Gifts Become Issue For Sioux Empire Fair

The Sioux Empire Fair board has ended its relationship with fair manager Matt Adamski.

The manager had resigned amid a financial storm but had said he would stay until April 14 to help with the transition.

But on Wednesday, the board decided to make his resignation effective immediately.

Adamski has acknowledged receiving thousands of dollars in gifts from former fair association office manager Kathleen Gourley of Salem, who is being charged with aggravated grand theft.

Adamski has not been charged with any crimes.

Officials think Gourley embezzled almost $250,000 and that she used some of the money to purchase items for Adamski.