TALK of the TOWN
VS Legion Soup
Supper is Oct. 8
Valley Springs American Legion will serve up a soup supper from 5-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 at the Legion Hall. On the menu is chili, bean and ham and Lory’s chicken pot pie soups, corn bread muffins, chips hot dogs and drinks.
Walker to talk on role of civics, news in
nation’s history
As the U.S. celebrates its 250th anniversary, the Brandon Historical Society is hosting a presentation that looks at the role civics and the news played in the nation’s history. That includes the separation of powers among the branches of government and that system of checks and balances; civic responsibilities; and how to find trusted sources of news and information. Carson Walker, CEO of South Dakota News Watch, will lead this interactive presentation at 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, at the Performing Arts Center at Brandon Valley High School, 301 S. Splitrock Blvd. The program is free and open to the public.
Beck to present at next Military History Night
Kari Beck will give the Sunday, Oct. 18 presentation at the Valley Springs Military History Night beginning at 6:30 p.m. Her presentation will be on the 1st Minnesota Regiment at Gettysburg.
The program is free and open to the public.
Current needs at the Brandon Food Pantry
Current needs at the Brandon Food Pantry are microwave popcorn, taco seasoning, bottles of juice, Rice-a-Roni, jelly/jam, BBQ sauce, canned carrots, vegetable and vegetable beef soups, deodorant, shampoo (only) and laundry detergent (56 ounces).
To make appointments for pickups or donations, call 582-7001. The BAFP is open from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Used eye glasses and hearing aids for the Brandon Lions Club may be dropped off at the BAFP, at Jones Family Eye Care and Lewis in Brandon.
BVACC, BV Journal schedule candidate forums
The Brandon Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and Brandon Valley Journal are once again teaming up on two upcoming candidate forums. The first is for candidates for Brandon’s Ward 1 and 3 races. It is set for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 in the Brandon City Council Chambers. The second is for District 2 candidates from 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 11 at Sioux Valley Energy in Brandon.
Written questions from the public may be submitted prior to each candidate forum. Email questions by Wednesday, Oct. 7 to editor@bvjournal.info.
Brandon Senior Citizens
The Brandon Senior Citizens meet at 12:30 p.m. every Thursday at the VFW for Bingo, cards socializing and coffee. All seniors are welcome.
Brandon VFW ‘Chase the Ace’ is Thursday
Brandon Three Rivers VFW Post 4726 “Chase the Ace” weekly drawings are on Thursdays. Tickets are sold from 5-7 p.m. and at 7:30 p.m. one ticket is drawn to receive 10 percent of that night’s ticket sales total and the chance to draw for the Ace of Diamonds. Forty percent of each night’s ticket sales will go to the pot.
Walker to give talk on ‘250 Years of Civics and News’ on Oct. 25
Journalist Carson Walker, CEO of South Dakota News Watch, will be the featured speaker for the Brandon Historical Society’s Sunday, Oct. 25 history night. The event begins at 6 p.m. at the BVHS Performing Arts Center. His nonpolitical discussion is titled “250 Years of Civics and News” and examines the role/importance of the media in/on civic engagement. Admission is free and all are welcome to attend.
Valley Springs Veterans Day program and dinner
Plan now to attend the Veterans Day program and dinner on Wednesday, Nov. 11. A catered meal will be served …
Brandon Farmers Market now open for season
The Brandon Farmers Market is now open weekly for the 2026 season. The Market will be open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturdays in the parking lot at 1200 E. Birch St.
Other notable dates this season are: Christmas in July, July 18; Apple Fest, Aug. 22; Pumpkin Palooza, Sept. 19; Pet Costume Contest, Oct. 24; and Trunk or Treat, Oct. 31.
Join a committee of the BV Chamber of Commerce
There are several committees for Brandon Valley Area Chamber of Commerce members to join.
The monthly committee meeting begins with the marketing committee, which meets the first Wednesday of each month at 8 a.m. Special events meet the second Wednesday of the month at 8 a.m., and the career development committee meets at 8 a.m. on the third Thursday of each month. The member relations committee meets at 8 a.m. on the fourth Wednesday of the month, and issues management meets at 8 a.m. on the fourth Thursday of the month.
All meetings are held at the BVACC office at 306B S. Splitrock Blvd. (southside of Splitrock Square).
To learn more about the Chamber, to become a member or join a committee, call (605) 582-7400.
