Chamber News April 2015
Vol. 50, No. 7
A PUBLICATION OF THE SIOUX FALLS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
YPN GROWS TO 1,000 MEMBERS IN SIX YEARS
IN THIS ISSUE COVER STORY
Young professionals impact community... 24-29
Chamber News PUBLISHER
FEATURES
Meet the Sioux Falls School Board candidates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 DakotAbilities kicks off Opening Doors campaign. . . . . . . . . . 34-35 IN EVERY ISSUE: Message from the Chair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Events Calendars. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11 Economic Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Noteworthy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Faces & Places. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-22 Community Appeals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Business Advocacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-31 Headlines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33-35 Convention & Visitors Bureau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Member Benefit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Using Your Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Member’s Voice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Business News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-43 Ribbon Cuttings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45-48 Membership Anniversaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-51 New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Five Questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 From the Archives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce CHAMBER NEWS AD SALES
ARGUS LEADER MEDIA For advertising information, call: (605) 331-2348
CHAMBER NEWS LAYOUT/DESIGN JILL BLOM
CHAMBER NEWS EDITOR
AMY SMOLIK For editorial information, call: (605) 336-1620 Chamber News is published monthly by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 1425, 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200 Sioux Falls, SD 57104 Advertising and editorial deadlines can be found at siouxfallschamber.com under News & Publications. Postmaster please send address changes to: Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 1425, 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200, Sioux Falls, SD 57101-1425 Phone: (605) 336-1620 • Email: sfacc@siouxfalls.com
CHAMBER MISSION As the leading Sioux Falls area business advocate, the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce represents its members by advancing and promoting the economic health and quality of life of the region.
Communicate WITH THE
CHAMBER .com/siouxfallschamber @SFAreaChamber @SFAreaAdvocate Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce
chambernews.com | Chamber News 3
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
Invite someone to share the benefits of Chamber membership An invitation is a powerful tool. Our community has many success stories because someone asked someone else to donate time, talent or treasure — and that someone else said yes. The culture of the Sioux Falls business community is that we all want to be on board for projects that benefit the greater good; when it comes to community progress, we’re all on the Sioux Falls team. I think that’s why we’ve seen so much success and engagement with Forward Sioux Falls. DANA DYKHOUSE 2014-15 Chair of the Board
When it comes to community progress, we’re all on the Sioux Falls team.
Like many others of my generation, I’ve benefited from someone taking the time to encourage me to get involved and inviting me to participate. Those invitations have led to numerous opportunities for me to help make an impact on my community in my personal and professional life. I look at our next generation of leaders and I’m proud of how they have stepped up to claim their seat at the table. As organizations transition leadership, it’s important we share the culture of giving and involvement that has served us so well. One of the ways the Chamber has provided opportunities for burgeoning community leaders is through our Leadership Sioux Falls program and Young Professionals Network. Next month we’ll graduate our 29th LSF class and in March, we welcomed our 1,000th YPN member. We think the culture of our Chamber of Commerce is also a valuable tool to share. I have benefited from the opportunities I’ve taken advantage of through the Chamber, from networking to discussion about issues. I know that there’s also a great value for all businesses whether you have the time or inclination to be involved — the Chamber serves as a seal of approval that says you’re an active part of the community. If you’re a Chamber member reading this, I encourage you to invite a friend or someone you do business with to learn more about us. We have a ton of events and activities (see the calendar on page 7). Our Spring Membership Drive is currently underway and we’re hoping to add 90 new members. One of our volunteer Ambassadors or staff members would be happy to share the many benefits of belonging to the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce.
2014-15 SIOUX FALLS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEADERSHIP AND STAFF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR DANA DYKHOUSE First PREMIER Bank CHAIR-ELECT PAUL BRUFLAT CNA Surety VICE CHAIR DAVE KAPASKA, D.O. Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center TREASURER J. TYLER HAAHR Metabank IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR KEITH SEVERSON Eide Bailly LLP PRESIDENT/CEO EVAN NOLTE Chamber of Commerce BOARD OF DIRECTORS RANDY BURY Sanford Health RUTH CHRISTOPHERSON Citi JULIE DARRINGTON CenturyLink GARY GASPAR Interstate Office Products JOHN HENKHAUS The Everist Company JAY HUIZENGA KELO-TV DEAN KARSKY Farmers Insurance Group/Karsky Agency BETTY OLDENKAMP Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota DAN RYKHUS Raven Industries TIM STURDEVANT Sturdevant’s Auto Parts ROB TEKOLSTE Sammons Financial Group/ Midland National Life Insurance Co. BOBBI THURY Cutler Law Firm STEVE VANBUSKIRK VanBuskirk Companies ANITA WETSCH Don Dunham III Real Estate
EX-OFFICIO KENT ALBERTY Sioux Falls School Board DR. PAM HOMAN Superintendent, Sioux Falls Public School System CINDY HEIBERGER Minnehaha County Commission MAYOR MIKE HUETHER City of Sioux Falls JIM SCHMIDT Lincoln County Commission ROBERT WEHDE Sioux Falls Catholic Schools CHAMBER & CVB STAFF EVAN NOLTE President/CEO CLAY BAK CVB Sales Manager THANE BARNIER Web Development & IT Manager MATT BARTHEL CVB First Impressions/Project Manager JOAN BARTLING Finance & Accounting Director JILL BLOM Graphics & Communications Specialist MATTIE BURNHAM CVB Director of Sales SHIRLEY BUSEMAN Receptionist CINDY CHRISTENSEN Agri-Business Division Manager RACHEL CRANE CVB Host City Manager AMY M. FARR Membership Sales & Retention Manager JEFF FEJFAR Web Designer KATE FOLEY Small Business & Leadership Development Manager LAUREN FOSHEIM Young Professionals Network (YPN) Manager
MADDIE GUTIERREZ Public Affairs & Communications Assistant JAY KALTENBACH CVB Services/Resale Manager MARK LEE Public Affairs & Communications Director PAT LUND Membership Development Director MIKE LYNCH Public Affairs & Research Manager BETSY McCARTY CVB Creative & Communications Manager NICOLE NELSON CVB Sales Manager JILL NIEDRINGHAUS CVB Sales Assistant WENDY NEUHARTH Membership Services Administrative Assistant KRISTA ORSACK CVB Director of Marketing KATHIE PUTHOFF CVB Administrative Assistant TERI SCHMIDT CVB Executive Director SUSAN SEACHRIS Administrative/Accounting Assistant LUCAS SMITH CVB Sales Manager AMY SMOLIK Marketing & Communications Manager ALEXA STEINER CVB Sales Manager VALERIE WILLSON Membership Events Manager CAROLYN WINCHELL Forward Sioux Falls Director of Investor Relations ERIN ZIMMERMAN CVB Sales Manager
chambernews.com | Chamber News 5
CALENDARS
CHAMBER
Events Calendar Dates, times and locations are subject to change. For a current listing of all Chamber events, visit siouxfallschamber.com, read the weekly edition of Quickly, or call (605) 336-1620. You can register and pay for events online at siouxfallschamber.com.
GOOD MORNING SIOUX FALLS THURSDAY, APRIL 9
7-8:30 a.m. Holiday Inn City Centre, 100 W. 8th St. DETAILS: This morning networking breakfast will share more information about upcoming road construction projects and the first six months at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center. The three candidates for two Sioux Falls Public School Board seats will also be introduced. Sponsored by the Diplomat Committee. COST: $20 (includes breakfast) RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010
APRIL CHAMBER CAFE WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15
“Census 101 Data Workshop” 7:30-9:30 a.m. Chamber of Commerce, Betty J. Ordal Conference Center DETAILS: This workshop will provide a basic overview of what data is
available from the Census Bureau, where the data comes from and how to access basic data for the Sioux Falls area. Sponsored by the Small Business Council. COST: $10 (includes breakfast) RSVP: kfoley@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2002
YPN POLICY & A PINT: NET NEUTRALITY THURSDAY, APRIL 16
5:30-7 p.m. Chef Dominique’s Catering & Banquet Facility, 230 S. Phillips Ave. DETAILS: Learn more about net neutrality and how it affects business;
FEATURED EVENT APRIL MEMBERSHIP
MIXER
Sponsored by
TUESDAY, APRIL 14
4:30-6:30 p.m. A&B Business Solutions 1600 N. A Ave. COMPLIMENTARY HORS D’OEUVRES & BEVERAGES $5 ADMISSION OR USE YOUR MIXER PASS
RSVP to vwillson@siouxfalls.com or at siouxfallschamber.com
CHAMBERHOOD-NORTHWEST DISTRICT THURSDAY, APRIL 30
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Beef O’Brady’s, 4021 Bobhalla Dr. DETAILS: Sponsored by the Diplomat Committee, Chamberhood is a
new event that will bring together businesses from the northwest part of the city for a program to learn more about the Chamber and upcoming projects taking place in their part of the city, as well as to network with neighbors and Chamber volunteers. COST: $10 (includes lunch) RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010
HIGHER EDUCATION: YOUR BUSINESS PARTNER FRIDAY, MAY 1
7:30-8:45 a.m. Avera Prairie Center, 1000 E. 23rd St. DETAILS: Leaders from Sioux Falls area higher educational institutions
will discuss how their current programs and vision will provide businesses with well-trained employees in the future. Sponsored by the Education & Workforce Development Committee. COST: $10 (includes breakfast) RSVP: mgutierrez@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2015
MAY MEMBERSHIP MIXER TUESDAY, MAY 12
sponsored by YPN. Participants include representatives from CenturyLink, Midcontinent Communications, SDN Communications, U.S. Sen. John Thune’s office and the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission. COST: Free, complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar RSVP: lfosheim@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010
4:30-6:30 p.m. Carnaval Brazilian Grill, 2401 S. Carolyn Ave. DETAILS: Sponsored by Carnaval Brazilian Grill. COST: $5 (or use your Mixer Pass) RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010
YPN 6TH BIRTHDAY BASH THURSDAY, APRIL 23
2015 ARMED FORCES DAY CEREMONIES SATURDAY, MAY 16
4-7 p.m. The District, 4521 W. Empire Pl. DETAILS: Help the YPN celebrate its 6th birthday with a social evening
at The District. COST: Free, complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar MORE INFORMATION: lfosheim@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2009
10:30 a.m.-Noon VA Health Care System grounds, 2501 W. 22nd St. DETAILS: This annual event recognizes members of the armed forces for their service. Sponsored by the Chamber’s Military & Veterans Affairs Committee. COST: Free and open to the public MORE INFORMATION: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010
chambernews.com | Chamber News 7
Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce
Young Professionals Network
UPCOMING EVENTS
To RSVP to any of these events, email lfosheim@siouxfalls.com or call (605) 373-2009. Visit siouxfallsypn.com for a full list of events.
YPN AT THE BANQUET (FULL) FRIDAY, APRIL 10
5:30-8:30 a.m. The Banquet, 900 E. 8th St. DETAILS: YPN members will serve a breakfast
meal at The Banquet. YPN is providing the food for those being served and donations are still welcome to help offset the cost of the breakfast; the suggested donation amount is $10. The volunteer slots are filled but donations are still welcome.
