R"> #Rounding</a>U<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/everycentcounts?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUBRe3DfqgyiuyOuuziw1Pvf9vSsqCM_lNqN_9G704WJt76Mj7Vpko3Xhq2nT-_iTZON8aFzVOKQJlOqhoJb7NP-FX_iIqV7UcB4n6DXqohbVCa0m48VNTgQj2Vp3lme4schwmHk1aVIOnCFOqvcWdZnI2efLmj2uWYNY0s15glYGSK5yo2Ig1eyeUNNTO7WtY&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">p #EveryCentCoun</a>t<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/makeadifference?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUBRe3DfqgyiuyOuuziw1Pvf9vSsqCM_lNqN_9G704WJt76Mj7Vpko3Xhq2nT-_iTZON8aFzVOKQJlOqhoJb7NP-FX_iIqV7UcB4n6DXqohbVCa0m48VNTgQj2Vp3lme4schwmHk1aVIOnCFOqvcWdZnI2efLmj2uWYNY0s15glYGSK5yo2Ig1eyeUNNTO7WtY&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">s #MakeADifferen</a>c<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/siouxfallslions?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUBRe3DfqgyiuyOuuziw1Pvf9vSsqCM_lNqN_9G704WJt76Mj7Vpko3Xhq2nT-_iTZON8aFzVOKQJlOqhoJb7NP-FX_iIqV7UcB4n6DXqohbVCa0m48VNTgQj2Vp3lme4schwmHk1aVIOnCFOqvcWdZnI2efLmj2uWYNY0s15glYGSK5yo2Ig1eyeUNNTO7WtY&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">e #siouxfallslio</a>n<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/weserve?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUBRe3DfqgyiuyOuuziw1Pvf9vSsqCM_lNqN_9G704WJt76Mj7Vpko3Xhq2nT-_iTZON8aFzVOKQJlOqhoJb7NP-FX_iIqV7UcB4n6DXqohbVCa0m48VNTgQj2Vp3lme4schwmHk1aVIOnCFOqvcWdZnI2efLmj2uWYNY0s15glYGSK5yo2Ig1eyeUNNTO7WtY&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">s #WeSer</a>v<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/siouxfallslionspancakedays?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUBRe3DfqgyiuyOuuziw1Pvf9vSsqCM_lNqN_9G704WJt76Mj7Vpko3Xhq2nT-_iTZON8aFzVOKQJlOqhoJb7NP-FX_iIqV7UcB4n6DXqohbVCa0m48VNTgQj2Vp3lme4schwmHk1aVIOnCFOqvcWdZnI2efLmj2uWYNY0s15glYGSK5yo2Ig1eyeUNNTO7WtY&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">e #siouxfallslionspancakeda</a>ys

Over 7,000 Expected at 67th Lions Pancake Days April 23 & 24th

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 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

Pat Starr-From City Council to now a Candidate for School Board

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 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
<ul data-rte-list="default">
<li>
Child care
</li>
<li>
Internet Access 
</li>
<li>
Increase focus on
</li>
<ul data-rte-list="default">
<li>
Mental health 
</li>
<li>
Community resources
</li>
</ul>
</ul>
Workers
Job Training 
<ul data-rte-list="default">
<li>
Redirect resources to focus on labor and employee education and opportunities.
</li>
<li>
Encourage more labor focus grant ideas, working toward more workers rights advocacy.
</li>
</ul>
Transient &amp; Houseless Folks 
Redirect and encourage new grant ideas 
<ul data-rte-list="default">
<li>
Focus on mental health 
</li>
<li>
Housing programs 
</li>
<ul data-rte-list="default">
<li>
Vouchers
</li>
<li>
Designated areas 
</li>
<li>
Repurpose properties
</li>
</ul>
</ul>
Justice &amp; Public Safety
Reentry specific programs 
<ul data-rte-list="default">
<li>
Anti-death policy 
</li>
<li>
Decriminalize possession by ingestion  
</li>
<li>
Re Enforce policy and procedures 
</li>
<li>
Address surveillance and consequence in hit and runs
</li>
<ul data-rte-list="default">
<li>
Pedestrians 
</li>
<li>
Cyclists
</li>
<li>
Stationary motorists
</li>
</ul>
<li>
Increase focus on neighborhood empowerment
</li>
</ul>
Community Health
Securing realistic access to services
<ul data-rte-list="default">
<li>
Expansion of opportunity and outreach
</li>
<li>
Transportation
</li>
<li>
Autonomy and Healthcare navigation
</li>
<li>
Broader Grant allocation
</li>
<ul data-rte-list="default">
<li>
Tuition expenses
</li>
<li>
Internet access
</li>
</ul>
</ul>
Human Relations
Refocus on Historical Preservation 
<ul data-rte-list="default">
<li>
Community surveying and town halls
</li>
<li>
More inclusive narratives and advocacy 
</li>
<li>
Uphold South Dakota values as an adaptability effort rather than motivated by political affiliation and divisive ideology.
</li>
</ul>

Allison Renville: Hope for 10,000 Native American Voters to Have a Voice on the "Sioux" Falls Council

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 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!
<hr>
MISSION STATEMENT:
VISION STATEMENT :  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.

