Northeast Radio SD: On-Demand Local Listen

In this episode, we sit down with Robert "Fidel" Fuller and Cheryl Fuller of Fox Lake Furs to pull back the curtain on the world of South Dakota trapping. From the biological necessity of population control to the surprising role of skunk spray in high-end perfumes, the Fullers share how this historic trade remains essential in the 21st century.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
The "Carrying Capacity": Why trapping is a vital tool for preventing disease outbreaks like rabies and parvo.
A "Dying Art": Robert’s mission to mentor youth and why the average age of trappers is a concern for the industry.
From Field to Fashion: The process of skinning, tanning, and sewing fur, and why real fur is the ultimate "green" biodegradable choice.
The Business of Fur: How Fox Lake Furs works with local hunters and the South Dakota Trappers Association to keep traditions alive.
The "Coonpecker" Contest: A look at the unique local traditions in Twin Brooks and the utilization of every part of the animal.
Guest Info: Robert and Cheryl Fuller operate Fox Lake Furs. Robert is a life member of the South Dakota Trappers Association. For those interested in hides, fur products, or learning more about trapping, Robert can be reached via Facebook (Robert W. Fuller).
Resources Mentioned:
South Dakota Trappers Association (Facebook)
National Trappers Association
Game, Fish & Parks (South Dakota) https://www.facebook.com/sdgfp 
https://www.facebook.com/robert.w.fuller.3
 
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
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Local Leaders, Resilience, and Community Impact in Northeast South Dakota
In this episode of the Northeast Radio SD news wrap-up, we highlight a series of stories that define the spirit of our region—from national legislative victories to local acts of heroism and heart. We cover major milestones for Watertown’s medical and business communities, critical safety updates for outdoor enthusiasts, and the enduring legacy of a local hockey icon.
In This Episode:
HR Excellence at Persona Triangle: We celebrate Amber Dahl, Vice President of Human Resources at Persona Triangle, who has been named the 2025 Northeast South Dakota SHRM HR Professional of the Year. Dahl, an 11-year veteran of the company, shares the credit with her dedicated team.
A Medical Victory for Miriam Koska: The six-year-old and her family saw a “record-breaking” result during a recent stem cell harvest. While Miriam continues her fight with a third round of chemotherapy, we have details on an upcoming benefit on January 16th to support the family.
National Defense & Sacred Land: Senator Mike Rounds discusses the signing of the $900.6 billion National Defense Authorization Act, which brings significant infrastructure investment to the Watertown Army National Guard and Ellsworth Air Force Base. Plus, we look at the historic protection of the Wounded Knee Massacre Memorial site.
Ice Safety Warning: The Big Stone County Sheriff’s Office issues an urgent plea for caution after two ATVs fell through the ice on Big Stone Lake. We identify the specific hazard zones to avoid as high winds and snow move into the area.
Election News: Senator Glenn Vilhauer officially announces his bid for re-election to the District 5 seat. We review his first-term focus on education and his background in the Watertown City Council.
Continuing a Hockey Legacy: The Watertown Hockey Association honors the late Chris Rieb. Through a $2,500 donation from the Christopher Rieb Memorial Fund, the “Learn to Play” program is ensuring the next generation of skaters is ready for the ice.
Community Resources & Links:
Donate to the Koska Family Benefit: Find auction and donation links at NortheastRadioSD.com.
Ice Safety Updates: Monitor the Big Stone County Sheriff’s Office social media for real-time hazard alerts.
Legislative Cracker Barrel: Tune in live January 6th from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM on the Northeast Radio SD app, Facebook, YouTube, or LinkedIn.
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
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The holidays may be wrapping up, but the ice is just getting started! This week, we welcome Taylor Johnson, the driving force behind the Watertown Figure Skate Club. Taylor shares how a small-town club is making a big-time splash at national competitions across the country. We also discuss why you're never too old (or too young) to start, with programs ranging from 2.5-year-old "Ice Explorers" to adult competitive classes.
Key Moments:
[02:15] Winter "Learn to Skate" registration details.
[05:30] The "Snowpaw Sam" curriculum: How kids learn to fall and get back up.
[09:45] National Dreams: Taking Watertown skaters to Michigan, California, and Massachusetts.
[14:20] Theater on Ice: Broadway meets the rink with pirate ships and "Descendants" characters.
[18:50] Edge Work: Why hockey players are turning to figure skating coaches for more speed.
[22:10] Taylor’s professional background: From training with Scott Hamilton to performing in Las Vegas.
Connect with our Guest: Visit watertownfigureskateclub.com to learn about memberships, volunteering, or signing up for the winter session.
https://www.facebook.com/WatertownFigureSkatingClubWatertownSd 
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
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In today’s episode, we cover the finalization of 2026 labor agreements for Codington County’s law enforcement, a heart-warming milestone for a local holiday tradition, and the opening of winter sports registrations. We also take a look at regional health data and significant updates from the Department of Justice.
In This Episode:
Codington County Labor Agreements: The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved 2026 union contracts for the Teamsters Local Union 120 and the Deputy Sheriff’s Association. We break down the new wage scale, the 2.6% cost-of-living adjustment, and the transition to the 2026 Sanford Health Plan.
14 Years of Comfort: The Watertown Rotary Club and Slumberland Furniture have teamed up once again for the "Home for the Holidays" initiative, delivering 25 brand-new beds to local families in need. Learn how this partnership with local nonprofits continues to impact housing security in our community.
Registration Alert: The Watertown Figure Skate Club’s "Learn to Skate USA" winter session is now open. From toddlers to advanced hockey power skating at the Prairie Lakes Ice Arena, find out what you need to know before the December 26 deadline.
State Health Update: Influenza activity remains lower than historical averages in South Dakota. We look at the latest numbers from the Department of Health as the 2025-26 season progresses.
Justice Department Crackdown: Details on "Operation Relentless Justice," a nationwide effort that led to nearly 300 arrests, including a high-profile case involving a repeat offender in South Dakota.
Federal Sentencing: A Jamaican national receives over five years in prison for a sweepstakes scam that defrauded an elderly victim, involving a local connection right here in South Dakota.
Stay Connected: Subscribe to Northeast Radio SD on Apple Podcasts for your daily dose of community news, business updates, and human interest stories. For more local coverage, visit our website or download the Northeast Radio SD app.
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!
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In this new recap, we cover a significant legislative push in D.C. to lower healthcare costs and a major federal investment in South Dakota’s defense infrastructure. Locally, we look at a multi-month narcotics bust by the Watertown Police Department and a trial date set for a high-profile felony case. Finally, we provide updates on county road safety, bridge construction, and a statewide settlement involving deceptive retail marketing.
Show Notes
[00:00] Healthcare Reform: The Lower Health Care Premiums Act Representative Dusty Johnson joined the House in passing the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act.
 
