Northeast Radio SD: On-Demand Local Listen

Join Northeast Radio SD hosts Steve Jurrens and Dorene Foster as they welcome special guest Jen Harms, Director of the Watertown Area Snow Queen Festival. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100055266446528 (Facebook page)
In this interview, Harms provides a detailed look at the program, emphasizing its mission to foster confidence, interview skills, and lasting friendships among local young women. She highlights that the program is also a significant scholarship competition.
What to Expect in this Episode:
A Look Inside: Hear about the full-day schedule for participants, which includes a self-defense class, interview coaching, a craft activity, and stage practice to help ease nerves.
The Big Event: Get all the details for the 2026 Snow Queen Festival, including the "Enchanted Forest" theme, and the different age categories: Seniors, Juniors (Freshmen), Snow Princesses (6th Grade), and the 1st-grade Prince and Princess drawing.
A Legacy of Excellence: Learn about the recent significant achievement when Watertown's winner, Katie Leda Brand, went on to capture the State title—the first time a Watertown contestant has won since 1993!
Community Impact: Harms explains the year-long commitment of the titleholders, who serve as role models and participate in numerous community events, including activities with the Boys and Girls Club, Zoo Boo, and Chamber events such as Little Mr. Miss Shamrock.
Scholarship and Giving: Discover the scholarship amounts awarded to the winners ($1,000 for Seniors, $500 for Juniors, $100 for 6th Grade) and how a 50/50 drawing raises money for the girls to donate to local projects.
How to Attend: Tickets are sold at the door for the November 23rd event at the Goss Opera House, with doors opening at 5:30 PM and the event starting at 6:00 PM.
Harms also gives a special shout-out to community sponsors, including the Community Foundation (Women in Giving), Kiwanis, and the Watertown Rotary Club, for their generous support of the program.
Don't miss this conversation about a cherished local tradition that builds up the next generation of community leaders.
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 LIVE365 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: Live365 Radio - Music & Talk on the App Store
Android link: Live365 Radio - Music & Talk - Apps on Google Play

Urgent SNAP Crisis, City Sick Bank Approved, and Road Work Begins
 
The food insecurity crisis is escalating in Watertown due to the federal government shutdown, spurring urgent action from local leaders.
In this Daily News Recap:
Community Mobilizes: Hear the status report from Watertown Area United Way Executive Director Laura Heathcote on the critical role of SNAP benefits in Coddington County (721 children impacted in September) and how The Salvation Army (Captain Jolly) is scrambling to meet a massive surge in demand for food assistance.
The Food Fight: Details on how you can help, including the urgent call for non-perishable donations to the Salvation Army and Hy-Vee’s comprehensive new community support efforts, featuring low-cost family meals and food bank donation bundles.
City Policy Update: City Manager Stager introduced, and the City Council unanimously approved, a new Sick Bank Program for city employees, allowing voluntary donation of sick time to colleagues in need—a budget-neutral measure designed to make the City a more attractive employer.
Watertown Traffic Alert: Get the specifics on the planned road work and lane closures beginning Wednesday, November 5th, at the intersection of Highway 81 and 4th Street Northeast.
Stay informed and connected to the news that matters most to the Watertown community.
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 LIVE365 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: Live365 Radio - Music & Talk on the App Store
Android link: Live365 Radio - Music & Talk - Apps on Google Play

Watertown's Future: School District's $10.8M Plan, Xcel Energy Rate Credit, and Local Emergency Calls
School District’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan: Hear the details on the Watertown School District's proactive financial and strategic plan, which commits over $10.8 million to facility upgrades and prioritizes competitive staff pay. Superintendent Danielson and Business Manager Claussen discuss the financial forecast, including an impressive fund balance, the shift of some paraprofessionals to the SPED fund, and the deferral of the Lincoln Elementary roof project to pay down $2.4 million in new AC projects. Also covered are the new walking path, high school locker replacements, and a look ahead at potential funding for the Northeast Tech facility.
Customer Credit from Xcel Energy: Learn about Northern States Power Company's (Xcel Energy) proposed negative $19 million revenue requirement for its 2026 infrastructure rider. If approved by the South Dakota PUC on November 6th, a typical residential customer could see a $6.02 credit on their monthly electric bill.
Watertown Fire Rescue Activity: Get the latest on local emergency responses, including a Saturday morning incident where a sedan impacted a multi-family residence on 1st Ave NE, causing minor structural intrusion. Plus, details on a successful extrication using the "jaws of life" following a single-vehicle rollover crash.
Tax Relief: A vital update for the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Tribal Nation, as the IRS extends tax filing and payment deadlines until February 2, 2026, for individuals and businesses affected by severe storms and flooding earlier this year.
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 LIVE365 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: Live365 Radio - Music & Talk on the App Store
Android link: Live365 Radio - Music & Talk - Apps on Google Play

