COMMUNITY GUIDE 2022-2023
GROWTH POTENTIAL NEW HOUSING NEW SCHOOL TOWN HISTORY BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Photo by Vince Danh, 4Front Productions www.baltic.govoffice.com
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values F I R S T
Family
Independence & Innovation Relationships Stewardship Te a m w o r k If your values align with ours, stop by our location at 202 St Olaf Avenue, call us at (605) 782-5940, or apply online at fnbsf.com.
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BALTIC SOUTH DAKOTA COMMUNITY GUIDE 2022-23
FROM THE MAYOR
TELL THE STORY OF OUR BELOVED TOWN On behalf of Baltic City Hall, it is my pleasure to introduce to you our first-ever edition of the Baltic Community Guide. With a population of just over 1,200, a rich history and proximity to the largest city in South Dakota, Baltic is a wonderful place to call home. It has been a well-kept secret for so many years. This guide is just the beginning of telling the story of our beloved little town.
Deborah McIsaac, Mayor City of Baltic
Setting the foundation of all things Baltic, we begin to showcase what is easy to see. We celebrate our strong school system, our developing residential neighborhoods and our growing commercial opportunities. The approved school bond is a solid investment in our future. Multiple residential projects lay the foundation to grow our households by an additional 25 percent. A focused strategy of commercial development will provide much needed services and amenities. If you ask, what makes our little town so special? You’ll probably get a wealth of different answers from our citizens. I personally believe it comes down to a feeling: a diverse group of citizens who genuinely want to Make Baltic Better. We can all agree that strong families make wholesome communities. Caring neighbors make safe communities. Active citizens make vibrant communities. We encourage volunteerism and celebrate when we find ways to create a sense of accomplishment and belonging. We look out for one another. We have fun.
Respectfully serving families in Baltic since 1928.
Baltic City Hall is committed to working with the community to ensure we effectively serve our citizens, neighborhoods, and businesses to help all succeed while nurturing our strong sense of home. Our first year as your new council has three goals: open communication, fiscal responsibility and to welcome active citizenship.
BALTIC
180 St. Olaf Ave. 605.529.5411
DELL RAPIDS
104 East 4th St. 605.428.4200
COLTON
So page through this first edition, enjoy the stories, learn more about your community, and advocate your local businesses. Let this guide be your resource. Share with your friends and those who may consider Baltic as their new home or just a great place to visit.
205 East 4th St. 605.446.3246
GARRETSON
101 South Leslie Dr. 605.594.3700
Together we are building our story. For we are all Baltic, building tomorrow’s dreams today. Respectfully,
Deborah McIsaac
www.minnehahafuneralhome.com
Deborah McIsaac, Mayor City of Baltic
www.baltic.govoffice.com
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CONTENTS Mayor’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Welcome to Baltic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Baltic Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Baltic City Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Someday Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Grant Park Addition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Baltic Churches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Baltic History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
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Alliance Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Baltic Lutheran Parish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 County Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Dave & Co. Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 DeSmet Farm Mutual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 First National Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Grant Park Capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Gutter Clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Hofer Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 M&L Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Minnehaha Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 My Classic Corner C Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Nuts n Stuff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 R Place Kennel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Reliabank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Renner Corner Locker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Roto Rooter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Someday Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
BALTIC SOUTH DAKOTA “The Baltic Community Guide” is published annually by AGE Media & Promotion in partnership with the City of Baltic, Baltic Area Development Foundation and Sioux Metro Growth Alliance. Age Media & Promotion | www.agemedia.pub PUBLISHERS Garrett and Mindy Gross, AGE Media | (515) 231-9367 EDITOR Bob Fitch, AGE Media | (712) 551-4123 | bob@agemedia.pub PHOTOGRAPHERS Vince Danh, 4Front Productions; Marissa Whipple
reliabank.com
ADVERTISING SALES Garrett Gross, AGE Media | (515) 231-9367 garrett@agemedia.pub
Sioux Falls | Colton | Hartford | Humboldt | Tea Estelline | Hayti | Hazel | Watertown 4
© AGE Media & Promotion All rights reserved. Content in this magazine should not be copied in any way without the written permission of the publisher. Content in articles, editorial and advertisements are not necessarily endorsed by AGE Media & Promotion.
