Episodes

  • Erin Nosel..Community Action For Veterans...Retreat for Women Vets...April 11

    Erin Nosel..Community Action For Veterans...Retreat for Women Vets...April 11
    Mar 21 2026

    Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Erin Nosal, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Community Action For Veterans.

    from AI:

    Community Action for Veterans (CAV) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, dedicated to building communities of care for veterans and military families. CAV focuses on addressing unique challenges faced by veterans through programs like Operation Chow Line, women veterans' retreats, and a major annual summit. The organization also runs AmeriCorps-supported initiatives to help veterans transition to civilian life, particularly in education and mental health support.

    from their website:

    Women Vets Connect Retreat

    Sat, Apr 11

    Our Savior's Lutheran Church ELCAA

    Wellness Retreat for Women Veterans and Military Partners

    Rooted in South Dakota, Built for Veterans

    South Dakota is a state defined by its land and its people. From the ranchlands of the west to the farmlands of the east, we know what it means to face distance, weather, and hardship together. Our communities are small, but our commitment to one another is strong. That spirit is the foundation of CAV.

    Contact

    Community Action for Veterans

    P.O Box 91543

    Sioux Falls, SD 57109

    605-910-4045

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    30 mins
  • Duell Higbe and Ali Linder of the SF Canaries, Summer of Baseball, 50 Home games, Bobbleheads and More

    Duell Higbe and Ali Linder of the SF Canaries, Summer of Baseball, 50 Home games, Bobbleheads and More
    Mar 13 2026

    Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Canaries General Manager Duell Higbe and Ali Linder, Director of Marketing and Games Experience.

    From Brave AI:

    Sioux Falls Canaries

    The Sioux Falls Canaries are a professional baseball team based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, competing in the American Association. They play their home games at The Birdcage, a historic stadium located at 1001 N. West Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, which has been renovated and now serves as a cashless facility. The team is known for family-friendly events, including mascot appearances, on-field entertainment, and affordable tickets.

    Recent highlights include the team's announcement of returning key players for the 2026 season, such as Jabari Henry, Charlie Hasty, and Trevor Achenbach, signaling a strong push for success. Fans are encouraged to stay updated through the team’s newsletter and app.

    Reviews praise The Birdcage as a top-tier minor league experience—great sightlines, friendly staff, and lively atmosphere—with families enjoying activities like singing the YMCA between innings and enjoying popcorn and cotton candy. The stadium, originally opened in 1941 and renovated in 2000, holds 4,500 fans and is considered one of the premier sporting events in the region.

    From their website:

    Duell Higbe enters his 14th season with the Sioux Falls
    Canaries and tenth as General Manager, rising through
    the organization since joining in 2013 as a stadium
    operations intern. A native of Austin, Minnesota, he
    earned his bachelor’s degree in Sport Management
    (with a minor in Exercise Science) from Mayville State
    University.
    Since taking the helm in the front office, Higbe has
    helped guide the organization through a dramatic
    turnaround: under his leadership, the Canaries
    achieved three consecutive playoff appearances
    (2023–2025) — a first in franchise history. In the 2025
    season, he oversaw a club that clinched a playoff berth
    for the third straight year and advanced to the
    franchise’s first appearance in the Miles Wolff Cup
    Final since 2010.
    Beyond the wins and milestones, Higbe focuses on
    building a culture of consistency, professional
    operations, and deep community engagement. Off the
    field, he and his team have emphasized enhancing the
    fan experience at “The Birdcage",
    strengthening local partnerships, and reinforcing the Canaries as a
    cornerstone of the Sioux Falls sports landscape.

    Ali Linder:
    Entering her sixth season with the Sioux Falls Canaries
    and fifth as a full-time staff member, Ali Lindner has
    continued to take on expanded responsibilities since
    joining the organization in 2021 as a game day intern.
    A Sioux Falls native, Lindner returned home after
    earning her bachelor’s degree in Sports Management
    from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, where
    she was also a member of the Golden Gophers softball
    team and made an appearance in the Women’s College
    World Series during her freshman year.
    Since joining the Canaries full-time, Lindner has taken
    on a key leadership role within the front office,
    overseeing marketing, social media, game day
    entertainment, and the team’s internship program. Her
    focus on fan engagement and in-game experience has
    helped elevate the atmosphere at The Birdcage,
    creating memorable moments for fans of all ages.
    Outside of work, Ali enjoys spending time with family
    and friends, traveling, listening to music, and golfing.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    29 mins
  • Doug Johnson...Huset's...Jackson Speedway...Golf...BBQ...Sprints...Camping...$300,000

    Doug Johnson...Huset's...Jackson Speedway...Golf...BBQ...Sprints...Camping...$300,000
    Mar 6 2026

    Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Doug Johnson of Huset's Speedway.

    from Brave AI:

    Doug Johnson, the General Manager of Huset’s Speedway in Brandon, South Dakota, has played a central role in transforming the historic track into a premier racing destination since its reopening in 2020 under new ownership by Tod Quiring. Johnson, previously with Jackson Motorplex in Minnesota, led efforts to revitalize the facility, including significant track improvements such as increased banking (14–16 degrees), enhanced seating for 8,200 fans, and the addition of VIP suites, a backstretch viewing platform, and a full-service campground.

