SD Crime Report

A shocking statistic: one out of every five crimes in South Dakota is committed by someone under 18. That's according to a report out this week from South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley. It says reports of theft are on the rise while DUI arrests are down by 12%

Fugitive Arrested

A man wanted in four states for stealing from farmers has been arrested in Souix Falls. The Minnehaha County Sheriff's office say 63-year-old Dennis Burton was arrested by members of the Sioux Falls Area Fugitive Task Force near 10th Street and Kiwanis Avenue in Sioux Falls Wednesday after their office received a tip from Nebraska authorities.

ND Sears, KMart OK for now

So far, it appears all Kmart and Sears stores in South Dakota will remain open, according to a newly released list from the ownership group, but that could change. KDLT reports that Sears Holdings released a partial list Thursday of stores that will close after disappointing holiday sales. Tuesday the company announced plans to close between 100 and 120 Kmart and Sears stores. This list names 79 stores for closure.

DUI Program Working

Due to the results of the statewide crime study, officials say aallowing convicted DUI offenders to drive if they agree to participate in the 24/7-sobriety program is working. South Dakota's annual crime report shows a significant drop in d-u-i arrests in 2010. South Dakota saw an 11.7 percent decrease in DUI arrests in 2010

Man Rescued from Bin

A Webster man is lucky to be alive after crews had to rescue him from a grain bin full of corn Wednesday. Authorities say the man was trying to get the corn to flow toward a discharge opening and was sucked down into the grain. Rescuers removed corn from the bin and were able to get the man out in about 90 minutes. He was taken to the hospital to be checked out.

Fair Being Extended

the Sioux Empire Fair is being extended. A spokeswoman says the fair this year will be from August 4-12. In previous years, the fair started August 7 and overlapped entirely with the annual Sturgis Rally. The three extra days means the festivities will span two weekends.

Driver Gets 14 Months

The man who drove through a Sioux Falls' woman's house at nearly 70 miles per hour this summer, destroying her living room and killing her Jack Russell terrier has been sentenced to 14 months in jail. Chad Alan Garner must serve at least seven months without work release.

Use Caution with Fireworks

The South Dakota Division of Wildland Fire Suppression is asking everyone to take extra precautions to prevent wildfires over the holiday weekend. The possibility of fireworks displays causing fast moving wildfires has increased significantly for this time of year because of warm, dry conditions and lack of recent moisture. The grassland fire danger is expected to be in the high or above category.
State Wildland Fire Coordinator Joe Lowe is asking residents and visitors to the state to use extreme precautions when they are shooting fireworks. The purchase and discharge of fireworks is prohibited within the Black Hills Forest Fire Protection District and many municipalities
This is the first year for a new law that allows for the sale and discharge of fireworks from December 28 through January 1.

Teels to Perform

The Teels will perform at the Old Courthouse Museum Winter Concert Series on Friday, January 6th. The concert is free from noon to 1 p.m. in the historic courtroom of the Old Courthouse Museum. Bring your lunch or purchase one from Kaladi’s.
The Teels have been sharing music for nearly 30 years. The traditional bluegrass sound has always been at their musical roots. Teels are blend of rich vocal harmonies and quality instrumental performances that all come together to offer a polished sound of traditional music

Theft from Church

More than $5000 worth of sound equipment stolen as thieves hit an unlocked church in Sioux Falls over the holiday weekend. Police were called to Central Baptist Church in the southwest part of the city on Monday when church officials noticed several items missing. A number of wireless microphones, as well as symbols, a drill, and hammer were reported missing.

Sears Closing Stores

100 and 120 Sears and Kmart stores are shutting down after terrible holiday sales during the most crucial time of the year for retailers. Sears Holdings Corp., based in Hoffman Estates, Ill., said Tuesday that the store closings will generate $140 to $170 million in cash in inventory sales. Sears has more than 4,000 stores in the U.S. and Canada.

Blood Donation Competition

It's a blood war of sorts as Sioux Falls firefighters and police officers are squaring off to see who can donate the most blood over the next couple of weeks. This is the 17th year the departments have gone head to head in the "heroes behind the badge" competition.
The battle will last until January sixth.
Last year, the men in blue donated 432 times, beating out the firefighters by two donations.

SD Lawmaker Wants Smoking Ban Exemption

A South Dakota lawmaker has drafted legislation that would exempt Deadwood casinos from a smoking ban. Senator Tom Nelson says that the voter-approved ban enacted in November 2010 is cutting gambling revenue. Nelson says casino owners were hoping revenue would bounce back quickly once the ban was implemented, but it has not.

Post-Christmas Shopping

Retailers were gearing up for big crowds, ready to hit the deals. "I think people are willing to spend. They have Christmas money, they have gift cards, they want to get rid of it, burn a hole in their pocket," said Van Ginkel. Employees at Bohme reeled in customers with a "buy one, get one half off" sale on all denim. They saw dozens of their gift cards back at the register. Retailers said even though the discounts could last for awhile, you may want to head to the store as soon as possible, as everything is flying off the shelves.

More Med School Money

Gov. Dennis Daugaard proposed more than $1 million to boost the state medical school budget. The additional money will attract more doctors in rural South Dakota. The legislature is slated to look at the request in January. University of South Dakota Medical School Dean Rodney Parry tells officials that the plan is an important step in providing doctors in rural areas.

GOlf Courses Stay Open

Elmwood Golf Course said more than 270 golfers took advantage of the open course Monday as the temperature reached 54. The course closed in early December but opened again last week. At least four area courses say they will be open until New Year’s Eve, and possibly longer if the weather holds.

McGovern update

Former U.S. Senator George McGovern says he's feeling better more than three weeks after falling and hitting his head in his home state of South Dakota. The 89-year-old former Democratic presidential candidate says that he's planning to return to his home in northeast Florida in a few weeks.

Dinosaur Park refurbished

Rapid City parks is refurbishing the concrete creatures in the city's Dinosaur Park. The park on Skyline Drive has been around since the 1930s, and the prehistoric creatures are windblown and weathered. Officials hope to complete repairs and have it restored by Memorial Day next spring.

Big Sioux Recreation Area Work Starts

Construction has started on expansion at Big Sioux Recreation Area between Sioux Falls and Brandon.
State officials made a move about a year ago to add more than 100 acres to the park. Plans are to install a canoe launch, build a dog park and training area, and add to bike and walking paths.

