Annual guide to Sioux Falls area legislators
Top stories
Operation Thank You returns 37
In this issue
Message from the Chair 5 Event Calendars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-11
Economic Indicators 13 Noteworthy 15 Faces & Places 16-24 Community Appeals 25 Business Advocacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34-36
Using Your Membership 37 Ribbon Cuttings 38-43 Member Anniversaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 New Members 45 Five Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
ON THE COVER
The Capitol building in Pierre, South Dakota. The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce is preparing for the 2023 legislative session.
Chamber News
Publisher
Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce
Chamber News Ad Sales
For advertising information, call Steven Herman at (605) 373-2013 or email chambernews@siouxfalls.com
Chamber News Layout/Design Jill Blom
Chamber News Editor
Jennie Doyen
For editorial information, call: (605) 336-1620
Chamber News is published by the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce, 200 N Phillips Ave , Suite 200, Sioux Falls, SD 57104
Postmaster please send address changes to: Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce 200 N Phillips Ave , Suite 200, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 Phone: (605) 336-1620 • Email: gsfcc@siouxfalls com
Chamber Mission
As the leading Sioux Falls area business advocate, the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce represents its members by advancing and promoting the economic health and quality of life of the region.
Message from the Chair
The 2022 general election has come and gone. The people of South Dakota have spoken, and I am glad that the voters saw the need to expand Medicaid eligibility for thousands of working people in our state. Extending health care coverage to more citizens will translate into a healthier workforce – and that’s good for business!
The approval of Constitutional Amendment D is one example of the power of advocacy. Medicaid expansion was a topic of discussion among policy makers for several years before it came to a vote of the people.
Hanson 2022-23 Chair of the BoardAdvocacy
work is often unseen, but it can be incredibly valuable to a business
Advocacy work is often unseen, but it can be incredibly valuable to a business. Having someone looking out for your business interests in the public policy realm is comparable to a security system or business insurance – when things are going well it can be easy to take it for granted. You might even be tempted to think you don’t need it. When something goes wrong though, you will be glad you have it.
The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce works tirelessly to ensure that the voice of busi ness is heard at all levels of government. The position our Chamber takes on issues or initiatives, is driven by members and led by our Issues Management Council and Board of Directors. These volunteers represent the collective whole of the business community. They demonstrate an ability to clearly articulate the needs and expectations of business, and then use that to form and influence public policy.
This doesn’t just happen. As Chamber members, we pride ourselves on our ability to work together, even when we don’t see eye to eye on everything. We represent our members truthfully, and our efforts are respected by elected officials and public servants. The trust you have in the Chamber’s ability to represent the interests of the broader community gives our Chamber team the confidence to communicate our intent to lead the discussion or be the expert resource at the table.
Most importantly, the advocacy efforts of the Chamber enables our business community to work toward solving problems or enhancing existing solutions. Regardless of whether you actively engage in the Chamber’s advocacy work or not – it is one of the most valuable aspects of your membership.
Working together and advocating for the collective best interests of the Sioux Falls community… it’s just who we are.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Chair Paul Hanson, Sanford Health
Chair-Elect Scott Lawrence, Lawrence & Schiller, Inc.
Vice Chair Miles Beacom, PREMIER Bankcard
Treasurer Tamien Dysart, Think 3D Solutions
Immediate Past Chair Alex Ramirez, USA Media TV
Chamber President & CEO Jeff Griffin
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Joe Bunkers, Gage Brothers
Kim Burma, Midco
Kayla Eitreim, Junior Achievement of South Dakota
Dr. José-Marie Griffiths, Dakota State University
Jason Herrboldt, First Bank & Trust
Derrick Larson, Eide Bailly LLP
Jeff Lautt, POET
Tolcha Mesele, Smithfield Foods
COMMERCE LEADERSHIP
Jacob Quasney, Lloyd Companies
Nancy Savage, Child’s Play Toys
Nathan Stallinga, DakotAbilities
Amy Stockberger, Amy Stockberger Real Estate
Vicki Stewart, Business Resource Network
Bob Sutton, Avera Health
EX-OFFICIO
Kyle Groos, Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools
Cindy Heiberger, Minnehaha County Commission
Jim Schmidt, Lincoln County Commission
Kate Serenbetz, Sioux Falls School Board
Dr. Jane Stavem, Sioux Falls Public School System
Mayor Paul TenHaken, City of Sioux Falls
Jeff Griffin, President & CEO
Diane Balk, Accounting Manager
Joan Bartling, Vice President of Finance & Accounting
Justin Bentaas, Public Affairs & Research Manager
Jill Blom, Graphics & Communications Manager
Casey Boerger, Young Professionals Network Manager
Kyle Davis, Member Services Specialist
Jennie Doyen, Vice President of Member Services
Becky Griebel, Administrative Assistant
Elizabeth Heidinger, Member Services Specialist
Brooke Hendrickx, Agribusiness Manager
Steven Herman, Sales Manager
Pat Lund, Member Relations Manager
Mike Lynch, Executive Director of Investor Relations, Forward Sioux Falls
Debra Owen, Vice President of Government Relations
Holly Rader, Vice President of Member Relations
Teresa Schreier, Events Coordinator
Susan Seachris, Administrative/Accounting Assistant
Events Calendar CHAMBER
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
FEATURED EVENTS
MEMBERSHIP
MIXER
SPONSORED BY:
Tuesday, Dec. 13 4:30–6:30 p m First Interstate Bank 225 S Main Ave
Thursday, Jan. 5 7–8:30 a .m
Hilton Garden Inn Downtown 201 E 8th St
DETAILS: The annual Legislative Preview features Sioux Falls area legislators discussing their goals for the 2023 legislative session New executives and leaders in the business commu nity will also be introduced Breakfast will be served
COST: $30
RSVP: siouxfallschamber com
Morning Mingle
Tuesday, Dec. 6 7:30–9 a m
South Dakota Military Heritage Alliance, Inc 1600 W . Russell St .
DETAILS: Start your day by making a new connection . The December Morning Mingle is hosted by Associated Builders & Contractors
COST: Free
Business Sense Workshop: Why accessibility matters for your website Tuesday, Dec. 13 11 a m –Noon Zoom
DETAILS: Your website is your company’s digital front door, so it is important for it to be accessible to all customers In this Business Sense Workshop, you’ll learn what is included in website accessibility, how people with disabilities use online technology and the legal landscape surrounding the issue Mychelle Garrigan, Firelink Digital Marketing LLC, will review common accessibility challenges and teach you the best ways to resolve them on your website COST: $10
DE&I Activator Series: Multi-generational workforce dynamics Wednesday, Dec. 14 8:15–9:15 a m Zoom
DETAILS: This engaging session will explore the dynamics and traits of each of the five generations currently comprising today’s workforce Participants will learn about the impact of generational differences and how to articulate strategies to optimize inclusion and collaboration between generations COST: Free
DE&I Activator Series: Empathy building, psychological safety & cultural humility Wednesday, Jan. 11 8:15–9:45 a .m . Best Western Plus Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center 3200 W Maple St COST: Free
Operation Thank You
Thursday, Jan. 19
7:30 a m Kickoff 4:30 p m Wrap-up Holiday Inn City Centre, 100 W . 8th St .
DETAILS: Hundreds of volunteers will hand-deliver membership decals and thank you cards to every Chamber member business Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are available, see page 37 for details
Sioux Empire Livestock Show
Tuesday, Jan. 24 – Sunday, Jan. 29
W H Lyon Fairgrounds Expo Building 100 N Lyon Blvd
DETAILS: Celebrate the impact of agriculture in the Sioux Empire! Livestock shows and sales take place throughout the week and commercial exhibits are open for the duration of the show For more information, visit siouxempirelivestockshow com
Mayor’s Round Up and Sale of Champions
Friday, Jan. 27
W H Lyon Fairgrounds Expo Building 100 N Lyon Blvd
DETAILS: Join area business leaders in supporting agriculture by participating in this auction of the best market livestock from the Sioux Empire Livestock Show The evening includes a steak dinner and a silent auction to fund scholarships for students COST: $50 per ticket, $400 for a table of eight
We invite you and your employees to attend these upcoming Membership Mixers:
TUESDAY
Jan. 17
4:30-6:30 p .m . Click Rain, Inc , 217 N Nesmith Ave
THURSDAY
Feb. 16
4:30-6:30 p m .
