Tim Nicolai, owner of the Arena Motel in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, finds himself and his wife Nancy on the Oprah show for ‘acts of kindness.’

Needless to say, the Oprah Effect brings a massive media spotlight and tons of free publicity for the motel.

The background is that the Nicolais, along with a handful of other Sioux Falls motels, are part of a $1 million campaign by Minnehaha County which helps the homeless with rents, depsoits and emergency lodging. The County reimburses the motels at $40-$45 per night.

But it’s not all about money. In fact, the Arena Motel has gained a lot of fame, even before it landed up on People magazine, for being the go-to place if you’re homeless and in or around Sioux Falls. Tim Nicolai says the motel doesn’t keep track of how many homeless they’re helping.

So now you know where to go if you’re ripped off and left penniless while on Sioux Falls vacations. The 26-room Arena Motel, with 4 family-friendly rooms with cribs and hotplates,  is located at 2401 W Russell St Sioux Falls, SD 57104; (605) 336-1470. They don’t have a website as yet.

Related Links:-
Oprah casts national eye on motel with a heart - ArgusLeader.com
They open their motel to the homeless - People

Posted on May 19th, 2009 by PLing
Filed under: Travel News