Casino Hiring

A push begin's next month to fill hundreds of job openings before Iowa's newest casino opens near Larchwood. The Grand Falls Casino Resort, expected to open in late May, will employ 700 plus, and is expected to draw employees from the tri-state region. The company's planned several job fairs in Sioux Falls and the surrounding area beginning in mid-April. They're expected to fill 500 of the 700 jobs.

S.D. Indian Reservation Health

A second year of study, showing health on South Dakota's reservations is among the poorest in the state, confirms an obvious but unresolved reality to Dr. Don Warne. "The County Health Rankings," released yesterday, ranks South Dakota's reservation counties at the bottom for healthy living. The Argus Leader reports Brookings County's at the top, followed by Lincoln. Minnehaha County was 16th out of the 55 counties ranked.

Strum gets 40-years

23 year old Payton Strum of Sioux Falls was sentenced to 40 years in prison today for beating and killing 27 year old Joseph Cynkar last July, and leaving his body in a deserted field. Strum stood up in a Minnehaha County Courtroom today, apologized and took full responsibility for his actions. KDLT says he told Cynkar's family: "I am truly sorry and live every day regretting what I have done". He won't be eligible for parole until he's 59.

'Gear up' for motorcycle safety

The Illinois Department of Transportation is starting a statewide campaign called “Gear Up,” pushing rider training for motorcycle users. Free training courses are being offered. Motorcycle safety is the aim. While motorcycles represent less than 3 percent of all registrations in Illinois, motorcycle fatalities are almost 14 percent of all vehicle deaths.

Community colleges worried

Illinois community colleges like Heartland in Bloomington say they may have to turn students away or raise tuition fees if they don’t get more money from the state. Nearly two-thirds of those in higher education in Illinois attend community colleges.

Immigration bill considered

An attorney with the Southern Poverty Law Center says an illegal immigration bill is an empty gesture of defiance that will wind up in court. However, some members of the Alabama Senate say something has to be done to slow the number of illegal immigrants in this state. Opponents maintain the legislation is unconstitutional.

Man convicted on lesser charge

A jury in Hanson County finds 21 year old Justin Iburg guilty of reckless driving, but acquits him on the much more serious charge of second-degree manslaughter. Iburg was accused of reading a text message while he was driving last September, causing the death of 44 year old John Christensen when he ran into his motorcycle at a construction site near Mitchell.

Postal changes coming

Postal Service changes are coming to Aberdeen. The downtown post office closes the middle of next month and the U.S. Postal Service is talking about moving its mail sorting efforts to the distribution facility in Huron. Local businesses held a meeting yesterday to discuss how the changes might affect them

Jorgensen to receive award

The Brandon Loyalty Day Committee has announced that local broadcaster Don Jorgensen has been selected to receive the prestigious Voice of the Veterans Award. The award will be presented in a ceremony on May 1st before the 45th Annual Loyalty Day Parade in Brandon. He's being honored for his service to the Air National Guard and his reports on Veterans issues.

Johnson signs on to Taxpayer Receipt Act

Senator Tim Johnson cosponsored the Taxpayer Receipt Act today, which would require the Treasury Department to provide all taxpayers with a free, easy to understand, one-page document that itemizes how their tax dollars were spent across all major categories. It would allow you and I to see where the federal government spends our money.

Accused Child Rapist Pleads Not Guilty

Steven Allen Brende, the man accused of rape and sexual contact against a then 7-year-old boy pleaded not guilty to four felony charges in Minnehaha County court yesterday. 54 year old Brende, faces up to life in prison if convicted on either count of first-degree rape and 15 years in prison on either count of sexual contact with a child under the age of 16.
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Strum Sentenced to 40 Years

It will be 40 years in prison for a SF man convicted of beating and killing 27 year old Joseph Cynkar and leaving his body in a deserted field. 23 year old Payton Strum was sentenced yesterday in Minnehaha County court. Strum apologized and took full responsibility for his actions. Strum told the victim's family "I am truly sorry and live every day regretting what I have done".

County Health Rankings

Brookings County continues to have the healthiest residents in South Dakota, and Shannon County remains the least healthy, according to the second annual County Health Rankings released today. Lincoln County ranked second overall; Minnehaha County is 16th.

Man Indicted For ATM Theft

A Sioux Falls man's been indicted for grand theft after telling Minnehaha County Sheriff's the stolen ATM in his basement was put there by someone else. The Argus Leader reports 50-year old Cole McCormick, was 1st questioned last November. The ATM was stolen Nov. 20 from the VFW building in Mitchell. It held $86-hundred in cash and was worth about $3,000.

Interstate 29 to get a makeover

The South Dakota Department of Transportation plans to widen Interstate 29 to six lanes through Sioux Falls. Eventually a bridge over I-229 will connect 59th and 69th street near the South Dakota Heart Hospital. It's meant to make life easier, and to drive south side development. Construction will begin later this summer, and costs are shared between the city and the state.

Restaurant week launches Friday

Here's a great excuse to dine out. Downtown Sioux Falls Inc. will launch Downtown Restaurant Week on Friday, and it runs through April 7. Eight downtown restaurants will feature special lunch or dinner options at three fixed price points between $10 and $25. When you buy a featured item you'll be entered into a prize drawing for gift certificates from participating restaurants.

Sale in Brandon

The 11th annual Brandon citywide rummages will be held May 6-7. To list your rummage sale, go to www.brandonrummages.com.
For more information, contact Wendy Kessler at 582-330 or by email at wendy@brandonrummages.com.

4 Trying to Win One Seat

Tuesday night three of the four applicants for an open seat on the Sioux Falls city council faced the public. The council and the league of women voters hosted the forum. All four are vying for one open council seat. Bob Litz's position for Northwest District seat is the open position.

More Flooding Possible Due To Snow Melt

More snow melt is expected to be an issue along the Big Souix. Officials say that accumulated snow farther upstream is expected to melt and dump into the river. “Things are looking good,” Minnehaha County Emergency Manager Lynn DeYoung said. Water in Renner and elsewhere is continuing to recede, he said.

Farm To You Program for Third Graders

Fourth graders in SF will get the cahnce to learn about agriculture on April 5 during the “From farm to you ... more than the oink” program. More than 300 students in the area will benefit from the program. Mark Twain, Laura B. Anderson, Oscar Howe, Holy Spirit and St. Lambert elementary schools. The South Dakota Pork Producers Council is the main sponsor of the program.

Brandon Mayoral Forum Tonight

Tonight's the form for Brandon's 2 mayoral candidates- incumbent Larry Beesley and challenger Dan Mostek. It starts at 7 in the Brandon City Council chambers. Brandoninfo.com reports the candidates will answer prepared questions and those submitted by the public. The forum is jointly sponsored by the BVACC, the Brandon Valley Challenger and Sunny Radio.

Insurance Bill Veto Override

South Dakota legislators ended the session yesterday by overriding Gov. Daugaard's veto of a bill blocking insurance companies from offering policies that charge higher co-payments for visits to chiropractors than to primary care physicians. The legislation takes effect July 1. The Argus Leader reports Some insurance companies were charging a $50 or $60 co-pay for a chiropractor labeled as a specialist and $20 to $25 co-pay for a family doctor. The average cost of a routine chiropractor visit in South Dakota is $40.