Trolley Done for Season

The Sioux Falls Trolley held its last day serving riders for the season. The trolley has been providing transportation for visitors on Saturdays between downtown areas and Falls Park. Its last run was at 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 24.

Yankton PO to Close

Yankton's downtown post office is closing in January. Officials say that the location's operations will move to the Fox Run Annex on West 25th Street. Yankton postmaster Michael Hampton sent a letter to post office box customers this past week informing them of the change. The consolidation will occur on Monday, Jan. 23.

Bar Fire

A state highway was temporarily closed from smoke that destroyed a Fort Pierre bar.
Authorities say a wood-burning stove is likely to have started the fire that gutted the Dudley's Valley Tap bar on Saturday. No injuries were reported.

MF Global Investigation

U.S. Senators Max Baucus (D-Mont.), Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, and John Thune (R-S.D.), Chairman of the Senate Republican Policy Committee, today sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder asking that the Department of Justice use all tools available to investigate, and potentially prosecute, MF Global executives who may have made illegal transactions using customer funds.
In their letter, signed by 15 of their colleagues, the Senators write, “If the Department’s ongoing investigation uncovers illegal actions, criminal prosecution should be pursued without hesitation. In order to get to the bottom of this, we urge federal agents to use every legal resource available.”

Woman Indicted for Murder, Child Abuse

A Wanblee woman who was nominated for a victim's advocacy award in two years ago is now accused of murdering her infant son "by extreme neglect." Kehunna Poitra was indicted Tuesday by a federal grand jury on charges of second-degree murder and child abuse and neglect. The indictment alleges Poitra neglected her son over the course of seven weeks, causing his death in August.

AG Jackley Receives Award

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has received a national award honoring his commitment to fight drunk driving and underage drinking. Jackley is 1 of 5 attorneys general honored by the Century Council, a national not-for-profit organization funded by distillers.

Roll Over Death

A Sioux Falls man has died from injuries suffered in a one-vehicle crash on Interstate 29 near the Worthing exit on Nov. 19. Philip Hassebroek, 28, was the driver of a 2004 Ford F250 truck that lost control as it traveled southbound on I-29. The vehicle entered the median and rolled. Hassebroek and one passenger were thrown from the vehicle. None of the occupants were wearing seatbelts.

Teen Held in Infant Death

South Dakota authorities say a 14-year-old boy has been charged with second-degree murder in the death of a 1-year-old girl.
KSFY reports that the infant was transferred on Saturday from Rapid City Regional Hospital to Sanford Children's Hospital in Sioux Falls. She died on Tuesday.
Authorities say the teen was arrested Wednesday afternoon. He's being held in the Western South Dakota Juvenile Services Center in Rapid City.

Nerw Sunny Location

Sunny Radio is moving from our current location on Splitrock Blvd. to Suite 203 in the Splitrock Square complex, also located on Splitrock Boulevard. “It’s not a bad location,” said station owner our very own John Small. “But we just don’t have room for everybody.”
The 2-year-old radio station employs a staff of 15. Sunny Radio should be in our new location by Jan. 1.

No Ice

Your usrge to ice skate may be delayed as the city of Souix Falls struggles to make ice. Park officials said they've been having a tough time making ice for the rinks this season.
Officials said it takes about a week to make ice that's safe for skating. Crews have been making the ice in small increments at a time, only to be let down. Officials say the public has been cooperative about the wait, since they have been able to enjoy those nicer weather activities in the mean time.

Soldier Injured in Fight

The lawyer for a South Dakota National Guard soldier says his client remains in a Minneapolis-area hospital from severe injuries he received in fight outside of a Spearfish restaurant.
22 year old Hugo Estes was hurt in a fight around 2 a.m. Sunday morning. Estes, a National Guardsman, returned from a tour in Afghanistan last year before volunteering for a second tour.

Big Pot Bust

Sturgis police say officers seized 59 pounds of marijuana and arrested two out-of-state men after a traffic stop Sunday morning for speeding.
During a search of the vehicle, Sturgis police say the marijuana was found. 27-year-old Nicholas James Schneider of Key West, Fla. and his passenger, 21-year-old Andrew Michael Robertson of Tulsa, Okla., were charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and possession of marijuana more than 10 pounds. Schneider also was charged with

Patrol Accidents

When officers pull over to the side of the road to help victims in an accident, they can sometimes become part of the accident themselves. The South Dakota Highway Patrol said 13 patrol vehicles were hit last winter, and they are working to prevent that this year.
"We've had officers that have been injured and some of them have experienced permanent disability because of those accidents," said Sioux Falls Police Department Chief Doug Barthel.

Third Penny Sales Tax

While the city economizes on items in the general fund budget, at least one other city fund has a hefty reserve and continues to grow. The city’s third-penny sales tax fund has $550,000 in it, said City Administrator Bryan Read. In other areas, the city has had to trim budgets.

Inmate Sentenced for Walking Away from Halfway House

A South Dakota man's gotten 15-months in prison for walking away from a halfway house. According to KSFY, David McGhee, of Lake Andes, was serving 46-months for an illegal weapons charge, and a federal grand jury indicted him for being a felon in possession of a firearm when he left Glory House in Sioux Falls. A federal judge ordered the 15-months be served after his current sentence.

Cabbie Killer Sentenced to 80-years

Lloyd Wilson's been sentenced to 80-years in prison for choking another man to death in an argument over a cab ride in October of last year. The Argus Leader reports a jury convicted him of first-degree manslaughter and aggravated assault in 42-year old Bret Moe's death. Wilson's not expected to be eligible for parole for at least 52-years.

Minnehaha Commission Approves Development

The Minnehaha County Commission's given a green light to an eight-lot subdivision for the Sorem Heights development in Renner. The approval's tied to the developers building roads through the property and future property owners keeping up roads and drainage.

Cost of Powerball Going Up

The cost of a Powerball ticket will double to $2 next year in South Dakota. The state Legislature's rules review committee on Tuesday approved the Powerball changes to allow for South Dakota's continued involvement in the lottery that includes 43 other states. Officials say the move may mean fewer tickets are sold but revenue will likely increase five percent.

New Leader for SDSEO

A former state government employee has been tapped to lead the South Dakota State Employees Organization. Eric Ollila will be the new executive director of the Pierre-based organization that represents state government employees. He replaces Corey Landeen, who resigned this fall after his wife took a job in another state.