Lifelight in Downtown Sioux Falls and Around the World

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 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.

Stand Up for Women Veterans-Community Action for Veterans

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 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:
<ul>
<li>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.</li>
<li>Live Auction Extravaganza: Bid on exclusive items and experiences that promise thrills and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.</li>
<li>Silent  Auction: Explore a treasure trove of items up for grabs in our silent auction.</li>
<li>Support the  Boys at the Ranch: Every bid and every ticket supports the boys at the Ranch, making a difference in their lives.</li>
</ul>
Tickets: Secure your spot for only $100! Limited tickets available. <a href="https://mccrossan.org/ols/products/mccrossan-wildest-banquet-auction-in-the-midwest-tickets">Click here</a> 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 &amp; 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.

McCrossan Boys Ranch   " A Night Out in Nashville"

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 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 <a href="http://www.husetsspeedway.com/">http://www.HusetsSpeedway.com</a>.
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 <a href="http://www.husetsspeedway.com/">http://www.HusetsSpeedway.com</a>."
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.

$uper $ummer $eason for Huset's Speedway with GM Doug Johnson

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 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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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 &amp; Quail Classic on Friday, March 1st at 11am. This event is unique to National Pheasant Fest &amp; 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 &amp; 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.

Over 29,000 Expected at Pheasants Forever Festival and Banquet

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 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.<a href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-sd/about-district#_ftn1"> </a>  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.<a href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-sd/about-district#_ftn2"> </a>  The first United States Attorney for the District of South Dakota was William E. Gleason.

U.S. Attorney for Federal District of South Dakota Alison Ramsdell

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 Theresa Stehly about the upcoming Counselor and School Board election deadlines, Property taxes, Riverline District, bees, floweres and more.

Former Sioux Falls Counselor and Ombudsmen Theresa Stehly

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 Allison Morrisette, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Coordinator about a serious situation in South Dakota
from Attorney Generals press release:
<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-dakota-sd-state-wire-rapid-city-law-enforcement-agencies-missing-persons-a0009380e2e0662b99f6e5a1e19b2eaa" data-gtm-enhancement-style="LinkEnhancementA">The attorney general’s office has put a new focus</a> 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 <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/missing-in-indian-country" data-gtm-enhancement-style="LinkEnhancementA">crisis-level rates of people going missing or killed</a>. 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 href="https://apnews.com/article/missing-in-indian-country-north-america-mountains-mo-state-wire-sd-state-wire-cb6efc4ec93e4e92900ec99ccbcb7e05" data-gtm-enhancement-style="LinkEnhancementA">a decades-long crisis</a> 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.
<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-legislature-south-dakota-sd-state-wire-3acb9d17927096fd780baa288ce0b6ca" data-gtm-enhancement-style="LinkEnhancementA">The hiring delay had come</a> 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, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-philanthropy-native-americans-south-dakota-sd-state-wire-9f8236677deaf4b6384df5ebcdc6043c" data-gtm-enhancement-style="LinkEnhancementA">stepped in to fund the position</a> 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.”

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Coordinator  Allison Morrisette

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 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Phil-Hamman/e/B00IWT0CRM/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1">Phil Hamman</a> (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 <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Phil-Hamman/e/B00IWT0CRM/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1">Phil Hamman</a> (Author), <a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=dp_byline_sr_book_2?ie=UTF8&amp;field-author=Sandy+Hamman&amp;text=Sandy+Hamman&amp;sort=relevancerank&amp;search-alias=books">Sandy Hamman</a> (Author) <a>4.5 out of 5 stars </a>   <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Gitchie-Girl-Survivors-Murders-Heartland/dp/1632132001/ref=sr_1_1?crid=MRP3I4HP85AP&amp;keywords=gitchie+manitou+murders&amp;qid=1706392027&amp;sprefix=gitchie+manitou+murders%2Caps%2C265&amp;sr=8-1#customerReviews">1,159 ratings</a> 3.8 on Goodreads 1,694 ratings
<hr>
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.

Over 50 Years Now Since the Washington and Patrick Henry Murders (Gitchie Manitou)

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 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.