Woman sentenced for scamming Sioux Falls credit union

25-year old Kaila Naomi Scofield has been sentenced to nine months in prison for defrauding a Sioux Falls Credit Union. She's accused of depositing fraudulent checks into her account and immediately withdrawing the money. She'll also pay $4400 in restitution.

Sioux Falls cuts school positions

In light of budget cuts, the Sioux Falls school district is cutting at least nine positions. The responsibilities those folks had will be divided up among remaining staff. Spokesperson DeeAnn Konrad says the cut positions include director of instructional support services; fine and performing arts coordinator; Indian and homeless education coordinator; four early childhood administrators; and two elementary assistant principals.

SF Schools Cuts

The Sioux Falls School District is eliminating several administrative positions in response to a projected $7 million reduction in state aid next year. The director of instructional support services position will not be refilled after Bill Smith retires at the end of this school year. Ann Davis becomes principal of Eugene Field, the district’s fine arts elementary school. Principal Kathy Coulter is retiring from Eugene Field this year.

Floods 2

across Minnehaha County and Emergency Management Director Lynn DeYoung credits that with colder temperatures slowing the melt and helping the floodwater levels. DeYoung says it's hard to predict when we could see a sharp increase in flood water again. He says any significant rain could bring it up sooner than later.

CC Permit

The state's most populous county is on pace to issue a record number of concealed weapons permits. bMinnehaha County has had 477 permits for concealed weapons issued in the first nine weeks of the year. A continuation at that rate would surpass the single-year record of 2,280 permits issued in Minnehaha County in 2009. A concealed weapons permit in South Dakota costs $10 and lasts four years.

Roads improving

Roads are reportedly improving in some areas, but drivers need to be aware that conditions are not perfect. ZHigh waters in Renner continue to be a concern. Preston Evans, Sergeant of the County Sheriff’s Department says “The only residential area that we are concerned about now is the Renner area and that's going to be manned on an at-need basis,”

Bad bridges noted

One group reports South Dakota bridges are among some of the worst in the nation. Transportation for America says they're the fifth worst in the U.S., with more the 20-percent of them rated as "structurally deficient." One of the worst is the 41st Street bridge in Sioux Falls, which has nearly 30-thousand cars and trucks a day crossing it.

Sioux

The Legislative Redistricting Committee has decided to hold public hearings this summer as lines are redrawn. They'll hold meetings in Rapid City, Sioux Falls and on the Pine Ridge and Rosebud Indian reservations. The legislature will finalize the redistricting plan in a special session October 24. Legislative districts are redrawn every 10 years to reflect population shifts.

Two more lottery winners in Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls has had two more lucky winning lottery tickets. South Dakota Lottery officials say a Mega Millions ticket worth $10,000 in Friday's drawing was sold in Sioux Falls, and a winning $5,000 Wild Card 2 ticket in the Saturday drawing was sold in Wagner. The $5,000 winner from last Wednesday's Wild Card 2 drawing has already come forward to claim their prize.

Low Performing School

Twelve South Dakota schools have been identified as "persistently low-achieving" and eligible to compete this spring for $2.5 million in federal school improvement grants. Falling in the second teir is Joe Foss alternative school in Sioux Falls.

Flooding is What's Expected

Renner is catching the brunt of spring flooding. Water has begun flowing down Main Street, Renner Fire Chief Mike Schmitz said Thursday. County Highway 130 leading to town is closed to outside traffic. Minnehaha County is seeing usual flooding, so nothing is out of the ordinary says Emergency Manager Lynn DeYoung.

BVHS Cuts Proposed

Brandon Valley High School administrators are looking to trim $1.6 million from next year's school budget in response to cuts in state aid to education. One full time elementary teacher and five middle school coaching positions could be cut to help with the solution according to a proposal made by Superintendent David Pappone. He also suggested that administrators take a pay cut, and some positions work fewer hours.

Face It Together

A Sioux Falls program's starting to help drug addicts and alcoholics. Face It Together Sioux Falls says it'll businesses money and begin to spare many the shame of their problem. The Argus Leader reports there's a town hall meeting tomorrow to talk about the Face It Together initiative at the Holiday Inn City Centre. Kevin Kirby, CEO and co-founder of Face It Together, says 10% of the population suffers from addiction, about 24-thousand in metro Sioux Falls, most of whom never go for treatment.

Washington High School Scare

Sioux Falls Police are looking into the discover of what may have been a small explosive device by the Washington High School, School store yesterday. Investigators tell KDLT the device looks like a small cylinder, the size of a finger, with a fuse and packed with gunpowder. the school was searched after the item was found, but nothing related to it turned up.

South Dakota meat production dips slightly

The Agriculture Department says commercial red meat production for South Dakota totaled 85.7 million pounds during February, down 6 percent from January but up 22 percent over the year. February pork production was up from a year ago, but sheep and lamb production was down.

Explosive device found at high school, not a cause for concern

A small explosive device found Thursday afternoon at Washington High School wasn't harmful, but school resource officer Hank Bayne called the Sioux Falls Police Department just to make sure. A student found it on the windowsill outside the school store near the commons area. That student was never in danger.

Construction

The start of road construction season as early as next month probably will cause some traffic headaches along Sioux Falls roadways this summer. The Argus Leader says that Two of the most significant projects are the reconstruction of the Cliff Avenue and 10th Street intersection and the addition of a third lane to Interstate 29 from 26th to 57th streets.

Renner Flooding

Renner is getting hit with flood water, hitting homes just west of town. Water surrounded many of the homes on the west side. Water on the road has shut down a portion of Renner's main street and is flowing just beneath the bridge. Officers were patrolling the roadway all night to keep drivers away from the area. Waters near that bridge continue to rise and the Big Sioux is expected to crest within the next 24 hours.

Two Minors Arrested In School Parking Lot

Two minors were arrested in the parking lot of Brandon Valley High School on drug-related charges Wednesday after some passers-by reported two teens with weapons. The minors were taken into custody on drug-related charges according to Brandon Police Chief Dave Kull. he says a BB gun was found in the truck of the vehicle.

The Life Protection Fund Gets Boost Since New Abortion Law Took Effect

South Dakota's new abortion law is getting some opposition. A public fund to defend the law is getting some major donations. About 20 thousand dollars has been raise for The Life Protection Fund which was established in 2006, to defend a previous abortion law against lawsuits. Since Governor Daugaard signed the new abortion bill into law, the fund has grown by about $3,000, to more than $19,000.

Report Potholes

The City of Sioux Falls is asking for your help. KDLT would like you to let them know, by phone or email, where the potholes are. The Public Works Department says their goal is to repair potholes within 24 hours of being reported, with the cooperation of the weather. You can contact Public Works to report potholes by calling 605-367-8002 or by emailing potholes@siouxfalls.org.