The Goal: Combat insurance costs projected to rise 26% next year.
 
Key Impacts: A projected 11% reduction in premiums and increased transparency for Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) to expose hidden drug charges.
 
Support for Workers: New options for small businesses and independent workers to band together for better group rates.
 
[04:20] Defense Spending: The 2026 NDAA The U.S. Senate has passed the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, a $901 billion package with major wins for South Dakota:
Watertown: $28 million authorized for a new Army National Guard vehicle maintenance shop.
 
Ellsworth AFB: $378 million for construction to support the B-21 Raider program.
 
Service Members: A 3.8% pay raise for all military personnel.
 
Policy Shifts: Senator Mike Rounds helped author provisions requiring merit-based promotions and repealing DEI offices within the Pentagon.
[09:15] Local Crime: Narcotics Investigation & Arrests A multi-month investigation by the Watertown Police Department into illegal narcotics distribution has led to the arrest of four men: Terance Block, James Chase, Jacob Martinez, and Steven Jackson.
The Focus: Sales of controlled substances to high school-aged juveniles.
 
Charges: Distribution of controlled drugs and possession with intent to distribute to minors. All four remain at the Coddington County Detention Center on cash bonds.
[12:45] Legal Update: Dolney Trial Set A February 12, 2026, trial date has been set for Dustin John Dolney, 43, following a September 2025 investigation. Dolney faces felony charges including third-degree rape and manufacture/possession of child pornography. He has pleaded not guilty and remains free on a $20,000 bond with strict no-contact conditions.
 
[16:30] Infrastructure: Coddington County Road & Bridge Report Highway Superintendent Randy Falvey provided a Tuesday update on seasonal safety and local projects:
14th Ave. Bridge: Work is progressing on water diversion, though Falvey noted a recent hit-and-run that destroyed a barricade.
 
