Festival starts tomorrow

This year's Lifelight Festival kicks off Friday at the permanent location near Worthing. Organizers are expecting huge crowds, with the ministry leadership predicting another record-breaking year. Reliant K headlines the opening night of the Lifeline Festival.

SFPD Drtug Bust

A Sioux Falls man faces drug charges after police found 3-pounds of pot, and $40-grand in cash as well as a shotgun and bulletproof vest at an apartment on E. 28th ST. last night. KDLT report the bust was made near a daycare center and elementary school, and they're trying to decide if the 27-year olds arrest was inside the school Drug Free Zone.

Cheyenee River Sioux Tribe Want Gaming

The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe wants in on gaming. Tribal leaders want to add slots in a planned expansion of the Cheyenne River Motel in Eagle Butte. They also want to build a full fledged casino on trust land near Pierre or Fort Pierre. The Native Times reports a casino requires a compact with the state, and there as one in the 90's for a planned casino at the eastern edge of the reservation, but it was never built, and there are questions as to whether that agreement's still valid.

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is mobilizing an army of volunteers to help clean up the mess left by flooding in the Dakota Dunes area. Capt. Von Vandiver with the Siouxland Salvation Army said the organization will serve as the hub of a system to connect residents and homeowners with volunteers and other resources. Vandiver hopes volunteers can begin the cleanup process once the corps brings down river releases around Labor Day weekend.

Thune In Town

Senator John Thune will be in Pierre on Wednesday, August 31, 2011, to participate in an aviation rally and to present a Korean Service Medal. The event takes place at 10:30 AM at Mustang Aviation

Hunting season could be hurt

State Game, Fish and Parks officials two straight hard winters are the reason for an estimated 50 percent drop in the state's pheasant count. That decline could mean fewer hunters for the upcoming season, which starts October 15th.

Daycare provider wants license restored

A Sioux Falls daycare provider is appealing to get her license back. Connie Edwards had her license revoked after an investigation was completed into the June death of a baby she was caring for. Her hearing is scheduled for a week from next Tuesday, September 13. Edwards has had several violations for having too many children in her care at one time.

SF Main Sewer Line Work Done

Replacing the central main sewer line in Sioux Falls has been completed, and done ahead of schedule. City Public Works Director Mark Cotter says the new line's got double the capacity of the old pipe. The old pipe burst last August. With work on the central main sewer line finished, other sewer construction projects are still in this year's line-up.

Oahe Dam Gate

The Army Corps of Engineers says a missing chain's what caused a gate to stick open on one of the six emergency outlet tunnels underneath the Oahe Dam on the Missouri River in South Dakota. Officials found the problem yesterday. KDLT reports officials think the chain was probably washed away by the heavy water releases this summer.

EHLP Extends Deadline

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and NeighborWorks® America have reopened the application process for the Emergency Homeowners’ Loan Program (EHLP) in 27 states, including South Dakota, through September 15th. EHLP helps homeowners who've lost income through involuntary unemployment or underemployment. Eligible homeowners can qualify for an interest-free loan, which pays a portion of their monthly mortgage for up to two years, or up to $50,000, whichever comes first.

Food Drive

Residents of five states can visit South Dakota's Crazy Horse Memorial for just three cans of food per person during the extended Labor Day weekend. It's part of an annual benefit for the Feeding South Dakota food bank. Last year's four-day open house raised nearly 2½ tons of food.

HELP! Line Manned 24 7

National Suicide Prevention Week for 2011 will take place September 4 through September 10. In Sioux Falls, the HELP!Line Center is preparing to hold a series of events to raise awareness and prevent suicide.
The HELP!Line Center answers the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number, 1-800-273-TALK (8255). It is the only South Dakota suicide prevention service accredited by th­­e American Association of Suicidology, with trained staff answering calls from across the state 24 hours every day.

HUD Extension Announced

he U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and NeighborWorks® America today reopened the application process for the Emergency Homeowners’ Loan Program (EHLP) in 27 states and Puerto Rico to give homeowners at risk of foreclosure more time to apply for the program. While the original application deadline was July 27, HUD estimates that resources will be available to reach more struggling homeowners and will accept applications submitted through September 15, 2011.

Beef Cattle Show at Fair

ound 20 of South Dakota’s legislators will try their hand at showing beef cattle at this year’s South Dakota State Fair.
The 3nd annual Legislative Showmanship Competition – a friendly showmanship competition among state legislators - pairs legislators with a youth livestock exhibitor from their district. The youth partner “fits” the animal, prepares it for competition and offers the legislator a crash course in livestock showmanship. The legislator then shows the animal in the show ring.

Schools Open Pay Attention Behind the Wheel

Police are busy writing tickets on drivers who haven't adjusted to schools being open again. 700-citations were issued in school zones last week. Over 300-tickets were written for speeding in a school zone. Officers are continuing the stepped up enforcement this week. Police are hoping that number comes down as the school year continues.

Sioux Falls Daycare Provider's License Revoked

A Sioux Falls day care provider's lost her license permanently, after the death of an infant this summer. Connie Edwards was also fined earlier this year for having too many children in her care. She was given two additional citations and a fine for not complying with the city's ordinance again in June. City officials tell KELO there's a hearing September 13th for Edwards to appeal the city decision.

Spiritual Walk of Healing

A Rapid City church located at the corner where two police officers and their assailant were shot and killed earlier this month is hosting a walk in an effort to raise money to build a memorial to the fallen victims. New Beginnings Church is sponsoring the Spiritual Walk of Healing at 5 this evening. The walk starts at Memorial Park and concludes at the church.

Department of Veterans Affairs Benefit

he Department of Veterans Affairs will be holding their annual Veterans Benefits School for County and Tribal Veterans Service Officers. The school will be held at the Ramkota Hotel. The school will conclude at noon on Wednesday, August 31. For more information, contact Audry Ricketts, 605-773-8242.