Arrests Outside Brandon Valley HIgh

Two minors were arrested in the Brandon Valley High School parking lot yesterday on drug-related charges, after some passers-by reported two teens with weapons. Police tell brandoninfo.com officers responding to the report of teens with weapons found a BB gun in the cars trunk. Police say the arrest wasn't connected to the school and there was no threat to the school.

Open house tonight to talk about roads

The City of Sioux Falls and the South Dakota Department of Transportationare holding a public open house tonight to talk about construction projects that will affect roads in and around the city this year. The open house is from 5:30 to 7:30 in Meeting Rooms 11 and 12 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center. You'll be able to learn first hand about any of the street construction projects scheduled for this year and also any projects being studied for construction in coming years.

High-tech manufacturer Moving to SF

High-tech manufacturer Legacy Electronics is in the process of moving from San Clemente to Sioux Falls. Legacy, founded in 1993, designs and manufactures high-speed, high-density memory modules, printed circuit boards and other computer products. It holds several patents including for its Canopy brand chip-stacking process. No word on how many jobs it will create.

U.S. Senator Tim Johnson Continues Plans for Support of Community Health Center

U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) continued his efforts to support a plan to develop a community health center in Yankton County. Johnson and area health care leaders discussed the progress that has been made on the potential health center, which would provide essential care to uninsured and underserved individuals in the county.

Sioux Falls Area Literacy Council Announces Linda Daugaard will be the guest speaker

The Sioux Falls Area Literacy Council is pleased to announce that Linda Daugaard will be the guest speaker for the 14th Annual Literacy Breakfast, to be held April 12, 2011 beginning at 7:00am at the Ramkota Best Western Conference Center.
Each year the Literacy Council Breakfast brings together community members that have an interest in the state of Adult Literacy in our community. Now in its 25th year, The Sioux Falls Area Literacy Council is dedicated to meeting the needs of those with low reading and writing skills

Feedlots Win over EPA

A federal appeals court's ruled high-density feedlots must get a Clean Water Act permit only if manure actually flows into a waterway, which already is illegal in South Dakota in most circumstances. Farm groups praised the ruling which rapped the EPA for exceeding its authority in regulating concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs). The Argus Leader reports that until now, the agency required a permit if the feedlot was designed with a "potential to discharge," regardless of whether there is any runoff.

Stabbing Arrest

A 19-year-old Sioux Falls woman's been charged with aggravated assault after Police say she stabbed an acquaintance 5 times with a knife. Police found arrested Jessica Linville during a traffic stop near Walmart on East 10th Street after the victim talked to officer at the Sanford Health Emergency room at about 10 p.m. The stabbing victim's injuries were described as non-life-threatening. Aggravated assault carries a maximum 15 years in state prison.

Flooding Road Closures

Flooding's forced a shutdown of several roads in Minnehaha County. On the list County Highway 104 (Jasper Street)-East of Dell Rapids
Minnehaha County Highway 114 (250th Street)-West of Baltic A number of roads in Dell Rapids and Sverdrup Townships are also closed due to rising flood waters.

New hotel in the works for Sioux Falls

A new hotel could be coming to 69th and Louise. The land was originally set up for medical facilities and offices, but Howell Hospitality would like to build a hotel there. The Sioux Falls City Council will hold a public hearing and a second reading on the proposal April 4. The proposal already has been approved by the city planning commission.

19-year old arrested after stabbing

Police found 19-year old Jessica Yvonne Linville during a traffic stop near Walmart on East 10th Street last night after a 22-year old woman as treated for stab wounds at the Sanford Health Emergency room. Sioux Falls police said a fight broke out over property belonging to two other people, when Linville reportedly stabbed the other woman. Aggravated assault carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in the state penitentiary.

Fundraiser Planned

A fundraiser is planned for Saturday to help the family of Sage and Steven Hopper Sr., who perished in a house fire earlier this month. The rummage, bake and craft sale and raffle will be held from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.Saturday at the Knights of Columbus in Sioux Falls. Sage’s mother Vicki and his 4-year-old brother Seth are left without a home and most of their household belongings because of extensive smoke and water damage.

Minnehaha Road Closures

Minnehaha County officials have closed some area roads due to the flooding.
Closed Roads Include:
Minnehaha County Highway 104 (Jasper Street)-East of Dell Rapids
Minnehaha County Highway 114 (250th Street)-West of Baltic
A number of roads in Dell Rapids and Sverdrup Townships are also closed due to rising flood waters as well.

Pancakes, Praise and Prayer To Be Held Saturday

Pancakes, Praise and Prayer, an inspirational event will be held Saturday, March 26, at 9 a.m., at Faith United Presbyterian Church in Brandon.
Pancakes, sausages and mixed fruit will be served. A free will donation will be accepted to cover expenses.

No Bail

No Bail for the Sioux Falls woman accused of three armed casino robberies.
Nicole Thode, 36, is charged with three counts of robbery for two incidents at Blinky's Casino in Brandon and another at Easy Dough Casino in Sioux Falls. On Monday, her lawyer, Victoria Reker, told Judge Bill Srtska that Thode was shocked by the allegations and taken aback when officers arrived at her Sioux Falls home last week.

Baltic Area Roads Watched for Flooding

Minnehaha County emergency management is watching two highways near Baltic as water threatens to cover them. A stretch of highway just west of Baltic has water filling the field adjacent to it, and high water also is rising between Midway Corner on Highway 115 and the Big Sioux River. A county spokesperson tells the Argus Leader they'll probably close the highway west of Baltic and the area west of Midway Corner in the next day or two.

Daygaard Signs 3 Day Abortion Wait

Gov. Daugaard signed a law today requiring women to wait three days after meeting with a doctor to have an abortion, the longest waiting period in the nation. Abortion rights groups have already said they'll file a lawsuit challenging the measure, which also requires women to undergo counseling at pregnancy help centers that discourage abortions. KRQE TV reports the governor says state attorneys who will defend the law in court and a sponsor's promised the money for the state's legal costs.

Farmland Drainage

Extension agents from South Dakota and Minnesota will hold a tile drainage workshop tomorrow in Sioux Falls. The focus will be on planning and designing farmland drainage systems. The $120 registration fee includes lunch, course materials and refreshments. The workshop is 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn. Register at www.regonline.com/SubsurfaceMarch, or call South Dakota extension agent Chris Hay at 688-5610.

Brandon Mayoral Forum Tuesday in Council Chambers

A forum that will feature Brandon's two candidates for mayor will happen March 29. Incumbent Larry Beesley and challenger Dan Mostek will answer prepared questions and those submitted by the public. Questions may be submitted prior to the March 29 forum to the Brandon Valley Area Chamber of Commerce. Brandon’s city election is April 12.


email to brancofc@alliancecom.net.

36-year old mother surprised by charges

36-year old Nicole Thode pleaded not guilty yesterday after being charged with three counts of robbery for two incidents at Blinky's Casino in Brandon, and another at Easy Dough Casino in Sioux Falls. The Argus Leader reports Thode was surprised by the charges and shocked when officers arrived at her home last week. Surveillance video captured her vehicle. She wanted bond reduced so she could go home to care for her husband who is recovering from surgery and their 13-year old child, but bond remained at $10,000 cash.