Free week of low-impact class for seniors at Circuit Fitness
Circuit Fitness is offering senior try-it low impact classes. They are offered the first week of the month, Monday thru Friday 8:30 a.m.-9:15 p.m.
Brandon PO has new phone number
The Brandon Post Office has a new phone number. The number is (605) 349-4443.
Brandon MOPS is now The MomCo of Brandon
The MomCo of Brandon, formerly MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), now has two meetup options: 6-8 p.m. Thursdays and 9-11 a.m. Fridays. Gatherings are held twice a month at Brandon Valley Assembly of God.
The MomCo of Brandon is a community of moms, from pregnancy through moms of school-aged kids, supporting each other through the seasons of motherhood. The MomCo of Brandon is a non-denominational faith-based organization that believes better moms make a better world, and are committed to making sure every mom knows you are not alone.
To learn more, visit MomCo of Brandon on Facebook or email brandonmomco@gmail.com.
IceCats Arena calendar available online
Curious about what’s going on inside the IceCats Arena? Visit brandonvalleyhockey.com for the calendar of events, which includes practices for various levels of players, a women’s and men’s (A and B skaters, geriatric) leagues, games and tournaments.
Rake the Town on tap for Oct. 23
Brandon Valley Area Chamber of Commerce is once again leading the charge to “Rake the Town” on Friday, Oct. 23. Individuals, businesses and organizations that wish to volunteer should register online, https://forms.gle/XrubDhMo9gRysa5CA. Raking begins at 8 a.m. and continues through 5 p.m. Volunteers may take part for a few hours or the entire day.
Elderly and disabled residents in need of having their yard raked should email admin@brandonvalleychamber.com or call (605) 582-7400 to register.
Donations of bottled water or pre-packaged snacks for the volunteers are also welcomed.
Register for city’s mass notification system https://easternsouthdakotaconference.org/public/genie/165/school/2/
Register for mass notifications on general alerts from the city, including snow, lawn watering, etc.), pool, elections, summer rec, Core and Rushmore projects. Residents may specify which notifications they want to receive.
The system code may take a few minutes to be sent to individual’s inbox, so city advises to wait for the code before asking it to resend.
This notification system replaces the city’s previous texting program.
To register, visit https://cityofbrandon.org/notifications
City text notification system in Valley Springs
To stay abreast of city-related notifications in Valley Springs, text “alerts” to (605) 250-3221.
Residents in Valley Springs can stay abreast of emergencies, water shut downs, snow removal, etc. by texting “alerts” to (605) 250-3221.
Brandon Senior Citizens
The Brandon Senior Citizens meet at 12:30 p.m. every Thursday at the VFW for Bingo, cards socializing and coffee. All seniors are welcome.
Al-Anon meetings in Brandon
Al-Anon meets from 7:30-8:30 p.m. every Tuesday at Brandon Lutheran Church, 600 E. Holly Blvd.
Monthly meetings at the Brandon VFW
Four military service-related organizations – Three Rivers VFW Post 4726, the VFW Auxiliary, the American Legion Post 318 and its Auxiliary Unit – all meet at the Brandon VFW, 321 S. Main St.
Brandon American Legion meets at 7:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month. The VFW Auxiliary meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month. The VFW Post meetings start at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of the month, and the Legion Auxiliary meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
Valley Springs branch/leaf site open Tuesdays, Saturdays
Beginning the last half of April (weather permitting), Valley Springs residents may bring leaves, grass clippings and branches to the city brush site from 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays. The site is monitored and is available to city residents only. Proof of address is required.
Users are asked to place leaves and grass in the designated area (no bags) and tree limbs and branches should be place on the brush pile. No trash or concrete is allowed by dumped at the site.
Volunteer drivers sought to deliver meals in Brandon
Active Generations and the Meals on Wheels program is seeking volunteer drivers to deliver meals in Brandon Monday through Friday. The approximate delivery time is noo-1:15 p.m. Schedules may be flexible (i.e. weekly, bi-weekly, one time per month or substitute driver).
To learn more, call (605) 333-3305 or email slocke@activegen.org.
Brandon Transit available to all
Brandon Transit is a public transportation service that is available to all. Services are provided from approximately 7:45 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Brandon Transit provides rides to medical and dental appointments, therapy, clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living centers, nutrition sites, governmental offices, day care, preschool, employment, shopping areas, and grocery stores. The fee is $2 per ride or $4 round trip.
To schedule a ride, contact Brandon Transit at least one day in advance at 582-3553 between 7:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday.
