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South Dakota offering millions in tech grants to nursing homes

Carrie Moritz
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South Dakota offering millions in tech grants to nursing homes

By Bart Pfankuch

South Dakota News Watch

To the uninitiated, taking a sick resident of a nursing home to a hospital or emergency room might not seem like a big deal.

But those trips can be brutal for elderly patients and facility staff – often requiring the hooking or unhooking of medical equipment, bundling of patients into warm clothes, helping them in their wheelchair or walker into a van and enduring wait times to see a nurse or doctor who doesn't always have access to their medical records.

Nurse and patient with Avel monitor
A patient sits with a practitioner who is using a remote health work station through the Avel eCare telemedicine system. (Photo: Courtesy Avel eCare)

"It’s not good for anyone to go to an emergency department but especially for the elderly population," said Josh Hofmeyer, CEO of Dow Rummel Village, a senior-living campus in Sioux Falls. "If we can avoid sending someone out (for medical care), it makes a big difference."

The best way to avoid stressful trips and provide more medical care within an elder care facility is through the use of telemedicine services. That's why Hofmeyer and others in the South Dakota long-term care industry are excited about two bills that passed in the 2024 legislative session and have since been signed by Gov. Kristi Noem.

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Senate Bill 209 will offer $5 million in grants to long-term care facilities for implementation or expansion of telehealth services. That measure was funded through American Rescue Plan Act dollars, and the grants will be administered by the state Department of Health.

A separate measure, Senate Bill 80, will provide $2 million in grants to providers of elder care services for technology innovations that can "improve the quality of life and health outcomes of elderly residents and support health care workers." That fund will use state general fund money for grants administered by the Department of Human Services. Both measures resulted from the 2023 legislative summer study session on the long-term care industry.

Telemedicine providers, such as Sioux Falls-based Avel eCare, maintain a stable of nurses and physicians who can be called upon at any time to provide medical care through an internet connection and video link. For long-term care residents, they can get medical diagnosis and care almost immediately and at any time with help from a facility staff member in the room and a medical practitioner working remotely.

The Dow Rummel campus has used telemedicine in its skilled-nursing care wing for several years. The new grant program could allow the facility to expand telehealth services to other stages of its care continuum on the campus that hosts about 315 residents.

"When you’re dealing with the volume of residents that we have here on campus and all their different health care needs, there's a lot that comes up that you need to be able to address, so having this access to telemedicine 24/7 has been really, really helpful," Hofmeyer said. "It's the wave of the future."

Innovation grants for home health

The $2 million pool for innovation grants could help more people remain at home longer instead of moving into assisted-living facilities as they age, said state Sen. Sydney Davis, R-Burbank, the lead sponsor of both health care grant bills. Innovation grants could pay for more home monitoring devices and mobile diagnostic equipment that can be used by patients in their homes or during in-home health visits by practitioners, Davis told News Watch.

”We need to find alternative models of care to keep patients safe and healthy in their homes as long as possible because it’s where they want to be,” she said. “It’s better for them and less costly for the state.”

A key component of the innovation grant legislation is that it requires recipients to monitor the effectiveness of the new technology or equipment and file a report to the state on what worked or what didn’t, said Davis, a nurse anesthetist who is also a rancher.

“Maybe some of these investments would be worthy of us continuing to make them or to put more dollars into this in the future based on good outcomes. Or maybe the providers can make those investments on their own moving forward,” she said. “We can complement each other and give as much flexibility as we can so medical providers can best take care of our elderly folks.”

The field of telemedicine has been growing for decades but saw a major push forward during the COVID-19 pandemic when in-person health visits were dramatically curtailed.

South Dakota is a leader in the telemedicine industry, with Avel eCare launching in 1993 and a massive expansion in the works for telehealth provided by Sioux Falls-based Sanford Health.

Its $350 million Virtual Care Center will include a 60,000-square-foot facility being built on the Sanford Sports Complex just west of the Sioux Falls Regional Airport.

Visual care 'worth a thousand words'

With Avel eCare, subscribers install their own internet connectivity and are then provided a movable diagnostic cart with a video screen before paying a prearranged subscription fee for the service, said Victoria Walker, M.D., medical director of senior care at Avel.

The subscription allows long-term care facilities to receive diagnostics and treatment plans from doctors, nurses and pharmacists who are on call for Avel at any time, Walker said. The video link also provides the Avel practitioners with the patient's current medical records, both from hospital visits and those from within the long-term care facility.

Walker was recently serving as an on-call practitioner for Avel when she was linked up to a nursing home where a man in his 60s had suffered a stroke and was being fed through a tube. He was vomiting and in great discomfort and potentially at risk. The resident did not want to go to a hospital, so Walker was able to use the Avel video link to diagnose that he was severely dehydrated and needed fluids, which were given intravenously and helped stabilize him and allowed him to use his feeding tube again.

“A picture is worth a thousand words, so when we can see and listen to somebody directly, we get a pretty quick sense of what’s needed in the situation and get the ball rolling,” she said.

Walker said the new state grant program is funded well enough to bring telehealth to more long-term care properties and patients.

"I think it can make a pretty big difference. And once we have that infrastructure in place it kind of greases the wheels a little bit to tap into new gizmos as they come along," she said. "This is a really proven approach to providing high quality care to our elderly population and we’ve done nothing except make it stronger and better."

A boost for an embattled industry

Mark Deak, executive director of the South Dakota Health Care Association, which represents the long-term care industry in the state, said the two sets of grant monies will provide a much-needed boost of support for residents and staff throughout the troubled nursing home industry across the state.

Deak, who testified before the Legislature in favor of both grant programs during the session, said 17 long-term care facilities have closed in South Dakota over the past five years, largely due to financial struggles and a worker shortage.

“Obviously, long-term care has faced incredible challenges, some very unique challenges,” he said.

Deak said the state provided significant support to the industry by raising the Medicaid reimbursement rate paid to providers by 25% in 2023 and by another 4% this year.

Grants will help in rural areas

The new telehealth and innovation grants will improve patient care and hopefully improve recruitment and retention of certified nursing assistants, who form the backbone of staffing in the long-term care industry, Deak said.

Providing access to remote health care and implementing other innovations in elder care will reduce stress for employees because they won’t have to worry as much about keeping residents safe and healthy and won’t have to prepare as many patients for transport to hospitals or emergency rooms, he said.

“The biggest thing is it will make it easier for them to treat a resident on site, which is a big deal,” Deak said.

Some innovations that have been discussed center around technologies that can help predict which nursing home patients are prone to falls, can catch signs of sepsis infections earlier and aid in devising nutrition plans for patients, he said.

Both grant programs could be especially beneficial in rural areas of the state.

“Rural areas just have very unique challenges due to location when it comes to attracting staff and providing the services they need to,” Deak said. “They don’t have access to the medical support that you’d have in an urban setting.”

The $7 million in combined grants won’t solve all challenges in the long-term care industry but might provide a boost to facilities with significant financial hurdles, he said.

“Certainly more would be better, but I do think it’s a substantive move in the right direction,” Deak said. “I think it will make a material difference.”

This story was produced by South Dakota News Watch, a nonpartisan, nonprofit news organization. Read more in-depth stories at sdnewswatch.org and sign up for an email every few days to get stories as soon as they're published. Contact Bart Pfankuch at .  

AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY – APRIL, 2024

Carrie Moritz
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AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY – APRIL, 2024

            The American Legion Auxiliary met April 4 following our steak dinner with the legion.  Our Chairman, Cheryl, opened the meeting and our chaplain, Sue, led us in prayer.  We recited the pledge of allegiance and sang the Star Spangled Banner and recited our preamble. 

            Cheryl introduced our guest, Roxy Brendon, from Watertown.  Her husband , Denny, is our NEC.  Roll call of officers showed three absent.  The secretary’s minutes were read, approved and placed on file.  The treasurer’s report was read, approved and placed on file for audit.  Communications were read including our District Newsletter and one thank you.  Cheryl stated that our membership is at 192 and we are now at goal.  No cards were sent in March.  Bingo at Palisade Healthcare in March was enjoyed by 25 residents with 5 auxiliary volunteers. 

            There was a bill for for prizes for the Americanism poems and essays.  Denise moved to pay  the bill and Rhonda seconded the motion and it carried.  There are two applications received for the Auxiliary Scholarship and they were reviewed by several members.  Awards night is May 2 and Cheryl will do the presenting. 

            Girls’ State Orientation will be Sunday, May 5 at Post 15 in Sioux Falls at 1:00.

            Sue closed the meeting with prayer and our guest, Roxy Brendon, won the door prize.