Fairs

County, regional, and state fairs have a rich and lasting history in South Dakota, with most finding their origins dating back to the early 20th Century or earlier. Multiple generations have enjoyed the celebrations, food, music, and festivities that accompany fairs throughout our state each summer.

Drunk Driver Arrested

A notorious drunken driver in South Dakota has been arrested again for DUI. Marguerite Engle of Sturgis pleaded guilty in June 2010 to driving with a blood-alcohol level nearly nine times the legal limit - which state officials have said is likely a record for South Dakota. Engle was arrested late last month in Rapid City after she allegedly got into a truck parked in front of a store, crashed into a pole and then walked away.

Rodeo

The McCrossan Boys Ranch will host their annual Xtreme Event Challenge Rodeo in Sioux Falls tomorrow. Gates open at 4:00 and the rodeo show begins at 5:30.

SD Camping Areas Reopening

Several South Dakota camping areas are reopening as the flooded Missouri River continues to recede. State Park Director Doug Hofer says select campsites at Farm Island Recreation Area near Pierre and Platte Creek Recreation Area near Platte were available for camping starting Wednesday.

Cancer Screening at Fair.

U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) announced today that the Cancer Awareness and Prevention Booth and a Mammogram Van will be available at the South Dakota State Fair in Huron, which runs from September 1st to September 5th, 2011. The Mammogram Van will offer free mammograms to women with appointments on Friday, September 2nd from 10 am — 2 pm CT. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing will be offered every day for the duration of the State Fair.

Fasir Act

Musicians from every genre and for every age will entertain at the State Fair – everything from old favorites to up-and-coming artists. Throw in a magician, a champion whip cracker and previous contestants from “American Idol” and “Survivor,” and there is something for everyone. Among the entertainment at this year’s South Dakota State Fair:
Love and Theft, an up-and-coming country music duo,

Frist supports reform plan

Former U.S. Senator Bill Frist says he believe the nation's health care reform law will stand. South Dakota is one of several states challenging the requirement that citizens buy insurance by 2014. Frist, a former heart surgeon, says even if that part of the law is declared unconstitutional, the overall plan will still survive.

Watertown Armory

The South Dakota National Guard has broken ground on a $25 million armory in Watertown. The Guard says the 80,000-square-foot Watertown Readiness Center is being built on 30 acres of land about a mile from its current 53-year-old armory, which will be shuttered.

Oahe Dam Problem

The Army Corps of Engineers plans to further reduce water releases from Oahe Dam on Monday so it can fix what officials call an unusual problem. A gate on 1 of 6 emergency outlet tunnels underneath the dam has become stuck halfway closed. Officials say something became lodged underneath the gate's roller. They say it doesn't affect the stability of the dam.

Flood Damage to Causeway

Officials have found extensive Missouri River flood damage to a causeway that's been a popular recreation spot in the Pierre area. Much of the causeway has been washed away by this summer's flooding. officials have not yet discussed plans for repairs. How much they will cost and who will pay also has not been determined.

FEMA Flood Aid

People and businesses hurt by flooding in four South Dakota counties are now eligible for disaster aid. FEMA initially denied the request for individual aid in 11 South Dakota counties. The state appealed, and FEMA has now approved aid for people and businesses in Charles Mix, Hughes, Stanley and Union counties.

Highway Funding

Gov. Dennis Daugaard has joined seven other Midwestern and Western Governors in urging federal approval by Sept. 30 of a multi-year funding measure for highways and transit projects. Meeting the transportation needs of rural states with thousands of miles of highways but few people is a challenge, the governors said in a letter to President Obama and congressional leaders.

Flags Ordered Half Staff

Gov. Dennis Daugaard asks that all flags in the state be flown at half-staff on Thursday, Aug. 25, 2011, from 8 a.m. until sunset, in honor of National Guard Specialist Dennis G. Jensen of Sioux Falls. Jensen, formerly of Vermillion, died in a noncombat accident Aug. 16 in Afghanistan while working on a bridge project.

IAD Funds

Gov. Dennis Daugaard and the Federal Emergency Management Agency announced today that Individual Assistance disaster funds have been approved for residents and businesses in Union, Hughes, Stanley, and Charles Mix counties for damages caused by flooding March 11 through July 22, 2011.

Free workshop offered to small businesses

Small business owners can get important information on state taxes, labor laws, unemployment insurance and some free business consulting services next month. It's a free workshop scheduled in Mitchell September 7. The one-day workshop will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Community Room of the Avera Queen of Peace Hospital.

Barth Running

Minnehaha County Commissioner Jeff Barth is seeking the Democratic nomination to run for South Dakota's lone seat in the U.S. House. He becomes the first Democrat to formally enter the race against Republican Rep. Kristi Noem in 2012.

Woman Pleas to Manslaughter

A South Dakota woman has pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter in the stabbing death of a Mobridge man early this year. As part of a plea deal, prosecutors have dropped a murder charge against 43-year-old Donise Red Water. 41-year-old Vincent Village Center was found dead in his apartment in late January. The stabbing happened during an alcohol-fueled altercation between the two.

Letcher Man Pleads Guilty

A man accused of harboring another South Dakota man who eventually was sentenced to nearly six years in federal prison for tax fraud and other financial crimes has pleaded guilty. 64-year-old Theodore Nelson of Letcher admitted harboring Thomas Kelley of Salem, who was convicted of 22 federal crimes then failed to appear at his sentencing last August, prompting a four-month, multistate search by authorities.

Kelly is swing Vote

Minnehaha County Commissioner Dick Kelly is the swing vote on a proposal to approve a conditional-use permit for a controversial vehicle storage and auction facility one mile east of Crooks near Interstate 29. That vote takes Place today.
Kelly said he is inclined to support the proposal. If he doesn't, the commission could find itself deadlocked 2-2.