Sioux Falls Horror: Freezing to Death in a Parking Ramp Stairwell

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 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:
<ul>
<li>Lil Jon</li>
<li>Ginuwine</li>
<li>Chingy</li>
<li>Ying Yang Twins</li>
<li>Petey Pablo</li>
<li>Twista</li>
<li>Mike Jones</li>
</ul>
 
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 &amp; Salsa Competition
 Lucha Libre Wrestling
 AND MORE!

1st Annual Tacos and Tequila Festival-Sioux Falls Canaries Ballpark-August 17

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 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.

SD Human Trafficking Coordinator Mary Beth Holzwarth with Becky Rasmussen of Call to Freedom

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 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 &amp; 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

Seven Years of Senator Jack Kolbeck, Apropriations, SD Legislature

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 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 &amp; 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
<a href="mailto:contact@HaitiAlive.org?subject=Contact%20from%20Haiti%20Alive%20Website">contact@HaitiAlive.org</a> <a href="tel:+16057705156">605-770-5156</a>
1035 N Spencer Ln Tea, SD 57064
EIN: 46-4179487

From Tea, SD to Haiti...It's Not My Problem, Or is It

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 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. &amp; 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. &amp; 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 27 Texas Roadhouse (4307 W. Empire Pl.) between 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. &amp; 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. &amp; 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 &amp; 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. &amp; 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 &amp; 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 Bank Dawley 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.

Heroes Behind The Badges are out for Blood (Community Blood Bank)

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.

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.

The Forgotten Hatred: Anti-Catholicism in Sioux Falls and 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

Pubblic Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Eric "Pineapple" Weber, Chief Executive Officer, and Administrative Assistant &amp; 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
<ul>
<li>UGM Chapel and meal servicemen’s center – 220 n weber avenue</li>
<li>UGM toy and clothing distribution main office – 701 E 8th street</li>
</ul>
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.
 
<ul>
<li>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. </li>
<li>We offer three wholesome meals daily for men who spend the night at the Mission and attend chapel service.</li>
<li>Basic medical care is provided by our on-site health clinic.</li>
<li>Clean showers and personal-hygiene items are provided.</li>
<li>Case management care is available to connect men with social services and resources for housing and employment.</li>
</ul>
Contact us to learn more about program opportunities.
<a href="https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Union-Gospel-Mission-Sioux-Falls">We're Hiring  </a>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.
 
<ul>
<li>Shelter beds are located in the clean and substance-free environment of our Women’s Center with capabilities as needed during extreme weather conditions. </li>
<li>We offer three wholesome meals daily for men who spend the night at the Mission and attend chapel service.</li>
<li>Basic medical care is provided weekly by our on-site health clinic.</li>
<li>Clean showers and personal-hygiene items are provided.</li>
<li>Case management care is available to connect women, children and families with social services and resources for housing and employment.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://ugmsiouxfalls.com/contact/">Let's Connect</a>Love 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

124 Years of Sioux Falls Community - Union Gospel Mission

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 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.

KELO-FM & KTWB Radiothon for Children's Miracle Network

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) talks with Erin Brown, Director of the South Dakota Veteran's Cemetery north of Sioux Falls.
from their website:
<ul></ul>
 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 <a href="https://vetaffairs.sd.gov/veteranscemetery/18088%20-%20Phasing%20Plan_No%20Logo.pdf">Click here to view the phasing plan for the cemetery.</a> South Dakota Veterans Cemetery - Wreaths Acoss America <a href="https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/170934">Click here to learn more about the program and the South Dakota event.</a>

South Dakota Veterans Cemetery

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) 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

Pearl Harbor Day 12/7 Never Again....My Interview With Bataan Death March Survivor

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.

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. 
<hr>
 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.).
<ul>
<li>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. </li>
<li>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.</li>
</ul>
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 &amp; 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:
<ul>
<li>financial counseling and planning</li>
<li>goal setting with manageable action steps</li>
<li>job training, referrals and employment assistance</li>
<li>assistance with securing housing and childcare</li>
<li>emotional and spiritual support </li>
</ul>
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.

$300,000  Kettle Goal for Sioux Falls Salvation Army in Full Swing

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.