-Ethel Kurtz, Secretary

Public Notices published April 18, 2024

Carrie Moritz
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Public Notices published April 18, 2024
  1. Minutes of the Garretson School Board Dist. #49-4 for April 8, 2024
  2. Minutes of the City Council of Garretson for April 8, 2024
  3. Minutes of the City of Garretson for April 12, 2024: Canvassing of Election
  4. Minutes of the Minnehaha County Commissioners for April 9, 2024
  5. Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change
  6. Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change
  7. Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change

Minutes of the Garretson School Board Dist. #49-4 for April 8, 2024

SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

Regular Meeting     Garretson School District #49-4      6:00 p.m.       April 8, 2024

            Present: Board President Shannon Nordstrom, Board Member Tana Clark, Board Member Wyatt Compton, Board Member Jodi Gloe, Superintendent Guy Johnson, & Business Manager Jacob Schweitzer. Others present: Elementary Principal Katie Hoekman, MS/HS Principal Chris McGregor, Activities Director Kevin Steckler, Jacki Liester, Natasha Mendoza, Garrick Moritz, Kathi Nolz, Sherri Schoenfish, and Patrick Waltman. Board Vice President Andy Hulscher joined via Zoom.

            At 6:02 p.m., the Board convened in the Library for its regular meeting of the Garretson School Board. All votes are unanimous, unless specifically noted in the minutes. 

            President Nordstrom led the Pledge of Allegiance and welcomed guests and visitors.

            President Nordstrom called for any additions or corrections to the Board agenda. Superintendent Johnson requested one addition. He asked that the addition of a fuel quote from Palisades Oil be added to the consent agenda.

            Action 24-087: Motion by Compton, second by Clark, to approve the agenda as presented with the requested addition. Motion carried.

            There were no comments made during the Open Forum portion of the meeting.

            Action 24-088: Motion by Clark, second by Compton, to approve the following consent agenda items as presented. Approval of March 11, 2024 regular board meeting minutes, approval of March 20, 2024 special board meeting minutes, approval of payments for March 2024 claims, approval of the financial statements for March 2024, approval of March 2024 payroll, approval of March 30, 2024 fuel quote, 10% Ethanol from Palisades Oil - $2.799, approval of the resignation of Dave Mudder, and approval of the following certified contracts (includes extra duties): Denyelle Ageson, $52,104; Stacey Anderson, $56,008; Denae Bass, $54,590; Angela Bly, $60,025; Jason Bohl, $80,319; Kelsey Buchholz, $64,965; Kayli Coburn, $27,948; Lisa Danforth, $56,548; Teddy Dauwen, $50,414; Travis Ehrisman, $58,450; Elizabeth Etrheim, $54,425; Julie Gnadt, $61,932; Lynsay Granberg, $56,378; Tori Hansen, $55,513; Jacob Heumiller, $59,179; Alyxa Hoefert-Veldhuizen, $51,645; Tim Hughes, $57,719; Alysha Kientopf, $64,756; Jeena Lentz, $51,903; Jacki Liester, $66,984; Janie Lundberg, $65,830; Kim Macziewski, $63,938; Sherri Matthews, $54,256; Darcy McGee, $57,570; Reece Moehlenbrink, $53,830; Amanda Nelson, $50,390; Sherri Schoenfish, $60,906; Amber Schroeder, $53,185; Taylor Schweitzer, $51,814; Nick Sittig, $62,912; Tracy Stallman, $61,356; Lauren Stoterau, $59,652; Andrew TerWee, $62,752; Amy Thompson, $56,098; Jill Whalen, $62,983; Amber Williamson, $59,710; Mallory Zell, $48,993. Motion carried.

GARRETSON SCHOOL DISTRICT #49-4

CLAIMS PAID APRIL 8, 2024

GENERAL FUND

            A-OX WELDING SUPPLY CO., INC., AG. CYLINDER RENTALS, $177.66; ALL AROUND WELDING, BUS MAINTENANCE/REPAIRS, $1,350.00; ALLIANCE COMMUNICATIONS, APRIL 2024 INTERNET & PHONE SERVICES, $788.00; BRANDON ACE HARDWARE, AG./SHOP SUPPLIES/KEYS/LIGHT BULBS, $167.83; BUILDERS SUPPLY COMPANY, VD 99 CYLINDER MOUNTING CUP, $22.50; CARROLL INSTITUTE, APRIL 2024 CONTRACT, $2,368.00; CLIMATE SYSTEMS, INC., SERVICE CONTRACT, $4,625.25; CORY GREENWOOD SPEAKS, ELEMENTARY PRESENTATION, $2,250.00; CULLIGAN WATER, PURIFIED SALT, $100.00; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, AMAZON- ADAPTER/BATTERIES/BINDER CLIPS/MARKERS, $118.74; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, AMAZON- NURSING SUPPLIES/PRIME ACCOUNT, $578.84; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, AMAZON- OFFICE SUPPLIES, $34.86; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, BURGER KING- ANNUAL NORTHERN PLAINS INSURANCE MEETING MEAL, $13.58; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, COFFEE CUP- FUEL- ALL-STATE BAND, $64.03; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, DECKER EQUIPMENT- TRANSPORTATION SUPPLIES, $57.55; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, DRAMATIC PUBLISHING- SPRING PLAY SUPPLIES, $427.36; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, HOWARD JOHNSON- HOTEL- LEADERSHIP TRAINING, $275.76; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, HUMAN RELATIONS- PAMPHLETS, $123.14; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, KIBBLE EQUIPMENT- GARDEN TRACTOR ALTERNATOR, $274.13; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, KIBBLE EQUIPMENT- QUICK COUPLER/SPARK PLUG, $15.94; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, KIBBLE EQUIPMENT- VOLTAGE REGULATOR, $50.98; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, SILVER DOLLAR BAR- MEALS- LEADERSHIP TRAINING, $37.88; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, UPPER CRUST PIZZA- MEAL- LEADERSHIP TRAINING, $17.13; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, WORDPRESS- ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION, $318.60; GARRETSON GAZETTE, ADVERTISEMENTS & MINUTES PUBLICATION, $375.79; GARRETSON SCHOOL DISTRICT CUSTODIAL ACCOUNT, MARCH 2024 IMPREST ACCOUNT REIMBURSEMENT, $21,801.12; HEALTHEQUITY, HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT CONTRIBUTIONS/FEES, $575.28; HILLYARD, CLEANING/MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES, $2,434.24; HORACE MANN, FEBRUARY 2024 ADMIN. FEES/MARCH 2024 PAYROLL ACH’S/FEES, $526.63; INSTRUMENTALIST AWARDS, LLC, SOUSA/CHORAL PINS, $43.50; INTERSTATE ALL BATTERY CENTER, DEVICE REPAIR, $105.95; JOSTENS, INC., GRADUATION OUTFITS, $1,032.90; LASTING IMPRESSIONS UNLIMITED, INC., BOYS BASKETBALL/GIRLS BASKETBALL/WRESTLING AWARDS, $227.50; LYNN, JACKSON, SHULTZ & LEBRUN, P.C., LEGAL SERVICES THROUGH 2/29/2024, $322.50; MEDICAID, FISCAL YEAR 2024 QUARTER 1 ADMIN. FEE, $133.37; MENARDS, CLEANING/MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES, $291.03; NELSON, TIM, COOLANT FOR BUS #4- REIMBURSEMENT, $87.93; PALISADES OIL, CO., BULK FUEL, $1,546.68; PERFORMANCE PRESS, INC., 3-PART LEAVE SLIPS, $180.00; POPPLERS MUSIC, INC., HIGH SCHOOL & MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND MUSIC, $137.00; RESTAURANT EQUIPMENT REPAIR, WALK-IN COOLER MAINTENANCE/REPAIRS, $1,192.73; SOUTH DAKOTA SOCIETY FOR TECHNOLOGY IN EDUCATION, 2024-2025 MEMBERSHIP, $30.00; SIOUX FALLS AUTO GLASS, ROCK CHIP REPAIR- SUBURBAN, $49.95; STEVE’S ELECTRIC & PLUMBING, INC., OFFICE COPIER OUTLET, $889.07; STURDEVANT’S AUTO PARTS, BRAKE PADS FOR SILVER VAN/BROOM, $161.72; WAGEWORKS, MARCH 2024 ACH FEES, $4,669.41; WASTE MANAGEMENT, APRIL 2024 GARBAGE & RECYCLING SERVICES, $700.67; XCEL ENERGY, JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2024 ELECTRICITY, $7,092.43;

TOTAL GENERAL FUND, $58,865.16

CAPITAL OUTLAY FUND

            ACCESS SYSTEMS, APRIL 2024 SERVICES/EQUIPMENT LEASE, $589.56; CLIMATE SYSTEMS, INC., BOILER REPLACEMENT- BILLING #2, $17,903.09;

TOTAL CAPITAL OUTLAY FUND, $18,492.65

SPECIAL EDUCATION FUND

            A TO Z WORLD LANGUAGES, INC., INTERPRETER SERVICES, $120.00; CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY, FEBRUARY 2024 TUITION, $2,841.93; GOODCARE, LLC, FEBRUARY 2024 SERVICES, $6,066.47; ISI, LLC, MARCH 2024 INTERPRETER SERVICES, $6,917.50; LIFESCAPE, FEBRUARY 2024 SERVICES/TUITION, $6,382.50; PRAIRIE LAKES EDUCATIONAL COOPERATIVE, MARCH 2024 SERVICES, $3,421.46; TEACHWELL SOLUTIONS, JANUARY & FEBRUARY 2024 SERVICES, $21,289.00;

