January 2015 Chamber News magazine

Chamber News January 2015

Vol. 50, No. 4

A PUBLICATION OF THE SIOUX FALLS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

IN THIS ISSUE COVER STORY

Agri-Business Citizen, Farm Family honored

...................................................... 22-27

Chamber News PUBLISHER

FEATURES

2015 Chamber Policy/Platform Statements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-31 Scholarship program to address workforce needs . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 IN EVERY ISSUE: Message from the Chair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Events Calendars. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11 Economic Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Noteworthy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Faces & Places. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-21 Business Advocacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-31 Headlines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Community Appeals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Convention & Visitors Bureau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Chamber Partner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Using Your Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Member’s Voice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Business News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39-40 Ribbon Cuttings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43-48 New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-51 Membership Anniversaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 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

ON THE COVER The 62nd Sioux Empire Farm Show, sponsored by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, features commercial exhibits, purebred cattle shows and sales and market livestock shows and sales. For more information, go to siouxempirefarmshow.org.

Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

chambernews.com | Chamber News 3

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

Addressing the workforce dilemma Happy New Year! A new year is full of hope and possibility as we reflect on the past and lay the groundwork for an even stronger future. Though if you’re one of the many businesses struggling to find the right employees to expand your business or conduct your daily operations, the new year might not seem so bright. Workforce remains a challenge for many of our Chamber members. I’m encouraged, however, by recent announcements at the state level about the Build Dakota scholarships and additional planning efforts your Chamber is undertaking that we will continue to find ways to address this issue.

DANA DYKHOUSE 2014-15 Chair of the Board

Our state and our community are laying the groundwork for a balanced approach to tackle this challenge.

Later this month, Market Street Services will return to Sioux Falls to assist us in conducting a competitive assessment of our community where it is today and where we were five years ago, as well as comparing Sioux Falls with peer and aspirational communities. Market Street Services was last in Sioux Falls as part of our 2009-10 Future Sioux Falls planning process, which laid out an economic development strategy for our community. A number of strategies included in that blueprint were part of the Forward Sioux Falls 2011-2016 case statement and program.

Workforce is a systemic issue, and our state and our community are laying the groundwork for a balanced approach to tackle this challenge by addressing what we can do now — and looking at what are our future needs might be. In addition to the competitive assessment, and with your help, Market Street will create a workforce analysis for Sioux Falls. They will help us develop a strategic workforce action agenda that will give us the steps we need to take in order to get the job done, including shorter-term attraction and training strategies as well as longer-term educational and training strategies. We want to develop programs to address today’s needs and prepare for tomorrow’s success.

Because 2015 brings us closer to the start of the next Forward Sioux Falls program, Forward Sioux Falls 2016-2021, Market Street Services’ work will dovetail nicely into planning for the next successful phase of our joint venture. You’ll continue to hear more about these efforts in the coming months.

Your Chamber of Commerce is starting off 2015 with a host of activities and events to make a positive impact on our members and the Sioux Falls area. This time of year we conduct our usual popular events — Business Sense Workshops, our annual Good Morning Sioux Falls Legislative Breakfast and the Chamber-sponsored 62nd Annual Sioux Empire Farm Show. These activities represent opportunities for our members — to volunteer, to be educated on a variety of topics, to be engaged in the legislative process and to pay homage to the state’s largest industry, agriculture.

We also head to Pierre to represent the voice of business at the state legislature for the duration of the legislative session. You can read more about all of these activities throughout this issue of the magazine. Your investment in the Chamber is one way to have a voice in how we shape the future of Sioux Falls — thank you.

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 & Donahoe LLP 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 chambernews.com, read the weekly edition of Quickly, or call (605) 336-1620.

You can register and pay for events online at siouxfallschamber.com.

MIXER Sponsored by

COMPLIMENTARY HORS D’OEUVRES & BEVERAGES $5 ADMISSION OR USE YOUR MIXER PASS

RSVP to vwillson@siouxfalls.com or at siouxfallschamber.com

TUESDAYS IN JANUARY, FEBRUARY & MARCH

Betty J. Ordal Conference Center, Chamber of Commerce, 200 N. Phillips Ave. Suite 200 The Business Sense Workshops are sponsored by the Chamber’s Small Business Council. The workshops deliver ongoing business and management training led by talented and engaging Chamber member presenters.

TUESDAY, JAN. 13 Finance for the Non-Finance Managers Send all of your managers to this informative session that will focus on the importance of cashflow, setting goals and an overview of financial statements. Great training for your key employees.

TUESDAY, JAN. 20 Digital Marketing Services Be it analysis or techniques or desktop/smartphone/tablet usage — learn about usage trends and how to track results.

Management Council. Hear from Sioux Falls area legislators about their goals for the upcoming 2015 Legislative Session.

COST: $20, includes breakfast RSVP: plund@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2014

SIOUX EMPIRE FARM SHOW JAN 27-31, 2015

Show! Livestock shows and sales take place throughout the week. Volunteer your time or come out to see the region’s best market and purebred livestock.