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 <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lead_ship">lead vessel</a> of the four <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Dakota-class_battleship_(1939)">South Dakota-class</a> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fast_battleship">fast battleships</a> built for the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Navy">United States Navy</a> in the 1930s. The first American battleships designed after the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Naval_Treaty">Washington treaty system</a> 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 <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Displacement_(ship)">displacement</a> 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 <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_II">World War II</a>; immediately upon entering service in mid-1942, she was sent to the south Pacific to reinforce Allied forces waging the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guadalcanal_campaign">Guadalcanal campaign</a>. The ship was damaged in an accidental <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ship_grounding">grounding</a> on an uncharted reef, but after completing repairs she returned to the front, taking part in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Santa_Cruz_Islands">Battle of Santa Cruz</a> in October and the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Naval_Battle_of_Guadalcanal">Second Naval Battle of Guadalcanal</a> 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 <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Superstructure">superstructure</a> 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 <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Home_Fleet">Home Fleet</a>, tasked with protecting <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convoy">convoys</a> to the Soviet Union.
In mid-1943, the ship was transferred back to the Pacific, where she primarily operated with the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fast_carrier_task_force">fast carrier task force</a>, contributing her heavy anti-aircraft armament to its defense. In this capacity, she took part in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gilbert_and_Marshall_Islands_campaign">Gilbert and Marshall Islands campaign</a> in late 1943 and early 1944, the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mariana_and_Palau_Islands_campaign">Mariana and Palau Islands campaign</a> in mid-1944, and the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippines_campaign_(1944%E2%80%931945)">Philippines campaign</a> later that year. In 1945, she participated in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Iwo_Jima">Battles of Iwo Jima</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Okinawa">Okinawa</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allied_naval_bombardments_of_Japan_during_World_War_II">bombarded Japan</a> 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 <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philadelphia_Naval_Shipyard">Philadelphia Naval Shipyard</a>, where she was <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laid_up">laid up</a> in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Navy_reserve_fleets">Atlantic Reserve Fleet</a> until 1962, when she was sold for <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scrap">scrap</a>.

U.S.S. South Dakota (Battleship X) Sgt. Shriver Dir of Peace Corp

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 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.

Steve Rosenthal Talks About 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 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:
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEcqK5mUqpk" data-ved="2ahUKEwir8bn-vY-CAxU4g4kEHdJNDdw4FBAWegQICxAB">Mogen's Heroes - Live in the Roofgarden!</a>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEcqK5mUqpk">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEcqK5mUqpk</a>

