Media Comes to Court

The South Dakota Supreme Court's approved rules allowing cameras and electronic recording equipment in trial-level courtrooms in some cases.
Chief Justice David Gilbertson says television cameras, still cameras and audio recording equipment will be allowed when a judge and all parties to a case agree. KDLT reports, if all parties don't agree on cameras, a 2nd option would allow a judge to permit audio recording. The judge has final say in all cases.

72 Hour Abortion Bill Goes to State Senate

The state senate health and Human Services Committee's approved and sent to the full senate a bill requiring all pregnant women who want an abortion undergo counseling and waiting 72-hours before having the procedure. The bill from Rep. Roger Hunt of Brandon, would require women to visit a pregnancy help center and learn about the potential risks of abortion. Medical and women’s groups argued against the bill, saying it would affect doctors and lead to an expensive court battle.

Search on for Missing Inmate

State prison officials and local police are looking for 34-year old Baunita Fleury. Authorities tell KELO Fleury walked away from the Glory House program in Sioux Falls just before 9 last night. Fleury's behind bars for drug related convictions in two counties. She's described as Native American, 5'7" and weighs 145 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. If you see her, please contact police.

Inmate missing

Police are searching for a missing state prison inmate. 34 year-old Baunita Fleury walked away from the Glory House program in Sioux Falls just before nine last night. She's serving a sentence on drug charges.

Great Bear sees higher numbesr

Great Bear Recreation Park is seeing record numbers through the gates. The ski lodge has had more than 43,000 visitors so far. This tops last year's 42,000 and 40,000 the year before that. The weather is credited, along with growth in the area. The last day of the season will either be this Sunday or March 13th.

Multi-use trail is five years away

Planners for the new multi-use trail that will connect Brandon, Tea, and Harrisburg to Sioux Falls had open houses recently in Tea and Brandon to talk about plans for the trail. They said it could happen in as little as five years. There are long term options that could take a decade or more. The corridor study has been released, and that's available now at http://siouxfallsmpo.org.

Sex Traffickers Sentenced

Two co-conspirators were sent to prison Friday for their roles in a suburban sex-trafficking ring involving at least 10 underage girls.
Josh Payer was ordered to serve 22 months in prison for conspiring to commit sex trafficking.
Thompson's girlfriend, Megan Marie Hayes, was sentenced Friday to one year in prison on the same conspiracy charge.

Sentencing

Sentencing is scheduled in May for a Huron man who pleaded guilty to burglarizing a federal credit union in Huron. Cory D. Bender faces a maximum of 20 years in prison on the federal charge.

Summer Job Outlook Good

Labor officials in South Dakota's largest city are optimistic about the summer job outlook and say some companies are hiring for the first time in more than a year.
Greg Johnson, spokesman for the Department of Labor in Sioux Falls, says there are 1,304 job openings in Sioux Falls, up from 953 at the same time last year.

Vehicle Registration Fee Hike

Despite the threat of a veto from Governor Daugaard, the state senate transportation committee's approved and sent to the full senate a bill to raise annual vehicle registration fees. The hike will generate $31-million in new revenue, which will be used to help counties, cities and townships take care of roads and bridges. The bill's already been approved by the House.

Frontier to Sioux Falls?

Sioux Falls Regional Airport's offered a $250-thousand incentive package to get Frontier airlines to begin service to Denver. According to The Argus Leader, Sioux Falls is on a short list Frontier's considering for 2011. The standard incentive plan, includes $100,000 for marketing and advertising, $100,000 for startup costs, and waiving rental and landing fees for one year. It's the same package being offered to any new airline that enters Sioux Falls this year.

University Reinstates Hoopsters

The University of Sioux Falls basketball program's reinstated senior point guards Matt Malloy and Eric Tisby. KSFY reports they'll be allowed to practice and travel with the team, but they will not be included on the Cougars' postseason roster. Malloy and Tisby were suspended from the team after their arrest for a January 28 altercation at a Sioux Falls convenience store. Both players received suspended impositions and two years of probation.

Man illegally tapes women at Sioux Falls hotel

24-year old Travis Herrick of Mitchell is accused of illegally videotaping women while they were sleeping at a Sioux Falls hotel in January, and putting those videos on a porn website. Herrick pleaded guilty this week to possessing and distributing child pornography, and these are separate incidents. He's charged with sexual contact with a person incapable of consent and illegal videotaping in the new case.

Goodwill in Brandon

If you have items for Goodwill, you'll have the chance to drop them off March 8th through 15th in Brandon. The Ambassador trailer will be in the Sunshine Foods parking lot.

The Democratic Leadership announces Meeting

The Democratic Leadership of the South Dakota House of Representatives and Senate announced a press conference to be held in the Governor's large conference room in the State Capitol at 9:30 today to answer questions and provide information concerning events and legislation of the 86th Legislative Session.

Traffic Deaths Down

Traffic fatalities on South Dakota's highways are down sharply so far this year, prompting a mix of reactions from officials.
So far, almost two months into the year, seven people have died in accidents on South Dakota roadways.

Cherapa Picked

The Sink Combs Dethlefs team's decided Cherapa Place is the best location for a Sioux Falls Events Center. The announcement was made this afternoon. This is the same site that was proposed in 2005 but still held up as the best location. Cherapa has the most available parking and grants easy access to downtown businesses.