South Dakota Officer Candidate School Commissioning Ceremony

The South Dakota Officer Candidate School Commissioning Ceremony will be held at the Sturgis Community Center. Fifteen candidates successfully completed the Officer Candidate School instruction. They will be honored along with their families and be commissioned as second lieutenants in the South Dakota Army National Guard. Brig. Gen. Jeff Marlette, the assistant adjutant general, will be the keynote speaker. The public is encouraged to attend. For more information, contact Maj. Orson Ward at (605) 737-6455.

Water Releases

As water releases from Missouri River dams begin to drop, Gov. Dennis Daugaard is reminding residents to respect the still-record flows and stay away from levees protecting communities. "This is not the time to become complacent," Gov. Daugaard said. "We’ve come this far by putting safety first. As the releases begin to decline, the river level will gradually fall. However, the river will remain above its banks through the month of August and perhaps longer.”

Ex SDN Staffer Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud

SDN Communications former chief accountant plead guilty today to mail fraud. KDLT reports 46-year old Bradley Whitsell of Sioux Falls has agreed to repay the almost $00,000 he stole as well as the $84,000 cost of an audit that uncovered the theft. Whitsell faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine when he's sentenced in November.

Egan's FD is No More

When there's a fire in Egan, Flandreau's Volunteer Fire Department will be responding. Egan's department dissolved last month when only four volunteers were willing to make a commitment to serve. KDLT reports it was tough getting local residents of the small community to step up, and they also say there was the cost of keeping up the department's equipment. An EMT's in town to help with local emergencies, and two Egan residents are applying to join Flandreau's Department.

Daugaard's Pine Beetle Plan

Governor Daugaard's unveiled a new plan to control the pine beetle, and stop it from destroying the Black Hills Forest. KELO reports the plan includes raising awareness of the problem and coordinating the work of different agencies. About 400,000 acres, or about 30% of the Black Hills National Forest is infested. Daugaard says the initiative will cost an additional $1 million each year for the next three years.

Sales Tax Exemptions Hearings

The South Dakota legislature's Sales Tax Review Committee's holding pubic hearings in Pierre tomorrow and Wednesday. According to KDLT, they want to know what you think of the idea of ending tax exempotions for things likeadvertising services, agricultural fertilizer sales and the sale of farm machinery parts or repair work.

Committee Hearings on Sales Tax Exemptions

The South Dakota legislature's Sales Tax Review Committee's holding pubic hearings in Pierre tomorrow and Wednesday. According to KDLT, they want to know what you think of the idea of ending tax exempotions for things likeadvertising services, agricultural fertilizer sales and the sale of farm machinery parts or repair work.

Fire Service

When there's a fire in Egan, people will no longer have a fire department in their town to call for help.
The department dissolved last month when only four vounteers could commit to the department.
The Flandreau Volunteer Fire Department will now be be called to the scene if a fire sparks in Egan. But Steinhauer said he does not think the extra distance will make a difference.

Floodwaters recede revealing Damages

As releases from Gavin’s Point Dam have been decreasing for a few days, floodwaters in Yankton have dropped as much as two feet, revealing a lot of damage. There are a couple big logs on the sandbags that came down and hit the levee. But it wasn’t just the high water knocking over trees. Beavers were also a problem.

Classes Resume

Almost all of the 22,000 Sioux Falls School District students returning to class today is worth about $317 less in state funding than was the case a year ago, but most students probably won't notice. That's because for the most part, reductions in spending did not directly target student programs, and an increased property tax freeze opt-out prevented additional cuts.

School Zone Safety Enforcement

The Sioux Falls Police are asking for your help in making sure kids are safe in school zones. Sioux Falls Police, Minnehaha and Lincoln COunty Sheriff’s Office, and South Dakota Highway Patrol will be taking part in a concentrated effort to make school zones safe for our children. Officers, deputies, and troopers will be conducting high-visibility patrol and enforcement at schools next week that include the Sioux Falls, Harrisburg, and Brandon School Districts.

Corps of Engineers Booed at Congressional Hearing

South Dakota residents, hurt by Missouri River flooding booed at a congressional hearing today in Pierre, when the Army Corp of Engineers blamed heavy rains upstream for the flooding. Those with homes and businesses damaged by water, joined local elected officials in blasted the way the Corps managed the flooding; and according to KDLT say more water from dams on the river should have been released earlier in the year to deal with the spring runoff.

Corps Booed at Pierre Hearing

South Dakota residents, hurt by Missouri River flooding booed at a congressional hearing today in Pierre, when the Army Corp of Engineers blamed heavy rains upstream for the flooding. Those with homes and businesses damaged by water, joined local elected officials in blasted the way the Corps managed the flooding; and according to KDLT say more water from dams on the river should have been released earlier in the year to deal with the spring runoff.

Sioux Falls Robbery

Police are looking a man who robbed a Sioux Falls business at gunpoint last night. A man with a black semi automatic weapon demanded money at Kota Korner on 900 North Sycamore. He fled on foot with an undetermined amount of cash. The suspect was described as a white male, five foot 10 inches tall, with light brown hair, blue eyes in his late teens to early twenties.

Early Morning Fire in Burke

An early morning fire has destroyed two Main Street businesses in the town of Burke. Police say the fire call at Vosker's Restaurant came in about 3:30 this morning. The restaurant and the Southern Dakota Insurance building were destroyed. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Breakfast Competition

As Congresswoman Noem hosted Speaker John Boehner for an exclusive, invite-only $1000 per plate fundraiser at the Minnehaha Country Club, Sioux Falls area residents joined the South Dakota Democratic Party for a free, open to the public, pancake breakfast across the street at Sherman Park in Sioux Falls.