YPN POLICY & A PINT: NET NEUTRALITY THURSDAY, APRIL 16
RESERVATIONS FOR 6 TUESDAY, APRIL 21
2015
6-8 p.m. Tre Lounge, 601 W. 33rd St. DETAILS: Are you looking to get to know other
young professionals in the community? If so, join us for a networking dinner. No agenda, just a dinner out with your peers. Limited to the first six to RSVP.
COST: Free to attend, drinks/food are on your own.
YPN 6TH BIRTHDAY BASH THURSDAY, APRIL 23
5:30-7 p.m. Chef Dominique’s Catering & Banquet Facility, 230 S. Phillips Ave. DETAILS: Learn more about net neutrality
and how it affects business; sponsored by YPN. Participants include representatives from CenturyLink, Midcontinent Communications, SDN Communications, U.S. Sen. John Thune’s office and the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission. COST: Free, complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar
4-7 p.m. The District, 4521 W. Empire Pl. DETAILS: Help the YPN celebrate its 6th birthday with a social evening at The District. COST: Free, complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar
REGISTER BEFORE FRIDAY, APRIL 17,
to be entered to win a Downtown Sioux Falls prize package, which includes: · One night’s stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown · Gift card to Minervas · Show at the Washington Pavilion
Register today for the 2015 Crossroads Summit! Visit siouxfallsypn.com/summit2015
Connect WITH THE
YPN
.com/siouxfallsypn
Find us on social media or visit siouxfallsypn.com @siouxfallsypn
Sioux Falls Young Professionals Network
Email lfosheim@siouxfalls.com or call (605) 336-1620 for more information. chambernews.com | Chamber News 9
APRIL Events listed are compiled from SiouxFallsEvents.com and VisitSiouxFallsEvents.com. SiouxFallsEvents.com is the community’s FREE comprehensive community events calendar. Anyone can post an event happening in the Sioux Falls area. It’s free and it’s a great way to promote your event. The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau developed the visitor-related calendar to provide visitors a calendar of events they may be interested in attending. By combining the two calendars, you can see when there’s going to be a large number of visitors in the community and plan your weekend. For more information about visitor-related activities, contact the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau at (605) 275-6060. Learn more details about any of the following events by logging on or contact the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce at (605) 336-1620.
10 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
6-11
Restaurant Week
7
All-City Jazz Concert with Northlanders
8-9
Million Dollar Quartet
10
Kathy Kosins
10
Spring Band Concert
10
The Big Grape
10
Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Sioux City Musketeers
11
Dakota Chapter Breweriana Show
11
Jami Lynn Album Release with East of Westreville
11-12
Benson’s Flea Market
12
LifeScape Pancake Benefit
13
South Dakota FCA Night of Champions
18
Party for the Planet
18
Volunteer Sioux Falls — Day of Service
18-19
Annual AMA Coin, Stamp & Political Memorabilia Show
19
Brian Regan Live Comedy Tour
21
Harlem Globetrotters
21
Opera Theatre
22-25
37th Annual Kingswood Rummage
23-26
El Riad Shrine Circus
24-25
South Dakota Symphony Orchestra Mendelssohn’s “Elijah”
25
Downtown Sioux Falls Jazz Crawl
25
MDA Muscle Walk of Sioux Falls
27
Arlo Guthrie: Alice’s Restaurant
28
SME Women in Business featuring Melissa Gilbert
29-30
Now What? Conference
30-May 2
NSIC Softball Tournament
16-18
Spring Parade of Homes
21-23
Boys State Tennis Meet
22
Bike Night
25
Greatest Show on H2O at Catfish Bay
28
Berkley Fish Fest
28-31
18th Annual RibFest
29
Greatest Show on H2O at Catfish Bay
JUNE
MAY 1
Downtown First Friday, Art & Wine Walk
1-3
SECT Presents Monty Python’s “Spamalot”
2
Arts Night Benefit Auction
2-3
Benson’s Flea Market
3
Ladies’ Ultimate Sample Tour
8-10
SECT Presents Monty Python’s “Spamalot”
9
Loft Tour
9
Luke Bryan
9
Wells Fargo Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
9
Avera Race Against Breast Cancer
9-11
Spring Parade of Homes
12
CVB Annual Luncheon
15-17
SECT Presents Monty Python’s “Spamalot”
4 Eagles 5
Downtown Block Party
6-7
Siouxland Renaissance Festival
10
Ed Sheeran
12-14
Dakota Alliance Soccer Club Invitational
12-14
International Senior Softball Association Tournament
13
Festival of Cultures
18
Kenny Chesney
19
Bike Night
20
Zippity Zoo Day
27
Billy Currington
27
Women’s Try-It Day
chambernews.com | Chamber News 11
ECONOMIC INDICATORS Tracking trends in business is just one way that the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce is looking out for our members. Sioux Falls is a great place to do business, in part because of its diverse economy. Check here for economic indicators that help show growth and development.
City of Sioux Falls Building Permit Data
Regional Unemployment Rates
FEBRUARY 2015 2013
599 PERMITS
2014
587 PERMITS
2015
JANUARY 2015
659 PERMITS Fargo 3.6%
Source: City of Sioux Falls
City of Sioux Falls Total Construction Value FEBRUARY 2015
Rapid City 4.0%
Total Construction Value
Minneapolis/ St. Paul 4.1% Rochester 4.1%
Sioux Falls 3.4%
Des Moines 4.6%
Omaha Lincoln 3.5% 2.8%
Non-Residential Construction Value
$95
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
$85
Note: figures represent Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA), not just city; rates are not seasonally-adjusted
$75
Agriculture Trends
$65 $55
FEBRUARY 2015
$45
$16
$35
$15 $84.5 million $18.2 million
(IN MILLIONS)
$5
(PER BUSHEL) U.S.
$14
$25 $15
SOYBEANS
$45.5 million $10.8 million
$45.2 million $4.3 million
2013
2014
2015
Source: City of Sioux Falls
SOUTH DAKOTA
$12.90
$13
$12.50
$12 $11
$10.30
$10.30
$10 $9.79
$9.87
$9 $8
CORN
(PER BUSHEL) U.S.
$7
Sioux Falls Region Housing Overview FEBRUARY 2015
New Listings: 456 Days on the Market Until Sale: 109 Median Sales Price: $162,200 Inventory of Homes for Sale: 1,235 Source: RASE (Realtor Association of the Sioux Empire)
$6
SOUTH DAKOTA
$5
$4.42
$4
$4.11
$3 $2
$3.81
$3.78
$3.41
$3.43
2014
January
December January
2014
2015
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture
chambernews.com | Chamber News 13
NOTEWORTHY Headlines, accolades and rankings — Sioux Falls is often in the news for our community’s excellent business climate and high quality of life. Look for that information to be shared again here along with other topical quick hits.
Generations Defined Only one quarter of Gen X and Millennial professionals believe websites will always be prominent in our lives; 21 percent think websites will be replaced by apps, though they do not anticipate it to happen within the next five years.
10,000 MILLENNIALS
TURN 21 EVERY DAY IN AMERICA. ercent of a 75 p ll w , b 5 e l M l i i 2 ly w llen o l n ba
MILLENNIALS ARE THREE TIMES AS LIKELY AS BOOMERS (22 PERCENT TO 7 PERCENT) TO TURN TO SOCIAL CHANNELS WHEN MAKING PURCHASING DECISIONS.
Millennials are the most educated generation in American history: more than 63 percent have a bachelor’s degree.
GENERATION AGE IN 2014 Millennials ages 18-33
BORN 1981-96
Gen X ages 34-49
BORN 1965-80
Baby Boomers ages 50-68
BORN 1946-64
Greatest Generation ages 69-86
BORN 1928-45 1920
1940
rs rke ls. ia
Upon waking up, 54 percent of Millennials and 38 percent of Gen X professionals first look at their smartphones.
APPROXIMATELY
By 2 glo 0
BY 2018, MILLENNIALS WILL HAVE THE MOST SPENDING POWER OF ANY GENERATION.
1960
1980
2000
2014
Sources: Bazaarvoice Report: Talking to Strangers: Millennials Trust People Over Brands; TIME (“Millennials vs. Baby Boomers: Who Would You Rather Hire?”); Millennial Branding; Cisco: 2014 Connected World Technology Report; Pew Research Center chambernews.com | Chamber News 15
FACES & PLACES
Faces & Places
Our members do more than follow the news. They make the news. Job promotions and hirings. New projects. New partnerships. Awards. Every day we hear about exciting accomplishments, historic milestones and other positive aspects of our member businesses that deserve to be shared.
NANCY WEBER-SWEERE
St. Michael Cemetery
Accord Commercial Team Real Estate
Dougherty and Company
JACK DYVIG
DAREN ANDERSON
GITA HENDRICKS
TAMMY BEINTEMA
Midcontinent Communications
Sioux Falls Morning Optimists Club
DAN JOHNSON
Big D Technology Solutions, Inc.
MIKE HAUCK
Ground Works-Midwest
TOM HACKL
ADAM COOPER Dacotah Bank
JDRF
Recognition of Chamber Volunteers The Ambassador Team of the Month for February was Team Weber-Sweere: Nancy Weber-Sweere, Midcontinent Communications; Dan Johnson, St. Michael Cemetery; Mike Hauck, Accord Commercial Team Real Estate; and Tom Hackl, Dougherty and Company. The Ribbon Cutting Attendance Award went to Adam Cooper, Dacotah Bank.
Jack Dyvig, Sioux Falls Morning Optimists Club, was awarded Diplomat of the Month honors for February. Second place honors went to Daren Anderson, Big D Technology Solutions, Inc., and third place honors went to Gita Hendricks, Ground Works-Midwest. Jack Dyvig was also the recipient of the Ribbon Cutting Attendance award and Tammy Beintema, JDRF, received the Reinvestment Award.
The Diplomat Team of the Month for February was: Captain Janel Cole, Cole Notary; Jack Dyvig, Sioux Falls Morning Optimists Club; Tammy Beintema, JDRF; Wendy Bergan, YMCA; and James Payer II, Volunteers of America, Dakotas.
Faces & Places is great way to use your membership to be seen. This column appears each month in Chamber News and features information about Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce members and volunteers. Submissions may include grand openings, changes in management, moves, expansions, major developments and award recognition. Submit news using the Faces & Places form at chambernews.com or email asmolik@siouxfalls.com.
16 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
FACES & PLACES
New Faces & Promotions Sara Sullivan, Conceptual Engineer/ Art Director at ADwërks, was promoted to Assistant Creative Director. Along with her new role, Sullivan will resume her regular duties as Art Director. Sullivan has been with ADwërks for almost a decade. Tom Stengrim, an entrepreneur and U.S. Navy officer from rural Harrisburg, was hired as the newly-created position of Vice President at the South Dakota Technology Business Center. The SDTBC is focused on helping entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. Stengrim grew up in Stephen, Minn. He has a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Sioux Falls and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Nevada-Reno. He served with the U.S. Air Force and Navy for more than 20 years.
Credit Collections Bureau promoted Virginia Gray to Collection Representative and Tom Jackson to Collections Specialist. High Point Networks named Ryan Fonder to the position of Account Manager. Fonder will serve the South Dakota market and be the branch manager for High Point’s Sioux Falls office location. Fonder has more than 19 years of professional IT work experience in mostly the banking and insurance industries and he holds a degree in computer programming. Fonder has earned multiple industry certifications and most recently worked as a Systems Engineer for two years at High Point Networks before being named Account Manager.