Plea Deal In Sioux Falls Rape/Assault

The man who raped a woman in her Sioux Falls home last summer and attacked her roommate has cut a deal with prosecutors. KSFY reports 13 of the 15 felony charges against 35-year-old Leon Birdhorse were dropped in exchange for guilty pleas to Second-degree Rape and Aggravated Assault.
Prosecutors have agreed not to ask a judge for more than 50-years in prison.

Brandon DayCare Has Rough Go

False charges of abuse and neglect have cost a Brandon childcare center more than half of its business. The Argus Leader reports last June, a former employee of Mini Lynx Daycare accused its' owner of spraying a 2-year old with a hose. The state cleared Randall Eggert of the charges. Video surveillance cameras helped clear Eggert, who says he's going to stay in business.

Lincoln County sees population growth

Lincoln County has seen phenomenal growth in the past ten years according to Census figures, from 24,131 to 44,828. Harrisburg had the highest percentage of growth, followed by Sioux Falls, Tea and Worthing. Lennox grew by 3% and they were expecting much more. The city has made inquiries about contesting the numbers.

Voices for Children nominations open now

Nominations are being taken now for the Champions for Children awards. South Dakota Voices for Children will use the award to honor contributions to children in volunteer and professional categories for both individuals and groups. Recipients will be honored at a luncheon April 29th in Sioux Falls.

http://sdvoicesforchildren.org
367-9667

Johnson tours Aerostar

South Dakota's US Senator Tim Johnson, took a tour of Aerostar in Sioux Falls and saw cutting-edge military technology today. The plant produces technology that helps protect the troops use in Afghanistan. In past years, Johnson has used his seat on the Senate Appropriations Committee to help secure funding for a program Aerostar uses to produce inflatable balloons that helped the military survey locations in Afghanistan.

Jail Time for Casino Robber

A 68-year-old woman who tried to rob a Sioux Falls casino is going to prison. According to KDLT, Judge Joseph Neiles sentenced Annie Doramae Lund to 10 years in jail for attempted robbery. On July 4th of last year she walked into the Black Diamond Casino and pointed a gun at the clerk demanding money from the till.

Law Sues Over Smoking Ban

Rick Law's filed suit challenging the constitutionality of the statewide smoking ban voters approved in November. Law's suit, filed in Minnehaha County, claims the ban violates the rights of private property owners--restricting their business decisions. Law, who sued Sioux Falls over video lottery machine regulation, says the ban creates a "special class" of business owners, giving smoke shop owners the right to allow smoking on their property.

Minnehaha County Plugs Budget Hole

The Minnehaha County Commission filled a hole in its 2011 budget by finding more than $900,000 in spending cuts and new revenue. KSFY reports the revised budget has $602-thousand in cuts to various agencies and $234,000 in savings by not contributing to a health insurance reserve fund for two pay periods. The changes did not require any job cuts.

Abortion bill passes the House

A bill regarding abortion passed yesterday in the South Dakota House despite arguments that it probably will be thrown out by courts after an expensive legal battle. The bill says an abortion could not be performed until at least 72 hours after a woman first meets with a doctor who will perform the abortion. She would also have to consult with a pregancy help center. The bill now goes to the Senate.

Thune Won't Run

Senator John Thune says he's not ready to run for President. He says he has been considering a White House run for months now but has now reached the decision that 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue isn't for him this time around.

Help Line Awards

The HELP!Line Center is currently seeking nominations for the 2011 Spirit of Volunteerism Awards. Any person, non-profit organization, church, community group or business in the Sioux Empire can make a nomination and can receive the nomination form by visiting www.helplinecenter.org or dialing 2-1-1. All nominations must be returned to the HELP!Line Center by April 1.

Abortion Bill Gets the Nod

The South Dakota House has passed a measure requiring women to consult with pregnancy help centers before getting abortions. KDLT reports that the bill's main sponsor, Rep. Roger Hunt of Brandon, says the bill would make sure women get help so they can resist efforts to force them into getting abortions.

Tea and Harrisburg are staying young

Some say the US has an aging population, but Tea and Harrisburg are defying that trend. Those cities have two of the highest percentages in the state of young residents, those under 18. While that's good news for city and school administrators, it also brings added pressure to support the growth. Sioux Falls saw an overall 24 percent growth in population, but only a quarter of the population is younger than 18.

Sioux Falls Airport to get second fueling option

Three businessmen are working to offer a second airplane fueling option at the Sioux Falls Regional Airport now. The last time Sioux Falls had two fuel and service companies was in the early 19990s. They're hoping another option would bring back business that has gone to other to nearby airports. The airport authority approved the ground and building lease with Maverick Air Center yesterday and should open on the west side of the airport by this summer.

Weather Caused Problems

Slick Roads in Souix Falls caused several nasty crashes, some involving roll overs. Blowing snow and icy conditions caused problems for travelers in much of the state. Sioux Falls received 2.9 inches in a mix of snow and sleet from Sunday through Monday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. Aberdeen logged 17.7 inches overall - a single-day record for February

Population Boom

South Dakota's Lincoln County is dealing with phenomenal growth. 2010 Census figures show the county that's home to the south side of Sioux Falls grew by 86 percent over the decade, to about 45,000 people. That's on top of 56 percent growth from 1990 to 2000.

Tea has been drawing in new residents over the past few years, but, now, city officials have their proof of just how many people have decided to call Tea "home".
"We've doubled in size since 2000, which is amazing, spectacular for us," said Economic Development Director Jenni White.