Sturgis Pot Bust

Sturgis police seized 59 pounds of marijuana and arrested two out-of-state men after a traffic stop. 27-year-old Nicholas Schneider and his passenger, 21-year-old Andrew Robertson were charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute Meade County State's Attorney Kevin Krull says the marijuana arrest was 1 of the largest for Sturgis police.

Munk Stepping Down

After 31 years, Steven Munk says he is stepping down. Family and friends gathered at the Old Courthouse Museum today to pay recognition. Munk's primary focus has been in Horticulture and 4-H Youth Development. He's known for bringing the Master Gardener Program to South Dakota, organizing the Lawn and Garden Show and the Washington Pavilion's Ag Day Event.

Layaway Angels Hit SF

You may have heard about those who are being dubbed 'Kmart Angels'. Whoever they are, they're not just looking over those in St. Louis and Washington, they're also helping out those in need in Sioux Falls. These angels are anonymous citizens who are paying off or making payments on layaway accounts at K-mart stores throughout the nation.
"We've had upwards to two thousand dollars so far," said Kmart Store Manager Duane Johnson. "It's random, it's been everywhere from making the minimum payment for the customer to paying off the layaway completely

Rape Charges

A Huron bar owner accused of raping three girls and serving alcohol to minors said he is not guilty. Werner Fajardo made the plea before a judge during a preliminary hearing.
Fajardo is being held in the Beadle County Jail on a $150,000 bond. His trial starts March 28

Starlab

The Old Courthouse Museum will host Starlab Inflatable Planetarium on Thursday, December 29th at 1, 2, and 3 p.m. Starlab is a portable planetarium which allows indoor simulation of stars and constellations in the night sky. Program is for children over the age of 5only, children attending should be comfortable in the dark. Please register groups of 8 or more by calling 367-4210 ext.0. Starlab begins promptly at the beginning of the hour, please arrive 10-15 before the hour to purchase tickets. Please call for additional information.

SD Company gets Big Saudi Fire Gear Order

Rosenbauer America's gotten a $319-million order from Saudi Arabia's Ministry of the Interior for fire engineering equipment. KELO reports over 500 of the 1,100 vehicles ordered will be built in Lyons, just outside Sioux Falls. A company spokesperson says the order will keep the Lyons plant running at full capacity through 2014 and bring new job opportunities. The Saudi expansion involves building and equipping 180 new fire-stations.

SF Man Sentenced

A Sioux Falls man convicted of strangling another man in an argument over a taxicab ride has been sentenced to serve 80 years in prison. 45-year-old Lloyd Wilson fatally assaulted 42-year-old Bret Moe of Sioux Falls last October. Moe died in a hospital about a month after being choked by Wilson. The two men had argued after separately calling for a cab from a bar

Tritt and Bentley at Fair

Country music stars Travis Tritt and Dierks Bentley are booked for the Brown County Fair in August. Tritt will be making his first appearance at the Aberdeen festival, headlining the 2012 fair's opening concert on August 16. Tickets go on sale June 15.

Dry Fall Looks Good to Army Corps of Engineers

Thanks to a dry fall across the northern Plains, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is months ahead of schedule in releasing water from reservoirs on the upper Missouri River to guard against another spring of record-setting flooding.
Jody Farhat, chief of the corps' Missouri River Basin Water Management Division, said that by the end of December, reservoir levels will be where corps officials had initially aimed to hit in early March. Gov. Dennis Daugaard is among the state officials who have asked the corps to draw down one of the corps' reservoirs by an extra 2.5 feet by next spring.

Governor in California

Earlier this month, the Governor and Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) Commissioner J. Pat Costello made an economic development trip to the San Diego area to meet business leaders interested in learning more about South Dakota’s business and regulatory climate. Three roundtable discussions were held Dec. 9 with more than 60 business leaders, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists and attorneys. The Governor said he was overwhelmed by the positive response from the San Diego area business community.

43rd Annual Pork Congress

The South Dakota Pork Producers Council (SDPPC) announces their 43rd Annual Pork Congress to be held at the Sioux Falls Ramkota Hotel and Exhibit Hall on January 12 and 13, 2012. The two-day trade show will run from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Thursday, January 12th and 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Friday, January 13th. Exhibitors will display the latest in technology, equipment, feeds, and vet supplies. Admission to the trade show is FREE and a pork loin feed is available to all in attendance Thursday beginning at 11:30 a.m. in the Ramkota Exhibit Hall Annex.

Helpline Center

The holiday season is generally considered a joyous time to connect with loved ones. But for many it may also be a season filled with depression and loneliness. For individuals experiencing feelings of sadness, despair or suicidal thoughts, the Helpline Center is available 24/7 to offer support.
Individuals stressed about finances, struggling with a mental illness, dealing with an abusive situation or feeling alone can simply call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to be connected to a caring voice.

New Details in December 9th Plane Crash

New details in the December 9th crash of a plane near Sioux Falls. Federal investigators say the pilot tried to get back to the airport, after an air traffic controller told him he spotted a some smoke coming from the plane. KSFY reports the message went to the plane less than a minute after it took off. The controller then told the pilot the smoke had stopped and cleared the plane to land. It crashed killing the pilot and three passengers.

Federal Suit Filed over Mitchell Bar Beating

The conservator for a Fargo man beaten at Thirsty's Bar in Mitchell , has filed a suit against the bar and its' owner in federal court in Sioux Falls. The suit alleges the bar was negligent. KELO reports 38-year old Thomas Somerville, the bar manager, goes to trial in February for the September 30th beating of Clint Dreyer in February, and 34-year old William Watkins' already plead guilty to aggravated assault for beating Dreyer later the same night. Dreyer's still in a Sioux Falls hospital.

Pine Beetle Problems

While some critics say the U.S. Forest Service isn't doing enough to address the pine beetle problem in South Dakota's Black Hills, others think the federal agency is going too far. The Defenders of the Black Hills environmental group criticized government plans to control pine beetles with logging and tree-thinning. Supporters say cutting down beetle-infested trees before the beetles reproduce can help contain the insects.

Young Pillow Pet Santa

One 6-year-old boy from Bryant is giving back. Aiden Moe won a $1,000 prize and instead of spending the money on himself, he bought Pillow Pets for kids who are staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Sioux Falls.
He delivered all the Pillow Pets, 118 in all, Saturday and handed them out to families.

