Judge Asked to Toss Tribal Suit Over Beer Sales

Beer companies, distributors, and retailers have asked a judge to toss a $500-million lawsuit brought against therm by the Oglala Sioux Tribe, which is in charge of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. They claim four beer stores in the town of Whiteclay, Nebraska sold to its members, knowing they'd bring it back to the dry reservation. According to KDLT, 11-people live in Whiteclay and last year they sold an estimated 4.3-million 12-ounce cans of beer last year. .

60th Street Construction Work's Started

Construction's started on 60th Street from Oakland Drive to Southwind Avenue. Expect delays as the streets been shut down to through traffic while crews work on installing a water main, make sewer repairs, curb and gutter placement, sidewalk construction, asphalt paving and sod placement. The streets are anticipated to be reopened to traffic by June 12. Drivers are urged to use caution in this area.

SF State of the City Address Thursday

Mayor Mike Huether's 2012 State of the City address to the Sioux Falls City Council and city residents is Thursday afternoon at 1:30 at the Carnegie Town
Hall Council Chambers located at 235 West Tenth Street. You'll be able to see it streamed live at www.siouxfalls.org and on the CityLink cable channel.

Civil Rights Conference in SF

The U.S. Attorney's Office is hosting a civil rights conference in Sioux Falls this afternoon. Speakers include assistant attorney general Tom Perez of the U.S. Justice Department's civil rights division and Judy Shepard, the president and co-founder of the Matthew Shepard Foundation. Topics include the rights of persons with disabilities, human trafficking and child exploitation, bullying and discrimination in schools and police and the community.

Vigil for Slain Woman

Hundreds of people gathered in the Walmart parking lot in Rapid City for a candlelight vigil to remember a woman who was killed there. Family and friends of 30-year-old Morgan Myers gathered Sunday night after a Facebook campaign organized by two local women. Myers who was pregnant with her fifth child, was stabbed to death last Thursday. The man accused of killing her 30-year-old Michael Young, is in the hospital after allegedly stabbing himself

Free Dump

Rural residents of Minnehaha County filled several dumpsters with waste on Saturday, all for free. The Minnehaha County Planning Department hosted two County Clean-up Events, letting people - by invitation only - drop off trash including furniture, metal, appliances, tires, yard waste, and other items. The event comes as part of a grant from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The grant allows the county to hold approximately 30 of these clean-up events over the next two years.

Teen Dies In Crash

A South Dakota teen is dead after crashing their vehicle on Highway 18 Saturday afternoon. The South Dakota Highway Patrol says it happened just after 4 p.m. just east of the intersection of 466th Avenue about six miles east of Davis. The patrol says 19-year-old Courtney Rothschadl of Viborg was driving west on 18 when she lost control of the car and rolled the vehicle. Rothschadl was ejected from the car and was pronounced dead. She was not wearing a seatbelt.

Brookings Recycle

The city of Brookings is planning to expand curbside recycling program. They'll do it by providing residents large new containers for recyclable items. City solid waste manager Todd Langland says it will cost about $225,000 to buy 3,200 blue-and-yellow containers. The city is applying for a state grant to pay half the cost. Brookings residents will be able to dump recyclables into the containers. They can be lifted and dumped by city trucks equipped with mechanical arms. The material will be sorted later.

What's Should Brandon Charge for a Liquor License

The price of a city-issued liquor license in Brandon's probably going to be going up. It's $8,000 for a license now. The Brandon Valley Challenger reports other cities are charging a lot more. In Aberdeen, it's $150,000, Mitchell's just went up to $190,000. The council discussion on license pricing expected to come up at their next meeting May 7th. A survey's being done to find out what license costs are in communities is similar size statewide.

SD National Guard Soldiers Returning

The neighboring cities of Pierre and Fort Pierre are preparing for the return of South Dakota National Guard soldiers from Afghanistan. Members of the 200th Engineering Company are to come home the second week of May. The 200th is based in Pierre with detachments in Mobridge and Chamberlain. It has about 180 soldiers. They deployed last May for a yearlong mission of bridge work.

Trial Set for Boe

A Pierre man charged with attempted murder is to stand trial in late summer. The trial for 32-year-old for Derek Boe has been scheduled to begin Aug. 8. Boe is accused of shooting out the window of a vehicle occupied by a 24-year-old woman on a Hughes County road in late January.

Woman Heard Voices

A Brandon woman who had checked herself into the VA Hospital’s mental health ward told an investigator that “voices” insisted she kill a fellow patient. Jean Rollinger, 63, made her first court appearance yesterday morning in the attempted murder of a 63-year-old man from North Mankato, Minn. Rollinger was living at the Helping Hand Assisted Living center in Brandon last month when she started hearing voices.

Western Avenue Work

Beginning on Monday, April 30, 2012, construction crews will begin making repairs to a box culvert drainage structure under Western Avenue approximately one-fourth mile south of 57th Street. The northbound through traffic lane will be closed while this work is taking place. Northbound traffic on Western Avenue will be diverted to the center turn lane while this work is taking place. At least one lane of traffic will be maintained in each direction at all times.
The work in this area is expected to be completed by May 4. Motorists are encouraged to exercise caution when driving in this area.

Thune Fights Ag Labor Rule

Senator John Thune, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today said the Obama Administration’s announcement that it will withdraw its proposed Department of Labor (DOL) rule that would prevent youth from participating in many commonplace work activities on family farms is a victory in the war against America’s heartland, but said he would not stop fighting until the entire proposed rule is completely put to rest.

Brandon Woman Charged W/Attempted Murder at VA Hospital

63-year old Jean Rollinger's been indicted by a federal grand jury for attempted murder. The Brandon Valley Challenger reports she allegedly tried to smother a man, Leroy Deling, in the Sioux Falls VA hospital. According to the Argus Leader, Rollinger told investigators 'voices' told her to do it. She appeared in federal court today. The crime has a maximum sentence of 20-years in federal prison.

Story Blogged at 04-26-12 16:49 by djennings

Woman Indicted for Attempted Murder at SF VA Hospital

63-year old Jean Rollinger's been indicted by a federal grand jury for attempted murder. The Brandon Valley Challenger reports she allegedly tried to smother a man, Leroy Deling, in the Sioux Falls VA hospital. It's not known if Rollinger's been arrested. The crime has a maximum sentence of 20-years in federal prison.

NPS Gets Closer to First tribal National Park

The National Park Service and the Interior Department have released the final version of a general management plan that creating the nation's first tribal national park. It gives management authority of the South Unit of Badlands National Park to the Oglala Lakota tribe. KDLT reports the land was taken from the tribe by the federal government in the 1940's for a practice bombing range. Congress still has to approve the plan.