HelpLine Needs Help

The HELP!Line Center will host the Eleventh Annual Festival of Giving, the community’s largest annual volunteer fair, March 10, and 80 are still needed for on-site speed volunteer projects that day. The Festival of Giving, will take place from 2:30 pm to 8 pm March 10 in the Macy’s Wing of the Empire Mall. Residents can sign up to help by dialing 2-1-1 or emailing vol@helplinecenter.org.

Minnehaha County Budget Cut Decisions Tomorrow

The Minnehaha County Commission meets tomorrow to decide on the $800-thousand in cuts they have to make to the 201 budget. The Argus Leader reports Department heads have submitted cost savings to commissioners, who will review them before the hearing. Department heads will be on hand for the hearing, which starts right after tomorrows 9 a.m. regular weekly meeting.

Some Sioux Falls Educators Take Early Retirement

A contract incentive's gotten 87 Sioux Falls teachers, librarians, counselors, nurses and therapists, to take early retirement at the end of the school year. The Argus Leader reports the incentive, 80-to-90% of a years pay, expires this year for 186 educators who are at least 55 years old with 20 years of experience in the district. Most of those 186 chose to keep their jobs, but the district should still save more than $1 million by replacing early retirees with less expansive workers.

Teachers opting for retirement

With the threat of budget cuts and with contract incentives, 87 Sioux Falls teachers have decided to take early retirement, effective at the end of this school year. The open positions will remain unfilled, with the hopes that layoffs can be avoided.

Sioux Falls still the biggest city in SD

Sioux Falls is still South Dakota's largest city, but in the top ten there has been some shifting, according to census figures. Brookings has overtaken Watertown as the fourth-largest city in South Dakota, with slightly more than 22,000 residents. Yankton has moved ahead of Pierre in population, gaining almost 1,000 residents since 2000 to become the state's seventh-largest city. Pierre saw a drop of about 230 people and fell to eighth-biggest.

Roads were BAAAD

Sheets of ice covered almost everything in the area yesterday. Drivers said the roads were worse than they look. And South Dakota safety authorities agreed. They closed sweeping sections of I-29 and I-90 because the roads were too dangerous.
In Sioux Falls, street department crews cleared emergency routes. But many people chose to stay home.

Hearing

The Minnehaha County Commission plans to pare its 2011 budget at a hearing Tuesday.
Commissioners must find cuts to manage the $800,000 budget shortfall from a drop in bank franchise taxes this year.

Company Being Sued

A 21-year-old Brookings man who closed his Sioux Falls business in early February is being sued by former employees for more than $330,000.
The employees say that James Gabriel's decision to close a high-performance diesel truck shop, Get Some Performance, was a breach of contract that blindsided them and left them unable to pay bills.

State Flood Planning

Gov. Daugaard and officials from the Departments of Public Safety and Transportation met earlier this week for a flood outlook briefing from the National Weather Service-which says flooding's possible over a broad stretch of the eastern part of the state. Part of the state planning includes
Stage flood-fighting assets, including sandbags, sand, boats, pumps, generators, shelter supplies, in or close to areas of greatest concern.

Vacancy rate in Sioux Falls apartments down

For awhile, there was a trend with renters seeking home ownership. Now the trend seems to be reversing a bit with a higher demand in the rental market. The vacancy rate for apartments in Sioux Falls peaked at 13 percent a year ago, but for the month of January 2011, it was under 8 percent. Analysts expect the numbers to continue to drop into the summer months as more renters snatch up what's there.

Book

Meet LPGA Professional, Kris Tschetter at the Great Plains Golf Expo, Saturday and Sunday, February 26th and 27th . Kris will be presenting a question and answer session from noon until 12:30 pm, Saturday, February 26th and again Sunday, February 27th from 1 until 1:30 pm, followed both days by a two hour book signing at the show. Copies of her book will be available at a reduced rate of only $20, with $5 from each sale donated to The First Tee of South Dakota.

Daugaard Opposes Current Fetal Protection Bill

South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard says he would veto the current version of a bill critics have say would encourage people to kill abortion doctors. KELO reports the bill would expand South Dakota's definition of justifiable homicide to include killings that protect unborn children. Opponents say it might allow someone to claim self-defense for killing abortion doctors and other staff at abortion clinics.

Bond Set for Accused Sioux Falls Child Rapist

Bond was set at 500-thousand today for Ruben Garcia. KSFY reports he's the Sioux Falls man arrested and charged with raping a nine-year-old girl. The 31-year-old was arrested in Omaha and was extradited back to Sioux Falls this week. He made his first appearance in Minnehaha County court this afternoon.

More Clerks in Sioux Falls Caught Selling Booze to Minors

Store clerks who sell liquor to minors might end up in jail if the spike in citations during the Sioux Falls Police Department's monthly liquor stings keeps up. Five of 27 businesses checked this week sold alcohol to people under 21, bringing the number of clerks cited in stings this year to 11. The Argus Leader reports the total for all of last year was 18. A Police spokesperson says jailing cashiers used to be the norm in liquor stings.

Fathers could have an easier time gaining custody with a new bill

House panel has recommended passage of a bill that would make it easier for fathers in South Dakota to earn shared custody in divorce proceedings. The legislation now will get a hearing on the House floor. If it passes, judges would be required to begin divorce proceedings with the assumption that joint custody will be awarded to parents. South Dakota law now provides for a child's primary caregiver to be awarded primary custody at the start of a divorce.