Healthcare Shakeup, $24M Bridge Crisis, and the Fish Stocking Frenzy
This week, we dive into the biggest stories impacting the Watertown region, from healthcare delivery to local infrastructure and public media funding.
On the show:
The Sanford Health & Prairie Lakes Merger: We break down the official combination of the nation's most extensive rural healthcare system and the Watertown-based Prairie Lakes Healthcare System. What does this mean for local jobs, patient services, and the financial investments committed to the community?
Codington County's $24M Bridge Backlog: The County faces an urgent infrastructure crisis, with 29% of its bridges rated in poor condition. Hear how officials are dealing with new, immediate weight limit restrictions on key routes and the challenging, multi-million-dollar push to secure federal funding for critical replacements before potential closures.
SDPB Layoffs Reduced & Capitol Lake Opens: South Dakota Public Broadcasting (SDPB) has significantly reduced its planned layoffs from 15 to 7, thanks to new funding and grants. Plus, we've got the full report on the opening of Capitol Lake and Pier for public fishing, including how the Game, Fish, and Parks Department stocked the lake with 3,000 rainbow trout, bluegills, and largemouth bass for immediate angling success.
Tune in for the essential local news you need to know!
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 LIVE365 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: Live365 Radio - Music & Talk on the App Store
Android link: Live365 Radio - Music & Talk - Apps on Google Play

Go beyond the pink ribbon! This week, our friend Debra Jo Gagne joins us to share her powerful, personal story of a successful fight against early-stage breast cancer.
Debra Jo opens up about her painful lump scare (stage 1A/B) and why she believes the standard annual checkup isn't enough. She delivers a direct, unforgettable message on the crucial importance of daily self-examinations—a practice that saved her life.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
Her candid story of recovery and the unique environmental factor identified by genetic testing.
Why men need to check themselves, too (her uncle's story proves it!).
Details on the All Women Count program, which helps women access essential physicals and mammograms.
A surprising and heartwarming account of the community service she does to help others find lumps.
Plus, hear her daily homeopathic routine for overall health and wellness.
This is a must-listen for everyone—not just in October—to be proactive about breast health and early detection.
Guest: Debra Jo Gagne Topics: Breast Cancer, Early Detection, Self-Exams, All Women Count Program, Homeopathy.
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 LIVE365 app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
Northeast Radio SD - HTML5 PLAYER
Apple link: Live365 Radio - Music & Talk on the App Store
Android link: Live365 Radio - Music & Talk - Apps on Google Play

This news recap covers a range of critical community updates from Codington County.
In law enforcement news, hear details on the serious felony and subsequent misdemeanor charges filed against Dovon Walton in connection with an alleged child abuse case involving a seven-year-old minor. The report details the initial hospital visit, the nature of the child's injuries, and Walton's re-arrest for violating his bond's no-contact order.
On a brighter note, the Watertown Figure Skating Club made history at the Bismarck Capital City Championship, achieving a perfect 28 podium placements and securing multiple national showcase qualifications.
Finally, the report highlights the Glacial Lakes and Prairies Tourism Association's annual meeting, where Governor Kristi Noem officially proclaimed October 29th as Rosie Smith Day across South Dakota, in honor of her 25 years of service. Plus, get an update on the Lake Area Technical College (LATC) eSports teams heading to the prestigious Midwest Clash Tournament in Chicago.
In This Episode:
Local Crime Update: Felony and misdemeanor charges against Dovon Walton in an alleged child abuse case.
Figure Skating Success: Watertown skaters achieve a perfect sweep at a major regional championship.
Rosie Smith Day: Official recognition for 25 years of service to regional tourism.
LATC eSports: Rocket League and Valorant teams secure invitations to the Midwest Clash.