MORE INFORMATION: cchristensen@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2016

JANUARY MEMBERSHIP

TUESDAY, JAN. 13, 2015

Best Western PLUS Ramkota Hotel 3200 W. Maple St. Washington/Lincoln/Roosevelt Rooms DETAILS: Sponsored by the Chamber’s Diplomat Committee & Issues

W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds Expo Building, 100 N. Lyon Blvd.

DETAILS: Celebrate agriculture at the 62nd Annual Sioux Empire Farm

FEATURED EVENTS

4:30-6:30 p.m.

Montgomery’s 1725 W. 41st St.

GOOD MORNING SIOUX FALLS LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST WEDNESDAY, JAN. 7, 2015

TUESDAY, JAN. 27 Smile: The Key to Personal & Business Success Let’s look at the present studies on the bottom-line value of attracting and keeping customers, defusing hostile situations and advancing your career.

Watch for more details for Business Sense Workshops on the following dates in February: TUESDAY, FEB. 3 TUESDAY, FEB. 10 TUESDAY, FEB. 17 TUESDAY, FEB. 24

COST: $10 PER WORKSHOP; NEW MEMBERS CAN USE THE VIP PASS AND ATTEND FOR FREE.

MAYOR’S ROUND-UP & SALE OF CHAMPIONS FRIDAY, JAN. 30, 2015

5:30 p.m. social, 6:30 p.m. dinner, followed by the awarding of the $12,000 Supreme Row purse and Sale of Champions Best Western PLUS Ramkota Hotel Exhibit Hall, 3200 W. Maple St. DETAILS: Celebrate the best market livestock from the Sioux Empire

Farm Show, enjoy a steak dinner and network with other Chamber members at this fun auction. A silent auction prior to the dinner will raise funds for a new scholarship for an ag exhibitor. Watch your email for more information about the event.

COST: $45 per person, with reserved tables of eight RSVP: mgutierrez@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2015

SIOUX FALLS AREA LEGISLATIVE COFFEES SATURDAY, FEB. 7, 2015 SATURDAY, FEB. 21, 2015

9-11:45 a.m.

Hilton Garden Inn Downtown, 201 E. 8th St. DETAILS: Featuring legislators in districts 6, 9-15. More information will

follow about the district assignments for each date.

COST: Free

FEBRUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER TUESDAY, FEB. 10, 2015

4:30-6:30 p.m.

The Inn on Westport, 4000 S. Westport Ave. DETAILS: Sponsored by The Inn on Westport COST: $5 (or use your Mixer Pass) RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010

SIOUX FALLS DAY AT THE LEGISLATURE WEDNESDAY, FEB. 18, 2015

Pierre, SD Luncheon: Noon, Ramkota River Centre DETAILS: More details will follow about the day’s agenda and costs to ride the bus to Pierre/attend lunch.

RSVP: mgutierrez@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2015

RSVP to kfoley@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2002 chambernews.com | Chamber News 7

JANUARY-JUNE 2015

MIXERCalendar WE INVITE YOU AND YOUR EMPLOYEES TO ATTEND THESE UPCOMING MEMBERSHIP MIXERS:

TUESDAY

JAN. 13, 2015

SPONSORED BY:

4:30-6:30 p.m.

Montgomery’s, 1725 W. 41st St.

TUESDAY

SPONSORED BY:

FEB. 10, 2015

4:30-6:30 p.m.

The Inn on Westport. 4000 S. Westport Ave. SPONSORED BY:

TUESDAY

MARCH 10, 2015 4:30-6:30 p.m.

El Riad Shrine, 510 S. Phillips Ave.

TUESDAY

SPONSORED BY:

APRIL 14, 2015

4:30-6:30 p.m.

A&B Business Solutions, 1600 N. A Ave.

TUESDAY

SPONSORED BY:

MAY 12, 2015

4:30-6:30 p.m.

Carnaval Brazilian Grill, 2401 S. Carolyn Ave.

TUESDAY

JUNE 9, 2015

SPONSORED BY:

4:30-7 p.m.

Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, 1201 N. West Ave. The June Mixer includes the 14th Annual Business Fair, which features Chamber members displaying information about their businesses.

Reserve your booth today – call Valerie Willson at (605) 373-2010.

COMPLIMENTARY HORS D’OEUVRES • BEVERAGES AVAILABLE • $5 ADMISSION OR USE YOUR MIXER PASS RSVP to vwillson@siouxfalls.com or at siouxfallschamber.com

Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

Young Professionals Network

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 MORNING BUZZ WEDNESDAY, JAN 7, 2015

7:30-8:30 a.m.

Panera Bread, 5117 S. Louise Ave DETAILS: Network with other YPN members

over a cup of coffee. Feel free to bring a friend or co-worker and don’t forget your business cards. Come for the coffee, stay for the conversation!

UPCOMING EVENTS

YPN OFF THE CLOCK/ NEW MEMBER EVENT THURSDAY, JAN 22, 2015

4-7 p.m.