Bike Racks in Pierre

Downtown Pierre is getting bike racks. Members of the Historic Pierre Street Association and city officials unveiled the new iron racks with a historic design. Eighteen bike racks are being interspersed on sidewalks and bump out nodes on Upper Pierre Street from Capital Avenue south to Dakota Avenue.

Bow Hunting Licenses

North Dakota's Game and Fish Department says all of the state's nonresident any-deer bow hunting licenses have been issued through a lottery drawing. The licenses are good for either white-tailed or mule deer. Just under 700 licenses were made available this year.

Grain elevator fire

Miller firefighters are still monitoring a blaze that destroyed a grain elevator along Highway 45 on Wednesday night. There were no injuries. Officer Frank Blair said the fire started at 11 pm Wednesday and approximately 30 to 40 people were evacuated from their homes. Residents were able to return to their homes shortly after 3 am.

Railroad Switching Yard May Be a No Go

The Sioux Falls Railroad Switching Yard project looks like it may be derailing! There were several citizens on hand to hear Sioux Falls Mayor Mike Huether address the city council yesterday to unveil their findings from the meeting in Minneapolis with Burlington Northern Santa Fe which had a few surprises.







The Railroad would like to see the switching yard moved south of Sioux Falls rather than between Sioux Falls and Brandon. The railroad is also against the addition of a Y bridge at Falls park.







The project is still being pursued at this time, the city is working on options to fit everyone’s needs. Mayor Huether was visibly disappointed by the findings. The full meeting 90 minute audio file is available to listen to at MySunnyRadio.com

SF PD Take Part in Drug take Back

If you've got old or unused prescription drugs in your medicine cabinet, there's an event Saturday that could get them out of your home. Sioux Falls Police are taking part in a drug take back from 10a.m. to 2p.m. KELO reports you can drop them off at the front desk of the Law Enforcement Center, with no questions asked, making sure they don't get into the wrong hands. The Law Enforcement Center's at 320 W. 4th Street.

Connie Hirsch to be Sentenced in May for Husband's Murder

May 17th's the date a judge will sentence 49-year old Connie Hirsch of Blunt. She pleaded guilty to first degree manslaughter for the shooting death of her 65-year old husband Jerold Hirsch in 2010 in Pierre. Under a plea agreement, prosecutors dropped a first degree murder charge and are recommending that the judge not sentence her to more than 20-years in prison.

Sobreity Checkpoints

The South Dakota Highway Patrol has scheduled sobriety checkpoints next month in several counties. The Highway Patrol says it will conduct checks in Brown, Butte, Clay, Codington, Custer, Davison, Day, Fall River and Hughes counties.

Kingswood Rummage Sale

Thousands of people from Sioux Falls and the surrounding area are lokking for and getting great deals as the Kingswood Rummage sale takes place. The sale is going on all week, and this year, officials said there are more residents selling items, than ever before. Last year there were 298 registered rummages and this year there are 327. The rummage sale lasts through Saturday at 5p.m.

Pinned In

A 39-year-old northwest Iowa man has been hospitalized after being pinned between two pieces of equipment in a farm field. Authorities say Chad Gosch was taken with non-life-threatening injuries to a Sioux City hospital on Monday. Plymouth County sheriff's deputies say Gosch was pinned between a tanker truck and a sprayer unit in a field near Akron.

Rape Sentence

A Sioux Falls man convicted of raping two young girls learns he will spend decades behind bars. On Tuesday, a judge sentenced 29-year old Kermit Myers to 80 years in prison. It was an emotional day in court as many of the victim’s family members came forward to speak, but perhaps the biggest impact was made when one of the young victims entered the courtroom and addressed the man who had betrayed her trust.

The Big Squeeze

The Big Squeeze, a monthlong project to encourage area residents to check their blood pressure, kicks off with a press conference at 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday, May 1, 2012, at Fire Station No. 3, 2820 South Minnesota Avenue (37th Street and Minnesota Avenue).
“High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a serious health concern,” says
Dr. Paul Amundson, Chief Medical Officer for DAKOTACARE. “It is often called ‘the
silent killer’ because high blood pressure often comes with no symptoms. In fact, an
estimated 22 million people in our country have high blood pressure and are not being
treated for it, which means people of all ages need to know their numbers.”

Council Working Session

The Sioux Falls City Council will be holding a Council Working Session today at 3 at Carnegie Town Hall. Items on the agenda include open discussion on the Railroad Relocation Project.

SF City Council Changes Meeting Date

Sioux Falls City Council's changing its meeting dates from Mondays to Tuesdays starting May 1. KSFY reports it will allow the ability add items for the agenda. That can be an issue during construction season when city staff have to finalize agreements with contractors and vendors. Changes to Joint City Council and Minnehaha County and Lincoln County Meetings will be announced at a later date.

Huron Bar Owner Wants Change of Venue for RapeTrial

The attorney for El Cuervo owner Werner Fajardo, has asked a judge to move his trial out of Huron because they may not be able to find an impartial jury. During a court hearing, Carmen Means says many Huron residents are angry about the influx of Hispanic and Asian residents. KDLT reports the 35-year old's charged with serving a 12-year-old and two 14-year-olds alcohol, then raping them. He's pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors say an impartial jury shouldn't be a problem.

JSAP in Sioux Falls Tomorrow

The Department of Labor and Regulation has a Job Search Assistance Program tomorrow from 8:30a.m. to 3p.m. at 811 E. 10th St in Sioux Falls. JSAP's designed to help and train job seekers on how to find a job. Some pf the items in the program are networking, the hidden job market, resumes, applications and proper interview techniques. It's free and open to everyone. If you want to go, register at 605-367-5300. More information's at www.sdjobs.org

Sign Plant Back Open

A South Dakota sign manufacturing company based in Watertown has restarted production at a Webster facility that had been shut down for two years. Prior to shutting down, the plant made church and school signs. It now produces custom-made, three-dimensional letters commonly used on the outside of buildings. The Webster plant now has 10 or more employees and plans to add another five.

Dial Wants Recount

Box Elder Mayor Al Dial is asking for a recount of the April 10 mayoral ballots. Dial lost to Ward 3 Councilman William Griffiths by 7 votes, or less than 2 percent of the total votes cast. Under state law, a margin of less than 2 percent gives the loser the right to request a recount. Dial lost to Griffiths 251-244.

Avera McKennan to pay more than $70,000 in back wages

Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center in Sioux Falls has agreed to pay $70,157 in back wages to 487 current and former employees at 12 of its health care facilities after an investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division found employees were not compensated correctly for work breaks, in violation of the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Investigators found that Avera McKennan deducted time from employees’ hours for meal and rest breaks that were less than 30 minutes in duration.