Airport Authority Proposed

Officials in Lincoln County are looking at the idea of creating an airport authority to oversee the Marv Skie-Lincoln County Airport located between Tea and Sioux Falls. The authority would set policy, negotiate contracts and have the power to levy property taxes to help pay for airport operations.

Tech Colleges Boast High Job Placement

South Dakota’s four technical institutes boasted high job-placement rates again this year, with a combined graduate placement rate of 96 percent. The placement report for the 2009-2010 school year was presented to the South Dakota Board of Education during a meeting yesterday.

Sesquicentennial Celebration

Minnehaha County commissioners are asking communities to work together to celebrate the county's Sesquicentennial, or 150th birthday in layperson's terms, in 2012.
The commission recently approved the formation of an ad hoc committee to plan and carry out activities throughout the year.

Accused Casino Thief Pleads Not Guilty

The Sioux Falls woman charged with three counts of robbery in connection with three casino heists plead not guilty.
36-year-old Nicole Thode is accused of robbing the Blinky's Casino in Brandon twice and also holding up the Easy Dough Casino on West 12th Street in Sioux Falls. She was in court yesterday. The judge set her bond at 10-thousand dollars cash.

Accused Robbery Suspect Cries

A woman accused of robbing two Brandon casinos and one in Sioux Falls cried when she appeared before a judge this morning. 36-year old Nicole Thode's accused of using what appeared to be a gun in each robbery. She cried when told she'd need $10-grand to be released on bond.

Sioux Falls Ready for Flooding

The levees will hold and the spillway is strong enough to handle any potential flood. KELO reports Sioux Falls says it's ready for any potential flood that may come down the Big Sioux or Skunk Creek. If the rains do come and the river rises, the city says it's got plenty of resources available to deal with it.

Teachers' property could be searched under proposed policy

The local teachers union is rallying against a proposed policy that would allow Sioux Falls School District administrators to search employees' private cell phones, purses and vehicles for suspected violations of policy. The supervisor would just need a reasonable suspicion in order to search any personal property an employee brings to school.

Fire damages duplex

A fire Saturday night damaged a duplex in north Sioux Falls. Fire officials say the duplex had no working smoke detectors, but no one inside was injured. Firefighters found the fire in a clothes dryer and contained it to the laundry room at the home at 1413 North Elmwood. Red Cross workers have been helping the victims.

Souix City Mail Jbs Moving Here

110 Sioux City postal jobs are on the chopping block as the federal government announced its intention to study the effect of consolidating some of Sioux City's mail processing work to Sioux Falls. Souix City postal union members met on Sunday to develop a game plan to save the mail processing plant and the jobs.

Flooding

Kingsbury and Clark counties are the latest to issue travel advisories due to floodwaters running across rural roads, and two sections of South Dakota Highways are closed.
Beadle County is advising no unnecessary travel on township roads because some are washed out. Hamlin County has some isolated township roads that are shut down. Sioux Falls officials say minor flooding in the city and elsewhere along the southern Big Sioux River so far has been typical of spring runoff.

Students in the Area Excel

Sioux Falls and Harrisburg are among 388 school districts nationwide recognized for raising participation in Advanced Placement classes and improving pass rates on AP exams.
The two are the only South Dakota districts on the College Board's AP Achievement List. Both districts improved exam pass rates - scoring a 3 or higher, which usually earns students college credit - from 48 percent in 2008 to 59 percent last year.

Historic Home Destroyed By Fire, No Injuries

No one was injured in a house fire Friday morning near Rowena. The house was fully engulfed in flames about 6:40 a.m. and was under control by 8:30 a.m. 75 year old Donna Webster lived in the 100 year old home, just north of the intersection of Highway 42 and 483rd Avenue, but she was not home at the time.

Woman Charged in Casino Robberies

A Sioux Falls woman's in custody, charged with robberies at 3 different casino's. KSFY reports 36-year old Nicole Thode is charged in 2 robberies at Blinky's Casino in Brandon, and one at the East Dough in Sioux Falls.

Local High Schools Represented in Poetry Out Loud

Eight South Dakota high school students will share their talents and the works of great poets while competing for the state title at the Poetry Out Loud contest at 1 Monday afternoon at Edison Middle School in Sioux Falls. Poetry Out Loud's a national arts education program, encouraging the study of poetry in high schools across the country. The local competitors represent Brandon Valley; Brookings; Rosholt; Lincoln; Vermillion; Watertown; and Wilmot High Schools and Freeman Academy. .

Flooding minor so far

Officials have their eye on flooding potential this spring, but they say so far any runoff is typical and minor. Governor Dauggard was in the area this week, and said crews have plans in place to deal with flooding this spring as snow melts.

Hardee's trainer indicted

36-year-old Shannon Manniger of Wisconsin came to Sioux Falls to train employees at a Hardee's, and he has been indicted on fourth-degree rape charges for allegedly having sex with a 15-year-old trainee. Each count carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. He remains in custody on a $25,000 cash bond.

Facebook helps family

A Sioux Falls movement has grown to over two thousand members on Facebook. Project Help Your Neighbor was started by an actual neighbor, Clint Siemonsma. Gary and Darlene Nipp's house burned back in February of 2010, and Siemonsma decided to help them. Demolition of the home has begun, and now the rebuilding can get underway. The facebook page brings friends, contractors, and other businesses together to help the Nipps free of charge.

River is Still Low Enough

The Big Sioux River is already over its banks in parts of the Sioux Falls but so far no home or business has been submerged. Analysis of the river saw flows surge earlier in the week, but then significantly dropped in the past 36 hours. The Corps of Engineers determined that the emergency measures are not necessary.

Jackson Farm and Home Show This weekend

More than 60 exhibitors will pack into the AGCO Engineering Center/Showroom this Saturday for the 30th annual Jackson Farm and Home Show, making the 2011 version of the popular spring kickoff event one of the largest ever. The Great Plains Zoo Express, from Sioux Falls, S.D., will present various animal species from 9 to 11 a.m.

Accused Child Molestor Pleads Not Guilty

The Sioux Falls man accused of raping his girlfriend’s children pleaded not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual contact. Kermit Gene Myers made his plea yesterday morning. Meyers was arrested on the charges Feb. 25 following reports from the children’s grandmother

Renner Prepares for Flooding

Residents in Renner are preparing for flooding with snadbags. Officials were telling people to prepare for flooding and last night homeowners got to work. Hundreds of sandbags lined the streets and almost every homeowner was out building a wall around their house Thursday night.

Corps Suspends Emergency Levee Work

Recent warm, dry weather's lowered the expectations that there'll be record flooding in Sioux Falls, and so the federal government's decided to delay emergency work to upgrade the city's lessened the likelihood of record flooding in Sioux Falls and prompted the federal government to delay emergency work to upgrade the city's levee system. The Argus Leader reports The Army Corps of Engineers has suspended indefinitely bidding for emergency work to raise the city's levees.

Branden Valley Bd of Ed Kindergarten

The Brandon Valley School Board wants to hear from you at their March 28th meeting. They've looked over the data from the all day kindergarten pilot program at Valley Springs Elementary, and heard from teachers and administrators, now they want to know what you think.