TOPS open to all
The Brandon chapter of TOPS, “Take Off Pounds Sensibly,” meets at 9 a.m. Mondays at Brandon Lutheran Church, 600 E. Holly Blvd. Participants should park in the east parking lot and use the main entrance, far right door. Once inside, turn right and follow the positive and uplifting conversation.
TOPS is for both men and women, and the group’s purpose is to encourage, motivate and support one another.
DON’T USE
The terms of BV Board of Education president Renee Ullom and board member David Bell will expire this year.
Nomination petitions for the school board may be circulated starting April 9. Filing deadline is May 10 and the election is Tuesday, June 18.
Clear snow from fire hydrants
The Brandon and Valley Springs volunteer fire departments remind residents to help clear snow from fire hydrants near their home. Remove any snow and ice within a three-foot perimeter of the hydrant and clear a path from the hydrant to the street.
City snow alert information
To keep informed on snow alerts in the city of Brandon, they are announced via several avenues: City website, text message, KELO-TV, KSFY-TV, KDLT-TV, KTTW-TV, KELO-AM/FM, KXRB, KRRO, KTWB, KWSN, KXQL, Q957, KSOO. Once a snow alert is issued or 3 inches or more of snow has fallen, it is automatically considered a snow alert and it is illegal to park on the street until the street is plowed.
To sign up to receive a text message, visit https://cityofbrandon.org/notifications
Celebration Baby Blessing is Jan. 25
Celebration Baby Blessing a ministry providing free baby items (diapers, wipes, clothing, etc.) to the community of Brandon. the next giveaway is from 1-2:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25 at the church, 500 Pasque Flower Trail.
Current lawn watering restrictions
Timely rainfall as city of Brandon water customers in stage 1 (green) of lawn watering restrictions. The even/odd schedules allow users with even-numbered addresses to water on even-number calendar dates; users with odd-numbered address are allowed to water on odd-numbered calendar dates.
Water restriction stages and other updates are posted on the city website and Facebook pages.
Brandon Farmers Market open every Saturday
The Brandon Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at 925 N. Splitrock Blvd.
To learn more, visit brandonsdfarmersmarket.com, email brandonsdfarmersmarket@gmail.com or call (605) 940-7516.
Coffee with the Council on Saturday
Join two members of the Brandon City Council at Kingbird Coffee, 509 N. Splitrock Blvd., from 9-10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 9.
City of Brandon July meetings
Brandon’s Park Advisory Board will meet at 5:15 p.m. Wednesday, July 16. The city council’s briefing meeting at 4 p.m. and the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting at 6:30 p.m. are scheduled for Thursday, July 17. The city council’s second meeting of the month begins at 6 p.m. Monday, July 21. Closing out the month is the council’s briefing meeting at 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 31.
All meetings are held at City Hall and as always, these meetings are open to the public.
Free senior fitness classes
Circuit Fitness, 1124 E. Holly Blvd., Brandon, will offers free senior fitness 55-plus try-it classes from 7:30-8:15 a.m. the first week of August. The low-impact classes are all about gaining strength, balance and agility. Mondays and Wednesdays are dedicated to strength, conditioning, agility; Tuesdays and Thursdays are yoga classes; and Fridays alternates between fitness and yoga.
To learn more, email info@circuitSD.com.
Snow alerts for Brandon
The city of Brandon uses several avenues to announce snow alerts. Residents can find this information on the city website (cityofbrandon.org), through city-issued text message system (sign-up at cityofbrandon.org/notifications), television stations (KELO, KSFY, KDLT, KTTW) and radio stations (KELO-AM, KXRB, KRRO, KTWB, KESN, KXQL, Q957, KSOO).
Once a snow alert is issued or receive 3 inches or more of snow, it is illegal to part on the street until it is plowed.
Clear snow from fire hydrants
The Brandon and Valley Springs volunteer fire departments remind residents to help clear snow from fire hydrants near their home. Remove any snow and ice within a three-foot perimeter of the hydrant and clear a path from the hydrant to the street.
Valley Springs Library offers craft, activity bags
The Valley Springs Library has craft and activity bags available twice a month to pick up and bring home.
The public computer is available for use during open hours of City Hall and the Library. Library Hours are 3-6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Brandon Farmers Market
The Brandon Farmers Market is open 9 a.m.-2 p.m. every Saturday through October in the Lippert parking lot at 915 N. Splitrock Blvd. To learn more, check out the Brandon Farmers Market Facebook page for vendors and other weekly events.