Laura Anderson-Noll, Landscape Design, Inc., was promoted to partner in the familyowned business. Anderson-Noll is a graduate of South Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in Landscape Design and has been employed with the company since 1998. Zach Merwin joined Century Business Products as a Solutions Analyst in the Sioux Falls office. Merwin recently graduated from Augustana College. He worked in the banking and insurance industry before joining Century Business Products. Joe Gaspar was named president of TriState Wholesale Flooring.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 17
FACES & PLACES
Honors & Awards Designer Bryce Bills, Landscape Design, Inc., passed all three sections of the South Dakota Nursery & Landscape Association certification test. This makes him the newest certified nursery professional in the state. Bills is a graduate of South Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in Landscape Design and has been employed with Landscape Design, Inc. since 2007. Sioux Falls Development Foundation President Slater Barr was awarded recertification by the International Economic Development Council. The Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation requires recertification every three years through prerequisites that include continuing education and service to the profession. The CEcD designation is held by more than 1,000 economic development professionals nationally but only a few in South Dakota. The International Economic Development Council is a non-profit, non-partisan group with more than 4,500 members, the largest organization of its kind. McDonald’s General Manager Tiffany Menzia is among the top 10 percent of general managers across the country. McDonald’s honored Menzia with its Outstanding General Manager Award for her accomplishments in 2014. She was recently promoted to a supervisor and manages the 3101 E. 26th St. location in Sioux Falls. Brett Gildemaster, co-owner of Century Business Products, was named to Kyocera’s Dealer Advisory Council. Gildemaster is one
of 12 member dealers on the council that was created in September 2008 with the sole mission to encourage and maintain a mutual understanding between Kyocera and its dealer partners nationally. FASTSIGNS of Sioux Falls was named one of the top centers out of more than 570 locations worldwide at the 2015 FASTSIGNS International Convention. The locally owned and operated business received the CEO Circle Award, which recognizes the top 25 centers in U.S. and Canada with the highest sales volume from the previous year. Credit Collections Bureau named Megan Wehrkamp as a client services representative of the month for February. New Horizons Computer Learning Centers, a VMware Authorized Training Center (VATC), received the Global VMware Partner Network Award in the Training Partner of the Year category, as well as the Americas Regional Training Partner of the Year Award at VMware Partner Exchange 2015. Recipients of a Global VMware Partner Network Award were acknowledged in 16 categories for their excellence in performance and distinctive achievements during 2014. Dawn Knutson was named one of 23 top producing agents in 2014 by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield as part of the company’s annual Promise Awards. The Promise Awards recognize Wellmark agents and agencies for their success during the past year as well as their dedication to serving the needs of Wellmark
members. Knutson is an agent at Midwest Employee Benefits. Knutson began her career as an agency associate and purchased the agency in 2013. The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) received two Silver American Advertising Federation (AAF) Awards (ADDYs) at the 49th Annual South Dakota ADDY Awards, presented by the South Dakota Advertising Federation. This is the first of a three-tiered national competition conducted annually by AAF. The ADDY Awards Competition is the industry’s largest and most representative competition for creative excellence. The following received Best of Class awards: Fresh Produce in Sales Promotion, Television, Integrated Campaign and Elements of Advertising; Meta Payment Systems in Collateral Materials; DocuTAP in Direct Marketing; Caliber Creative in Out of Home, Radio, and Integrated Campaigns; Media One in Non-Traditional Advertising; Insight Marketing Design in Consumer or Trade Publication; 44 Interactive in Digital Advertising; Midcontinent Communications in Public Service; and Lawrence & Schiller in Self-Promotion. In addition, Fresh Produce received the Best of Show Award, 44 Interactive received Best of Show-Digital and Caliber Creative received a Special Judges Award. Dan Edmonds, Lawrence & Schiller, received the Creative Legacy Award and Julie Anderson Friesen, Anderson Friesen Creative, received the Silver Medal Award.
Acquisitions
Members in the News
Marco, Inc. purchased Solbrekk, Inc., a business IT services company located in Minneapolis. They serve customers nationally with offices in Minnesota, Illinois, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin.
Sioux Falls-based Millennium Recycling Inc. was profiled as the cover story in the March 2015 edition of Recycling Today, the global
Thank You Thank you to Famous Dave’s, Honeybaked Ham, Taco Time and Zesty’s for assisting with hospitality rooms for the State AA Boys Basketball Tournament, held in Sioux Falls March 19-21. The Chamber’s Sports & Recreation Committee served as hosts in the hospitality room during the state tournament. 18 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
publication focused on the recycling industry. This is the first time a company in the Dakotas has been featured in the magazine.
FACES & PLACES
Be Seen
2 1
The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce helps plan the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade with members of the Sioux Falls Irish Club. 1 Betty Ordal, former Membership Services Director for the Chamber, was the Grand Marshal for the 36th Annual Parade, which was held March 14. 2 Each year the parade starts with the Khartum Pipes & Drums from Winnipeg, Manitoba.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 19
FACES & PLACES
4 3 The Business Sense Workshop series concluded in March.
3
20 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
Presenter Jared Pomranky, Net Profit Marketing, talked about the benefits of using LinkedIn. The Business Sense Workshops are held each Tuesday in January-March. The Chamber Cafe series kicks off April 15 and features Chamber members sharing information on a variety of topics over breakfast. See the calendar on page 7 for more information. 4 The Chamber’s Sports & Recreation Committee hosted Hospitality Rooms at the State AA Boys Basketball Tournament, held at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center in March. 5 Deb Bowman, former staffer for Gov. Dennis Daugaard, spoke at the Young Professionals Network “A Seat at the Table” lunch. This event brings in leaders from across the community and state to talk about their life experiences and answer questions posed by young professionals.
FACES & PLACES
5
chambernews.com | Chamber News 21
FACES & PLACES
6 6, 7 The El Riad Shrine hosted the March Membership Mixer, with about 280 people in attendance.
In business, it’s not just what you know,
it’s who you know. And no matter your business size, there’s nothing like forming
PERSONAL CONNECTIONS in the local business community. When you’re a Chamber member, you have access to a wealth of people to learn from, create relationships with and do business together. Our hundreds of volunteers represent businesses of all sizes and industries from across the community. Our dedicated staff has more than 250 years of combined service to bettering the Sioux Falls area for our 2,200 Chamber members. Find new clients and customers among your fellow Chamber members, who support each other when purchasing goods and services.
Use the Chamber to be seen. JOIN TODAY: 336-1620
siouxfallschamber.com 22 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
7
COMMUNITY APPEALS SIOUX FALLS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Community Appeals Scheduled Fund Drives The purpose of the Community Appeals Committee is to qualify and provide orderly scheduling of capital fund drives. The committee has a responsibility to discourage unnecessary or overlapping drives, to assess funds available in the Sioux Falls business community, and to provide input on realistic drive goals. Capital fund drive applications will be accepted by the committee until Aug. 1 of any one year and the suggested solicitation amount and time slot for approved drives will be determined and scheduled by the committee no later than February of the following year. For more information on the Community Appeals Committee, call Mike Lynch at (605) 373-2006 or download an application at siouxfallschamber.com under the Programs tab.
CURRENT CAMPAIGN
LUTHERAN SOCIAL SERVICES APRIL 1-JULY 31, 2016 $1.25 MILLION To build a new “Center for Community Services” to house multiple programs
FRIENDS OF LEVITT SHELL
DAKOTABILITIES APRIL 1-JULY 31, 2015 $1.007 MILLION Renovate and remodel Longfellow school for new/consolidated headquarters
Sioux Falls
$840,000 Create an outdoor concert venue in Sioux Falls, partnering with non-profit Levitt Pavilions
SERTOMA BUTTERFLY HOUSE & MARINE COVE $1.26 MILLION Expand public aquarium exhibits in the Marine Cove
chambernews.com | Chamber News 23
YPN GROWS TO 1,000 MEMBERS IN SIX YEARS In 2009, the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce created a Young Professionals Network to engage more young people in the Sioux Falls community, and help them develop their skills needed to succeed in their chosen professions. In six years, the YPN has grown to a solid network of 1,000 members who have opportunities to participate in a variety of events, ranging from developmental to social. The YPN is managed by a Chamber staff member and a volunteer Steering Committee who set the programs and events schedule for the year. Members have access to unique events and contact with community leaders and elected officials. Events take place at a variety of times to meet nearly every schedule. Membership is open to individuals between the ages of 21-39 who come from different backgrounds and professions. YPN members are also invited and encouraged to attend Chamber events. “The YPN is doing what it set out to do — bring in young people and give them a place to build relationships, develop the workforce and hopefully assist in the retention of young talent in the Sioux Falls area. Just seeing that young talent grow and continue to roll over is inspiring,” said Dan Doyle, Cutler Law Firm, who also chairs the YPN Steering Committee. What does a day in the life of a young professional in Sioux Falls look like? Take a look at three YPN members. For more information about the Young Professionals Network, visit siouxfallsypn.com.
24 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
COVER STORY
A DAY IN THE LIFE REGGIE KUIPERS Age: 31 Principal-Office/Land Specialist at Bender Commercial Real Estate Services Hometown: Platte, S.D. My alarm is set for 4:30 a.m. during the week so A.M. I can get to the gym by 5 a.m. I’ve worked out at Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping for the last four years. Starting my day with a workout gives me fuel and energy for the day. It has also instilled perseverance and consistency into my daily routine.
4:30
I return home and see if my wife Chelsea or our A.M. baby daughter Tatum need anything before making coffee and breakfast. Chelsea is also an early riser, so we like to have coffee together and visit briefly about the day. I enjoy a quiet time with a devotional, scripture reading and prayer time in the morning for 10-15 minutes and then check the newspaper, email and Twitter feed before getting ready for the day.
6:00
7:00 Arrive at the office. Priority No. 1 is turning the A.M. coffee pot on! The time between 7-8 a.m. is my most productive time of the day. I check my calendar, make a to-do list, check and return email and prepare for the day. Fortunately, no two days are ever really alike in the 8:00 commercial real estate business. If I can, I prefer A.M. to schedule meetings in the morning. Most of my mornings are spent between meetings, conference calls and showings. I prefer an early lunch because it beats the crowd, A.M. and since I’ve been up since 4:30 a.m. I’m usually pretty hungry! Lunch meetings are awesome. When I got into this business in 2007, one of the guys I worked with in Omaha told me that I should never eat lunch alone. I try to schedule a lunch every day with a friend, client, prospect or business partner. I can almost guarantee that I pick up some
11:30
type of useful information from any one of those individuals over lunch. I spend most afternoons in showings, prospecting, preparing, researching and crossing off my to-do list P.M. I made in the morning. My afternoons are never the same and I try to get out of the office and in front of existing and prospective clients as much as possible in the afternoon. Most nights I leave the office with unfinished business. As I drive home, I dictate anything and everything I can think of that I need to follow up on the following day and email the notes to myself when I get home. With a newborn daughter, I am excited to go home at the end of the day and hang out with her.
1:00
I tend to eat a quick dinner and visit with Chelsea about the day. We often focus our conversation on P.M. personal stuff and avoid work altogether. It is important for us to spend quality time together, so we attempt to go on a date night one night per week.