TOTAL SPECIAL EDUCATION FUND, $47,038.86

FOOD SERVICE FUND

            LUNCHTIME SOLUTIONS, INC., FEBRUARY 2024 FOOD SERVICES, $36,640.73;

TOTAL FOOD SERVICE FUND, $36,640.73

CUSTODIAL FUND

            FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, AMAZON- PROM SUPPLIES, $692.75; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, DAKOTA ENTERTAINMENT- OBSTACLE COURSE, $634.90; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, DOLLAR GENERAL- PROM SUPPLIES, $26.37; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, GARRETSON FOOD CENTER- PROM SUPPLIES, $33.80; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, NASSP- NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY SUPPLIES, $770.00; FIRST BANK & TRUST CREDIT CARD, WALMART- PROM SUPPLIES, $159.68;

TOTAL CUSTODIAL FUND, $2,317.50

TOTAL CLAIMS: $163,354.90

IMPREST CHECKS

MARCH 2024

GENERAL FUND IMPREST CHECKS

            BRANDON VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT #49-2, FESTIVAL CHOIR- STUDENT REGISTRATION FEES, $90.00; CASH, 2024 ALL-STATE BAND MEAL MONEY, $224.00; CITY OF GARRETSON, GAS/SEWER/WATER, $20,064.18; ELK-POINT JEFFERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT #61-7, 2024 REGION 2B WRESTLING TOURNAMENT EXPENSES, $317.79; REGION II MUSIC, INSTRUMENTAL SOLO/ENSEMBLE CONTESTS, $36.00; SOUTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY, INDOOR TRACK MEET ENTRY FEES- 4/1/2024, $225.00; SOUTH DAKOTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONCERT- REGISTRATION, $126.00; WASTE MANAGEMENT, MARCH 2024 GARBAGE & RECYCLING SERVICES, $700.67; WEST CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT #49-7, 2024 REGION 3A GIRLS BASKETBALL EXPENSES, $17.48;

TOTAL GENERAL FUND IMPREST CHECKS, $21,801.12;

TOTAL IMPREST CHECKS: $21,801.12

Financial Report

            The Business Manager presented a financial report of cash balances, expenditures, and receipts for the month of March 2024 as listed below:

            Cash Balances as of March 29, 2024: General Fund: $306,587.98; Capital Outlay Fund: $1,391,962.57; Special Education Fund: ($67,143.43); Food Service Fund: $347,459.05; Driver’s Education Fund: $10,212.22; Preschool Fund: ($32,021.70); Custodial Fund: $76,642.89.

            Expenditures: General Fund: ACH Fees, $245.77; Claims, $58,308.31; Payroll, $306,095.82; Capital Outlay Fund: Claims, $3,745.77; Special Education Fund: Claims, $23,525.07; Payroll, $55,610.62; Food Service Fund: Claims, $31,949.58; Preschool Fund: Payroll, $9,541.35; Custodial Fund: ACH Fees, $5,658.92; Claims, $80,833.60.

Receipts: General Fund: Local Sources, $64,951.12; Intermediate Sources, $1,085.32; State Sources, $172,260.07; Capital Outlay Fund: Local Sources, $41,286.10; Special Education Fund: Local Sources, $27,176.83; State Sources, $7,644.69; Food Service Fund: Local Sources, $28,502.53; Federal Sources, $8,786.41; Preschool Fund: Local Sources, $2,800.00; Custodial Fund: Local Sources, $61,296.58.

President Nordstrom thanked Dave Mudder for his time and commitment to the students of the Garretson School District.

Old Business:

None

New Business:

            There were no conflicts of interest.

            Activities Director Steckler presented to the Board committee recommendations for events at the gym and athletic complex.

            Action 24-089: Motion by Clark, second by Gloe, to authorize Superintendent Johnson to begin the process of transferring ownership of the two specified parcels of land to the Garretson Child Care Corporation. Motion carried.

            The Board considered a quote for the athletic complex scoreboard and chose to direct Superintendent Johnson to investigate other options.

            RESOLUTION 2023-2024-1: Motion by Gloe, second by Clark, to adopt the resolution to join the South Dakota High School Activities Association for the 2024-2025 school year. Motion carried.

            Action 24-090: Motion by Gloe, second by Compton, to approve the exception to Policy KG, and approve summer programming as presented, which includes the Orthopedic Institute Program and summer sports camps. Motion carried.

            The following information items were presented to the Board: Policy GBCB: Staff Conduct and Garretson School District Meal Charge Policy.

            The First Readings of the following were presented to the Board as a part of the policy adoption process: Elementary Handbook, Middle School/High School (Secondary) Handbook, and iPad Handbook.

            The Second Readings of Policy KD: Public Participation at Board Meetings and Policy BDDH: Public Participation at Board Meetings were presented to the Board.

            Action 24-091: Motion by Gloe, second by Compton, to adopt Policy KD: Public Participation at Board Meetings and Policy BDDH: Public Participation at Board Meetings. Motion carried.

            Administration provided the Board with four administrative reports:

            a.         Superintendent’s Report - Superintendent Johnson informed the Board that a Special Education review was done by the state and the district is fully compliant. He added that we were approved for funding for the anti-bullet film through the Homeland Security grant but denied for funding for the camera system. Next, he let the Board know that the curtains for the stage in the old gym and tables in the lunchroom need replacing, and that the process for both has started. Superintendent Johnson finished noting that he is working with Mammoth to get quotes for the visitor bleachers at the athletic complex.

            b.         Prairie Lakes Educational Cooperative Report - Board Member Hulscher reported that the budget was approved for the coming fiscal year.

            c.         Elementary Principal/Curriculum Director’s Report - Principal Hoekman informed the Board that the 4th grade classes held their annual wax museum on March 13 and 5th grade would be attending Star Base. She added that Kids Heart Challenge kicked off and Smarter Balance Testing takes place April 8-24. Lastly, Principal Hoekman made the Board aware that NWEA/MAP Testing occurs April 29-May 3, and that motivational speaker Cory Greenwood would be presenting to the Elementary on April 9.

            d.         Middle School/High School Principal Report - Principal McGregor presented the Board with data from the NAEP website. He added that Smarter Balance Testing is underway for middle school and high school as well. Principal McGregor informed the Board that the State FFA Convention is April 18-20 in Brookings. Lastly, he made the Board aware that the district’s Academic Awards Night takes place May 2 at 7:00 p.m.

            Action 24-092: Motion by Compton, second by Gloe, to go into executive session, pursuant to SDCL 1-25-2, subsection 4: Staff Negotiations. Motion carried. The Board entered executive session at 7:45 p.m.

            President Nordstrom declared the Board out of executive session at 9:20 p.m.

            Action 24-093: Motion by Gloe, second by Clark, to adjourn at 9:22 p.m. Motion carried.

            Approved by the Garretson Board of Education this _____ day of _________, 2024.

Board President,

Shannon Nordstrom

Business Manager,

Jacob Schwetizer

            Published at the total approximate cost of $153.04 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-18-24-1tc

Minutes of the City Council of Garretson for April 8, 2024

City of Garretson

April 8th, 2024

            The City Council of the City of Garretson, Minnehaha County, South Dakota met in regular session on Monday, April 8th, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. at Garretson American Legion with Mayor Beaner presiding.

            6:31 P.M. Mayor Beaner called the regular meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL: Greg Beaner – Mayor

                        Greg Franka – Ward I

                        William Hoskins – Ward I

                        Dave Bonte – Ward II

                        Tom Godbey – Ward II

                        Jackie Rotert – Ward III

                        Bruce Brown -- Ward III

            OTHERS IN ATTENDANCE: Paetyn Dreckman, Jordan Doane, JR Hofer, Sonya Swanson, Leah Jones, Carrie Moritz, Colleen Collier, Janine Kentfield, Cole Gebhart, Parker Hamann, Brayden Beaner, Adam Zishka, Joe Bosman, Tad Heitkamp, Kurtis Nelson. . (NOTE:  All attendees hereinafter to be referred to by last name and first initials when necessary)

CONSENT AGENDA APPROVAL:

            A.         Agenda – 4-08-2024 Regular Meeting                      

            B.         Claims Approved Dated 4-08-2024

            C.         Minutes 3-04-2024 Regular Meeting, 2024 Equalization Meeting, Minutes 3-22-2024 Special Meeting

            Council member Hoskins made a motion to consent to the agenda, councilmember Brown 2nd. 6 ayes, 0 nays. Motion passed.