Empire Bowl, 3800 S. Westport Ave. DETAILS: Bring a friend and join us for fun at

Empire Bowl for the January Off The Clock! For $5, you can bowl two games (normally $16).

Don’t feel like bowling? Pizza, finger food, beer and alcohol will be on sale. We’ll also be giving away gift cards at 5:45 p.m., but you must be present to win.

COST: Free to attend, bowling/food/drinks are on your own.

COST: Free to attend, coffee/breakfast on your own.

RESERVATIONS FOR SIX THURSDAY, JAN 29, 2015

A SEAT AT THE TABLE WITH ERIC MCDONALD MONDAY, JAN 12, 2015

Noon-1 p.m.

Chamber of Commerce, Betty J. Ordal Conference Center 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200 DETAILS: Eric McDonald started DocuTAP

shortly after graduating from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa, with bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science and Mathematics.

Prior to founding DocuTAP, McDonald worked as an IT consultant in Phoenix with the intention of attending seminary on nights and weekends. He grew up in Poulsbo, Wash., near Seattle. After falling in love with the Midwest during his college years, McDonald returned to grow DocuTAP in Sioux Falls. He and his wife, Julie, have five children — two adopted from China.

He volunteers for his church and is involved in the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce.

When he’s not working, volunteering, or spending time with his family, you’ll find McDonald in the gym, preparing for military-style races such as the Tough Mudder.

A Seat at the Table allows YPN members access to the insights, wisdom and lessons only experienced leaders can provide.

6-8 p.m.

The Attic, 4601 E. 41st 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.

JAN. 26 - MARCH 6 WEEKLY PRIZES FOR

THOSE WHO RECRUIT

THE MOST MEMBERS! $100 CASH

PRIZES

TO TOP THREE

RECRUITERS FIND THE MEMBERSHIP

COST: $8, includes lunch THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT.

APPLICATION ONLINE AT

SIOUXFALLSYPN.COM

Connect WITH THE

YPN

.com/siouxfallsypn

SEE PAGE 39 IN THIS ISSUE Find us on social media or visit siouxfallsypn.com @siouxfallsypn

OF CHAMBER NEWS

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Sioux Falls Young Professionals Network chambernews.com | Chamber News 9

JANUARY 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 | JANUARY 2015

1-11

Winter Wonderland

3-4

Benson’s Flea Market

4

GonnaGetWedBridal Showcase

9

Frosty Frolics Weekend Kickoff at Falls Park

10

Christmas with the Animals

10

South Dakota Symphony presents Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23

13

Sesame Street Live “Let’s Dance!”

15-16

Anything Goes

15-18

SECT Presents “Avenue Q”

16

Morgan James

16-17

Downtown Winter Crazy Days

16-18

Greater Sioux Falls Outdoor Show

22-25

SECT Presents “Avenue Q”

24

Strauss’ “Don Quixote”

25

Luther College Nordic Choir 2015 Midwest Tour

25

Professional Image Wedding Showcase

27-31

Sioux Empire Farm Show

30

Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions

30

Keigwin + Company

31

Monster X Tour

FEBRUARY 7

Jeans ’n Classics: Shower the People, the Music of James Taylor

7-8

Benson’s Flea Market

7-10

Summit League Basketball Championship

10-11

Mamma Mia!

Artists of the Plains Art Show & Sale

12-15

Sioux Empire Sportsman’s Show

13-15

Winterfest of Wheels

13

Nikki Hill

13-15

SECT Presents “Arsenic and Old Lace”

13-14

Built Ford Tough Professional Bull Riding

17

Alton Brown Live! The Edible Inevitable Tour

14

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

20-22

SECT Presents “Arsenic and Old Lace”

19-21

State “A” Boys Basketball Tournament

21-22

Greater Midwest Toy Show

19-22

SECT Presents “Treasure Island”

22

Church Basement Ladies: The Last Potluck Supper

21

Ag Day at the Washington Pavilion

24-25

Sister Act

24-25

Peter and the Star Catcher

27-28

State “A” Wrestling Tournament

24-26

Central Plains Dairy Expo

28

Wagner’s The Flying Dutchman

26-29

SECT Presents “Treasure Island”

27-29

Lawn & Garden Show

28

South Dakota Symphony presents Holst’s “The Planets”

29

Chris Tomlin

7

Sioux Empire on Tap

7

Decadence in Chocolate

7-8

Benson’s Flea Market

8

The Music of Andrew Lloyd Weber, Stephan Sondheim and more

13-15

MARCH 1

Wagner’s The Flying Dutchman

3 Nickelback 6-8

Sioux Empire Home Show

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

JANUARY-NOVEMBER 2014 2012

7,347 PERMITS

2013

7,682 PERMITS

2014

14,566 PERMITS

NOVEMBER 2014

Source: City of Sioux Falls

Fargo 2.2%

City of Sioux Falls Total Construction Value JANUARY-NOVEMBER 2014

Total Construction Value

Rapid City 2.8%

Non-Residential Construction Value

$600

Minneapolis/ St. Paul 3.2% Rochester 2.7%

Sioux Falls 2.5%

$575

Des Moines 4.0%

Omaha 3.2%

$550 $525 $500 $450

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

$425

Note: figures represent Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA), not just city; rates are not seasonally-adjusted

$400 $375

Agriculture Trends

$350

NOVEMBER 2014

$300

$16

$250

$15

$150 $100 $50

(IN MILLIONS)

$200 $414.1 million $100.1 million

2012

$14

$560.3 million $149.5 million

(PER BUSHEL) U.S.

