Get Free from Smoking Starting Tomorrow

A series of programs called “Freedom From Smoking” begins tomorrow in Sioux Falls. The Argus Leader reports they're sponsored by Health Connect of South Dakota and the American Lung Association. The program costs $89. Sessions begin at 5:30 p.m. at Health Connect at 737 W. 10th St. They run for seven Tuesdays from Feb. 1 to March 15. Discussion will cover tobacco addiction, behavior and success with a quit date on day 22. For details, call 336-7222, 371-1000 or 888-761-5437.

Brandon City Council holds special session

If you feel like venturing out tonight, the Brandon City Council will meet in special session, beginning at 5:30 p.m. tonight, in the Council chambers, to continue discussion on capital improvement projects for the city. The meeting is open to the public.

Snow and bitter cold expected to continue

Snow is on the minds of many in the middle of the country today. The National Weather service says snow won't taper off for us until sometime during the day Tuesday. Blowing snow will be a problem as winds increase, and wind chills will drop temperatures to 15 to 30 below zero tonight. Wednesday's high may not get above zero.

911 Surcharge

A new proposal by County Commissioners pushes for a larger 911 surcharge.
Currently, users pay 75 cents per phone line each month to cover costs, but that rate was set 20 years ago and that money doesn't go as far is it did back then. Local government pays the difference which is becoming a real struggle for Minnehaha County in lean years like. Commissioners are looking to fill an $800,000 dollar budget hole.

Casino

Minnehaha County officials are gathering input on what kinds of future development are possible along the main road leading from Sioux Falls to where a new Iowa casino is being built. Discussion is under way on how best to develop the Red Rock Corridor, which consists of the land along Highway 42 from about Six Mile Road to the Iowa/South Dakota border.

BedBugs Making Comeback

Get ready for your skin to crawl. Bedbugs. Those creepy crawly critters of folk lore we' re always warned about not letting them bite as we slumber are making a comeback. The population of bedbugs have boomed over the past several years with the outlawing of DDT. When bedbugs are found early, they're easily controlled, experts say. Unfortunately, they're difficult to discover unless there's a massive infestation. Brown Spots in matteress cevices is a good indicator of the parasites.

USF Hoopsters Suspended After Arrest

Two University of Sioux Falls basketball players are in trouble after being arrested early this morning. KELO reports Sioux Falls Police arrested Eric Tisby for assault, and Matt Malloy for driving drunk. This happened after an alteration at a convenience store the two had been asked to leave. USF's suspended them from the team for rules violations.

Life in Prison for DUI Death

A Sioux Falls man convicted nine times for DUI, has been sentenced to life in prison for his role in a police chase in December 2009, that killed a school janitor. 31-year old Jason Larsen-Smith, the man sentenced, has permanent brain damage from that crash. He'd be released from prison just 3 months before, for a previous DUI.

Legislative Coffee moved

We mentioned this week that the Brandon Valley school district could be facing a $2.7 million budget shortfall if proposals by the governor are passed. That could mean a reduction in programs, or layoffs and other cuts. Dave Pappone, Brandon Valley Superintendent, invited all those who wanted to support the district, to the legislative coffee on Saturday at 9:00 a.m. at Tailgator's. That has been moved to the Performing Arts Center at Brandon Valley High school.

Polar Bear Plunge

Come and watch your favorite teachers from the Brandon Valley School Districtand many more as they jump in the freezing cold water in support of Special Olympics. There will be music, costumes, souvenirs, and much more.

Date: Saturday, January 29th
Time: 12:00 pm
Where: High School Parking Lot (Look for the big polar bear)

Manslaughter

The 2nd man accused of beating to death a Sioux Falls man pleaded guilty to manslaughter.
Police say Payton Strum helped the co-defendant in this case, Benjamin Carter kill 27 year old Joseph Cynkar in July.
Carter Pleaded guilty in December.

Sell Surplus State Land for Economic Development

Gov. Daugaard's asking the Legislature to approve the sale of surplus state-owned land and related personal property in several counties to help raise money for economic development grants and loans. The Argus Leader reports some of the land is in Minnehaha County, and currently owned by the Department of Corrections.

Rapid City Prison Construction Funds

A state senate committee's approved almost $2-million to finish a new minimum-security prison in Rapid City. The money for construction will come from the current Corrections Department budget and not general state tax revenue. KDLT reports The prison will hold over 400 inmates. Prison officials say it'll let inmates nearing the end of their sentences take part in work-release and other programs aimed at helping them succeed once they are released.

2nd Manslaughter Plea in Cynkar Murder

The second of two men arrested for the murder of Joseph Cynkar in his Sioux Falls home last year plead guilty today to manslaughter. 23-year old Payton Strum was charged with murder, arson and robbery. KELO reports Benjamin Carter plead guilty to manslaughter in the same case last month. Both will be sentenced at a later date.