MONTHLY REPORT OF VOUCHERS PROCESSED

FOR THE APRIL 8th, 2024, REGULAR MEETING

PALISADE OIL COMPANY        Fuel     $70.00

SD RETIREMENT SVCS Retirement      $5,667.50

A-OX WELDING SUPPLY CO.   Tool Rental      $24.38

JESSE JAMES COUNTRY STORE           Fuel Charges   $321.78

DON'S AUTO   2013 Chevrolet Maintenance $1,855.09

A&B BUSINESS EQUIPMENT   Printer/Scanner Services        $106.36

WIESE OWEN  Devils Gulch Rental     $1,000.00

SIOUX FALLS HUMANE SOCIETY         24-Feb $513.74

STAN HOUSTON EQUIPMENT CO       Tools   $149.00

GARRETSON COMMERCIAL CLUB       Pool Ad           $50.00

GARRETSON FOOD CENTER    Shop Supplies $24.18

ALLIANCE COMMUNICATIONS           Internet/Phone Lines  $598.00

FIRST BANK & TRUST  Utility Bill Collection   $100.00

DAKOTA SUPPLY GROUP        Water Line Repairs     $3,373.27

QUILL CORPORATION Office Supplies            $94.58

CITY OF CROOKS         February 2024 Dekatherms    $3,517.29

DELTA DENTAL            Dental Insurance        $401.90

VERIZON WIRELESS     Cell Phones/iPad         $346.56

SAYRE ASSOCIATES     SRP Survey      $1,291.94

MINNEHAHA COMMUNITY WATER   Bulk Water      $7,879.30

XCEL    Streetlights     $2,108.13

PURCHASE POWER     Postage           $402.50

GARBAGE-N-MORE     Waste Removal           $170.00

BORDER STATES ELECTRIC      Utility Meters  $391.60

BRANDON ACE HARDWARE   Tool Repair      $352.27

MENARDS - EAST        Shop Supplies $2,676.34

AVESIS Vision Insurance         $80.11

GARRETSON GAZETTE Publishing       $734.02

PERFORMANCE PRESS Business Cards            $64.50

THE TREASURE CHEST Retail Space    $100.00

HOFER, JR        Office Equipment        $1,749.11

TRI-STATE DOOR         5th St Shop     $1,310.75

ALL AROUND WELDING          Parks Equipment Repairs        $370.00

CLAYTON ENERGY       February 2024 Commodity     $51,462.05

PREFERRED PRINTING Envelopes       $381.51

SIOUX VALLEY ENERGY           Rubble Site      $56.33

EFTPS/IRS (FED/FICA TAXES)  FED/FICA TAX  $7,702.62

SD DEPT OF HEALTH   Water Sample Testing $30.00

DEPT OF REVENUE      Sales Tax         $5,338.67

FIRST BANK & TRUST CC         Maint. Office Equipment        $4,132.35

JJ'S ELECTRIC   5th Street Shop Completion   $15,000.00

SOUTHEAST SD TOURISM       Tourism Ad     $1,570.00

AMAZON BUSINESS    5th Street Shop           $219.78

KGM GAS        Gas Meters     $2,449.29

WORKPLACE IT MANAGEMENT          IT Services       $2,532.64

NORTH CENTRAL INT'L INC     Snow Fleet Repairs     $159.67

CONSULTH LLC            Engineer Consult Services      $560.00

PAINTING THE TOWN Painting Library           $800.00

PAYROLL CHECKS        PAYROLL CHECKS ON 03/08/2024      $9,473.41

PAYROLL CHECKS        PAYROLL CHECKS ON 03/22/2024      $9,632.42

PAYROLL CHECKS        PAYROLL CHECKS ON 04/05/2024      $8,820.03

            CLAIMS TOTAL $158,214.97

            GENERAL FUND          $38,527.39

            THIRD PENNY SALES TAX FUND          $1,570.00

            WATER DEPT FUND    $21,280.47

            SEWER DEPT FUND     $9,311.62

            NATURAL GAS FUND   $87,525.49

            Public Comments: Zishka presented turnout on Coffee with a Cop event held at Annie’s. Rotert suggested ways to have a better turn out and Zishka mentioned providing more notice so public officials could attend.

Committee Reports

•          Natural Gas Reports -   Swanson presented gas prices at $1.08 per ccf and a new simpler layout option for city utility bills. Council discussed and council member Brown motioned to approve Natural Gas prices as presented with a second from councilmember Rotert. 6 ayes, 0 nays.  Motion passed.

•          Finance – Dreckman presented balances for city finances, an update on working “Traction” into daily processes with city staff, announced City Wide Clean-up for May 4th to include shredding located in the 5th street city shop parking lot, and updated on ward 2 election process on April 9th. Requested council to pick a date and time to canvass the election. Council selected April 12th at 5:00 pm at Garretson City Hall . No discussion.

•          Streets/Maintenance/Parks – Doane and Hofer included written updates in council packets and advised council they would be attending a pool operators course April 10th and 11th. Planning for summer season is underway and off to a good start.

•          Economic Development – Councilmember Rotert motioned to accept the resignation of the Economic Development Director, with a second from councilmember Godbey. 6 ayes, 0 nays. Motion passed.

•          Garretson Ambulance Update – Nelson advised council Ambulance responded to 266 calls in 2023 and had the best call time in the county for a community ambulance. They will be hosting a community breakfast May 5th at the Legion.

•          Minnehaha Volunteer Fire Department Update – Heitkamp advised council they’ve responded to 44 calls so far in 2024 and continue with monthly training.

•          Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office – Updated Radio Tower Agreement – Bosman gave an update on the radio tower project to increase communication for emergency services throughout Minnehaha County. Councilmember Brown motioned to wave building permit and filing fees for building required to house communication equipment with a second from councilmember Franka. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed. Councilmember Hoskins motioned to approve the Mayor to sign the agreement with the sheriff's office, with a second from councilmember Brown. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed.

Ordinances & Resolutions 

            Ordinance 695 – Amending General Organization; Appointments – Dreckman advised council of the amendment needed to correct the titles of council appointments given each May after elections. Councilmember Rotert motioned to approve the amendment, with a second from councilmember Bonte. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed. 

ORDINANCE NO.  695

            AN ORDINANCE AMENDING AND/OR REPEALING CERTAIN PORTIONS OF THE EXISTING GARRETSON MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 31, AND THE STATUTES CONTAINED THEREIN, RELATING TO “GENERAL ORGANIZATION; APPOINTMENTS.”

            BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY OF GARRETSON, MINNEHAHA COUNTY, SOUTH DAKOTA:

            GARRETSON MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 3-31-01 SECTONS (A) & (B) IS HEREBY AMENDED TO READ:

            Appointive Officers and Terms of Office:    At the first regular meeting of the City Council after the annual city election in each year, the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council, shall appoint the following city officers, who shall hold their offices for one (1) year, except as herein otherwise provided, and until their successors are appointed and qualified, to-wit:

            Council Officers Appointments: Council Officers Appointments: Personnel, Planning/Zoning/Streets, Finance & Professional, Utilities, Parks/Recreation/Tourism

            Other Appointments:  Attorney, Official Depository, Official Newspaper, SMGA Rep.

            That this ordinance is necessary for the preservation and support of the municipal government and its existing public institutions and shall take effect immediately upon the passage and publication hereof.

            Dated this 4th day of March 2024.                             First Reading:  March 4th, 2024.

Second Reading and Adoption: April 8th, 2024.

Effective Date: 

Published: 

Greg Beaner, Mayor

ATTEST:

Paetyn Dreckman, Finance Officer

 (SEAL)

            Published at the total approximate cost of $19.88 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-18-24-1tc

            Ordinance 696 – Supplemental Appropriations – Dreckman presented supplemental appropriations ordinance to adjust for expenses to complete the 5th street shop, snow removal equipment purchased, fees for pool maintenance, the library remodel, and fees to economic development. First reading. No action taken.

ORDINANCE NO. 696

            AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF GARRETSON, SOUTH DAKOTA PROVIDING FOR A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2024.

            BE IT ORDAINED by the Governing Body of the City of Garretson that the following sum is supplementally appropriated to meet the obligations of the municipality.

GENERAL FUND – 101

410 General Government

            General Government Buildings                      101-4192-422 Services and Fees                                                        $ 9,000.00

            101-4192-426 Supplies and Materials                                               $ 7,500.00

420 Public Safety

            Protective Inspections

            101-4232-422 Services and Fees                                                        $ 68,000.00

430 Public Works

            SNOW REMOVAL

            101-4317-434 Machinery Equipment                                                $ 23,800.00

450 Culture and Recreation

            Swimming Pool

            101-4512-422 Services and Fees                                                        $ 10,000.00

Library

            101-4550-425 Repairs and Maintenance                                           $ 7,700.00

            Economic Development

            101-4561-422 Services and Fees                                                        $ 15,600.00

TOTAL GENERAL FUND INCREASE                  $ 102,800.00

            SOURCE OF REVENUE – Capital Outlay, Contingency Transfer, and Unassigned Fund Balance

            BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that this ordinance is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public health, safety, and general welfare, and for the immediate support of the municipal government and its existing public institutions and it shall take effect upon passage.