Two Arrested After Chase

Two people are behind bars Saturday night after they lead Sioux Falls police on two separate car chases and then police found drugs. It happened around 3:45 a.m. Saturday when an officer tried to stop a car near 21st Street and Menlo Avenue in Sioux Falls.
Police say the driver didn't stop and took off but eventually pulled over near 41st Street and Kiwanis Avenue but a woman then got out of the car and started running. Meanwhile, the driver took off. The woman was found near South Tennis Lane in Sioux Falls. Nicole Gerry from Sioux Falls was carrying drugs and is now behind bars. The driver was caight a short time later after another short chadse.

Raven Industries

Sioux Falls-based manufacturing company Raven Industries says its global positioning system products will be distributed through NavtechGPS.
Under the agreement, Virginia-based NavtechGPS will receive and process United States orders on Raven StarLink DGPS products, which include line amplifiers, down-up converters, splitters and antennas.

Golfers Enjoy Weather

If you're a golfer, then you are probably enjoying the unseasonable weather. And many around Sioux Falls took advantage of the open links. “It's December 18th, and I came out to golf,” said Morris Boyd. “It’s kind of interesting to play golf, especially in South Dakota, in December,” said Travis Tobin. Some golfers were far from mid-season form, but plenty showed up to the Elmwood Golf Course to shake off some off-season cobwebs.

Murder Trial Set

A South Dakota man accused of killing his infant son is to stand trial next spring. 37 year old Chris Miller is accused of killing 4 month old Jacob in March by shaking and beating the child. He has pleaded not guilty to several charges, including murder. The trial is scheduled to begin May 14 in Tyndall.

Scam Returns

Attorney General Marty Jackley is warning South Dakota seniors to be cautious if they receive telephone calls from someone who claims to be their grandchild or other family member and requests money for a critical situation.
The South Dakota Consumer Protection Division has received numerous calls over the past few days.
In this reoccurring scam, a fraudster calls a senior individual and poses as a grandchild. The person calling uses a plea for help and a sense of urgency when asking for a wire transfer in amounts up to $6,500.

Couple Arrested after Home Invasion

Police said a couple was arrested for several drug charges after reporting a home invasion. Authorities said two men entered the house on 904 W. 36th St. armed with a gun and demanding money. The couple and their two children weren't hurt during the break-in, but it turned out that the couple's call for help led to their own arrest. Aaron Jay Hudecek and Jaime Marie Hudecek were arrested on multiple drug charges after a search of the home.

SF Makes List of Most Secure Mid-Size U.S. Cities

Farmers Insurance says Sioux Falls is, for the 8th year in the row, one of the most secure places to live in the U.S. KDLT says the Farmers list puts Sioux Falls at #6 on its list of safest mid-size cities. Among the items considered in the ranking: crime stats, extreme weather, risk of natural disasters, housing depreciation, foreclosures, air quality, environmental hazards, terrorist threats, life expectancy, mortality rates from cancer and car accidents, and job loss numbers.

Police Looking for Casino Robber

Police are looking for a slim white male in his 20-'s after an armed robbery at the Fireside Casino in the 3200 block of S. Carolyn Avenue late this morning. The Argus Leader says witnesses tell police the suspect did display a weapon before running off with a cash box. He's about 5'9", wearing black jogging pants, dark gray hoodie, dark gloves and a mask on the lower half of his face and glasses.

Zebra Gives Birth at Zoo

A Grevy's zebra has given birth at the Great Plains Zoo in Sioux Falls. Grevy's zebras are native to Africa and are considered endangered. The zoo says 10-year-old Trinity gave birth recently to an 80-pound male foal. This is the second foal born at the zoo this year.

Woman Hit by Train

A woman was hit and killed by a train in Aberdeen. The 52-year-old woman was hit at around 9:30 Wednesday evening while trying to cross the tracks near the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railyard. It happened on the 100 block of Railroad Avenue South East and that the BNSF train was reversing when it hit the woman. The woman's name has not been released.

Cell Phone Ban Has State Officials Talking

A new recommendation to ban cell phone use while driving nationwide has many people talking. The National Transportation Safety Board is urging people to give up texting and even hands-free calling with the exception of an emergency. As distracted driving continues to become life-threatening, technology is growing faster than we can keep up with. State Representative Mark Willadsen supported a bill last year to restrict texting and driving in South Dakota, which ultimately did not pass.

Abandoned Vehicles Will Be Towed

Sioux Falls Police Department is checking areas to ensure abandoned vehicles will be off the streets. Officers said they need to clear the streets as soon as possible to avoid cars being plowed in. If anyone has a car that has been parked on the street for awhile, police will issue a warning tag that says it has to be moved within 24 hours. Officers will make attempts to contact the owner if a vehicle hasn't been moved, but if they do not get a response, the car will be towed according to KDLT.

Truckers Ready for Winter Roads

Travel is becoming treacherous on roads around the state and truckers are preparing.
“No, I'm not very fond of it,” said trucker, Craig Williams. And no one else on the roads seems to be. After a couple of days of wet road conditions colder temperatures will make the watery highways slick and icy. With winter beginning to change highway conditions, truckers applaud road crews working to keep roads ice-free.

Missing Boy Found Safe

Authorities say they have located a Flandreau child that had been missing.
They say 13-year-old Dedric Rose was last seen around 4:40 p.m. Wednesday afternoon at the Flandreau School before being reported missing. He was found late Wednesday evening. Authorities have not released any further information about the case.

Funerals for Plane Crash Victims

Sioux Falls mourned the loss and celebrated the lives of four men killed last Friday in a plane crash near the Sioux Falls airport. The funeral for pilot Brian Blake was held yesterday at Southern Hills United Methodist Church, and at Grace Lutheran Church for Kevin Anderson. The memorial service for the fourth victim, Joshua Lambrecht of Brandon, will be held at 2 p.m. at the Best Western Ramkota Hotel Exhibit Hall.

Woman Pleads Guilty to Hitting Sister With Car

Robin Chasing Hawk of Eagle Butte faces 10-years in prison and a $250,000 find when she's sentenced in March. The U.S. Attorney's office says she pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon yesterday. Prosecutors say Chasing Hawk and her sister got into an argument back in August while in a car. The sister got out, and started walking away when Chasing Hawk hit her with the car. The sister bad a broken neck, back and a fractured pelvis.