Man sentenced for choking a woman, and eluding police

A man accused of using a belt to choke an Aberdeen woman was sentenced Wednesday to 35 years in prison for aggravated assault and another five years for eluding police. 25-year-old Carlos Green of Sioux Falls pleaded guilty back in February to those charges; also to drunk driving.

Brandon school hearing information

You have a week left to submit written comments to Superintendent Dave Pappone regarding all-day kindergarten and budget matters. Parents are also invited to the March 28th board meeting when these things will be discussed in full. Efforts in the state legislature to pro-rate kindergarten funding would impact the decision as well.

Written remarks can be submitted to Superintendent Pappone by email at david.pappone@k12.sd.us

Oral testimony will begin at approximately 6:30 p.m. at the March 28th school board meeting held in the Middle School Library. The Board is scheduling 45 minutes for comments.

Marshall Flood Warning

The National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, S.D., has issued a flood warning for the Redwood River in Marshall from Sunday morning until further notice.
Flood stage on the river is 14 feet; as of Wednesday the river was at 9.2 feet, the NWS said.
The river level is expected to continue to rise to near 14.9 feet by 1 a.m Tuesday, the NWS said, causing minor flooding of low lying areas around Marshall.

Renner May Get Hit With Flooding Next Week

The latest projections show the Big Sioux River may crest at more than three feet above flood stage next Wednesday...and then stay above flood stage for awhile.
Last night, Minnehaha County emergency managers met with Renner residents to answer questions and talk about concerns.

Harrisburg School Board Buying More SF Land

The Harrisburg School Board is buying land to build another school within the city limits of Sioux Falls.
The district already has two elementary schools in southern Sioux Falls. Jim Holbeck says Explorer Elementary should be at capacity in two years, and Journey Elementary will be full within three years.

Power Out Yesterday

Power took a hit in SF, Rowena and Brandon after a car hit a light pole yesterday afternoon causing the power outage to more than 4,500 Xcel Energy customers.
Power outages occurred shortly before 3 p.m. according to Xcel spokesman Jim Clark.

Citi Youth Leadership Awards Taking Nominations

The HELP!Line Center is pleased to be accepting applications for the Citi Youth Leadership Awards, a scholarship program for Sioux Empire area seniors involved in community service. Applications are due March 28.
Citi, the sponsor of the scholarships, will award six $1,000 scholarships in 2011.
Applications are available at school guidance counselor offices, at www.helplinecenter.org or by dialing 2-1-1.

Pla\nned Power Outage

An Excel Energy Power Outage is scheduled for today from 7 am to 5 pm (length of outage will vary). Unplug or turn off all major appliances. Leave a single lamp on so you know when your power returns. Garage doors, sump pumps and other equipment that operates only on electrical power will not work during the outage. Remember to remove your car from the garage before the power outage begins. Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer during the outage. The less you open the doors the longer your food will stay cold.

Levee Funding

A funding glitch that threatened to slow down city flood preparations has been cleared up, as the federal government cane through with emergency money to build levees. The Argus Leader reports the emergency flood control project will raise levees along the Big Sioux River from Watertown to Akron, Iowa.
The timing was critical. Skunk Creek could crest by Sunday night, with the Big Sioux cresting the last week of March.

Flooding: Daugaard Says Be Prepared

Flooding's the topic of conversation for Gov. Daugaard as stopped in several areas today, including Sioux Falls, to spread the message: be prepared for flooding. Daugaard says while the threat to Sioux Falls levees' down, many other areas along the Big Sioux are in for record flooding. KELO reports the Governor says while state and local governments are working together on response plans, it's up to individual homeowners to take care of themselves and their neighbors now.

Inmates on Sandbag Duty

A 50-person crew from the Department of Corrections is in Dell Rapids filling sandbags. KELO reports the community had hoped the inmates would fill 3,000 bags today, but they got 5000 filled in their first 2 hours. They'll fill 10,000 bags before they stop work in Dell Rapids and move to Renner.

Sturgis winner claims prize, Sioux Falls winner has yet to come forward

A $5000 Wild Card 2 Lottery prize still looms in Sioux Falls. The other half of the winning ticket has been claimed in Sturgis. Odds of having this winning ticket are about 1 in 90,000. The Sioux Falls winner should sign the back of the ticket and contact the Sioux Falls lottery office.

Ice Melts on Big Souix

The layer of ice covering the Big Sioux River is beginning to melt, allowing water to flow again. But, it's the question of how much water will be flowing that worries city and county officials. Sioux Falls Public Works Director Mark Cotter says city officials can predict when the ice will melt and potential problem could start.

3 File to Fill Seat

Three applicants for the Northwest District open seat for the Sioux Falls City Council had submitted notices of interest: Dean Karsky, Mark Millage and James Ysbrand all want the position. The deadline for applicants is noon today to fill the seat vacated by Councilor Bob Litz after his successful bid to become Minnehaha County auditor.
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Flood Prep Starts

Not that Spring has officially sprung, preparations are underway in Yankton, Mitchell, Aberdeen, Sioux Falls and Renner, all areas that could be affected by flooding. Those are areas where rapid melt-off is expected to push river levels higher and lead to big problems with flooding. Last year, Renner residents took a hard hit by floodwaters.

St. Patrick's Day AAA Tipsy Tow

AAA South Dakota's offering free tows over the St. Patrick’s Day holiday to keep drunk drivers off the streets. Tipsy Tow starts at noon, March 17, St. Patty’s Day, and runs until 6 a.m. March 18. Just call (800) 222-4357 and tell the AAA dispatcher you need Tipsy Tow. The program's being a community service in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, Mitchell and Yankton.

Minnehaha Waiting for Flooding

Minnehaha County's watching its' neighbors to the north, waiting for the snow to melt. But that isn't stopping its emergency management team from putting a plan in place. KELO reports the County's basing its flood plan on the past, preparing areas in northern Minnehaha County near Renner, Baltic, and Dell Rapids, which typically have some flooding. The difference this year's it'll probably be much worse.

Afternoon headlines

An injury accident happened this morning at 22nd and Western Avenue in Sioux Falls. Tow trucks worked for about an hour to remove the vehicles, and the way is clear now The condition of those injured has not been released.

22-year old Melissa Ann Iford from California is accused of stealing an Arizona woman's identity to apply for cash advances in South Dakota and Nebraska. She has pleaded guilty to four counts of access device fraud. She used a declined credit card to ask for cash advances, including several thousand dollars at Wells Fargo in downtown Sioux Falls. She faces up to 10 years in prison on each count.

Power outage this Thursday

Excel Energy reminds us there will be a power outage this Thursday between 7am and 5pm. The length of the outage will vary. Some reminders from Excel: Unplug or turn off all major appliances. Leave a single lamp on so you know when your power returns. Remove your car from the garage before the power outage begins. Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer during the outage. The less you open the doors the longer your food will stay cold.

ops Collide

A two car crash had police already on scene last night as the two cars involved were police crusiers. Two police officers ran into each other while trying to assist another officer with a a traffic stop near the corner of Benson Road and Cliff Avenue. No injuries reported.