Sioux River South Sanitary Interceptor Sewer Replacement Project

Beginning tomorrow, construction of the Sioux River South Sanitary Interceptor Sewer Replacement Project will require the closure of the bike trail from South Minnesota Avenue to the Tomar Park river crossing bridge. An alternate on-street and sidewalk route will be available during the construction and can be found at www.siouxfalls.org/parks/bike.

Lions Club Honors Youth Today

The Sioux Falls Downtown Lions Club will host a celebration honoring youth for volunteerism from 11:45 am to 1 pm at the Downtown Holiday Inn today. 96 students will be celebrated for their volunteer efforts. The students are all members of the Serve and Learn Student Association (SALSA), a program of the Helpline Center. SALSA’s mission is to make a difference in our community through the volunteer efforts of high school students.

Dell Rapids Park Will Close for Quarry Days Event

Due to problems during last years' Quarry Days event, Dell Rapids City Council's closing the city campground by the baseball field from Thursday, June 21, to Monday, June 25. After police responses to the campground during last years event to deal with noise and intoxicated young people. The Dell Rapids Tribune reports the council decided closing the campground would make sense this year.

Social Services Help Available Tomorrow

If you need help with financial help from the state, benefits Specialists from the Department of Social Services' Division of Economic Assistance will be available tomorrow at several offices around the state, including Flandreau from 8:30a.m. to 5p.m., and Canton from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Minnehaha County Sheriff Going After Delinquent Mobile Homeowners

If you own a mobile home in Minnehaha County, and aren't up to date on your taxes, you could lose your home. KELO reports the sheriff's office will soon be posting notices on about 300 mobile homes under a tax distress warrant. First on the list are owners who haven't made arrangements with the county treasurer or sheriff to pay what they owe. If you're in that category, immediately contact the Sheriff's Office Civil Section at 605-367-4300.

Child Succumbs to Injuries

A 3-year-old boy has died from smoke inhalation after a house fire in Mitchell. Jaxon Sehnert died Saturday. Officials say the boy and his 6-year-old brother were airlifted to Sioux Falls
hospitals after suffering smoke inhalation in the Friday night fire. The boys' mother also was hospitalized but has been released.

Wind Turbine

A wind turbine near Porcupine is being rebuilt to power a radio station on the Pine Ridge reservation. The wind turbine that was supposed to power the KILI radio station near Porcupine but broke down shortly after it was built in 2008. Officials say it should be rebuilt and running again by the end of the summer.

Statewide Tornado Drill

- A statewide tornado drill is slated for South Dakota on Wednesday morning. Tornado sirens will be sounded during the drill, and the Emergency Alert System will activate, taking over local television and radio broadcasts with warnings. Officials say local emergency response agencies and schools might conduct exercises and drills during the tornado alert.

East 10th Street

Beginning Tuesday, April 24, 2012, concrete repairs on East 10th Street will move back to the west, for repairs in the eastbound lanes, from Franklin Avenue to just short of Fairfax Avenue. The Fairfax Avenue intersection will be opened up to traffic while the Franklin Avenue intersection will be partially closed to turning traffic. Lanes will be closed for the repairs but East 10th Street traffic will be maintained in both directions at all times.
Traffic delays are to be expected. Motorists are urged to use caution in the construction areas and may wish to consider alternate routes. The first phase of work is expected to be May 18th, with full project completion by August 3, 2012.

Good Samaritan Society-Sioux Falls

Good Samaritan Society-Sioux Falls needs help with a gardening project, creating beautiful butterfly flower gardens for resident enjoyment and providing them with an area to enjoy nature. This project requires 10 to 15 individuals or a large group to assist the Activity Director with cleaning up the garden and planting flowers on May 5 from 1 pm to 4 pm.

Operation Beauty – May 4 through 6, is a great opportunity for young girls to help discover who they are and to re-enforce healthy, uplifting ideas and life choices. Volunteers are needed as group leaders, for set up, at the banquet, behind the scenes and more. This takes place at the YMCA.

Absentee Boting Starts for June Primary

Absentee voting's underway for South Dakota's June 5 Republican and Democratic primaries. According to KELO, state officials expect only about 11% of the voter of the turnout from the 2010 primary election absentee vote. With Mitt Romney closing in on the GOP nomination, there man not be as much interest. There's also be a Democratic primary for U.S. House, and several legislative primary races for both parties that may get more interest.

Tea FD Treasurer Arrested for Alleged Embezzlement

The former treasurer of the Tea Fire Department surrendered to police last night on an aggravated grand theft charge in the alleged embezzlement of $170,000 from the volunteer agency over two years. 52-year old Denae Baustian was indicted this week, and if convicted, she faces a maximum 15-years in prison. Baustian's been with the department since 2007, and became treasurer in 2009.

Midwest Economy

Higher fuel prices may be applying brakes to the economy in rural areas of 10 Midwest and Plains states. A monthly survey index of rural bankers dropped to 57.1 in April from 59.8 in March. Organizers of the Rural Mainstreet Index survey say any score above 50 suggests the economy will grow.

Veteran Fraud Payments

A Rapid City woman has been convicted on federal charges related to illegally taking veterans' assistance payments. U.S. Attorney Brendan Johnson says a jury convicted 69-year-old Patricia Maki of theft of government property, providing a fictitious name and address to the U.S. Postal Service and fraudulent acceptance of veterans' payments.

Teen Relationship Charges

A former sheriff's deputy from Minnesota found out on Thursday he will be facing time in jail. 28-year-old Kyle Kreun pleaded guilty to neglect or endangerment of a child and contributing to the deliquency of a minor. Kreun entered the guilty plea as part of a plea agreement.
The charges were filed after it was discovered he was involved in a relationship with a teenage girl.

Boy Hurt in Farm Accident

A 12-year-old boy will be ok after being injured while loading hogs into a trailer in northwest Iowa. Sioux County Sheriff's Office spokesman Nate Huizenga says the accident occurred Monday night about 10 miles west of Sioux Center. Huizenga says Joshua Dragstra was loading the hogs into a trailer that was parked in a chute. The trailer's parking brake apparently didn't hold, allowing the trailer to roll into a gate, which swung around and hit the boy's head.

Pot Bust

State Attorney General Marty Jackley says a Massachusetts man has been sentenced to eight years in prison after being caught with nearly half a ton of marijuana in his pickup truck when he was pulled over.Donald McCormick, 40, of Ipswich, Mass., had been charged with several felonies. But he pleaded guilty last month to a single charge of possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.

1st Ave Ramp Automation Almost Done

After several months of headaches, conversion of the 1st Avenue Ramp in downtown to an automated-payment system's almost finished. KELO reports the change was meant to end the need for on-site workers, giving customers a credit card option along with cash, eliminating the need for a full-time attendant. The employees are still there keeping an eye on things. They're expected to be gone in the next couple of weeks.

