Volga Fatal Crash, Watertown Fire Response, and AG Jackley's Fraud Alert

Your essential news recap from Northeast Radio SD, covering key law enforcement, emergency services, and public safety updates from the region.

Fatal Head-On Collision Near Volga: Hear the details of the tragic two-vehicle head-on crash on US Highway 14 east of Volga on Friday evening. The accident resulted in the death of a 50-year-old Arlington man and serious injuries to a 20-year-old Brookings man.

Watertown Fire Rescue Incident: Get the report on the Watertown Fire Rescue response to a local apartment building where a strong odor, initially feared to be a gas leak, was traced to an overheated elevator hydraulic system. Crews successfully stabilized the scene with no fire, no injuries, and no evacuation needed.

Medical Emergency Near SDSU: A serious medical emergency near the north end of the SDSU campus on Saturday morning prompted a response from multiple agencies. The report includes details on the 71-year-old driver found with a serious self-inflicted injury and the subsequent campus alert that was later cleared as posing no ongoing threat.

Hamlin County Drug Arrest: The Hamlin County Sheriff's Office reported the arrest of a 40-year-old Watertown man on multiple drug and DUI misdemeanor charges following a traffic stop near Estelline.

Fraud Awareness Week Warning: South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley issues an urgent warning to consumers ahead of International Fraud Awareness Week, urging caution against increasingly sophisticated unsolicited text message scams that impersonate government officials and issue fake notifications.

Stay informed with Northeast Radio SD for the clear, concise news you need.

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

Check out our interview today with Naomi Evens, director of the new Town Players production, Making God Laugh 

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

Join us for a truly special edition of our local business spotlight series as we pull back the curtain on one of Watertown's most beloved dining institutions: The Wheel Inn.

Northeast Radio SD welcomes Tim Sheehan from the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce and his special guest, Sara Horning, owner of both The Wheel Inn and Gas and Goodies. This isn't your typical business interview—it's a story of personal journey, deep community ties, and the surprising path from a psychology and biochem major to leading a bustling South Dakota diner.

In this episode, you’ll hear Sara discuss:

From Nordstrom to the Diner: Her unexpected career path, meeting her husband Ted, and the two-week wait that led to her owning The Wheel Inn.

The Secret to 30+ Years of Loyalty: Sara shares her philosophy on treating staff like family, which has led to incredible employee tenure—a rarity in the restaurant industry.

Community and Tradition: Stories of customers coming back from all over the world, family traditions tied to the hot beef combo, and the joy of watching "little tykes in high chairs" grow up to be local professionals.

The Big Mistakes and Laughs: Hear the hilarious story of the beer-battered fish incident and the surprising car crashes the building has survived.

Future Plans: Sara discusses her upcoming POS system update, adapting a classic diner for the digital age, and why she secretly dreams of working at SeaWorld!

Tune in for an honest, fun, and connecting conversation that highlights the dedicated individuals who make Watertown thrive. STAY tuned for our follow-up video with Sara as we take an inside look at The Wheel Inn, and we run into some longtime patrons and get some great stories! 

https://www.watertownwheelinn.com/

https://watertownsd.com/

#WatertownSD #WheelInn #LocalBusiness #ChamberOfCommerce #NortheastRadioSD #CommunitySpotlight #SaraHorning

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

Northeast Radio SD News Update: Figure Skating Success, WSD Academic Wins, and Regional Headlines

The latest news for Northeast Radio SD is here! Dive into a packed update on Watertown's Figure Skating Club achieving a medal haul and qualifying more skaters for the 2026 National Showcase. Plus, hear the Watertown School District's positive annual achievement report, detailing graduation rates and progress above state averages.

We also cover the tragic loss of a Harrisburg man in a motorcycle crash south of Watertown.

Skating Stars Shine Bright: The Watertown Figure Skating Club Advance team returned from the Granite City Classic in St. Cloud with a massive 39 total medals (14 Gold, 14 Silver, 11 Bronze). Congratulations to Dorothy Peterson, Elin Gossen, and Brooklyn Bloom for qualifying for the 2026 National Showcase in Denver, bringing the club's national team total to seven! Get details on their upcoming competitions.

Watertown Schools Exceed State Metrics: Find out how the Watertown School District is reporting significant academic success, including a 93% on-time graduation rate (well above the state average of 86%) and strong college/career readiness indicators, as presented at the latest school board meeting.

SDSU Extension Conferences: Get the dates and registration details for the "Sustaining the Legacy" conferences for farming and ranching families, coming to Watertown in March 2026.