2026 Planning: Rehabilitation work is being planned for County Roads 7 and 10.
 
Snow Removal Reminder: Falvey issued a warning against plowing snow across roadways, noting that violations can result in fines up to $100 plus clearing fees.
[20:10] Consumer Protection: Menards Settlement Attorney General Marty Jackley announced that South Dakota will receive over $102,000 as part of a settlement with Menards.
The Issue: Allegations of deceptive marketing regarding their "11% rebate" program.
 
The Findings: The 11% was not a point-of-purchase discount but rather store credit for future use.
 
The Outcome: Menards must now clearly disclose terms, improve online tracking, and allow consumers at least one year to submit claims.
Key Takeaways
Financial Relief: Legislation aims to lower premiums by 11% and settle deceptive marketing claims for SD consumers.
 
Local Investment: $28 million is headed to Watertown for National Guard infrastructure.
 
Safety & Law: Local police continue to target distribution to minors, while the county highway department prepares for winter maintenance and bridge repairs.
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
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We cover a powerful story of community support in Watertown, a razor-thin school district vote, serious legal developments in Codington County, and a new report raising alarms about South Dakota’s road safety.
Key Highlights:
The Power of Being Seen: We share the story of Kryssa Bacon, a local mother rebuilding her life in Watertown. Through the collaboration of Watertown Fire Rescue and the Salvation Army Angel Tree program, Bacon describes how community support provided more than just gifts—it offered a vital reminder that her family isn’t alone during a season of transition.
A District Divided: The Oldham-Ramona-Rutland (ORR) School District narrowly avoided dissolution this week. Following a deadlocked 363-363 tie on Tuesday, the counting of provisional ballots has kept the district intact for now. We break down the stark contrast in voter sentiment between Ramona, Oldham, and Rutland.
 
Court Watch: A 39-year-old man, Bernardo Antonio Funes Chavez, is facing multiple felony indictments in Codington County. The charges range from first-degree rape involving a young child in 2023 to a separate attempted burglary charge from earlier this year. A jury trial is now set for February 2026.
Road Safety Warning: South Dakota has been placed in “danger mode” by the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. With over 1,300 fatal crashes in the last decade, the report calls for stricter legislation. However, Randolph, chair of the House Transportation Committee, suggests that South Dakota’s culture of personal responsibility may stand in the way of new mandates.
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!
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The weekly check-in with Loren Schoenbeck at Hahler Auto took on a cautious tone this Thursday as severe weather and high wind warnings triggered “no travel” advisories across the Webster area.
Schoenbeck reported that while his sales team is still on-site and ready to help, the safest way for customers to browse is through their newly redesigned website. With Highway 12 seeing hazardous conditions and several vehicles already in ditches, the dealership is leaning on its digital showroom to keep up with a busy year-end rush, ensuring customers can lock in deals from the safety of their homes.
Beyond the weather, Schoenbeck highlighted the dealership’s focus on maintaining high inventory standards as the year winds down. He specifically discussed the challenges of sourcing reliable vehicles for college-bound students, noting that Hahler Auto prefers to wholesale lower-quality units rather than risk their reputation on a subpar sale.
As the holiday season approaches, Schoenbeck reminded listeners that the dealership will close at noon on Wednesday, December 24, remaining closed through Christmas Day and New Year’s Day to allow his team time with their families.
www.hahlerauto.com 
https://www.facebook.com/hahlerauto 
- 12/18/25
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
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Steve Jurrens and Dorene Foster sit down with Trisha Rieffenberger to discuss the vital work being done by My Happy Place in Watertown, South Dakota. Trisha explains how her team of volunteers transforms ordinary rooms into personalized, therapeutic havens for people facing life-altering health diagnoses. We dive into the emotional "reveal" moments and the long-term impact these spaces have on a patient’s well-being.
Key Takeaways:
Defining a Healing Environment: Why colors, scents, and textures matter in the recovery process.
The "First Good News" Effect: The psychological boost of having a project to look forward to during treatment.
A Community Effort: How local tradespeople and volunteers make these high-budget makeovers possible at no cost to the recipient.
How to Nominate: How the selection process works for those in need in the Watertown area.
Resources Mentioned:
https://myhappyplaces.org/ 
https://www.facebook.com/myhappyplacewtn
 