Concerns about school budget cuts in Brandon

The Brandon Valley school district could be facing a $2.7 million budget shortfall if proposals are passed by the governor. That could mean a reduction in programs, or layoffs and other cuts. Dave Pappone, Brandon Valley Superintendent, invites those who want to support the district, to the legislative coffee on Saturday at 9:00 a.m. at Tailgator’s. Legislators will be gauging our concern, in part, by how many people they hear from. Pappone also urges you to email District 10 legislators with your opinions.

http://legis.state.sd.us/sessions/2011/MemberMenu.aspx

Police Pursuit Lands Man in Jail

A 28-year-old man is in jail this morning after leading police on a high speed chase in Minnehaha County. It started with Sioux Falls Police checking a report of people going through cars in a parking lot on W Hovland. That's when a chase started, that ended at Hieberts Greenhouse on 264th street, where police say 28-year old Ronnie Young tried to get away stealing a delivery truck. Young's charged with DWI-his 2nd, Reckless Driving, Open Container, Burglary, Grand Theft and warrants out for his arrest.

Minnehaha County's Surprise Budget Gap

Just a couple of weeks into the new year, Minnehaha County's looking for ways to fill in an $800-thousand budget hole. They were expecting $1.5-million this year from the bank franchise tax. They got less than $700-thousand. Commissioners say they'll look for cuts in the biggest areas of the budget first--police, states attorney and public defender. They say they're not thinking about raising taxes

Stolen truck leads to DWI arrest

28-year-old Ronnie Russell Young from the Hurley and Lennox area was arrested after allegedly fleeing from Sioux Falls Police and stealing a vehicle this morning. Charges include DWI 2nd offense, aggravated eluding, reckless driving, open container, third degree burglary, grand theft and warrants. The stolen truck was returned to the owner. Police are investigating other possible thefts involving Young.

Polar Plunge this weekend in Brandon

Some very brave souls will take the very first polar plunge this Saturday in Brandon. It will actually be a leap into an oversized construction dumpster filled with ice cold water. It all gets under way at noon in the west parking lot of the high school. Participants on nine teams will make the leap for Special Olympics of South Dakota and Brandon Valley Special Olympics programs.

Dance Classic

Dakota Spirit is hosting the 10th annual Valentines Classic on Saturday and Sunday at the Sioux Falls Convention Center.
The event will host more than 160 of the top cheer and dance teams in the five-state area.
The Valentine’s Classic will begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday

Minnehaha County Down 800 Thousand

Minnehaha County Commissioners will have to revisit the budget because the bank franchise tax is down. This means the county's budget is short $800,000. The county planned on getting $1.5 million this year. Instead, the county received a check for less than $700,000, leaving the county scrambling to fill an $800,000 hole.

Gun Lawsuit Moves

Lawyers for the state stated want a judge to dismiss the secretary of state as defendant in a lawsuit alleging South Dakota's concealed weapons law is discriminatory because it requires the permit holder to be a United States citizen. The attorney general’s office says the secretary of state provides appropriate forms and keeps a record of concealed permits, but has no authority to issue or deny a permit. Permits are the responsibility of local sheriff's.

Immigration Reform Legislature

Several South Dakota Republicans disappointed with immigration enforcement uncertainties in the state plan to debate the issue in the Legislature with the introduction of Arizona-style enforcement legislation. The bill is one of dozens proposed in state legislatures nationwide that would give more authority to local law enforcement officials to detain suspected illegal immigrants.

Farm show kicks off

About 30 thousand people are expected at this year's farm show, kicking off this afternoon at the fairgrounds in Sioux Falls. The Sioux Empire Farm Show will showcase animal competitions through Saturday. The commercial exhibit part of the event is tomorrow through Friday at the fairgrounds and also at the Sioux Falls Convention Center and Arena.

Sanford donation goes to breast cancer

Sanford Health is getting a $100 million gift from Sioux Falls businessman and philanthropist T. Denny Sanford. We've learned now the money will go toward a breast cancer initiative that will include a center for research, diagnosis and treatment. Officials plan to release more details in August.

36th Tattoo coming

So far it's 35 Sunny logo tattoos, with the 36th scheduled for Wednesday. It all started during an on-air conversation between John and Heidi small last November, when they volunteered to pay for the ink for those who would tattoo the logo. Monday, a listener got the largest tattoo so far...Jason Scott of Garretson got one the back of his head.

Public Transit Advisory Board Makes Bus Route Changes

Members with the Public Transit Advisory Board met on Monday night to discuss some changes to the bus routes in Sioux Falls. Members already made some minor changes to routes one, five, six and nine. At Monday night's meeting they voted unanimously to eliminate route 12 which makes stops at some area hospitals and universities on the city's west side of town. Now the proposal goes to the city council.

Cab Death

Murder charges have been filed against a man accused of choking a stranger to death after a shared cab ride last year in Sioux Falls. The Argus Leader reports that Lloyd Wilson had been charged with aggravated assault in the October altercation, which prosecutors now say led to the Nov. 11 death of 42-year-old Bret Alan Moe. Both are from Sioux Falls.

DUI Law Change

Senate Bill 20's made it through one committee, and if it becomes law, out of state drivers will want to think twice about getting drunk and driving in South Dakota. Current law sets 2 years in prison for someone charged with a 3rd DUI. A 4th knocks it up to 5 years. That only applies to out of state drivers if they have a prior felony. Senate bill 20 would drop the felony requirement.

Lawmakers: Ban Local Government from Collective Bargaining

Republican state lawmakers may soon draft legislation to ban local governments from negotiating collective bargaining agreements, a move that would effectively neutralize the unions that represent South Dakota's teachers and other public-sector employees. Republicans say they're looking at this idea because labor unions in other parts of the country have driven up pension costs and created unsustainable salaries. GOP leaders say they don't want that to happen in South Dakota.

