Blue Cloud Abbey, Preparing for the Boom, Mason Jennings and Hobo Nephews of Uncle Frank

Dakota Midday - 06/21/2012

Abbot Dennis Quinkert talks about the closing of Blue Cloud Abbey. After 62 years, the Blue Cloud Abbey in northeast South Dakota is closing its doors. The abbey is east of Marvin, near Milbank, and monks living there labored in a role the church calls brother, taking a vow of celibacy and ministering inside and outside the walls. Some monks went on to further study to become priests. Over the years the monks ran a print shop, made vestments and raised livestock and vegetables to support themselves. The abbey also offered a popular retreat for guests, including South Dakota writer Kathleen Norris.

Derric Isles, Geological Survey Program Administrator for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, talks about the South Dakota oil boom from a geological standpoint.

Pop/folk singer/songwriter Mason Jennings joins Dakota Midday to talk about his upcoming performance at this weekend's 605 Summer Classic in downtown Sioux Falls. Also, Ian Alexy from the band Hobo Nephews of Uncle Frank talks about the band's upcoming gig this evening at Latitude 44 in Sioux Falls.

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