First International Bank & Trust, 601 S Minnesota Ave
TUESDAY March 14
4:30-6:30 p .m . El Riad Shrine, 510 S Phillips Ave
TUESDAY
April 11
4:30-6:30 p .m .
Dow Rummel Village, 1321 W Dow Rummel St
TUESDAY May 9
4:30-6:30 p m . Location TBD
TUESDAY June 20
4:30-7 p .m . Details to follow
UPCOMING EVENTS
GREATER SIOUX FALLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
To RSVP to any of these events, visit siouxfallsypn com or call (605) 373-2002 Visit siouxfallsypn com for a full list of events
Morning Buzz
Thursday, Dec. 1
7:30–9 a m .
First PREMIER Bank 500 S . Minnesota Ave .
DETAILS: Join other YPN members for networking while getting your morning buzz (coffee) Morning-minded young professionals are invited to enjoy coffee and conversation with other YPN members at our Morning Buzz Bring along your favorite holiday mug to help us spread holiday cheer!
COST: Free
Community Connections Tour –DakotAbilities
Monday, Dec. 5 Noon–1 p m
DakotAbilities 1116 S 4th Ave
DETAILS: YPN Community Connections Tours provide the opportunity to get an inside look at a local business Go behind the scenes at DakotAbilities This tour is co-hosted with Emerging Leaders
COST: Free
The Kringle Thursday, Dec. 8
7–10 p m
The Country Club of Sioux Falls 3400 W . 22nd St .
DETAILS: Join your fellow young professionals for a festive night at one of the last YPN events in 2022! The Kringle, sponsored by Pinnacle Productions, is a night of mingling and fun to celebrate the holiday season Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, door prizes and a festive photo booth Cocktail attire is encouraged This is an event for everyone – we encourage you to bring your spouse, significant other or BFF! Don’t miss out on one of our biggest celebrations of the year! This year we are collecting items for LifeScape All donations will be given to the organization for distribution Bring your donation to the Kringle and receive a FREE drink compliments of Discovery Real Estate Co – Keller Williams Realty Sioux Falls
COST: Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door Tickets are non-refundable
Find us on social media or visit siouxfallsypn com
Our Sioux Falls: Call to Freedom Tuesday, Dec. 20
Noon 1 p m . Chamber of Commerce 200 N Phillips Ave
DETAILS: Learn more about the organizations in the community where you live and work through programs that give details behind items impacting your quality of life
COST: Free, registration required
Action Team Meetings
You can help shape key areas of YPN programming by joining an Action Team All team meetings are open to any YPN member who would like to get involved Volunteering with an Action Team is a great way to strengthen professional connections and exercise your skills in collaboration, facilitation and project management
For more details on the responsibilities of each team, visit siouxfallsypn com
Social Action Team
Tuesday, Dec. 6, 4–5 p.m. Wiley’s 330 N . Main Ave
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Events listed on these pages are curated from entries submitted to siouxfallsevents com and experiencesiouxfalls com/events Visit these websites for details on the events listed here and more events happening in the Sioux Falls area
All events are subject to change. Please check the online events calendars for the most recent updates.
DECEMBER
1-4 Disney On Ice: Find Your Hero
2 Men’s Basketball: Gonzaga vs. Baylor at Sanford Pentagon
2 Shaun Johnson and the Big Band Experience
2-3 South Dakota Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah at First Lutheran Church
2-4 Christmas with C.S. Lewis at Washington Pavilion
3 605 Made Holiday Market at Cherapa Place
3 Tonic Sol-Fa at Washington Pavilion
4 Rocky Mountain High Experience at The Alliance
7 A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage
8 Big Sioux River and Sustainability Summit
8 Three Fiddlers Holiday at Washington Pavilion
9-10 Twas the Week After Christmas
9-10 St. Lucia Festival at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church
9-11 Rodeo Extravaganza at W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds
10 Five Finger Death Punch & Brantley Gilbert at PREMIER Center
10-11 Christmas with the Symphony: ‘Tis the Season!
11 Jim Brickman: A Very Merry Christmas
15 Grouchmas at Sioux Falls Convention Center
15 Women’s Basketball: South Carolina vs. South Dakota State at Sanford Pentagon
15-16 The Good Night Theatre Collective Presents: Little Women
15-18 Christmas at the Cathedral at Cathedral of St. Joseph
16 CoComelon Live! JJ’s Journey
17 Holiday Jam with the Hegg Brothers
17 Wreaths Across America Day at South Dakota Veterans Cemetery
17 A Bluegrass Christmas with Monroe Crossing at Washington Pavilion
17-30 The Premiere Playhouse presents a Christmas Carol
18 An Intimate Christmas with Lorie Line
20 Christmas with Michael W. Smith, special guest Michael Tait
28 Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Sioux City Musketeers
29 Bear Grillz at The District
30 Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Waterloo Black Hawks
JANUARY
6
First Friday in downtown Sioux Falls
6 Frosty Fun Friday at Memorial Park
7
Frosty Frolics Fun Run at Spencer Park
13-14 On Your Feet! at Washington Pavilion
14 Casey Donahew at The District
15 Bridal Show at The Atrium at Blue Haven
15 South Dakota Bicycle Summit at Orpheum Theater
19 Chris Janson at The District
19-21 Sno Jam Comedy Festival
20-21 Toughest Monster Truck Tour
20-22 35th Annual Greater Sioux Falls Outdoor Show
20-22 Newsical at Orpheum Theater
21 South Dakota Symphony Orchestra: Du and Dvorak
24 2023 Soil Health Conference at Best Western Plus Ramkota Hotel
24-29 Sioux Empire Livestock Show at W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds
25-27 Sioux Falls Farm Show at Denny Sanford PREMIER Center
26-28
The Good Night Theatre Collective presents: Reefer Madness
28 Ice Fish Fest at Catfish Bay
FEBRUARY
1
First Friday in downtown Sioux Falls
2 Muscadine Bloodline at The District
3-4 Tootsie at Washington Pavilion
9 Ilya Yakushev and Thomas Mesa at Washington Pavilion
13-14 R.E.S.P.E.C.T. at Washington Pavilion
16 Lewis Black: Off the Rails at Orpheum Theater
17 Blake Shelton at Denny Sanford PREMIER Center
17-20 Jurassic Quest at W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds
18
Sioux Empire on Tap
21 The Roommates Tour at Orpheum Theater
24-26 Sioux Empire Home Show
25-28 NSIC/Sanford Health Men’s & Women’s Basketball Tournament
Regional
Rates
FROM THE
One of the joys of the holiday season is the opportunity to say thank you and to wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.
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
ADVOCACY IN ACTION
What happens in government – whether at City Hall or in the halls of Congress – has the potential to impact your business. The Chamber serves as the eyes, ears and voice of the business community, advocating for business-friendly policies. We represent the interests of our members at all levels of government, so you can concentrate on your business.
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. Submit news to jdoyen@siouxfalls.com.
Recognition of Chamber Volunteers
The Ambassador Committee promotes the Chamber and assists in bringing new members into the organization. The Diplomat Committee works to maintain membership strength in the Chamber and provide outstanding customer service to members. Their volunteer service helps to keep the Chamber strong.
Featured Ambassadors this month are Kristin Hoefert-Redlinger, Northwestern Mutual, six years as an ambassador; and Megan Kjose, Feeding South Dakota, one year as an ambassador
The ACE Award is presented monthly to one ambassador in recognition of their efforts to bring new members into the Chamber. Jay Soukup, Stifel Investment Services, received the Ace Award for October.