6:00
This is the time of the night where I try to relax and hang out with Tatum. Right now, she is getP.M. ting a full dose of March Madness and the NCAA basketball tournament. I know that it will soon be cartoons so I’m enjoying this while I can! I tend to stay off Twitter and Facebook during the workday because it is just not productive. At night, I check both and catch up on the days’ events.
7:00
It’s a goal of mine to read one book per month. I P.M. tend to cover a multitude of topics but stick mostly to non-fiction. Currently, I’m reading “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee” by Dee Brown. After I can hardly stay awake, I bookmark the page, say a quick prayer and call it a night — usually between 9:30-10 p.m.
9:00
chambernews.com | Chamber News 25
A DAY IN THE LIFE
ADDIE GRAHAM-KRAMER Age: 34 Founder + Event Designer, The Event Company Hometown: Central City, Neb.
Time to wake up! I spend a few minutes in the A.M. morning catching up on the latest news as well as taking a quick glance through all of my social media platforms. While I am getting ready for work, this is also the part of my day when I start developing my daily task list. With managing multiple events at the same time, we have deadlines that we need to meet and these tasks lists are vital to our success. My tasks lists are digital and also synced to my calendar as reminders and due dates.
5:30
Breakfast with the boys! Some mornings I leave 6:45 so early that I may not get a chance to see my two A.M. boys before I go to the office. But since I knew that I would have a late night with volunteer meetings, I was excited to have breakfast at home with William and Calvin. This was my favorite part of the day — starting off the morning with the best breakfast dates! When I arrive to our downtown office each morn7:45 ing, I turn on some music to get things more lively A.M. in our space and to awaken the senses even more. Music has always been a big part of my life and having it on in the background helps me to focus even more and relax. On this particular day, I had a board meeting in the evening, so I spent the first 30 minutes of my morning reading through expectations and agenda items for the meeting. Next up for the day includes a few client meetings surrounding public relations for an upcoming event and graphic design needs as well as wedding plans in Okoboji for a very special bride and groom and then finally a two-day grand opening celebration of a new downtown business. A busy morning! At The Event Company, we work with various non-profit organizations and corporate clients. We will spend time 26 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
planning events with various committees, boards of directors, marketing directors and others. With such a wide range of individuals involved in the planning process, we must be efficient with our time in these meetings. Some days we may have six planning meetings with six different clients. Having agendas and materials planned ahead of time helps us to be more efficient with our time in these planning meetings. That’s where our task lists come into play. Each Monday, I help lead our team through our weekly event tasks and project plans. Spending time to review these tasks and project plans with our lead event designer, interns and a call with our freelancers helps us keep on task. Then we assign tasks to each person on the team so that we can better understand who is responsible for what duty and the deadline for each. Lunch was on-the-go this day, in the form of a protein shake and banana. While driving to my next P.M. meeting, I made a quick call to my husband to say hello and to see how his day was going and then chatted with
12:30
YPN exposes you to different industries while having fun, so I’d say to a non-member, “What’s holding you back?”
PAIGE MEYER,
Digital Communication Strategist at DocuTAP
COVER STORY YPN EVENTS & ACTIVITIES Besides meeting new people, YPN has many other events to increase your involvement in the community and many events like the Crossroads Summit and workshops to increase your knowledge of different topics.
ABBY HEADRICK,
Real Estate Broker with Bender Commercial/Bender Residential
Attending Sioux Falls Young Professionals Network (YPN) events are a great way to learn more about the community and build professional relationships. YPN members have access to inside information about community issues, networking opportunities with business leaders, unique learning experiences and a chance to help grow and improve the Sioux Falls area. The YPN offers a variety of events and programs to meet the needs of young professionals — at all stages of their personal and professional life. YPN members can attend any event or program organized by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce or YPN. Registration is required. Visit siouxfallsypn. com for the latest events taking place in our community.
OUR SIOUX FALLS
Learn more about the community where you live and work through programs that give details behind major infrastructure projects and issues impacting your quality of life. a dear friend who made me laugh so hard that I was almost in tears! Everyone who is a part of my life understands how much I love to laugh, and moments like that in the middle of the day make me so very happy and blessed to have such an amazing group of friends and family. I spent the next hour following up on client planning P.M. needs and responding to emails and phone calls. I love what I do! It’s hard to believe that I get to call this my “job!” I build dreams through events!
3:00
Being involved in the community and giving back 4:30 has been a passion of mine from the time that I was P.M. a young child. Tonight was my second board meeting for Dress For Success Sioux Falls. Surrounding myself with an incredible group of women helping to make a difference in the lives of other women means so much to me. Home just in time to give the boys baths and tuck them in to bed! After William and Calvin are in bed, P.M. my husband, Drew, and I have time to talk about each other’s days and what we have planned for the week.
8:15
I usually spend about 90 minutes each night after P.M. our boys go to bed responding to the last few emails, getting prepared for the next day and then catching up on leadership development and female entrepreneurship blogs that I follow. One of my favorites is from the Female Entrepreneur Association and I read it daily. On this night, it was #MotivationalMonday and it was all about “Why Not You?” which gives that extra boost of inspiration for all that is to come in the week ahead.
9:00
10:30
A SEAT AT THE TABLE
Gain access to some of the prominent business and community leaders in the Sioux Falls area. Understand the path that leaders took to get to where they are today. Ask questions, listen and engage in an ongoing dialogue with leaders in our community. This event is open to YPN members only.
CROSSROADS SUMMIT
This biennial event for young professionals brings top-notch keynote speakers, valuable breakout sessions and plenty of networking opportunities for young professionals from across the region. The Summit will be held Aug. 20, 2015 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center; visit siouxfallypn.com/ summit2015 to learn more or register.
CANDIDATE FORUMS
These events are organized by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce and other community organizations. Open to the public, these forums offer an opportunity for citizens to gain a better understanding of the issues and the candidates in our community.
A SIT DOWN WITH THE SENATOR/REPRESENTATIVE
In conjunction with the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce’s Inside Washington series, we ask our congressional representatives to make time to visit exclusively with young professionals outside of the Chamber event. This event is open to YPN members only. Continued on page 29...
Lights out! Until tomorrow…
P.M.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 27
A DAY IN THE LIFE DAN MENKE Age: 30 Controller, Pride Neon Hometown: Sioux Falls I wake up and get my first cup of coffee of the day. I’m not sure how my wife doesn’t drink caffeine. I’d be lost without it. A few years ago I stole a routine from my dad — I sit in the living room, coffee in hand, for 10 minutes and relax. I generally think about the day ahead and what I want to accomplish. Visualizing success has done wonders to my productivity.
4:45 A.M.
After that I head to FAF Crossfit to get my workout in. I try and workout four to five times a week and working out in the morning has changed my life. I feel better throughout the day and my energy level remains consistently high. I get to the office and grab cup of coffee No. 2. The 7:00 first thing I do is fill out my Eight for the Day noteA.M. book. John Meyer from Lemonly created a to-do list notebook that has you focus on eight items for the day. Six of them are for business and two are personal. His theory is that if you can’t get eight things done in a day, you’re not focusing on the right things. I’ve been doing this for a few years and it’s really helped me stay on top of everything. After filling out my to-do list and attempting to say A.M. hello to every employee, it’s time to get some stuff accomplished. Probably my biggest job function at Pride is sending out invoices and job costing projects. I’ve found I’m generally more productive in the morning (could be the coffee) so I try and focus my whole morning on those tasks.
8:00
28 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
I run home for a quick lunch with my wife, Ashley. We have an 18-month old daughter, Grace, and another baby due in August. The 45 minutes that I get to chat with Ashley during lunch is a huge priority.
NOON
I’m sitting pretty well at this point productivity-wise, P.M. so I try and focus my afternoon on ongoing projects, both for here at Pride and for the various boards of directors that I sit on. Pride Neon and our family are so blessed to be a part of this community that we try and give back as much as possible.
1:00
My dad and I meet every day at 2:30 to discuss the day’s happenings. We talk throughout the day, but this is a designated time to exchange thoughts on everything in our business. The topics often drift to life outside of work. I’m very lucky to work with my dad every day. I probably don’t tell him that enough.
2:30 P.M.
I’ve got about an hour left before I head home and I’m going to focus on some projects that my mentor P.M. and professional development coach have laid out for me. These two people, along with another close group of friends, have been crucial to my professional development. One of my favorite quotes is, “if you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.” I try and surround myself with people on a different level of intelligence and pray to God that I can keep up and they don’t figure it out.
4:00
COVER STORY Continued from page 27...
The Kringle is the one event where you can get hundreds of young professionals in a room to connect, celebrate the holidays and help out the community at the same time.
YPN OFF THE CLOCK
JAMIE HEGGE,
Join other YPN members at the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce monthly Membership Mixer. Broaden your network, exchange business cards and meet other community and business leaders.
Account Executive at Lawrence & Schiller
Each month we offer the opportunity for young professionals to network with one another, off the clock! This event is open to all young professionals and offers individuals the chance to mix, mingle and exchange business cards.
MEET US AT THE MIXER
YPN GOLF LEAGUE
This 10-week league allows members to play with different individuals each week and rotates between Chamber-member golf courses each week. Space is limited and is open to YPN members only. Tee times vary and will always be between 5:30-6:30 p.m.
MORNING BUZZ
Grab a cup of coffee and enjoy conversations with other young professionals before heading into the office. This event is an opportunity for young professionals to exchange business cards, discuss what is going on in the community and network with one another.
POWER LUNCH I pick up my daughter on the way home from work, 5:00 and now it’s playtime. Ashley and I have a no TV P.M. rule on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We’ve found this helps create an opportunity for our family to have some serious quality time together without distraction. Tonight it’s 70 degrees, so we’re going to take advantage of the great March weather and take a long walk to the park. Besides email and the 45 minutes during lunch, my P.M. wife and I rarely get time to interact one on one. Tonight we grab a couple books, lie in bed and read. Sometimes I feel like we’re 30 going on 60, but we don’t care. We love our routines. Tonight we chat about our monthly date night coming up tomorrow night and what we want to do. Each month we make sure to get a babysitter and hit the town (aka — grab a bite to eat and have adult conversations). It’s incredibly important to us and we make it a priority.
8:00
9:00 P.M.
Lights are out. Alarm is set.
Take a break midday to network with your peers. Join fellow YPN members for lunch and conversations. Locations rotate each month.
FAMILY PICNIC
This is an annual event that allows young professionals and families to get together for dinner, play time and conversations. Food, games and fun are sure to be had.
BIRTHDAY PARTY
Each year the Sioux Falls Young Professionals Network celebrates the formation of the YPN. Our anniversary celebration is an opportunity to network, exchange business cards and socialize with young professionals in our community.
ANNUAL YPN GOLF TOURNAMENT
The tournament is an 18-hole event with pin prizes, networking and plenty of fun! The tournament is open to YPN members and non-members of all skill levels.