Mogen's Heroes  45th  Anniversary Party  Nov 4th  DT Holiday Inn

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 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 <a href="https://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/" data-overlay-msg="AARP.Everywhere.LeavingModal.drawOverlay(this,'',/content/aarpe/en/home/what-we-do.html,'','You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.');return false;">www.aarp.org/about-aarp/</a>, <a href="https://www.aarp.org/espanol/conoce-aarp/" data-overlay-msg="AARP.Everywhere.LeavingModal.drawOverlay(this,'',/content/aarpe/en/home/what-we-do.html,'','You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.');return false;">www.aarp.org/español</a> or follow <a href="https://twitter.com/AARP" data-overlay-msg="AARP.Everywhere.LeavingModal.drawOverlay(this,'',/content/aarpe/en/home/what-we-do.html,'','You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.');return false;">@AARP</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpenespanol?lang=en" data-overlay-msg="AARP.Everywhere.LeavingModal.drawOverlay(this,'',/content/aarpe/en/home/what-we-do.html,'','You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.');return false;">@AARPenEspañol</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPadvocates" data-overlay-msg="AARP.Everywhere.LeavingModal.drawOverlay(this,'',/content/aarpe/en/home/what-we-do.html,'','You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.');return false;">@AARPadvocates</a> 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<a href="https://www.aarp.org/health/medicare-insurance/"> protect Medicare</a>,<a href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/advocacy/aarp-fights-for-your-health//"> expand access to health care</a>,<a href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/advocacy/prescription-drugs/"> lower prescription drug prices</a>,<a href="https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/"> support caregivers</a> and<a href="https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/nursing-homes/"> protect nursing home residents</a>. On financial stability, we fight to<a href="https://www.aarp.org/retirement/social-security/"> protect Social Security</a>,<a href="https://www.aarp.org/ppi/state-retirement-plans/"> establish savings plans for workers</a> and<a href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/"> stop scams and fraud</a>. We also work to<a href="https://www.aarp.org/work/working-at-50-plus/age-discrimination/"> combat age discrimination in the workplace</a> and speak up for the vulnerable and underrepresented on issues like<a href="https://www.aarp.org/aarp-foundation/our-work/housing/"> affordable housing</a> 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
<ul>
<li>Lowering prescription drug prices: We helped to lower prescription drug prices by <a href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/advocacy/info-2022/medicare-budget-proposal.html">empowering Medicare to negotiate prices of certain drugs</a>, to <a href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/advocacy/info-2022/medicare-part-d-changes.html">cap out-of-pocket costs</a> for Medicare Part D beneficiaries and to impose tax penalties for drugmakers that increase prices faster than inflation.</li>
<li>Adding a prescription drug benefit to Medicare: In 2003, AARP worked with the George W. Bush administration to create <a href="https://www.aarp.org/health/health-insurance/info-2017/medicare-part-d-fd.html">Medicare Part D,</a> 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.</li>
<li>Providing Medicare coverage for telemedicine: During the COVID-19 pandemic AARP called on <a href="https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2020/benefits-telehealth-medicare.html">Medicare to expand coverage of telemedicine</a> and for increased tax credits for health insurance premiums under the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/health/health-insurance/info-2021/aca-enrollment-checklist.html">Affordable Care Act</a>.</li>
<li>Bringing low-cost hearing aids to market: We successfully pushed for the authorization<a href="https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2022/fda-over-the-counter-hearing-aids.html"> of over-the-counter hearing aids</a>, an affordable and convenient solution for millions of Americans experiencing moderate hearing loss.</li>
<li>Protecting people with preexisting health conditions: AARP supported passage of the<a href="https://www.aarp.org/health/health-insurance/info-2014/affordable-care-act-qa.html"> 2010 Affordable Care Act</a>, which expanded health insurance access, prevented a costly “age tax” to purchase insurance, and required insurers to cover people with pre-existing conditions.</li>
<li>Helping families care for loved ones: AARP supported the 1993<a href="https://www.aarp.org/home-family/friends-family/info-2018/fmla-turns-25-fd.html"> Family and Medical Leave Act</a>, which provides unpaid leave to employees for care of a family member or to take care of their own health.</li>
</ul>
Fighting for Financial Security
<ul>
<li>Preventing Social Security privatization: AARP fought against turning Social Security into risky private accounts and to ensure Social Security remained an earned guaranteed benefit.</li>
<li>Protecting Social Security COLAs: AARP fought against efforts by both parties to reduce cost-of-living adjustments for Social Security, <a href="https://www.aarp.org/retirement/social-security/questions-answers/social-security-calculate-cola.html">which are especially critical when prices are rising</a>.</li>
<li>Expanding and protecting pensions: We advocated for expanded opportunities for workplace retirement savings, including for <a href="https://www.aarp.org/retirement/planning-for-retirement/info-2020/asset-strategy-for-secure-act.html">part-time workers</a>, and to protect pension benefits that workers have earned.</li>
<li>Protecting the medical expense deduction: AARP fought <a href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/advocacy/info-2019/medical-expense-deductions.html">to protect the medical expense tax deduction</a> to provide some measure of financial help for those with high health care expenses.</li>
</ul>
Fighting to Protect Consumers
<ul>
<li>Protecting consumers from telemarketers: AARP supported the rollout of the<a href="https://www.aarp.org/money/budgeting-saving/info-07-2012/when-do-not-call-means-they-still-can.html"> National Do Not Call Registry</a> in 2003.</li>
<li>Protecting older workers from discrimination: AARP worked diligently to ensure passage of the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/work/on-the-job/info-2017/age-discrimination-facts.html">Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 and the Older Workers Benefit Protection Act in 1990</a>, which protect workers 40 and older from age discrimination in the workplace.</li>
</ul>
AARP also has a long history of <a href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/">nonpartisan voter engagement</a>. As a nonpartisan organization, we don’t support or contribute to political candidates, parties or campaigns — and never have.

AARP...100,000 Members Strong  in South Dakota

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 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:
<ul>
<li>CASA Volunteers must be at least 21 years of age.</li>
<li>CASA Volunteers must have the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.</li>
<li>CASA Volunteers must possess mature judgement, a high degree of responsibility, and sufficient time to advocate for the best interest of the child.</li>
<li>CASA Volunteers must be able to relate to persons of different cultures, backgrounds, and socioeconomic statuses.</li>
</ul>
Other Ways You Can Help: 
<ul>
<li>Host a CASA 101 for friends, family, or co-workers</li>
<li>Connect CASA with your civic organization, social club, church community, or business</li>
<li>Share today's social media post</li>
<li>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
</li>
</ul>

Court Appointed Special Advocacy-More Heroes are Needed

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 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
<hr>

The Bishop Dudley Hospitality House -Fulfilling a Need Since 2015

10,000 People Expected at 8th Annual Siouxpercon at Convention Center

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 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. 
<ul>
<li>Andrew Haiar – Mitchell, South Dakota</li>
<li>Zachery Keith – Mitchell, South Dakota</li>
<li>Thomas Kosinski – Elk Point, South Dakota</li>
<li>Kristopher Moke – Mitchell, South Dakota</li>
<li>Brothers: Justin and Jen Scheff – Montrose, South Dakota</li>
<li>Cory Lauren Stager -  Ipswich, South Dakota</li>
<li>Koby Syverson – Volin, South Dakota</li>
<li>Seth Tarbox – Clark, South Dakota</li>
</ul>
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 <a href="tel:605-233-0331" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">605-233-0331</a> or log onto <a href="http://www.pdryouthhunt.com/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1">www.pdryouthhunt.com</a>.