Great Plains Golf Expo to feature LPGA pro

If you love golf, you'll want to check out the Great Plains Golf Expo on the 26th and 27th at the Convention Center in Sioux Falls. You'll have the chance to meet LPGA Pro Kris Tschetter, who will hold a question and answer session from noon to 12:30 on Saturday the 26th, with another one Sunday and a book signing to follow each session. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to First Tee of South Dakota.

HB 1230 Fails

School students lost to corporate salesmen in the House State Affairs Committee.
House Minority Leader Bernie Hunhoff’s effort to amend or kill the bill (HB 1230) was joined by Rep. Mitch Fargen of Flandreau, Rep. Susy Blake of Sioux Falls and Rep. Peggy Gibson of Huron. They were out-voted by all nine Republicans on the committee.

Funny Money In Brandon

We received information that a Brandon business received a counterfeit $20 bill which was discovered when they went to deposit the funds in the bank today. Please be cautious as it sounds as though it was a good replica. The FBI is involved and any further information we receive that is pertinent will be relayed to you, our members.

Coffee Meeting Time Changed

This Saturday's Legislative Coffee has been moved to the Performing Arts Center at the Brandon Valley High School. It will begin at 9:00am and go no later than 11am.
The format for this Legislative Coffee will be to submit questions in writing. If you would like to submit your questions in advance you may email them to Kim or Lindsey at the Chamber office before 5pm Friday.

South Dakota Census Numbers

New population figures show that South Dakota's two largest counties each grew by more than 14% since 2000. KELO reports the U.S. Census numbers show Minnehaha County's population's just over 169-thousand, and Pennington County's population is now up to 101-thousand. The most significant growth was in Lincoln County, home to the south side of Sioux Falls, which grew by almost 86% percent to 45-thousand.

Thune on CPAC Straw Poll

U.S. Sen. John Thune says his poor showing in a national straw poll of 15 potential Republican presidential candidates this past weekend won't factor into his presidential ambitions for 2012. The unscientific poll of about 3,700 activists from all 50 states attending last week's CPAC in Washington was won by Texas Cong. Ron Paul with 30%, followed by Mitt Romney @ 23%. Thune, who says he'll make a decision on running for president by the end of the month, came in 10th at 2%.

Food tax refunds may go away

Gov. Dennis Daugaard wants to eliminate the food tax refund program in an effort to trim the state budget. The program has been in place since 2004 and allows some residents to receive a refund on taxes they pay on food. The maximum quarterly refund for a family of four is $98. Those who make less than 150 percent of the federal poverty level, but do not qualify for food stamps, are eligible.

Construction reminder for Thursday

The eastbound lanes of Sixth Street between Phillips and Weber avenues will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. tomorrow to allow construction crews to pour concrete for the river walls on the River Greenway project. One lane of traffic in each direction will be maintained on the westbound lanes.

Flood Insurance

The National Weather Service is predicting a greater than normal potential for flooding when snow begins to melt. The areas of greatest concern include James River and Big Sioux River in South Dakota. The Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, Inc., FLASH® reminds homeowners and renters alike that flood insurance is a wise purchase if they are at risk for flooding. Consumers are further cautioned that there is a mandatory 30-day waiting period before coverage kicks in so now is the time to consider taking precautions to protect family and home

The Minnehaha County Commission plans to pare its 2011 budget

The Minnehaha County Commission plans to pare its 2011 budget at a budget hearing next Tuesday.
Commissioners need to find cuts to manage the $800,000 budget shortfall from a drop in bank franchise taxes this year according to the Argus Leader.

Nude Dancing Gets Vote

Residents of Lead will decide whether to keep a new city ordinance that allows nude dancing in bars when the owners obtain a special permit.
KDLT reports city officials say there were enough valid petition signatures to refer the ordinance to a public vote. the City Commission will decide whether to hold a special election on that question only or put it on the ballot as part of the April 12 city election.

Human Tradficking Law Moves In Legislature

A South Dakota legislative committee's sent to the full state senate a law creating the crime of human trafficking for forced prostitution, labor or slavery. The bill’s main sponsor, Sen. Joni Cutler of Sioux Falls, says South Dakota law now makes it illegal to engage in prostitution or pimping, and the state needs a law to prosecute people who use force, fraud or coercion to make others take part in prostitution or forced labor.

Grand Falls Could Open in May

With workers on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week, officials with the Grand Falls Casino say Iowa's newest casino will open ahead of schedule. Originally set to open around July 4, the casino just across the South Dakota border's not supposed to open May 26. A spokesperson says the opening date's been moved up in part to being able to have the structure enclosed before Thanksgiving.

Legacy Electronics moves in

Legacy Electronics has announced it will establish new sales and administrative staff offices in Sioux Falls, and the firm plans to expand its electronics manufacturing operations to the area as well.

Sioux Falls man busted in sex ring

Three men from South Dakota and Iowa face commercial sex trafficking charges after an online sting. The Rapid City Journal reports that a 31-year-old man and a 53-year-old man from Sioux Falls and a 40-year-old man from Sioux City, Iowa, all could face life in prison if convicted. The men allegedly responded to an online ad posted as part of an undercover operation by Homeland Security and the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

No to surrogacy bill

A bill that would have criminalized surrogacy in South Dakota failed in committee Monday, but legislators hinted at possibly bringing the issue back next year. The proposal would have covered all surrogacy arrangements and have given parental rights to surrogate mothers regardless of whether the surrogate is the genetic mother.