BALTIC SOUTH DAKOTA COMMUNITY GUIDE 2022-23
Thank You FOR YOUR SERVICE!
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It’s our way to say Thank You! Baltic couple Hayden and McKayla Kerkaert
We are proud to be a Homes for Heroes® Real Estate Team. You can rely on the Dave & Co. Real Estate Team for your Homes for Heroes® real estate rewards and buying and selling a home needs.
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(605) 951-3551 Facebook.com/LarsonSells
Back, Left to Right: Chase Hoffman, Brad Zomer, Josh Fiedler, Jason Zomer,Jamie Zomer Front, Left to Right: John Mallinger, Sheila Brown, Amy Larson, Dave Larson, Joelle Nyenhuis
Hartford Office: 304 SD HWY 38, Suite 110 Hartford, SD 57033
Sioux Falls Office: 6225 S Minnesota Avenue Sioux Falls, SD 57108
Homes for Heroes® Inc. is a licensed real estate company in the state of South Dakota | ©2022 Homes for Heroes®. All Rights Reserved. Hero Rewards® not available in all states. Cash back amounts are estimates. The actual Hero Rewards amount may vary based on sale price of home (less appropriate credits) and in special circumstances, including, but not limited to, new construction and For Sale By Owner sales. Hero Rewards offers are limited and/or restricted in Alaska, Kansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. You m ust be enrolled with Homes for Heroes and be represented at closing by a Homes for Heroes real estate affiliate to be eligible for Hero Rewards. Contact Homes for Heroes for further details.
www.baltic.govoffice.com
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Welcome toBaltic! BUILDING TOMORROW’S DREAMS TODAY
The city of Baltic has all the benefits of small town living plus easy access to the amenities of city life. Even as new families move to town, Baltic is committed to retaining its position as
Photo by Vince Danh, 4Front Studios.
a classic example of small town Americana. The entrepreneurial spirit in Baltic is strong. Home-based businesses such as Wildflower Boutique and Gutter Clean are somewhat invisible, yet important pieces of a strong local economy. Main Street also has new life with businesses such as Someday Café and long-term staples like Alliance Communications. In addition, great home sites are available in established neighborhoods such as Baltic Heights and Valley View, as well as in new developments near the high school. Every town has its own identity, culture, strengths, and challenges. At the same time, certain fundamentals are necessary to enhance the quality of life and attract both businesses and new residents. These fundamentals include regional connectivity; vibrant education programs and facilities; strong transportation infrastructure; advanced health care access; adequate child care; recreation, arts and culture; and safety. Fortunately, the city of Baltic has assets in place to meet all of those challenges and opportunities. REGIONAL CONNECTIVITY AND COLLABORATION The city of Baltic and the Baltic Area Development Foundation are at the forefront of enhancing the city’s assets. Baltic is a member of the Sioux Metro Growth Alliance. SMGA works holistically, based on the unique needs
Entrepreneurs come in all sizes in Baltic. Photo by Marissa Whipple.
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BALTIC SOUTH DAKOTA COMMUNITY GUIDE 2022-23
of Baltic and other local communities to develop, retain and expand business; to spur residential developments to support a growing workforce; and to increase the tax base and sales tax revenue which funds local services and infrastructure. Homegrown economic opportunities are best exploited by identifying and leveraging Baltic’s assets and knowledge – along with the assets and knowledge of neighboring communities, small and large. Baltic is perfectly positioned to leverage the commercial growth of Sioux Falls, being minutes away from employment centers like downtown and Foundation Park. VIBRANT EDUCATION •
Baltic School District is one of South Dakota’s top schools, providing services from pre-K through 12th grade. A recent bond issue to build a new $29 million high school passed overwhelmingly. Learn more about Baltic schools on pages 10-11.