Spense Dog Park Meeting

Sioux Falls Public Works and Parks and Recreation has a meeting tomorrow morning at 11:15 at Spencer Park. The Argus leader reports it's to discuss the reopening of the dog park as well as progress on the Sioux River south construction project. The east run of Spencer Dog Park has reopened now that a new sanitary sewer pipe's been installed. Replacing the turf and irrigation lines should start next spring.

Ree to be Tried for Murder as Adult

A judge has decided that 18-year old Dwight Ree, will be tried as an adult for first degree murder. The Argus Leader reports Ree's admitted to helping beat a Sudanese refugee to death when he was 17. Ree and Jerome Ewing, each face alternate counts of first- and second-degree murder and manslaughter in the June 16 beating death of 20-year-old Geu Ayuel.

RC Woman Requests Release

A Rapid City woman accused of trying to rob two casinos last summer wants out of jail to attend the funeral of her fiancé. 51-year-old Terry Brown was hit and killed by a vehicle on Saturday night. His funeral is Friday. 26-year-old Julia Peters is accused of using a knife and a machete to try to rob two casinos in a 4-day span in early July. Prosecutors object to Peters' request to be released for Brown's funeral. The judge hasn't made a decision.

Two Farm Theft Cases

Two South Dakota men are charged in separate farm theft cases. Mitchell-area farmer Scott Suelflow is accused of taking about $4,200 worth of corn from a bin in rural Davison County.
Jamie Shape of Bridgewater is accused of stealing hay that was bound for a northwest Iowa dairy. Authorities believe the thefts have been going on for several months and involve more than $10,000 worth of hay.

Small Business Friendly

South Dakota has once again been named the friendliest state toward small business by the Small Business Entrepreneurship Council. It's the seventh year in a row the state has received the recognition. The study highlighted South Dakota's tax policy and also recognized the state's low crime rate, few health insurance mandates and low levels of government spending.

Yankton School District May Seek Opt Out

The Yankton School District is still dealing with the impact of major budget cuts and is discussing another opt-out, despite Gov. Dennis Daugaard's proposal to increase education funding. School officials said while they are pleased the governor proposed a 2.3 percent increase in funding for education, the challenge will be balancing that increase after $1.2 million was cut from the district last year.

Thune Elected Chairman

Senator John Thune was elected Chairman of the Senate Republican Conference today by his fellow Republican Senators. Thune will officially assume the position of Senate Republican Conference Chairman in late January when Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) steps down from the position. The Chairman of the Senate Republican Conference is the number three leadership position for Senate Republicans and is tasked with spearheading messaging efforts for the conference.

Terex Corporation’s Bid-Well

The Terex Corporation’s Bid-Well concrete paving equipment business has officially opened a new 80,000 square foot, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Canton. The grand opening was marked with a ribboncutting ceremony attended by local, state and corporate guests including Terex Corporation Chairman and CEO Ron DeFeo. The $5 million project, constructed on an eight–acre site in the new Canton Industrial Park, replaces three older buildings in Canton

New Scanners for Rapid City Airport

Rapid City Regional Airport will be first in South Dakota to get those full-body scanners. An airport spokesperson tells KELO TSA personnel will start using the Advanced Imaging Technology unit Friday. The airport is one of 16 getting the new gear over the next few weeks.

USPS Puts Downsizing on Hold

The U.S. Postal Service has agreed postpone closing any more offices or processing facilities until next Mayl giving Congress time to work on a plan to save the service. This comes a week after USPS announced a plan to slow down first-class mail, which would have closed some 250 mail processing plants nationwide and eliminated 28,000 jobs.

Yankton Chriopractor Sentenced

A Yankton chiropractor has been sentenced to five years of probation and ordered to pay a $5,000 fine for defrauding Medicare and Medicaid. 63 year old Larry Jones admitted in a plea agreement with prosecutors to making false claims for two patients between January 2005 and April 2011. His license has also been revoked.

SD Best for Small Business

South Dakota has once again been named the friendliest state for small business. It's the seventh year in a row the state has received the recognition from the Small Business Entrepreneurship Council. The study highlighted our tax policy , low crime rate, few health insurance mandates and low levels of government spending.

Events Center Plan

Mayor Mike Huether laid out his events center contrustruction project Monday night before the city council. It will take an army of city officers and third-party contractors to make the $115 Million dollar facility happen. The city has already committed to contracts worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. But while combing through the construction contracts, city officials are also working on fulfilling an events center campaign promise.

Blue Angels Fly In

A United States Navy fighter jet landed in Sioux Falls Monday. KDLT reports that the F-18 belonging to the Blue Angels touched down Monday afternoon the advance team arrived to look over the site at the airport and prepare for this summer's "Power on the Prairie" Air Show. The aerial demonstration team will be the featured attraction July 21st and 22nd.

Job Fair

Capital One will be holding a job fair as the company looks to fill 400 positions in Sioux Falls today. The fair takes place 2-7 p.m. at Southeast Technical Institute. A variety of positions need to be filled ranging from phone servicing to training and even management positions. Capital One Operations Director Dave Herr says, "That job fair is designed for anyone to come by whether they're applied online or not, to talk to us about the open roles we have right here on the spot, and to even begin the interview process. In coming down and learning a little about Capital One and the roles we offer, that's a great opportunity.”

Road Work

On Wednesday morning December 14, 2011 the outside northbound lane on Cliff Avenue will be closed between Benson Road and 60th Street North. Traffic will be maintained in the remaining northbound lane. Q3 will be working on utilities. The work is anticipated to be finished by the evening of Friday December 30, 2011.

Yankton Chiropractor Loses License

A Yankton chiropractor's had his license pulled by the state Board of Chiropractic Examiners after he admitted submitting phony claims to Medicaid and Medicare. The revocation of Larry Jones license takes effect immediately. KELO reports Jones also faces criminal charges in the investigation of the phony claims, which officials say were submitted between 2005 and April of this year.

Brandon Task Force To Oppose BNSF Switchyard Plan

Brandon's City Council's got a task force to review and respond to plans to move a rail yard from downtown Sioux Falls to an area between the Sioux Falls and Brandon. Brandon officials oppose one of three options to move the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway switching yard to an area north of Rice Street from Timberline Avenue on the west to Brandon city limits on the east. The council's drafting a resolution to present to Sioux Falls planners, listing their objections.