This month’s featured diplomat is Cole Robbins, Dacotah Bank, five years as a diplomat.
The diplomat of the month for November was Dino DePerno, Keller Williams Realty of Sioux Falls. Nicole
Bankcard, was honored as
The diplomat team of the month for November was Team Menning: Captain Christy Menning, McCrossan Boys Ranch; Sandy Case, community volunteer; Derrick Karsky, Farmers Insurance Group/Karsky Agency; Melissa Burmeister, CellOnly; Bethany Buitenbos, Chick-fil-A Empire Place
New Faces & Promotions
Brooke Hendrickx has joined the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce as the Agribusiness Manager. She will lead the activities and coordinate volunteers within the Chamber’s Agribusiness Division. She will also serve as Show Manager for the Sioux Empire Livestock Show. Hendrickx holds a degree in agriculture leadership from South Dakota State University. She previously worked for the State Fair of Texas.
First Bank & Trust has promoted five lead ers within their organization. Jason Herrboldt has been promoted to Chief Banking Officer. He was previously the Market President in Sioux Falls and Chief Retail Officer for the organization. Herrboldt now oversees all of First Bank & Trust’s 22 bank locations in 17 communities in Minnesota and South Dakota. Sadie Bell succeeds Herrboldt as Chief Retail Officer, managing retail and consumer banking across the organization, as well as leading the efforts of the cash management team. Bell previously served as Director of Retail Banking in Sioux Falls. Bell has more than 18 years of experience in banking. Adam Kniffen succeeds Herrboldt as Sioux Falls Market President. He previously served as VP, Business Banking Manager. Kniffen has 18 years of banking experience. Chief Financial Officer Carrie Wilson has added Chief Operations Officer to her responsibilities. She now oversees technology and operations in addition to the
Acquisitions/Mergers
VIKOR Teleconstruction has acquired Noash Construction, Inc., a tower construc tion company based out of Sebree, Kentucky. VIKOR and Noash are both long time members of NATE: The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association, a nonprofit trade association for tower erection, maintenance, and service companies. Both have made investments in training and support for their field staff to assist them in maintaining quality and efficiency. Though VIKOR offers services nationwide, its strongest presence has been within the Plains and Rocky Mountain states. Noash’s primary footprint, which includes Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana and beyond, will expand VIKOR’s presence further south.
Action Lawn and Tree Service has merged with Weller Brothers Landscaping. The
finance teams. Chief Risk Officer Kristina Schaefer has been given the added role of Chief Administrative Officer, acquiring the oversight of human resources in addition to her current responsibilities.
First PREMIER Bank has added Shari Pyle as a senior investment advisor in its investment services division. Pyle has more than 28 years of professional experience. She holds series 7 and 66 registrations, as well as a life and health license. Scott Olson has joined First PREMIER Bank as vice president, head of wealth management. Olson has more than 20 years of professional banking and wealth management experience. He has a bachelor’s degree from Dakota State University and is a Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor (CTFA).
Caliber Creative promoted Mandy Sturdevant to art director. Sturdevant joined the Caliber team six years ago as a designer.
In her new role, she will oversee and delegate projects within the design team. She will also be more involved in the campaign development process and will take ideas all the way to execution.
Madison Olafson has been named wealth management development and trust advisor at Security National Bank of South Dakota In his role, he will manage various accounts including trusts, estates, agencies, custodial accounts and IRAs. In addition, he will work
on new business development for the wealth management department. Olafson holds a bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctorate from the University of South Dakota and is also a member of the South Dakota Bar Association.
Center for Disabilities welcomed Roxann Peterson as a department assistant. Peterson earned her bachelor and master’s degrees in education from USD and has more than sixteen years of teaching experience. Peterson will work closely with the community training team, providing training for educators and other professionals who support individuals with disabilities and their families.
LSS of South Dakota has appointed Valeria Wicker to lead the Multi-Cultural Center in Sioux Falls. She began her new role on November 1. LSS and the Multi-Cultural Center began integrating programming in October of 2022 with intent to fully transition by year-end. Wicker previously worked for South Dakota State University as a program coordinator for work with Lakota/Dakota programming. She has ten years of experience in education, including more than five years with tribal nations. Wicker has a Master of Arts in Teaching, a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish/ American Studies, and is fluent in Spanish.
merger allows Weller Brothers to expand their lawn and landscape services to include enhanced pest control and a full scope of tree healthcare, pruning and removal services. Weller Brothers Landscaping is in its 21st year of business in the Sioux Falls area and recently expanded to a new facility in Rochester, Minnesota. The Sioux Falls location employs approximately 100 people. Action Lawn and Tree Service has operated in Sioux Falls since 2016 and will continue to serve its existing customer base as a division of Weller Brothers Landscaping.
Sanford Health and Fairview Health Services have signed a non-binding letter of intent to combine and create a new health system. Together, the combined system will bring together Sanford Health’s experience
serving rural populations with Fairview Health Services’ experience in serving urban populations across complementary geographic footprints. Sanford Health and Fairview Health Services will remain nonprofit entities, each with their own regional presence, leadership and regional boards in the markets they serve. Upon close of the transaction, the name of the parent company will be Sanford Health.
Sanford Health CEO Bill Gassen will serve as president and CEO of the combined system, and Fairview Health Services CEO James Hereford will serve as co-CEO for a period of one year post-closing. The intention is for a definitive agreement to be signed and the clos ing of the transaction is anticipated in 2023, pending antitrust and other necessary reviews and closing conditions.
Honors & Awards
The Sioux Falls Development Foundation honored the late Mark Shlanta with its Spirit of Sioux Falls Award at the 2022 Annual Meeting. The award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated leadership and commitment to the economic growth and development of Sioux Falls. The award honors the memory of David Birkeland, Angus Anson and Roger Hainje, who perished along with Governor George Mickelson and other state officials and staff in 1993 as they returned from an economic development mission. Shlanta was the longtime CEO of SDN Communications and was active in many areas of the community.
Avera Careflight was named Program of the Year by the Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS). AAMS presents the award to an emergency medical transport service (national or international) that has demonstrated a superior level of patient care, management prowess, high-quality leadership through visionary and innovative approaches, customer service, safety consciousness, marketing ingenu ity, community service, and a commitment to the medical transport community as a whole. Avera’s Careflight service has base locations in Sioux Falls, Aberdeen and Pierre and serves a five-state region.
The South Dakota Retailers Association has named Minerva’s as Restaurant of the Year for 2022. The award recognizes a South Dakota
Good Deeds
The Gordon Flesch Charitable Foundation donated $21,000 to six organizations in Iowa and South Dakota. Organizations within their Iowa and South Dakota service territory that received grants in 2022 include the Brittany Corcoran Scholarship Fund, which awards a scholarship to a graduating senior female hockey player in the state of South Dakota to attend an accredited post-secondary education
restaurant with a reputation of excellence in food, service and atmosphere. Minerva’s first opened as a creperie in 1977. Today, the restaurant is known for its diverse and delicious selection of food, warm and inviting atmo sphere, and outstanding hospitality.
Insight Marketing Design, Inc. has been named as Top Agency in the Summit International Awards competition for outstand ing advertising and marketing work. In the same competition, they won five awards for creative work developed for clients – three gold, one silver and one bronze. The Summit International Awards draws entries from creative agencies in 19 countries.
JLG Architects was recognized by the Star Tribune with a 2022 Top Workplaces Award. They were named a Gold Badge Winner in Culture Excellence in the category of WomanLed Companies. The firm is led by CEO Michelle Mongeon Allen. They have 10 offices in four states, with 170 employee-owners.
The Helpline Center has named Dee Hass the October 2022 Volunteer of the Month. The area-wide award program is sponsored by the Helpline Center and Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Dakota. Hass volunteers as a senior companion, providing supportive services that enable adults who need some assis tance to maintain independent living. Since
beginning the Senior Companion Program in 2015, Hass has volunteered over 8,000 hours. She is currently serving 16 hours each week with her six clients.