15th Annual PDR Deer Hunt in Clark SD with Dean Rasmussen

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 Olivia Essig, Sioux Empire United Way Campaign Director about the kick-off of the 2024 campaign.
from their website: <a href="https://www.seuw.org/">https://www.seuw.org/</a>
2024 Campaign Kickoff Week<a></a>
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 <a href="https://www.firstpremier.com/">First PREMIER Bank/Bankcard</a> and <a href="https://www.scooterscoffee.com/">Scooter's Coffee</a> 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 <a href="https://www.thebarrelhousesd.com/">The Barrel House</a> to support SEUW. On Monday, September 18, The Barrell 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 <a href="https://www.seuw.org/kickoff">Nyberg's Ace</a>. 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 <a href="https://www.flyboydonuts.com/">Flyboy Donuts</a> 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 &amp; Girls Club of the Sioux Empire. <a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c094eadac2aabfec34-test#/">RSVP online!</a>
Thursday, September 21
SEUW is partnering with <a href="https://severancebeer.com/">Severance Brewing Company</a> 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, <a href="https://www.firstinterstatebank.com/">First Interstate Bank</a> for making this community meal possible. Lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m to 1:30 p.m. outdoors in the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Paladino+Hohm+Sculpture+Garden/@43.5445272,-96.7289486,15z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x878eb597ee126afb:0x52d53b3a233c7844!8m2!3d43.5445272!4d-96.7289486!16s%2Fg%2F11d_tv36w_?entry=ttu">Paladino Hohm Sculpture Garden</a>, 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 <a href="https://www.scheels.com/store?StoreID=048">Scheels</a> 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 &amp; craft supplies. All donations must be NEW. We CANNOT ACCEPT items like clothing, snacks, diapers, etc... 
Funded Agencies<a></a>
Click on an agency name below to learn more about their programs funded through Sioux Empire United Way. <a href="https://www.seuw.org/sites/seuw/files/2023-07/2024%20Agency%20List%20RVSD%208.4.23.pdf">Click here</a> for a printable list.  
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/ActiveGenerations">Active Generations</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/Augustana">Augustana University</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/AveraMcKennanChildrensPrograms">Avera McKennan Children's Programs</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/BoyScouts">Boy Scouts of America, Sioux Council</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/BoysGirlsCluboftheSiouxEmpire">Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/ChildrensInn">Children’s Home Shelter for Family Safety</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/CommunityOutreach">The Community Outreach</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/CompassCenter">The Compass Center</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/ConnectingKids">Connecting Kids</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/DakotAbilities">DakotAbilities</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/DeltaDental">Delta Dental of South Dakota</a>
<a href="https://www.seuw.org/dolly-partons-imagination-library">Dolly Parton's Imagination Library</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/FamilyConnection">Family Connection</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/FamilyService">Family Service Inc.</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/FurnitureMission">Furniture Mission of South Dakota</a>
<a href="https://www.seuw.org/glory-house">Glory House</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/HelplineCenter">Helpline Center</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/HorsePower">HorsePower</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/InterLakesCommunityActionPartnership">Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/KIDSTOP">KIDSTOP</a>
<a href="https://www.seuw.org/lost-found">Lost &amp; Found</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/LutheranSocialServices">Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota</a>
<a href="https://www.seuw.org/project-car">Project Car</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/REACH">REACH</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/ReadytoStart">Ready to Start</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/SadIsntBad">Sad Isn't Bad</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/SanfordChildrens">Sanford Children's</a>
<a href="https://www.seuw.org/save-life-community-aeds">Save a Life - Community AEDs</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/SiouxFallsAreaCASAProgram">Sioux Falls Area CASA Program</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/SiouxFallsFamilyYMCA">Sioux Falls Family YMCA</a>
<a href="https://www.seuw.org/sioux-falls-hope-coalition">Sioux Falls Hope Coalition</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/SiouxFallsSchoolDistrict">Sioux Falls School District</a>
<a href="https://www.seuw.org/sioux-falls-thrive">Sioux Falls Thrive</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/StFrancisHouse">St. Francis House</a>
<a href="https://www.seuw.org/toy-lending-library">Toy Lending Library</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/USDScottishRite">USD Scottish Rite Children’s Clinic for Speech and Language Disorders</a>
<a href="http://www.seuw.org/VolunteersofAmericaDakotas">Volunteers of America, Dakotas</a>
Sioux Empire United Way addresses many needs across the community. Needs that are ever present. 
<ul>
<li>84% of Sioux Falls school-aged children live in households where all parents work outside the home.</li>
<li>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.</li>
<li>In South Dakota, 54% of adults in need of mental health services do not receive counseling or other types of treatment.</li>
</ul>
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:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.seuw.org/our-impact#tabvbp-tab-264-0" aria-controls="vbp-tab-264" data-toggle="tab">Helping Children</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.seuw.org/our-impact#tabvbp-tab-264-1" aria-controls="vbp-tab-264" data-toggle="tab">Helping Vulnerable Adults</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.seuw.org/our-impact#tabvbp-tab-264-2" aria-controls="vbp-tab-264" data-toggle="tab">Helping People in Crisis</a></li>
</ul>
Quality Childcare &amp; 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 &amp; Development Opportunities 1,455 youth are matched with a mentor through three programs.
Physical &amp; Mental Wellbeing 466 children receive mental health care services directly at their schools.