Bond Set For HS Student Charged with Terroristic Threats

Bond has been set at $50,000 for 18-year-old Melissa Kruger. She's the South Dakota high school student accused of making terroristic threats on a facebook page under an assumed name. She was arrested last week. KLDT TV reports Kruger allegedly told police she was depressed and bored, and didn't think she'd hurt anyone. If she posts bond, she'll be under house arrest, barred from the internet or having contact with the school.

Pothole hotline ready for problems

Potholes are starting to pop-up on Sioux Falls streets. When the snow melts or if it rains, moisture gets into the soil below the road and when it freezes that causes expansion. The City of Sioux Falls wants to hear from you if you notice a pothole problem. You can call the Pothole Hotline at (605) 367-8002

Brandon police calls up

Calls to the Brandon police department were up last year, by more than 300. Chief Dave Kull attributes that to the growing population. In all, there were 3,742 calls for Brandon police service in 2010. The number of DUI calls were up by fifteen over 2009.

DUI

Police officers patrol the streets to keep drunk drivers off the road but even with law enforcement efforts, some people collect several convictions. Right now in South Dakota, if someone is charged with a third DUI, they could face up to two years in prison.
For a fourth DUI, the potential penitentiary time increases to five years.
Out of state driver must have a prior felony on their record to get the maximum penalties.
If the proposed legislation is passed, the felony requirement will be dropped, and drivers will be charged based on the number of DUI's they have on their record.

Greater Sioux Falls Outdoor Show

This weekend's the 23rd annual Greater Sioux Falls Outdoor Show at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds. The event includes free seminars and businesses displaying campers, motor homes, RV's, boats, pontoons, ATVs and watercraft. The show's opens at 2pm tomorrow, and 10am sunday in the north and center rooms of the Expo building.

Reminder to clear your snow

The city of Sioux Falls is clearing properties of snow this weekend that failed to do so on their own. Property owners will get the bill. Sidewalks must be cleared of ice and snow within 48 hours after any snowfall event this winter. The Sioux Falls Public Parking Division takes complaints at 367-8171.

Walmart teams up with healthy food program

Walmart has unveiled plans to lower salt, fat, and sugar content in many of its store brand foods, while lowering the price of fruits and vegatables. It's part of First Lady Michelle Obama's push for healthier foods.






Price cuts on produce will roll out by 2015, and all of those involved hope the financial incentive will encourage shoppers to make healthier choices. Walmart sells more groceries than any other company in the nation.

Vacuum Thief

Here's a story that sucks...A Sioux Falls man could face a prison sentence for allegedly stealing up to $22,000 worth of vacuum cleaners from his employer.
Matthew Kevin Mulloy was indicted on one count of grand theft over $1,000 Wednesday by a Minnehaha County grand jury.

Airport

The seven-member board of the busy Marv Skie-Lincoln County Airport meets for this first time this year today with a new president and new members, including a county commissioner whose goal is to take advantage of the airport's growth to make it more revenue neutral and offset costs to taxpayers.
Tea runs a deficit that's not likely to go away and must be picked up by taxpayers.

Sioux Falls Population

The City of Sioux Falls has completed its year-end evaluation of growth estimates and is estimating the December 31, 2010, population for the city @ 158,200, up 1,700-people, or 1.1% from 2009. The city's population's been climbing, on average, 3-thousand people-or 2.2% a year for the past decade. KSFY reports Census figures from April 1, 2010, have not been released yet, but should be available this spring.

State Has First Flu Related Death

The state Health Department says it's recorded its first flu death of the season, and issued a reminder that anyone who hasn't done so yet, should get a flu shot. The Department says the flu killed a resident of Shannon County who'd been hospitalized, had other health issues, and was in their 30's. The Argus Leader reports there've been 80 confirmed flu cases this winter season and 32 flu-related hospitalizations.

USF Gets New Hoops Conference

The University of Sioux Falls has been invited to join the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference. The Argus Leader reports North Dakota's Minot State University's also been accepted for membership. USF and Minot are in their final year as members of NAIA, and are expected to begin NSIC competition in the 2012-13 school year. They will spend the 2011-12 year as provisional members of NCAA Division II.

Population is growing

The Sioux Falls population is growing by an average of 3000 people per year. Estimates from the city in 2010 show the population was 158,200 people at the end of 2010. That's a 1.1 percent from 2009. More data will be available when census figures are released this spring.

Concussion guidelines could be coming

Head injuries in sports are all too common, and now state senator says he'll sponsor a bill with guidelines on how youth sports leagues handle concussions. Sioux Falls Republican Sen. Todd Schlekeway (SHLEK'-a-way) says he wants to create guidelines for when to remove a player from a game and when to allow a player that's suffered a concussion to return to action. His idea also would create a set of guidelines to educate coaches, parents and players on concussions.

Accidents

Year-end numbers the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office provided to the County Commission last week showed that the number of warrants served, and the number of traffic citations issued, was down in 2010 from the previous year. The number of accidents reported was up, though.
A total of 821 accidents were reported in 2010, compared to 728 in 2009.