Brandon Farmers Market open every Saturday
The Brandon Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at 925 N. Splitrock Blvd.
To learn more, visit brandonsdfarmersmarket.com, email brandonsdfarmersmarket@gmail.com or call (605) 940-7516.
Brandon Park Advisory Committee meets tonight
The Brandon Park Advisory Committee will meet at 5:15 p.m. tonight, Wednesday, July 17 in the City Council Chambers. These meetings are open to the public. To view the agenda prior to the meeting, visit the city website at cityofbrandon.org and click on the Park Advisory Committee link.
Brandon P&Z Commission meets Thursday
Brandon’s Planning and Zoning Commission will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 18 in the City Council Chambers. These meetings are open to the public. For the meeting agenda, visit the city website at cityofbrandon.org and click on the Planning and Zoning Commission link.
AWANA Club meets Wednesdays
AWANA meets each Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Brandon Valley Baptist Church, 400 N. Splitrock Blvd. AWANA is a weekly, non-denominational Christian club for children from 3-years-old through eighth grade. It is free to join and scholarships are available to cover the cost of books and uniforms. A free meal is served at 6 p.m., followed by AWANA at 6:30 p.m.
Tickets on sale for 3rd annual Honoring Our Heroes Ball
The third annual Honoring Our Heroes Ball, which is a night of dinner and dancing for veterans, auxiliary members and a guest, is planned for Saturday, Oct. 21 at the VFW Post 4726 in Brandon. Doors open at 5 p.m. for social time and dinner will be served at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $50 per person and may be purchased at the Brandon VFW, 321 S. Main St., via Venmo @Brandon-VFW or visit www.facebook.com/fvwauxiliary4726. The event is limited to 75 people.
To learn more, call (605) 759-1993 or
Early voting now underway
South Dakota voters can now cast ballots for the Nov. 5 general election.
Voters in Minnehaha County can file absentee ballots with the county auditor’s office, located in the administration building at 415 N. Dakota Ave. in Sioux Falls.
Voters can also have an absentee ballot mailed to them.
Those who wish to submit absentee ballots by mail should complete a request form, which is available on the secretary of state’s website. From sdsos.gov, click on the absentee voting link. The forms must be either notarized or include a copy of the voter’s state-issued identification card or driver’s license.
The deadline to register to vote in the general election is Oct. 21. Details on how to register are available at county auditor offices or the secretary of state’s website. Click on the register to vote/update voter registration link.
Sample ballots are available at county auditor offices or the secretary of state’s voter portal website, vip.sdsos.gov. Sample ballots include a list of all races and ballot measures individualized for voters based on where they are registered.
Valley Springs Pet Clinic is JULY
The annual Pet Clinic in Valley Springs is scheduled from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, JULY XX at the City Maintenance building. Rabies and other shots will be available, in addition to city pet licenses. Rock Veterinary Clinic will administer the shots. City ordinance requires that every dog, cat and other animal be immunized against rabies and be annually registered for a city pet tag.
BLC summer lunch distribution
Free summer lunches for kids 18 and under are distributed every Tuesday and Wednesday. Lunches will be distributed Tuesdays from 7-7:30 p.m. at Brandon Lutheran Church, 600 E. Holly Blvd., and again on Wednesdays from 11:15 a.m.-noon at Brandon Lutheran Church as well as a second location at Locust and Parkview Boulevard (1825 Parkview Blvd.).
To learn more, call Brandon Lutheran Church at (605) 582-3401 or visit the church Facebook page.
Nominations sought for BV Hall of Fame
Nominations for 2023 induction into the Brandon Valley Athletic Hall of Fame are being accepted through Dec. 19. Nomination forms may be downloaded from the BVHS website under the Booster Club tab, email Bob Logan at lynxlogan@hotmail.com or call (605) 261-1308 or Bill Freking at bill.freking@k12.sd.us.
The 2023 Hall of Fame Banquet is set for Saturday, March 25 at Holiday Inn Express in Brandon.
Clear snow from fire hydrants
The Brandon and Valley Springs volunteer fire departments remind residents to help clear snow from fire hydrants near their home. Remove any snow and ice within a three-foot perimeter of the hydrant and clear a path from the hydrant to the street.
Ladies, Geriatriac hockey leagues are Wednesday nights
Brandon Valley Hockey Association has a Ladies League from 7-8 p.m. Wednesdays at the McHardy Park outdoor rink, followed by the Geriatric Hockey League from 8-10 p.m. at the McHardy Park outdoor rink. The leagues are open to all levels of skaters/players.