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Colleges and universities on the doorstep. Baltic lies in a nexus of some of the Midwest’s
The Baltic community garden on the grounds of the Baltic School District. Photo by Marissa Whipple.
most honored institutions: South Dakota State University in Brookings; Dakota State University in Madison; and – in Sioux Falls – Southeast Technical College, the University of Sioux Falls, Augustana University, and the University of South Dakota metro campus. Just across the border to the east are Minnesota West Community & Technical College and Southwest Minnesota State University.
> edwardjones.com | Member SIPC
1002 North Hwy 77 | Proudly Serving Baltic Since 1998 | Dell Rapids, SD 57022 www.baltic.govoffice.com
605-428-5451 countyfairfoods.com 7
STRONG TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE •
Baltic sits minutes away from the intersection of Interstates 29 and 90 – two of the most important regional and national arteries in the country’s supply chain.
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U.S Highway 75 is 35 miles to the east; and U.S. Highway 14 is 35 miles north.
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Rail service by BNSF.
ADVANCED HEALTH CARE ACCESS •
One of South Dakota’s original entrepreneurs saw Baltic’s potential when he built a dam and the St. Olaf Roller Mill at this site in the 1880s. Photo by Vince Danh, 4Front Studios.
Just minutes away, Sioux Falls is home to a nationally-recognized regional hub of medical professionals at Sanford Health, Avera Health and the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine. The Sioux Falls area is also home to specialty hospitals and clinics and dozens of family practice physicians.
CHILD CARE Lil Tot Stop, The Playhouse Childcare Center, and private in-home daycares in Baltic provide families with quality and trustworthy childcare. RECREATION, ARTS AND CULTURE
Agriculture and agribusiness continue to be important components of the economy in the Baltic area. Photo by Marissa Whipple.
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Baltic High School has a renowned fine arts program including the annual Christmas Madrigals.
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The “Dog Days” community festival brings families together the second weekend of August.
tuff S
BALTIC SOUTH DAKOTA COMMUNITY GUIDE 2022-23
SAFETY
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Baltic has five city parks, a campground, and a disc golf course.
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A community fitness center located at Baltic schools is available for citizens.
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Legends of Gold has a wrestling program and facility in Baltic.
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The Baltic American Legion is planning a Veteran’s Memorial and hosts fun community events including meat bingo throughout the year.
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Summer t-ball, softball, and baseball programs are offered. At River Park Field, Baltic has hosted State Teener Baseball Tournaments.
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The Baltic Library is an extension of the Siouxland Library System, giving residents the network of a larger library.
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Nearby Sioux Falls has an active theatre community and world-renowned artists regularly in concert.
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Historical attractions and museums are minutes away in Sioux Falls, Brookings and Pipestone, Minn.
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Royal River Casino and Grand Falls Casino are nearby, featuring gaming fun and a variety of nationally-known music and comedy performers.
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Baltic traditionally has a very low crime rate. Municipal police protection is provided by the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Department.
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Baltic has a dedicated corps of volunteers serving as fire fighters and an emergency medical response team.
BALTIC, SOUTH DAKOTA •
Population: 1,250
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Location: 15 miles north of Sioux Falls on the banks of the Big Sioux River.
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Housing: Baltic Heights, Grant Park Addition and Phillip’s Crossing all have housing available. More than 93 percent of the population live in single family dwellings. There are over 20 multi-unit housing units available with more being constructed. Apartment complexes also offer alternative housing options. REFERENCE SOURCES: • Sioux Metro Growth Alliance. www.siouxmetro.com • McKinsey Company, McKinsey Global Institute. tinyurl.com/5a49xxts • National League of Cities, Rural Community Assistance Partnership. tinyurl.com/4wy5ve99 • Site Selection magazine. tinyurl.com/ybtkt9a5 • The Center for American Progress. tinyurl.com/7kpfkkjc
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BALTIC SCHOOL DISTRICT
One of South Dakota’s top schools, providing services from pre-K through 12th grade. The school has a vast amount of class offerings for students on campus, as well as learning agreements in place so high school students can take online classes for college credits and in-person classes at the Sioux Falls Career & Technical Education Academy.
