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Jon Michaels' Forum

Jon Michaels' Forum

By: MWC
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A community issues and answering program that focuses on the city and people of the Sioux Empire.2026 Midwest Communications Inc. Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Sioux Falls Air Show, Power On The Prairie, 80th Anniversary of the SD Air Guard
    Apr 18 2026

    Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels, (since 1977) talks Lisa Hirsch, President of the Sioux Falls Air Show.

    from their Facebook pages:

    Legendary WWII Fighters Coming to Power on the Prairie! The Sioux Falls Airshow – Power on the Prairie is proud to welcome WPP Legacy Warbirds with an incredible lineup of historic World War II fighters:• P-51D Mustang – One of the most iconic fighters of WWII, the Mustang escorted Allied bombers deep into enemy territory and helped secure air superiority in Europe.• F4U Corsair – Instantly recognizable by its inverted gull wings, the Corsair became one of the most successful naval fighters of the war and a legend in the Pacific Theater.• FM-2 Wildcat – A rugged carrier-based fighter with a strong connection to South Dakota hero Joe Foss, the Marine Corps ace who scored 26 aerial victories flying the Wildcat in the Pacific .Seeing these aircraft together is like watching living history take flight, honoring the pilots and crews who flew them in defense of freedom. Be sure to check out our webpage for a full list of performers and static aircraft on display. Power on the Prairie 2026 July 18–19, 2026 Joe Foss Field – Sioux Falls Regional Airport

    Would you ride in a World War II bomber if you had the chance? Something rare is flying into Sioux Falls this summer. A World War II bomber — one of the last flying in the entire world — will land at Sioux Falls Regional Airport this July. And people here will be able to ride in it. The historic B-29 Superfortress known as “DOC” is coming to Sioux Falls July 13–16 as part of the B-29 DOC History Restored Flight Experience Tour. The aircraft will offer ride flights July 14 and 15 before the major Power on the Prairie Airshow later that week.DOC is one of only two airworthy B-29 bombers still flying anywhere on Earth. The aircraft was originally built in 1944 during World War II and has been fully restored into a flying museum that travels across the country. For Sioux Falls locals, this is more than another event. It is a chance to step inside a piece of history that helped shape the outcome of the war and the future of aviation. The timing is also intentional. DOC will arrive just days before the Sioux Falls Power on the Prairie Airshow on July 18–19, which will bring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and several historic aircraft to the city. Events like this rarely stop in the region, which makes this one of the more unique Sioux Falls events coming this summer. If you follow Sioux Falls news or enjoy finding unique things happening in Sioux Falls, this is the type of local experience people travel hours to see. And for a few people… it will be the chance to fly in a WWII bomber.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    30 mins
  • 69th Annual Sioux Falls Lions Club Pancake Days Tues. April 15 - Wed. April 15
    Apr 12 2026

    Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Lion Todd Smith about the Pancake Days.

    From AI:

    The 69th Annual Sioux Falls Lions Club Pancake Days is scheduled for Tuesday, April 14, and Wednesday, April 15, 2026, taking place at the Denny Sanford Premier Center (formerly the Sioux Falls Convention Center).

    Event Details and Schedule The event operates on a two-day schedule with extended hours to serve the community:

    • Tuesday, April 14: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

    • Wednesday, April 15: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM

    Scale and Operations This massive fundraiser serves over 10,000 people across 16 hours, featuring approximately 60,000 pancakes and 38,000 sausages cooked on 11 grills by trained volunteers. Despite the high volume, the line moves quickly with a typical rush-hour wait time of only 20 to 25 minutes.

    History and Purpose Originally known as Aunt Jemima Pancake Days, the tradition began in April 1957 and has grown from a 4-griddle operation to a 69-year community staple. The proceeds support local charities, including vision and hearing impaired initiatives, the McCrossan Boys Ranch, and eyeglass recycling programs.

    Ticket Information Tickets are available for purchase in advance at Lewis Drug, Hy-Vee, and Ace Hardware locations, or at the door.

    AI-generated answer

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    30 mins
  • Lifelight, Z8, Willie Robertson of Duck Dynasty, Downtown Sioux Falls, Sept. 6
    Apr 3 2026

    Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Savannah Waldner, Z8 Director and Josh Brewer, CEO of Lifelight about the 2026 programs.

    from their website: Lifelight.org

    Why Gen Z?

    Generation Z is on track to become the largest living generation in American history. While often labeled as a “post-Christian” generation, we see them differently. They are world changers, making an eternal impact in their world. Z8 is on a mission to awaken these young people as world changers – to win, send, empower, and multiply them for Christ.
    A study once said Generation Z has an eight-second attention span. At LifeLight we believe they have an eight-second filter. In a world full of noise, young people are constantly deciding what’s real and what’s worth their time. Z8 is our commitment to meet them in that moment – cutting through the noise with the clear truth of the Gospel. Because when they encounter what’s real, they respond.

    and on Sept. 6

    Set against the beauty of downtown Sioux Falls the LifeLight Festival is a dynamic, free event that brings together people of all ages for a powerful celebration of faith, music, and community. Featuring an impressive lineup of Christian music artists, inspiring speakers, and exciting family-friendly entertainment, the festival offers a unique experience filled with uplifting messages and memorable performances. Beyond music, the festival grounds are filled with family-friendly activities, food trucks, and vendors, all designed to create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. LifeLight Festival’s mission is to share the hope and joy of the Gospel, making it a highlight in the region for fellowship and renewal.

    Willie Robertson from Duck Dynasty is coming to LifeLight Sioux Falls on September 6th at Nelson Park!!!The beard, the wisdom, the faith, the duck calls — the man who built an empire while putting God first is bringing that real, no-filter energy to our city! If you’ve ever loved the Robertson family, laughed at their stories, or been encouraged by their bold stand for Jesus… this is the day you’ve been waiting for! Get ready for epic music, powerful worship, and a message that’s gonna light a fire in your soul. This free festival is about to be UNFORGETTABLE! Who’s coming with me?! Tag your people, and let’s pack Nelson Park for Willie!

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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    29 mins
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