Pucks & Ponytails returns
Brandon Valley Hockey Association has brought back Pucks & Ponytails, which is geared for female skaters. The program is from 10-11 a.m. Saturdays on the BVHA’s outdoor rink at Aspen Park. To learn more, visit brandonvalleyhockey.com.
Open skate at the rink is also scheduled from 8-9 p.m. Fridays.
Valley Springs snow removal policy
In the event of two or more inches of snow, no parking is allowed on a public street for snow removal purposes. Illegally parked vehicles will be ticketed and/or towed at the owner’s expense. Snow and ice must be removed within 24 hours from the fall of snow or formation of ice on sidewalks. If snow or ice is frozen to sidewalks and can’t be removed, suitable material must be sprinkled on the sidewalk to prevent it from being slippery.
Valley Springs branch/leaf site open Tuesdays, Saturdays
Valley Springs residents can bring leaves, grass clippings and branches to the city brush site from 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays. The site is monitored and is available to city residents only. Proof of address is required.
Users are asked to place leaves and grass in the designated area (no bags) and tree limbs and branches should be place on the brush pile. No trash or concrete is allowed by dumped at the site.
Last chance to apply for BCF grant
The application period for a Brandon Community Foundation grant closes Friday, Sept. 1. Grant dollars are available to non-profit organizations and not for profit businesses in Brandon.
For the grant application, visit brandoncf.org/grants/apply-for-grants.
Grants will be awarded at the BCF’s annual fundraiser, Oak & Vine, on Friday, Oct. 27 at the Brandon Holiday Inn Express.
Current lawn watering restrictions
The city of Brandon is in stage 2 (yellow) of lawn watering restrictions. Watering is now only allowed once per week. Consumers can water having an address that ends: 0 or 1 on Monday; 2 or 3 on Tuesday; 4 or 5 on Wednesday; 6 or 7 on Thursday; 8 or 9 on Friday
Once water usage drops back to under 1.6 gallons per day for five straight days, the designation drops back down to Stage 1.
Water restriction stages and other updates are posted on the city website and Facebook pages.
Secure document shredding event returns
Celebration United Methodist will host a secure document shredding event from 10 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday, May 15 at the church, 500 N. Pasque Flower Trail, Brandon. Staples, paper clips and file folders do not need to be removed from the documents, such as tax returns, bank statements and personal paperwork.
There is a suggested donation of $5 to $10 per box.
To learn more, call the church office at 582-7995.
VFW Auxiliary bake sale is Sept. 10
Brandon’s VFW Auxiliary is staging their first bake sale of the season from 5-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 10 at the Post Home. All proceeds from their September and October bake sales will be directed to the Honor Flight program.
Brandon P&Z Commission meets Thursday
Brandon Planning & Zoning Commission will meet at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 3 in the city council chambers. The agenda and packet may be viewed by visiting cityofbrandon.org.
Chamber Brew Crew is March 12
Brandon Valley Area Chamber of Commerce invites members to Brew Crew from 8-9 a.m. Friday, March 12 at Kingbird Coffee.
Valley Springs Legion meetings
Valley Springs American Legion meetings will be held Monday, April 19 at the Post Home. The Sons of the Legion meets at 6 p.m., followed by both the Legion and Auxiliary meetings at 7 p.m.
VS Legion Soup Supper
A soup supper fundraiser will be served from 5-6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 17 at the Charles R. Doman American Legion Post 131 in Valley Springs. The menu includes chili, bean and broccoli cheese soups, hot dogs, cornbread, chips, drinks and condiments. Proceeds will go toward building insurance costs and paying down the heating and cooling system updates.
Dueling Duo returns for BVFD fundraiser
The spring fundraiser for the Brandon Volunteer Fire Department––Dueling Duo––returns this year after taking a hiatus last year due to COVID-10. The 2021 event is set for Friday and Saturday, April 16 and 17 at the Holiday Inn Express in Brandon. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8.
For tickets, email bvfdtickets@outlook.com, call/text Joe at (712) 541-0644 or visit bvfdtickets.com.
April 2 is final karaoke contest qualifying night at Double D
Double D Saloon in Brandon will wrap up its qualifying rounds for its karaoke contest on Friday, April 2. Registration begins at 8 p.m. and the competition starts at 8:30 p.m. There is a $5 registration fee and each contestant will perform two songs. The top three singers of the night will advance to the April 16 grand finale for a chance to win $1,000, $500 or $250. Must be 21 years of age to participate.