Photos by Marissa Whipple 10
BALTIC SOUTH DAKOTA COMMUNITY GUIDE 2022-23
The Baltic School District will soon add a new high school wing. Photo by Vince Danh, 4Front Productions.
Photo by Marissa Whipple
FORWARD FOCUSED
TEACHER-STUDENT RATIO
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Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 to 15.6
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A recent bond issue passed overwhelmingly, demonstrating the local commitment to excellence in educational facilities and the value local parents place on their children’s enrichment. The $29 million bond will fund a new high school and remodeling to the existing facilities for use by elementary and middle school students. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2023 with the new school to open in the fall of 2024.
ACADEMICS •
Course opportunities include onsite, online, dual credit, distance learning and advanced placement.
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Basic and advanced classes in English, science, mathematics and social science.
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Life skills and career preparation through courses such as business, computer programming, robotics, genetics, zoology, agricultural science and business, and family and consumer science.
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Fine arts including art, band and chorus.
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Career internships.
Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 to 15.0 High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 to 14.1 ENROLLMENT The growth in the district’s enrollment has been consistent over the past 20 years. From 2011-12 to 2021-22, enrollment has grown from 412 students to 561. Enrollment is projected to be 800 by 2031-32. ENROLLMENT BY GRADE Jr. Kindergarten . . . . . . . . . . 16
Grade 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Kindergarten . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Grade 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Grade 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Grade 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Grade 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Grade 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Grade 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Grade 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Grade 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 K-5 Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264
SPORTS Football
Girls Basketball
Golf
Volleyball
Boys Basketball
Track and Field
Cross Country
Cheer
Wrestling
9-12 Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
Out-of-district . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Total Enrollment . . . . . . . 561
Grade 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Grade 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Grade 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 6-8 Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
www.baltic.govoffice.com
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BALTIC’S FAMILYFRIENDLY PARKS An aerial view of the baseball diamond and the Big Sioux River at River Park in Baltic. Photo by Vince Danh, 4Front Studios.
The city of Baltic features five municipal parks and more public park area is planned in the Grant Park Addition. River Park is located west of the Big Sioux River and north of Lovely Avenue. It features a lighted baseball diamond, concession facilities, playground, restrooms, picnicking and fishing. River Park Campground offers 21 campsites with electrical hookup. Reservations may be made by calling 605-529-5497. Baltic Heights Park is located on 15 acres on the northeast side of town and includes six picnic shelters, two agri-lime ball diamonds, a 9-hole disc golf
Baltic Heights Park includes playground equipment, picnic shelters, two ball diamonds, a disc golf course, and a sand volleyball court. Photo by Marissa Whipple.
course, and a sand volleyball court. Centennial Park is along Lovely Avenue and features an Avenue of Flags, Murphy’s Pond, a gazebo, and picnicking. Berg Park is a small neighborhood park with playground equipment and is located near 3rd St. on Elm Ave. Tower Park is located at the base of the water tower and features various playground equipment.
The Avenue of Flags at Centennial Park in Baltic. Photo by Marissa Whipple. 12
BALTIC SOUTH DAKOTA COMMUNITY GUIDE 2022-23
The gazebo next to Murphy’s Pond in Centennial Park. Photos by Marissa Whipple.
100% The sledding hill on the Baltic School District grounds is not part of the municipal park system, but is fun nonetheless.
Fun on the playground equipment at Baltic Heights Park.
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LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS
HOT FOOD, WARM FRIENDSHIPS AT SOMEDAY CAFE
Kim and Mike Frerichs are owners of the Someday Café. Photos by Vince Danh, 4Front Studios.
By Garrett Gross
In every small town there is a place where people congregate. It’s often a location where a sense of community is built, relationships are formed, and friendships are strengthened.
“It got to the point where people would see me carrying materials inside the building, and they’d ask me ‘When are you going to open,” said Mike. ”My response was always the same, ‘Well, someday.”’
In some towns, the gathering place is the barber shop or a local hairstylist. In other towns, it’s the bowling alley or a coffee shop. In Baltic, it’s the Someday Cafe.
