🚔 Get an Inside Look at the Watertown CID!

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at the Watertown Police Department? We sat down with Captain Steve Rehorst and Detective Jesse Alvarado to talk about everything from complex investigations and bilingual outreach to the department’s new TikTok! 📱

Highlights:

“We’re just one spoke on the wheel for keeping the community safe.” — Captain Steve Rehorst

Watch the full interview below! 👇

#WatertownSD #WatertownPD #LawEnforcement #CommunityPolicing #CID #PublicSafety #SupportLocalPolice

🗳️ Post-Session Update: What South Dakota Businesses Need to Know!

Watertown Public Opinion Archives Digitization: The Watertown Area Community Foundation announced a final $30,000 grant to the Codington County Historical Society. This completes the $90,000 funding needed to digitize the entire Watertown Public Opinion newspaper archive.

Current Progress: Editions from 1870 through 1985 are already searchable online.

Impact: Historical Society Director Christy Lickei noted the portal is a vital resource for genealogists and students, logging nearly 53,000 page views in 2025 alone.

Village of Harmony Hill Expansion: Codington County Commissioners unanimously approved up to $30 million in economic development revenue bonds for the expansion of Harmony Hill.

Project Details: This five-year initiative will add 62 high-quality independent senior housing units integrated into the Mother of God Monastery campus.

Financial Structure: The county acts only as a “conduit”; the financial risk falls entirely on the non-profit and the bank, with no liability for local taxpayers.

“Coffee & Camaraderie” Gathering: The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will bring its outreach series to Watertown later this month at the BG Ernie Edwards Readiness Center.

Expert Access: Veterans can meet with County Veterans Service Officers Jay Roberts and Eric Lewis to discuss healthcare eligibility, disability compensation, and education benefits.

State Aid Tug-of-War: As the 2026 legislative Session enters its final days, Watertown School District officials are watching the state aid increase. While Governor Larry Rhoden proposed a 1% increase, the district is holding out hope for a higher figure before the Session wraps on March 12.

Technical Education: Tiffany Sanderson, President of Lake Area Technical College, reported that House Bill 1202 (funding for a new trade center) narrowly failed. The college now plans to pivot toward private fundraising for programs like HVAC and water treatment.

School Board Actions:

Mellette Elementary Upgrades: The board approved a $71,430 bid for a new “Synergy Series” playground structure, designed for 65 students with ADA-compliant ramps and specialized climbing features.

Staffing: The board authorized the continued employment of 19 administrators and directors for the 2026-27 school year.

Calendar Adjustments: Because no snow days have been used this year, the board will decide in April whether to end the school year early.

Spring Break: There will be no school for the Watertown District from March 18th through the 20th.

Sponsor: This hour’s news was brought to you by Arrow Products, a locally owned point-of-sale and credit card processing provider.

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 a recent sit-down at the Northeast Radio SD studio, T’Ana Novy and Alana Huck, Family Service Specialists with the Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership (ICAP), shared the profound impact their programs have on local families. Far from being just a daycare, ICAP’s Head Start and Early Head Start programs serve as a comprehensive support system designed to lift the entire family unit.

One of the most significant takeaways from the interview was the distinction between standard childcare and the Head Start model.

"It’s not like a daycare; this is a school with teachers," Alana Huck emphasized. "They are constantly undergoing training... we address children's social-emotional needs also, because people aren't naturally born on how to handle tough situations."

The curriculum-based program focuses on holistic development, including daily life skills like teeth brushing and potty training. Beyond the classroom, ICAP ensures that every child is physically ready to learn by facilitating hearing and vision screenings, dental visits, and medical checkups.

ICAP’s mission extends beyond the child. T’Ana Novy explained how the organization acts as a bridge for parents who might be struggling with navigating community resources.

"We help families in all areas," Novy noted. "If they need help with paperwork, or if they just need some guidance on where to get their kids in for medical appointments... we make sure their kids' needs are met and their families' needs as well."

The partnership even assists families with complex issues, such as navigating SNAP benefits or finding mental health resources. "Ultimately, parents love their children," Huck added. "They just might not know what’s available to help them more."