BV school music concerts
Brandon Valley orchestra students in grades 4-5 will showcase their talents in concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 11 in the Performing Arts Center at BV High School.
Easter carnival at the Big Red Barn
An Easter carnival at the Big Red Barn, 48148 258th St., rural Brandon, is planned from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 3. The event will feature an ongoing Easter egg hunt, carnival games, live animals, healthy snacks and an opportunity for youngsters to have pictures taken with the Easter Bunny. All ages are welcome, but the event is geared to kids 0-10. There is a $5 per person cost to help defray expenses. This is an all-prize, no candy event.
Flushing water mains in VS this week
The city of Valley Springs will conduct their annual water main flushing the week of April 26. Homeowners are advised to exercise care in their laundry operations and to check the water for clarity before use.
To learn more, call City Hall at 757-6555.
Friday is deadline to file for BV School Board
The filing period for two openings on the Brandon Valley Board of Education closes at 5 p.m. Friday, May 7.
The terms of longtime board member Gregg Ode and Nick Scott, who was appointed last summer to fill the chair vacated by Dan Klumper, are expiring. Both positions are three-year terms.
If more than two candidates file, an election will be held on Tuesday, June 15.
To learn more, call the BVSD Central Office at 582-2049.
May 12 blood drive at BLC
Brandon Lutheran Church will serve as the host location for a blood drive from noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 12. To register to donate, visit https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/donation-time
COVID antibody testing will be done also.
K of C Chislic Feed is May 14
The Splitrock Council 13400 of the Knights of Columbus will host a Chislic Feed from 5-7 p.m. Friday, May 14 at the Red Barn, 48148 258th St., Brandon. A variety of chislic will be served, along with chips, side dishes, desserts, lemonade and water. Hotdogs will be available for the kids.
A free will offering will be taken with proceeds to go to religious vocations.
VS Legion BBQ fundraiser is Saturday
Valley Springs American Legion will be serving up its BBQ fundraiser from 5-7 p.m. Saturday, May 15. Grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, barbeques, calico beans, chips, coleslaw, and drinks are on the menu. This is a Thrivent-sponsored event. All profits will be used to reduce the heating and cooling system debt. Curbside delivery is available by request.
Brandon Boss Gobblers plan Women in the Outdoors event
A Women in the Outdoors event will be offered by the Brandon Boss Gobblers on Tuesday, May 23 at the Garretson Sportsman’s club, 48605 255th St.
A variety of sessions will be offered, including archery, intermediate gun handling and safety, handguns, rifles, shotguns, kayaking, fishing, and crossbow shooting. Women will participate in four sessions, which are each 30 minutes in length.
Participants may bring their own firearm and must supply their own ammo or may use the BBG’s .22, 9mm, 12 gauge.
To register or learn more, call Eric Olson at (605) 360-5707 or email hunter3008@midconetwor.com, Robert Nelson at (605) 261-9120 or Matt Swenson at (605) 351-5295.
Nominations sought for BV Hall of Fame
Nominations for 2022 induction into the Brandon Valley Athletic Hall of Fame are being accepted through Dec. 20. Nomination forms may be downloaded from the BVHS website under the Booster Club tab, email Bob Logan at lynxlogan@hotmail.com or call (605) 261-1308 or Bill Freking at bill.freking@k12.sd.us.
The 2022 Hall of Fame Banquet is set for Saturday, March 26 at Holiday Inn Express in Brandon.
BVBA Bingo Night
The Brandon Valley Baseball Association will host the first of three bingo nights, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 18 at Tailgator’s. Eleven games of bingo will be played, with the final game of blackout for $1,000. Bingo nights are also being planned for January and February.
Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday
It’s time to fall back! That’s right, we’ll gain an extra hour of sleep as we turn the clocks back one hour Saturday evening.
This is also a good time to change the batteries in your smoke alarms.
Circuit collects warm clothing for St. Francis House
For the fourth year, Circuit in Brandon is collecting warm clothes for the St. Francis House in Sioux Falls.
Donations of new or clean, gently-used clothing (gloves, hats, boots, jackets, sweaters, etc.) may be dropped off at Circuit, 1124 E. Holly Blvd., through Dec. 18. Drop off hours are Monday-Friday 5-6:30 a.m. and 3:30-7 p.m. and Saturdays 8-8:45 a.m.