That “someday” finally came in June of 2018 and the Someday Cafe has been a success ever since!
When Mike and Kim Frerichs acquired the building on St. Olaf Avenue 12 years ago, they envisioned running a restaurant where Baltic residents could meet up. However, the time and sweat equity needed to turn an old building into what it is today was not as quick and smooth a path as they thought it would be. For years, Mike and Kim would work on remodeling the building with their long-term goal in mind.
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Starting a new business is always a challenge, but considering Mike’s experience working in food service for Avera for 39 years, his culinary knowledge base far exceeded the normal start-up restaurant business. Mike makes all the soup, gravy and desserts from scratch. The day to day operations are a total family affair; Mike handles the kitchen; Kim runs the business side; and two of their daughters, Kimber and Danielle, wait tables and interact with customers. The roles sometimes intermingle to make sure the
BALTIC SOUTH DAKOTA COMMUNITY GUIDE 2022-23
business runs smoothly. “When we first opened, we wanted to make sure our customers knew that we appreciated them. We wanted to call them by their first names and make them feel important,” he said. “We actually used one of the local church directories which listed the name and faces of many of our customers.” Over time, those customers became repeat guests and Mike and Kim didn’t need to check the directory as frequently. The cafe is currently only open for lunch and dinner, Thursday through Saturday. The reason for the limited hours is two-fold. First, it’s been said that absence makes the heart grow fonder, and for the patrons of the Someday Cafe, this rings true. Secondly, as the community grows, it just makes more sense to follow the current approach and produce the best food possible for the days
they are open instead of lowering their standards. In time, the Frerichs will evaluate being open more days a week, but for now the system works very well.
Trust Your Local
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The Someday Cafe has built a reputation as a great smalltown, family cafe – just what Mike and Kim set out to do when they originally opened. They have daily lunch specials with hot beef being served every Friday and they rotate other items like Swedish meatballs, lasagna or BBQ ribs on other days. “We are known for our hot beef. People really appreciate our large portions and folks don’t go home hungry,” Kim said.
Over 25 Years Experience
“Customers also really like our BBQ ribs. I make my own rub and follow a very specific process to cook them properly. The only downside is that rarely are there any ribs left over for me personally. I guess I’ll just survive on compliments,” Mike joked.
James Hofer, Owner/ Founder
Someday Cafe will soon expand its bar area to allow more seating and drink offerings. The restaurant will also expand the number of days it’s open plus add to the hours of operation. To keep track of the changes, ask the staff when dining and follow the cafe on Facebook. The Someday Cafe has become more than a gathering place for Baltic area residents; it has become a place of small town family values which make Baltic a great place to live.
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COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
The Grant Park Addition in Baltic is located in the distance, just to the left of the top of the water tower. Note the close proximity to Baltic schools on the middle left. Photo by Vince Danh, 4Front Studios.