$14.30 $12.70

SOUTH DAKOTA

$14.20

$13 $568.6 million $76.1 million

2013

SOYBEANS

2014

Source: City of Sioux Falls

$12

$10.10

$10

According to the City of Sioux Falls, 2014 set a record for building permits; next month’s issue will show the year in review.

$9

Sioux Falls Region Housing Overview

$7

NOVEMBER 2014

$12.20

$11

$8

$6

$9.55

CORN

$7.01

(PER BUSHEL) U.S.

$6.82

SOUTH DAKOTA

$4.37

$5

New Listings: 292 Days on the Market Until Sale: 93 Median Sales Price: $165,350 Inventory of Homes for Sale: 1,384 Source: RASE (Realtor Association of the Sioux Empire)

$4

$3.57

$3.97

$3

$3.18

$2 2012

2013

2014

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.

AN OVERVIEW OF THE PORK INDUSTRY WHAT PORK DOES FOR SOUTH DAKOTA: • •

• • • •

•

Provides 7,900 jobs South Dakota is ranked No. 11 in pork production and ranks No. 1 in pigs per sow South Dakota’s 175,000 sows raise over 385,000 hogs per year South Dakota hogs consume 315,000 tons of soybean meal South Dakota hogs consume 52 million bushels of corn South Dakota’s pork industry contributes $520 million annually to the state’s economy South Dakota’s pork industry contributes $17.4 million in business taxes annually

STATE RANKINGS BY HOGS & PIGS INVENTORY (2013) INVENTORY (1,000 HEAD)

PRODUCTION (1,000 POUNDS) LIVE WEIGHT

1. Iowa 2. North Carolina 3. Minnesota 4. Illinois 5. Indiana 6. Nebraska 7. Missouri 8. Ohio 9. Oklahoma 10. Kansas 11. South Dakota

20,500 8,700 8,000 4,650 3,750 3,100 2,850 2,240 2,010 1,770 1,210

10,660,075 4,064,339 3,909,753 2,020,410 1,648,744 1,176,722 1,306,138 1,096,992 1,379,273 901,099 702,313

U.S.

66,025

32,221,975

STATE

The vast majority of hogs and pigs in the U.S. reside in the upper Midwest or Corn Belt states. Since 1990, significant pork production has developed in North Carolina, the Oklahoma-Texas panhandle region and Utah.

TOP 10 PORK PRODUCING COUNTRIES (2013)

TOP 10 MARKETS FOR U.S. PORK EXPORTS (2013)

1. China 2. European Union 3. U.S. 4. Brazil 5. Russia

1. Mexico 2. Japan 3. Canada 4. China/Hong Kong 5. South Korea

6. Vietnam 7. Canada 8. Philippines 9. Japan 10. Mexico

6. Australia 7. Philippines 8. Colombia 9. Honduras 10. Dominican Republic

SMITHFIELD FOODS, PARENT COMPANY OF JOHN MORRELL & CO., IS THE LARGEST PROCESSING COMPANY RANKED BY SLAUGHTER CAPACITY PER PLANT (HEAD PER DAY) AT 119,500 HEAD AS OF SPRING 2014. Smithfield has plants in Sioux Falls, Tar Heel, N.C. (Smithfield); Gwaltney, Va. (Smithfield); Crete, Neb. (Farmland); Denison, Iowa (Farmland); Monmouth, Ill. (Farmland); Milan, Mo. (Premier Standard); and Clinton, N.C. (Lundy’s). John Morrell & Co. processes the second largest number of hogs for Smithfield at 20,500 as of spring 2014.

WORLD MEAT/POULTRY CONSUMPTION SHARES (2011) Pork

37%

Poultry

35%

Beef

23%

Mutton and Goat

5%

WORLD PER CAPITA PORK CONSUMPTION

(BY POUNDS, CARCASS WEIGHT) Montenegro.................98.3 Taiwan........................81.3 China/Hong Kong/ South Korea.................72.2 Macau.........................93.0 Switzerland.................72.2 European Union...........93.2 U.S..............................59.1 Serbia.........................88.0 Norway........................56.1 Belarus.......................84.9

Sources: National Pork Board, South Dakota Pork Producers Council chambernews.com | Chamber News 15

FACES & PLACES

Faces & Places

JACK DYVIG

Sioux Falls Morning Optimist Club

DAREN ANDERSON Big D Technology Solutions, Inc.