Sioux Empire United Way-75 Agencies-33 Communities-4 Counties

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 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 &amp; 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.

An American Legion of POW/MIA Ceremonies to Cemeteries

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 (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 <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chief_marketing_officer">chief marketing officer</a> of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eastman_Kodak_Company">Eastman Kodak Company</a> from 2006-2010.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-2">[2]</a> In 2014 he became the CEO of The Hayzlett Group.
Early life[<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett&amp;action=edit&amp;section=1&amp;editintro=Template:BLP_editintro">edit</a>]
Hayzlett graduated from Douglas High School in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Box_Elder,_South_Dakota">Box Elder, South Dakota</a> in 1979. He then studied government and international affairs at <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Augustana_College_(South_Dakota)">Augustana College</a>, a private college in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sioux_Falls,_South_Dakota">Sioux Falls</a>. He was a member of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pi_Sigma_Epsilon">Pi Sigma Epsilon</a>.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-3">[3]</a>
Career[<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett&amp;action=edit&amp;section=2&amp;editintro=Template:BLP_editintro">edit</a>]
Hayzlett joined Kodak in April 2006 as chief marketing officer and vice president of the company's Graphic Communications Group.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-4">[4]</a>
Beginning in 2007, Hayzlett was a guest celebrity judge on NBC’s <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Celebrity_Apprentice">Celebrity Apprentice</a> for three seasons.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-5">[5]</a>
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.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-6">[6]</a>
In May 2010, Jeff Hayzlett released a book entitled The Mirror Test: Is Your Business Really Breathing?<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-Forbes-1">[1]</a> 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.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-7">[7]</a>
Hayzlett has hosted C-Suite with Jeffrey Hayzlett and Executive Perspectives on C-Suite TV since 2015.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-8">[8]</a>
Hayzlett has also hosted All Business with Jeffrey Hayzlett, a business podcast which airs on C-Suite Radio, since 2015.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-9">[9]</a>
C-Suite with Jeffrey Hayzlett[<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett&amp;action=edit&amp;section=3&amp;editintro=Template:BLP_editintro">edit</a>]<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:C-Suite_with_Jeffrey_Hayzlett_Cadillac.png"></a>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.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-Weinstein2015-10">[10]</a> It features an inside look at major companies and brands.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-11">[11]</a> 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.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-12">[12]</a> 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.,<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-13">[13]</a> U-T San Diego,<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-14">[14]</a> Business Marketing Association,<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-15">[15]</a> and a number of other websites.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_W._Hayzlett#cite_note-16">[16]</a>

Jeff Hayzlett-What You CAN Do From A Small Town

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 talks to Jeff Gould (America's Storyteller) and Bob Uecker (Producer of America's Story) about their living the American Dream.
from their website: <a href="https://www.ilikethatstory.net/americas-story/">https://www.ilikethatstory.net/americas-story/ </a>
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.

America's Story -- Jeff Gould and Bob Uecker

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 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 VALUES<a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/">Home</a> &gt; <a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/About">About</a> &gt; 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.
<hr>
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 <a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/humane-law-enforcement">humane officers</a> outside Sioux Falls city limits, <a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/microchip">public low-cost microchipping</a>, <a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/petfoodbank">community pet food bank</a>, and a <a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/tips">reference library for pet tips</a>. We are proud to host many amazing <a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/calendar">events</a> throughout the year, provide <a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/tours">tours</a> and give the opportunity for <a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/aboutservicegroups">service groups</a>, and are continually amazed by the generous individuals to <a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/donate-online">donate</a> to our shelter every day. We are blessed to have a community that supports our mission through <a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/donate-online">monetary donations</a>, <a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/applytoadopt">adoptions</a>, food and <a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/wish-list">wishlist</a> donations, as well as <a href="https://www.sfhumanesociety.com/volunteer">volunteering</a> 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.

8,000 Animals Every Year--The Sioux Falls Area Humane Society

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 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 &amp; 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!!

Lifelight Festival is Back and it is Downtown Sioux Falls Sept. 3

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 (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.

PACT Act Benefits/VA Healthcare Drive Aug. 8 - Armory at Alliance

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 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.

