KJAM Runs with High-Seas Adventure, Misses the Dog

KJAM runs the Olson boat adventure this morning, but with barely a tenth of the pinache and gusto of Dakota War College's breaking of the story. KJAM offers an explanation of how the unlucky couple ended up in the green murk of Lake Madison (rule #1: don't stand up in the boat, kids!), but they don't mention the Honorable Representative Olson (who fishes with his cell phone -- the man is always connected) or the dog in the boat. (When you run human interest stories, always mention the dog.)

KJAM does give props to daring and dashing GF&P Conservation Officer Brandon Gust who rode out with Olson to bring the driverless boat under control (and save the dog!):

Gust leapt into the boat and was able to bring it to a stop, but it doesnt sound like Gust has any plans of making the leap again any time soon.

Apparently Officer Gust will be spending eternity in this errant boat.

KJAM concludes the report by saying there were no major injuries and no word on whether alcohol was involved.

---
Update: MDL comes in last but not least, giving us full details in its August 7 edition. We learn the couple who went for the unexpected swim were Bart Jones and Kathy Lacey (nothing like having your first date make the papers). The Honorable Representative Olson's girlfriend: Jennie Theophilis of Sioux Falls (nothing like having your fishing date make the papers). Olson's cousin: 13-year-old Sammy (no comment from him in the story). Helping on shore: Jolene Dohrer and a mysterious Becky. MDL confirms the presence of a Labrador retriever in the boat but also fails to update us on the dog's condition (poor thing!).

MDL also finally gives Olson a chance to voice the biggest reason we tell these stories: "According to Olson, the incident drove home the importance of boat safety and carrying throwable flotation devices." Be careful out there, kids!