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.

GITA HENDRICKS Ground Works-Midwest

Recognition of Chamber Volunteers Jack Dyvig, Sioux Falls Morning Optimist Club, was awarded Diplomat of the Month honors for November. 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 the Reinvestment Award.

The Diplomat Team of the Month for November was: Captain Daren Anderson, Big D Technology Solutions, Inc.; David Johnson, DAKOTACARE; Jim Slater, ServiceMaster of Sioux Falls; Kelly Grovijahn, Homewood Suites by Hilton; and Jessica Nelson, Complete Media.

New Faces & Promotions Carol Woltjer joined Family Visitation Center as the Resource Development and Communications Manager. Prior to this, Woltjer worked in development for Sioux Falls Seminary.

Marco, Inc. announced several promotions. Jonathan Warrey was promoted to chief operating officer. Warrey has more than 18 years of experience in the IT industry. He joined Marco in 1996 as a sales representative and was promoted to regional sales director in 2009 and vice president of sales in 2012.

Steve Gau was promoted to vice president of sales. Gau has more than 17 years of experience in the IT industry. He joined Marco in 1997

as a sales representative and was promoted to sales manager in 2005 and regional sales director in 2009. Fritz Wensel was promoted to senior director of IT sales. Wensel has more than 31 years of experience in the IT industry.

He joined Marco in 2009 as the IT sales and service manager. Trevor Akervik was promoted to senior director of managed services. Akervik has more than 13 years of experience in the IT industry. He joined Marco in 2001 as a sales representative and was promoted to copier sales manager in 2006 and director of managed services in 2009. Kurt Meemken was promoted to manager of software solutions. Meemken has more than 13 years of experience in the IT industry. He joined Marco in 2001 as a

systems engineer and was promoted to software solutions sales manager in 2014. Marco serves customers nationally with offices in Minnesota, Illinois, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

Sydney Bartunek joined Argus Leader Media as the Marketing Coordinator.

Previously, Bartunek worked for the South Dakota Board of Regents as the Academic Affairs Coordinator and more recently worked at Black Inc. Events & Advertising as the Social Media Strategist. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Contemporary Media and Journalism with an emphasis in PR & Advertising from the University of South Dakota.

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.

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FACES & PLACES

Honors & Awards Sioux Falls was recognized in Groups Today’s Readers’ Choice Awards as a national emerging destination along with Charlotte, N.C., Anchorage, Alaska, and Alberta, Canada.

The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) was also noted as one of the top Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) in the Midwest. Other honorable mentions included Explore St. Louis, Missouri; Experience Columbus, Ohio; and Elkhard County CVB, Indiana. Groups Today is a national group travel professionals publication with a circulation of more than 10,000 throughout the U.S. and Canada. Earlier in 2014, readers of Groups Today voted for categories ranging from attractions and shopping to lodging, restaurants and cruise lines. Voting ended in late summer and announcements were made in the November/December 2014 issue of Groups Today. Sioux Falls has been in the spotlight as a relatively inexpensive destination for group travel and a destination easy to travel to.

J&L Harley-Davidson was named second runner-up in the 23rd Annual Dealernews Top 100 Dealer Awards, the powersports industry’s longest-running retail competition.

Dealernews is a leading business information resource for North American powersports retailers, providing dealers with news, analysis, retail trends, exclusive research and new product information. The annual Top 100 list recognizes powersports dealerships for their achievements in customer service, dealership appearance, marketing, e-commerce and community involvement. More than 30 states and two Canadian provinces are represented in this year’s Top 100. J&L was the only dealer honored in South Dakota and has been a Top 100 dealer for 20 years.

The SESHRM Chapter (Sioux Empire Society for Human Resource Management) annually recognizes local Human Resources Professionals with the HR Professional of the Year Award. This prestigious award is to recognize an individual who has made significant contributions to the field of Human Resource Management and represents “the best” in the Human Resources profession. They are strategic business partners, individuals, businesses or organizations who serve as role models for the profession, who are “leaders” rather than “followers”, who set standards for others and the profession and who apply their professional expertise outside of their organizations. The recipient of the 2014 HR

Professional of the Year Award in the Strategic HR Partner Category is the Employment Law Practice Group of Woods, Fuller, Shultz & Smith P.C. The recipient of the 2014 HR Professional of the Year Award in the Emerging HR Professional Category is Candis Kiihl, DakotAbilities. The recipient of the 2014 HR Professional of the Year Award in the Distinguished HR Professional Category is Julie Waage, RAS. Dale Froehlich, Prairie Winds Capital, was the 2014 recipient of the Spirit of Sioux Falls Award given by the Sioux Falls Development Foundation. Froehlich, an active member of the Development Foundation board, was honored for his commitment to Sioux Falls. A local farm boy, Froehlich studied both law and business in Washington, D.C. He brought his talent and skills back to South Dakota, where he was successful with several ventures, including Business Aviation. Today, he is building South Dakota’s economy by encouraging entrepreneurship and helping to create the next generation of vital regional industries. Active in the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Rotary, United Way, the Banquet and a variety of trade and service groups, Froehlich was the 2009 recipient of the Spirit of Enterprise Award from the South Dakota Enterprise Institute and the 2010-11 Service to Mankind Award from The Sertoma Club. Froehlich is currently engaged in an analysis and strategic planning effort to make the Sioux Falls Development Foundation an even stronger force for future economic development.