Monthly Event's Center Updates Start Today

With voter approval for the Events Center, Sioux Falls Mayor Mike Huether today starts giving monthly updates on progress of the project during the city council's Monday informational meeting. KELO reports today's the first of 33 planned updates. Groundbreaking's scheduled in August 2012 and the Events Center is supposed to open in the fall of 2014.

Turn in Poachers

A program that offers reward money for tips about illegal hunting or fishing in South Dakota paid out almost $8,800 last year. Turn In Poachers is run through the state Department of Game, Fish and Parks. The program produced 394 investigations in the fiscal year ending June 30

Tous For Tots Needs More Help

Toys For Tots is ready for the holiday season but still needs more help. Coordinator Melissa Jungemann says Anyone can signup for services and as long as they feel they need some assistance. Families could sign up earlier this fall so that each child in their family could get at least one present this year. So far about 1500 toys have been donated to Toys For Tots, but within the next week the organization could use another 600.

Fatel Crash

A 51-year-old Rapid City man was killed Saturday evening in a car-pedestrian accident.
Authorities say the accident happened at 5:23 p.m. in Rapid City. The victim was transported to a local hospital, where he died. Police believe alcohol was a factor in the crash.

No Parking More

Beginning at 7:00 am on Monday, December 12, 2011, parking along the southbound lane on North Prairie Avenue at the intersection with West Bailey Street will be closed. The sidewalk in this area will be closed as well.
The work will include installing one (1) sanitary sewer manhole just off the sidewalk. This work is anticipated to be completed by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, December 13, 2011.

No Parking

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Monday, December 12, 2011, the parking along the westbound lane on West Bailey Street at the intersection with North Prairie Avenue will be closed. The sidewalk in this area will be closed as well.
The work will include installing one (1) sanitary sewer manhole just off the sidewalk. This work is anticipated to be completed by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, December 13, 2011.

Road Closure

Beginning on Tuesday, December 13, 2011, the center turn lane on Marion Road between Berkshire Boulevard and 39th Street will be closed. Testing crews will be coring through the pavement to collect soil samples.
One lane of traffic will be maintained in each direction on Marion Road. Work is scheduled to be completed by the end of Tuesday, December 13, 2011.

Help needed

On the morning of December 6th, the house in which Bill Preheim and Kyle Amundson (and two others) were living was badly burned in an accidental fire. The house was a total loss. Fortunately, no one was hurt, however, almost all personal belongings were lost.
Unfortunately, there was no insurance in place to protect the loss of Real Property, nor the loss of Personal Property. A Disaster Relief Fund has been established at the Service First Federal Credit Union in Sioux Falls. Contributions may be made at any of their three convenient locations: 3901 East Tenth Street, 1300 North Morrell Avenue, and 3600 South Kiwanis Avenue.

Task Force Working On Teen Driving Issues

South Dakota officials plan to spend the next year reviewing statistics and laws affecting teen drivers to prepare recommendations for potential changes to the 2013 Legislature. KELO reports the Task Force on Teen Driving Safety \will examine teen-driving data, including statistics on traffic citations, crashes, injuries and deaths; study driver-education data available to teens; and examine policies that might thwart efforts to improve teen-driving safety.

Four Killed In Plane Crash Near SF Regional Airport

Four people are dead after a plan crashed this afternoon near Benson Road and Westport Avenue. According to the Argus Leader, the plane was on its way from Sioux Falls Regional Airport to Rapid City, when there was some problem. The pilot tried to return to the airport but crashed about a quarter mile from the airport. The FAA will be looking into the cause of the crash.

Fatal House Fire

Local and state authorities are still investigating a house fire last weekend that killed a 2-year-old boy in the southeast South Dakota city of Winner. Police officers on patrol first noticed the blaze about 1:40 a.m. Saturday. Firefighters were unable to save the home, or the boy. Three other people escaped the fire and were taken to a local hospital. One of them later was flown to a burn center.

Man Accused of Beating Pregnant Wife

A Huron man is accused of trying to kill his pregnant wife. 24 year-old Thoung Sing faces an array of charges, including attempted murder, and aggravated domestic assault. Police say he beat his wife who is six month pregnant, leaving her unresponsive. Sing has been working in Huron for two and a half years, but he's originally from Thailand and needed an interpreter in court.

Integra Plastics

A Madison company is about to begin production in its new 49,000-square-foot plant in the Corson Development Park. Integra Plastics, a manufacturer of plastic covers and liners for agricultural and environmental uses, plans to be in full production next month, according to company officials. Mick Green, Integra Plastics president, said the new facility will include manufacturing, storage and office space that will allow the company to grow at that building and in its new Brandon location.

Snowgate testing

some neighborhoods in Sioux Falls will get some extra help cleaning up the mess once the first major snowfall hits. Once again, the city will be testing snowgates. Last year the city ran a test in 2 neighborhoods, this year they’ll be testing 3. In neighborhood #1, the test will run from Marson Street, south to the city limits and from the railroad tracks, east to Sycamore. In neighborhood #2, gates will be used from Western to Minnesota, and from 69th Street to 85th Street. In neighborhood #3, a contractor will plow with gates from Louise to Western, and from 69th Street south to the city limits.

Drug Bust

Seven people are in police custody after a drug raid at a house half a block from an elementary school. Authorities say Wednesday's raid capped a month-long investigation into marijuana distribution that began with a tip from the public. Police say they seized marijuana, ecstasy, drug paraphernalia and about $1,100 in cash. A drug crime within 1,000 feet of a school carries a mandatory minimum prison term of five years upon conviction.

VA Making Changes to Benefit Women Vets

Veterans Affairs is upgrading its Sioux Falls hospital and related services, because there's been an increase in the number of South Dakota women serving in the military. The Argus Leader reports the plan calls for expanding the health care options, such as better access to mammograms, and an overall change to make the facility more comfortable for women.

GOP Legislators Accuse LRC of Spilling the Beans

Six Republican legislators are claiming the Legislative Research Council - the support staff of the legislature - violated its own policy and shared confidential information on proposed legislation to the House leadership. The Argus Leader reports they want the LRC to hand over e-mails, memo's and notes between them and any House speaker Val Rausch and House Majority Leader David Lust. The head of the Legislative Executive Board says he'll decide the issue in a few days.

Two SF Companies Hiring

Two more Sioux Falls financial companies are adding workers. Premier Bankcard has hired more than 100 employees and plans to continue hiring through the first three months of next year. The 100 new workers are for facilities in Sioux Falls, Watertown and Dakota Dunes. President and CEO Miles Beacom says it's the company's first significant hires since 2009.