    He has been instrumental in securing major events like the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars and the USAC Nationals, and has emphasized fan and driver experience, with a focus on efficient race timing (goal: complete events by 10:15 PM) and logistical planning. Johnson was named Dirt Track Promoter of the Year in the Northern Region in 2022 and has been key in expanding Huset’s Speedway’s profile, including a partnership with iRacing to create a millimeter-accurate digital replica of the track.

    The track continues to grow, with plans for new construction, expanded events, and special attractions like concerts, aiming to make Huset’s Speedway a year-round entertainment destination.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    30 mins
  • Bernie Tyrell from Cola Syrup Racing Floors, Car Shows, Rat Rods to Air Shows

    Bernie Tyrell from Cola Syrup Racing Floors, Car Shows, Rat Rods to Air Shows
    Mar 6 2026

    Bernard L. Tyrrell, known as Bernie Tyrrell, is a resident of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, with a long-standing connection to the local community through car shows and business ventures.

    • From Yale (SD)

    • Community Involvement: Bernie Tyrrell is a key organizer of the Automania car show in Valley Springs, South Dakota, which has been held annually since 2007. He has been involved in multiple events, including the 2024 show, where he helped highlight a custom-built 1964 Shelby Daytona Coupe project for a local cancer patient.

    • Additional Events: He has also participated in the Canton car show, emphasizing community bonding and the cultural significance of classic cars.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    29 mins
  • Horizon Health - 27 Clinics - 19 South Dakota Rural Towns - 200 Employees

    Horizon Health - 27 Clinics - 19 South Dakota Rural Towns - 200 Employees
    Feb 1 2026
    Public Affairs Director, Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Brady Kerkman, Director of Development of Horizon Health Care in South Dakota. (HOWARD, SD) – The Horizon Health Foundation will be hosting a raffle during its Drive It Home ’26 campaign that kicked off on January 19th.Car Raffle Flyer The campaign is set to raise $100,000 to support the purchase of chronic care kits as part of Pillar II of the Healthier Horizons program. Only 800 tickets are available for the Drive It Home ’26 Campaign raffle drawing. The first prize is a 2026 Chevy Trax LT, the second prize is a half a hog and a deep freeze, and the third prize is a $500 local gas card. Tickets can be purchased at www.horizonhealthcare.org/foundation The campaign will fund chronic care kits for Horizon Health patients managing diabetes, cardiovascular and dental disease. In 2025, 242 patients were enrolled in Horizon’s Chronic Care Management Program. This resource provides additional support from primary care providers and their teams to Medicare patients with two or more chronic conditions. The care kits would give additional assistance to these patients and any Horizon Health patient managing diabetes, cardiac or dental disease. “Care kits for our dental patients are an essential resource to improve and maintain their dental health,” Horizon’s Chief Dental Officer, Dr. Michelle Scholtz, DDS, said. “Some of our patients have dental concerns that have gone untreated for years due to lack of accessibility to care. These kits help them to maintain their dental health and keep them on track for a healthy smile.” “We are excited to provide added value to our patients with care kits they can use at home to help manage their chronic illnesses,” said Misty Rudebusch, MPAS, PA-C, Horizon’s Chief Medical Officer. “The care kits will help them reach positive milestones on their wellness journey and give them tools to take further ownership of their health.” A Chili Cook-Off to support the raffle campaign is scheduled for Feb. 20 from 6-8 p.m. at the Riverfront Event Center in Yankton. The cook-off will feature local chilis, cinnamon rolls and entertainment by a regionally known comedian. Attendees will choose the top chef in the cook-off contest. RSVP by Feb. 6 by texting or calling 605-610-8048 to be entered into the raffle to win one of two $500 cash prizes to be given away that evening. You must be present to win. Entry to the event is free but donations are appreciated to help support the Drive It Home ’26 Campaign. “The Drive It Home ’26 Campaign is truly about putting patients in the driver’s seat for their health care needs, through a combination of providing them with necessary chronic health kits, prevention, and education,” said Brady L. Kerkman, Director of Development for Horizon Health Foundation. Raffle prize winners will be drawn at the Dueling Pianos event scheduled from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., April 18 at The Pointe in Elk Point, SD. You need not be present to win. Sponsors of the Drive it Home ’26 Campaign include Rupiper Tours, Sanford Laboratories, First Dakota, SDN Communications, Prostrollo Auto Mall, Lindy Land & Livestock, Elk Point Ace Hardware, and See The Trainer. A sincere thank you to each of these sponsors who made this campaign possible. Contact Brady L. Kerkman at 605-610-8048 for more information about the raffle, cook-off and Dueling Pianos events. At Horizon Health, we’re focused on what’s real and what’s rural. With advanced technology and a personal touch, we deliver medical, dental and behavioral healthcare that’s open to everyone. Because the strength of a community isn’t measured by size. It’s measured by how much we care. Horizon Health provides dental, medical, and behavioral health services at 27 medical and dental clinics in 19 rural South Dakota communities. Horizon Health provides patient-centered, quality care that’s personalized for rural South Dakota. Our patients are our neighbors. Our communities are our homes. And the wellness of those areas is vital to our way of life. For us, healthcare isn’t just a service we provide. It’s our mission. As a Community Health Center, Horizon offers high-quality, affordable coverage in medical, dental and behavioral health with an invested presence in the communities we serve. We are primary care providers who care. And we’ve been nationally recognized for it by the Health Resources and Service Administration, among others. With a dedication to rural health, we offer leading edge technology and telemedicine capabilities, working with providers and specialists virtually anywhere in the country. In addition to urgent care services, we emphasize primary care, providing whole health medicine and wellness throughout your life. The health of our neighbors reflects the health of rural South Dakota. That’s why Horizon Health chooses to be here, and nowhere else. Every day we’re dedicated to caring for our ...
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    30 mins
  • Todd Epp: Balancing Home Caretaker of His Father and Radio Analyst of the SD Legislature