School Cuts

The Sioux Falls School District tells Action News if the legislature approves Governor Daugaard's budget plan as is, the district will lose $10 million and it will likely lead to program cuts. The early belief was that Governor Daugaard would call for a 5% cut in state education's budget. This proposed 10% cut caught lawmakers by surprise and caught people with kids in the Sioux Falls School District flat footed.

Guv Wants 10% Cuts

Gov. Dennis Daugaard’s budget proposal would cut 10% from just about every part of state government. According to the Argus Leader, the cuts would add up to $127 million and close the state;a estimated structural deficit. Among the cuts: 10% less for the state’s base formula for K-12 education and 10 percent to Medicaid providers. Higher education, which has sustained cuts the past two years, would not escape cuts this year. The K-12 and Medicaid cuts are 5% higher than Gov. Mike Rounds proposed before leaving office.

City sales tax revenues trending up

Sioux Falls city sales tax is up. In fact, the city collected 3.8 percent more sales tax in 2010 than it did in 2009, according to the state Department of Revenue. 2009 was an off year though, down 5.8 percent after several years of growth.

Health Care Vote

Health care is on the minds of many tonight, as Congress enters into a debate on repealing President Obama's Health Care Reform Law.
House Representative Kristi Noem and U.S. Senator John Thune have both said they would like to see a repeal of the health care bill. Most Democrats want to keep the bill. Nearly 70 percent of Americans opposed the bill before the house declared it deemed and passed in non vote in 2009.

tax Revenues Up

Sales tax numbers for the city of Sioux Falls are up. Year-end numbers show and increase of 3.8% for 2010. That compares to a 5.8% drop in 2009. The increase represents 1.6 million dollars.

Former South Dakota State University President Robert T. Wagner died Monday

Former South Dakota State University President Robert T. Wagner died Monday at a Sioux Falls hospice. He was 78. He was appointed the university's 17th president in 1985, a position he held until 1997. Memorial services will be Jan. 25 at Calvary Cathedral in Sioux Falls and Jan. 27 at Emmanuel Church in Rapid City

Children's Day Coming in Pierre

Children's Day at the Capitol is February 1st from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event's coordinated by South Dakota Voices for Children. The Argus Leader reports it's a chance for the public to learn about proposed legislation, network with others and visit with policymakers about issues concerning children. For information or a complete schedule of events, visit www.sdvoicesforchildren.org.

Tax Exempt Status Change Proposed

South Dakota lawmakers will consider a bill stripping the tax-exempt status of charitable organizations that don't have a presence in the state. The bill's recommended by the State Revenue Department. Charitable relief groups can get a tax-exempt number that allows them to buy goods in the state without having to pay sales tax. The bill would also would apply to religious private schools, which also qualify for the exemption.

Links to Literacy night this Thursday

Links to Literacy helps low-income children who read below their grade leve. And the Links to Literacy Night at Tre Lounge this Thursday will help them. Just stop by sometime between 4 pm and close for a beverage, appetizer or dinner. There will be no speeches, no program, only a table tent about Links to Literacy. The better Tre does that night, the better Links to Literacy does.

Sale of Champions set for the end of the month

The Mayor's Round-Up and Sale of Champions is coming up Friday, January 28th. It's a steak dinner and an auction featuring the best market livestock from the 2011 Sioux Empire Farm Show. It starts with a social hour at 5:30 at the Best Western exhibit hall, 5200 West Maple. Dinner is at 6:30 with the sale at 8pm.

Sanford Giving More

T. Denny Sanford is giving another $100 million to the Sioux Falls health system bearing his name for work on a medical project that officials will explain later this year.
Sanford Health will use the money for "an extraordinary new initiative," but details will not come until August, spokesman Brian Mortenson said Monday from Sioux Falls.

Foreclosures Up for Area

The Sioux Falls area experienced a big jump in the sale of foreclosed properties in 2010.
The Minnehaha County Sheriff's Department in Sioux Falls sold 324 foreclosed properties, compared to 236 properties in 2009.
In Lincoln County, the sheriff's department conducted 104 foreclosure sales last year, compared to 65 in 2009. Seven years ago, there were 31 in Lincoln County.

Social Networking For Teachers may be Restricted

Some area school districts have begun restricting teachers' use of Facebook and cell phones since the December arrest of a Sioux Falls teacher accused of having sexual contact with two 13-year-old students.
Brookings Superintendent Roger DeGroot said he and the school board made plans last year to look at a new policy on social networking.
Two proposed policies on social media and staff-student relations aim to keep communications "at a professional level," he said.

Brandon Gets South Dakota Tobacco Control Grant

The South Dakota Tobacco Control Program's awarded $146,495 in grant funding to eight community/school partnerships statewide. The Brandon Tobacco Prevention Coalition was awarded $12,570. The partnerships will use the funding to support tobacco control activities that match specific needs in the communities and schools they serve.

Newell Lake Walleye Warning

The South Dakota Health Department's issued a consumption advisory for walleye from Newell Lake in Butte County. Testing found walleye over 18 inches had mercury levels approaching 1 part per million. At that level, meals including the fish should be spaced to prevent potentially dangerous mercury accumulation. The department recommends Children under 7 shouldn't have more than one 4-oz serving a month. Women who plan to become pregnant, are pregnant or are breastfeeding, no more than one 7oz serving a month.