Cancer Awareness and Prevention Booth and a Mammogram Van will be available at the South Dakota State Fair

U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) announced that the Cancer Awareness and Prevention Booth and a Mammogram Van will be available at the South Dakota State Fair in Huron, which runs from September 1st to September 5th, 2011. The Mammogram Van will offer free mammograms to women with appointments on Friday, September 2nd from 10 am — 2 pm CT. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing will be offered every day for the duration of the State Fair.

U.S. Senator Tim Johnson applauded the work being done to promote rural economic development

U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) applauded the work being done to promote rural economic development during a speech at the grand opening of a conference and training center at the Rural Learning Center. Johnson, a long-time supporter of the Rural Learning Center, secured hundreds of thousands of dollars in federal earmarks to help get the project off the ground.

South Dakota ranked high

It's a great place to start a business. For an eighth straight year South Dakota is ranked among the top-10 states in the nation for businesses. It was seventh this time. The Pollina Corporation study ranks states based on 30 areas, including taxes and human resources.

Reservoirs Out of Flood Control Zone

The Army Corps of Engineers says that all Missouri River reservoirs are now out of the "flood control" zone, with the Fort Randall reservoir in South Dakota being the last to drop below that level. The zone is the top 6 percent of storage available in the reservoir system. It holds enough water to cover 4.7 million acres 1 foot deep. Jody Farhat with the corps says having the reservoirs out of that zone is a milestone in this summer's flood fight.

Man Arrested after Crash

Sioux Falls Police are investigating a crash that happened this morning just before 2. Police say they were pursuing a vehicle eastbound on 26th Street, before the driver lost control and hit a tree on the corner of 26th St. and Melanie Ave. Police say the driver got out of the car and ran before being arrested about 8 blocks from the crash site. His name hasn't been released.

Bench Appointment

Gov. Dennis Daugaard announced that he will appoint Lori S. Wilbur to the South Dakota Supreme Court. Wilbur will succeed Justice Judith Meierhenry, who retired from the court in June. Wilbur is the presiding judge of the Sixth Judicial Circuit.
“Lori Wilbur will be a phenomenal Supreme Court Justice,” Gov. Daugaard said. “She is well-respected for intellect, her calm demeanor, and her quiet commitment to a fair and open judiciary. Every person I consulted spoke in the very highest terms about Judge Wilbur.”

SD on a Top 10 List

For the eighth year in a row, Pollina Corporate Real Estate has placed South Dakota on its list of top 10 pro-business states. In 2011, South Dakota is listed as the seventh best state in the nation for business. South Dakota was in eighth place last year.
The Pollina Corporate Top 10 Pro-Business States study evaluates and ranks states based on more than 30 factors, including taxes, human resources, right-to-work legislation, and other factors..

Blood Drive

The Risen Savior Catholic Church is holding a blood drive to benefit the local blood supply this Sunday from 8:30 to 12:30. Donors must be at least 17 , weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good general health. Donations only take 20 to 30 minutes.

Dunes family may head home soon

They've been gone since May. Now, we're hearing Dakota Dunes residents may be able to return to their homes as soon as next month. They have been allowed back in to assess the damage, but security checkpoints have stayed in place. The head of the Dakota Dunes Community Improvement District says the Missouri River will have receded enough by late September for people to return home.

SD Guardsman Killed in Afghanistan

Another South Dakota National Guard soldier's been killed in Afghanistan. He's 21-year old Specialist Dennis Jensen, killed in a construction accident on a bridge in Helmand Province. Jensen was a combat engineer with the 211th Engineer Company. Funeral arrangements are pending.

Minnehaha Deputies Challenge County Commissioners

Minnehaha County and its' deputies will be battling over money before the State Labor Department. The deputies union's appealing the County Commissioners decision to reject their grievance over a 5% pay cut in the 2012 budget. The Commission proposed the base pay cut for all county employees excluding elected officials such as the sheriff and state's attorney. Deputies say the cut would violate their contract.

Jails with Structural Issues

The jails in Sioux Falls and Yankton have issues. Mold's been found in a laundry room and storage area at the Minnehaha County work release center. KELO reports a cleanup's due to start Monday. Yankton County commissioners are worried about a cracked ceiling and falling plaster in the county jail. The facility's only 3 years old, and they're working with the general contractor to fix the problem.

Dakota Dunes

People who evacuated from a South Dakota city in May should be able to return to their homes as early as next month. Many homeowners in Dakota Dunes have returned to assess the damage from Missouri River flooding, but the security checkpoints have remained in place. Jeff Dooley, manager of the Dakota Dunes Community Improvement District
said that the river will likely have receded enough by late September.

Pagent Looking for Contestants

The Little Miss South Dakota International Pageant is looking for contestants. Girls ages 4 to 12 are eligible to compete in the pageant that will be held in conjunction with the Mrs. South Dakota International Pageant at 7 p.m. Oct. 2 at the Orpheum Theater in Sioux Falls. For information, call pageant director Jessie Brower at 360-1117 or email mrssouthdakota @gmail.com.

Police Protest Wage Cus

Minnehaha County deputies will ask a judge to reverse a proposed 5 percent cut in their paychecks and that could lead to higher taxes for property owners. The wage cut, included in the 2012 budget crafted by commissioners earlier this summer, violates a union contract, members of the Minnehaha County Deputies Association say.

Nepotism

Superintendent Pam Homan is facing new questions about whether she's following district policy after her daughter was hired to work at Southeast Technical Institute. There are policies that prevent Homan's family members from working for the district. According to the Nepotism policy, no one can be hired that would be supervised by an immediate family member.

Teens Almost Drown

Two boys had to be hospitalized after they both went under water in a pool at an apartment complex on the city's east side. Two teens who were playing basketball near the pool at the time pulled the juveniles out of the pool and performed CPR before emergency personnel arrived.