Meeting to Talk About Flooding

The Minnehaha County Emergency Management, Highway and Sheriff's Departments, in cooperation with Mapleton Township have organized a public meeting for Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. at the Mapleton Township Hall in Renner to talk about local flooding.

Conservation Reserve Program Sign Up Reminder

U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) reminded South Dakota producers to visit their local Farm Service Agency (FSA) office to sign-up for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). Passed as part of the 2008 Farm Bill, CRP is a voluntary program that compensates producers with annual rental payments and cost-share assistance if they establish long-term, resource conserving covers on eligible farmland. General sign-up runs through April 15, 2011.

SoS Says Beware of Who to Donate To

South Dakota Secretary of State Jason Gant says people who are thinking about donating money in the wake of the deadly earthquake and tsunami in Japan should first “check out the charity,” and make sure that they are reputable and registered to do business in South Dakota. “Our office maintains an on-line list of those non-profit organizations that are registered to conduct business in our state. Both non-profit and for-profit corporations must be registered with the Secretary of State's office. “

Worries About Dell Rapids Flooding

The Big Sioux River at Dell Rapids is still covered with a sheet of ice. But over the next couple of days, KELO reports it could thaw and spill out of its banks. Some residents are getting worried about how much water could spill out of the banks and into their homes. Sandbagging preparation and related work's due to start Wednesday.

Minnehaha County Jail Kitchen

Minnehaha County Commissioners looking for bids for a $2.8 million kitchen addition at the count jail. Meals have been prepared at a kitchen in an other facility that's 2 miles from the jail. The new kitchen is set for completion this year. Bids for construction of the facility will be opened April 5.

Move to Delay Debit Card Fee Limit

Financial reforms have led to caps that would be imposed on what banks could charge retailers for debit card fees. Those caps are scheduled to begin in July. But Tim Johnson and John Thune are among U.S. senators siding with banks in arguing to delay the changes. Sen. Tim Johnson, voted against the cap, and he's chairman of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee.

Sioux Falls sells second prize lottery ticket

The South Dakota Lottery says Wild Card 2 tickets worth $5,000 in Saturday's drawing were sold in Sioux Falls and Sturgis. The two tickets matched all five white balls but not the Wild Card to win the game's second prize. The odds of winning are one in about 90,600.

Jobs available in health care

Good news if you're looking for a job. Two regional health care companies plan to add 700 employees at their Sioux Falls operations this year and hundreds elsewhere as part of the growth that's seen them quadruple their local workforce in 30 years. Both Sanford Health and Avera are looking to fill 300 to 350 positions in Sioux Falls this year. According to the Argus Leader, the positions will be in everything from research to nursing and technology.

SF Prepares for Possible Flooding

A flood warning has been issued for parts of the Black Hills because of ice jams and an excess of snow melt. The warning is in effect until 4 p.m. today. City Public Works Director Mark Cotter said Friday at a news conference that the priority now is raising the levee at the diversion channel north of Sioux Falls and protecting critical infrastructure.

New Kitchen at Jail

A new $2.8 million kitchen is being added at the Minnehaha County jail, and commissioners are seeking bidders. Warden Tim Devlin says the facility will be a welcome addition. Meals have been prepared at an old kitchen two miles from the jail.

Job Opening

The Lincoln County Planning and Zoning Board has an opening for District 4.
The board member would represent the city of Tea, a portion of south Sioux Falls and the remaining areas of Delapre Township.
For information, call the Lincoln County Planning and Zoning Office at 764-2938.

Flooding risk elevated this spring

Flooding risk is high this spring, and Sioux Falls is taking steps now to prepare. The city is bringing in construction equipment and materials to strengthen levees. The city will also put priority on protecting critical infrastructure including lights and power, water treatment and sewage. The Army Corp of Engineers is settign up a field office in Sioux Falls with up to 20 people to prepare for melting snowpack.

Discrimination Settlement

The U.S. District Court for the District of South Dakota has ordered the former property managers of the Lakeport Village Apartment in Sioux Falls, S.D., to pay a total of $30,000 in civil penalties because they racially discriminated against three families in violation of the Fair Housing Act, the Department of Justice announced yesterday.

Flooding Preperation

SF officials say there are preparing for wht may be severe flooding in the area. Mayor Mike Huether and members of his staff called a news conference yesterday to talk about steps the city is taking to prepare for the possible flooding. The city is bringing in construction equipment and materials to strengthen levies and improve drainage. The city also will work to protect critical infrastructure such as lights and power, water treatment and sewage.

Abortion Bill

A public fund to defend the state against lawsuits over abortion laws has about $14,500 in it, far less than what lawmakers think would be needed if the state would be challenged.
An approved bill was delivered to Gov. Dennis Daugaard on Tuesday, and he has until March 24 to sign it. The bill would require women seeking an abortion to wait 72 hours and then proceed with an abortion only after consulting a pregnancy help center.

Lawmakers Override Guv

The South Dakota House has voted to override Gov. Daugaard's veto of a bill raising annual vehicle registration fees to fund roads and bridges.
The State Senate's expected to do the same. the $42 registration fee for a typical car would climb to $51 this year and $60 in 2013.

St Patrick's Day Parade

The annual Sioux Falls St. Patrick's Day Parade starts at 2 Saturday afternoon in downtown. Police say Main Avenue between 5th and 2nd streets will be shut down starting at 12:30 p.m. for staging and de-staging. The parade route will be shut down at about 1:50 p.m. Before the parade, 14th Street will be closed briefly to allow runners in the St Patty's Day Mile road race to cross as they travel down Phillips Avenue from 17th Street to 5th.

Steps

The climb to the top may be a dangerous one. This weekend, Adam Nyhaug will climb the 119-year-old wooden steps from the Old Courthouse Museum attic up to the top of the clock tower, to move the hands forward on the four clock faces. The steps must be replaced for safety reasons, according to a 2005 structural engineering survey.

Ag Day

Governor Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed March 13-19 as National Ag Week in South Dakota to recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by agriculture. National Ag Day will be celebrated on March 15.
The National Ag Day program encourages every American to:
Understand how food and fiber products are produced
Appreciate the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable products
Value the essential role of agriculture in maintaining a strong economy
Acknowledge and consider career opportunities in the agriculture, food and fiber industry

Noem Breakfast Planned

Congresswoman Kristi Noem will speak at a Town Hall breakfast sponsored by Teapartysd.com this Saturday from 9:00-10:30 am. The meeting takes place at the Ramkota Hotel - Anex room on the east side of the Exhibit Hall.
the entry fee is $15 and includes a buffet breakfast.

School District Planning

South Dakota school districts will probably see fewer cuts than had been expected, but the Associated School Boards of South Dakota tells KELO districts shouldn't count on money that might not be there down the road. The association says districts should plan for an 8,6% cut now, and a 6.6% cut the following year.

Brandon Mayoral Forum

A forum, featuring Brandon’s two candidates for mayor – incumbent Larry Beesley and challenger Dan Mostek – is set for 7 p.m., Tuesday, March 29, in the city council chambers. Candidates will answer prepared questions and those submitted by the public. According to Brandoninfo.com you can submit Questions to be put to the candidates to the Brandon Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, 109 N. Pipestone or by email to brancofc@alliancecom.net.