Tim Johnson Looking to Block Cordray

Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Johnson (D-SD) held a press conference today along with eight fellow Banking Committee members, to urge Senate Republicans to abandon plans to try to undermine a new consumer protection agency by depriving it of a director. Senate Republicans have vowed to block President Obama’s nominee to head the agency, former Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray, unless the agency’s authority is weakened. The Senate is expected to hold a key vote on Cordray’s nomination today.

European Union Emissions Trading Scheme Prohibition Act of 2011

U.S. Senator John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Commerce Committee’s Aviation Operations, Safety and Security Subcommittee, today introduced a bill, the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme Prohibition Act of 2011, to prevent the European Union (E.U.) from adding a tax on flights traveling through U.S. airspace. Starting on January 1, 2012, all international flights operating to and from the E.U. will be included in the E.U. Emissions Trading System, including flights between the U.S. and the E.U.

Kids Activity Day

The Old Courthouse Museum will host Kids Activity Day on Thursday, December 15th. The theme for December is Keeping Warm! Children will be given the opportunity to make a craft while learning about history. The program has two sessions; the morning session is from 9 to 11:30 a.m., afternoon sessions from 1-2:30 p.m., and creative learning programs run every 15 minutes throughout the sessions.
Kids Activity Day is a make and take craft program offered year around on the third Thursday of every month at the Old Courthouse Museum. Children 3-12 are invited to participate. Please register by calling (605) 367-4210 ext. 0.

Lawmakers say State Needs Plan to Pay Workers Bonuses

Members of a legislative committee are pushing the state to adopt a general set of rules for how bonuses are given to state workers who perform above and beyond the call of duty. KDLT reports lawmakers noted $500 bonuses given to 155 Health Department workers for their actions during the swine flu threat. An audit found the bonuses, paid from a federal grant, weren't allowed because the health department didn't have a police on apply bonuses to all programs.

Educators Happy with Gov. Daugaard's Plan for School Spending

Educators are praising Gov. Daugaard's decision to ask lawmakers to raise per pupil spending to $35 a step in the right direction. KELO reports Brandon Valley schools would see an extra $118,000 in state aid. The executive director of the Associated School Boards of South Dakota says the Governor's decision doesn't make up for lost ground, it does show a commitment to the school funding formula and gives some financial certainty to schools.

Fire Destroys Home, And Prevention Tips

Four Sioux Falls residents are without a home after a fire destroyed their house at 1125 N. Spring Ave. Fire officials said a wood-burning stove is to blame. Firefighters arrived just after 8 a.m. to try to battle the fire. Those who lived in the home said they plan to stay with friends and family for the time being, and are leaning on loved ones for support. It’s important to stay warm this winter, but there are many dangers that can turn a controlled fire into an out of control fire that can engulf a house. Fire officials offer tips to prevent a disastrous holiday season.
“Certainly, make sure you keep all your heating sources away from anything combustible,” said Sioux Falls Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Jay Tatus.
Another simple tip starts with the chimney. Make sure that it’s free of creosote and if you don't do it yourself, it's really good to have a professional do it,”

Long Range School Plan

Democratic leaders said they’ll work in the 2012 legislature to develop a long-range plan for school funding.
“The governor’s proposed budget sounds OK if your memory only goes back the last nine months,” said Rep. Bernie Hunhoff, the House Minority Leader. “But anyone who knows the history of the last decade understands that we’ve dug a very deep hole for our schools, and the proposed increases don’t even begin to fill the needs.”

Flags Half Staff

Gov. Dennis Daugaard asks that all flags in South Dakota be flown at half-staff from 8 a.m. until sunset on Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2011.
The Governor’s request comes at the urging of President Obama, who has issued a proclamation in recognition of the 70th anniversary of the American patriots who died in Japanese attacks at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.

Street Closure

Bahnson Avenue will be closed between 18th Street and 20th Street. A detour will be set-up using 18th Street, Annway Drive, and 20th Street.
The City of Sioux Falls Public Works Department will be working on a water line.
The work is anticipated to be finished by the evening of Thursday December 8, 2011.
Motorists are urged to use caution when travelling in this area.

Guv Wants to Spend More Money in New Budget

Gov. Daugaard's taken the wraps off his budget, and KDLT reports it'll increase spending on education and health care, plus give state employee's something they haven't seen in three years--a raise. The governor wants to increase state aid to school districts by 4.5%, and give state workers a 3% raise, and a one time bonus.

Citigroup Planning Job CUts

Citigroup says it is cutting 4,500 jobs over the next few quarters. KELO reports a company spokesperson says the cuts are needed to cut costs. Citigroup's 4th quarter numbers include $400-million for employee severance expenses. The bank expects to take a half billion dollar hit on an accounting loss tied to the higher cost of its debt.

SF Zoo Achieves Accreditation

Sioux Falls' Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum has been granted accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Fewer than 10 percent of the approximately 2,400 animal exhibitors in the United States are AZA accredited. To receive the honor, the Great Plains Zoo had to go through a rigorous process including an onsite inspection and interviews.

Northrop Closing RC Office

Defense contractor Northrop Grumman will close its Rapid City office by the end of April, with some employees losing their jobs and others being assigned to work from home. A spokesman says the decision was part of an ongoing affordability review. He says the company is doing what it can to reduce overhead in anticipation of an expected shrinking Department of Defense budget.

Student Death Still a Mystery

A 20-year-old University of South Dakota student was found dead in his room early Sunday morning and authorities with the Vermillion Police Department have yet to release the cause. Jeff Haeder was found unresponsive when police arrived to his apartment. They said they do not suspect foul play, and are continuing the investigation into the death.

Howliday open house

With the closure of Second Chance Rescue Center in July, the Humane Society's now the only adoption center in Sioux Falls. And with that, the need is great for financial help. The facility currently has more than 100 dogs and cats each, and some days they take in dozens more. This weekend, the organization's hosting a Howliday open house, where people can donate pet food and purchase holiday items to benefit the animals.

Mitchell Planning Chat on New City Hall

Mitchell's City Council's considering a discussion of moving its' city hall. KELO reports the issue's on tonight's agenda. It's tied to a study of a new Corn Palace that could use part of the current city hall for expansion. City officials say they're running out of space, so a possible relocation down the road could address that problem. A committee study says a new and bigger Corn Palace could be a big boost for tourism.