Judiciary Facing Cuts

A 10% budget cut for the South Dakota judicial system would mean layoffs, office closures and a smaller number of prosecutions for minor offenses. The Argus Leader reports that's the view of South Dakota's chief justice. Gov. Daugaard wants 10% cuts in spending by state agencies under his control, and although the judiciary's not, its' funding is set by the legislature and Daugaard's out to eliminate a $75-million budget deficit.

Dollar Loan owner arrested

Charles Brennan, founder and owner of nearly 50 Dollar Loan Center stores in Nevada, Utah and South Dakota, has been arrested in a prostitution sting. Brennan is a South Dakota native, but most of his Dollar Loan stores are in Nevada. He is free now after posting bond.

Brandon soccer registration time

Feb. 2 is the deadline to register for the spring soccer season with the Brandon Area Soccer Association. Players must be 5 years old by July 31. Applications may be downloaded at www.brandonareasoccer.com.

Gun Permite

A lawsuit challenging South Dakota's concealed-weapons law is drawing national attention. A British citizen living in Sioux Falls sued the state after not being allowed to renew his concealed-weapons permit. The state's concealed weapons law was changed in 2002, allowing only U.S. citizens to obtain permits.

Brandon Winterfest

Brandon Edge’s third annual Winterfest is tomorrow from noon to 2 p.m. at McHardy Park in Brandon. Brandoninfo.com reports the event's free, and among the things you can do tomorrow: horse-drawn sleigh rides, sledding, games, hot chocolate, apple cider and cookies.

New Seniors Health Benefits

If you're over 65, you're now eligible for free checkups and other preventive health care options under a new Medicaid benefit that's not in effect. Colonoscopies, mammograms, annual physicals and other screenings now are available at no cost to Medicare beneficiaries, including about 136,000 in South Dakota. The changes arise from the health care reform law. For the elderly, the government now covers the co-pay, often $25 a visit, for a series of medical screenings.

Sioux Falls Foreclosures Up

Last year, Sioux Falls home foreclosure sales reached record highs, and experts say the crisis might get worse before it gets better. Nationally, lenders are poised to take back more homes this year than any other since the housing meltdown began in 2006. The Argus Leader reports last year, the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Department sold 324 foreclosed properties, compared to 236 properties in 2009. In Lincoln County, the sheriff's department did 104 foreclosure sales last year, compared to 65 in 2009.

Spot checks for smokers

If you're out this weekend, keep in mind Sioux Falls police are doing weekly spot checks to make sure smokers are complying with the ban in bars and restaurants. So far it appears most smokers are.

Lodgnet lays off workers

A Sioux Falls-based company that provides Internet services to hotels and other guest-based businesses says it has cut about 7 percent of its office staff. LodgeNet Interactive says the cuts are the result of a downturn in the travel industry because of the poor economy. Fifty of the workers were in Sioux Falls.

Plumbing Board of Appeals Position

Mayor Mike Huether has announced a vacancy in a Mayoral appointment to the Plumbing Board of Appeals and Examiners.
The mission of the Board is to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions, or determinations made by the plumbing official relative to the application and interpretation of the plumbing code, licensing determinations, and to examine applicants for licensing.
Go to www.siouxfalls.org/Mayor/boards_commissions to download the application for appointment form

Inwood Man Indicted for Bank Robbery

Jeremy Bullock's been indicted by a federal grand jury for a January bank robbery in Centreville. Federal Prosecutors say the Inwood man used a BB gun to rob First Midwest Bank in Centerville. He was captured in a police chase several hours after the robbery. The FBI says Bullock got away with just under $8-thousand.

Wells Fargo Cutting Jobs

Wells Fargo's cutting 120-jobs in its Education Financial Services division, most of them in Sioux Falls. The Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act passed last year says all federal loans have to go directly through the government. The change's expected to save taxpayers $68-billion in subsidies. companies such as Wells Fargo originated and serviced the loans while the federal government subsidized and guaranteed them.

Remove the snow or be charged

A reminder, after a snow you have 48 hours to remove the snow and ice from your sidewalk. This includes any public sidewalks that touch your property. The rule is 48 hours, but if you don't do it within 72 hours the city of Sioux Falls can have it done and send you the bill. The city is taking complaints today, and will start clearing properties tomorrow at 8am. To submit a complaint, contact the Public Parking Division at 367-8171.

Remodeling projects up

Single-family building permits last year were down in Brandon, in fact with only 31 permits issued it was the lowest level of permits issued in a decade. Only one permit was issued for multi-family building. Harrisburg, Tea, and Sioux Falls also saw drops in permits, but there was a bright spot. Remodeling. Last year, $42.4 million in residential remodeling projects received permits compared with $32.5 million the previous year.

Jobs Being Dissolved in SF

Wells Fargo announced today that it is eliminating 120 positions in its Education Financial Services division, most of which are located in Sioux Falls.
The Health Care Bill that included the Education Reconciliation Act has a provision that says all federal loans must now go directly through the government.

Accidents On The Rise

The Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office saw more reported accidents last year than in 2009, but the increase probably can be blamed on the weather.
Sheriff Mike Milstead gave a year-end report Tuesday to the Minnehaha County Commission. The report noted a decrease in other areas such as warrants served and traffic citations.