While many think of school enrollment as a once-a-year event, ICAP is constantly looking for new families. The program serves 72 children in-center and 24 through its home-based program.

"We are recruiting right now," Huck shared. "We recruit all year long. Don’t think just because you missed the first of September your kid’s not getting in... if there’s an opening, we get it filled."

ICAP follows federal poverty guidelines but encourages all families to apply, noting that certain expenses like housing costs can sometimes be deducted from gross income to help a family qualify.

[Facebook/Instagram Post]

🎙️ ICAP in the Studio! 🎙️

We had a great conversation this morning with T’Ana Novy and Alana Huck from Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership (ICAP)!

Did you know that Head Start is SO much more than just a preschool? From helping families navigate health screenings to providing a research-based curriculum for kiddos, ICAP is all about "Healthy Families, Healthy Kids." 🍎✨

Key Highlights from our chat:

🏫 It’s a School: Led by certified teachers focused on social-emotional growth and life skills.

🤝 Family Support: ICAP helps parents with everything from SNAP applications to finding a ride to the doctor.

🆓 No Cost: These are free programs for qualifying families!

🗓️ Apply Anytime: They recruit year-round—if there’s an opening, they want to fill it!

"Knowledge comes comfort," says Alana Huck. If you’re a parent in the Watertown area looking for that extra bit of support and a "head start" for your little one, now is the time to reach out.

📍 Location: 7 8th Ave SE, Watertown (The ICAP Building) 📞 Call: 605-886-7674 💻 Apply Online: interlakescap.com

Watch the full interview on our app or website! 📲

#WatertownSD #NortheastRadioSD #CommunityAction #HeadStart #SupportLocalFamilies #ICAP #SouthDakota

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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Beyond the “Band-Aid”: Transforming Lives with Codington Connects! 🤝✨

🍀 Big News, Watertown! 🍀

We are thrilled to announce our 2026 St. Patrick’s Day Grand Marshals: legendary local educators Bill and Cathy Zubke! (Or, as they’re calling themselves this week, the "O'Zubkes"!) 🎓✨

Join us on Saturday, March 14, for a day packed with Irish luck:

Pancake Breakfast (9 AM)

Live Music & Kids' Contests (10:30 AM)

The Grand Parade (Noon)

Pet Costume Contest & the Watertown Home Show

Don't forget to grab your "Lucky Mix" Raffle Buttons for a chance to win $500 in Watertown Bucks or an electric scooter! 🎟️🛴

Check out the full interview for hilarious stories about Bill’s "11% Irish heritage" and their adventures at the Blarney Stone! 🇮🇪

#WatertownSD #StPatricksDay2026 #GrandMarshals #CommunityPride #LuckyMix

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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Wastewater Treatment Plant Progress: A key highlight of the newscast involves a major step forward for Watertown's infrastructure. The state legislature has moved to approve a $40 million appropriation for the city's new wastewater treatment plant. This funding is seen as a vital investment for long-term growth and environmental sustainability.

City Management Updates: City Manager Alan Stager has been actively coordinating with local departments, including the Fire Department led by Chief Don Rowland, to ensure that emergency services are integrated into the city's five-year development plan.

School Board Activities: The Watertown School Board, under the leadership of President Jon Iverson, is currently reviewing upcoming budget adjustments. Vice President Kari Lohr noted that these adjustments will prioritize student safety and the expansion of the "Career and Technical Education" (CTE) programs.

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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Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - In the heart of downtown Watertown, a local staple is doing more than just pouring pints; they are brewing a sense of belonging. Watertown Brewing Company (WBC) continues to solidify its reputation as the city’s premier gathering spot, blending traditional brewing techniques with a deep commitment to the local community.

Founded on the principle of bringing high-quality craft beer to the Glacial Lakes region, the brewery has become a cornerstone of the downtown revitalization effort. For owners Michael Heuer and Shawn Lindsey, the mission has always been about more than just the liquid in the glass.

“When we started this journey, we wanted to create a space where everyone felt like a regular,” says Michael Heuer. “Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or someone just looking for a comfortable place to have lunch with the family, we’ve designed the brewery to be Watertown’s living room.”