Avera Ordered to Cough Up Back Pay

The Labor Department's ordered Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center in Sioux Falls to pay $70,000 in back pay to almost 500-current and ex employees who were never paid for break time taken at 12 facilities in the hospital system. The Argus Leader reports Avera shaved time from employee time sheets for some meals and breaks lasting under an hour. If they'd been counted, it would have meant paying overtime.

Parmelee Fire Station

Residents of the Rosebud Indian Reservation town of Parmelee have broken ground on a new fire station. The 50-foot-by-70-foot station will house the 20-member department, which serves a population of nearly 2,000. The nearest fire department is 21 miles away.

Chinese Businessmen to Tour SD

Gov. Dennis Daugaard says the state will soon host a group of Chinese business leaders who are interested in possible ventures in South Dakota. The visit comes a month after the governor was part of a trade mission to China last month to learn about export opportunities. The Chinese businessmen are expected to visit Yankton and Vermillion at the end of the month to learn about investment options in the state.

Charges Dropped in Child Abuse Case

Charges against an Aberdeen woman accused of child abuse have been dropped because prosecutors are concerned about evidence in the case. Forty-year-old Wendy Mette had pleaded not guilty to 11 counts abuse or neglect of a child. Beadle County state's attorney Michael Moore says the charges against Mette were brought in 2011 after three people who are now the subjects of a witness tampering investigation got involved in the abuse case.

Tick Diseases

A South Dakota Health Department official says people heading outdoors should protect themselves from ticks and the diseases they can carry. State Epidemiologist Lon Kightlinger says every year some South Dakotans are infected with tick-borne diseases that include tularemia, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease. He says South Dakota last year had four reported cases of Lyme disease, eight of tularemia and one of Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Brandon Pet Clinic

The City of from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 21 at the Brandon Valley Veterinary Clinic, 1000 E. Redwood Blvd. Shots for rabies, distemper, bordatella, lyme and other shots for dogs and cats will be given by Dr. Shanda Myers.
City animal tag licenses will also be sold for $2.

Sex Offender Refuses to Register

A man who moved to Sioux Falls is behind bars now because he refused to register as a sex offender. 48-year old Tyrone Jones of New Orleans had three days to register once he moved here, but he didn't. When contacted by police on routine patrol, he told them he didn't think he needed to register. A check by officers determined he did. KSFY says Jones told the officers he'd rather go to jail than register. He got his wish.

Harrisburg Man Sentenced in Deadly Car Crash

A 29-year-old Harrisburg man's been sentenced to 180-days in prison for a traffic accident last June that killed Stacey Brown at 276th Street and Highway 11. 29-year old Brian Hoogendoorn pleaded guilty in February to 2nd degree manslaughter. He'd been drinking and doing about 80, when he t-boned Browns car. Hoogendoorn's on probation for 10-years and his license suspended for 10-years.

Crops Progress

Crop seeding remains well ahead of the average pace in the Dakotas despite rainy weather over the past week. The Agriculture Department says 83 percent of the spring wheat crop is planted in South Dakota, compared to 13 percent on average. The department says the recent rains also have improved the condition of the winter wheat crop in South Dakota.

Compensation for couple hit in Mitchell

A jury in Mitchell will determine the amount of compensation for a Kansas couple hit by a city bus while they navigated a downtown crosswalk. Richard and Mary Russell were hit near the Corn Palace tourist attraction in June 2009. The bus driver later pleaded guilty to misdemeanor careless driving and was fined about $100. The jury is expected to come up with a settlement figure at the end of the trial this week.

Threatening Letter

A South Dakota School of Mines and Technology student has been arrested after he left a threatening letter at the college. Rapid City police say 19-year-old Boyce Way of Mitchell was arrested fo making a terrorist threat. The felony charge carries up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. An employee at the school found the letter around 8 a.m. Tuesday, prompting school officials to postpone a design fair scheduled for the morning. School officials did not issue an evacuation order.

Lethal Injection Drugs Flap

Another federal agency is after South Dakota's lethal injection drugs. Last year the Drug Enforcment Agency ordered South Dakota to hand over its supply of drugs. Now the food and drug administration has issued a similar order. But South Dakota's Attorney General has no plans to hand over the drugs. The state and federal agencies are fighting over the state's supply of Sodium Thiopental; a quick acting barbiturate sometimes used as anesthesia and in higher doses lethal injections.

Drunk Driving Death Plea

A South Dakota man accused of causing a crash that killed a 9-year-old girl has pleaded not guilty. Michael Sedlmeier of Mitchell made a court appearance Tuesday on numerous charges including manslaughter, vehicular homicide and drunken driving

South Dakota Veterans Club

The University of South Dakota Veterans Club placed a flag in front of the schools Old Main building for each soldier killed in Afghanistan and Iraq. Tuesday, they added one more.
Each night this week the club will take part in a ceremony remembering those who paid the ultimate price for defending our freedom.

SD Asks Army Corps to Update Flood Modeling

Based on last years' flooding, South Dakota officials urged the Army Corps of Engineers to consider changing how it manages the Missouri River to reduce the chance of a repeat. At a meeting in Pierre, the Argus Leader reports the state asked the Corps to update how it prediction model for runoff, since it assumes last years weather patterns won't repeat.

Escape Thwarted

Authorities quickly apprehended an inmate who tried to leave a minimum-security federal prison camp in southeast South Dakota. David Wood left the Yankton Federal Prison Camp in a vehicle that was stopped within minutes. Wood was taken back into custody and the 21-year-old female driver from New Madrid, Mo., was arrested for aiding in the escape attempt.

Tuition increases

Tuition will raise 6.5% next school year for students at South Dakota public universities leaving undergrads worried about the future. The almost $500 extra per year spent on tuition will effect how students budget their finances. Aubree Johnson, an SDSU Sophomore says “Kids that go to in-state schools, usually rely on it being cheaper. So, if it’s going to cost the same as going out of state, I would have done that,”

Elk Poachers Sought

The illegal killing of an elk west of Hot Springs has Game, Fish and Parks conservation officers looking for the person responsible. Officer D.J. Schroeder says a landowner along U.S. Highway 18 found the carcass late last week. Authorities determined it had been shot with a high-caliber rifle. Schroeder says authorities are pursuing a couple of leads and also asking the public for help. People with information might be eligible for a reward.

Drug Bust

Three people were arrested for possessing the makings of a meth lab near rural Valley Springs. The Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office says Twenty-six-year-old Elizabeth Feekes, 26-year-old Reynaldo Ortega and 24-year-old Joshua Reinke were arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, manufacturing a controlled substance and maintaining a residence where controlled drugs or substances are used and sold.