Credit Collections Bureau named Rose Benson the Client Services Representative of the Month for November 2014.

The award-winning floats at the 23rd Annual Parade of Lights presented by CenturyLink were: CenturyLink Best Use of Lights: First Bank & Trust; Best Workmanship: Frontier Bank; Spirit of Sioux Falls: Carroll Family; Mayor’s Choice: Peck Family; and Downtown Sioux Falls Board Choice: Family Traditions.

Scott Lawrence, Lawrence & Schiller, was recognized as the 2014 Outstanding Philanthropic Volunteer Fundraiser. The award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills in coordinating groups of volunteers for major fund raising projects for non-profit organizations.

Lawrence’s fundraising efforts include Lincoln

High Booster Club, Festival of Bands, Central Baptist Church, South Dakota Symphony, Forward Sioux Falls, Volunteers of America, Dakotas and Sioux Empire United Way. Sioux Falls Seminary presented its second annual Excellence Awards to three employees in honor of their work and dedication to the institution. Dr. Paul Rainbow, Professor of New Testament at Sioux Falls Seminary, received the institution’s 2014 Powell Award for Excellence in Service by Faculty. Rainbow was acknowledged for contributing to a culture of excellence in service to students and the seminary community through scholarly research and thoughtful teaching of the New Testament and by adding a depth of wisdom and a delightful humor to conversations with colleagues and students. Nate Helling, Chief Operating Officer, received the institution’s 2014 Rauschenbusch Award for Excellence in Service by Staff and Administration. He was nominated for his outstanding leadership qualities in the undertaking of numerous roles and for keeping the main focus of the seminary’s work on the well-being of students and God’s Kingdom. Gretchen Hartmann, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Sioux Falls Psychological Services, received Sioux Falls Seminary’s 2014 Zimbelman Award for Excellence in Service through Sioux Falls Psychological Services. Hartmann was recognized for her commitment to quality and high ethical standards of service through her ability to connect with clients, students and peers and for continuing to set an example of excellence for both Sioux Falls Seminary and Sioux Falls Psychological Services.

Insight Marketing Design was recognized for creative excellence by the MarCom Awards, one of the world’s largest creative competitions.

Insight Marketing Design won 11 awards in a range of categories for clients throughout the country, including three Platinum Awards, five Gold Awards and three Honorable Mentions.

MarCom Awards is a creative competition for companies involved in the concept, writing and design of print, visual, audio and web materials and programs. The competition has grown to one of the largest in the world with about 6,000 entries per year. The awards program is administered and judged by the Association of Marketing and Communications Professionals.

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FACES & PLACES

Leadership Society for Human Resource Management (SESHRM) Announces 2015 Board Members: President Garrett Wilson, SPHR, MS, ReliaMax; President-Elect Rachell Henning, PHR, Woods Fuller Shultz & Smith; Past President Justin Rey, SPHR, Heritage Bank; Treasurer Linda Heilman, PHR, SGT, Inc.; Awards & Recognition Cal McKeown, PHR, LifeScape; Certification and Education Coordinator Tammy Loos, PHR, DakotAbilities; Conference Chair Coordinator Kristi Johnson, SPHR, Midcontinent Communications; Marketing Coordinator Candis Kiihl, DakotAbilities; Membership/ Secretary Jessica Ashton, PHR, MBA, Central Farmers Coop; Legislative Maggie Pearson, RMS Roller Grinder; Program Coordinators Cindy Krekelberg, Lectrus Corporation, and

Melissa Beek, PHR, RAS; Student Chapter Julia Kuyper, SPHR, Midco Connections, and Doug Van Beek, SPHR, DakotAbilities; Technology Coordinator Vicki Murra, SPHR, Sammons Financial Group; and Workforce Readiness Dana Wohlwend, Training Solutions Institute.

The Junior League of Sioux Falls, a women’s volunteer organization that empowers women to be a driving force to improve the Sioux Falls community, announced the following members of its 2014-15 Board of Directors.

The President is Katie Meert, who succeeds Teri Abel and will serve a one-year term through May 2015. Other members include: President-Elect Harriet Yocum; Treasurer Angela Shaw; Corresponding Secretary Jenny

Tiehen; Public Relations Chair Ann Gausman; Arrangements/Education & Training Chair Michelle Haahr; Membership Development Chair Teri Abel; Nominating & Placement Chair Pamela Kreber; Human Trafficking Task Force Project Chair Dawn Stenberg; Human Trafficking Education Campaign Chair Jennifer Robertson; Project Research & Development Chair Jessica Aguilar; Sustaining Membership Chair Ellie Kearnes; and Pumps, Pearls, Purses (PPP) Fundraiser Co-chairs Jane Fixsel and Heather Trudeau. JLSF community projects for 2014-15 include the Human Trafficking Task Force and Human Trafficking Education Campaign.