    Todd Epp: Balancing Home Caretaker of His Father and Radio Analyst of the SD Legislature
    Jan 24 2026

    Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels, (since 1973) talks with Todd Epp about being a home caretaker of his father and news analyst of the South Dakota State Legislature.

    from chat gpt:

    Todd Epp in the Sioux Falls, South Dakota area is a local journalist, attorney, radio news contributor, and media writer known for covering community news, local government, and public affairs topics.

    📌 Who He Is

    • Journalist & Writer: Todd Epp has written news and feature articles for outlets like KELO.com and local sports/media sites, reporting on a range of topics including local government, community events, and Civil Air Patrol activities.

    • Radio Contributor: He has appeared as a radio news reporter and commentator in South Dakota media.

    • Attorney & Consultant: In addition to journalism, Epp is identified as an attorney involved in legal and consulting work.

    • Community Involvement: He’s been active in community reporting and has held roles such as incident commander for Civil Air Patrol exercises in the Sioux Falls region.

    Overall, Todd Epp is a multifaceted local media figure and professional who engages with Sioux Falls news, law, and community issues through writing, reporting, and public outreach.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    30 mins
  • Human Trafficking in Sioux Falls and South Dakota - 10 Years of Call to Freedom

    Human Trafficking in Sioux Falls and South Dakota - 10 Years of Call to Freedom
    Jan 18 2026
    Public Director Jon Michaels, since 1977, talks with Becky Rasmussen, President and CEO, and Rachel Foltz, Director of Impact and Program Relations of Call to Freedom. from the internet: THE PROBLEM Human trafficking is the illegal trade of human beings for the purposes of forced labor or sex trafficking. As the world’s fastest growing criminal industry, it affects every corner of the globe—including the state of South Dakota. It is a $150 billion dollar criminal industry that denies freedom to millions of people around the world. Every day, men, women, and children are being exploited for commercial sex or manual labor against their will. It is estimated that less than 1% of victims are ever identified. Many return to “the life” (streets), end up in jail or prison, or simply disappear due to a lack of specialized long-term care for survivors. Who We Are Sex and labor trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation occur at growing rates across the United States, including in the state of South Dakota. Several intersecting factors, including extreme poverty, geographic isolation, and homelessness, result in high levels of victimization across the state. Call to Freedom is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in South Dakota dedicated to bringing wholeness to all individuals impacted by sex and labor trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation. Founded in 2016, Call to Freedom hired its first full-time staff member in 2018 and has grown to 26 full-time staff united by their passion for ensuring survivors of trafficking and exploitation are believed and supported by their community. Staff members bring decades of experience combatting violence and providing community-based services and include previous South Dakota Department of Corrections staff, social workers, law enforcement, and addiction recovery specialists. The majority of our direct service staff had worked with Call to Freedom in their prior roles as community-based service providers and joined call to Freedom because of their passion for its holistic, person-centered approach. Our staff are uniquely positioned to serve trafficking survivors, given their experience working with people who have experienced trauma, responding to crisis situations, and identifying community resources available within the Sioux Falls community and across South Dakota. Call To Freedom Statement of Faith: We model Christ in our approach to restore wholeness to those impacted by sex and labor trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation. Mission: Call to Freedom brings wholeness to all individuals impacted by sex and labor trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation by navigating a healing path through our continuum of care model. Vision: Our vision is to create a comprehensive CommUnity model of care for individuals, and support communities while educating and advocating to combat sex and labor trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation. Barriers that prevent identification Individuals who are at risk of trafficking or who have experienced trafficking are often not recognized for