NEW HOMES, NEW BIKE PATH, NEW PARK IN BALTIC A hidden gem in Minnehaha County is adding some extra shine. The hidden gem is Baltic and the new shine is the Phillips Crossing and Grant Park Addition housing development which has 126 single-family dwelling lots. The Grant Park Addition sits on Baltic’s southeastern corner just a short walk from the Baltic school. Phillips Crossing is on the eastern side of town. Both areas feature a variety of lot sizes and the overall approach is welcoming to people regardless of the stage of life they are in. So far, several houses have been built; several more are under construction; and about 20 percent of the available lots have been sold. One of the best features of the project is it’s being spearheaded 16
by local citizens who have a keen interest in seeing the community and school district grow. Brian Hefty, CEO of Hefty Seed Co. of Baltic, and his wife, Jenny, were inspired to found Grant Park Capital and pursue the housing development because of everything the community has meant to their family. “I went to school and my kids went to school in Baltic. Our family has been here a long time, and we just want the city and school to do well,” Brian said. Mike Wendland brings a lot of pertinent experience and passion to the project. In addition to a three-decade career at CitiBank, Mike was the mayor of Baltic for 18
BALTIC SOUTH DAKOTA COMMUNITY GUIDE 2022-23
years and then spent two years as its first city administrator. “I bleed blue and gold. I grew up in Baltic, I went to school in Baltic. I snuck away to Augie for a little bit to get my degree, but came right back to Baltic. I just have a passion for this city. I want to help Baltic continue to grow. It’s kind of a little hidden secret out here.” For years, Sioux Falls pushed residential and commercial expansion and development to the south (and east and west), but rarely north. That reality gives Baltic and other towns to the north the advantage of avoiding some of the lessons learned the hard way in other communities surrounding
Sioux Falls. Consequently, city leaders and a developer like Grant Park Capital are able to take a “smart growth” approach. Rather than a phased development, Brian decided it would be more cost-efficient to put in all the road and utility infrastructure at one time, which also provides the benefit of allowing prospective homeowners to choose a lot anywhere in the development. Brian did the rough design of the development and then two engineering firms were hired for all the survey and detail work. Mike’s background put him in a position to do the time-consuming leg work with the city, including planning and zoning. Mike is proud that in less than two years’ time, Grant Park Capital turned 53 acres of pasture into 126 residential, single-family lots with water, sewer, gutter, streetlights and other elements of infrastructure. Many people are surprised to learn cities don’t pay for upfront infrastructure costs in a new development. Rather, it’s the developer’s risk and responsibility to secure the financing and pay for infrastructure design, engineering and construction. A paved biking and walking path weaves through the landscape. “We have strategically placed the bike path to allow movement between the two developments, plus access to the park and school,” Mike said. The bike path is 10 feet wide with 10 feet of green space on either side. There’s space set aside for a park – plus designated space for city snow plow operators to push the snow from cul-de-sacs. “We dedicated the space because we know it will be helpful to the city and residents.” Based on growth such as this
development, new service and retail businesses are already planning to come to town. Not only will these services and retailers benefit current residents as well as the new ones, but those businesses represent jobs, revenue, tax dollars and property taxes which will stay here. Mike said new homes in the development will also be a good recruiting tool for the teachers who join the growing Baltic School District. Furthermore, some people in Sioux Falls who already know and love small towns will find Baltic and its new development to be the right fit. For decades, Sioux Falls has been a job magnet in fields such as health care, finance, construction, retail and agriculture. Many of the people filling those positions enjoy living in Sioux Falls, but others yearn for their families to have the same small town experience they enjoyed growing up. Finally, having a local developer means money will stay in town to the benefit of the school district, city and other local organizations. Since its inception, Grant Park has fully or partially funded several city and school projects including adding a sidewalk/bike path for school students, re-grading a road for better and safer sightlines, securing the final piece of land the school needed for the addition of its new high school, and working together
with the school on a landscape beautification project. According to Brian, “What’s good for the town ends up being good for all of us. There are a lot of challenges in rural America and, if we can help, we want to do it.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION www.grantpark.capital Mike Wendland: 605-351-2210 mike@grantpark.capital Jenny Hefty: 605-351-4599 jenny@grantpark.capital
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BALTIC SOUTH DAKOTA COMMUNITY GUIDE 2022-23
BALTIC CHURCHES
Baltic Lutheran
The Baltic and East Nidaros Lutheran Churches are two of the four churches with roots in the Nidaros Church which was organized in 1868. In 1957-58, the Baltic Lutheran Church and the East Nidaros Lutheran Church formed the Baltic Lutheran Parish. Randall Questad serves as the pastor of the parish. Baltic Lutheran 301 Nidaros Ave Worship: Sunday at 9:00 a.m.
East Nidaros Church
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East Nidaros Church 47560 252nd St Worship: Sunday at 10:30 a.m.
Video of services can be found on YouTube
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KEEPING LOCAL HISTORY ALIVE
Left: A commemorative plate from Baltic’s centennial which shows the St. Olaf Roller Mill. Photo courtesy of Siouxland Heritage Museums. Above: A recent photo showing the dam and foundation remnants of the St. Olaf Roller Mill. Photo by Marissa Whipple.