Greg Beaner

(SEAL)

Mayor

ATTEST:

Paetyn Dreckman

Finance Officer

First Reading: 4-08-2024

Second Reading & Adoption:  

Publication: 

Effective Date: 

            Published at the total approximate cost of $25.21 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-18-24-1tc                      

Resolution 2024-12 – LWCF Grant Application – Dreckman requesting council approval for city to apply for grant for repairs and maintaining the city ballfields. Council discussion ensued and councilmember Bonte motioned to approve the application with a second from councilmember Brown. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed.

RESOLUTION 2024-12

A RESOLUTION ATHORIZING LWCF GRANT APPLICATION

            WHEREAS, the United States of America and the State of South Dakota have authorized the making of grants from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to public bodies to aid in financing the acquisition and/or construction of specific public outdoor recreation projects;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

            1.         That Greg Beaner, Garretson Mayor, is hereby authorized to execute and file an application on behalf of the City of Garretson with the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, through the State of South Dakota, Department of Game, Fish and Parks, Division of Parks, and Recreation, for an LWCF grant to aid in financing the Ballpark Improvements at Jaycee’s Complex in the City of Garretson, South Dakota, and its Environs.

            2.         That Greg Beaner, Garretson Mayor, is hereby authorized and directed to furnish such information as the above mentioned federal and/or state agencies may reasonably request in connection with the application which is hereby authorized to be filed.

            3.         That the City of Garretson shall provide a minimum of 50% of the total cost of the project; and will assume all responsibility in the operation and maintenance of the project upon completion of construction, for the reasonable life expectancy of the facility.

Certification of Recording Officer:

            The undersigned duly qualified and acting as Finance Officer of the City of Garretson does hereby certify: That the attached Resolution is a true and correct copy of the Resolution, authorizing the filing of an application with the National Park Services as regularly adopted at a legally convened meeting of the City of Garretson duly held on the 8th day of April 2024, and further that such Resolution has been fully recorded in the journal of proceedings and records in my office.

            IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 8th day of April 2024.

ATTEST:

Seal

Greg Beaner

Mayor, City of Garretson, SD

Paetyn Dreckman

Finance Officer

City of Garretson, SD

            Published at the total approximate cost of $24.50 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-18-24-1tc

            Resolution 2024-13 Authorized Signers – Beaner presented resolution to formally remove Jessica Fueston as a signer on city bank accounts. Councilmember Franka motioned to approve with a second from councilmember Rotert. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motioned passed.

City of Garretson

RESOLUTION #2024-13

            A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING FIRST BANK & TRUST OF GARRETSON REPRESENTATIVES

            WHEREAS, The First Bank & Trust of Garretson (herein referred to as Financial Institution) is designated as a depository for the funds of the City of Garretson (herein referred to as the Corporation) and to provide other financial accommodations as indicated of formatted banking powers, requirements and certifications.

            NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GARRETSON, SOUTH DAKOTA, does grant the following to be agents for the corporation as spelled out on the attached bank form:

Paetyn Dreckman, Finance Officer

            Greg Beaner, Mayor

            Tom Godbey, President

Adopted this 8th day of April 2024.

                        Greg Beaner

Mayor of the City of Garretson

(SEAL)

ATTEST:

Paetyn Dreckman

City Finance Officer

            Published at the total approximate cost of $13.14 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-18-24-1tc

            Resolution 2024-14 – Safety Action Plan through USDOT – Dreckman presented formal resolution from SECOG for the city to participate in Safe Streets for All program as discussed and approved in the March Regular Meeting. Councilmember Bonte motioned to approve resolution with a second from councilmember Hoskins. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed.

CITY OF GARRETSON

RESOLUTION 2024-14

            U.S. Department of Transportation Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant Application

            WHEREAS, the U.S Department of Transportation operates the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program, and

            WHEREAS, the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program allows for a regional Safety Action Plan managed by eligible agencies, and

            WHEREAS, the City of Garretson desires assistance from the U.S. Department of Transportation Safe Streets and Roads for All Planning and Demonstration grant program for the purpose of developing a Safety Action Plan, and

            WHEREAS, the South Eastern Council of Governments is an eligible planning agency that serves Clay, Lincoln, McCook, Minnehaha, Turner, and Union counties in southeastern South Dakota.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT:

            1.         The Garretson City Council hereby commits to the support of the creation of a regional Safety Action Plan managed by the Southeastern Council of Governments, and

            2.         The City of Garretson commits to providing $2,500 in local cash match for the project in addition to 10.5 hours of in-kind or cash match and provide such additional information as may be required.

            Adopted this 8th day of April 2024.

 Greg Beaner, Mayor 

ATTEST:

Paetyn Dreckman, Finance Officer

            Published at the total approximate cost of $17.40 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-18-24-1tc

            Resolution 2024-15 – Capital Outlay Transfer – Dreckman presented resolution to formally transfer funds from Capital Outlay to General Fund to adjust for cost of completing 5th street shop and the snow pusher. Councilmember Brown motioned to approve the resolution with a second from councilmember Bonte. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed.

RESOLUTION 2024-15

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF FUNDS

            WHEREAS, A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF FUNDS FROM THE CAPITAL OUTLAY FUND TO THE GENERAL FUND

            NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the city council of the City of Garretson South Dakota that the following sum is to be transferred from the capital outlay fund to the general fund for purchase of a snow pusher and 5th Street Shop/Office Completion.

            $73,558.21 from Capital Outlay Fund transferred to General Fund.

Adopted this 8th day of April 2024

            Greg Beaner

                        City of Garretson Mayor

(SEAL)

ATTEST:

Paetyn Dreckman

Finance Officer

Publication:  

Effective Date: 

            Published at the total approximate cost of $16.65 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-18-24-1tc

New Business:

•          Dakota News Now – Leah Jones – Jones presented schedule for commercial/social media advertising for the summer months, including a report on advertising from 2023. Councilmember Godbey motioned to move forward with advertising for 2024 with a second from councilmember Bonte.

•          Little League Ballfield Prep – Councilmember Bonte requested city staff to maintain ballfields. Hofer advised city will maintain and had already been worked into daily tasks for ball season.

•          Tax Abatement – Dreckman presented tax abatement needing formal approval/denial from city council. Minnehaha County recommended approval of abatement. Councilmember Franka motioned to approve with a second from councilmember Hoskins. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed.

•          Partial Main Street Closure – Friday evening of Jesse James Days – Moritz requested permission to close a portion of Main avenue the Friday evening of Jesse James Days for car show, live music, and bean bag tournament. Discussion ensued and councilmember Rotert motioned to allow closure with a second from councilmember Brown. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed.

•          4th Street Project – Bid Award Recommendation – Gebhart presented bid award recommendation as First Rate Excavate being the lowest bidder at $3,794,378.00. Gebhart has worked on other projects with First Rate Excavate and felt confident in awarding the bid. City Public Works Dept agreed with Gebhart’s recommendation. Council discussed and Gebhart advised there will be a public meeting scheduled before project begins. Councilmember Franka motioned to award bid for 4th Street Improvement Project to First Rate Excavate, with a second from councilmember Bonte. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed.

Old Business:

•          CIP Final Draft – Hamann presented final draft of CIP for adoption by council. Updated to adjust debt limit and list Community Access Grant for the 4th Street Improvements Project. Councilmember Bonte motioned to adopt the CIP, with a second from councilmember Franka. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed.

            7:37 PM Councilmember Rotert motioned to enter executive session with a second from councilmember Godbey.

            Before council could enter executive session, Kentfield requested council advise on lot within city to build a home. Council discussed and gave Kentfield options.

            7:43 PM Councilmember Rotert motioned to enter executive session with a second from councilmember Brown. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed.

            Executive Session: Pursuant of SDCL 125-2 (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6)

            8:22PM Councilmember Bonte declared out of executive session.

            Actions Resulting From Executive Session:  

            Councilmember Bonte motioned to move forward with Request for Proposal to Engineer Services, with a second from councilmember Hoskins. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed.

            Councilmember Bonte motioned to approve a salary increase of 25.97% to Dreckman effective immediately, and to revisit once she has completed bachelor's degree. Councilmember Brown seconded the motion. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed.

            8:25 Councilmember Hoskins motioned to adjourn with a second from councilmember Rotert. 6 ayes, 0 nays, motion passed.

            Meeting adjourned.

Greg Beaner, Mayor

ATTEST

Paetyn Dreckman

Finance Officer

(Unapproved)

            Published at the total approximate cost of $135.79 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-18-24-1tc

Minutes of the City of Garretson for April 12, 2024: Canvassing of Election

            The City Council of the City of Garretson, Minnehaha County, South Dakota met in special session on Friday, April 12, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. at Garretson City Hall with Mayor Beaner presiding.

            5:00 P.M. Mayor Beaner called the regular meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance.