The South Dakota Defense Lawyers Association (SDDLA) honored Ashley Brost, Davenport, Evans, Hurwitz & Smith, LLP, with its 2022 SDDLA Associate Lawyer Award (Rising Star). The award honors an SDDLA associate member who has consistently demonstrated growing professional excel lence and service to his or her community. Brost earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Augustana University, a Master of Education degree from the University of Sioux Falls and a Juris Doctorate from the University of South Dakota. She has been appointed a Criminal Justice Act defense attorney for the United States District Court for the District of South Dakota and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. Brost is an active volunteer with McCrossan Boys Ranch, Family Visitation Center, Lutheran Social Services and Sioux Empire Teen Court.
institution of their choice; and the McCrossan Boys Ranch, which serves at-risk youth in the Sioux Falls area. The Gordon Flesch Charitable Foundation is managed entirely by company associates. Each year associates nominate organizations close to their hearts and close to their communities. The foundation’s board of directors reviews nominations and selects award recipients.
Be Seen
Be Seen
6-7 Security National Bank hosted Chamber members for a Morning Mingle in October. President Brian Egeberg welcomed attendees, who enjoyed coffee, scones and networking. 8-9 The November Morning Mingle was hosted by McCrossan Boys Ranch at their new Visitor Center. Guests were welcomed by Executive Director Brian Roegiers, who shared the organizations plans to expand their campus.
10 YPN members got to go behind the scenes at Millennium Recycling during a Community Connections Tour of their facility on the north side of Sioux Falls. Brian Roegiers, who shared the organizations plans to expand their campus.
Be Seen 12 13
11 YPN members meet to discuss professional development books at the monthly meeting of YPs Read. 12-13 The DE&I Activator Series launched a new set of seven workshops with an in-person training session, led by Naomi Ludeman. This series will run monthly through May of 2023 and will alternate between virtual learning and in-person workshops.
11
Be Seen
14 Members of Leadership Sioux Falls class 37 learned about the history of Sioux Falls from local community leaders during a recent session. 15-16 Young professionals gathered at the new Caribou Coffee on 12th Street for YPN’s Morning Buzz in November.
Community Appeals
GREATER SIOUX FALLS 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 to the business community.
By vetting capital fund drives, the objective of Community Appeals is to affirm the project is a sound community investment and worthy of donor consideration.
It is the intent of the Chamber to encour age every business to carefully consider such requests. However, we also ac knowledge that many businesses have limited resources for capital fund drives, both in an ability to properly evaluate them and a sufficient budget to contrib ute. Our Community Appeals process is intended to provide our members with assurance that a Community Appeals campaign is worthy of investment.
MCCROSSAN BOYS RANCH
NOV. 1, 2022–MARCH 31, 2023
To expand/renovate the McCrossan School and construct an outdoor athletic complex.
ACTIVE GENERATIONS
APRIL 1, 2023–JULY 31, 2023
To add a second Active Generations location on the east side of Sioux Falls.
VETERANS COMMUNITY PROJECT
NOV. 1, 2023-MARCH 31, 2024
To build a village of 25 tiny homes for homeless veterans in the Sioux Falls area. A Village Center will also be constructed to facilitate behavioral/physical wellness, serving to link to other services.
LIFESCAPE HOSPITAL & SCHOOL
APRIL 1, 2024-JULY 31, 2024
To construct a new campus to increase residential service capacity, specialty school capacity and outpatient services.
Anyone can get the job done, but doing it right is a different matter entirely. That’s why, at Security National Bank, we’ll dot the i’s and cross the t’s and take care of all the little things that impact your bigger picture. The details matter around here because you matter to us.
Annual Guide to Sioux Falls area legislators
Advocacy is a valuable component of your Chamber membership. Decisions made by elected officials frequently and directly affect the way business is conducted. The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce seeks to be the voice of business during each South Dakota legislative session.
The Chamber’s annual guide to area legislators is one element that helps fulfill our objective to provide Chamber members with essential information pertaining to the legislative session. This guide features legislators representing Sioux Falls area districts, which include Districts 2, 6, 9-16 and 25.
To help you stay informed about issues and activity, the Chamber hosts a number of events and provides regular updates during the legislative session. Events include Good Morning Sioux Falls legislative preview, Sioux Falls Day at the Legislature and Legislative Coffees. The weekly Bill Tracker provides a status report on all bills the Chamber is lob bying on and the Chamber Advocate email summarizes activity from the halls of the Capitol building each week. More information on all of these avenues is available at siouxfalls.com.
2022 Sioux Falls Champion
2022 Sioux Falls Supporter
Newly elected legislator NEW
Following each legislative session, the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce issues a Legislative Scorecard reporting how local legislators voted on issues of importance to the business community. Legislators who cast votes matching the Chamber’s position 100% of the time are recognized as Sioux Falls Champions. Those voting with the Chamber more than 80% of the time are recognized as Sioux Falls Supporters. You can view the full scorecard from the previous legislative session at siouxfallschamber.com.
District 6 District 2
Sen. Steve Kolbeck
Republican 713 S. 5th Ave. Brandon, SD 57005 (605) 359-3078 stevekolbeckforsenate@gmail.com
Term: 1st
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
My top priority would honestly be to find my desk. As I’ve said from the beginning, I really don’t have an agenda or an ax to grind on any issue in particular; I just want to make good policies for South Dakota and help my district continue to grow. Hopefully, and selfishly, that translates to keeping the next generation, including my kids and future grandkids, in the Sioux Falls area.
Rep. David Kull
Republican 408 N. Sunday Drive Brandon, SD 57005 (605) 261-9185 dwkull521@gmail.com
Term: 1st
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
My main priority during my first session is to learn the process and do no harm. Areas of interest for me will be impacts on local governments and also criminal justice issues.
Sen. Herman Otten
Republican 27543 468th Ave. Lennox, SD 57039 (605) 941-1770 herman.otten@sdlegislature.gov Term: 2nd
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
I don’t come into session with a top priority but I will be working with leadership and the governor’s office to iron out the wrinkles for the housing infrastructure funding. We need to get that straightened out and let those funds loose so they can start working.
Rep. Aaron Aylward
Republican 609 Kent St. Harrisburg, SD 57032 (605) 203-1061 aaron.aylward@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 2nd
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2022 Legislative Session?
Since we’ve seen increases in product costs, due to more money in circulation, worker shortages and high levels of inflation, I’ll look to help lower the taxes and government spending within our state. Overall, I’d like to lighten the burden for small business owners and consumers.
Rep. John Sjaarda
Republican 115 Lynx St. Valley Springs, SD 57068 (605) 321-4073 sjaardaforsd@gmail.com
Term: 1st
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session? Legislator did not respond.
Rep. Ernie Otten
Republican 46787 273rd St. Tea, SD 57064 (605) 368-5716 ernie.otten@gmail.com
Term: 2nd
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session? Legislator did not respond.
District 10 District 9
Sen. Brent Hoffman
Republican
2608 N. Career Ave., Apt 213
Sioux Falls SD 57107 (605) 215-7014
brhoffmanstatesenate@gmail.com
Term: 1st
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session? Legislator did not respond.
Sen. Liz Larson
Democrat
401 E. 8th St., Suite 214 - 3069 Sioux Falls, SD 57103 (605) 310-3317 liz@lizforsdsenate.com
Term: 1st
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
Like the voters in District 10, my top priorities will be ensuring that students continue to have access to quality education, working families have access to health care, and that our government embraces integrity, common sense and kindness in the dialogues and actions that take place in Pierre.
Rep. Bethany Soye
Republican
P.O. Box 84124
Sioux Falls, SD 57118 (605) 610-8467 bethany.soye@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 2nd
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
My top priority is to serve my constituents and uphold the Constitution.
Rep. Erin Healy
Democrat
911 S. 2nd Ave.
Sioux Falls, SD 57104 (605) 212-9597 erin.healy@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 3rd
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
I prioritize legislation that solves our state’s problems and improves the quality of life for all South Dakotans. In 2022, I’ll continue to focus on access to mental health, affordable healthcare, investing in early childhood education and child care, and creating a more equitable environment for people with disabilities.