South Dakota State Fair Lee Brice

South Dakota State Fair officials announce the addition of singer Lee Brice to the 2012 South Dakota State Fair Grandstand lineup as an opener for headliner Chris Young on Sunday, Sept. 2. Brice’s unique taste in music and artists who influenced him have made him a great artist. With inspiration from not only country stars like Garth Brooks and Hank Williams Jr., but musical successes like Coldplay, 3 Doors Down and Tom Petty, everyone is sure to find something about Brice that appeals to them.

Central States Coming to Hartford

Arkansas-based Central States Manufacturing, maker and distributor of metal building products, plans to expand its operations to Hartford. It's expected to lead to 40-new jobs over the next 3-years. The Hartford location will be the sixth company expansion since opening its doors in 1988. The decision to locate in Hartford was made after the company did a multi-state search for a location in the northern Great Plains.

Fire Leads to Discovery of Alleged Meth Lab

A Friday fire at a home near Valley Springs led to three arrests. 26-year old Elizabeth Feekes, 26-year old Reynaldo Ortega, and 24-year old Joshua Reinke are charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, manufacturing a controlled substance and maintaining a residence where controlled drugs or substances are used and sold. Firefighters reported finding items consistent with a meth lab.

Walk-up Window for Brookings Detention Center Breathalyser Testing

The Brookings County Detention Center's getting a walk up window to speed up the process of giving Breathalyzer tests. Sheriff Marty Stanwick says corrections officers have as many as 40 people coming to the detention center twice a day to for their required breathalyser test as part of the 24/7 Sobriety Program.

Elk Killing Investigated

South Dakota wildlife officials are investigating the illegal killing of an elk west of Hot Springs. A landowner along U.S. Highway 18 found the carcass late last week. Authorities determined it had been shot with a high-caliber rifle. Authorities are pursuing a couple of leads and also asking the public for help

Brandon Citywide Rummage Sales

Registrations are now be accepted online for the Brandon Citywide Rummage Sales, scheduled for May 10-12.
Register online at www.BrandonRummages.com or pick up a mail in form at the Sunshne Foods customer service counter. The deadline to register is May 2.

Church Breaks Ground

Members of Good News Church officially started their $824,000.00 addition project Sunday.
The project was funded solely by church donations.
Church officials said the addition will be for the adults to hang out and will provide more room for the children's facilities that are in place right now.

Central States Manufacturing

Arkansas-based Central States Manufacturing, a manufacturer and distributor of metal building products, plans to expand its operations to Hartford, S.D.
The expansion will create up to 40 jobs in the next three years, making Central States Manufacturing the largest private employer in Hartford.
The company plans to construct a 40,000-square-foot manufacturing facility on a 10-acre plot.

Talk of Creating Sioux Falls Public Library System Foundation

Sioux Falls' public library system supporters are considering creating a non-profit to make it easier for library lovers to help make sure the system has the funds it needs to operate. KDLT reports the foundation could help the library, which is supported by the city and Minnehaha COunty to the tune of $6-million/year, expand its services. want to set up a nonprofit foundation to support its operations.

Black Hills Speedway Dispute

A money dispute could delay the race season at the Black Hills Speedway. Shane Liebig operates the half-mile oval track. He is suing the speedway's former owners. Liebig says Ed and Lori Kirchoff of Gillette, Wyo., provided the money for him to buy the track at auction two years ago. The Kirchoffs say Liebig is behind in his payments, but Liebig's lawsuit disputes that. Ed Kirchoff says that the track's racing season will start on time under new management. The track's website says the first races are May 4.

Speedy Execution Denied

The South Dakota Supreme Court has denied an inmate's request to be executed quickly for the murder of a prison guard. Eric Robert pleaded guilty to killing prison guard Ronald Johnson during a failed escape attempt last April. Robert asked to be executed. A judge sentenced him to death last fall and scheduled his execution for May.

Postal

A group of local mail carriers rallied yesterday in front of senator Thune's Office. They hoped to share their feelings about senate bill 1789 or the 21st Century Postal Service Act. Some postal workers feel the government is letting them down. And if it weren’t for certain federal restrictions the postal system would be profitable.

1st annual Classic Soccer Tournament

The Brandon Area Soccer Association will host the 1st annual Classic Soccer Tournament May 11-13 at McHardy Park Soccer Complex in Brandon. The tournament will feature divisions for U8-U14 boys and girls, recreational. Entry fees are: U8- $100; U10 - $125; U12-U14 - $160. Registration deadline is May 1.

Training Facility Named in Honor of Fallen Corrections Officer

The State Corrections Department's decided to rename its training academy in honor of Ronald Johnson. He was a corrections officer killed a year ago today on his 63rd birthday. Johnson was working alone, when KSFY reports two inmates attacked him with a pipe and left him to die.
Three inmates were charged in his death, two have been sentenced to death, the third to life.

Thiune and Noem Move to Get Forest Service Moving Faster on Pine Beetle

Sen. John Thune and Rep. Kristi Noem are introducing a bill giving the U.S. Forest Service a green light to move faster mapping out a battle plan for the mountain pine beetle infestation in the Black Hills. KDLT reports the bill would let the Forest Service to declare emergencies in some areas to speed up environmental reviews and begin cutting or spraying trees, or doing burns.

No Water Permit

A judge threw out a state board's decision to give a water permit to a large new dairy operation in southeastern South Dakota. The proposed Hanson County Dairy would use an estimated 720,000 gallons of water a day. A number of county residents are protesting the operation. Now the water board will have to look at the issue again, or appeal the ruling to the South Dakota Supreme Court.

Steak House Arson

A couple is accused of torching their own South Dakota steakhouse. Charles and Kim Johnson are charged with felony arson and reckless burning. They formerly owned Libby's Steakhouse in downtown Springfield, in South Dakota's southeastern corner. They're accused of setting the restaurant on fire in October 2010. The steakhouse and another business were destroyed and a third business was damaged.

Rape in Belle Fourche

Rersidents are in shock as police in Belle Fourche are looking for a man who they say broke into a home and raped a woman. The sexual assault happened in a neighborhood on the north side of town. Authorities say the rape happened on Tuesday morning around 5:30. But news of the attack wasn't made public until Wednesday afternoon. The suspect is described as a white man, between 5' 8" and 6" tall with a stocky build. It's likely that he has fresh scratches on his face and hands.

Assualt Charges

A dishwasher from Mr. Goodcents is recovering after allegedly being beat by his manager's husband. Robert Lee Barngrover, 57, of Sioux Falls is charged with aggravated assault. The incident happened at the W. 41st Street location in Sioux Falls after 10:00 pm Tuesday. The victim says Barngrover showed up and accused him of spreading lies of infidelity about his wife, who is the restaurant's manager.