THE KRINGLE
Get in the holiday spirit with other young professionals at the evening cocktail party held in the height of the holiday season. The Kringle is held in December and offers the opportunity for young professionals to mix, mingle, celebrate the year and support a local charity in the community.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 29
The long and winding road
SB 1 enacted to fund South Dakota’s roads, bridges If you want the short story, SB 1 was passed on the final day of the 2015 Legislative Session and signed into law by Gov. Dennis Daugaard. It equates to a nearly $86 million increase in annual funding for roads and bridges in our state, county and township systems with many provisions effective as of April 1, 2015. And now for the rest of the story …
SUMMER STUDY MARK LEE
Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce
Road and bridge funding was the subject of one of the most comprehensive summer studies we have seen in some time. Led by Sen. Mike Vehle (R-District 20, Mitchell) as chair and Rep. Mary Duvall (R-District 24, Pierre) as vice-chair, the committee met three times over the summer/fall of 2014 in Pierre and conducted six listening sessions across the state including one in Sioux Falls. We also hosted Vehle at a Chamber Issues Management Council meeting, which also included the Chamber’s Business Transportation Committee. Finally, we hosted the senator as he invited local legislators and interest groups to hear the results of the committee’s work. The entire process was fully supported by the state Department of Transportation as well. During the course of their hearings, Vehle admonished presenters to present “problems and solutions” so as to not just focus on what was wrong, but also how to address the issues. It can be safely said that the comprehensive nature of this work was convincing in terms of demonstrating a significant need for funding and Vehle is to be commended.
LEGISLATION From the summer committee’s work emerged a single omnibus bill that became SB 1. The Governor, in a bit of a surprise, offered his own version of a bill (HB 1131) that was consistent in many ways with SB 1 but at about half of the first-year funding. SB 1 was estimated to produce about $104 million per year in funding and HB 1131 was closer to $51 million. As session unfolded, a number of individual bills dealing with road and bridge funding were introduced, but most of them did not see life after committee. SB 1 was amended by the Senate State Affairs Committee to look remarkably but not exactly like HB 1131 and was eventually passed to the House. In particular, from a Chamber perspective, we got the moratorium on new road miles out of the bill. Meanwhile, HB 1131 was heard by the House Transportation Committee and referred to House State Affairs Committee. In House State Affairs, it was killed so the focus could be on one bill — SB 1. As predicted even before session started, this issue lingered until the last day and at about 6:40 p.m. on Friday, March 13 (the final legislative day), it passed the House. It was the last issue dealt with before the general appropriations bill. SB 1 was signed by Gov. Daugaard on March 17. 30 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
CHAMBER ADVOCACY EFFORTS For more information about the Chamber’s advocacy efforts: Make sure you’re receiving the weekly electronic publication, The Chamber Advocate, which is emailed out each Friday and details issues taking place at local, state and federal levels. Follow the Chamber’s Advocacy efforts on Twitter: @SFAreaAdvocate Contact Public Affairs & Communications Director Mark Lee at (605) 336-1620 or mlee@siouxfalls.com
LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP A complete legislative wrap-up will be shared in the May issue of Chamber News. For more information about the 2015 Legislative Session: Read the Chamber’s Legislative Bill Tracker here: siouxfallschamber.com/bill-tracker Bill Tracker is updated weekly during the Legislative Session and posted online; the final version posted details the status of all the bill followed by the Chamber during the session. Visit the Legislative Research Council: legis. sd.gov To listen to any committee meetings or floor discussions, go to South Dakota Public Broadcasting: sdpb.sd.gov/statehouse
INCREASED ROAD, BRIDGE FUNDING Following is a summary of the funding increases included in the final version of SB 1: • The excise tax on vehicle sales was increased from 3 percent to 4 percent. This will generate about $27 million per year for the state road system. • The taxes on motor fuels and ethanol were each increased in one step by 6 cents to 28 cents and 14 cents, respectively. This will generate about $41 million per year for the state road system. • License fees for all types of vehicles were increased by about 20 percent for all types of vehicles. This will generate about $14.8 million for county roads. • License fees for noncommercial agricultural vehicles were increased. This will generate about $2.5 million for county roads. • If a county enacts it, the wheel tax can be as high as $5 per wheel up to $60 total. The dollars that will be generated are unknown as previous records on wheels were not kept.
JUST A FEW MORE THINGS First, the final number of $86 million annually was well above the Governor’s original bill; in his original bill he had the gas tax increase by 2 cents per year forever. There is no escalator in the final bill.
Second, for counties to access the newly established bridge fund they will need to enact a wheel tax of some sort and have a maintenance plan for their road system. Third, the bill also provides a local property tax option for both counties and townships to use for their road systems that is outside the other property tax limitations. Fourth, the bill included an effective date of April 1, 2015 meaning that there will be three months of revenue from many of the sources that was not anticipated. Finally, and most importantly, we can now go 80 miles per hour on the interstates. This effort took a large coalition of interested parties and gubernatorial and legislative leadership to get it passed. Yes, it is a big tax increase, but we need to be good stewards of the road system that is so vital to commerce in our state. We were pleased we could provide support to the effort. Mark Lee is the Public Affairs & Communications Director for the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce and also lobbies in Pierre full-time during the legislative session.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 31
HEADLINES
School Board election April 14 An election to fill the two seats on the Sioux Falls Public School Board will be held Tuesday, April 14. In order to vote, you must live within the Sioux Falls School District and have registered by March 30. Also included on the ballot will be a school start date referendum. This referendum asks whether to hold the opening day of school before or after Labor Day in the years 2015, 2016, and 2017. A “yes” vote would uphold the Board’s decision to schedule the next three school years’ opening days on Aug. 17, 2015; Aug. 22, 2016; and Aug. 21, 2017. A “no” vote would reject the School Board’s decision to schedule the next three school years’ opening days on Aug. 17, 2015; Aug. 22, 2016; and Aug. 21, 2017, and would require the School Board to set an opening day after Labor Day for each of the 2015, 2016 and 2017 school years. Absentee ballots for voters in both Lincoln and Minnehaha counties are available at the Minnehaha County Auditor’s Office (415 N. Dakota Ave.) from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. through April 13. The election will be conducted at 13 Vote Centers located throughout the Sioux Falls School District from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. on April 14.
SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES
Candidates are listed in the order in which they appear on the ballot.
RANDY DOBBERPUHL
4313 E. 36th St. Facebook: Randy Dobberpuhl for School Board Occupation: Case Manager for Minnehaha County Human Services Family: Wife, Kersten; sons Coulter (9) and Ryder (6), both students at Harvey Dunn Elementary School Education: Northern State University, Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology with an emphasis on RANDY DOBBERPUHL Criminal Justice, minor in Psychology Years Residing in Sioux Falls: Since 2007 Why do you want to serve on the Sioux Falls School Board: My two boys have inspired me to look out for the best interests in all our students. Based off the results of the Gallup Employment Engagement Survey and Employee Exit Survey, there seems to be a lack of communication between the employees in the school and with other schools. Teacher recognition really stood out to me because it was so low. Teachers reported they are not receiving any feedback or recognition.
TODD THOELKE
2100 E. 63rd St. Facebook: Todd Thoelke for School Board Occupation: Real Estate Broker Family: Wife, Jackie; daughters Paige and Emma Education: some college at University of Missouri and University of South Dakota Years Residing in Sioux Falls: 35
VOTE CENTER LOCATIONS Vote Centers will be open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. at the following locations: First Lutheran Church 327 S. Dakota Ave.
Peace Lutheran Church 5509 W. 41st St.
Wesley United Methodist Church 1700 E. Sixth St.
Faith Baptist Church 601 W. 57th St.
Kenny Anderson Community Center 3701 E. Third St.
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 5500 E. 57th St.
Sioux Falls Arena 1201 N. W. Ave. Oyate Community Center 2421 W. 15th St. MariCar Community Center 400 N. Valley View Rd.
Morningside Community Center 2400 S. Bahnson Ave. Asbury United Methodist Church 2425 S. Western Ave.
TODD THOELKE Why do you want to serve on the Sioux Falls School Board: Sioux Falls really has something to be proud of with our public school system. My commitment to education continues as I work hard to represent the students, teachers and taxpayers. I believe I’ve made a difference with my efforts to educate and prepare each student to succeed in a changing world. I am proud of the many successes our board has achieved over the last three years and hope Sioux Falls will allow me to continue.
Instructional Planning Center 201 E. 38th St.
KATE PARKER
Memorial Middle School 1401 S. Sertoma Ave.
KATE PARKER
1205 S. 2nd Ave. Facebook: Kate Parker, Sioux Falls School Board Occupation: Government Programs Manager, Sanford Health Plan Family: Husband, Matt; sons Jack (10) and Bobby (7) Education: Bachelor’s degree in education from Bucknell University (Lewisburg, Penn.), master’s degree in public administration from American University (Washington, D.C.) Years Residing in Sioux Falls: 10
Why do you want to serve on the Sioux Falls School Board: With a new superintendent beginning this summer, it is imperative to have someone with the experience and knowledge to help navigate through this time of change. With six years on the Board, I have that experience and knowledge. I have seen budget cuts, enrollment growth and new programs and remained steadfast in my support of quality education. I will continue to approach my service as a parent looking forward to our children’s future educational needs. chambernews.com | Chamber News 33
HEADLINES
DakotAbilities’ capital campaign will renovate Longfellow School BY MIKE LYNCH Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce
DakotAbilities’ Opening Doors, the Campaign for Longfellow Center will allow the organization to renovate Longfellow Elementary School, transforming it into a centralized location to more effectively serve the needs of its clients. This Chamber Community Appeals Campaign kicked off April 1 and runs through July 31, 2015. Opening Doors seeks to raise more than $1 million from Community Appeals and $918,000 from additional sources for a total goal of more than $1.92 million. DakotAbilities cares for the most challenging and delicate health issues that face individuals in South Dakota. Founded in 1965, the organization provides a multitude of services for about 135 people with varying degrees of abilities and disabilities. Though located in Sioux Falls, the organization serves clients from 41 counties within South Dakota, including 21 residential settings and a variety of work and non-work settings; the headquarters are currently located on S. Duluth Avenue. Unique from other community service providers, DakotAbilities offers 24-hour nursing and healthcare services. DakotAbilities Longfellow Center will be the home for dedicated vocational, assessment and training areas with alternative areas for art, music and physical activities. Additionally, clients will benefit from one-on-one physical and occupational therapy facilities, separate clerical and assessment areas for nursing, dietary and nutrition services. The added space will more than double the current square footage. The need to enhance services is acute, as the number of people served by DakotAbilities has increased by more than 30 percent in the past five years. Brian Thompson, First Bank & Trust, and Rod Carlson, Active
This architectural rendering shows how Longfellow Elementary School will be remodeled to fit the needs of DakotAbilities.
34 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
Generations, are co-chairs of the Opening Doors campaign. Thompson said the capital campaign is a great opportunity for the entire region. “It’s a way to help those individuals that are so vulnerable and unable to help themselves by providing an environment that is safe and fulfilling,” he said. Thompson said this will also be an opportunity for families to know that their loved ones are being cared for in a better, more collaborative environment and for the community to preserve and utilize a landmark facility in the heart of Sioux Falls. A concerted effort is being made to preserve the history of the Longfellow building itself as well as what it has meant to all who have passed through its doors to receive an education. The integrity of the neighborhood is important to DakotAbilities staff and board of directors and they intend to sustain and also enhance this relationship for years to come. When the organization moves into DakotAbilities Longfellow Center, they will celebrate Longfellow turning 100 years old and DakotAbilities turning 50 years old. DakotAbilities Executive Director Bob Bohm describes it as, “a new beginning for both.” Bohm said they are already talking with neighbors like the All Saints Neighborhood Association, the Friends of McKennan Park Neighborhood Association and others about becoming active participants together to improve the neighborhood. “We cannot do this alone without the support of our community partners,” he said. Those having connections, stories and photos of Longfellow School are encouraged to share these with DakotAbilities staff.