State Senate Passes School Transport Change

Transporting young children between school and home would be the responsibility of parents under a bill that has passed the South Dakota Senate.
It is one of the mandates lawmakers are looking to repeal for school districts. The bill would remove requirements that districts either transport K-8 students who live more than five miles from school or reimburse those families that aren't offered bus service. Instead of a mandate, it would be up to local school boards to decide who to transport or compensate.

Airport to feature local artists

Sioux Falls Regional Airport is adding art work by local artists. Airport officials says the high volume of people would give local artists exposure, and it highlights the region for visitors. The airport has teamed up with the Sioux Falls Arts Council to create a long-range master plan for the purchase and display of more art.

The Estherville City Council decided to keep moving forward Monday with a storm sewer project

The Estherville City Council decided to keep moving forward Monday with a storm sewer project on Third Avenue North.
The project will alleviate flooding on North Fourth Street near Estherville Foods.

Parkig Restrictions Eased

The Sioux Falls City Council took action Monday night to ease some parking restrictions that had been in place for decades.
Some commercial work vehicles now will be allowed to be parked in front of residences. And the owners of recreational vehicles also will be allowed to park those vehicles in their driveways for up to 48 hours.

Smoking Ban Clears Committee

A state senate committee's approved a ban on smoking in public places, including bars and restaurants. The bill now goes to the full Senate for a vote.
Supporters say restaurant and bars workers are exposed to second-hand smoke that causes lung cancer, heart disease and other chronic ailments.
Opponents say the bill violates the private property rights of business owners. Cigar bars and tobacco shops are exempt from the ban.

Crow Lake Wind Farm On Line

The Crow Lake wind farm in South Dakota is up and running. KELO reports the last of the 108 turbines was ready late last month. North Dakota-based Basin Electric Power Cooperative sends the electricity to 135 rural electric systems in nine states.

Senate Rejects Child Custody Plan

The South Dakota Senate's rejected a child custody bill. KELO reports it would have created a presumption that judges split physical custody between both parents unless one waives custody or proves the other parent doesn't deserve equal time with a child. Supporters say it'd protect fathers rights of and give kids access to both parents after a divorce. Opponents were concerned it would limit a judges decision making.

Forward Sioux Falls launches campaign

Forward Sioux Falls set a goal of $11.2 million this year, and they announced at a campaign launch this morning they have $7.2 million. The campaign works toward economic development, and is focusing this year on business retention, expansion, and attraction...plus technology, public relations, and communication. They've raised nearly $25 million since 1987.

Senator Johnson's reminder for farmers

U.S. Senator Tim Johnson reminds South Dakota producers that the last day to sign up for the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program for hay, pasture and spring seeded crops is March 15. The program covers losses from damaging weather conditions. The Farm Service Agency office can help you apply.

Firefighter Accountability System Put to the Test

As fire ripped through a Colton home Monday morning the Minnehaha County rural fire departments had their new accountability system put to the test.
Baltic Fire Chief Michael Koopman says they implemented this system to keep firemen accountable and when you have so many different departments responding, he says you need to keep tabs on all those firefighters.

Bookies Booked

Two bookies from Brandon have been sentenced to house arrest and probation on federal charges of taking bets over the phone. Michael Reisch and his son Christopher each pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Sioux Falls on Nov. 18. Christopher was sentenced to eight months of home confinement, three years probation and a $3,000 fine. His father was sentenced to six months home confinement and three years of probation.

School Funding Cut Options

It's looking like South Dakota school districts won't see a full 10% cut in state support. KELO reports the House Appropriations Committee this morning passed a bill , reduce the funding cut to 8.6%. One senator now calls that the 'worst case scenario' for schools as legislators work on several other proposals to reduce the cut even more.

Fleury Back in Custody

A state prison inmate missing from a Sioux Falls treatment facility since Feb. 27 is back in custody. Baunita Fleury was arrested Saturday evening. Fleury walked away from the Glory House program a week ago. She was serving time for narcotics possession.

Meth Lab Cleanup Costs

A DEA budget cut's going to leave local taxpayers on the hook for the cleanup of toxic methamphetamine labs. It also means local law enforcement now has to find a local business that's certified and willing to handle the hazardous waste when a cleanup is necessary. A $10 million federal grant used by the DEA for the cleanup of clandestine drug labs was not renewed for the 2011 fiscal year.

House votes today on concussion bill

The South Dakota Senate has already passed the bill, and the House is voting today on a measure that would create new guidelines on how youth coaches and teams deal with concussions. The bill would require all coaches in sports sanctioned by the South Dakota High School Activities Association to complete a training program every year. It would also require any athlete who shows signs of a concussion to undergo an evaluation before returning to play.

More snow expected

Through Tuesday, the area is expected to get 2-3 inches of snow. Less than an inch is expected through today, but a second wave will spread through the area tomorrow. Snow accumulations will be heaviest to the south.

Father Son Dies in House Fire

Authorities say a young child and his father have died from smoke inhalation sustained in an overnight house fire in Sioux Falls.
The Minnehaha County Coroner's Office says preliminary findings show Steven John Hopper Sr., who was 52, and his son Sage, who was 3, died from accidental smoke inhalation.

SF Council Looking for Member

The Sioux Falls City Council is looking for a new member. Bob Litz officially resigned from the council Sunday after being elected as the next Minnehaha County Auditor.
Beginning Monday the Sioux Falls City Clerk's office will take applications to replace Litz.

Charged May Be Pending in Accident

Police have yet to determine if charges will be filed in an accident that happened last week. Police spokesman Sam Clemens said investigators were expected to meet with the Minnehaha County state's attorney's office Friday to determine whether any charges will be filed against the driver of the pickup that hit a 54-year-old woman and sent her to the hospital after being hit.

Back In Custody

A state prison inmate missing for the past week is back in custody. Baunita Fleury was apprehended in Sioux Falls Saturday morning. She walked away from the Glory House in Sioux Falls the night of February 27th. Fleury was serving drug sentences out of Brule and Minnehaha counties.

Brandon native Steven Brown has been appointed to the United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y.

U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) announced that Brandon native Steven Brown has been appointed to the United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. Johnson nominated Brown for an appointment earlier this year.

Obama's budget includes money for state park new Sioux Falls

President Obama's budget has $2.7 million set aside for a state park southeast of Sioux Falls. US Senator Tim Johnson says the money would help South Dakota buy 300 acres from a private landowner to create a state park on the Blood Run National Historic Site. Funding has to be approved by Congress.

Charges may be filed in pedestrian accident

An accident Wednesday sent a 54-year old Sioux Falls woman to the hospital, and now police are deciding if charges will be filed. The woman was walking in a crosswalk on East 23rd when a pickup hit her, and she's still listed in critical condition. Police may file charges against the driver of the pickup.

Basketball camp

Brandon Valley boys basketball camps for kids in grades K-5 will begin March 28th at Brandon Valley High School. Registration happens through Brandon Valley Middle School.