New Effington Flooding

New Effington officials were forced to evacuate people from a low-lying area in the north part of town as they battle flooding.
Water is threatening two fourplexes and at least one more home. The city is running three pumps but they weren't enough to keep the water from rising. Residents had been bracing for flooding.

25 Years For Murderer

A 32-year-old man from Wagner is sentenced to 25 years after killing Rafael Morales last August and then burning his body. Curtis Weddell was sentenced for manslaughter, arson and grand theft Monday for a crime that prosecutors say never should have happened.

Flags Ordered to Half Staff

Governor Dennis Daugaard requests that all flags in South Dakota be flown at half-staff today from 8 a.m. to sunset in honor of state forest firefighter Trampus Haskvitz, who died while fighting a fire in the southern Black Hills. Funeral services for Haskvitz have been set for Tuesday in Hot Springs. Haskvitz, 23, died while fighting the Coal Canyon Fire just north of Edgemont on Thursday afternoon.

NASBO

Jason Dilges, chief financial officer for South Dakota state government, has been named president-elect of the National Association of State Budget Officers and will serve in that post for a year, when he will become president of NASBO.
The National Association of State Budget Officers is the professional membership organization for state finance officers.

Fire Fighting

The lightning-ignited Coal Canyon Fire in the southern Black Hills had grown Sunday to 3,000 acres and was 20 percent contained, according to the Rocky Mountain Area Incident Management Team. The fire has been burning in steep, rugged terrain south of Pilger Mountain Road, nine miles north of Edgemont.

Tuition Increase

Six-point-nine percent, or roughly $500 more if a student takes 32 credit hours a year, thats how much a student will be expected to pay this year at South Dakota State University. While the overall bump in tuition and fees for students attending one of the state's six public universities does amount to 6.9 percent, the increase in the tuition portion actually is 14.5 percent - from $99.80 a credit hour to $114.30.

SD Man Arrested for Kidnapping

A South Dakota man accused of kidnapping his 92-year-old mother from an assisted living home in Great Falls has been arrested in California. 70-year-old James Wainscoat and the woman's 18-year-old granddaughter, Ishayah Wainscoat, were arrested in Lake Tahoe on Wednesday as they were trying to secure legal guardianship of the woman. The woman, who police say has Alzheimer's disease, was taken by Adult Protective Services in California and has since been turned over to a nearby relative.

Firefighter Killed, Two Others Injured

Officials say a 23-year-old firefighter has been killed and two others injured fighting a blaze on U.S. Forest Service land nine miles north of Edgemont. The governor's office says Trampus Haskvitz of Hot Springs died from injuries suffered when the Type 6 fire engine he was working on was burned over by the Coal Canyon fire. Two other firefighters from Hot Springs, Austin Whitney and Kevin Fees, were injured and flown to Rapid City Regional Hospital.

Severe Weather

Strong winds and heavy rain left behind a lot of damage. Small hail, scattered power outages and downed trees in Chamberlain hit the area and winds were clocked at over 60 miles an hour. In Wessington wind knocked down trees and we have reports of power being out in Freeman, Mitchell, and Huron as well. Semis were reportedly blown over on I- 90 near Draper in western South Dakota.

4-H Changes

Changes in the economy have prompted the 4-H organization to eliminate several county extension services involved with 4-H. Agronomy Educator Larry Wagner says "The extension service in South Dakota is going through a major change,” and this year's major changes include the elimination of a number of county extension offices.

Lightening Probably Caused Ffire

Lightening is being blamed for a F garage fire. Just after 9:00 last night firefighters responded to a home on South Willow Avenue. The homeowners say they heard a loud boom and then noticed smoke. Firefighters were able to get the flames contained and under control.

Volunteer HELP!Line Needs Bags

Sara Carothers, Volunteer HELP!Line Director wants your bags! She says she needs a couple of thousand of the bags for plarn and weaving sleeping mats for clients of the Good Shepherd Center. The mats are incredibly soft and help blankets stay dry if someone sleeps on the ground.

Open government for SD

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley says residents will have access to open meeting agendas online starting next Monday. Jackley says this is part of the move toward more open-ness in South Dakota government, keeping is accessible to the public. The information will be on the Attorney General's website at atg-dot-sd-dot-gov.

Univ. Budget Request

The state Board of Regents is putting together a budget request for South Dakota's university system. Following a meeting today at Black Hills State University in Spearfish, the board's budget request will go to Governor Daugaard, who will consider it when he proposes his state budget to the Legislature in December.

South Dakota keeping government open

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley says residents will have access to open meeting agendas online starting next Monday. Jackley says this is part of the move toward more open-ness in South Dakota government, keeping is accessible to the public. The information will be on the Attorney General's website at atg-dot-sd-dot-gov.

First Sturgis rally fatality recorded

A Missouri man is the first fatality connected to the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Peter Diangi lost control of his bike near Deadwood Tuesday, was thrown off and killed. Diangi wasn't wearing a helmet. Last year, 4 bikers died during the rally.

South Dakota School Superintendent DUI Again

It's another charge of drunk driving for a South Dakota school superintendent. Lance Witte of Wessington Springs was pulled over Friday on Interstate 90 near the Hanson-McCook county line. He was taken to the hospital for a blood test. The arrest came just three days after Witte pleaded guilty to driving with a revoked license, a charge that stemmed from his DUI conviction last year.

Frontier Airlines Business Good

Frontier Airlines reports business is good since the airline came to Souix Falls a month ago. Dan Letellier the Sioux Falls Airport director said “Over 41,000 people departed the airport in the month of July which was 23% better than last July. And an all time record for any month.”

Yankton Schools Save Activities

An $85,000 budget gap earlier this year stood in the way of after school sports and activities at Yankton Middle School. Yankton and the surrounding community have come together to save the school events. In just six weeks, the school managed to raise the 85 thousand, just in time to prevent the cancellation of after school sports and activities.