HEADLINES
DAKOTABILITIES COMMUNITY APPEALS CAMPAIGN
Goal: $1.007 million ($1.92 million overall goal)
April 1-July 31, 2015
Pet therapy is one of the services DakotAbilities provides for its clients.
The Opening Doors campaign will renovate Longfellow Elementary School into Longfellow Center, allowing DakotAbilities to consolidate some of its programs to one central location. For more information, visit dakotabilities.org.
“As Sioux Falls continues to grow, so will the number of people looking for our services. We will be more efficient because the move allows us to combine services into one location verses multiple locations,” said Bohm.
“I receive great joy seeing them live their lives as independently as possible — making choices about how and where they live, work and recreate as well as seeing them take advantage of the many fine things that our community has to offer its citizens,” he said.
Bohm said working with DakotAbilities’ clients everyday has been rewarding.
For more information on DakotAbilities and its Opening Doors campaign, including how to make a donation, visit dakotabilities.org.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 35
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
International tourism coming to Sioux Falls
ALEXA STEINER Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau
April presents an exciting international sales opportunity for the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) as well as the city of Sioux Falls! The Rocky Mountain International (RMI) Roundup will be held in the city April 12-16. This is the first time the event will be hosted in Sioux Falls and the largest single hosting of international tour operators in the history of the city. The event will bring nearly 200 tour operators and suppliers from the German, Swiss Australian, UK, French, Australian/New Zealand, Nordic, Belgian, Italian and Dutch markets. Hosting Rocky Mountain International Roundup will give Sioux Falls the opportunity to showcase the city to as many as 45 targeted international tour operator companies and U.S.-based receptive tour operators as well as regional, state and local tourism professionals who will be in the community conducting business. Focus will be on Sioux Falls’ attractions and activities as well as facilities, restaurants and retail. RMI’s annual Roundup provides an opportunity for businesses, destinations and attractions in the four-state region of Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming to meet face-to-face with tour operators from Europe who specifically want to do business in this region. Local suppliers will meet one-on-one with international tour operators in 10-minute appointments during which real business is conducted.
In addition to participating in the appointments, the CVB will have the chance to showcase Sioux Falls on a Familiarization (FAM) tour of the city showcasing many unique attractions that the international market is looking for. There will also be private events held throughout the city to show the international travel leaders the level of hospitality and culture that their travelers will be able to experience. Mathias Jung, Executive Director of Rocky Mountain International explains: “The Roundup is an efficient and practical way for local destinations, attractions and accommodations to feature their products to an international tourism audience. Unlike most conventions and conferences, hosting the Roundup may result in substantial follow up business opportunities and can impact the community for years to come.” The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau would like to thank the following partners helping to host RMI: Holiday Inn City Centre, Best Western Ramkota Hotels, Sioux Falls Regional Airport, Brulé, The District, Falls Overlook Café, Prairie Berry Eastbank, Scheels All Sports, Washington Pavilion, Good Earth State Park at Blood Run, USGS EROS, SculptureWalk, and the South Dakota Department of Tourism.
Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau Mission To market the city of Sioux Falls as a one-of-a-kind visitor destination, and to provide premier visitor services, and increase visitor spending in order to enhance economic impact throughout the community. The Sioux Falls Promise The CVB stands committed to exceeding visitor’s expectations. We will provide superior visitor hospitality in the city best recognized as “The Heart of America.”For all your convention, meeting and event needs, contact the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau: (605) 275-6060, email sfcvb@siouxfalls.com or visit VisitSiouxFalls.com; for more updates about the visitor industry, go to pg. 43.
36 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
s r u o T M A F y it C r e n n 2015 I A FAMiliarization tour of 13 Sioux Falls attractions for front line staff. Two all-day tours available May 6th and May 7th. Cost is $10 and includes lunch. Reserve your seat today by contacting Rachel at 373.2026 or rcrane@siouxfalls.com
Annual Luncheon May 12, 2015 • 11:30AM Sioux Falls Convention Center Featuring Roger J. Dow The Impact of Travel: How it Bolsters the U.S. Economy Roger J. Dow President & CEO U.S. Travel Association
For more information go to VisitSiouxfalls.com/Luncheon or call Kathie at 605.373.2032
MEMBER BENEFIT
Community Appeals process enables orderly fundraising The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce’s Community Appeals process was formally organized in 1958 to qualify and provide orderly scheduling of capital fund drives. The committee has a responsibility to discourage unnecessary or overlapping drives, to assess funds available in the Sioux Falls business community, and to provide input on realistic drive goals. An approval by the committee is not an endorsement but does assure potential donors that the applicants have provided sufficient evidence to assure reliable leadership, sound business planning and community need. Chamber members must make their own decisions as to the support they will give, but can be confident the campaign purpose and proposed organization has been thoroughly vetted. Applications are considered in the areas of social or educational requests; social
38 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
CHAMBER COMMUNITY APPEALS COMMITTEE
Applications are due Aug. 1, 2015 for consideration of the 2018 schedule Applications are available at siouxfallschamber.com/ community-appeals
is defined as non-profit and educational is defined as accredited, non-profit postsecondary institutions. Applications are accepted by the committee until Aug. 1 of any one year and the suggested solicitation amount and time slot for approved drives are determined and scheduled by the committee no later than February of the following year. Campaigns are approved after they’ve
provided the committee with sufficient evidence of reliable leadership, sound business planning and community need. Applicants not scheduled may reapply. Once a fund drive is scheduled, a committee member is assigned as a liaison to the organization. The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce publishes the upcoming campaigns in each issue of the Chamber News magazine and on siouxfallschamber.com. As the campaign launch approaches, Chamber volunteers and staff work with the campaign to communicate its purpose to Chamber members. For more information about Community Appeals, contact Chamber Public Affairs & Research Manager Mike Lynch at (605) 3732006 or mlynch@siouxfalls.com.
USING YOUR MEMBERSHIP
Let your customers know that you’re a Chamber member Over the years and throughout the world, membership in chambers of commerce has offered business owners credibility to consumers looking to purchase products and services. The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce has provided its members this seal of approval from the early days when hand-typed, mimeographed membership directories were distributed within the community to the modern day form of promotion through the Chamber App and online membership directory. Following are a few additional promotional perks offered through your Chamber membership … make sure you’re taking advantage of them. For more information about these two promotional opportunities or to receive your Members Only login to download an ePlaque, contact the Chamber at (605) 336-1620.
role in the success of the Sioux Falls area through your membership in the Chamber. Customers can shop with ease knowing that you’re invested in our community.
DOWNLOAD THE MEMBERSHIP E-PLAQUE TO YOUR WEBSITE
www.SiouxFallsChamber.com
POST YOUR MEMBER WINDOW CLING You’ve seen them all over town … the 2014-15 Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce Proud Member window cling adorning the entry doors on more than 2,000 businesses and organizations in our community. By displaying this window cling, you tell customers that you play an integral
You can also post your window cling to online visitors and customers by downloading an ePlaque to your website. The window cling is reproduced in a virtual format that can be placed on your website. And because it’s virtual, the ePlaque automatically updates when the Chamber’s new fiscal year begins so it’s always current.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 39
MEMBER’S VOICE
To lean in or lean back — how to empower millennial women If you haven’t heard of Sheryl Sandberg’s bestselling book “Lean In,” it’s time to take notice. Published in 2013, this book examines why Sandberg believes women’s progress in leadership has stalled and provides solutions she found empowering for women to reach their full potential.
CHRISTIE ABERSON Great Western Bank
Sometimes, we need to put our foot on the brakes and it doesn’t mean we are failing if we do.
Empowerment is a popular buzzword these days, and for good reason. This February I attended the “In Her Shoes Empowerment Breakfast,” benefiting EmBe and Dress for Success. More than 600 women attended this event, which is astounding given this was only its second year of existence. I was electrified leaving the event — and not just because I won a free pair of shoes. The fellowship with other women in the community along with the inspiring speakers left us all feeling empowered, connected and understood. While there were fabulous women of all ages and backgrounds at this event, I couldn’t help but notice one group in particular: the millennial women. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics employment projections, millennials will become the majority of the workforce in 2015. A separate study showed that by 2020, 20 percent of the global workforce will be millennial women. The good news? Sioux Falls is on the right track for attracting this key segment in the workforce. Walking down Phillips Avenue one can’t help but notice the boom of businesses opening, and several of them are owned by women. Looking back, we can thank Forward Sioux Falls, the Chamber of Commerce and the Sioux Falls Development Foundation for laying the groundwork that has provided all of us the opportunity to plant our roots here and find success. The “brain drain” is gone. And, downtown isn’t the only success. The abundance of successful programs and events like the YPN Crossroads Summit, OTA, SME Women in Business, EmBe Women’s Leadership Program, Ink Her Dreams and Tribute to Women present opportunities for empowerment, collaboration and a sense of belonging — attributes that are held highly by female millennials. Millennials want work to be meaningful and to have fun while doing it. Organizations are starting to adapt: flexible work schedules, tuition reimbursement, gender-pay equality studies and the ability to work from home. These are all things millennial women not only look for, but expect. At Great Western Bank, members of the leadership team provided copies of “Lean In” to attendees of a women’s luncheon and as a result, a grassroots program WomenConnect was born. The mission of this company program was to develop leadership skills, build relationships and increase visibility for women. This new dynamic isn’t only empowering participants on a personal and professional level, but it’s creating awareness, camaraderie and company pride. I personally have been on the “Lean In” train for the last two years, but recently I learned there are multiple tracks. Sometimes we need to put our foot on the brakes, and it doesn’t mean we are failing if we do. We need strong men, women, communities and businesses to help us with our individual passions and priorities. Not everyone is meant to be CEO, but everyone can be a leader within themselves and excel. If we want to attract and retain millennial women — this is key. Lean In. Lean Back. The choice is yours. Christie Aberson is a Sioux Falls native and is a business banker at Great Western Bank. She also serves on the Chamber’s YPN Steering Committee and is participating in the EmBe Women’s Leadership Program.
40 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
BUSINESS NEWS
Volunteer for the 2015 Big Sioux River Greenway Cleanup Historically the Big Sioux River was an afterthought. Businesses turned their backs to the river. Today, Sioux Falls citizens value the river and recognize its importance as irreplaceable natural resource. One way to ensure the Big Sioux River continues to thrive is to participate in the 2nd Annual River Greenway Cleanup on Saturday, May 16 from 8-11 a.m. Last year, nearly two tons of garbage and 260 pounds
of recyclables were removed from the Big Sioux River and its banks. None of this could have been achieved without the help of many organizations, businesses and citizens who volunteered for the three-hour event. The City hopes to cover more ground in 2015, which will take additional volunteers. “The Big Sioux River is an incredible asset to Sioux Falls, and this cleanup event is a great way for the entire community to get
outside and make a difference. Our goal is to get the river and its banks in top-notch shape for summer activities and to improve the water quality of this critical natural resource,” said Matthew Gedney, City of Sioux Falls Environmental Analyst. If your organization is interested in participating in this fun and rewarding event, contact the Public Works Environmental Division at (605) 367-8276.