Join Steve Jurrens and Dorene Foster for a critical and inspiring conversation with Shona Marshall, Outreach Coordinator for The Beacon Center. In recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this episode dives into the essential, 24/7 work The Beacon Center performs for the Watertown community and the surrounding five counties.
Marshall clearly outlines the free, comprehensive services provided by the non-profit—from emergency shelter and legal advocacy to case management and a family visitation center. The discussion confronts the difficult realities of domestic and sexual violence, stressing that abuse is not always visible and can include mental and emotional control over financial and social life.
 
Marshall provides a powerful perspective on why leaving an abusive situation is so complex and offers encouragement and practical advice for victims, emphasizing that support is always available, no matter how many times a person seeks help. She also highlights the Beacon Center's strong community partnerships and vital outreach work, including educating students on high school dating violence.
If you or someone you know is struggling, this interview shares essential information on the resources available and why the community's consistent, non-judgmental support is so crucial.
 
Key Takeaways from the Conversation:
 
Comprehensive Support: The Beacon Center provides a holistic suite of services, including 8 apartments for emergency shelter, case management, and legal/medical advocacy.
 
The Power of Words: Marshall emphasizes that mental and emotional abuse can be as detrimental, if not more so, than physical violence.
A Difficult Journey: Listeners gain an understanding of why it statistically takes a victim multiple attempts to leave an abuser, underlining the necessity of consistent, non-judgmental community support.
24/7 Crisis Line: The number to their continuously operating crisis line is shared for immediate assistance.
Community Engagement: Learn how simple acts, like wearing purple or participating in events like the pumpkin contest, help raise vital awareness and funds.

This episode of the Northeast Radio SD News Update brings you a mix of community news, judicial action, and veteran tributes across South Dakota.
In this broadcast, you'll hear about:
"Night to Shine" Returns: Details on the annual, worldwide prom night celebration for people with special needs, co-hosted locally by Cornerstone Church and Joy Ranch on Friday, February 13th, 2026. Learn about the royal treatment every guest receives, from the red carpet to the crowning ceremony.
Yankton Drug Sentencing: A report on the 20-year prison sentence handed down to Callahan-Stark (31) in Yankton County Circuit Court following guilty pleas to multiple felony drug charges, including possession with intent to distribute cocaine and fentanyl. The sentencing resulted from a joint investigation by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and local authorities.
Fallen Heroes Bridge Dedication: Information on the upcoming regional ceremony hosted by the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs in Sioux Falls to dedicate six state bridges in honor of fallen World War II veterans.
November Sobriety Checkpoints: The latest on the South Dakota Highway Patrol's proactive plan to conduct sobriety checkpoints in 16 counties across the state throughout November.
To get more information or to volunteer for Night to Shine, check out the full article on NortheastRadioSD.com. STREAMING LIVE 24/7!

The Watertown City Council convened last night, unanimously advancing two key initiatives designed to stimulate local economic growth and improve sustainability, while also moving to address a critical public safety concern regarding psychoactive hemp-derived products.
 
New Restricted Liquor License Approved to Attract New Restaurants
 
The City Council unanimously approved the second reading of an ordinance to create a new restricted liquor license category for full-service restaurants. This action, following months of discussion and community input, is intended to attract high-quality dining establishments to Watertown.
City Manager Stager outlined the key provisions designed to differentiate this new category from the traditional full liquor license:
Revenue Requirement: License holders must derive a minimum of 60% of their annual revenue from food sales and no more than 40% from the sale of alcoholic beverages.
Annual Fee: The ordinance formally enshrines an annual fee of $50,000 for the license.
Mayor Holien expressed his ultimate support, noting the economic impact new restaurants can have. "Things like that are important to the growth of Watertown," Holien stated, citing examples of people driving long distances to visit successful local restaurants and boosting tourism.
Councilman Jurrens, who moved to approve the ordinance, emphasized that the $50,000 fee addresses a category that had seen zero demand in 16 years when the fee was $100,000. Jurrens stressed the importance of the guardrails put in place, expressing optimism for increased choices for residents and travelers. The vote was unanimous, with Councilman Hoyer abstaining.
 