Voter Turnout

Electronic poll books were used again in the Sioux Falls city election allowing any resident to vote at any of the cities 12 voting centers.“For the most part everyone was pretty excited that they were able to cast their ballots at any location across the city,” said South Dakota Secretary of State Jason Gant. Despite a low voter turnout of just over 14%, some locations were extremely busy.

Kid's Activity Day

The Old Courthouse Museum will host Kid's Activity Day on Thursday, April 19th. The theme for April is April Showers! 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.
Kid's 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 preschool through 3rd grade are invited to participate. Please register by calling (605) 367-4210 ext. 0.

Lawn Watering Schedule

The City of Sioux Falls wants to remind all citizens and business owners of the current lawn watering schedule. Due to the early warm weather and drier than normal conditions, water use has started to rise earlier than normal. Please follow the proper lawn watering guidelines as required by City ordinance:
• Consumers having even-numbered addresses may water their lawns on even-numbered calendar dates, and consumers having odd-numbered addresses may water their lawns on odd-numbered calendar dates.
• Lawn watering is prohibited between the hours of 12 noon and 5 p.m. on all days for everyone.
• These restrictions are in effect year-round.

Judge Upholds Cut in Annual Inflation Hike for Retirees

A South Dakota judge's agreed with the legislature's decision to cut the annual inflation increase in benefits for retirees in the state's public retirement system. The economic downturn cut the value of the South Dakota Retirement System's assets. KDLT reports lawmakers cut the hike from 3.1% to 2.1% over the last 2-years. The court found there was no contract guaranteeing the 3.1% raise.

Phone Service Taxes Going Up

South Dakota's Department of Revenue says the state's emergency service tax on phone service will be changing. The agency says it's doing an information campaign to tell phone and wireless companies about the changes. For individual phone service lines, the charge is going up to $1.25 per month, starting July 1. The charge affects all cell phone and land line numbers.

Stolen Money Bags

Police say a Sioux Falls thrift store lost a "large sum of money" after someone took the store's bank deposit. Officers say the money was taken from the Volunteers of America store on North Nesmith Avenue. Officials with VOA say a manager prepared the bank bags to be taken to the bank by a courier, but before the courier arrived, someone went behind the store's counter and took the money.

Elex Results

Four people were in the race for the two open school board seats Tuesday in Sioux Falls.
Kate Parker won with almost 33% of the votes and Todd Thoelke finished second with around 29%.
Kermit Staggers has defeated De Knudson and Cory Buttemeier in the Sioux Falls City Council at-large race with 50.4 percent of the vote. Greg Jamison won in the Southwest District with 65.4 percent of the vote. In the Northeast District, Kenny Anderson, Jr. defeated Nicole Wilson. Voters defeated Charter Amendment A, but approved Charter Amendment B and Charter Amendment C.

Senator John Thune to Address Graduate Students

Senator John Thune will address graduate students in a University of Sioux Falls (USF) health care systems class tyonight. He'll be speaking at the USF Health Care Systems MBA Class 6:00 PM in the USF – Cleveland Building Room 207

Old Courthouse Museum Clock Repair

The iconic clock at the top of the Old Courthouse Museum has been temporarily turned off while the Siouxland Heritage Museums wait for it to be repaired. Originally installed in 1893, the #3 Striker E. Howard Tower Clock has been losing time in recent weeks indicating a malfunction and it has been turned off to avoid any further damage. The unexpected repairs have not been included in the museums budget, but museum director Bill Hoskins is hoping to acquire the necessary funds for the repairs.

Otter Tail Wants Rate Hike

Otter Tail Power's asked regulators for a rate hike to pay for reducing pollution at the Big Stone Power plant on the South Dakota-Minnesota border. Otter Tail, wants a 2% increase starting in October for pay for first year expenses. KDLT reports the eventual rate increase could hit 15% by the time construction is completed in 2016.

Sioux Falls Voting Issues

Several Sioux Falls residents ended up heading home today when the computers at Whittier place died. The Argus Leader reports Secretary of State Jason Gant was in town today monitoring voting, but wasn't aware of issues. He did say election workers should've offered voters provisional ballots. This is the 2nd election in South Dakota where they're using voting centers, 12 of them; and electronic poll books, which ensure no one votes more than once.

Warrant for Arrest of SD Man

A judge has issued a bench warrant for a South Dakota man accused of pimping after the man failed to show up in court. 35-year-old Jeramy Caron, of Summerset, was supposed to appear in court Monday on a dozen charges each of promoting prostitution and pimping. Caron is accused in South Dakota of bringing women from several states to work as prostitutes in Rapid City hotels. .

Teen Hurt in Fall

A Rapid City teenager was hospitalized with a broken leg over the weekend after falling nearly 100 feet off the cliff at Falling Rock. Officials did not immediately identify the 16-year-old boy or say what he was doing Saturday at the site west of Rapid City that is popular with climbers.

School Play by Play

The Sioux Falls School District is considering whether or not to charge various media for sports play-by-play rights. The decision would mean any radio station, television network or other media outlet would have to pay to broadcast games for the athletic teams within the district. The Sioux Falls School Board was scheduled to vote on the issue Monday night, but the decision was delayed until April 23.

Brandon Valley School Board Decides All Day Kindergarten Tonight

Brandon Valley's School Board meets tonight to decide whether or not there will be all day, every day kindergarten. The Brandon Valley Challenger reports the district has three sections of all day kindergarten at Fred Assam and Valley Springs, and 8-half day sessions at Brandon and Robert Bennis Elementary schools. The all day program costs $84,000. The meetings at 6:30 p.m. at Brandon Valley High School.

Woman Changes Plea Admits Stealing from Town

A 43-year-old woman's changed her mind and decided to plead guilty, to stealing money from the city of Storm Lake. KELO reports Lee Martin worked for the city for 21 years and was office manager for Storm Lake Public Safety when the thefts happened between December 2010 and November of last year. Martin didn't turn over close to $69,000 taken in for fines and fees for services. She'll be sentenced next month.

SD Child ID Program Saturday in Sioux Falls

A South Dakota Child Identification Program's this Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Old Courthouse Museum. in Sioux Falls. Most parents don't have the info that could help save their child's life in that situation. This free community event gives them a kit for their child including: fingerprints, dental imprint, DNA, photo, and video to use for identifications.

Jackrabbit Stampede

South Dakota State University is hosting the annual Jackrabbit Stampede this week. About 250 participants from 13 schools in the Great Plains region will take part in the rodeo events that start Thursday and last through Sunday. The Jackrabbit Stampede is called a double-header rodeo with two, two-day contests happening back to back. The competition starts at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Swiftel Center.