Business Owner Wants Slower Speeds

If a local has his way, drives will be slowing down on West Holly Boulevard. Todd Winkel, owner of Heartland Funeral Home, recently asked the Brandon City Council whether more safety precautions can be made on the 45-mph stretch in front of his business.

Flood Support Group

A flood support group is meeting tonight for Dakota Dunes residents. It's from 7:00 to 8:00 at the North Sioux City Fire Hall. There is no cost and those who plan to attend do not need to RSVP. Siouxland Mental Health will moderate the meeting.

No Apparent Damage

The mayors of Pierre and Fort Pierre say an earthquake in the area did no apparent damage to levees that have been holding back the swollen Missouri River. Pierre Mayor Laurie Gill and Fort Pierre Mayor Sam Tidball say that staff in both of the neighboring cities checked the levees and other flood protection infrastructure after Tuesday's 3.4-magnitude quake.

I-229 Lawbreaker Crackdown

Be prepared to be pulled over if yu are breaking the law on I-229. An increased number of complaints along the southern portion of I-229 told police that this would be the perfect time. Nearly a dozen officers from the Sioux Falls Police, the Minnehaha County Sheriff's and State Highway Patrol departments were positioned at several spots along the interstate stopping anyone who is violating the law.

Liquor License Check

Fifteen businesses were checked last night for liquor law compliance. One business failed. The business which failed is The Gas Stop, 4600 W. 41st St., Sioux Falls, SD.
Businesses making sales to underage persons may face fines, suspensions or loss of their liquor or malt licenses.

National Dairy Policy and Immigration Reform

Dairy producers along the I-29 corridor are invited to a Forum on National Dairy Policy and Immigration Reform to learn more about dairy pricing policy proposals and immigration issues that may impact their operations. The forum will be held from 10 am to 2 pm on Tuesday, August 30, at the Ramkota Inn in Sioux Falls. The free forum will include lunch and is hosted by members of the I-29 Dairy Consortium. Reservations are requested by August 25 to sddairyproducers@gmail.com or 605-692-1775.

Flags Ordered Half Staff

Gov. Dennis Daugaard asks that all flags in the state be flown at half-staff on Thursday, Aug. 11, 2011, from 8 a.m. until sunset, in honor of Rapid City Police Officer Nick Armstrong. Armstrong died on Sunday, Aug. 7, after being critically injured Aug. 2 in the line of duty. Another officer, James McCandless, died shortly after being rushed to the hospital. A third officer, Tim Doyle, was injured.

Officer Armstrong Services

The funeral for a slain Rapid City police officer is scheduled for Thursday. 27-year-old Nick Armstrong died Sunday at a Rapid City hospital, five days after he and two other officers were shot while performing a routine stop. Officer Ryan McCandless died in the shooting. Officer Tim Doyle is recovering. A public viewing is scheduled Thursday at 10 a.m. at the Barnett Arena in the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, followed by the funeral at 11.

Meth Lab Found Near School

KELO LAND reports that Sioux Falls police were on the scene of a suspected meth lab Monday night. Narcotics officers in hazmat gear were seen removing chemicals from a home on North Wayland right across the street from Laura B. Anderson Elementary school, in the northern eastern part of town. Police say no one has been arrested in the case yet.

Crash Involving Motorcycla

A motorcyclist survived a crash without serious injuries Monday morning at the intersection of Main Street and Highway 75 in Luverne. According to the Rock County Sheriff's Department, the motorcylist was Ed Van Middendorp, 64, Garretson, S.D., on a 1983 Honda Shadow. Also involved in the crash was 55-year-old Jane Ford, Sioux Falls, driving a 2006 Chevy Impala.

Another RC Offficer Succumbs to Injuries

Another Rapid City Police Officer involved in last week's shoot out has died from his injuries. 27-year-old Officer Nick Armstrong died Sunday. Armstrong was a two-year veteran of the Rapid City P.D. He also served on the city's street crimes unit with fellow Officer James Ryan McCandless, whose funeral was Sunday.

9/11 Firefighter to Speak

A retired New York City firefighter who is a survivor of the 9/11 terrorist attacks will speak at a Patriot Flag event in Pierre on Saturday. Joe Torrillo arrived at the World Trade Center just minutes before the second plane struck the south tower. While evacuating people from the south tower, he was buried under the debris of the first collapse. He now travels the country to speak of his experience.

2nd Officer Dies

A second Rapid City officer has died from injuuries he recieved after being shot Aug. 2nd. Officer Armstrong was a two-year veteran of the RCPD, and was born and raised in Rapid City. Nick served as a police officer with the Spearfish Police Department for two years, before joining the RCPD in July 2009.

McCandless' Last Call

Thousands turned out for the last call for Officer Ryan McCandless who was shot nad killed last week in a standoff situation. The McCandless family and his fiance Kristi, were presented an eagle's feather, a token of respect for all Ryan has done for the community. Also presented, the officers badge, his awards, and flags.

State High Court Takes on Sioux Falls Video Lottery Ordinance

The South Dakota Supreme Court's set to hear arguments on the 24th on a Sioux Falls zoning ordinance that would put most of the city off-limits to new video lottery casinos. KELO reports a circuit judge struck down the ordinance last year, saying the state constitution puts video lottery regulation in the hands of the state. The city appealed, saying the city's only regulating where the machines can go, arguing it's about zoning not gambling regulation.