Sioux Falls Mayor Mike Huether announced today that Sally Felix is retiring as director of Siouxland Libraries effective Feb. 25. Felix has served as director since 2003. Felix says quote “I have enjoyed working for the citizens of Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County, and with city and library staff during my eight years as director,”. Huether will be assembling a team to find a replacement.

Escapee Captured

The State Corrections Department says a penitentiary inmate who walked away from a minimum security unit 16 years ago is back in custody.
Clifford LaFramboise was arrested Monday in Winnipeg, Canada. He began serving a sentence in 1988 for burglary convictions in Pennington County. LaFramboise was reported missing from a Sioux Falls prison Dec. 26, 1994. The state says it'll ask Canada to extradite him to face escape charges here.

Education Lawsuit

Just hours before Gov. Dennis Daugaard called for deep spending cuts, a coalition of schools was arguing before the State Supreme Court that K-12 education's been getting shorted for years. Some parents who sued the state and lost, want the high court to declare the current funding system for education unconstitutional and have the court direct the legislature to come up with a remedy for the funding problem.

Flu shots recommended

Flu season seems to be picking up. Twenty two people have been hospitalized in the state because of respiratory flu. Health officials say it's not too late to get a flu shot, and they're widely available this year at local pharmacies. They cover seasonal flu and H1N1.

Plannig Commision opening

The city is seeking a candidate for a vacancy on the Sioux Falls Planning Commission.
State law requires a planning commission. The commission is comprised of nine members appointed by the mayor with consent from the City Council. Those interested can visit www.siouxfalls.org for more

Homeless shelters full

Area shelters are doing what they can to keep as many of the homeless off the streets as possible in this, the dead of winter. Some places, like the Saint Francis House, have a long waiting list. Julie Becker, Executive Director at the Saint Francis House, says "The need is always there between 15 and 20 people waiting, calling back and checking," When it gets this cold there are more people who need a place to stay and stay warm.

Smoking Ban

The Minnehaha County Commission plans to take a hard line on bars who do not enforce the smoking ban.
One business owner says she will enforce the ban at her place. Deb Brobjorg, owner of Norby's in Dell Rapids, says "My customers know that we're not going to permit smoking." She syys she's not happy to hear some bar owners in Minniehaha county wont enforce the ban. Brobjorg is happy to hear the County Commission plans to take a hard line on repeat offenders, hitting them where it hurts: the liquor license.

Brandon set up for the future

Building is down in Brandon right now, but officials say Brandon is set up for steady growthin in the future. Brandon issued the lowest number of single-family building permits in decades in 2010. Just thirty-one permits were issued. Developer Tom Howey said the city’s doing a very good job of maintaining infrastructure and trying to develop parks and working with the school district to make land available for new schools. Brandon had $3.6 million in commercial growth in 2010, up from $2.5 million in 2009.

New Alternative School Coming

Another Alternative school is on tap for SF. The location is yet to be determined, but it will not share space with an existing school acording to the Argus Leader. The school board Monday agreed to a one-year contract with the Nashville, Tenn., company Ombudsman to run the 66-student school at a cost of $283,800.

Plow Drivers

Nearly a dozen snow plow drivers are suing the SF for lost wages.
The latest snow storm has plow drivers out in full force, clearing city streets. A storm in 2009 is at the center of the debate of whether workers should be paid for coming in to work a midnight shift.
The city says, the workers volunteered so it was a scheduled shift.

SDDA Help

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) has financial programs available for agricultural producers and agriculture-related businesses.
SDDA’s financial programs partner with lenders across the state to provide borrowers with lower interest rates. Programs are available for livestock purchases, facility expansion, grain storage, and value-added projects. Tax-exempt bond programs are also available. Visit http://sdda.sd.gov/ for more

Volunteers needed

The VA Medical Center has openings for outgoing individuals to spend time with veterans on evenings and weekends playing table games, making popcorn, watching TV or just visiting. Sometimes the hours get long, and volunteers can help the veterans pass time. For information on volunteer opportunities please call the HELP!Line Center by dialing 211 or visit www.helplinecenter.org and click on the Volunteer square.

Bread Making Class Scheduled

A bread making and baking class is planned for the kids. The class is for 2nd – 5th Grades and is limited to 20 students. Please indicate upon registration if your child has a food allergy. the class will be held Thursday at the High School in Room 114
Cost: $18 each session
Lonna Smith will be the instructor

State Budget Cuts Coming

A budget battle is expected to begin this week in Pierre, when lawmakers open their session tomorrow. Lower than normal tax revenues coupled with a sluggish economy could mean some tough decisions. Republicans control the house, and some say they already have a good idea of where cuts will be made to the budget and what programs will be trimmed. KSFY reports education, social services and criminal justice could be high on the list.

Russell Street Redux

Sioux Falls spent $750,000 last summer to create a smoother Russell Street for drivers, but orange cones and work crews could be back as early as next year. The summer resurfacing project was a temporary fix, and parts of that work will be redone over the next few years in a complete recomnstruction job. That projects almost $8-million, and will widen Russell to three lanes each way. Design work's already started on the 1.8-mile stretch from Westport to Minnesota.

