Madison High School is taking proactive steps to ensure student safety at this year’s prom by implementing breathalyzer tests. Principal Adam Shaw explains that the initiative, approved by the School Board, aims to reduce the likelihood of students drinking during the event.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol will be conducting sobriety checkpoints across 15 counties throughout March in an effort to combat impaired driving. These checkpoints, coordinated with other law enforcement agencies, will take place in counties including Codington, Lawrence, Minnehaha, Pennington, and more.
The South Dakota Transportation Commission is making a significant investment in the state’s infrastructure by awarding 17 Bridge Improvement Grants for preservation, rehabilitation, and replacement projects. Among the recipients are the city of Sioux Falls and several counties, including Aurora, Codington, Lawrence, Minnehaha, and Pennington. At a recent meeting in Pierre, approximately $80 million was approved for these critical bridge projects, ensuring safer travel and the continued maintenance of vital transportation routes across South Dakota.
This week, several veterans groups are joining forces to honor the sacrifices of prisoners of war. Tomorrow at noon, they will unveil a poignant “Missing Man Table” display at the Capitol Lake Visitor’s Center. The display, situated near other war memorials, serves as a solemn tribute to those who endured captivity and the families who continue to wait for their return. This meaningful event highlights the bravery and sacrifice of prisoners of war, ensuring their memory is preserved for generations to come.
South Dakota has introduced a new law aimed at protecting minors from harmful online content. Governor Rhoden recently signed House Bill 10-53, which mandates age verification for adult websites. The bill defines “covered platforms” as websites that create, host, or distribute material potentially harmful to minors. As a result, these platforms will now be required to implement strict age verification policies to ensure that users are of legal age before accessing adult content. This new legislation is a significant step in regulating online safety and protecting young users from inappropriate material.
Authorities say Patrick Anderson is accused of having unwanted sexual contact with four victims between April and August of last year. All of the victims are adults.
The Mitchell City Council is considering adding $1.1 million to the 2025 budget for upgrades at Hitchcock Park, including new lights, improved pathways, and new tennis courts.
Mitchell leaders are focusing on attracting more visitors and encouraging longer stays as summer approaches. Officials from Travel South Dakota say tourism in 2024 brought $115 million to the area, supporting 1,600 jobs.
Davison and Hanson county commissions have approved creating an ambulance district to provide better coverage across 900+ square miles around Mitchell.
The Mitchell City Council approved the purchase of new seats for the Corn Palace but postponed the decision on their color.