To learn more, visit www.circuitSD.com or info@circuitSD.com.
Jan. 16 is next Military History event
Valley Springs American Legion will host Military History presentation beginning at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 16. Former Brandon native, Nathan Abraham, will be speaking on his training and experiences as an infantryman with the 3rd Infantry Division during a tour to Afghanistan in 2011-12.
The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will also be served.
BVSD Early Childhood Screening is Jan. 27
Brandon Valley School District will conduct its annual Early Childhood Developmental Screening from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 27 at Brandon Elementary School.
Screenings are free for all children from birth to age 4 who live in the BVSD. South Dakota School for the Deaf will also be providing free hearing screenings at this time.
Kindergarten screening for any child who is eligible to attend this fall will be held Feb. 28-March 11. Parents/guardians should contact the office of the school their child will attend.
To register for early childhood screening, visit brandonvalleyk12.sd.us/spec_serv or call (605) 582-3446.
First Brandon Historical Society presentation is Sunday
The Brandon Historical Society will host its first bi-annual presentation on local historical topics at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, May 22 in the community room at Brandon Valley High School. Refreshments will be served. The event is free and open to the public.
Bingo at the VFW this Saturday
Family Bingo Night returns to the Brandon VFW at 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9. Cards are just 25 cents each and proceeds from the night will go to the Veterans Community Tiny Home project in Sioux Falls.
Homestead Day set for Sept. 10
Venture out to Beaver Creek Nature Area, Beaver Creek Nature Area, 48351 264th St., Valley Springs, from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 1-4 for the 45th Annual Homestead Day Celebration. the event is free for all ages.
Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the pioneer life from over 100 years ago. The historical Samuelson cabin will be open for visitors to see and experience. There will also be pioneer agriculture demonstrations, blacksmithing, civil war soldiers, Dutch oven cooking, rope making, candle dipping, music and so much more.
Brandon’s Parade of Lights is Saturday
VFW Three Rivers Post 4726, in cooperation with the Brandon Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, is once again organizing a Parade of Lights that will step off at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov.305 from the Brandon Valley High School parking lot. The parade route will proceed down Holly Boulevard to Main Avenue, and will disperse at the VFW. Families, organizations and local businesses are encouraged to take part in the parade. There is no cost or pre-registration required. Packaged snacks for volunteers are also being accepted.
Brandon Community Foundation grant deadline nears
Sunday, Sept. 1 is the final day to apply for a grant from the Brandon Community Foundation. The mission of the BCF is to build a brighter tomorrow through philanthropy and investing in non-profits/ideas that improve the quality of life for all ages through the arts, recreation, health, education, public safety and more.
Since its start, the BCF has given more than $315,000 in grants to non-profit community organizations.
To apply, visit brandoncf.org.
Rake the Town on tap for Oct. 25
Brandon Valley Area Chamber of Commerce is once again leading the charge to “Rake the Town” on Friday, Oct. 25. Individuals, businesses and organizations that wish to volunteer should register online, https://forms.gle/XrubDhMo9gRysa5CA. Raking begins at 8 a.m. and continues through 5 p.m. Volunteers may take part for a few hours or the entire day.
Elderly and disabled residents in need of having their yard raked should email admin@brandonvalleychamber.com or call (605) 582-7400 to register.
Donations of bottled water or pre-packaged snacks for the volunteers are also welcomed.
Free bike registration in Brandon
Brandon Police will register bikes for kids and adults from 1-5 p.m. Saturday, May 17 on Main Avenue. The no-charge event is hosted by the VFW Auxiliary Three Rivers Post 4726 and is open to all residents.
Brandon Tree Branch Disposal Day is Saturday
The City of Brandon will host its annual Tree Branch Disposal Day from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, May 17. Only branches up to 12 inches in diameter and 10 feet in length may be brought to 409 N. Sioux Blvd. (entrance north of the Fire Station.
The branch disposal is open to Brandon city residents only. Proof of residence must be provided (i.e. SD driver’s license and/or current city utility bill). A small fee will be charged (cash or check only): Pickup truck or smaller, $10; Trailer, $10; pickup with trailer, $15.
Items that will not be accepted include leaves, grass, lumber, yard waste and pet waste. Also, commercial contractors may not dump unless contracted by the city of Brandon.
Illegal dumping outside of operation days/hours or non-approved items will be prosecuted.