ROLL CALL:      Greg Beaner – Mayor

                        Greg Franka – Ward I

                        William Hoskins – Ward I

                        Dave Bonte – Ward II

                        Tom Godbey – Ward II

                        Jackie Rotert – Ward III

                        Bruce Brown -- Ward III

            OTHERS IN ATTENDANCE: Paetyn Dreckman

            CONSENT AGENDA APPROVAL:

A.         Agenda – 04-12-2024 Special Meeting                     

            Councilmember Godbey made a motion to approve the consent agenda with a second from councilmember Franka. 6 ayes 0 nays. Motion passed. 

Public Comments:   No Requests

NEW BUSINESS:

o          Canvassing Election

            Councilmember Brown motioned to Canvass the 2024 Ward 2 Election with a second from councilmember Hoskins. Roll Call Vote: Godbey—aye, Franka—aye, Hoskins—aye, Brown—aye, Rotert—aye, Bonte abstained from voting. 5 ayes, 0 nays, 1 abstained. Motion passed.

            Mayor Beaner discussed process to move forward with agreement on 633/629 Main Avenue property. No action was taken as the item was not on the agenda.

            5:04 PM councilmember Hoskins motioned to adjourn with a second from councilmember Brown. 6 ayes 0 nays. Motion passed.

            Meeting Adjourned.

Greg Beaner, Mayor

ATTEST

Paetyn Dreckman

Finance Officer

(Unapproved)

            Published at the total approximate cost of $21.66 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-18-24-1tc

Minutes of the Minnehaha County Commissioners for April 9, 2024

            THE MINNEHAHA COUNTY COMMISSION CONVENED AT 8:00 AM on April 9, 2024, pursuant to adjournment on April 2, 2024. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT WERE: Bender, Beninga, Bleyenberg, Karsky, and Kippley.  Also present were Kym Christiansen, Commission Recorder.

            Chair Karsky called the meeting to order.

            MOTION by Bleyenberg, seconded by Beninga, to approve the agenda. 5 ayes

            MOTION by Bleyenberg, seconded by Kippley, to enter into Executive Session pursuant to SDCL 1-25-2 (1). 5 ayes.

            Chair Karsky declared the executive session concluded at 8:27 a.m.

            MOTION by Kippley, seconded by Bleyenberg, to adjourn at 8:28 a.m. 5 ayes.

            The Commission adjourned until 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 16th, 2024.

APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION:

Dean Karsky

Chair

ATTEST:

Kym Christiansen

Commission Recorder

            Published at the total approximate cost of $13.85 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com. 4-18-24-1tc

Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change

CIV: 24-1366

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS   COUNTY OF  MINNEHAHA) 

IN CIRCUIT COURT

SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

In the Matter of the Petition

of Madyson Lois-Jeanne

Hutchinson,

For a Change of Name to

 Eivor Maverick Hutchinson

 CIV: 24-1366

            Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name  Change has been filed by Madyson Lois-Jeanne Hutchinson, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Madyson Lois-Jeanne Hutchinson to Eivor Maverick Hutchinson.

            On the 21st day of May, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Judge Hanson Presiding, at the Court Room in the Minnehaha County Courthouse, City of Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County, South Dakota, or as soon thereafter as is convenient for the court. Anyone may come and appear at that time and place and show reasons, if any, why said name should not be changed as requested.

            Dated this 5th Day of April, 2024 at Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Attested by,

Angelia Gries, Clerk of Court

            Published four times at the approximate cost of $50.69  and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com.

4-11-24-4tc

Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change

CIV: 23-3054

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS   COUNTY OF  MINNEHAHA) 

IN CIRCUIT COURT

SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

In the Matter of the Petition

of Akierateamadejollie

Khilala Kjergaard,

For a Change of Name to

 Ainsworth Khilala Kjergaard

 CIV: 23-3054

            Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name  Change has been filed by Akierateamadejollie Khilala Kjergaard, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Akierateamadejollie Khilala Kjergaard  to Ainsworth Khilala Kjergaard.

            On the 28th day of May, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Judge Sabers Presiding, at the Court Room in the Minnehaha County Courthouse, City of Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County, South Dakota, or as soon thereafter as is convenient for the court. Anyone may come and appear at that time and place and show reasons, if any, why said name should not be changed as requested.

            Dated this 8th Day of March, 2024 at Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Attested by,

Angelia Gries, Clerk of Court

            Published four times at the approximate cost of $50.69  and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com.

4-4-24-4tc

Notice of Hearing: for Adult Name Change

CIV: 23-3667

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA) SS   COUNTY OF  MINNEHAHA) 

IN CIRCUIT COURT

SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

In the Matter of the Petition

of Jesse Taylor Wells,

For a Change of Name to

 Joselyn Taylor Wells

 CIV: 23-3667

            Notice is hereby given that a Verified Petition for Adult Name Change has been filed by Jesse Taylor Wells, the object and prayer of which is to change Petitioner’s name from Jesse Taylor Wells to Joselyn Taylor Wells.

            On the 7th day of May, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m. said Verified Petition will be heard by this Court before the Honorable Judge Theeler Presiding, at the Court Room in the Minnehaha County Courthouse, City of Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County, South Dakota, or as soon thereafter as is convenient for the court. Anyone may come and appear at that time and place and show reasons, if any, why said name should not be changed as requested.

            Dated this 19th Day of March, 2024 at Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Attested by,

Angelia Gries, Clerk of Court

            Published four times at the approximate cost of $50.69 and can be viewed for free at www.sdpublicnotices.com.

4-4-24-4tc

News for 4-18-24

Carrie Moritz
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News for 4-18-24
4-18-24 front page

This week, we have part 2 of our story on concerns about bullying; the school will be gifting land to Blue Dragon Academy that was missed in the first land exchange; a recent GHS graduate is breaking track and field records at DSU; and track & field at GHS is off to a great start. Plus, baseball, legion updates, a podcast, and a party, plus more!

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News for 4-18-2024 (e-edition)

Carrie Moritz
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News for 4-18-2024 (e-edition)

This Week's Issue

4-18-24 front page
Download this week's issue
Community Events Calendar

This week, we have part 2 of our story on concerns about bullying; the school will be gifting land to Blue Dragon Academy that was missed in the first land exchange; a recent GHS graduate is breaking track and field records at DSU; and track & field at GHS is off to a great start. Plus, baseball, legion updates, a podcast, and a party, plus more!

This Week's Spotlight Photos

4-18-24 front page
male in sunglasses leading a pack of runners on a track
baseball player kneeling and touching a base
baseball player sliding into home plate
baseball player swinging a bat
female track runner passing baton to fellow runner
male runner passing baton to fellow runner at track meet

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Parents come forward to the Gazette with concerns on bullying, student safety and sexual harassment in our school

Carrie Moritz
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Parents come forward to the Gazette with concerns on bullying, student safety and sexual harassment in our school

By Garrick & Carrie Moritz

Garretson Gazette

            A warning to our readers, this story will contain disturbing content. To protect our sources and the children involved we are making the deliberate choice not to print the names of the families or students involved.

            Within the span of five days, two separate parents of Garretson School students chose to approach this newspaper directly, to speak to us about their particular student. The incidents both students are involved in are separate from each other, but we feel that it is important they both be reported on at once. These stories were vexing and distressing enough that our staff felt we had to pursue an investigation and make a report to our readers. These reports left us with many questions as to how prevalent bullying is in our district, how bad the situation has become and what can be done about it.

            Parent #1 said that that they plan to withdraw all their children currently enrolled in Garretson from the district and enroll them elsewhere.

            Parent #2 came to us, with a story about their daughter, currently enrolled in middle school at the Garretson school. After two interviews with the Gazette, both filled with very harrowing details of violence and assault of a sexual nature, this parent decided they did not wish to make public comments at this time. Parent #2 also said that their family plans to pull all of their students from the Garretson School District, as they feel they are not safe in our school.

            In both cases, both Parent #1 and Parent #2 expressed their feelings that the officials at our school district or the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s department had not truly heard or understood their concerns, or that if they had, they had not been taken seriously enough.

            Parent #1 wanted to speak to us about events that have happened involving their elementary student.

            “The first incident this year, my daughter was shoved down onto the asphalt on the school playground,” Parent #1 said. “She got a severe concussion, to the point where I had to call an ambulance because she couldn’t form sentences, answer basic questions or stay awake. My daughter vomited seven times and had to stay overnight in the hospital. The school called me two hours after the incident happened. The child who did this to her got a day of lost privileges. This happened at the beginning of the school year.”

            “The second incident was simply constant bullying on the bus, to the point where I had to remove my daughters from the bussing service because nothing was done,” Parent #1 said.

            “The third incident, a random iPhone was found with my daughter's picture as the background, and it doesn't belong to us and no one will claim it,” said Parent #1. “The school is brushing it off as a friend who is using her picture as background, but the spooky thing to me is that no one wants to claim it? My daughter has no memory of this picture being taken and the phone sits with a dead battery in the receptionist’s desk. This happened before Christmas break. To this day no one has claimed it.”

            The fourth incident, which Parent #1 said was the final straw for them, was that they received a call that their daughter had been touched inappropriately on the playground during recess by a male classmate.      