Anti-bully program could be on its way

The Olweus Bullying Prevention Program is widely used across the county, and the Sioux Falls School Board is considering using it in across the district next year. It has been in place at Patrick Henry Middle School for the past three years. The first year costs about $114,000 for training and curriculum, then $22,000 annually after that.

Snow alert

The city of Sioux Falls has issued a snow alert, so the plowing of Emergency Snow Routes will continue until routes are clear. All vehicles along the emergency snow routes can be ticketed and towed. Plowing will start first in zone 3, then east-west streets in zone 2 will start tonight at 8pm. General snow removal information is available at http://siouxfalls.org.

Weather Advisory

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory until 6 p.m. Monday. The advisory area includes the counties of Lyon, Sioux, Plymouth, Woodbury, Rock, Dixon, Dakota, McCook, Minnehaha, Turner, Lincoln, Clay and Union.

Daugaard

Dennis Daugaard took oath of office as South Dakota's 32nd governor Saturday.
The Republican from Minnehaha County served eight years as lieutenant governor after serving six years in the state Senate. Duugard says he looks forward to serving.

Water Storage Facility Inspections

the city of Sioux Falls will be using the results of a dive team report to figure out what repairs are necessary for the city's 4-water storage facilities. The City Engineer tells KSFY with the reservoirs underwater all the time, structures have to be checked to make sure they're not corroding and are still water tight, and for elevated tanks, they have to make sure interior paint's staying where its' supposed to. The facilities are expected every 5 years.

Jail Time for Car Dealers

Sioux Falls businessman Dan Nelson been sentenced to two and a half years in federal prison for lying to several banks that were funding his used car dealerships. Nelson's business partner, Chris Tapken, was sentenced to 18-months. According to the Argus Leader, Both men pleaded guilty in September to conspiracy to cause false entries in bank books. Together, they must pay $7 million in restitution to nine banks. MetaBank in Sioux Falls is owed the most- $3.3 million.

Sioux Falls Water Loans

Gov. Mike Rounds says the state Board of Water and Natural Resources has approved a $28.6 million funding package for Sioux Falls to replace water mains and valves, upgrade its wastewater collection system, and restoration work in the Big Sioux River watershed. The loan terms are 2.25% interest for 10 years for drinking water and 1.25% interest for 10 years for clean water.

Tax help

University of Sioux Falls students and community members will be assisting low-income and disabled taxpayers beginning Monday, Feb. 7. They'll help every Monday from 3 to 8 p.m. through April 11.

Needy still in need

There have been many positive signs of an economic recovery lately, but officials say the St. Francis House is still seeing a steady stream of those who need shelter from the cold. In fact, there is a waiting list of 12 people and 40 families for beds. The Union Gospel Mission has expanded to 48 beds because the demand is high. And for the second straight year the Salvation Army has opened it's gym from 7pm to 7am.

Democratic Meeting

The Minnehaha County Democratic Forum will discuss issues expected to come before the upcoming session of the SD Legislature during its meeting today. Some area legislators may to be on hand to answer questions.
The Forum meeting begins at noon at the Sioux Falls VFW Club.

Parks History Lesson

People interested in learning about Sioux Falls’ parks system can do so at the Minnehaha County Historical Society’s Jan. 20 meeting.
Larry Weires, a retired city park employee and unofficial historian for the parks department, will present a program on the legacy of E.A. Sherman. The Argus Leader reports that Sherman donated 52 acres of land to the city in 1910 to establish Sherman Park.

Casino Robbed

Authorities in Minnehaha County are searching for a man who robbed a Brandon
casino.
Authorities say a man walked into Blinky's Casino about 1 a.m. Thursday, pointed an unidentified object at an employee and demanded money before fleeing on foot.
The amount of money taken was not immediately disclosed.

Noem Refuses to force disclosure

After campaigning against government run health care, several House Republicans affiliated with the Tea Party have announced they will not accept government health care as a Member of Congress.
Representative Kristi Noem opposed a measure that would require members of Congress to disclose if they plan to accept government health care and to do so in writing within the next 15 day

Souix Falls Embezzler Pleads Guilty

The longtime business manager of a Sioux Falls vending machine company's plead guilty today to stealing nearly $400,000 over six years.
Karen Lovro had been the bookkeeper at Musivend Enterprises since 1991. Early last year, the owner found accounting problems and found that Lovro wrote checks to herself for $123-grand. Investigators found losses totaling $400-thousand after she was indicted. She could get up to 15-years in prison when she's sentenced.

Events Center Option

Sioux Falls City Council Chairman Greg Jamison's working on some ideas of his own for a new events center for the city. Jamison says he's working up the plan in case voters don't jump at the plans the city';s currently working on for a brand new facility. Jamison's tells the Argus Leader residents might support a downtown convention center, a recreation center at the current convention center, and a remodeled Arena. Jamison's working to get his research and drawings finished for a presentation to the council.

Charges result from chase

A 45-year-old Sioux Falls man is facing felony charges now after smashing his car into a tree Wednesday after a police chase. Douglas Lloyd Schwartzel is charged with DWI and aggravated eluding, both felonies, and property hit and run. Schwartzel reached speeds of up to 70 mph in central Sioux Falls before hitting a tree on 14th Street near Cliff Avenue. He was arrested after trying to flee.