 
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
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Angel’s Attic Named Watertown’s Best Thrift Store Community support has reached a new milestone as Angel’s Attic Thrift Store was officially recognized as the best in Watertown for 2025. The honor was awarded by Business Rate, an organization that identifies local leaders using verified consumer data. Unlike traditional awards that require an application, this ranking was determined solely by the public’s "authentic feedback" through Google reviews, highlighting the store’s high reputation and service excellence.
Christmas Tree Fundraiser Hits $4,400 Mark The Watertown Area Community Foundation’s annual fundraiser at the Watertown Regional Library has entered its third week. So far, residents have contributed $4,417 to local nonprofits.
Current Leaders: Watertown Regional Library, Rachel’s Hope, and Watertown Cares have each raised over $500.
Gaining Momentum: Northern Prairie Arts and the Lake Area Zoological Society are nearing $400. The event uses a "$1, one vote" system, with the Foundation matching donations up to $300 per group. The top-earning organization at the end of December will receive an additional $500 grant.
Jeremy Stephenson Appointed Grant County Sheriff On Tuesday, the Grant County Board of Commissioners appointed Jeremy Stephenson to serve as the next County Sheriff. Stephenson, a veteran deputy with the department since 2013, will fill the vacancy left by the retirement of Sheriff Kevin Owen. His term officially begins on January 1, 2026, ensuring a smooth transition for local law enforcement.
Lake Poinsett Home Destroyed by Fire A lake house on the west end of Lake Poinsett was declared a total loss following an early morning fire on December 16. Emergency responders from Lake Norden and Hayti battled the intense blaze in freezing conditions after a neighbor reported smoke. Fortunately, the residence was unoccupied at the time, and no injuries were reported.
Police Conduct Alcohol Compliance Checks Watertown Police issued citations to three local businesses last week following routine alcohol compliance checks. Of the 18 establishments visited, 15 passed the inspection. Three clerks were cited for selling alcohol to a minor. The checks are part of the "Keep Watertown Streets Safe" initiative, launched to combat a 35% increase in DUI arrests seen over the past year.

Northeast Radio SD: On-Demand Local Listen Host: Steve Jurrens & Dorene Foster with Northeast Radio SD Guests: Jo Vitek (Divine Providence of South Dakota) & Jesse Hurkes (Youth Pastor, Cornerstone Church)
Episode Summary
In this episode, we dive into a crucial conversation about protecting our youth and strengthening families in Northeast South Dakota. Vitek, a retired Watertown Police Chief and founder of Divine Providence of SD, joins Hurkes from Cornerstone Church to discuss the upcoming Pure Desire Conference in Watertown.
The discussion centers on the reality of today’s digital landscape and the “buttered popcorn” effect of social media—where children can be lured into harmful “rabbit holes” without even realizing it. Our guests share vital statistics about the average age of exposure to explicit content and offer a roadmap for parents to move from a one-time “talk” to an ongoing, healthy conversation.
Key Takeaways
The Digital Reality: Understand the statistics behind early exposure and how social media algorithms can impact a child’s development.
Building Strong Foundations: Hurkes explains how teaching youth healthy boundaries today leads to trust and integrity in future marriages.
A Community Effort: Discover how local organizations and churches are partnering to offer resources for healing and prevention.
Event Details: Get the full schedule for the Pure Desire Conference (January 16-17, 2025) and learn how you can register.
About Northeast Radio SD
This podcast is a part of our commitment to Media Content that matters. At Northeast Radio SD, we leverage our digital platform to build Brand Awareness for local initiatives and foster Marketing Partnerships that connect the city with the country. We believe in providing an objective, jargon-free, and optimistic look at the future of Watertown.
Show Notes & Links
Register for the Conference: Facebook.com/puredesirewatertown
https://www.facebook.com/puredesirewatertown# 
https://www.facebook.com/LakeKampeska 
https://www.facebook.com/CornerstoneChurchWatertownSD 
Learn More about Divine Providence of SD: Supporting survivors and strengthening local churches.
Connect with Cornerstone Church: Exploring the “Up, In, and Out” rhythms of community faith.
Listen on the Northeast Radio SD App, iHeartRadio, or at NortheastRadioSD.com.
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!
Northeast Radio SD - HTML5 PLAYER (Direct link to START streaming NOW)
Apple link: https://apps.apple.com/us/developer/northeast-radio-sd-llc/id1850742508
Android link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.live365.northeastradio
Support Northeast Radio SD: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/LWPNHN6RW76HA