Immigration Bill KIlled in Committee

South Dakota lawmakers have rejected a bill creating immigration standards that mimic laws enacted by Arizona last year. The bill, rejected by committee today, directed local police enforcing other laws, to make reasonable attempts to ask about a suspects immigration status if there's reason to believe that person is in the U.S. illegally. KSFY reports some lawmakers were worried about the unintended consequences of passing the bill.

Sioux Falls Condo/Townhome Tax Bills

The city of Sioux Falls is going back to the old billing method for taxing condo and townhome common areas. Last year the city sent the bills for 2009 drainage and assessment fees to homeowners' associations or developers. Individual unit owners were billed separately for their portion. the Minnehaha County Treasurer's Office heard from owners who got delinquent notices and charged late fees for bills they didn't know they had.

Bill Calls for Waiting Period Before Abortion

The state house judiciary committee's approved a bill requiring a 72-hour waiting period before a woman can get an abortion. The bill, sponsored by republican Roger Hunt of Brandon, says women are being coerced and misinformed about abortion.He says for too many women, abortion's the result of uninformed consent. the bill requires a physician assessment and a consultation with a pregnancy center before an abortion. South Dakota voters rejected abortion bans in 2006 and 2008.

Registration underway for ALA's Fight for Air Walk

Registration is open now for the American Lung Association in South Dakota’s Fight for Air Walk. The event happens April 2nd in the Empire Mall. Funds raised support the Lung Association’s work in education, advocacy and research, and there are lots of prizes up for grabs for those who raise $200 or more. For more info, go to www.fightforairwalk.org

Flowers

Today is the day of sweethearts, and flowers. And many local florists are seeing a boon of business as many are turning to the good ole standby, roses. Lori Marsh and her crew have been working all week long, putting together dozens of red roses so they can go out for delivery. Lori says they've taken hundreds of phone orders this year. Some calls were early, some late but it's a number that's up from last year.

Franchise Fee Revenue Drop Prompts Talks of Cuts

Faced with $800,000 less in bank franchise tax revenue, the Minnehaha County Commission is considering postponing some planned projects and asking department heads for ideas on how to cut spending. The bank franchise fee is what South Dakota banks and lending agencies pay for income they earn in interest and fees.

Restaurant in the Works

Just after a bit more than a week, Boston's, a Gormet Pizzeria that closed it's doors, a new lease has popped up. Linda Dunham of The Dunham Co. said she is in the process of putting together a new lease for another company but declined to provide details until it's a done deal.

Surrogacy Proposal

South Dakotans involved in surrogacy arrangements could face civil penalties and criminal charges under a bill in the Legislature. HB 1218 would make any verbal or written surrogacy agreement unenforceable and keep parental rights with the woman who gives birth to the child. It would make surrogacy agreements unenforceable regardless of compensation, and creates civil penalties for the intended parents, and felony charges against anyone helping make an agreement.

Dell Rapids MMA Event Issues

Last months' MMA event at the Dell Rapids Center's turned into a problem. City Administrator Justin Weiland tells the Argus Leader that the event violated city ordinance, and a Minnehaha County deputy sheriff reported it. The city didn't fine South Dakota Total Combat but instead asked for a $200 donation to go toward a city project. Weiland says city officials are drafting an exception to the ordinance, and the City Council could take up the matter in March.

Sioux Falls PD Arrests Man for Child's Rape

Sioux Falls police have arrested a 31-year-old man for raping a 9-year-old girl. KELO reports police were called to a home on Blauvelt Avenue earlier this week, where the child's mother had been informed of the incident. Police used a cell phone to track their suspect, Ruben Garcia, who'd traveled to Omaha. He was arrested minutes later.

Tattoo number 43 and 44 for Sunny Radio listeners

And the tattoos continue for Sunny radio listeners. The latest to get inked are James and Stacy Schmidt of Sioux Falls. They're actually celebrating their anniversary this Sunday and decided matching tattoos would be a fun thing to do together. This marks the 43rd and 44th Sunny radio listeners to have the logo tattooed. Photos of all 42 tattoos can be seen on the radio station website, www.MySunnyRadio.com

New Devices Could Be Used in the 24-7 Sobriety Program

South Dakota's "24-7 Sobriety Program" monitors people convicted of alcohol-related crimes like drunken driving. More than 350 people are on the program in Minnehaha County right now. But soon an independent organization will be studying the program.
There could be a new addition to the program -- ignition interlock devices.

Brit Gets Permit

A British national living in Sioux Falls has won the right to obtain a concealed weapons permit in Minnehaha County after being denied last year because of his citizenship status.
Wayne Smith, who immigrated to the United States in 1979 when he was 15, was granted a preliminary and permanent injunction by U.S. District Judge Karen Schreier.

Julianne Fischer, Communications Director for Senator Tim Johnson Quits

Julianne Fischer, Communications Director for Senator Tim Johnson, says she'll step down from the positin February 18 to take a job with the IRS in Washington DC. In a press release, Fischer states quote,"After nearly eight years of working with and for Senator Johnson, I have accepted a position in the National Media Relations Office of the IRS. I was proud to have been part of the Senator’s team and look forward to remaining in touch."