Chamber creates Sioux Empire Farm Show scholarship A new scholarship has been created for Sioux Empire Farm Show exhibitors attending or planning to attend a two- or four-year post-secondary school with plans to study agriculture. Funds for the scholarship were raised from the Sioux Falls area business community at a silent auction during the 2015 Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions dinner, which is part of the annual Farm Show. Applicants must be at least a senior in high school as of March 1 of the present year. GPA must be a minimum of 3.0 or greater. The
applicant must have exhibited at the Sioux Empire Farm Show during the year of application in one of the following shows: cattle, market lamb, market goat or market swine. A short essay on the topic of “What have you learned from your livestock exhibiting experiences and how will you plan to apply that knowledge to your future career endeavors?”
should also be included in the application. A resume or transcript should also be included. The application and full requirements can be found at siouxempirefarmshow.org. Applications must be received by Wednesday, April 15, 2015. Since 1954, the Sioux Empire Farm Show has been sponsored by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. For more information, contact Chamber Agri-Business Manager Cindy Christensen at (605) 373-2016.
Learn more about net neutrality at April 16 Policy & A Pint The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce strives to educate its members on issues of importance to the business community. The Chamber regularly studies issues and hosts events in order to share that information with Chamber members. A newer event called Policy & A Pint combines a networking opportunity with an educational forum. The latest installment will talk about net neutrality. This issue is the idea that everyone with an Internet connection should have equal access to video, music, email, photos, social networks, maps and other content, with some exceptions that allow Internet service providers to block spam and child pornography. U.S. Internet service providers typically oppose net neutrality, arguing it will discourage them from investing in network upgrades. They want the ability to charge Netflix and other content providers to access a fast lane to reach consumers.
42 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
The discussion will include a group of panelists in the industry and will be led by Jonathan Ellis with Argus Leader Media. Panelists include: Tom Simmons, Midcontinent Communications; Mark Shlanta, SDN Communications; Jeff Carmon, CenturyLink; Chris Nelson, South Dakota Public Utilities Commissioner; and a staff member from U.S. Sen. John Thune’s office. The event is open to the public and all Chamber members and YPN members are encouraged to attend. The event is free and will have complimentary hors d’oeuvres; the pints are on your own. For more information, contact YPN Manager Lauren Fosheim at lfosheim@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2009.
Thursday, April 16 5:30-7 p.m. Chef Dominique’s Catering & Banquet Facility, 230 S. Phillips Ave. Participants include representatives from CenturyLink, Midcontinent Communications, SDN Communications, U.S. Sen. John Thune’s office, and the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission. Cost: Free, complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar RSVP: lfosheim@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2009
Visitor Industry Updates CVB ATTENDS DESTINATIONS WEEK IN WASHINGTON, D.C.
The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) attended Destinations Week March 20-26 in Washington, D.C. Destinations Week is a gathering of industry professionals from across the U.S. and abroad coming together to celebrate the industry, generate new business and advocate for their destination. As part of Destinations Week in Washington, the Sioux Falls CVB took part in the Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI) Destinations Showcase, North America’s largest one-day trade show, on March 25. The tradeshow connects destinations to hundreds of meeting planners and association decision-makers from across the U.S. The show attracts pre-qualified meeting professionals representing associations, corporations, government agencies, independent planners and third-party meeting professionals. The CVB also took part in Destination Capitol Hill where they met with members of Congress to discuss issues that matter most to the travel industry in the U.S. and each respective state. The CVB also met with South Dakota’s delegation and learned about upcoming legislation, discussed opportunities and challenges in the travel industry, heard from travel experts and networked with key influencers. Destination Capitol Hill was coordinated by the U.S. Travel Association and the Power of Travel Coalition.
CVB TO ATTEND GOVERNMENT MEETING PLANNER CONFERENCE IN APRIL
The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) will travel to Minneapolis April 28-30 to attend the Society of Government Meeting Professionals’ (SGMP) 33rd Annual Conference. Their National Education Conference and Expo is the largest annual conference in the government meetings industry. Government professionals from around the U.S. come together to attend education sessions put on by industry experts and to network with exhibitors from across the nation. This conference is also the largest gathering of key exhibitors in the government meetings industry.
CVB TO ATTEND SPORTS SHOW
CVB Sales Manager Lucas Smith will travel to Milwaukee April 27-30 for the National Associations of Sports Commissions’ 23rd Annual Symposium. The symposium is a reverse tradeshow and features more than 800 sports tourism professionals. With more than 150 event owners in attendance, Smith will have the opportunity to speak with 30-40 tournament directors in an effort to showcase Sioux Falls as a top tier sports destination. The appointments feature a variety of sporting events from the National Collegiate Table Tennis Association to the USA Track & Field organization and a wide range of age groups from youth sports to senior level tournaments.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 43
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Ribbon Cuttings
The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce holds ribbon cutting ceremonies for members to celebrate joining the Chamber, milestone anniversaries, grand openings, expansions or remodelings. Ribbon cutting ceremonies are organized free of charge for members and are held Monday through Friday at 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The public and all Chamber members are invited to share in the celebration. Call (605) 336-1620 for more information or to schedule your event. Groundbreaking ceremonies are coordinated by the Sioux Falls Development Foundation. Call (605) 339-0103 for more information or to schedule your event.
9Round Fitness-West
8604 W. 26TH ST. 9round.com 9Round Fitness is a 30 minute kickboxing workout for all fitness levels. L to R: Don Koster, Bobbi Thury, Nathan Stallinga, Corey Willis (partner/head trainer), Kinsley and Kayla Willis, Lexie Jacobsen, Amy O’Connor Hoback and Julie Nelson. ADDITIONAL LOCATION
Artisan 57 Skin & Laser Center
3101 W. 57TH ST. artisan-57.com Artisan 57 Skin & Laser Center offers Sioux Falls and surrounding communities “A New Vision for Transformed Skin.” L to R: Christie Aberson, Abbey Mikkelsen, Liz Lloyd, Dr. Dave Kapaska, Dr. Alison Tendler (owner/partner/ founder), Deb Peterson, Corey Weide and Max Haggar. NEW MEMBER
Bagel Boy
3200 E. 26TH ST. bagelboysf.com Bagel Boy features made from scratch bagels baked fresh daily along with a full line of breakfast and lunch menu items. L to R: Judy Drowning, Matt Sage, Shelly Geller, Amy O’Connor Hoback, Corey Weide, Angie Gacke (owner), Lyle Gacke (owner), Julie Darrington, David Johnson, Rebecca Feldhaus, Bill O’Connor and Karen Hayes. NEW MEMBER
Empire Motorsports
NEW MEMBER
3500 N. CLIFF AVE. #100 empiremotorsportssf.com Empire Motorsports is the original equipment manufacturer dealership for Suzuki, KTM and Kymco as well as Husqvarna lawn garden equipment. L to R: Grant Cummings, Corey Weide, Joey Rotert, Ross Jasper (partner), Jason Jasper (partner), Tim Sturdevant, Doug Jasper (partner), Larry Wetsch and Ashley Barbee.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 45
RIBBON CUTTINGS Faith Family Church
127 N. SPRING AVE. faithfamilychurch.com Faith Family Church celebrated the completion of an 8,200 sq. ft. addition to the current facility. L to R: Greg Koppman, Jack Dyvig, Nancy Weber-Sweere, Andrew Bang, Michael Bang (senior pastor), Vicki Bang, Ruth Christopherson, Angela Honan, Corey Weide and Matt Honan. EXPANSION/REMODEL
Heritage Bank
NEW MEMBER
505 E. 5TH ST. #100, SIOUX CITY, IA heritagebankna.com Heritage Bank expanded into the Sioux Falls area. It has grown steadily over the generations, yet the mission as a traditional, communityfocused bank remains the same. L to R: Corey Weide, Justin Rey, Paul Thronson, Patty Kleinlein, Matt Sage, Keith Severson, Bob Mathiasen, Dave Brown (market president), Tom Geiger (CEO/Chair), Dave Eiesland (commercial banker/ VP), Bill Rezac, Claire Wehri and Lynda Billars.
High Plains Technology
NEW MEMBER
5708 S. REMINGTON PL. hplains.com High Plains Technology is a premier technology solution provider, with offices in five states, building IBM, Cisco, Lenovo, Nimble, Pure, Microsoft and VMware solutions. L to R: Tim Hoover, Keith Severson, Amy O’Connor Hoback, Matt Olson, Loren Mendel (partner), Jack Dyvig, Brad Mendel (partner), Jered Schock, Corey Weide and Adam Quaschnick.
Howe Consulting, LLC
howeconsultingsf.com Howe Consulting, LLC is focused on helping companies resolve their tough problems. L to R: Jay Soukup, Ruth Christopherson, Janel Cole, Corey Weide, Robert Howe (owner), Dean Karsky, Evie Howe, Dan Doyle and Stefanie Engebretson.
NEW MEMBER
Hoyt Consulting
hoytconsulting.net Hoyt Consulting focuses on communication. With better communication comes better results. L to R: Pete Krentz, Sheila Hoff, Corey Weide, Dean Karsky, Jodi Hoyt (consultant/ owner), Nathan Hoyt, Amy O’Connor Hoback and Dan Doyle.
NEW MEMBER
46 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
RIBBON CUTTINGS Kerolona, Inc.
1800 S. ALPINE AVE. #2 kerolona.com Kerolona, Inc. developed a new invention — all golfers will need the P5 Pu5her tee placement tool (patent pending). L to R: Brett Schlekeway, Lori Schlekeway, Nancy Frear, Robert Wehde, Peyton Frear, Nathan Stallinga, Ken Frear (president), Matt Sage, Daren Anderson, Jodi Heins, Dan Johnson and Russ Heins. NEW MEMBER
Little Tykes University
720 S. SYCAMORE AVE. littletykesuniversity.com Little Tykes University’s preschool offers a comfortable and home-like learning environment. L to R: Hillary Turner, Corey Weide, Castor Poore, Gita Hendricks, Paul Bruflat, Corri Poore (owner/director), Jay Soukup, Halley Poore, Steffanie Liston Holtrop and Orion Poore. NEW MEMBER
chambernews.com | Chamber News 47
RIBBON CUTTINGS Music Therapy Services of South Dakota, LLC
4103 S. SOUTHEASTERN AVE. The mission of Music Therapy Services of South Dakota, LLC is to improve quality of life for all individuals, one note at a time. L to R: Madison Barthelman, Adam Cooper, Corey Weide, Lora Barthelman (clinic director), Dean Karsky, Roger Barthelman and Larry Wetsch. NEW MEMBER
Pizza Rev
3901 W. 49TH ST. #103 pizzarev.com Pizza Rev is a national movement that’s all about empowering you to “craft your own” pizzas. L to R: LeAnn Robbins, Larry Ayres, Amy O’Connor Hoback, Bobbi Thury, Todd Porter (president), Carrie Dragt, Lexie Jacobsen and Tamen Robb. NEW MEMBER
Poppadox Pub
2808 S. MINNESOTA AVE. Poppadox Pub has been in business for more than 20 years and is a staple in Sioux Falls’ nightlife. L to R: Justin Moen, Aaron Clayton, Kayla O’Banion, Jim Slater, Corey Weide, Dr. Dave Kapaska, Dallas Boelman (president), Jeb Christensen (GM), Grant Galvin, Dean Karsky and Brad Needles. NEW MEMBER
Trail Ridge Retirement Community
3408 W. RALPH ROGERS RD. #100 trailridgeretirement.net Trail Ridge Retirement Community celebrated the opening of their new wellness center and front entrance. L to R: Jonas Leo, Corey Weide, Robert TeKolste, Dawn Patten (assistant administrator), Jason Honey, Christie Aberson, Larry Ayres and Angie Wahl. EXPANSION/REMODEL
U.S. Senator Mike Rounds
320 N. MAIN #A rounds.senate.gov U.S. Senator Mike Rounds’ constituent office in Sioux Falls is open to assist citizens with any issue(s) pertaining to the federal government. L to R: Michele Mustain, Lexy Schuman, Adam Cooper, Mark Johnston (east river director), U.S. Senator Mike Rounds, Nathan Stallinga, Stacy Wrightsman, Randy Bury and T.J. Nelson. NEW MEMBER
48 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
MEMBERSHIP
Member Anniversaries
Congratulations to the following members who are celebrating their milestone membership anniversaries this month and the new members who joined the Chamber in the last month. They are part of a continued commitment to our community through their investment in the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. To learn more about Chamber membership, contact (605) 336-1620 or sfacc@siouxfalls.com. Find a complete Membership Directory online at siouxfallschamber.com or on your smartphone using the Chamber’s app — search “Sioux Falls Chamber” in the Google Play or iTunes stores.