Sioux Empire Fair

The 72nd Annual Sioux Empire Fair will be held August 9-14. The Siouxland Heritage Museums will be hosting a number of Pioneer-themed,
hands-on activities at the Sioux Empire Fair Tuesday through Friday. The museum programming will be held in Pioneer Lane near the Fersdahl log cabin. The Siouxland Heritage Museums pioneer activities are Tuesday 12-4 p.m., and Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

I-29 Dairy Producers Forum

Dairy producers along the I-29 corridor are invited to a Forum on National Dairy Policy and Immigration Reform to learn more about dairy pricing policy proposals and immigration issues that may impact their operations. The forum's Tuesday August 30th from 10-a.m. to 2p.m. at the Ramkota Inn in Sioux Falls . The free forum will include lunch and is hosted by members of the I-29 Dairy Consortium. Reservations are requested by August 25 to sddairyproducers@gmail.com or 605-692-1775.

Dairy Producers Forum August 30th

Dairy producers along the I-29 corridor are invited to a Forum on National Dairy Policy and Immigration Reform to learn more about dairy pricing policy proposals and immigration issues that may impact their operations. The forum's Tuesday August 30th from 10-a.m. to 2p.m. at the Ramkota Inn in Sioux Falls . The free forum will include lunch and is hosted by members of the I-29 Dairy Consortium. Reservations are requested by August 25 to sddairyproducers@gmail.com or 605-692-1775.

Funeral for Officer

The funeral for a Rapid City police officer shot and killed in the line of duty will be Sunday. The ceremony for 28-year-old James McCandless is 2 p.m. in the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center's Barnett Arena. On Saturday afternoon there will be a public procession from Kirk Funeral Home to the Civic Center, along with a public viewing at Barnett Arena. McCandless was one of three officers shot while performing what authorities have described as a routine stop on Tuesday.

Arson is Cause of Vermillion Blaze

Authorities say a fire that devastated a downtown Vermillion restaurant was a case of arson. Police are offering a $500 reward for information leading to a conviction in the early morning fire July 16 at Recuerdo's Mexican restaurant. The blaze also caused smoke damage to a neighboring business.

Man had Prior Run-ins with Lawq Enforcement

Authorities say the 22-year-old suspect, identified as Daniel Tiger, in Tuesday's shooting of three Rapid City police officers had spent more than two years in jail and prison. Police say Tiger pulled a handgun and fired on officers James Ryan McCandless, Nick Armstrong and Tim Doyle. They had received complaints about the group and determined a minor alcohol violation had been committed.

Two Busted Trying to Rob Cubby's

Sioux Falls police have arrested a second suspect in the attempted robbery at Cubby's convenience store. Two officers staking out a Cubby's early this morning spotted 2 people head into the store. As the officers drove into the lot, the suspects were demanding money from the clerk 19-year old Corbin Stead was arrested trying to run, and a 17-year old was arrested later. Police tell KELO they think the 2 may be behind =most of the Cubby's robbery's in the past month.

Another Sam's Club for Sioux Falls

Another big retailer's set to call Dawley Farm Village home. KELO says the city's approved a conditional use permit for Sam';s Club to build a second store in Sioux Falls. Dawley Farms is on the east side of the city, and is expected to help ease some of the traffic jams in west Sioux Falls.

Story Blogged at 08-04-11 16:50 by djennings

Another Sam's Club for SIoux Falls

Another big retailer's set to call Dawley Farm Village home. KELO says the city's approved a conditional use permit for Sam';s Club to build a second store in Sioux Falls. Dawley Farms is on the east side of the city, and is expected to d=help ease some of the traffic jams in west Sioux Falls.

Growth Hitting Brandon Valley Schools

School districts are getting in enrollment numbers, and districts around Sioux Falls are seeing the fastest growth. Brandon Valley's expecting around 100 new students next year, and that could move them up the list to the third largest ion the state. KELO reports right now, they're 5th, behind Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen and Watertown. Brandon Valley's been able to absorb the new students without adding new buildings so far.

Candelight Vigil for Officers

Hundreds of people turned out in Rapid City for a candlelight vigil after three police officers were shot, and one of them killed. The crowd gathered Wednesday night at a church near the scene of the Tuesday afternoon shooting that killed 28-year-old Officer James Ryan McCandless and injured 27-year-old Officer Nick Armstrong and 39-year-old Officer Tim Doyle.

Tea Woman Indicted

A federal judge says a South Dakota woman must serve two years of probation and pay back more than $11,000 in an embezzlement case. 53-year-old Terri Dunkelberger, of Tea, was indicted for embezzlement and theft of labor union assets. She pleaded guilty in April. Authorities say Dunkelberger handled money for a labor union representing Sioux Falls area transit employees

Executive Casino Robbed

The Executive Casino in Sioux Falls was robbed this morning just after 1 a.m. Police say the suspect is a white man, in his mid 40's, 5'5" tall, 150 to 160 pounds. He has short light brown hair and a mustache that came down below his lower lip. The suspect had a large tattoo on his left forearm and a smaller quarter size tattoo on his right forearm. The suspect came into the store and played video lottery for about 30 minutes before pulling out a pocket knife and demanding money from the till.

Officer Dead, Three Others Wounded in Shootout

A deadly shoot-out between three officers and a suspect ends with one Rapid City police officer and the suspect dead. Police say 22-year-old Daniel Tiger pulled a gun on the officers, at an intersection, shooting and killing officer Ryan McCandless. Twenty-seven-year-old officer Nick Armstrong is listed in critical condition at Rapid City Regional Hospital, and 39-year-old officer Tim Doyle is listed in fair condition according to KDLT.

Pierre Plans Flood Cleanup

Officials in Pierre plan to a significant flood cleanup three days after the Missouri River falls back within its banks. KDLT reports the Army Corps of Engineers plans to lower releases from Oahe Dam upstream to 85,000 cubic feet per second on Aug. 24, putting the bloated river back in its banks. The cleanup will include unplugging storm sewers and removing sump pumps being used to pump rainwater from areas behind dikes.

Rapid City Shooting Suspect ID'd

Rapid City Police have identified the suspect in yesterday's officer shooting as 22-year old Daniel Tiger of Rapid City. He and Rapid City Officer, 28-year old James McCandless died after the exchange of gunfire. The South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and Pennington County Sheriff's Office are continuing to investigate the incident.