1, 2, 3, 4 In 2002 Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau

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(CVB) Executive Director Teri Schmidt dreamed up the idea to light up Falls Park for the holiday season. Mayor Dave Munson also loved it and asked the City’s Parks & Recreation Department to string lights throughout the park. The CVB ordered cookies and hot chocolate, invited Santa and Mrs. Claus and arranged holiday music, and the Parks Department decorated Falls Park with miles and miles of lights. Thousands of people attended that first kick-off night and 12 years later, Winter Wonderland continues to be a highlight of the holiday season! This year’s display will light Falls Park each evening through Jan. 11. Committed sponsors invest in the event: the Sioux Falls Police Department assists with traffic control; Santa and Mrs. Claus and live reindeer travel to Falls Park (from the North Pole, of course); SMG, United Rental and the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds provide set-up equipment; the Parks & Recreation Department decorates the park; local businesses create ice sculptures; Ovations Food Service and The Cookie Jar provide refreshments; the Great Plains Zoo shows off some of their animals; McCrossan Boys Ranch gives wagon rides throughout the park; the Sioux Falls Trolley and School Bus Inc., provide rides from downtown locations to Falls Park; the Falls Overlook Café offers scrumptious food and a delightful environment to enjoy the activities; local media share the beautiful site with everyone to see; and current Mayor Mike Huether attends each year to enthusiastically light up the park on kick-off night. The CVB thanks all who have been partners for the past 12 years in helping to create a wonderful experience for everyone to enjoy!

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Members of the Chamber’s Sports & Recreation Committee toured the SCHEELS IcePlex, led by General Manager Brian Prisbe. The Chamber’s Business Leadership Council also toured the IcePlex in November.

6, 7 The Young Professionals Network’s annual holiday party, The Kringle, was held Dec. 4 at ICON Lounge. More than 250 people attended the event and members donated more than 224 pounds of food to Feeding South Dakota.

8, 9, 10, 11 The November Membership Mixer also included the annual Holiday Fair, which featured 40 Chamber members displaying their goods and services. Nearly 600 people attended this year’s event, which was hosted by Midcontinent Communications. 12, 16 The December Membership Mixer was sponsored by First Bank & Trust and held at their 9th Street and Minnesota Avenue location. 13 Twice a year, the Chamber hosts a New Member Mixer for all the members who have joined in the past year and for any member who wishes to learn more about how to take advantage of their Chamber membership benefits. There is a brief program and networking opportunities for those in attendance. 14 South Dakota Chamber of Commerce & Industry President David Owen presented his annual pre-legislative session preview to Chamber members and Sioux Falls area legislators. 15 State Sen. Mike Vehle (District 20-Mitchell) spoke to area legislators and Chamber members about the status of highway needs and potential funding mechanisms.

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Muller honored for service to ag industry

BY AMY SMOLIK

Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

Glenn Muller has seen the ag sector from a number of angles — as a producer, an educator, an ag lender, an employee of one of the country’s largest pork processors, and for the past five years, as an advocate for all South Dakota pork producers.

Muller has been named the Agri-Business Citizen of the Year by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce’s AgriBusiness Division. He, along with the Farm Family of the Year, will be recognized during the Sioux Empire Farm Show at the Mayor’s Round-up & Sale of Champions dinner on Friday, Jan. 30. For more information about that event, see the story on page 27.

“I’ve been in agriculture and the swine industry all my life,” Muller said. He’s in his fifth year as Executive Director of the South Dakota Pork Producers Council (SDPPC). “We do for the producers the things that they can’t do on their own,” Muller said of his organization.

Muller grew up on a hog farm in the Lennox/Davis area and still lives on the family farm. He first became involved in the SDPPC as a pork producer. He taught high school for three years in northwest Iowa and later taught farm management at Southeast Tech. Muller served as an ag lender for three years and spent 13 years working in risk management at John Morrell & Co. A number of years ago, Muller exited the hog production business, but is still involved in agriculture — as are all four of his children and their families.

He still assists, with limited involvement, in the farming 22 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

Agri-Business Citizen of the Year operation and is glad to have the opportunity to still be involved — both with his operation at home and position with the SDPPC. The SDPPC was formed in 1954 to give direction to do all things possible to improve or increase the quality and production of the swine industry in South Dakota and the U.S. Today it has nine committees and is governed by a 19-member Executive Board of Directors from districts across the state. The organization is funded with both checkoff and non-checkoff dollars.

“Our primary expenditures for checkoff go toward promotion, research and education and the non-checkoff funds go toward information and legislative issues,” Muller said. “The staff and volunteer leadership the SDPPC is able to do collectively for producers are those things that are hard for them to do independently, such as image campaigns, addressing public policy issues and doing promotional activities.”