THE EARLY DAYS ON THE BANKS OF THE SIOUX RIVER The town of Baltic, South Dakota, was founded in 1881 at the metaphorical intersection of Scandinavian pioneers and the Milwaukee Railroad. While the first settlers were in the area by 1866, it wasn’t until after the legendary “long winter” of 1880-1881 that the Milwaukee Railroad laid down track between Dell Rapids and Sioux Falls. A train weigh station was established at what is now Baltic. The weigh station’s spot on the map was originally known as St. Olaf. The eventual town was also briefly known as Keyes before adopting the name Baltic, so named after settlers who came from the area of the Baltic Sea, an arm of the Atlantic Ocean which borders several Scandinavian countries. The area surrounding Baltic was 20
populated mostly by Scandinavians, many of whom were immigrants from the northern parts of Norway, particularly from Trondhjem. Development quickly followed the railroad north. Beginning in 1881, Sioux Falls land developer, entrepreneur and politician Richard F. Pettigrew began building a dam and the St. Olaf Roller Mill on the Big Sioux River. In the fall of 1884, the mill was ready for operation. The mill produced both flour and power. At its peak, the roller mill produced 120 barrels of flour per day; plus the power generated by the mill supplied electricity to Baltic and Dell Rapids until it ceased operation in 1916. Not long after the roller mill was put into operation, new businesses
BALTIC SOUTH DAKOTA COMMUNITY GUIDE 2022-23
followed. An 1884 storm destroyed the general store, but it was quickly re-built. The same storm attacked a rural school 10 miles east of Baltic. Occupied by the teacher and 21 students, the school building was blown off its foundation and driven about a half mile by the forceful winds of the storm. Strangely, no one was seriously injured and the building was just slightly damaged. The first school house in town was built in 1890. A dozen or so years later, the town had four elevators, four general stores, two hardware stores, two implement dealers, a bank, creamery, drug store, lumberyard, barber shop, meat market, hotel, restaurant, millinery, clothier, doctor, dentist, livery stable, school and churches.
ANSWERS FOR YOUR NEXT GAME OF BALTIC TRIVIA: •
Baltic was formally incorporated in 1907. The first ordinance adopted by the city’s board of trustees allowed for the prosecution of illegal sale of intoxicating liquor within town limits. Ordinance #2 was for the purposes of prosecuting drunkenness.
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In 1910, the city authorized $1,500 to purchase equipment to get the fire department started.
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There were six students in Baltic High School’s first graduating class in 1925.
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The first rural telephone lines in the Baltic area were built in 1902.
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Baltic’s first bank, Dakota State Bank, began operations in 1902 with starting capital of $10,000.
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Baltic’s first 4-H Club was formed in 1917 by Miss Eva Bickel at the Hilmoe School west of Baltic.
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M.B. Smemoe, distressed about the rising costs of funerals, organized the Minnehaha Burial Association in the mid-1920s. Family memberships were sold at $10 per share and operations began in late 1928. The organization’s name was changed to the Minnehaha Funeral Home in 1955.
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During World War II, customers at the E&M Café paid a nickel for a cup of coffee and 25-35 cents for a meal. They sweetened their coffee with “Norwegian aspirins” (sugar lumps).
Farmers making deliveries to the Baltic Farmers Co-op Creamery, circa 1929. Photo courtesy of Siouxland Heritage Museums.
The Baltic Farmers Elevator, circa 1929. Photo courtesy of Siouxland Heritage Museums.
Finally, in Baltic’s 1981 centennial publication, an anonymous writer offered a tongue-in-cheek salute to the vicinity’s Norwegian heritage. Here’s the first two of 11 stanzas: Dis Baltic am one fine good place Believe me ven I say Dat near dis grand place I vas born Undt here, you bat, I’ll shtay. Der trade in Baltic it been good Und business it been fine Und in der stores der is der shtuff Dot keep der town in line. Baltic school under construction. The building is now home to AT Analytical. Photo courtesy South Dakota State Historical Society.