Renewable Fuel Standard Fight: South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley joins Iowa and Nebraska AGs in demanding a federal investigation into large oil refiners accused of skirting compliance with the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program.

Local & State Briefs: Hear about Aiden Calvert receiving the 2025 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award and the preliminary details on the fatal November 7th motorcycle crash near Watertown.

Don't miss a beat of the news impacting Northeast South Dakota!

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

Heroic Rescue in Watertown, American Education Week, and WACF Achieves Top National Standards

In this episode, Northeast Radio SD covers a dramatic local emergency, a major community accreditation, and the latest financial news from the Watertown School Board and Lake Area Technical College.

We bring you details on a serious vehicle incident in Watertown. Early this morning (14th Ave. NW), a pickup truck rolled into a ditch in a construction zone and caught fire. Hear how a quick-acting Codington County Sheriff’s deputy was the first on the scene and successfully pulled the seriously injured driver from the burning vehicle just moments before fire crews arrived. We also cover a separate rollover crash that occurred in rural Bryant due to slippery road conditions, requiring a driver to be extricated by emergency services.

American Education Week: Watertown Education Association president-elect Susie gives an update on the upcoming observance of American Education Week (November 17th-21st). Learn about the special tributes planned by the WEA and School Board to recognize the dedication of the district’s staff and the crucial, multifaceted role they play in shaping the community's future.

School District Finances: Business Manager Heidi Clausen delivers the October 2025 Financial Report. We review the General Fund’s $4.5 million cash balance, expenditures in the Capital Outlay fund (including final athletic complex payments), and the strong financial standing of LATC, which reported over $1 million in revenue and a notable contribution from Sanford for its Surgical Technology program.

Watertown Area Community Foundation (WACF) Reaccreditation: The WACF has once again earned the highest national accreditation for U.S. Community Foundations. Executive Director Cami Mengwasser explains what this reaccreditation means for public trust and accountability, confirming the WACF adheres to the nation’s 26 most rigorous standards for financial stewardship and integrity. The WACF maintains its long-standing legacy as South Dakota's first Community Foundation.

Tune in for your essential local news and community updates from Northeast Radio SD.

www.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 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

Today on the Northeast Radio SD Newscast, we bring you critical travel alerts, regional safety updates, and the inspiring details from a major community fundraiser.

✈️ Travel Alert for Watertown Regional Airport: Hear the latest advisory for travelers flying out of Watertown Regional Airport. Due to nationwide air traffic controller and TSA staffing shortages, the U.S. Department of Transportation has requested reduced airline traffic. Passengers are strongly urged to monitor their flight status for potential delays and cancellations.

⚠️ Regional Crash Reports: We report on two separate, serious vehicle incidents:

Tragedy near Webster: A 73-year-old Groton man has died from injuries sustained in an October 29th single-vehicle crash on US Highway 12.

Lake Poinsett Collision: Details on a two-vehicle collision near Lake Poinsett that resulted in one injury and a traffic citation.

🌟 The 33rd Annual Make-A-Wish Gala: A Record-Breaking Year!

We recap the incredible success of the Northeast Area Make-A-Wish Dinner and Auction, featuring remarks from CEO Sue Salter and event organizer Dee Dee Gilbertson.

Dee Dee Gilbertson confirms it was "another record-breaking year" for the event, which helps grant life-changing wishes for critically ill children.

Highlights include the competitive bidding on high-value items, including Pappy Van Winkle bourbon and the Devil's Tower golf package.

Listen to the inspiring segment on the featured special guest, speed painter David Garibaldi, sponsored by Jody and Scott Driscoll of Watertown Ford Chrysler, whose artwork sold for over $60,000!

Tune in for all the news affecting Northeast South Dakota.

#NortheastRadioSD #WatertownSD #MakeAWish #SouthDakotaNews #SDHighwayPatrol #TravelAlerts #CommunityGiving #Podcast

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

his episode brings you the key decisions and updates from Codington County!

The focus is on the unanimous County Commissioners' approval of $219,000 in state funds for the Watertown Boys and Girls Club to continue the successful Juvenile Diversion Program. Hear details from State's Attorney Bakken on this crucial youth rehabilitation initiative.

Also featured:

An update on Codington County 4-H, with educator Lehrer reporting a strong start to the new year and growing youth participation.

Veterans Service Officer Roberts reports a major achievement, securing over $1.48 million in retroactive compensation payments for local veterans and their dependents.

The results of Operation Prairie Thunder saturation patrols in the Sioux Falls area, which resulted in 59 arrests and numerous drug-related charges.