The brewery, housed in a beautifully restored historic building, features an industrial-chic aesthetic that pays homage to the city’s hardworking heritage. The open-concept taproom allows guests to see the gleaming stainless steel tanks where the magic happens—a deliberate choice to maintain transparency in their process.

Brewmaster and co-owner Shawn Lindsey emphasizes that quality is the non-negotiable ingredient in every batch. “We take a lot of pride in the science and the art of brewing. We use the finest malts and hops, and we aren’t afraid to experiment,” Lindsey explains. “From our flagship ‘Campesino’ to our rotating seasonal taps, our goal is to offer a flavor profile for every palate. If it doesn’t meet our standards, it doesn't hit the tap."

Beyond the beer, WBC has gained a following for its elevated pub fare, proving that brewery food can be just as sophisticated as the drinks. The kitchen focuses on fresh ingredients and hearty portions, designed to pair perfectly with the house-made brews.

However, the true “secret sauce” of Watertown Brewing Company is its connection to its neighbors. The brewery frequently hosts live music, community fundraisers, and local events.

“Watertown has supported us from day one, and we make it a priority to give that support back,” Heuer adds. “We aren’t just a business in Watertown; we are of Watertown. Every pint poured is a thank you to this community.”

As the craft beer scene continues to grow in South Dakota, Watertown Brewing Company remains focused on its original vision: great beer, great food, and even better company.

https://www.facebook.com/WatertownBrewCo 

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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🎙️ Northeast Radio SD: Snow Plows, Safety, and Community Growth

In today's briefing, Steve Jurens covers the latest headlines shaping Watertown and the surrounding region. From lighthearted community contests to critical infrastructure reminders, we’ve got you covered.

Highlights include:

❄️ "Scraping By": Meet the winner of the SDDOT "Name the Plow" contest.

🚗 Safety Alert: Details on two weekend vehicle-into-structure collisions in Watertown.

🤝 Workforce Wins: How "Freedom’s Haven" is helping 800+ refugees find a home in SD agriculture.

🏠 Homeowner Reminders: Sump pump deadlines and property tax relief info you can't miss.

Sponsored by the Watertown Development Company.

#WatertownSD #SouthDakotaNews #LocalRadio #CommunityUpdate

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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A-1 Development Solutions has filed a civil lawsuit against a former employee, alleging a multi-year scheme to divert proprietary business opportunities to competitors.

The 30-page complaint, filed in the Third Judicial Circuit of Codington County, names Kyle Peters, Bad River Development, Josh Tegan, and the 1776 Group as defendants. A-1 Development Solutions claims Peters (PEE-terz) used his position to hide a $170 million data center land purchase opportunity from the firm for personal gain. The lawsuit includes ten counts, including breach of contract, tortious interference, and fraudulent misrepresentation. As of the filing date, Peters has not filed a formal response in court.

During Tuesday’s County Commission meeting, Watertown resident James Simmons (SIH-munz) requested that officials reconsider a 60-day trial of Flock Safety automated license plate readers. Simmons argued the technology is invasive, noting it captures a "vehicle fingerprint" including color and bumper stickers. He expressed concern that data is stored in a third-party cloud database rather than remaining under local control. The board took no formal action following the presentation.

The Watertown Police Department conducted a targeted investigation resulting in the arrest of Dirk Leadabrand (LEE-duh-brand), 55, on Wednesday. Following a search of a residence in Northwest Watertown, officers reportedly recovered methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Leadabrand faces charges of distributing a controlled substance in a drug-free zone and maintaining a location where drugs are kept.

In a separate case, police arrested Javier Hernandez Cervantes (HER-nan-dez ser-VAN-teez), 47, on Feb. 25. An investigation launched in June 2025 revealed Hernandez Cervantes, a Mexican national, allegedly utilized the Social Security number and name of a California resident for more than 20 years to obtain employment and identification. He faces four counts of identity theft and four counts of forgery.

Codington County Veteran Service Officer Jay Roberts (RAH-berts) announced Tuesday that his office has secured more than $177,000 in retroactive payments for local veterans this year. The VA provides these payments when a past claim is updated to current standards. Roberts highlighted an upcoming "What’s Brewing" outreach event on March 24 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Watertown Readiness Center to discuss burial and healthcare benefits.