SOURCE: Baltic Centennial 1881-1981. From the papers of Martin B. Smemoe.
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BALTIC BUSINESS DIRECTORY ALLIANCE COMMUNICATIONS 605-529-5454 www.alliancecom.net AMERICAN LEGION #175 605-212-9932 210 St Olaf Ave AT ANALYTICAL 605-529-5177 www.rxcleanroom.com AMERICAN HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING 605-530-1792 B&K BARBECUE 605-215-7045 Find us on Facebook BALTIC LUTHERAN CHURCH 605-529-5471 301 Nidaros Ave www.balticandeastnidaros.org BALTIC SCHOOL DISTRICT 605-529-5464 1 Bulldog Ave www.balticschool.org BARGAIN BASEMENT 605-321-3523 228 St. Olaf Ave Find us on Facebook BOADWINE FARMS INC 605-361-3352 Find us on Facebook CITY OF BALTIC 605-529-5497 120 St. Olaf Ave www.baltic.govoffice.com CLASSIC CORNER 605-529-5559 200 Lovely Ave www.myclassiccorner.com
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COMMUNICARE LLC Dr. Francis C Bandettini 605-529-5271 508 Lovely Ave www.drbandettini.com CREATIVE CAKES 605-359-3814 Find us on Facebook DYCE LIVESTOCK INC 605-366-9941 EAST NIDAROS LUTHERAN CHURCH 605-529-5471 47560 252nd St www.balticandeastnidaros.org ENGLUND CO 605-351-2246 FIRST NATIONAL BANK 605-782-5940 202 St Olaf Ave www.fnbsf.com FRIENDLY’S (CC&F RETAIL) 605-529-5800 47155 250th St www.friendlysfuelstop.com
HUBERS ELECTRIC 605-529-6560 LEGENDS OF GOLD 99 Morefield Ave 605-957-7707 LIL TOT STOP 605-529-5326 236 St Olaf Ave LOVELY AVE SELF STORAGE 605-529-5438 M & L CONSTRUCTION 605-940-5442 www.mandlconstructionsd.com MDT PROPERTIES 605-940-5442 Rentals & Storage MIDWAY SERVICE – VOLLAN OIL 605-529-5458 25402 475th Ave www.vollanoil.com MILTON OPLAND ELECTRIC 605-529-5594
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MINNEHAHA FUNERAL HOME 605-529-5411 180 St Olaf Ave www.minnehahafuneralhome.com
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BALTIC SOUTH DAKOTA COMMUNITY GUIDE 2022-23
NUTS & STUFF 605-201-8050 413 Kringen Ave Find us on Facebook PERFORMANCE PAINT & BODY 605-529-6181 47165 250th St www.performancepaint.net
RAVEN INDUSTRIES 800-243-5435 www.ravenind.com RETREAT AT POINTER’S RIDGE 605-929-3212 47303 Big Sioux Rd www.pointersridge.org/retreat-on-the-river REV CONSULTING 605-838-5735 Revconsulting.com RT EQUIPMENT 605-359-0228 25224 475th Ave www.rt-equipment.com SIMPLY FRESH CLEANING 605-521-4600 www.simplyfreshclean.com SIOUXLAND LIBRARIES 605-367-8700 213 St Olaf Ave www.siouxlandlib.org
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BALTIC, SD Nestled on the southeastern side of town, Grant Park and Phillips Crossing neighborhoods in Baltic offer great views and are conveniently located near the future site of the new Baltic High School and a paved bike path or a park. Choose the size of a lot that meets your needs, a house under construction and soon move-in ready or pick your builder and add the house of your dreams.
Grant Park Capital, LLC. features the two newest housing developments in the Baltic community: Phillips Crossing and Grant Park Addition.
www.grantpark.capital FOR FULL DETAILS, CONTACT US TODAY! mike@grantpark.capital | 605.351.2210 jenny@grantpark.capital | 605.351.4599
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BALTIC SOUTH DAKOTA COMMUNITY GUIDE 2022-23
