For story contributions or issues with the South Dakota wire, call 605-332-3111 or 800-952-9911, e-mail apsiouxfalls(at)ap.org or fax to 605-332-3931.

If you're having problems with your AP equipment or software, call 800-552-7252.

To reach AP Network News in Washington, call 800-424-8804.

Other information can be found at http://www.ap.org/southdakota or http://www.apbroadcast.com.

The Associated Press is a cooperative of news organizations that relies on contributions from its members.

When contributing to the wire, a good rule of thumb to ask is: "If this story had happened elsewhere in the state, would I use it in my newscast?" If the answer is yes, then please pass it along to the wire.

AP MEMBERS STATEWIDE WANT: Train wrecks, airplane crashes, drownings, unusual deaths, farm and traffic fatalities.

Meetings where action of statewide interest is taken or a prominent person speaks.

Riots, demonstrations, strikes.

Major fires, explosions, chemical spills.

Weather news, including ice and hail storms, heavy snow, Tornadoes, blizzards, flooding, heavy and damaging rainstorms, record heat and cold. Often, weather details from around the state will be collected and filed in one round-up story.

Human interest stories; the odd, offbeat, the heartwarming; whatever makes people laugh or cry.

NOT OF STATEWIDE INTEREST: Routine city council, school board or other public meetings.

Nonfatal auto or boating accidents, unless the circumstances are unusual.

Minor stabbings and shootings; petty crimes; minor house, farm, building or range fires.

Suicides or obituaries, unless the person is known statewide or unusual circumstances are involved.

Publicity handouts, including local pageant winners, fund-raisers and charity events.

PLEASE REMEMBER Include pronouncers, name spellings and attribution.

Offer finished stories, notes or just tips.

Whether your story is used, and how soon, may depend on the news flow of any given day. We encourage and appreciate all story offerings.

Thank you for helping to make the broadcast wire strong for all its members.

AP Broadcast, Sioux Falls (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-10-09 0500CST | save this article / add to your favorites list