Rep. Kenneth Teunissen
Republican
7908 W. Alexandra St.
Sioux Falls, SD 57106
(605) 310-6458
purpleheartone2@gmail.com
Term: 1st
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
I would like first to see what all is on the agenda.
Rep. Kameron Nelson
Democrat
221 W. 23rd St.
Sioux Falls, SD 57105 (605) 496-9655
kamnelsonSD@gmail.com
Term: 1st
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
My top priority is driven by the voters. South Dakotans want elected officials to work together to bring commonsense legislation that doesn’t interfere with personal freedoms and supports people in living their best lives. Access to healthcare, better funding for schools, workforce improvements, and affordable housing are among those priorities.
District 12 District 11
Sen. Jim Stalzer
Republican
5909 W. Bristol Drive Sioux Falls, SD 57106 (605) 366-5874 jim.stalzer@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 4th
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
Workforce development and occupational licensing reform.
Sen. Arch Beal
Republican
4001 W. 74th St. Sioux Falls, SD 57108 (605) 336-3034 arch.beal@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 1st (crossover)
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session? Legislator did not respond.
Rep. Chris Karr
Republican
7412 W. Luke Drive
Sioux Falls, SD 57106 (605) 695-0391 chris.karr@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 4th
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session? Legislator did not respond.
Rep. Brian Mulder
Republican
2200 S. Oxford Ave.
Sioux Falls, SD 57106 (605) 610-6274 mulder4sd11@gmail.com
Term: 1st
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
This being my first legislative session, my top priority is to be a voice for vulnerable people across our state. I hope to represent non-profit service providers in the fields of mental health and intellectual disabilities to provide practical solutions to remove barriers for people who need those types of services.
Rep. Greg Jamison
Republican
6300 S. Grand Prairie Drive
Sioux Falls, SD 57108 (605) 310-1930 greg.jamison@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 3rd
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
Presumptive probation, parole and new prisons should be tackled in this session. We need to stop the revolving door of dangerous felons and fund the development of new prisons. I will be proposing changes to the Presumptive Probation program to help stop felons from returning to the street only to offend again. Plus, I will offer and support proposals to fund our prisons to fix the overcrowding issues along with the needed modernization of our correction system.
Rep. Amber Arlint
Republican
8605 S. Regent Park Drive
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
(605) 670-0626
amberarlintsd@gmail.com
Term: 1st
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
I want to do everything I can to make South Dakota a great place to live, work and grow a family. I love South Dakota and will support bills that make our state an even better place for its residents.
District 14 District 13
Sen. Jack Kolbeck
Republican
1124 E. Plum Creek Road
Sioux Falls, SD 57105 (605) 332-6490 jack.kolbeck@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 4th
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
To maintain a balanced budget for the State of South Dakota and lower the sales tax and property taxes. I will be very involved in the Appropriations with the extra revenue collected thru sales tax last fiscal year. Since I am on Appropriations, I want to be sure this money is allocated correctly and used for the purposes it is intended. I will work hard for the people to secure some of these funds for our region in and around Sioux Falls.
Rep. Sue Peterson
Republican
6405 S. Killarney Circle
Sioux Falls, SD 57108 (605) 371-1668 sue.peterson@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 4th
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
One of my main priorities for the 2023 legislative session is to fix the workforce housing bill that was passed last session.
Sen. Larry P. Zikmund
Republican
2405 E. 52nd St.
Sioux Falls, SD 57103 (605) 373-0975 lzikmund@sio.midco.net
Term: 2nd
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
Priority issues, which have also been summer task forces, will be ag land assessment, property tax structure and tax burden, juvenile justice, regional jails and state correctional plans, the Incarceration Construction Fund, funding for the remainder of the road around the State Veterans Cemetery up to Renner Road, and the budget.
Rep. Tony Venhuizen
Republican
119 W. Carmel Lane
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
(605) 695-0777
tonyvenhuizen@gmail.com
Term: 1st
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
Protecting our business climate and keeping SD the bestrun state in America. I am very committed to conservative budgeting and to the responsible use of taxpayer dollars, and these unpredictable economic times make that very challenging.
Rep. Taylor Rehfeldt
Republican
2525 E. Old Orchard Trail
Sioux Falls, SD 57103 (605) 391-4378 taylor.rehfeldt@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 2nd
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
The bills and topics I address are a result of the feedback and suggestions of my constituents. As a RN, I am a resource for bills that impact health. I am currently working on bills surrounding opioid abuse, mental health, suicide prevention, cannabis, and healthcare licensure.
As an educator and mom of young children, I spend time invested in policy with a positive impact on children and education. I am currently working on issues surrounding daycare, prevention of childhood abuse/trauma, and juvenile justice.
Rep. Tyler Tordsen
Republican
4705 E. Tiger Lilly St.
Sioux Falls, SD 57110 (605) 610-8884
tyler@tylertordsen.com
Term: 1st
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
My priority for the 2023 legislative session is to help balance our state budget, support good bills and help kill bad ones. In addition, I intend to focus on education priorities at the K-12 and higher education level, including teacher recruitment and retention along with an emphasis on child food insecurity.
District 16 District 15
Sen. Reynold F. Nesiba
Democrat
802 S. Willow Ave. Sioux Falls, SD 57104 (605) 371-6311
reynold.nesiba@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 4th
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
Legislator did not respond.
Rep. Linda Duba
Democrat
421 N. Phillips Ave., Apt. 309
Sioux Falls, SD 57104 (605) 610-6590 linda.duba@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 3rd
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
I’ll be focused on delivering a realistic budget that addresses the state’s needs: education funding, state employee salaries, CSP/Nursing home needs, Medicaid expansion, juvenile justice supports, mental health services, and prison funding…just to name a few.
Sen. Jim Bolin
Republican
403 W. 11th St. Canton, SD 57013 (605) 261-9669 jwbolin@gmail.com
Term: 4th
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
My top priority is the budget and meeting the basic obligations of the state for this year and in the future. We will not always be flush with money so we must be cautious in spending if we are to avoid a fiscal trainwreck in the future.
Rep. Kadyn Wittman
Democrat
317 S. Phillips Ave., Apt. 201 Sioux Falls, SD 57104
(605) 215-1617
elect@wittmanforhouse.org
Term: 1st
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
My top priority during the 2023 legislative session will be to build relationships with other legislators and champion policies that support the most vulnerable community members in our state. I also hope to pass legislation that would provide free State IDs for South Dakotans living below the poverty line.
Rep. Kevin Jensen
Republican
27808 484th Ave. Canton, SD 57013 (605) 336-6947 kevin.jensen@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 3rd
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
Legislator did not respond.
Rep. Karla Lems
Republican
47980 281st St. Canton, SD 57013 (605) 212-6998 karlalems@protonmail.com
Term: 1st
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
My top priority for the 2023 legislative session is two-fold: election integrity and eminent domain. Both of these are non-partisan issues that affect South Dakotans. As a legislator, I understand the authority given to me comes from the SD Constitution. I will strive to defend the foundational freedoms of this country and state while representing my constituents in District 16.
District 25
Sen. Tom Pischke
Republican
503 E. 12th St.
Dell Rapids, SD 57022 (605) 999-2948 tom.pischke@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 1st (crossover)
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
The people of South Dakota have been overtaxed for the past 2 years. We need to figure out where to cut taxes and start returning this money back to the people.
Engage in public policy
Make your voice heard and dive into the issues and policies being considered at the state level. Take advantage of these opportunities to interact with your local legislators.
GOOD MORNING SIOUX FALLS
LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST
Rep. Randy Gross
Republican
48006 221st St. Elkton, SD 57026 (509) 280-2593 randy.gross@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 3rd
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
My top priorities are the things I stand for – families first, low taxes, responsible spending, quality education, 2nd Amendment rights and respect for life.
Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023 7–8:30 a.m. Hear from Sioux Falls area legislators about their goals for the 2023 legislative session.
LEGISLATIVE COFFEES
Saturday, Feb. 4, 2023 Saturday, Feb. 11, 2023 Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023 10–11:45 a.m.
Legislative Coffees are moderated conversations with local legislators. The Coffees are free and open to the public.
SIOUX FALLS DAY AT THE LEGISLATURE
Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023
Rep. Jon Hansen
Republican
47484 Dells Drive Dell Rapids, SD 57022 (605) 610-8063 jon.hansen@sdlegislature.gov
Term: 3rd
What is your top priority for the upcoming 2023 Legislative Session?
Legislator did not respond.
Join other chamber members for a day long bus trip to Pierre to see the state legislature in action.
The details for these events and a link to reserve your tickets can be found at siouxfallschamber.com.
What's next for Medicaid expansion?
As South Dakota welcomes the fine winter weather, there are 105 legislators along with dozens of industry lobbyists preparing for the annual January pilgrimage to the state capital. This group (whom I fondly refer to as policy wonks) will be working diligently to ensure key concerns are addressed for all South Dakotans. The basic key legislative issues include:
1. Helping those who can’t help themselves
2. Ensuring South Dakota has well-maintained infrastructure (roads, bridges, sewers, etc.)
3. Ensuring public safety (law enforcement, health policy, etc.)
4. Providing an education for our K-12 population.
Medicaid expansion advocates in Pierre will be keeping an eye on what the legislature does...
The work would appear to be straightforward and somewhat easy to reach an agreement. However, this is rarely the case. Permit me to provide an example relating to the recent voterapproved ballot measure on Constitutional Amendment D (CA-D). Clearly points 1. and 3. above relate to CA-D, which will expand the state Medicaid program. Medicaid meets the criteria of bullet one and aligns with bullet three (health policy).
When South Dakotans voted to expand the Medicaid program by passing CA-D (56%/44%), they chose to expand access to healthcare for those who cannot afford insurance and do not work for an employer who offers that benefit. Medicaid is a federal and state funded program to provide health coverage for people who meet certain eligibility requirements. South Dakota’s current Medicaid program primarily covers children, low-income pregnant women, parents and other caretakers’ relatives, seniors in nursing homes, and individuals with physical or developmental disabilities. CA-D expanded the Medicaid program to cover adults ages 18-64, up to 138% of the Federal poverty level – about $38,295 for a family of four and $18,754 for childless, non-disabled adults starting on July 1, 2023.
Keep in mind both the current Medicaid program and the expansion of the Medicaid program provides healthcare coverage – not cash payments – to individuals who are eligible for care.
There will be differing opinions in Pierre about Medicaid expansion. You may recall the legis lature's recent resistance to voter approved ballot measures. Moreover, the legislature has resisted all legislative efforts to expand the Medicaid program. Given this history, Medicaid expansion advocates in Pierre will be keeping an eye on what the legislature does with the “new” federal dol lars to cover new enrollees (see total general fund savings in chart on next page).
A key component to understanding the fiscal windfall to South Dakota for passing CA-D is provided by the Legislative Research Council (LRC). The first two years of Medicaid expan sion will provide a windfall of more than $60 million each year, depending on the number of new enrollees. In addition, South Dakota benefits from federal incentives for current Medicaid programs when late-state adopters, such as South Dakota, expand Medicaid. The inflow of these dollars may be difficult to track but are key to ensure South Dakotans have access to health care with the passage of CA-D.
The LRC fiscal analysis provides the first five years under current federal law, the state’s share of expenses could be $166,244,000, with the state recognizing additional general fund savings of $162,473,000. A breakout by year for the proposed Medicaid expansion is below, based on the current Medicaid budget.
With an eye on “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” Senator Wayne Steinhauer sponsored a bill (SB 102) in the 2022 legislative session to establish a Medicaid expansion fund to hold those “expansion” dollars for Medicaid expenses. SB 102 passed the Senate but died in House Appropriations. The Chamber supported SB 102. Efforts to revive the language of SB 102 for the upcoming session are underway.
In addition, the S.D. Department of Social Services will need to amend the state Medicaid plan to incorporate CA-D and submit the plan to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for review and approval by March 1, 2023. Keeping an eye on the amend ments to the plan will also be on the radar of those supporting CA-D.
Total
Year 1 42,500 $297,042,000 $32,565,000 $63,572,000 Year 2 43,000 $300,013,000 $32,904,000 $64,899,000 Year 3 43,400 $303,013,000 $33,245,000 $11,334,000 Year 4 43,800 $306,043,000 $33,590,000 $11,334,000 Year 5 44,300 $309,103,000 $33,939,000 $11,334,000 Totals $1,515,214,000 $166,244,000 $162,473,000
Source: Legislative Research Council
The Legislature begins in January. In the meantime, Governor Noem’s budget address in early December will provide us with her administration’s efforts to honor the voters’ desire to expand Medicaid. The December 6 address will provide additional insight to the administration’s planning efforts to expand Medicaid.
Note: The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce supported CA-D. If you would like to understand why the Chamber supported CA-D please see our Issue Brief at ssiouxfallschamber.com/advocacy/chambers-position/
View committee meetings, observe session and join us for a luncheon in the Capitol rotunda. Visit with your elected officials to talk about issues important to you.
Pricing includes: Ride the bus and attend lunch, $60; Provide own transportation, lunch is $30.
For more information or to sponsor this event, contact Teresa: (605) 373-2050 or tschreier@siouxfalls.com.
Policy Statements guide Chamber’s advocacy work
The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce effectively advocates for business at all levels of government. Our team regularly attends local government meetings, along with having “boots-on-theground” in Pierre during the legislative session. At the federal level, the Chamber is the convener of conversations between our members and our congressional delegation.
A key component to our success is member engagement. The point is so important, it bears repeating: member engagement is the secret sauce of the Chamber’s success in advocacy. The Issues Management Council (IMC) bears the responsibility of making recommendations to the Board of Directors on a myriad of public policy issues. IMC’s 45 members include every committee chair, the Board’s Executive Committee and at-large members. The Council meets monthly and provides careful review of public policies, including analyzing the impact on our business community. A recent example is the presentations on the three ballot questions that Sioux Falls voters faced on Election Day. The effort is challenging, but IMC members are thoughtful and committed to their work.
Each year, IMC reviews the Chamber’s policy statements. This document is foundational to our advocacy efforts and guides our work throughout the year. The policy statements represent a set of core beliefs rather than specific actions or initiatives. As such, policy statements tend not to change dramatically from year to year. Instead, they are edited for context – outdated sections may be removed or new sections may be added if necessary.
As they stand today, the Chamber’s policy statements include the following section titles: Quality of Life; Taxation; Development Incentives; Business Climate; Education; Infrastructure; Environment; Government; Tourism/Visitor Industry; Workforce Development; Workforce Housing; Agriculture; Diversity and Inclusivity; Business Development; and Healthcare.This year saw no major changes to the policy statements, and last month the Board of Directors approved the recommendations from IMC. The policy statements are key to the Chamber’s advocacy efforts at all levels of government.
The complete policy statements can be found on the Chamber's website at siouxfallschamber.com/advocacy.
Thirty-three first-time legislators elected to serve
By Justin BentaasChanges are coming to state capitols across the country and South Dakota will be no different. A combination of retirements, term limits, redistricting changes and primary defeats has led to a significant amount of turnover in our State Legislature. South Dakota will swear in 33 first-time legislators in 2023, which amounts to nearly one-third of the seats. Sioux Falls alone will be represented by 14 first-time legislators. Other than welcoming rookie legislators to Pierre, the demographic composition of the legislature won’t change significantly.
The 2022 general election saw 60% of registered voters participate, marking the lowest voter turnout since 2014. Thirty-one Republicans and four Democrats were elected to the Senate – a gain of one seat for the Democrats. Though they lost a seat, Republicans will still enjoy a supermajority in the Senate. On the other side of the hall, House Republicans picked up one seat with 63 Republicans and 7 Democrats winning election to the House. Overall, the legislature will be comprised of 94 Republicans and 11 Democrats – the same ratio as the past two years.