Founding Member
RE/MAX Professionals, Inc.
Member Since 1907 wellsfargo.com
Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Dakota, Inc.
Wells Fargo Bank
40 YEARS
remax.com
rmhcsouthdakota.org
15 YEARS
Bargain Barn Tire Center bargainbarntirecenter.com
Family Memorials by Gibson gibsonmonuments.com
Ramada Hotel & Suites
Van Buskirk Companies
siouxfallsramada.com
vbclink.com
30 YEARS
20 YEARS
Jarding Construction, Inc.
Headhunter’s Hairstylists, Inc. headhuntershairstylistsinc jardingconstruction.com
Baete-Forseth HVAC
Dacotah Bank
baeteforseth.com
dacotahbank.com
Minnwest Bank
Boy Scouts of America-Sioux Council
The Outdoor CampusGame, Fish & Parks Department
10 YEARS
siouxbsa.org
Hauge Associates, Inc. haugeassociates.com
outdoorcampus.org
minnwestbank.com
A+ Rentals and Realty Center aplus-rentals.com
Nelson & Nelson, CPA’s LLP
Certified Auto Glass
Nichols Media, Inc.
Cimarron Label
nelsoncpas.com
nicholsmedia.com
50 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
choosecertifiedautoglass.com cimarronlabel.com
MEMBERSHIP Edward Jones-Tom Loofe edwardjones.com
First Congregational Church firstcongucc.com
5 YEARS
Kids Against Hunger Sioux Falls kahsiouxfalls.org
First-year members who reinvested during their February anniversary month:
Mixed
Holiday Inn Express & Conference Center-Brandon
Cain Ellsworth & Company, LLP
Reemtsma Window Washers
Center for Visual Learning
Poet Nutrition
Sioux Empire Farmers Market
Child and Adolescent Therapy Clinic
Safelite Auto Glass
Sioux Falls Business & Professional Women, Inc.
Dewey Public Affairs and Strategic Communications
brandon-express.com dakotagold.com safelite.com
Signature Salon
mysignaturesalon.com
Southridge Healthcare southridgehealthcare.com
Staybridge Suites
staybridge.com/siouxfallssd
Swenson Investments & Commodities swensoncommodities.com
mixedgogreen.com rwindowwashers.com
siouxempirefarmersmarket.com
siouxfallsbpw.com
The Humane Society of the United States
cainellsworth.com
centerforvisuallearning.com offerkidshope.com
Express Employment Professionals
humanesociety.org
Fiedler Insurance
Washington Crossing
Fresh Coat of Sioux Falls
washingtoncrossingrc.com
freshcoatsiouxfalls.com
Sioux Falls Psychological Services offermehope.com
South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame
chambernews.com | Chamber News 51
New Members
New members are printed in each issue of Chamber News. Following is a list of businesses or individuals who have invested in the greater community by joining the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. An online Membership Directory can be found at siouxfallschamber.com or by using the Chamber’s App, available in the iTunes and Google Play stores. Want to become a member? Call (605) 336-1620.
1st Global Tax Corporation
Macho Nacho
RMS Roller Grinder
Tax Services Isaiah Rangel, Jr., (605) 274-2549 519 W. 10th St., 57104
Restaurants Christine Strassen, (605) 275-9494 3308 E. 10th St., 57103 machonacho.com
Associate Member Maggie Pearson, (605) 368-9007 Ext:4 27271 Iron Works Ave., Harrisburg, SD 57032 rmsroller-grinder.com
Mathnasium of Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls Kitchen & Bath
Education Matthew & Susan Manes, (605) 334-6284 5009 S. Western Ave. #230, 57108 mathnasium.com/siouxfalls
Custom Cabinets Shelly Buxton, (605) 368-9684 27063 Henry Pl., 57108 siouxfallskitchenandbath.com
New York Life-Ben Plummer
Teresa Jackson & Associates, LLC
Affiliate-Insurance Ben Plummer, (605) 610-6627 5101 S. Nevada Ave., Ste. 200, 57108 facebook.com/BenPlummerNYL
Marketing/Advertising Teresa L. Jackson, (605) 376-2473 PO Box 1637, 57101 teresajacksonassociates.com
Ode to Food & Drinks (Blue Cherry LLC)
Two Men And A Truck
Restaurants Theresa Flannery, (908) 723-3273 300 N. Cherapa Pl., Ste. 101, 57103 odetogoodfood.com
Moving & Storage Jeff Lodike, (314) 267-1722 222 N. Marion Rd. Ste. B, 57107
Armor Construction, Inc. Construction David Luna, (605) 496-6249 2522 W. 41st St. #253, 57105 armorconstructionpro.com
BodyLogic Massage Studio Massage Therapy Toni Moriston, (605) 836-0021 5709 S. Remington Pl., Ste. 100, 57108
Credentialing USA, Inc. Health Care Lavonne J. McKee, (605) 214-1401 2329 N. Career Ave., Ste. 117, 57107 credentialingusa.com
Electric Innovations Security Control Equipment Tasha Barker, (712) 224-3800 2300 7th St., Sioux City, IA 51105 eicpro.com
First Interstate Bank Mortgages Dick Groeger, (605) 977-8501 4930 S. Western Ave., Ste. 100, 57108 firstinterstatebank.com
Horse Help Providers, Inc. (Double HP) Associate Member Darci Hortness, (605) 359-0961 25337 470th Ave., Crooks, SD 57020 newhopehorses.org
52 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
Redlinger Bros. Plumbing & Heating Mechanical Contractors Adam Redlinger, (605) 759-7923 27090 Kerslake Ave., Unit #1, Tea, SD 57064 redlingerbros.com
Willadsen Lund Engineering, Inc. Engineers Eric Willadsen, (605) 338-6950 902 S. Cleveland Ave., 57103 willadsenlund.com
FIVE QUESTIONS Five questions is a monthly feature on a Chamber volunteer, Chamber member or staff member. Want to be featured here? Call (605) 336-1620.
Five questions with Shelly Munson Shelly Munson is a family law and litigation attorney at Woods, Fuller, Shultz & Smith, P.C., in downtown Sioux Falls. Munson is a member of the Chamber’s Young Professionals Network Steering Committee, a Leadership Sioux Falls class 25 graduate and has enjoyed volunteering for and attending countless YPN and Chamber activities.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SIOUX FALLS? Sioux Falls has it all! My girlfriends and I take one weekend get-away every year (no husband, no kids). While we were deciding this past year where we should go, I asked, “Why go anywhere when everything we want to do is right here in Sioux Falls?” We golfed with Great Life, shopped and ate downtown, tanned and relaxed at Wild Water West and never had to drive or fly anywhere. Now we can enjoy a concert at the Events Center and even visit a local winery. I think the ladies’ weekend “stay-cation” is here to stay. Now we need to make it a monthly rather than annual event!
WHAT IS ONE OF SIOUX FALLS’ BEST-KEPT SECRETS? SHELLY MUNSON
Woods, Fuller, Shultz & Smith, P.C.
Many have answered “its people.” I agree entirely and will take it one step further. Our Chamber members are highly talented at what we do. There is a false impression held by some that Minneapolis, Chicago, Omaha, etc. offer higher quality services or products. I disagree entirely. I have worked with many intelligent and talented individuals and businesses here in Sioux Falls and cannot see why anybody would look outside Sioux Falls for their professional needs or pay more to work with someone farther away when there are top-notch professionals here in Sioux Falls.
WHAT IS THE BEST THING THE CHAMBER DOES FOR THE SIOUX FALLS AREA? Our Chamber hustles. It truly cares about each of its members and looks for ways to protect and help each of those businesses succeed, knowing each member’s success improves our community. I particularly appreciate how the Chamber represents its members during the legislative session and makes sure any new or modified laws are good for Sioux Falls.
WHAT ARE YOU READING RIGHT NOW? I have a 12- and 11-year-old who I try to inspire to read. I do this by selecting book series we can read and discuss together. My kids are essentially my book club, and I can tell you after reading legal cases, briefs and pleadings all day, I am unashamed to come home and read for nothing but enjoyment. We recently finished the Percy Jackson and Divergent series and are onto the Maze Runner series. I admit I have loved every mindless minute reading at this fifth grade level.
WHEN YOU WERE A FRESHMAN IN HIGH SCHOOL, WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? I’ve wanted to be a lawyer since about fifth grade, but I remember during high school having to decide between a lawyer and a pastor (as opposite as those career paths may seem). It was not an easy choice, but I’m happy I decided to practice law for my career and teach religious education as my stewardship. It’s a great mix.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 53
FROM THE ARCHIVES
As a membership organization with a history spanning more than a century, the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce has influenced progress across the community in a number of ways throughout the decades.
Longfellow Elementary School, pictured in 1931, is the oldest elementary school in the Sioux Falls School District. It will close at the end of the 2014-15 school year and DakotAbillities will renovate it to consolidate its programs at the newly-renamed DakotAbilities Longfellow Center. For more information about the campaign, see pages 34-35.
A new use for a historic building
DakotAbilities to take over Longfellow Elementary In May 2015 the doors of Longfellow Elementary School will close after serving students for nearly 100 years. Students from Mark Twain and Longfellow elementary schools will transition to the new Susan B. Anthony Elementary School, which will open the fall of 2015. Longfellow, the oldest building in the district, was built in 1916, and Mark Twain in 1920. Both schools will close in 2015. Ground was broken May 8, 2014 for a new $10.2 million elementary school to combine Mark Twain and Longfellow elementary schools. Susan B. Anthony Elementary will mirror the historic nature of neighboring central Sioux Falls homes. Mark Twain will be razed and the new school will be built on its site at 28th Street and Dakota Avenue.
54 Chamber News | APRIL 2015
Longfellow was purchased by DakotAbilities for $650,000 and the building will be renamed DakotAbilities Longfellow Center. The DakotAbilities Opening Doors campaign is the Chamber’s current Community Appeals capital campaign; see the story on pages 34-35 for more details. After remodeling the building, DakotAbilities will consolidate from two locations into one and rename the building the DakotAbilities Longfellow Center.