Orchestra performs this weekend

High school players will show their stuff this weekend at the All-State High School Orchestra concert in Brandon. It's a 22-member string orchestra that was chosen from the highest scoring students during last October's All-State High School Orchestra auditions. They'll perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday in the Brandon Valley Performing Arts Center. Admission is free for students and $10 at the door for others.

New bill affects surrogacies

Under a proposed bill in the state legislature, surrgoacies would face stiff penalties. The bill would keep parental rights with the woman who gives birth to the child, regardless of whether she is the genetic mother. The law also make surrogacy agreements felonies. Doctors who knowingly assist in medical procedures related to surrogacy agreements also would face felonies. A few states have surrogacy bans, but at least one analyst says something like this would be off the charts.

Red Rock Corridor Study Website

A website about the Red Rock Corridor study has been set up and will provide information about the study and ways the public can participate. The study will be a part of Minnehaha County's Comprehensive Plan and help provide guidelines for future development of the Re Rock Corridor.

Pay Day Loan Cap Killed

A South Dakota House committee has rejected an effort to cap the interest rates charged by so-called payday lenders. KELO reports lawmakers rejected a plan to cap the interest they could charge at 36%. Opponents say they believe many people who use payday lenders have no alternative. Banking and trade groups opposed the proposal, saying it would put many lenders out of business.

Suspect Wanted for Attack on Ex-Girlfriend

Sioux Fall Police and Minnehaha County Sheriff's deputies in SWAT gear had a three-hour armed standoff at an empty house yesterday. The Argus Leader reports authorities are now looking for a suspect they thought was inside a duplex in the 3300 block of South Elmwood Avenue. He is a 35-year-old Sioux Falls man who allegedly sneaked into his ex-girlfriend's house and cut her with a pocketknife.

Minnehaha County Budget Cuts

Minnehaha County commissioners are considering postponing some projects and asked department heads to submit budget-cutting ideas to manage the $800,000 budget shortfall from a drop in bank franchise taxes this year. They'd expected $1.5-million, but got about $700-thousand. Budget cutting ideas are to be turned in to the commission by next week. Then they'll schedule another work session to determine the necessary $800,000 in cuts for this year.

Brandon hunter busted for poaching

Seven hunters from South Dakota were among a group of poachers caught last month taking elk illegally in Montana. 58-year old Al Kuehl of Brandon was among them. It was a big bust, after a three year investigation. All told, the hunters were fined a total of $37,300. Eight of them also lost hunting, fishing and trapping privileges for two years.

Romantic City

Did you know you live in a top city for romance? No? Well you do. Sioux Falls is the seventh most romantic city in the United States, based on the number of romantic comedy movies people rented from redbox in 2010.
Greensboro, N.C., tops the list. Fargo ranked eighth.

Budget Hearing

A little more than a month into the new year, and Minnehaha County Commissioners are looking to fill an $800,000 budget hole. KDLT reports that Commissioners examined all their options at a budget hearing yesterday morning, but nothing is set in stone.

Sioux Falls Man Charged with Rape

Rape charges have been filed against a 66 year old Sioux Falls man who was first busted for soliciting minors and making lewd gestures to several teenage victims. Police tell KDLT Vern Hennings had sexual contact with, among others, an 8 year old female relative. Hennings first made headlines after police say the man followed girls in his car, but since his arrest, several new victims have come forward. Hennings is in the Minnehaha County Jail, after his bond was revoked.

Homan Blasts Daugaard Budget Plan

Sioux Falls School Superintendent Pam Homan says Gov. Daugaard's budget approach is "half-assed," and says lawmakers should get accurate information in putting together a budget that spares K-12 schools from budget cuts. According to the Argus Leader, Homan says state support for education has been behind Medicaid and the rest of state government in the past 15-years, and the Governor's plan for 10% cuts in per pupil spending would lead to under served children and a poor-quality education system"

Wind Chill Advisory for Tonight

The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Chill Advisory for the region. ARCTIC HIGH PRESSURE WILL CONTINUE TO SIT OVER THE REGION TONIGHT AND COUPLE WITH WIND SPEEDS OF 10 TO 20 MPH. THIS WILL RESULT IN WIND CHILL VALUES OF 20 BELOW TO 35 BELOW ZERO THROUGH tomorrow MORNING. SPOTTY BLOWING SNOW WILL ALSO BE LIKELY TONIGHT IN
OPEN AREAS...SO USE CAUTION WHEN TRAVELING.

SWAT teams called to Sioux Falls home today

SWAT teams were called today after a man threatened a woman he used to date. Sioux Falls police were called the scene early this morning believing the woman was inside, but she was able to get away. The SWAT team watched the house for hours, believing the man was still inside. When they entered it, they found it empty. The investigation continues.

Man Charged With Lewd Comments Arrested for Molestation

Already charged with eight counts of solicitation of a minor for gestures and comments he'd reportedly made to underage girls near Edison Middle School on Jan. 4., Vern LeeRoyal Hennings has been indicted for allegedly raping an 8-year-old girl. The Sioux Falls man told police last month that he'd spend 20 years following and making lewd gestures at young girls from his vehicle.

SBA Loans Up

One segment of business lending in South Dakota is at a record level despite the bleak national outlook for small-business expansions.
The government-guaranteed Small Business Administration loans, which make up only a small piece of overall business lending, have increased steadily since 2005, said John Brown, director for the South Dakota district office.