RC Teen Breaks Leg in Fall

A Rapid City teenager was hospitalized with a broken leg over the weekend after falling nearly 100 feet off the cliff at Falling Rock. Officials did not immediately identify the 16-year-old boy or say what he was doing Saturday at the site west of Rapid City that is popular with climbers. Some visitors say better signs would make the site safer.

Voting Success

Dozens of people showed up at the Minnehaha County Auditor’s office Saturday to cast their vote early for the upcoming city election on Tuesday.
Voters have the opportunity to choose two school board members, one at-large city council member, along with city council members for the southwest, northwest and northeast districts.

New Life Church Giving Out Gas Cards Sunday

Sioux Falls New Life Church is giving away a thousand dollars in free gas to those attending the 10a.m. and 12:30p.m. Easter Sunday services. A church spokesperson says the first 100-people will get a $10 gift card. KSFY reports the church gave away gas cards at a station last year, and they helped over 600-people.

SF PD Need Help Finding Missing Man

Sioux Falls Police need your help finding Peter Yien, who's been missing for more than a week. Authorities say the 30-year old was reported missing March 28th. KDLT reports relatives say he told them he was going camping from March 16th through the 25th. Yien last contacted his family March 19.
Police have asked that anyone who knows where Yien is contact them.

McGovern Released

Former South Dakota senator George McGovern has been released from a Florida hospital. McGovern's daughter has said her 89-year-old father was admitted to Flagler Hospital in St. Augustine on Tuesday for tests to determine why he was occasionally passing out and losing his ability to speak. McGovern splits his time between Florida and South Dakota and has been hospitalized several times in recent months.

Cause for Shelter Fire Determined

Investigators have determined that fluorescent lighting sparked a fire at an animal shelter in western South Dakota. The Wednesday blaze destroyed the nonprofit Battle Mountain Humane Society facility, killed a dozen dogs and displaced dozens more. Founder and caretaker Tonia Wagoner cut her hand helping animals escape and needed stitches.

West Farm Closing

The South Dakota Department of Corrections is closing West Farm. The juvenile facility near Souix Falls houses boys ages 14-17 as they transition between custody and home. It will close by June 1 in response to a declining number of juveniles in state custody. DOC Juvenile Services Director Doug Herrmann says the closing is planned to coincide with the end of the academic year. Boys who normally would go to West Farm now will go to foster care or the McCrossan Boys Ranch. West Farm could be used for a different kind of juvenile program in the future.

Shelter Fire Kills Several Pets

A Fire at the Battle Mountain Humane Society has destroyed the shelter north of Hot Springs, killing several animals and sending one person to the hospital for stitches.
The blaze happened Wednesday afternoon where the main caretaker lived in a small apartment attached to the lone building. Officials say as many as eight cats and dogs died in the fire and dozens more were displaced. Society board member Cheryl Fair tells KOTA-TV that facility founder and caretaker Tonia Wagoner cut her hand helping dogs escape and needed stitches.

McGovern Released from a Florida Hospital

Former South Dakota senator and Democratic presidential candidate George McGovern has been released from a Florida hospital. McGovern's daughter has said her 89-year-old father was admitted to Flagler Hospital in St. Augustine on Tuesday for tests to determine why he was occasionally passing out and losing his ability to speak.

All day kindergarten

All day kindergarten may be offered in Brandon, and if it happens, other grades would have to take a hit according to Superintendent Dave Pappone. That's what he told school board members last week. To switch to all day kindergarten throughout the district, there would be an initial cost to set up four additional classrooms. Furnishings and computers would cost $84,000, which would come out of the capital outlay fund, Pappone said.

Animal Shelter Fire

Fire has destroyed an animal shelter north of Hot Springs, killing several animals and sending one person to the hospital for stitches. The blaze happened Wednesday afternoon at the Battle Mountain Humane Society, where the main caretaker lived in a small apartment attached to the lone building. Officials say as many as eight cats and dogs died in the fire and dozens more were displaced.

Walmart Opposition

A proposed third Walmart on the southeast side of Sioux Falls was the main focus Wednesday night for the planning and zoning commission. There were many in opposition of the proposal that turned out for the hearing. Traffic, the environment and the proximity to Sioux Falls Christian were the main issues opponents had.

47th Annual Band Supper and Pops Concert

The Brandon Valley Band Parents present the 47th Annual Band Supper and Pops Concert, better known as the Turkey Supper, from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Saturday, April 14 at Brandon Valley High School. All proceeds from this annual fundraiser benefit the Brandon Valley band program. Tickets are available from any Brandon Valley band member or at the door. Ticket prices are $10 for adults $11 at the door. $6 for children ages 3 to 10 $6.50 at the door and children ages 2 and under are free.

April 2012 Volunteer of the Month

The Helpline Center and MetaBank congratulate Alice Sylliaasen on being named the April 2012 Volunteer of the Month. This is an area-wide award program sponsored by MetaBank. Alice was nominated by Sanford Health. Alice taught elementary education in Sioux Falls for 30 years and during that time helped her students to understand what volunteering was all about. When she retired in 1999, she immediately applied to volunteer at Sanford Medical Center.

South Dakota Child Identification Program

A South Dakota Child Identification Program will be held on Saturday, April 14th between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Old Courthouse Museum. On average in the United States, a child is reported missing every 43 seconds and most parents don’t have the proper items ready at a moment’s notice that may help save their child’s life. For this reason, this free community event is an opportunity for parents to acquire a kit for their child including: fingerprints, dental imprint, DNA, photo, and video to use for identification purposes. Sponsored by the Grand Lodge of South Dakota Ancient Free and Accepted Masons and Minnehaha Lodge number 5.

George McGovern in Florida Hospital

Former South Dakota Senator George McGovern's undergoing tests at a Florida hospital. A family spokesperson says he's being evaluated after having spells when he passes out and can't speak. They say he's resting comfortably. He was in the state last weekend for the annual McGovern Day, a fund raiser for the state's Democratic Party.

SF P and Z Hearing on Walmart Store Tonight

The Sioux Falls Planning Commission has a public hearing tonight on a proposed Walmart on the city's southeast side. The hearing starts at 7, at Carnegie Town Hall. Walmart want to rezone property at 69th Street and Cliff Avenue.

Story Blogged at 04-04-12 16:33 by djennings

Sioux Falls P and Z Walmart Hearing Tonight

The Sioux Falls Planning Commission has a public hearing tonight on a proposed Walmart on the city's southeast side. The hearing starts at 7, at Carnegie Town Hall. Walmart want to rezone property at 69th Street and Cliff Avenue.