Sioux Falls Human Trafficking...from Interpol to Ukraine

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 (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

Flandreau Farmer Helping Kids in Nicaragua "Round First Base"

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 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.

All About End-of-Life Hospice with Sanford-Good Samaritan

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 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 &amp; 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.

Sioux Falls Human Trafficking Survivor Speaks Out

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 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 &amp; 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

The (Free) Sioux Falls Air Show...Power On The Prairie  July 29-30

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

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

Ken Alvine on Sioux Falls's  Chris  Browne (Hagar the Horrible)

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks to Pastor Jeff Hayes of the Faith Temple Church in Sioux Falls about the need for food in Sioux Falls.

their Mission Statement from their website:

Our mission is simple; We want to help end hunger in South Dakota.

We believe that we are called to carry out what Jesus

said in Matthew 25:35-40.

"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'"

Volunteer

Every Friday, over 75 volunteers are needed to feed the thousands of people who physically come to the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds. Whether it's an individual, family, workgroup, or service project... You are valued! ​

Simply come to the Nordstrom-Johnson Building on Fridays at 3 pm, and we will find a job for you. Our volunteer time slot is from 3-6 pm each Friday!

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks to Pastor Jeff Hayes of the Faith Temple Church in Sioux Falls about the need for food in Sioux Falls.
their Mission Statement from their website:
Our mission is simple; We want to help end hunger in South Dakota.
We believe that we are called to carry out what Jesus
said in Matthew 25:35-40.
"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'"
Volunteer
Every Friday, over 75 volunteers are needed to feed the thousands of people who physically come to the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds. Whether it's an individual, family, workgroup, or service project... You are valued! ​
Simply come to the Nordstrom-Johnson Building on Fridays at 3 pm, and we will find a job for you. Our volunteer time slot is from 3-6 pm each Friday!

Faith Temple's Food Giveaway to Thousands of Hungry People

Public Affairs Director, Jon Michaels (since 1977), talks Donn Hill and David Jai about life in Sudan then and now.  The Khor Wakow Project is sponsored by area Churches and service organizations to help children and families in Sudan.  

Public Affairs Director, Jon Michaels (since 1977), talks Donn Hill and David Jai about life in Sudan then and now.  The Khor Wakow Project is sponsored by area Churches and service organizations to help children and families in Sudan.

Lost boys  of Sudan in Sioux Falls: The Khor Wakow Project

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Sheri Nelson, Executive Director of NAMI South Dakota about mental health care in Sioux Falls

from their website: https://namisouthdakota.org

The families and members of NAMI South Dakota are here to help! We offer understanding to anyone concerned about mental illnesses. We believe recovery is not an event, but a journey. In addition, we promote person-centered treatment and wellness activities that enhance health and well-being. You are not alone, and there is hope.

Mission

The mission of NAMI South Dakota is to provide education, support and advocacy for families and individuals affected by mental illness. We accomplish this through the dedication of our many members, volunteers, and donors. THANK YOU!

Our Goals
Advocate at the community, state and national levels for non-discriminatory access to quality healthcare, housing , education and employment for people with mental illness.
Educate the public about mental illness.
Work to eliminate the stigma of mental illness.
Advocate for increased funding for research into the causes and treatment of mental illness.
Provide compassionate support and helpful education to people living with mental illness and their families and loved ones.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Sheri Nelson, Executive Director of NAMI South Dakota about mental health care in Sioux Falls
from their website: <a href="https://namisouthdakota.org">https://namisouthdakota.org</a>
The families and members of NAMI South Dakota are here to help! We offer understanding to anyone concerned about mental illnesses. We believe recovery is not an event, but a journey. In addition, we promote person-centered treatment and wellness activities that enhance health and well-being. You are not alone, and there is hope.
Mission
The mission of NAMI South Dakota is to provide education, support and advocacy for families and individuals affected by mental illness. We accomplish this through the dedication of our many members, volunteers, and donors. THANK YOU!
Our Goals
<ul>
<li>Advocate at the community, state and national levels for non-discriminatory access to quality healthcare, housing , education and employment for people with mental illness.</li>
<li>Educate the public about mental illness.</li>
<li>Work to eliminate the stigma of mental illness.</li>
<li>Advocate for increased funding for research into the causes and treatment of mental illness.</li>
<li>Provide compassionate support and helpful education to people living with mental illness and their families and loved ones.</li>
</ul>

Homeless and Mental Health Care in Sioux Falls (NAMI South Dakota)

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Dick Murphey about their store of 26 years closing at the end of this month. Dick talks about the stores history and legacy as he watched downtown Sioux Falls change to what it is now.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Dick Murphey about their store of 26 years closing at the end of this month. Dick talks about the stores history and legacy as he watched downtown Sioux Falls change to what it is now.

Jon Michaels' Forum

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