Hotel Drug Bust

Sioux Falls police arrested two people on drug charges after they were called to a motel room over the weekend. KELO reports 39-year-old Brandon Moore and 24-year-old Jackie Jessie were arrested after witnesses say someone tossed something from the room. Officers found 2 pounds of marijuana.

Want to Quit Smoking?

Two Freedom from Smoking programs begin tomorrow. Sessions are at 5:30 p.m. at Health Connect of South Dakota, 737 W. 10th St., and at 7 p.m. at the Avera Heart Hospital, 4500 W. 69th St. The Argus Leader reports both are eight-sessions. The cost for the Health Connect program is $89. To register or for information, call 371-1000. The cost for the program at Avera is $100. Call 977-7000 for information.

Price is Right has a local connection

"The Price Is Right" will have a Sioux Falls connection on Thursday. 26-year old Taylor Eastman is one of the contestants on the show, which was filmed earlier. She works as a sales assistant at KDLT TV.

Winning lottery ticket sold in Sioux Falls

South Dakota Lottery officials say a winning Powerball ticket worth $10,000 in Saturday night’s drawing was sold in Sioux Falls. The odds of winning the game’s third prize are 1 in about 723,000. No winner has come forward yet, but that person will have about six months to claim the money.

New Italian restaurant coming

A new Italian restaurant is coming to Sioux Falls and will open in the Falls Center on North Phillips Avenue this May. A lease was signed for Luciano’s Italian Restaurant to occupy the entire main floor, which has been vacant since Food ‘N Fermentations closed in early 2009.

Firefighter Fitness

Firefighters put themselves in harm's way every day, but what's inside could be more dangerous. About half of all firefighter deaths are due to heart attacks. That's one reason Sioux Falls Fire Rescue is upping the fitness standards for all of its nearly 200 firefighters. Next month firefighters begin their first trial run at a new physical fitness exam everyone in the department must pass in 2011.

Algae to Ethanol'

A local biologist turned inventor says a noxious weed growing in lakes everywhere can revolutionize the entire ethanol industry. Now he's patented his process and is ready to introduce it to the world. Patent Attorney Sean Kaufhold is helping protect Tony Hagen's process for getting ethanol, from of all places, algae.

Big Sioux Falls Pot Bust

The Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force seized more than 5-pounds marijuana and over $80,000 cash and arrested three men this week. Police raided an apartment at 2801 E. Marson Drive. The Argus Leader reports officers found about 4 1/2 pounds of pot, over $41-grand in cash, a 12-gauge shotgun, and a small amount of cocaine residue. 2-suspects where in the apartment when officers arrived, a 3rd showed up later, and they found over half pound of pot in his car and $44-grand in cash. All 3 men, in their 20's, face a variety of drug charges.

Still no Hot Lotto winner

Time is running out for a $10,000 Hot Lotto winner to claim their prize. South Dakota lottery winners have six months to claim their prize, and the drawing was August 21st. The winning ticket was sold at a Hy Vee store in Sioux Falls. If the winner doesn't step forward by February 17th, the money goes back into the prize pool. Hot Lotto is played in several states and the District of Columbia, and the odds of having a winning ticket are about 1 in 600,000.

Player Sentenced

A man who played two seasons with the Sioux Falls Storm will spend seven years in prison for robbing and assaulting two Sioux Falls men last year.Robinson had been charged with kidnapping, robbery and aggravated assault, but prosecutors dropped the kidnapping charge as part of a plea agreement

HB 1230

South Dakota’s laws don’t protect the taxpayer from abuses of economic development funds, according to State Democratic Chairman Ben Nesselhuf.
Democratic legislators said today that they are gravely concerned by Governor Daugaard’s last-minute bill (HB 1230) to divert tax dollars to an economic development slush fund for large corporate projects.

Pine Beetle Help

Black Hills landowners are reminded that the cut-off date for requesting assistance with locating and marking trees infested with mountain pine beetle is Feb. 7, 2011. After that date, the South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) will no longer be accepting requests for assistance. SDDA has been taking requests since last fall.

Trail open houses coming up

Two open houses are coming up to discuss future trail corridors connecting the Sioux Falls trail network with Brandon, Harrisburg and Tea. The open houses will be held Tuesday. There's one from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Harrisburg Community Library inside Liberty Elementary, and another from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Brandon City Council Chambers, 308 Main Ave. The trail connections could be used by bikers, walkers and others for recreation or even commuting.

Wild Game Feed this Saturday

The Polzine Memorial Youth Cancer Fund Wild Game Feed happens Saturday at the Brandon VFW, 321 S. Main St. Proceeds go toward medical expenses for local children with cancer. Brandon Contractors and Friends are sponsoring the event, which will include a bake sale, dinner provided by local hunters and live auction. One of the paintings to be auctioned off is signed by Frank Stallone, Sylvester Stallone's younger brother.

Hydrants May Be Covered

As of this morning, several Sioux Falls streets had been cleared from snow, but a lot of that snow had been pushed up onto curbs covering some fire hydrants. You'll want to check your neighborhood fire hydrants to make sure they are not only visible but that there is a three foot circle dug out around the hydrants.