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Get to know your local librarians: Sharon Hall

Carrie Moritz
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Get to know your local librarians: Sharon Hall

By Elizabeth Wastell,

Garretson Gazette

            This is the third article in our series featuring local librarians. In this week’s article we are speaking with Sharon Hall.

Sharon Hall //photo submitted

            Hall was born in Wisconsin. Portage, to be exact.

"Portage," Hall said, "in rural Montello, Wisconsin, moved to Colorado where my husband’s from, and then we found our way to South Dakota."

            Hall has an Associate’s Degree in Bible studies from Northwestern University, Bachelor of Science in English from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, and a Master of Science in Continuing and Vocational Education from University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a Master of Library and Information Science from Drexel University in Philadelphia. Hall has a husband and son.

            She said that books open up whole new worlds for readers.

            "(Books) give you the ability to step away from the world’s cares and get lost in a different world," she said. "I grew up around books since my Mom owned a Christian bookstore and I volunteered in my school’s library. I chose to major in English because of my love for literature and jumped at the opportunity as I finished college to become Director of a township library."

            Hall shared with us her favorite authors and genres.

            "Historical fiction, Christian fiction." she said. "Kristin Hannah, Lauraine Snelling, Francine Rivers, Deanne Gist. I loved Kristen Hannah’s 'The Nightingale' and Francine River’s Redeeming Love.'"

            Hall does a lot more than just librarian duties, as she manages four of the Siouxland Libraries.

            "I manage four branches operated by eleven staff,” she said, “putting together the monthly schedule becomes challenging when there’s meetings, time off requests, programs, and system responsibilities that constantly change up who will work when and where."

            As a librarian, she says the work is always rewarding and she enjoys lending a helping hand.

            "Getting to know our customers and helping people find information that impacts their lives," she said. "Nothing is ever boring; every day has something different. I just love hearing the children laugh and cheer during a story time."

            Aside from the library she finds many enjoyable things to do in her free time.

            "I enjoy reading (obviously), listening to Christian music, and browsing for new recipes," she said. "As we are a former farm family, we like attending tractor pulls, thresherees, farm shows, and county fairs."

Garretson City Council talks Ambulance and Fire services, radio tower and 4th Street

Carrie Moritz
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Garretson City Council talks Ambulance and Fire services, radio tower and 4th Street

Carrie Moritz, Gazette

            This past Monday, the Garretson City Council voted to accept a bid for the 4th Street project for just under $4 million, lower than the expected estimates would be. They also heard several updates from the Garretson Ambulance, Fire Department, and Minnehaha County Sheriff, and accepted the resignation of Economic Development Director Jessica Fueston.

            The top of the meeting began with comments from Minnehaha Sheriff's Department Patrol Commander Adam Zishka, who spoke about their outreach attempts such as "Coffee with a Cop."

            "Coffee with a Cop" is a way for community members to meet some of the deputies that are working in Garretson, he explained. This outreach has been held twice at Annie's, and Zishka invited members of the council to attend the next one.

            "They'd certainly like to meet you," he told the council. "I think that'd be a good opportunity for us all to get together and something that the city can say, hey, this is a joint thing and hopefully get more people into."

            Zishka pointed out that while the first one had some decent attendance, the second one did not. He did admit that they did not do a great job of getting the word out in advance about the events, and stated he would work to get the next date to the city much sooner.

            When asked if there were other events that they'd be willing to set up, such as the "Touch a Truck" events, Zishka noted that despite their popularity, it is very time and resource intensive to set up for the Sheriff's Department. They do set up a Bike Safety event in Dell Rapids each year, after the community experienced the loss of a young teen who was hit by a car while on his bicycle a couple years ago. However, they're more than willing to join events that are already occurring in town if they are aware of them, he said.

            Next, City Billing Officer Sonya Swanson addressed natural gas prices, which are down $0.38 to $1.08 per ccf after a spike last month.

            City Finance Officer Paetyn Dreckman announced the City Cleanup Day is scheduled for May 4, the weekend after the Citywide Rummages. On that same day, Dakota Shred will have bins on the corner of Main and 5th next to the city maintenance sheds. The rest of the cleanup will occur at Garbage N More, located at 708 Nordstrom Ave, where residents will be able to bring items that normally cannot be taken with the regular trash, such as construction materials, appliances, furniture, and large items. It includes mattresses and tires for an extra fee.

            After hearing the finance report and a maintenance report, Mayor Greg Beaner addressed a resignation that was received just after the last council meeting from Economic Development Director Jessica Fueston. Fueston, who had been at the helm of the position since its creation in June of 2021, stepped down at the end of March. However, the council had to vote to formally accept her resignation. They did, though it leaves an important position open at a critical time for the city.

Ambulance, Fire Calls Increased

            Kurtis Nelson, Garretson Ambulance Director, spoke on how 2023 went for the EMS crew.

            "Last year was our busiest year ever," he said. "We had 226 calls for service. Our previous high was 223. We treated 245 patients and had 197 transports. Our most common calls were falls, breathing problems, chest pain, cardiac problems and traffic crashes."

            Despite the higher numbers, the Garretson EMS crew were found to have the fastest response time in the county at a median of just under nine minutes.

            "We used to be the slowest in the county, and we were doing the fastest last year," Nelson said. Currently, he pointed out, the crew has 19 members, 10 EMTs, 3 paramedics, 4 nurses, and 2 drivers. There are 8 people currently taking an EMT class in Garretson, and Nelson was hopeful most of them would stay on one of the two volunteer first responder forces.

            He then reported on the status of the digital radio upgrade, which has been a $100,000 project over the past few years and is required by law. He said they received their final batch of radios last week, which means the project should be complete. They also received grant funding from the state for a monitor defibrillator unit, replacing one that is over ten years old, and have installed a system that allows for a video call to a doctor on call while in the back of the ambulance. He pointed out that South Dakota is one of the first states to implement the system, and that it has been helpful.

            After speaking about a regional and state initiative that is studying how EMS will look and operate in the future, Nelson announced that their annual fundraiser, the Ambulance Breakfast, will be held on May 5 at the Legion Dugout.

            Garretson Volunteer Fire Department Chief Tad Heitkamp then spoke on how the fire crew is doing this year so far. He pointed out that they are already up to 45 calls this year, a good number of which have been grass fires due to drought conditions.

            "We had a monstrosity on Saturday, we helped out Dell Rapids," Heitkamp said. "Over 300 round bales caught on fire."

            Many of the other calls they have received have been medical calls, where they assist the Garretson Ambulance as needed.

Radio tower upgrade

            Captain Joe Bosman of the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Department then spoke about the radio tower upgrade that has been in the works for the past two years. With this, they will install two antennas that will help increase the ability for first responders to communicate with dispatch, especially in weaker areas such as down by the water at Palisades State Park. He noted that much of the funding has come from the American Rescue Plan Act, known as ARPA, and that antennas will also be installed by Baltic, Humboldt, Colton, and Hartford, shoring up the radio infrastructure all over the north side of the county.

            The council agreed to allow the installation of the radio tower next to the water tower on the east end of town, and to waive construction permit and inspection fees. The reasoning, councilors said, was because of the benefit this will bring to the community first responder crews, and the fact that it would be generating no taxes after installation.

City promotion continues

            After approving several resolutions, including a first reading on appropriations to pay for repairs done to the library and the swimming pool and a second reading on a capital outlay transfer for snow equipment, the council heard from Leah Jones.

            Jones, a Garretson native, has been working with the city through Dakota News Now to bring the promotion of the city onto the television screen. Last fall, they hosted a campaign that was considered successful.

            "We're looking to grow Garretson by having families move to town as well as tourism," Jones said. She said that while the city currently has an ad created by another source, she would be willing to film a second commercial at no cost to the city that would hopefully highlight the business community and bring in more commercial opportunities.

            The entire promotional run, which would occur from mid-May through mid-August, would include 254 spots on television and three social media posts at a total cost of just over $8,000. City Finance Officer Dreckman pointed out to the council that the cost had been budgeted for, but because the city had only signed a 3-month contract last fall, that Jones was having to present again to ensure the council wanted to continue moving forward with the promotional effort. They did, and voted to continue working with Jones.

            After approving a tax abatement for two community members, they heard from Carrie Moritz, vice president of the Garretson Commercial Club. In years past, a portion of Main has been closed on the Friday evening of Jesse James Days to allow for events to occur downtown, such as live music, food stands, and bean bag tournaments. The Commercial Club wished to do that again, closing Main from 3rd to 4th Street starting around 5:00 p.m. The council voted to move ahead with that request.

            Just before approving the final draft of the Capital Improvement Project, the council heard from Cole Gebhart of Sayre Associates. Five bids for 4th Street construction had been submitted, and the lowest bid came from First Rate Excavate for $3,794,378. This company came highly recommended, as it was First Rate who finished the 3rd Street/Truck Route project after Haarsma Construction was fired by the city.