In addition, South Dakota maintained its ratio of male to female legislators. Thirty women were elected to the legislature in 2022, (8 in the Senate and 22 in the House), a number that matches the results of 2020.
Composition of the SD Legislature
Total
• 94 Republicans, 11 Democrats
• 75 men, 30 women
• 33 first-time legislators
• 63 re-elected to currently held seat
• 7 crossover to seat in opposite chamber
• 2 return to office after a break from serving
Operation Thank You returns Volunteers needed
A popular one-day volunteer event will return in January, after a several year hiatus. The 28th annual Operation Thank You event will take place on Thursday, January 19, 2023. Led by the members of the Chamber’s Diplomat Committee, approximately 250 vol unteers will visit Chamber member businesses and deliver a membership decal.
“The Operation Thank You event has been such a great event for the Chamber for 27 consecutive years. We took a pause from it over the past few years, but we’re back and excited to continue this tradition,” said Event Chair Christy Menning, McCrossan Boys Ranch. “This is a great opportunity for volunteers to meet Chamber members in their place of business and learn more about what they do. Personally calling on each local member is a chance for us to show our appreciation to them for being part of the Chamber family.”
Volunteers will start the day at a kick-off breakfast, where they will receive their assignments and materials. Teams of 5-6 people will work together to visit all their assigned member businesses over the course
28th Annual Operation Thank You Thursday, January 19
Holiday Inn City Centre
7:30 a.m. – Kick-Off Breakfast 4:30 a.m. – Wrap-Up Event
of the day. Volunteers will regroup at 4:30 p.m. for a wrap celebration, including door prizes.
As part of Operation Thank You, each member will receive the 2023 Chamber member decal, a thank you note from Chamber lead ership, and an invitation to participate in a member feedback survey.
Menning stated, “We encourage member businesses to proudly display the decal on their entry doors to let everyone know they are committed to the success of our community and are part of the uni fied voice in creating the best environment to live, work & grow.”
It takes many members working together to make Operation Thank You happen. If you would like to participate – by volunteering, donating a door prize, or as a business sponsor – please contact please contact Pat Lund (605) 336-1620 or plund@siouxfalls.com.
The Coverage You Want. The Commitment You Need.
We all need insurance to protect our homes and businesses. You also need the support of professionals who stand by your side— sweating the small stuff so you don’t have to.
Fischer, Rounds & Associates combines the coverage you want with the commitment you need. That’s at Your Service. At Your Side.
Call Us in Sioux Falls Phone: 605-336-4444 Toll Free: 877-789-3773
Business | Home | Health | Life Offices also in Mitchell, Pierre, Watertown and Rapid City
2300 W. 49th St. Sioux Falls, SD 57105 FischerRounds.com
Offices also in Mitchell, Pierre, Watertown and Rapid City
Ribbon Cuttings
The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce offers a ribbon cutting ceremony or member spotlight video for members to celebrate joining the Chamber, milestone anniversaries, expansions or remodels. 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.
All About Travel, Inc.
3801 S. Western Ave., Suite 103 allabouttravel.org
All About Travel, Inc. celebrated 25 years in business serving Sioux Falls and neighboring communities with travel services. L to R: Rosa Hadrick, Sandy Case, Jennifer Hoesing, Lorie Buus, Karen Schroedermeier (founder), Jodi Swensen, Jeff Griffin, Mark Ryken and Megan Jansick.
Children’s Home Society Shelter for Family Safety
113 N. St. Paul Ave. chssd.org/shelter
Children’s Home Society Shelter for Family Safety, formerly Children's Inn, serves victims of abuse. They doubled the size of their previous building and are now located on the Empower Campus. L to R: Rick Weber, Craig Lloyd, Lisa Riddle, Jennifer Hoesing, T. Denny Sanford, Karlie Solum, Michelle Lavallee, Rich Merkouris, Jon Mammenga, Stacey McMahan, Anna Jankord, Karl Jegeris, Kristin Hoefert-Redlinger, Kobi Ringling, Derrick Larson and Amy Carter.
Cultivated
in Love
524 N. Main Ave., Suite 104 cultivatedinlove.com
Cultivated in Love is focused on elevating any event with custom, uniquely curated grazing tables, charcuterie boards, corporate gifting and classes. L to R: Eiley Schweigert, Akwa Ambali, Ally Brandner, Sheila Hoff, Landi Schweigert (owner), Jennifer Hoesing and Kiyan Schweigert.
Enterprise Truck Rental
5300 N. 7th Ave.
Enterprise Truck Rental provides commercial and retail box truck, pickup truck and cargo van rentals for South Dakota. L to R: Kerrigan Cornwell, Sheila Hoff, Arthur Schultz, Jeff Griffin, Autumn Steichen (truck rental manager for South Dakota territory), Lucas Fiegen, Adam Buss and Brady Lambert.
NEW LOCATION
GreatLife Cares Foundation Tennis Complex
100 W. Twin Oaks Rd. siouxfalls.org/park
The City of Sioux Falls celebrated the opening of the newly constructed GreatLife Cares Foundation Tennis Complex at Tomar Park. L to R: Josh Johnson, Don Kearney, Mike Begeman, Jason Herrboldt, Alex Jensen, Tom Walsh Sr., Lydia Healy, Tammy Beintema, Lynda Billars and Mike Patten.
JD’s House of Trophies
601 N. Kiwanis Ave. jdshouseoftrophies.com
JD’s House of Trophies is under new ownership. They have expanded the business both in store and online. L to R: Austin Blumer, BJ Dvorak, David Dvorak, Jennifer Hoesing, Kellee Blumer, Amanda Vant Hul, Nick Blumer (owner), Carol Woltjer, Teisha Lynch, Kristin Hoefert-Redlinger, April Meyerink and Mark Upward.
NEW OWNER
Ribbon Cuttings
Midco Customer Experience Center
905 S. Highline Place
midco.com
Midco opened a new Midco Customer Experience Center at Dawley Farm Village. They are proud to be celebrating 70 years of partnership with the Greater Sioux Falls community. L to R: Eric Dietrich, Tammy Beintema, Erin Ostler, Jason Herrboldt, Tom McAdaragh (president and COO), Lynda Billars and Cory Lichty.
NEW LOCATION
PaychexHR
paychex.com
PaychexHR works alongside small and medium sized businesses and organizations to help them attract and retain talent through their HR solutions. L to R: Brian Sittig, Anna Jankord, Nichelle Lund, Andrew Erdman (strategic business consultant), Jay Soukup and Jennifer Hoesing.
NEW MEMBER
NEW MEMBER
Payroll Vault
108 N. Main Ave., Hartford, SD payrollvault.com
Payroll Vault is a local payroll and workforce management solution company. L to R: Stacey Sieverding, Jay Soukup, Jeremy Johnson, Arden Jones, Paula Johnson (owner), Callie Tuschen, Mark Johnson, Christy Menning and Amy Meert Farr.
NEW MEMBER
Platinum Imagination Hair & Makeup
524 N. Main Ave., Suite 102 platinumimagination.com
Platinum Imagination Hair & Makeup provides professional hair and makeup services for bridal, tv/video, professional headshots, editorials and other events. L to R: Bethany Buitenbos, Ally Brander, Angelique Verver (owner), Jennifer Hoesing and Sheila Hoff.
Ribbon Cuttings
Serendipitous Events
524 N. Main Ave., Suite 104 siouxfallseventplanning.com
Serendipitous Events is an event planning business focusing on all things worth celebrating, such as weddings, corporate events and private events. L to R: Casey Boerger, Sara Waldner, Audra Stoebner, Loghin Welch (co-owner), Ally Brandner, Sheila Hoff, Jessica Ligtenberg (co-owner), Jennifer Hoesing, Rebecca Carlyle and Anna Moe.