Escapee

A woman who escaped from Minnehaha County Jail is being sought by police. 38 year old Janel Hill was discovered missing at 4 p.m. yesterday when she failed to return from a work release job search. She is a 5-foot-3 Native American woman with brown hair and eyes and weighs 136 pounds. She has several tattoos, including an “H” on her right thumb and “With Love Jeremy” on her left wrist. She sometimes goes by the alias Frenier.

Bye Bye Boston's

Planning on going to Boston's in Sioux Falls? Make other plans. The east side restaurant's closed its doors. KSFY says employees who showed up for work today were told they didn't have jobs and should contact the unemployment office. Another Boston's in Rapid City tells KSFY their doors are staying open.

Brandon Capital Projects for 2012

The Brandon City Council is considering upgrading Aspen Boulevard as one of the capital improvement projects for 2012. The Argus Leader reports Aspen needs work...it's rough and there are drainage issues. The city's engineer has given the council three options, from a surface upgrade that would cost about $350,000 to a full replacement of the road for $1.2 million. The council wants to prioritize the projects before passing the 2012 budget in October.

SD Gay Marriage Challenge

Two Sioux Falls women, legally married in Iowa are petitioning to change their names after the state of South Dakota refused to issue them driver's licenses in their married names. A North Sioux City woman who took her wife's name after an Iowa marriage has filed a similar petition.
The ACLU's backing both petitions. In 2006, South Dakota passed a constitutional amendment banning and denying recognition of same-sex marriages and civil unions.

Legislative coffee this Saturday

The third legislative coffee for Sioux Falls area lawmakers begins at 10 a.m. Saturday in the Holiday Inn City Centre, 100 W. Eighth St. It lasts about 90 minutes and gives you and the chance to stay up to date on legislative bills. Representatives from districts 9, 11, and 12 will be there.

South Dakota law prevents Sioux Falls women from getting driver's licenses in their married name

Two Sioux Falls women who were legally married in Iowa are petitioning to change their names after the state of South Dakota refused to issue them driver's licenses in their married names. The American Civil Liberties Union is backing the petition.

Brandon council considering street repairs

The Brandon City Council is considering upgrading Aspen Boulevard as one of its capital improvement projects for 2012. City councilors say the street is in need of repair and suffers from poor drainage. There are also concerns about the pedestrian and bicycle lane on the north side of the street. The project is competing for funding with several other projects.

Travel Delays

The winter storm is causing some delays and cancellations at airports across the country and Sioux Falls is no exception. A few unlucky travelers spent the afternoon stuck at the Sioux Falls Regional Airport. As the storm hits the east coast today and tomorrow, there's no telling how long the cancellations will continue.

Minnehaha County Sheriff Daughter Safe

Minnehaha County Sheriff Mike Milstead's daughter has been safely evacuated from Cairo, Egypt. Jessie Milstead, a University of South Dakota student who was studying in Cairo, Egypt, has been evacuated to Barcelona, Spain.

Sexting Bill

The Legislature will take up a bill that defines juvenile "sexting" and lists possible punishment for violators who electronically transmit sexually explicit or nude photos of themselves or others. It specifies how offenders would be handled in juvenile court. KDLT reports Offenders would not have to register as a sex offender. The bill covers those ages 12 to 17.

Minnesota Fireghter Charged with Soliciting SD Girl

A 42-year-old Minnesota firefighter is accused of using Facebook to proposition a 14-year-old South Dakota girl. KDLT reports Bret Kiphuth of Fergus Falls, Minn., allegedly identified himself on the social networking site as a 15-year-old boy and asked the Sioux Falls girl to send him naked pictures last spring and meet with him. He's been indicted for solicitation of a minor and could get 10 years in prison if convicted.

Why Not Require Firearm Ownership

To counter the federal health care reform law requiring everyone to buy health insurance in 2014, Sioux Falls Republican Rep. Hal Wick's proposed legislation to require that everyone over age 21 be required to buy a firearm for self defense. He says it makes sense to "provide for everyone's protection," just as supporters of the health care legislation say all Americans need coverage.

Closure because of the weather

Great Bear Recreation Park and all six outdoor skating rinks and warming houses are closed today because of extreme weather conditions. They will reopen as weather permits.

Winter weather advisory still in effect

A winter weather advisory is in effect until 6 p.m. today, and a wind chill warning will be in effect from 6 p.m. until noon Wednesday. Blowing snow could still be a problem, according to the national weather service. Wind chills could reach 36 below tonight, with the acutal low 16 below. Wind chills tomorrow during the day will be well below zero too.

Bill that pro-rates payments to schools leaves committee

A bill that would reduce state aid payments to school districts that do not provide full-day kindergarten narrowly passed the Senate Education Committee this morning. Lawmakers argued it was unfair to award the same amount of money to schools with half-day kindergartens as those with full days. The bill would pro-rate the formula payment for districts like Brandon Valley, which don’t provide all-day classes. Now the bill goes to the full Senate.

Hearing Bus

Heraring Tests are being offered for students in SD Schools. Recent news articles about how iPods and MP3 players could lead to hearing loss in teenagers led Pierre school officials to enact a new test to check students' hearing. The mobile hearing lab travels all throughout South Dakota to K-12 schools and is a free service to all public and private schools.

Pervert In Jail

A Sioux Falls man is charged with 8 counts of soliciting a minor. According to police, 66 year old Vern Hennings made lewd gestures to several teenage victims. Police say an 11 year old girl became Vern Hennings latest victim. According to offials, Hennings started following the girl in his car near Edison Middle School, and making lewd gestures.