            Of the five bids, the highest came in at $4,173,000. All were lower than the engineer's estimate of $4,217,385.80. Despite the high cost, the city will be receiving financial help from the state towards the project, which will decrease the contributed cost.

            There was no estimated start date for the project yet, as the contractor will also have to be approved by the SD Department of Transportation. However, once that has occurred, Sayre Associates will work with the city to set up a public meeting date to ensure citizens' concerns and questions are addressed.

            The next regular meeting of the Garretson City Council will be held on Monday, May 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Legion. All members of the public are encouraged to attend.

Garretson School Board on track to pass easing of attendance restrictions, holds off on new scoreboard

Carrie Moritz
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Garretson School Board on track to pass easing of attendance restrictions, holds off on new scoreboard

Garrick Moritz, Gazette

            The Garretson School Board had a regular meeting on Monday April 8th. The main topics of discussion were policy items, specifically the adoption of compromise language proposed by the committee appointed to revise school policies on attendance in sports games.

            One big announcement during the reading of the consent agenda was the resignation and retirement of Dave Mudder.

            “We want to make sure and note that, it’s quite an accomplishment to have 26 years in the district,” said Board President Shannon Nordstrom. “We want to thank him for having an impact on a lot of students and hopefully their physical fitness through the years. And, you know, he also took a team to a state basketball tournament. So, he's got a lot of good things to leave behind him as a legacy here.”

            When the board got to policy items, they reviewed the report presented to them by the appointed committee.

            “I’m going to invite Mr. Kevin Steckler to give a presentation to the board,” said Supt. Johnson, “but before I do that I wanted to note that the handbook polices for the Elementary and the Middle School/High School are already on the agenda for review and first reading, and so assuming that you folks want to move forward with their {the committee’s} recommendations, we'll just insert that language into the handbooks directly at this first reading tonight, so that the next meeting when you approve the handbooks, the language will already be there for your approval.”

            Mr. Steckler then addressed the room. He outlined the formation of the committee comprising of himself, Natasha Mendoza, Oran Sorenson, Jackie Liester, Angie Bly, Jodi Gloe and Andy Hulscher. He outlined the concerns that were addressed by all parties, and described a two-and-a-half-hour-plus meeting last month where everyone was heard out, and policy changes were recommended. Policies where students K-5 cannot go to the restroom or the concessions unattended will be relaxed. At the outdoor athletic complex, there will be a designated play zone for K-5 students. There will still be teacher and staff monitors at the ends of the ball court for basketball and volleyball, to monitor traffic for the safety of students, spectators, players and officials. Expectations for students and those in attendance will be printed in the program and announced before games, and there will be signage posted as well.

            “We think we’ve put together an excellent compromise that is real and practical, that keeps the event safe for our athletes and officials and fair for everybody,” Steckler said. “I’m sure that there will be issues, but there always are. You just make the best plan you can, and you work to keep to it. This plan is practical and reasonable, so it will give us a good foundation.”

            Post-meeting, we spoke with Natasha Mendoza, now a new school board member elect, on the compromise and changes to the game attendance policies, as she took a leadership role in bringing this matter to the school board.

            “I think it’s a wonderful start,” she said. “As it’s a compromise, I didn’t get everything I wanted, but I think we got everything we needed to continue. As we continue to go forward, we will learn and continue to make positive improvements to our district, and I think that is what everyone wants.”

            As requested by the board, Supt. Johnson gave them an appraisal for installation of a new scoreboard. To date, the school had received zero bids for the project which allowed them under the law to seek bidders as long as they stayed within the specifications of the project.

            Supt. Johnson brought the board two proposals from Daktronics. One, using slightly older product technology would run the school approximately $240,000. The other with state-of-the-art technology would be around $270,000. Both proposals included an all-weather TV screen. The higher price proposal has a significantly bigger screen than the first proposal, and would last a great deal longer. Also, neither proposal included electrical hookup or fiber optic cable installation to the crow’s nest.

            The board debated this for quite some time. They acknowledged many points, first that the old scoreboard is a dinosaur from 2005 or 2003 and it barely works, requiring constant repairs.

            “Our last repair we had to beg, borrow and steal to get it working again,” said Nordstrom. “Parts for it are no longer being made and from what I understand they’ve had to cobble things together from salvage to get it going again.”

            So, it needs to be replaced, but as the board debated they felt the price was just very steep. It needs updating, as do the scoreboards in the gym. In the end, they asked Supt. Johnson to find out what other, simpler options may be.

            The board also approved a policy change regarding public commentary and public forum at meetings. This revision is a step forward, bringing the board policy and practices of open government that most of the rest of the state is already following. Anyone can come to make commentary during the Open Forum section. The School Board President will moderate their time and determine if the issue they’re speaking on is appropriate for open forum or if he wishes to give them time to speak during a particular agenda item.

            Next week, the Gazette will report more on other items that were discussed in the administrative report in a follow up story.

Community Happenings April 11, 2024

Carrie Moritz
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Community Happenings April 11, 2024

Election Results for April 9

            Results for the election of Ward 2 City Council for the City Council of Garretson as of close of polls and count of election workers at 7:15 p.m.

Leslie Black: 1 vote

Dave Bonte: 20 votes

1 provisional ballot that must be confirmed

Total number of voters: 22

Winner: Dave Bonte

The Folks Behind the Camera at SDPB!

several people posing and smiling

            On Tuesday, May 9th, the folks from Sout Dakota Public Broadcasting came to Garretson South Dakota to do interviews and gather information about Garretson for an episode of Dakota Life. SDPB personnel pictured here are, front row, Nathan Hofer and Cara Hetland. Back row are Jonathan Rouse, Kate Lundahl, Nate Wek, Greg Beesley and Tim Davison. Not pictured is friend of this newspaper, Lori Walsh.

            Keep watching this newspaper and SDPB for more details on Garretson’s SDPB Dakota Life episode!

Importance of Early Childhood Development

            From birth to age 5, a child’s brain develops more than at any other time in life. Early brain development has a lasting impact on a child’s ability to learn and succeed in school and life. The quality of a child’s experiences in the first few years of life – positive or negative – helps shape how their brain develops.

Young children experienced a baby chick at the FFA Animal Nursery in this 2023 file photo. //photo submitted

            At birth, the average baby’s brain is about a quarter of the size of the average adult brain. Incredibly, it doubles in size in the first year. It keeps growing to about 80% of adult size by age 3 and 90% – nearly full grown – by age 5.

            Parents and other caregivers can support healthy brain growth by speaking to, playing with, and caring for their child. Children learn best when parents take turns when talking and playing, and build on their child’s skills and interests. Nurturing a child by understanding their needs and responding sensitively helps to protect children’s brains from stress. Speaking with children and exposing them to books, stories, and songs helps strengthen children’s language and communication, which puts them on a path towards learning and succeeding in school.

            Exposure to stress and trauma can have long-term negative consequences for the child’s brain, whereas talking, reading, and playing can stimulate brain growth. Ensuring that parents, caregivers, and early childhood care providers have the resources and skills to provide safe, stable, nurturing, and stimulating care is an important public health goal.

            When children are at risk, tracking children’s development and making sure they reach developmental milestones can help ensure that any problems are detected early and children can receive the intervention they may need.

            When children attend Blue Dragon Academy, we build these relationships with them in a positive way. Our teachers watch for children to reach developmental milestones, set goals for children, and provide them activities that build on cognitive skills as well as fine motor and gross motor development. Kids enjoy the structure of our program while being able to learn through active exploration in a positive way. BDA provides a strong foundation for later academic, social, and emotional growth.

            Blue Dragon Academy offers vision and hearing screenings once a year to children. Mrs. Erika comes to our center twice a month to provide our children with music and Mrs. Stacy comes once a week with the Tumblebus. BDA works with Sanford CHILD services for staff trainings, parent programs, and any technical assistance the center may need with behavioral issues or developmental issues.

            Blue Dragon Academy is proud to provide a safe, healthy, positive, and secure learning environment for all children enrolled at our center.

Splitrock Bowling:

            The Splitrock Ladies bowled on April 9th, 2024, with the following results:

            High Team Game & Series - Rock River Ag., LLC - 881 & 2521.

 High Individual Game & Series - Jill Reindl - An errorless 221 which was 71 pins over her average & 493.

 Barb Caffrey picked up the 3-10 split.

            Joann Gundvaldson picked up the 5-7 split.

            Marcia Ryken picked up the 5-10 split.

            Kathie Franz picked up the 3-10 split.

            Brenda Jones picked up the 5-6 split.

            The Splitrock Ladies bowled on April 2nd, 2024, with the following results:

            High Team Game & Series - JSA Engineers/Land Surveyors - 912 & 2570.

 High Individual Game - Was shared by Cheryl Scholl & Jill Reindl - 199 which was also 59 pins over Cheryl's average.

            High Individual Series - Jill Reindl – 494.

            Kathie Franz picked up the 2-7 split which was bowled on 27th and missed last week’s news.

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