various reasons. These barriers to identification fall into two categories: individual-related and provider-related. Provider Related Barriers Lacks knowledge about human trafficking“Checks off boxes” without seeing the full situationInadequate understanding of lawsFears violating HIPAA rulesLacks trauma-informed care trainingDoes not believe it is their role to get involvedLacks access to neutral, professional interpretersThinks that asking will be time-consuming or too complexFeels the individual is unresponsive or hostile to questioningLacks information about referral optionsAttributes behavior(s) to harmful cultural stereotypesHas preconceived notions of how an individual who has experienced trafficking will behave or lookIndividual Related Barriers Lacks awareness that what they are experiencing is traffickingLacks understanding of victim and legal rightsLacks identification and other recordsHas a language barrierFears deportation or law enforcementFears that reporting could lead to being returned to an abusive home, jail, or foster care placementFeels complicit in an illegal actFears that traffickers will cause harm to self, family, or loved onesHas limited literacy and education that hinders ability to communicateHas experienced trauma bonding with the trafficker or other victimsDistrusts the provider or those in authorityFeels hopeless and helplessFeels shame or guiltFor more information on the barriers that prevent identification, visit National Human Trafficking Training and Technical Assistance Center Is it an indicator of trafficking? A variety of flags can be indicators of trafficking. The examples listed are not definitive, and not every individual will present the same flags. Additionally, seeing one or two indicators doesn’t necessarily mean that something is happening to you, it simply lets you know that you should probably step back and take another look at ...
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    30 mins
  • YES YOU CAN TAILGATE IN JANUARY IN SIOUX FALLS

    YES YOU CAN TAILGATE IN JANUARY IN SIOUX FALLS
    Jan 11 2026

    Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Tailgate Country. From the open mic right here in Sioux Falls at the Levitt to the NFL Tailgating Troubadours...now performing in Sioux Falls for a worthy cause. Dennis Cockerham and Jason Babbass talk about Tailgates to Turning Points.

    “From Tailgates to Turning Points” is a Sioux Falls fundraiser, live concert, and music video premiere boasting local tailgate fans. Hosted at Den Cocktails & Casino, 909 N West Ave, Saturday January 24, 3pm-5pm. Headlined by Sioux Falls very own NFL reclaimed Trailer Park Country to support the local Alternatives to Violence Project. This event turns competition into a message that “rivalry does not equal violence,” using live local country music, tailgate energy, and Dennis Cockerham’s redemption story to raise awareness and funds for AVP’s conflict‑transformation workshops in our prisons and community.
    We invite your station to help promote this positive local story at no cost—spotlighting Sioux Falls fans, and artists coming together to show that we can cheer hard, stand together, and choose nonviolence.
    We’re also offering free interview slots with TrailerPark Country performers and local Alternatives to Violence Project organizers, who can share powerful personal stories and concrete details about how this event will impact Sioux Falls.

    TrailerPark Country was born out of a love for music, community, and the fans of sporting events everywhere. Our journey began in Sioux Falls SD, where a group of friends with a shared passion for all things music and fan related decided to create something special. With our roots deeply embedded in the trailer park culture, we strive to bring people together through live music events, tailgating parties, and a thriving fan community. Our dedication to providing a unique and unforgettable experience sets us apart, making TrailerPark Country the ultimate destination for all sports fans and music lovers.

    The Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) is a volunteer-run conflict transformation program. Teams of trained AVP facilitators conduct experiential workshops to develop participants' abilities to resolve conflicts without resorting to manipulation, coercion, or violence. Typically, each workshop lasts 18–20 hours over a two or three-day period. The workshop events place a strong emphasis on the experiences of the participants, building confidence that everyone contributes something of value to violence prevention. AVP groups and facilitators are active in communities and prisons across the United States and in many other countries.[1]

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    30 mins