South Dakota Biotech Association
110 S. Phillips Ave. Suite 304 sdbio.org
South Dakota Biotech Association celebrated their new location at the First Financial Center in downtown Sioux Falls. L to R: Lynda Billars, Steve Statz, Daniel Engebretson, Mark Stowers, Kayla Eitreim, Eddie Sullivan (president/CEO), Blake Chesley, Joni Ekstrum (executive director), Kara McCormick, Ashley Podhradsky, Shannon Van Buskirk and Mel Ustad.
NEW LOCATION
Sunbelt Business Advisors of South Dakota
101 S. Phillips Ave., Suite 205 sunbeltsd.com
Sunbelt helps business owners sell, buy and grow businesses through acquisition. L to R: Kevin Szozda, Karlie Solum, Mayor Paul TenHaken, Jill TenHaken, Brian Slipka (CEO), Chris Jones (president), Nathan Stallinga, April Meyerink, Dustin Bonn and Matt Schroder.
NEW MEMBER
NEW MEMBER NEW MEMBER
Veza
330 S. Phillips Ave. vezastyle.com
Veza, formerly known as TH Grey Boutique, is under new ownership. Veza carries sustainable, locally-sourced and philanthropic fashions for women. L to R: Lynda Billars, Dan Stachel, Ondrea Stachel (owner), Kayla Eitreim, Nicole Garber and Anna Jankord.
Volunteers of America, Dakotas
47185 Wild Clover Circle voa-dakotas.org
Volunteers of America, Dakotas launched a new retail donation/redistribution program called GreaterGoods. L to R: Kari Johnson, Lynda Billars, Dennis Hoffman (president and CEO), Sarah Hanson, Julie Nelson, Tamien Dysart and Rachel Huber.
NEW MEMBER
Wholestone Farms
3001 N. Bahnson Ave. wholestonefarms.com
Wholestone Farms is proud to join the Sioux Falls community with the opening of The Butcher Shop. L to R: Andrew Curley, Luke Minion, Scott Webb, Scott Lawrence, Seth Spronk, Pat VonTersch, Chris Venteicher, Jay Soukup, Randy Spronk and Karlie Solum.
Wings Gymnastics Academy
2556 S. Lorraine Place wingsgym.com
Wings Gymnastics Academy has added a second location at Lake Lorraine to serve the west side of Sioux Falls. L to R: James Gaspar, Matt Reiners, Alicia Reiners (owner), Lynda Billars, Cindi Johnson, Jason Herrboldt and Wyeth Lynch.
NEW LOCATION
Membership Member Anniversaries
Congratulations to the following members who are celebrating their milestone membership anniversaries this month. They are part of a continued commitment to our community through their investment in the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. To learn more about Chamber membership, contact (605) 336-1620 or gsfcc@siouxfalls.com. Find a complete Membership Directory online at siouxfallschamber.com.
Founding Member
Josten Concrete Products Co., Inc. Concrete Member since 1918
55 Years
Overhead Door Company of Sioux Falls, Inc. Garage Doors overheaddoorsd.com
45 Years
Brooks Construction Services, Inc. Contractors brooksconcreteservices.com
SCHEELS
Specialty Retail scheels.com
35
Years
Good Samaritan SocietyCommunities of Sioux Falls Nursing Home, Assisted & Independent Living good-sam.com
Signature Flight Support Air Transportion & Services signatureflight.com/locations/FSD
30
Years
Bluestem Capital Company, LLC Financial Planning bluestemcapital.com
Larson Truck Sales, Inc. Truck/Trailer Sales & Service larsontrucks.com
25 Years
Sioux Falls People for Youth/ Fastpitch Softball Associate Member
University of South Dakota Foundation and Alumni Associate Member usd.edu/foundation
20 Years
Bluepeak Telecommunications mybluepeak.com
Salvation Army Associate Member sasiouxfalls.org
15 Years
Huron Chamber & Visitors Bureau Associate Member huronsd.com
Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Associate Member oslchurch.com
5 Years
Hegg Realtors - Marcus Walgrave Affiliate-Real Estate marcuswalgrave.com
Woods Roofing Pest Control nicebats.com
First Year Reinvestors
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Sioux Falls Real Estate Real Estate-Residential bhhs.com
Harvester Kitchen by Bryan Restaurants harvesterkitchensf.com
Hope Harbor Associate Member hopeharbormn.org
Jane Rae Events Event Planning janeraeevents.com
Richard E. (Dick) Brown Associate Member
The Parkwood Nursing Home, Assisted & Independent Living parkwoodlife.com
New Members
CFO Systems LLC
Business Consulting
Michael Draper, (402) 598-7150 10832 Old Mill Road, Omaha, NE 68154 cfosystemsllc.com
County-Wide Protection Security Dispatch Carrier Agency LLC
Security
Sonny Taylor, (605) 332-5172
Freedom Mobile Detailing
Auto Wash & Detailing
Alex Peters, (720) 827-3974 408 N. Main Ave., Hartford, SD 57033 freedommobiledetailing.com
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 Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. An online Membership Directory can be found at siouxfallschamber.com. Want to become a member? Call (605) 336-1620.
Kidz Academy
Childcare
Amy Stockberger, (605) 332-5002 1600 S. Sycamnore Ave., 57110 kidzacademysiouxfalls.com
Northwestern Mutual – Shianne Teas Affiliate–Insurance
Shianne Teas, (218) 203-7983 2307 W. 57th St., Suite 200, 57108 northwesternmutual.com/financial/advisor/shianne-t
Platinum Imagination Hair & Makeup
Salons & Spas
Angelique Verver, (605) 321-5351 524 N. Main Ave., 57104 platinumimagination.com
River Valley Retreat
Lodging–Vacation Home Rental
Pamela Hoffman, (605) 310-2221 47291 Renberg St., Renner, SD 57055 rivervalleyretreatsd.com
Roam Kitchen & Bar Restaurants
Dustin Phellps, (605) 215-0020 4525 W. Empire Place, 57106 roamkitchen.com
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 Cindi Johnson
Cindi Johnson grew up in the hotel/restaurant business – her family owned a facility with seven hotel rooms, a banquet room and restaurant. After decades working in sales and owning a business, she says her career has come full circle as she is now the group sales manager for Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort.
Cindi J (as she is called by friends) her husband, Kent, have two daughters, one son-in-law and two grandchildren. They will celebrate 50 years of marriage in December 2022 – and will proudly tell you the story of how they rode snowmobiles through a blizzard to their own wedding.
Why do you choose to volunteer your time for the Chamber?
The chamber gives us all the opportunity to use our relationships to grow and connect. I love people and connecting with them at all ages and stages of their careers. I have been able to learn and grow, both personally and professionally, through my involvement with the Chamber.
What is your favorite way to spend a winter day in Sioux Falls?
Visit chambernews.com for more questions with Cindi
Sioux Falls offers some of the most gorgeous views of winter! From the lights at Falls Park, to the many wonderful shows at the Pavilion, and of course, at Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort! However, nothing fills my heart more than being at home with a good book, chocolate chip cookies in the oven and chicken noodle soup in the slow cooker with my family surrounding me and a good glass of wine to end my day.
If you could only keep five material possessions, what would they be?
1. My house – it gives me a space to gather my family and friends.
2. My car – it gives me freedom to go anywhere, just watch out for my crazy parking!
3. My books – they give me a calm place to escape to when I need a break.
4. My Grand Falls Player Access Card – you didn’t think I’d miss an opportunity to put a plug in, did you?
5. My favorite pen – I’m always ready to sign up a new Chamber member, let’s talk about how the Chamber is right for you!
If you could witness any event of the past, present, or future, what would it be?
I would like to see what our beautiful city will look like 50 years from now. I love our city and love that it continues to grow. The ripple effect all the new businesses have had to grow the town into a city amazes me every day!
We like to Keep the Cheer Here by shopping locally… What are a couple of your favorite local retailers?
Two of my favorite local boutiques are Lauriebelle’s and Veza (formerly TH Grey).
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