Soldier

A solider is safe and sound back home tonight. After his third deployment to Afghanistan Lieutenant Colonel David Auch returned late Thursday evening to a welcoming crowd at the Sioux Falls Regional Airport. Lots of family, friends and even Congresswoman Kristi Noem was there to greet him and he's just glad to be back.

Tea Fire

The Tea Fire department was called to a house fire on 273rd street in Lincoln County around 5:30 Thursday morning. Fire Rescue says a wood burning stove was the cause of that blaze. No one was injured.

Drive In

The Drive In Movies, long though to be a thing of the past, may be making a reappearance in Tea. Richard Peters, who runs a wholesale distribution business, is working to open the twin- screen drive-in theater with his wife, Roxanne, near Highway 17 and 272nd Street west of Tea. However, area residents are are concerned about increased traffic and how the drive-in will affect their lifestyles, so they are strongly opposing the idea.

Fire Kills One, Injures Child

A Souix Falls man who was rescued from from a house fire has died. The blaze happened on the 800 block of West 6th Street around 10 last night.
Firefighters arrived to find a woman and her two children standing outside the home.
She told crews that another child and a man were trapped inside. The child is in critical condition. The family has not been identified.

Tattoo Number 50

As of yesterday morning, Sunny Radio had 49 people wearing the station logo as a tattoo... Sherry Roozing of Sioux Falls was at Alien and Company Tattoos in Sioux Falls yesterday afternoon to become lucky number FIFTY to be branded with our brand of radio.

Pedestrian struck

A 54-year-old woman had life-threatening injuries after being hit by a vehicle yesterday morning. The Sioux Falls police department says the woman was struck in the crosswalk in the 1000 block of East 23rd Street near the Hospital campus. No criminal charges have been filed, but police continue to investigate.

50th listener gets her tattoo

You might feel like you're seeing them everywhere now. Sunny logo tattoos have turned into quite the craze. So far 49 folks have received the Sunny logo ink, and this afternoon Sherry Roozing of Sioux Falls is getting hers at Alien and Company Tattoos to become lucky number fifty. Skin N Bones Tattoos has also been part of the process.

olleen Moran has joined the City Attorney's Office

SF City Attorney Dave Pfeifle says Colleen Moran has joined the City Attorney's Office as Human Relations Manager/ ADA Coordinator/Assistant City Attorney.
Moran previously worked as Deputy State's Attorney for the Minnehaha County State's Attorney's Office.

Abortion Bill Passes

A South Dakota bill requiring women to undergo counseling and wait 72 hours for an abortion passed the state Senate Wednesday and is now headed to the governor.
It says an abortion could only be scheduled by a doctor who has personally met with a woman and determined whether she is voluntarily seeking the procedure.The measure passed 21-13.

Fronteir

Frontier Airlines is cleared for landing in Sioux Falls. The Denver-based airliner reached an agreement Wednesday to begin service in Sioux Falls on the Fourth of July. Frontier has had three instances of pulling out of agreements in the past in Rapid City, Sioux City and Fargo.

School Consolidation Bill

A legislative committee today narrowly defeated Gov. Daugaard's attempt to repeal the state's 100-student minimum school district size. In four years, the law has forced nine school districts to reorganize. Five others have 117 to 125 students this year, and Daugaard has said consolidation decisions should be left to local school boards.

Minnehaha County Owed

Minnehaha county provides welfare, medical and legal assistance to those families who can't afford it. They're supposed to pay it back when they can. But KELO reports often, they don't. In fact, the county is now owed $50 million. Who pays when they don't? You the taxpayer do.

Frontier adds service to Denver

Frontier airlines has announced it will start service from Sioux Falls to Denver July 4th. Promotional prices are up now, $74 one way.

Forum Planned for Friday

Area legislators will discuss the current legislative session at the Democratic Forum on Friday, March 4.
The meeting begins at noon at the Sioux Falls VFW.
Sen. Angie Buhl and Rep. Marc Feinstein are expected to participate. Democratic legislators from Minnehaha County have been invited, and other area legislators from both parties are welcome.

Pruning Demonstrations Planned

The Minnehaha County Master Gardeners and the South Dakota Cooperative Extension Service will be offering a walking workshop to demonstrate proper tree and shrub pruning techniques.
The tour will be held at the Minnehaha County Extension Office, 220 W. 6th St. in Sioux Falls, on March 30 from 6-7 p.m.

Dangerous Road Conditions

State officials have issued a warning about blowing snow making roads slippery and possibly dangerous as the evening wears on. A cold front's expected to move into the area, bringing freezing temperatures and turning wet and snowy areas to ice. Drivers are reminded to turn off the cruise control and slow down as road conditions can go from good to bad very quickly and without warning.

Texting Ban Fails in Committee

A South Dakota House committee's said no to a bill banning texting while driving. The bill had support of law enforcement groups and people affected by distracted driving accidents. KELO reports House Speaker Val Rausch says lawmakers could write a better bill to address other forms of distracted driving rather than just texting.

Registration Fee Hike

South Dakota lawmakers gave final approval yesterday to a bill raising annual vehicle registration fees to provide an extra $31 million to help counties, cities and townships take care of roads and bridges. If support holds in both chambers, lawmakers have enough votes to pass the registration fee increase over the governor's veto threat. According to the Argus Leader, the fees, last raised in 1999, must climb because current rates don't provide enough money to cover the cost of maintaining and fixing rural roads and bridges.

Gas prices up over ten cents

Gas prices are up at least 12 cents to 16 cents from last week. Though oil prices are moderating, analysts say things could get worse before they get better as unrest continues in the Middle East. Some good news if you call it that, analysts predict be probably won't see $4 gas in this part of the country.

Construction delays Wednesday

Something to keep in mind tomorrow. Traffic will be reduced on Sixth Street Wednesday between Phillips and Weber avenues from 9 to 3 to allow construction crews to continue pouring concrete for the river walls on the River Greenway project. Eastbound lanes will be closed, they'll have one westbound lane closed.

Trail

A multi-use trail to connect Brandon, Tea and Harrisburg to Sioux Falls could happen in as little as five years, planners said at open houses in Tea and in Brandon recently.
Members of the Sioux Falls Metropolitan Planning Organization presented the most feasible routes to connect the cities in a trail corridor. They also presented long-term options that could take a decade or more to create.

Missing Inmate

Police are looking for a missing inmate. 34-year-old Baunita Fleury reportedly walked away from the Glory House program in Sioux Falls just before 9 p.m. Sunday. She's described as Native American, 5'7" and weighs 145 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. Fleury is in prison for drug related convictions stemming out of Brule and Minnehaha counties. Call Police if you see her.

Lottery Ticket Thieves

Police are looking for 2 men who tried to get money from stolen lottery tickets.
According to officials, the suspects robbed a convenience store in Bridgewater, but tried to redeem the tickets at 2 Sioux Falls convenience stores.
The first suspect is described as a white male in his early 20's with short brown hair.
The second man was wearing a yellow baseball cap and is believed to be in his 40's.
Call Crimestoppers at 367-7007 with info