A special offer for Veterans Day (Tuesday, November 11th) from the Terry Redlin Art Center, honoring military service members with a complimentary print.

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

Published by Northeast Radio SD

District 5 Representative Josephine Garcia joins us for an in-depth, candid conversation breaking down her work on two critical interim legislative committees: the Medicinal Marijuana Oversight Committee (MMOC) and the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Interim Committee.

Key Discussion Points You'll Hear:

Rep. Garcia clarifies the difference between an Oversight Committee (which cannot introduce legislation) and an Interim Committee. She discusses the intense focus of the MMOC's recent meetings on:

Patient Access and Quality: Evaluating high-quality medical cannabis and the effectiveness of dispensaries.

Accountability and Misinformation: Garcia shares concerns regarding facts, accountability among state agencies, and the challenges of clearly separating the regulated medicinal industry from unregulated smoke shops.

Drawing on her medical background, Rep. Garcia highlights the severe, growing crisis in rural EMS across South Dakota:

Access Challenges: The reality of over an hour response times in some rural areas.

Funding and Volunteerism: The urgent need for sustainable financing and local control to support EMS providers, many of whom are volunteers.

Surprise Patient Cost: Learning that an ambulance ride, even when called via 911, is a direct cost to the patient and should be better triaged.

Representative Garcia advocates for transparency, education, and greater public engagement to tackle these complex issues ahead of the legislative session in January.

Listen in for a direct, fact-based summary of the work being done to improve public safety and regulation in South Dakota.

🔗 Related Links:

Check out the SD Legislature's committee meeting archives and live streams (SDNET)

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

This episode of the Northeast Radio SD News Wrap-Up brings you the latest decisions from the Watertown City Council and a major funding announcement for local economic development.

What We Cover:

$400,000 Boost for Development: Hear from the Watertown Development Company (WDC) on how a preliminary $400,000 state grant will significantly reduce partner costs for the Calvin Industrial Park Load Station Project. WDC Executive Director Chris Clifton discusses their critical role in facilitating high-risk industrial growth and the model that generates a substantial return on tax dollars.

Wastewater Rate Hike Approved: The City Council unanimously approved a rate increase of about $4.96 per month for the typical residential user, effective February 1, 2026. City Manager Stager explains how this necessary adjustment funds the $60 million wastewater treatment facility upgrade, a critical investment to support the city's capacity for growth beyond 30,000 residents.

New Card Transaction Fee: The Council approved a resolution allowing the city to charge a transaction processing fee (anticipated at ~3%) on card and e-check payments to offset rising costs. Plus, hear the Council's lively discussion regarding slow point-of-sale systems at city facilities like the Ice Arena.

Public Safety & Road Closure: Get details on the motor vehicle accident response by Watertown Fire Rescue (WFR) and their safety reminder for drivers. We also cover the upcoming 14th Avenue NW bridge replacement project starting November 10, 2025, and the long-term detour route.

Tune in to stay informed on the infrastructure investments and financial decisions shaping the future of Watertown and Codington County.

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

Tune in for the latest news from Watertown, featuring a detailed look at a residential fire, the City Council's initial review of the 2026 budget, key zoning decisions, and recent honors for the Watertown Police Department.

Residential Fire Response: Hear details about the Tuesday evening structure fire that Watertown Fire Rescue successfully contained, preventing major damage. Get the report on the occupants and pets involved, and learn where to find updated fundraising information for the affected family.

2026 Budget Unveiled: City Manager Alan Stager introduces the 2026 city budget ordinance for its first reading. Stager emphasizes a philosophy of fiscal flexibility and continuous accountability, viewing the budget as a plan subject to change rather than an automatic spending authority.

TIF Debt Clarified: Learn about the City's tax increment financing (TIF) debt obligations on TIF 5 (Willow Creek) and TIF 11 (Marketplace), as confirmed by Stager and Finance Officer Bobzine.

Major Zoning Approvals: Get the breakdown on two key property decisions:

The annexation of the Berger 3rd addition (26.8 acres south of Highway 212) and its designation as C-3 Highway Commercial District.

The first reading of a rezone request on West Kemp Avenue to shift a portion of a property from R2A Residential to C3 Highway Commercial for additional commercial storage.

Police Department Honored: Celebrate two significant honors awarded to Watertown Police Department personnel by the South Dakota Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics:

Captain Steve Rehorst received the Jim Hornby Unsung Hero Award for two decades of commitment, including organizing annual Polar Plunges.

Retired Assistant Chief Lonnie Greenfield was inducted into the LETR Hall of Fame for his long-standing efforts.

Don't miss this in-depth coverage of the issues shaping 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