Vandals Smash Christmas Decorations

Sioux Falls Police would like to catch at least two people they believe smashed Christmas decorations set up outside at least six homes over the weekend. The homes were in an area between 22nd and 65th streets, and Holbrook and Setoma Avenues on the Southwest side. Detectives tell KSFY footprints point to at least two people. The ornaments were torn apart or stomped on. Contact Crimestoppers at 367-7007, if you have information.

Sanford Health Update

Dakotas-based Sanford Health will hire more than 100 workers as it prepares to move into its new heart hospital in Sioux Falls. Sanford has scheduled open houses for the public at the $74 million, seven-story brick tower in February. The first patients are to arrive in early March. Sanford officials say they expect the building to last for 100 years.

Veterans Home in Aberdeen discussed

Officials are working to bring a veterans retirement home to Aberdeen. The only veterans home in South Dakota is a state-run facility in the southwestern city of Hot Springs. The Aberdeen VFW is working with Avera St. Luke's Hospital on the project, which would be in partnership with the state. An informational meeting is scheduled Tuesday night at the Aberdeen VFW.

Webinar Offered

A webinar will be offered to farmers in five states to explain what government resources are available to help them recover from the recent Missouri River flooding. The Dec. 14th webinar will feature two producers who are repairing their farmland and representatives from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Check Christmas Lights for Fire Hazards

Residents with old and potentially dangerous holiday lights can recycle them at the Household Hazardous Waste Facility, 1015 E. Chambers St., just off North Cliff Avenue.
Frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets and excessive kinking or wear present a potential fire hazard. There is no charge for disposal of old lights at the HHWF. Residents can drive under the awning and staff members will unload the materials. No waste from businesses or organizations is accepted. The HHWF is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday.

Man Dies Trying to Save Hunting Dog

57-year-old James Koupal died over the weekend as he tried to save the dog from freezing waters. A rescue team pulled the hunter's body from Island Lake Sunday morning, near the northwest corner of Minnehaha County.
Sheriff Mike Milstead says Koupal and his dog were duck hunting alone Saturday when he believes the canine went after a bird, fell through the ice and plunged into the freezing water.

Fires Intentionally Set

Authorities say several grass fires in northern Minnehaha County early Saturday morning were intentionally set. Crews responded to about a dozen fires in the Dell Rapids, Baltic and Garretson areas.The sheriff's department says the fires started in ditches. No buildings were damaged, but a telephone pole may have burned, along with some hay bales.

Sword-Weilding Man Subdued with Beanbags

Rapid City police used a beanbag shotgun to subdue a man they say attacked them with ninja-type swords. Authorities say officers who responded to a disturbance call at a hotel late Thursday afternoon were confronted by a drunk man armed with two swords . An officer fired three beanbag rounds at the man's legs and the suspect collapsed. The 48-year-old man was arrested on a charge of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer.

DWU Students Charged with Holiday Burglaries

Four Dakota Wesleyan students, three of them athletes, are behind bars after being arrested. Mitchell police believe they are behind a string of burglaries committed on campus. Vincent Piercefield, Darius Lawson, Roscoe Lee and John Jones all face multiple charges. Mitchell police say it started last Friday over Thanksgiving break when they received the first report of a burglary after a student returned to his dorm. The four men are accused of breaking into the dorm rooms of fellow students and taking a number of different items.

Corps Plan Met with Dismay

Flood-weary residents are expressing dismay about a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plan to bump up Missouri River releases to flush sediment out of Lewis and Clark Lake. About 200 people from as far away as Omaha attended the meeting this week in which the corps discussed its sediment study. Corps hydrologic engineering branch chief John Remus says the sediment study was not connected to this summer's flooding, and the agency didn't have the opportunity to take advantage of the historic releases to lower the lake.

SF UIrbanm Agriculture Issues

Chickens and goats you expect on a farm, but inside the city of Sioux Falls? KELO reports the city's been getting complaints some people have been raising livestock in their backyards. The city's put together an urban agricultural task force to take a look and see if things are getting out of hand. The current ordinance says you can keep animals as long as they're not objectionable to your neighbors or for commercial purposes.

SF Low Income Housing Program Gets Bank Grant

Wells Fargo's given Sioux Falls a $75,000 grant, based on the city's investment in low-income housing. According to the Argus Leader, the grants were awarded nationally to 52 government entities and nonprofits with successful histories of building and renovating housing for low- to moderate-income households. The city says its Affordable Housing Division programs will use the grant to stabilize and revitalize core neighborhoods.

Firefighter Injured

A Rapid City firefighter suffered minor burns and bruises attempting to stop a minivan that caught fire and then began rolling downhill. Fire Lt. Brent Long says the firefighter jumped into the burning van as it was rolling downhill and unsuccessfully tried to stop it. He bailed out before the van struck an SUV that was passing by and then a parked truck. He's expected to be OK.

3 Fail Liquor Check

Three businesses failed a liquor sting conducted by Sioux Falls Police on Wednesday and sold to a person under the age of 21.
The compliance check included 29 off-sale alcohol establishments throughout the city. The businesses that failed the check included Hy Vee on East 57th Street, Andy's on South Cleveland Avenue and Kum N Go on East 26th Street.

Bike Trail Open

Runge Enterprises has finished work on the levee system from 41st Street north to Sherman Park on the east side of the Big Sioux River, allowing the reopening of the Bike Trail. This will open up 1.5 miles of trail and provide approximately 8 miles of unobstructed trail on the south and west sides of the city.

Bill Keitel

Bill Keitel will perform at the Old Courthouse Museum Winter Concert Series on Friday, December 9th. The concert will be held in the historic courtroom of the Old Courthouse Museum from noon to 1 p.m. Admission is free, bring your lunch or purchase one Kaladi’s.
Bill Keitel arrives with a resonator guitar, resophonic lap style guitar and a charango, a South American instrument made from an armadillo.

Tobacco-Free Kids

The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids released a report today revealing how much of the State Tobacco Settlement money is being spent on tobacco use prevention. Our Upper Midwest rankings range from 2nd in the nation to 33rd in the nation with as little as .7% of the state tobacco funds being spent on tobacco prevention programs to as much as 14.2% (still a small number). You’ll recall, the major reason the state receives money from tobacco companies is to compensate for the healthcare expenditures (more than $96 billion nationwide) that tobacco use causes the state.