The city is not responsible for accidents or injuries.
To learn more, call City Hall at (605) 582-6515.
Pool will open when weather allows
Brandon’s community pool was scheduled to open Monday May 26. However, the weather has put the pool’s opening on temporary hold.
When the temperatures warm up, residents should keep the following in mind:
• Notifications for weather delays, closures, swimming lessons cancellations are made via the city’s text notification system.
• Memberships are available for purchase online. No nannies or grandparents are included on family memberships; they must have their own.
• Membership key tags must be brought to the pool. Users who do not have the key tag, will be required to pay the daily fee or not enter the pool. Pool cashiers will not search membership names.
• Inflatable devices, including inflatable swimsuits, are not allowed.
• Food and drink are allowed in the pool area except for alcohol, glass or breakable products.
• Children under 7 years of age must be supervised by someone at least 16 years old. For a list of all hours, rules and fees, visit cityofbrandon.org/pool. To learn more, call City Hall at (605) 582-6515 or email parksandrec@cityofbrandon.org. The phone number for the pool is (605) 582-7555.
Next Brandon Farmers Market is Saturday
The next Brandon Farmers Market is Saturday, Feb. 14 at Faith United Church, 800 N. Splitrock Blvd. The Farmers Market is open 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and is scheduled for two more indoor markets, March 14 and April 11.
To learn more, visit brandonsdfarmersmarket.com, email brandonsdfarmersmarket@gmail.com or call (605) 940-7516.
Pool Teen Night planned for Friday, June 19
The first Pool Teen Night of the summer at the Brandon Community Pool is planned from 9-11 p.m. Friday, June 19. This special event is for teens ages 13-19. Normal daily fees or memberships will apply, and Brandon police have been notified of the vent.
To learn more, call (605) 582-7555.
Cars and Coffee set for July 25
Brandon Cars and Coffee at Annie’s Coffee and Roastery, 721 N. Splitrock Blvd., Brandon, is planned from 8-10 a.m. Saturday, July 25. Owners of classic, street rod, rat rod, hot rod or any cool ride are invited to mingle with neighbors while enjoying a favorite Saturday morning wake-up beverage. Participants are also reminded that parking lot burnouts are prohibited.
Last chance to purchase Brandon Hometown Hero banners
This Saturday, Aug. 1, is the final day to purchase a banner for the Brandon Hometown Heroes program.
Eligible veterans need to have lived in Brandon, be associated with the Brandon community or a past/present member of the VFW.
If you are a veteran, or would like to honor a veteran, applications (with payment) must be submitted by Saturday, Aug. 1. Cost is $150 per banner. Good, quality photos are required. Photos, with the form may be emailed to vfw4726commander@gmail.com or editor@bvjournal.info. Checks should be made payable to the Ed Polzine Fund. Application forms are available at both the VFW, 321 S. Main or the Brandon Valley Journal, 1404 E. Cedar St.
The banners will be displayed through Veteran’s Day in November, and will be displayed each year following until they are no longer in good condition.
Brandon Pool open for season
The Brandon Community Pool will close for the season on Sunday, Aug. 16.
Daily open swim is from 1-4:30 p.m. and 6:30-8:50 p.m.
Family swim time is 5-6:20 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Lap swim is from 5-5:45 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
And water aerobics is 5:45-6:30 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Before you go, keep the following in mind:
• Notifications for weather delays, closures, swimming lessons cancellations are made via the city’s text notification system.
• Memberships are available for purchase online. No nannies or grandparents are included on family memberships; they must have their own.
• Membership key tags must be brought to the pool. Users who do not have the key tag, will be required to pay the daily fee or not enter the pool. Pool cashiers will not search membership names.
• Inflatable devices, including inflatable swimsuits, are not allowed.
• Food and drink are allowed in the pool area except for alcohol, glass or breakable products.
• Children under 7 years of age must be supervised by someone at least 16 years old. For the complete list of rules and fees, visit cityofbrandon.org/pool. To learn more, call City Hall at (605) 582-6515 or email parksandrec@cityofbrandon.org. The phone number for the pool is (605) 582-7555.
Valley Springs launches ‘Donuts & Coffee with the City’
The City of Valley Springs is kicking off a new monthly tradition: Thursday morning coffee! The first event is at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 10 at City Hall.
The Thursday after each monthly City Commission meeting, residents can gather for a relaxed morning with free coffee and good conversation. At our first Thursday Morning Coffee, free donuts will be provided.