City Seeks $5 Million Federal Grant for Airport Solar Farm
 
The Council also unanimously authorized City Manager Stager to submit a pre-application for a Voluntary Airport Low Emissions (VALE) Grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The $5 million in potential funding would be used to construct a solar farm at the Watertown Regional Airport.
The project is positioned as a significant step toward reducing the facility’s carbon footprint and offsetting operational costs, which currently stand at approximately $100,000 annually. Stager explained that the $5 million investment is crucial not just for immediate savings but for future economic development activities and expansion at the airport.
Councilman Hoyer expressed strong enthusiasm for the initiative, suggesting the city explore similar alternative energy opportunities across other large municipal buildings.
Airport Manager Ian Merriweather assured the Council that the solar installation would be small—about $0.2 to $0.3$ acres—and discreet. He also confirmed that preliminary discussions with Watertown Municipal Utilities indicated the possibility of a buyback program for any excess electricity returned to the grid, addressing a query from Councilman Jurrens.
The pre-application is due November 1, with an award decision expected early next year. If the city is successful, construction could be scheduled for 2027. The council's swift move to pursue this highly competitive federal funding stream is a positive step toward modernizing infrastructure and promoting sustainability.
 
Age Restriction Ordinance Prepared for Psychoactive Hemp Products
 
In a third major action, the Council unanimously directed city staff to draft a focused ordinance that would prohibit the sale, purchase, and possession of psychoactive hemp-derived products to individuals under the age of 21.
The decision followed extensive testimony from community stakeholders, including Watertown Police Chief Tim Toomey, prevention specialists, and youth. Stakeholders highlighted the public safety risks associated with a current legal loophole that allows intoxicating THC beverages and edibles to be sold without age restriction, noting an exponential increase in aggressive behavior tied to Delta products.
The Council agreed to align the penalties for the new law with existing alcohol violations, which carry a maximum fine of $500 and 30 days in jail for a Class 2 misdemeanor.
Chief Toomey emphasized that the issue is a "community topic" focused solely on "protecting our kids," not debating the legalization of marijuana. Nancy Gilbertson, owner of Vape Depot, advised the council on precise language to ensure the ban covers all intoxicating, chemically modified products like Delta-8 and Delta-10. Teacher Haley Rowe, who brought local middle school students from the youth group Peeps (Peer Educating and Empowering Peers) to advocate for the ban, stressed the importance of adult leaders protecting the community's youth.
Mayor Holien expressed confidence that Watertown’s leadership in being one of the first municipalities to act could spur similar statewide legislation. City Manager Stager and City Attorney Lisa Carrico will now prepare the new ordinance for its first reading next week.
 
www.northeastradiosd.com

In this exclusive interview, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD) joins Northeast Radio SD to provide his take on the most pressing issues facing South Dakota and the nation, including the current government shutdown, the controversial Argentine beef tariff changes, and the economic potential of data centers in the Dakotas.
 
Key Discussion Points:
 
The Government Shutdown: Congressman Johnson calls the shutdown "stupid" and expresses visible frustration over its impact on border agents, TSA, federal civilian employees, and critical aid programs like SNAP/food stamps. He explains why he is not taking a paycheck and details the legislative impasse, centering on COVID-era healthcare subsidies.
Argentine Beef Tariffs: We dive into the President's plan to quadruple the amount of Argentine beef entering the U.S. without high tariffs. Johnson voices concerns, arguing that the best way to lower prices is through supporting American beef producers, not foreign imports. He shares the frustration expressed by South Dakota ranchers.
 
Data Centers in South Dakota: Johnson outlines his proposal to attract "the right projects" like data centers to the state. He highlights the massive potential economic benefit (e.g., $5 million annually in taxes for a single county like Duel County) and argues that South Dakota must be bold enough to say 'yes' to good growth projects. His plan includes exempting a unique state tax on data centers, but only if they meet strict criteria on:
Protecting electric rates for existing residents.
Protecting water quality and cost.
Paying substantial, sustained property taxes.
Creating high-quality jobs with above-average compensation.
"The shutdown is stupid, and we need to end it right now." - U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson
Stay connected for updates:
Congressman Johnson's Office: Visit [dustyjohnson.house.gov] or call their office.
 
Northeast Radio SD: Follow us for continuous updates on local and national news impacting South Dakota.
#DustyJohnson #SouthDakota #GovernmentShutdown #BeefIndustry #DataCenters #SDPolitics #NortheastRadioSD #GOP #USCongress
**Download the Live 365 app, search "Northeast Radio SD" and start streaming today! LIVE 24/7!