Body of Missing Man Found

The body of a man who went missing after leaving a bar with friends has been found in a slough area according to Sioux Falls police. 21-year-old Andrew Hahn reportedly set out on foot in subzero temperatures just east of the city early Monday. No foul play is suspected.

Hawk Takes Plea Deal For Killing

27-year old Burton Hawk's pleaded guilty to 2nd degree manslaughter. He was first charged with aggravated assault for beating Jason Hall last August 19th, but the charge was upgraded to 1st degree manslaughter when Hall died 2 days later. Under the plea deal, he could get to up to 10-years in prison when he's sentenced this spring.

Body of Hahn found

The body of 21-year old Andrew Hahn was found late yesterday in an area south of Harmodon Park. Hahn was reportedly intoxicated and took off on foot in frigid temperatures after time at the Attic Bar at 41st and Sycamore. Police decided to alert the public when he failed to show up for a 2:30 p.m. shift Monday at Target, without calling to tell his supervisors.

Robber caught

Authorities say the suspect in the First Midwest Bank robbery Tuesday afternoon was 32-year old Jeremy Bullock from Inwood, Iowa. Bullock was apprehended after a vehicle chase that ended several miles northwest of Centerville at Turkey Ridge. Centerville school was locked down Tuesday afternoon as a precaution.

Police looking for Creep

The Sioux Falls police are looking for a man they say followed a student home from Edison Middle School yesterday.
Police received a report of a student who was walking near Edison Middle School and was followed home by an adult male stranger.
The adult was described as a 50 to 60 year old white male with white hair and a white beard. He was driving a dark green Pontiac car.

grant Project

Nineteen grant projects benefitting South Dakota’s natural resources were recently approved by the State Conservation Commission.
The funds were awarded to 15 conservation districts that applied for funding through the Coordinated Natural Resources Conservation Fund. The fund is administered by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) on behalf of the State Conservation Commission.

School Board Meeting

There is no regular meeting of the Sioux Falls School Board scheduled for this week.
The School Board Regular Meeting will be held on Jan. 10 at 5:30 p.m. in the Instructional Planning Center, 201 E. 38th St.

Caffrey Gets a Break

Thirty years after a 17-year-old shot his adoptive father to death at their Martin home, Tim Caffrey is getting a chance at freedom. Gov. Mike Rounds has commuted Caffrey's life sentence for manslaughter to a term of 237 years, making him eligible for parole this month. The Argus Leader reports the Board of Pardons and Paroles, which has recommended a sentence reduction three times, could release Caffrey in March.

Inmate back in custody

A man who walked away from the state penetentiary in Sioux Falls is back in police custody. Corrections officials say 27-year-old Edwin Feemster was caught by officers in Lincoln County about 10 p.m. Monday, after walking away from the minimum security prison earlier in the evening. He's serving a 4-year sentence on a grand theft conviction.

Brandon meeting tonight

The Brandon City Council has their first meeting of 2011 tonight. On the agnda are parking spaces and definitions, and they'll review a request to add a Brandon Valley Area Chamber of Commerce staff member to the city benefits plan. The meeting starts at 6pm in the Council Chambers at 308 Main Avenue.

Police Looking for Hahn

Souix Falls Police are looking for 21 year old Andrew Hahn. He was last seen around 2:30 a.m. Monday walking on SD Hwy 11 between 41st St and 57th St. Hahn is 6’3”, 185 pounds with blonde hair and blue eyes. He was wearing a red jacket, blue jeans, a black cap and black shirt.
If anyone has information on Hahn or has seen anyone matching that description in that area, call police at 367-7000.

Predator Behind Bars

A 19-year-old Brandon man is behind bars in Minnehaha County after sending inappropriate text messages to a 15-year-old girl.
Sioux Falls police say it started several months ago, 19-year-old Logan McPadden sent numerous texts messages to a 15 year old girl, asking her to meet him and have sex with him.
When the victim told her brother about the messages, he called the police.

Basd Guy Back in Custody

A state prison inmate who walked away from a minimum security unit in Sioux Falls is back in custody. Inmate Edwin Feemster was apprehended by law enforcement in Lincoln County shortly before 10:00pm Monday evening. Police say that local involvement in the hunt helped bag the bad guy.

Positive economic outlook

A new survey says good things are coming for the regional economy. An area that includes South Dakota, all the way down to Oklahoma was included, and production of goods, employment, and other factors are all pointing up.

Police had a busy holiday weekend

Police in Sioux Falls responded to 165 calls over the New Year's holiday weekend which may seem like a lot, but it's actually down by 23 calls from last year. Between 6pm Friday to 6am Saturday police responded to 19 accidents and recorded 8 DWI arrests. The other calls were for noise disturbances and disputes.

911 Service Charges

A more than 20 year old surcharge on phone service will be increasing to help supplement the cost of emergency 911 services. A 75-cent surcharge per telephone line to help fund 911 service will be increasing. NO word has been given on the new rate or when it will take effect. The South Dakota 911 Coordination Board will be conducting a study.

Deaths

Violent crime claimed more lives in Minnehaha County last year than it has for at least 10 years.
Seven deaths by homicide in Sioux Falls last year were the most since 2006. Add an April shooting in a Sioux Falls trailer home that was ruled a justifiable homicide and three instances of vehicular homicide involving drunken drivers, and the number of people who lost their lives at the hands of others in the county rises to 11.