Pierre Man Pleads Not Guilty to Rape and Kidnapping Charges

A Pierre man has pleaded not guilty to charges he kidnapped and raped an 18-year-old woman. 47-year old Antoine LaDeaux, Jr.'s scheduled for trial in July. Prosecutors tell KELO LaDeaux held a woman at his home on March 8th and forced her to have sex. LaDeaux's been charged as an habitual offender, which means the maximum sentence for each charge could be life in prison. He's being held on $15,000 bond.

Inmates Helping Fight Pine Beetles

A crew of state prison inmates is helping to fight the spread of mountain pine beetles in Custer State Park. The crew of seven minimum-security inmates has worked in the state park since January to cut down beetle-infested trees and cut them into two-foot sections. The process called cut and chunk kills the beetles and prevents them from attacking new trees in the summer.

Candidate Forum

Election Day is just a week away and Tuesday night candidates running for a seat on the Sioux Falls City Council tried to sway voters in their direction. During an open forum at Carnegie Town Hall, candidates were asked a number of different questions ranging from property taxes to recycling. And, when the topic shifted to the railroad relocation project the hopefuls weren’t shy about voicing their opinions.

Starlab Inflatable Planetarium

The Old Courthouse Museum will host Starlab Inflatable Planetarium on Monday, April 9th 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 5 only, 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.

Mayor Meeting

Mayor Mike Huether presented a letter to the members of the City Council that outlines the financial strength of Sioux Falls, the successes from 2011, and his hopes for the citizens in 2012. Mayor Huether will also be addressing the City Council and the citizens of Sioux Falls with the State of the City presentation on Thursday, May 3, 2012, at 1:30 p.m. at the Carnegie Town Hall, 235 West Tenth Street.

Drunk Driver Gets 10-years for Deadly DeSmet Crash

A judge has sentenced James Harris of Minnesota to 10-years in prison and $6,200 in restitution and fines for manslaughter in a drunk driving crash last September that killed 16-year old Zachary Eichsdtadt. Police say at the time of the crash, Harris had a BAC of .256. KDLT reports Harris must serve 5-years before he's eligible for parole, and when released, won't be eligible for a drivers' license for 10-years.

Two Men Busted For Overnight SF Casino Robbery

Sioux Falls Police have arrested two people wanted for an armed robbery last night at the Boxcars Casino on E. 10th Street. The suspects have been identified as 23-year-old Dustin Hockett and 21-year-old Manuel Torres. KDLT reports both have been charged with first degree robbery.

SF Switch Yard Options Limited

Sioux Falls Officials may have few options on moving the downtown switch yard. The Argus Leader reports BNSF says a new bridge over the Big Sioux wouldn't get trains to a switch yard northeast of the city. That leaves a second track parallel to the current one in the southeastern part of the city. The railroad also says rising train traffic will mean more than one extra train through the city a day.

Man Sentenced on Drug Charges

A Leola man accused of growing 500 marijuana plants has been sentenced to serve 10 years in prison and fined more than $2,000. 51-year-old Bruce Steiger pleaded guilty to drug charges involving marijuana and hallucinogenic mushrooms. He also is being required to surrender any firearms he owns and provide the names of his drug customers to authorities.

Changes Considered in In Home Day Care

Possible changes regarding in-home day care regulations are being considered by the Sioux Falls council members. The city health department says the intent is to strengthen the requirements for providers. One major change would require in-home day cares to purchase a minimum of $1 million of liability insurance. That could cost a provider anywhere between $400 and $1100 a year.

Head On Crash Kills One

A head-on collision near Rapid City has killed a Rapid City native and sent three others to the hospital. The South Dakota Highway Patrol says a Jeep crossed the centerline on a curve on Sheridan Lake Road on Sunday evening and crashed head-on into a pickup truck towing a boat. The driver of the Jeep, 31-year-old Vernon Dickenson, died at the scene.

Body of Missing Woman Found

Authorities in Yankton County have called off search efforts for a woman who was last seen Friday evening. 43-year-old Rita Kubal was found dead Monday morning in her vehicle on a farm between Tyndall and Scotland. A farmer found her body in vehicle in an abandoned garage and reported it to the Bon Homme County Sheriff.

Crash Kills One

One person is dead after a two-vehicle crash east of Madison on Monday.
The driver of a van died when his vehicle collided with a semi at the intersection of 457th Avenue and Highway 34 two miles east of Madison. The driver of the semi and two passengers in the van were not injured. Authorities say everyone was wearing seatbelts.

SD Woman Pleads to Health Care Fraud

The U.S. Attorney's office says a South Dakota woman's entered a guilty plea to a count of health care fraud. 32-year-old Tylese Rodriquez, also known as Tylese Marie Pearson, of Hudson tried to use false statements to get prescription pain medication under the control of her employer, Hudson Healthcare Center. Rodriquez faces a maximum 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

SF Man Busted for Possesing Child Porn

A Sioux Falls man's behind bars, after police say they found thousands of images of child porn on his computer. 52-year old David Smith was on the radar of investigators going back to February. They've charged smith with 25 counts of possessing child pornography. KSFY reports prosecutors say there's no sign Smith was making or distributing the porn.

EPA Moving on E15

The EPA's taken another step towards wide distribution of gasoline mixed with 15% ethanol by letting manufacturers to register as suppliers. E15 still has to clear federal tests and become a registered fuel in individual states. The folks who make Ethanol then have to talk petroleum marketers to sell it at gas stations. Most of the Ethanol sold is 10% ethanol, 90% gas. The new blend would only be used in vehicles made after 2001.

Fatal Crash near Rapid City

A head-on collision southwest of Rapid City has killed one person and sent three others to the hospital. The South Dakota Highway Patrol says a Jeep crossed the centerline on a road near Sheridan Lake on Sunday evening and crashed head-on into a pickup truck towing a boat. The driver of the Jeep died at the scene. No names have been released.

Embattled Player Takes Field

A Sioux Falls Storm player in trouble with the law stepped back out onto the field Sunday.
At the beginning of March Donta Moore, a defensive back for the storm, was charged with reckless discharge of a firearm, possession of a concealed weapon, and possession of marijuana paraphernalia; and it isn't the first incident to happen this year.
Todd Tryon, CEO and Owner of the Sioux Falls Storm, says Sunday's game was just like another season opener.

Major Crash injures One

A crash south of Baltic forced one woman to be air lifted on Sunday. Police say the woman was heading northbound when she lost control of her vehicle and rolled off the road. The crash happened near the intersection of 254th St. 472nd Ave. The woman was unconscious when crews reached her but did regain it before leaving the scene on the helicopter.

Warm Weather

A hot day for many Sunday as temperatures soared into the 90's in many locations, but the northeast struggled just to get into the 60's thanks to a little too much moisture. Plus the final numbers are in and March was the warmest on record for many cities in the Northern Plains,