Man Gets 6-years for Bank Robbery

A Conrad man's been sentenced to almost 6 years in prison for a bank robbery last September. According to the Argus Leader, 30-year old Sean Cavanaugh robbed the Home Federal Bank in Colman. He was caught by the South Dakota High patrol near the Renner exit on I-29. He was on parole for robbing a bank in Iowa when he was arrested.

Overhaul for Billboard

An iconic billboard in western South Dakota that featured a big green car atop a bright yellow sign has been sent to the shop for an overhaul. A June storm with wind gusts up to 80 mph snapped the 35-foot wood posts and brought the mock wood and fiberglass car to the ground off I- 90. The car was an ad for the Pioneer Auto Show in Murdo. It was built when I-90 opened in 1972.

Officer Shot

A Rapid City police officer is dead and two others are seriously injured following a shooting Tuesday afternoon. An exchange of gunfire happened around 5:30pm when the suspect opened fire at the intersection of E. Anamosa Street and Greenbriar Street in North Rapid. Officer James Ryan McCandless, was killed. The 28-year-old McCandless was a six year veteran of the department. Officer Nick Armstrong, is listed in critical condition. A third officer was shot in the face but is listed in stable condition. His name has not been released yet.

Salmonella Scare

Federals officials say one person has died and 76 others - including three in South Dakota - have been made sick from salmonella poisoning that appears to be linked to eating ground turkey. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Monday that cultures of ground turkey from four retail locations between March 7 and June 27 showed salmonella contamination, though those are not specifically linked to the illnesses.

Ice Cream Giveaway

The Faith Temple Food Giveaway isn't able to use the armory for 2 weeks because of the Sioux Empire Fair taking place at the fairgrounds. So, on Friday Aug. 5 at 9 am... an " Ice Cream Drive-Thru Giveaway." where 20 Tons of Ice Cream will be provided to struggling families. Also on Friday, Aug. 12 at 9 am a "Milk Drive-Thru Giveaway" for struggling families will take place, 1400 Gallons of milk will be given away! Both events take place at Faith Temple's parking lot at 33rd and Western

mammogram Truck

Next Wednesday from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., the Sanford Mammogram Truck will be at Faith Temple's Parking Lot at 2121 W. 33rd St. in Sioux Falls. Free mammograms will be given to those who are struggling in our economy! For more information and an appointment, please call (605) 328-4592!

State Proficiency Test Scores Out

The South Dakota Education Department says 94% of the public school districts made adequate yearly progress under the federal education improvement law, down a percentage point from a year ago. According to KELO, the report says 77% of the 64,000 students tested were proficient in math, up 1% from last year. Proficiency in reading was 75 percent, down 1% from a year ago.

6 Years For South Dakota Bank Robber

A federal judge's sentenced an Iowa man to 78-months in prison for a South Dakota bank robbery in January. Jeremy Bullock walked into First Midwest Bank in Centerville wearing a heavy coat, gloves and sunglasses, and allegedly pointed a handgun at a bank teller and demanded money. KELO reports investigators say he ran from the bank, stole a car, and led police on a high speed chase before he was captured.

Evacuations After Pierre Gas Line Break

There were some street closures and evacuations in Pierre after a gas line break. According to KDLT, homes were evacuated in about a three block area around the break this morning.

National Night Out Tonight

Tonight it National Night Out Night. It was started 28-years ago to raise public awareness of crime and drug prevention efforts, and drum up support for local anti crime programs. Most importantly to let criminals know neighborhoods organize and fight back. Sioux Falls Neighborhood Watch Groups are participating again this year. To find one near you, contact Sioux Falls PD's Community Services Division 367-7230.

SD Crops are OK

The Agriculture Department says warm weather is helping South Dakota crops develop. In its weekly report on crops and weather, the agency says three-quarters of South Dakota's corn crop is in good or excellent condition, while 70 percent of the soybeans are in good to excellent shape.

Event Center May Go To VOters

Sioux Falls residents will be heading to the polls on November 8 to vote on a new events center. That is of course if the Sioux Falls City Council gives their approval first. The city council heard the proposal for a special election Monday night along with a price limit for the facility. If approved by the council next week the election would be held three months from now. Residents would be asked to approve a 115 million dollar events center.

Teen Dies After Slip and Fall

A Rapid City teenager who was injured when he fell from a cliff at Sheridan Lake has died. Pennington County authorities say 17-year-old Nickolus Paschke died late Saturday. He had been hospitalized last Tuesday. He apparently slipped and fell while cliff jumping into the lake with friends. Sheriff's Capt. Marty Graves says officials are continuing to investigate.

Sturgis Rally Season

With August here, state troopers are reminding bikers and motorists to use extra care as they share the road. South Dakota's almost at the heart of the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally season. The state recorded 27 fatal accidents involving motorcycles last year. More than a third of those fatal crashes occurred in West River counties during what is considered "Rally Time" - the roughly two-week period starting the first week of August.

Cash on Hand Robbery Risk

Sioux Falls Police have issued a warning to every business that deals with cash on hand, saying it could make them a target for future robberies. KSFY says this comes after Friday';s armed robbery at Prairie Creek Pet Hospital. Police say the pet hospital robbery was a surprise, noting it's probably one of the last places you'd expect an armed robbery.

Trail of Governors

An effort to honor South Dakota's past governors with a trail of life-sized bronze statues kicked off in Pierre this morning. The Trail of Governors foundation wants to eventually connect the state capitol and the Missouri River, with a minimum of three statues erected each year.

Concrete Walls on I-29

Crews will soon be building concrete walls in the backyards of some people who live along Interstate 29 in Sioux Falls. The project will cost about $3.5 million and is expected to finished by next summer.