Flu Outbreak Reaches 'Intense' Levels Across Region

You can't be in front of your computer 24 hours a day, so each weekend, Patch reviews the top recent stories from throughout the region.

Here's a look at stories, which first appeared on this site or those of our our neighbors across the South Metro, that may interest you or affect your life. To read the full story, click on the headline link.

South Metro

UPDATE: Flu Floods Fairview Ridges With Patients—State Death Toll Tops 27

Hospital officials report that a surge in flu patients has left the medical center in Burnsville with few empty beds.

Apple Valley-Rosemount

Sold! Seven Space Age Homes in Apple Valley

Of the nine homes sold over the last week, seven date from the 1960s to 1980s.

Apple Valley-Rosemount's Most Striking Photos of 2012

As we head into the new year, Apple Valley-Rosemount Patch takes one last look back at 2012, a year that was by turns joyful, inspiring and sad.

Burnsville

Two billboards along I-35 will soon go digital, a change that took four meetings and hours of sometimes heated discussion.

MGM Liquor will pour $1 million into the store at 3050 Highway 13 West.

Nguyen Sworn In—New Era Begins at City Hall

Tuesday night, Suzanne Nguyen took the place of veteran Council Member Dan Gustafson, who bowed out of a bid for re-election in June of 2012.

While reviewing Burnsville High's newest course offerings, Principal Dave Helke outlined a plan to consolidate registration and transcripts for grades 9 through 12.

Eagan

Dakota County officials, Eagan City Council members and a handful of local business owners sparred over the future of a busy portion of Pilot Knob Road on Tuesday night.

Lakeville Resident Opening Indoor Playground in Eagan

The recreation facility, Good Times Park, will feature a basketball court, inflatable games, artificial turf and other amenities, according to owner Bonnie O'Meara.

Inver Grove Heights

IGH Woman Takes Part in Klondike Kate Competition

Rochelle (Shelley) Rosvold Brown was one of five contestants who sought to be the St. Paul Winter Carnival's "Ambassador of Fun." Anita Elizabeth Mack of St. Paul took home the title Wednesday night.

Most Recent Inver Grove Heights, South St. Paul Deaths: Jan. 7, 2013

Remembering those who have passed away.

Lakeville

Holly Ryan, a school psychologist at Lakeville's Kenwood Trail Middle School, flew to her hometown of Newtown, CT, along with a service dog, to help victims of the tragedy cope.

Roz Peterson was named School Board chair at Tuesday night's meeting—which was also the first for Board Member-elect Terry Lind.

Lakeville's 2013 City Council Outlines Process to Fill Vacant Seat

Residents have until Jan. 24 to apply to fill the open City Council seat; review will be held Jan. 29 with a final selection will be made in February.

Mendota Heights

House Hunt: What's New on the Market in Mendota Heights?

New listings offer new opportunities for house hunters in the area.

Northfield

Minnesota Legislature: How This Session Could Affect Schools

In this week's video, Superintendent Chris Richardson talks about the Minnesota Legislature starting its new session and how it could affect Northfield schools.

Burst Pipe Causes Prairie Creek Community School to Close

Prairie Creek Community School was Thursday and Friday after a sprinkler line burst Wednesday, according to director Simon Tyler.

Minnesota Twins Caravan Coming to Northfield

The visit in Northfield will be part of the first day of the 53rd annual trip.

Shakopee

Shakopee Mdewakanton Award $302,500 in Grants

Education and youth grants given to 13 organizations.