South Dakota is also represented on the National Pork Board (NPB), with two of 15 seats on the board held by South Dakota producers. It’s an honor for South Dakota to have this much representation at the national level, Muller said, and speaks highly of the level of involvement that South

GLENN MULLER Hometown: Davis Professional: Executive Director of the South Dakota Pork Producers Council Education: South Dakota State University, degree in ag education and minor in animal science Family: Wife (Joan), nurse with Sanford Women’s Health; Children: Sarah Voegele (Shannon), Lennox, S.D.; Scott (Natalie), Davis, S.D.; Shelly Altena (Cory), George, Iowa; Steven (Amy), Agar, S.D.; Grandchildren: Cash and Sage Voegele, Kinsly Altena and Shaden Muller More information: sdppc.org Far left: Agri-Business Citizen of the Year Glenn Muller is pictured with a commemorative plaque from the 2014 Sioux Empire Farm Show Sale of Champions; this page: part of Muller’s job includes serving pork at events across the state.

Dakota producers have on the NPB, considering that South Dakota ranks 11th nationally in pork production.

The NPB, headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, was established under the terms of the Pork Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act of 1985, also known as the Pork Act, which was included as part of the 1985 Congressional Farm Bill. The board is responsible for overseeing the provision of consumer information, performing industry-related research and promotion of pork as a food product, most notably through its “Pork. The Other White Meat.” advertising program. The board’s activities are funded by a mandatory commodity checkoff program for hog farmers, which requires producers to pay into a marketing fund each time an animal is sold (see p. 24 for more information about checkoff programs).

Public policy is a huge part of what the SDPPC and NPB work on, Muller said. The Public Policy Committee has the responsibility of monitoring all issues that may affect the pork industry, especially those issues requiring legislative efforts on the state and national level. Some of the specific responsibilities of the committee include screening and recommending to the executive board a lobbyist to represent the council during the state legislative session, planning for the legislative session, presenting a legislative overview at the annual meeting and participating at the annual NPPC legislative seminar in Washington, D.C. The program of work and other expenses associated with the Public Policy Committee are entirely funded with non-checkoff dollars.

“Our producers are very highly-skilled at production practices and doing on-the-farm activities, taking care of their animals and providing a safe product, but don’t necessarily have the time to address public policy issues or coordinate promotional activities. That’s what I see as the major role of the SDPPC,” Muller said.

Muller travels to Washington, D.C. about twice a year with SDPPC leadership, he said. During the legislative session, he may travel to Pierre to testify along with producers on any legislation that affects the industry. A lobbyist is in Pierre for the duration of the session, representing the industry. The SDPPC maintains correspondence year-round with state legislators and South Dakota’s Congressional delegation about issues that affect the industry and the impact of any legislation that is being considered.

The SDPPC also promotes pork consumption and the industry. Each year they host a chef competition called Taste of Elegance in Sioux Falls and Rapid City. Pork Producers staff and volunteers can be found at a variety of events across the state — both ag-related, like the Sioux Empire Fair and other fairs, and large events with lots of attendees who are a captive audience to learn more about pork, such as Hot Harley Nights in Sioux Falls or the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally — “It presents an opportunity for us to reach out throughout the nation and beyond,” Muller said.

Throughout the year, SDPPC provides educational training for producers about maintaining food safety and employee management.

Approximately 1,200 people will attend the SDPPC’s annual meeting this month — the 46th Annual South Dakota Pork Congress. The event includes a trade show with more than 100 exhibitors displaying the latest technology, equipment, vet supplies and more. All SDPPC members are encouraged to attend to help establish policy and elect new board members. The staff and leadership will update members on events and issues that are being addressed by the Council.

Statistics that show pork’s economic impact on South Dakota indicates the high-level of management and efficiency

chambernews.com | Chamber News 23

that South Dakota pork producers employ, Muller said.

Today the size and scale of operations is much larger with fewer producers, but a relatively stable number of hogs produced. Muller said one of the main issues his organization deals with at the state and national levels are the concerns residents have about hog operations.

“It’s been more difficult to get permits for new operations, even though they’re proven to be safe, friendly to the environment and provide economic value to the communities,” Muller said.

People may have concerns, but not all of the concerns are legitimate, Muller said. Due to bio-security reasons to maintain the health of animals, many hogs are now housed in buildings. The public has their perceptions of why that’s been done, he said, while the true reason is to maintain a higher level of animal health and control their environment.

Muller said the environment of a swine barn is more closely regulated than residential homes and many of the swine barns are equipped with monitors that notify the owner whenever any environmental conditions go outside of an acceptable range, such as temperature, air movement, etc. Educating people that hog producers are very concerned with their animals’ well-being is one of the SDPPC’s primary goals. “We are excited about the fact that we’ve been very involved in securing funding for a new swine, education and research unit at South Dakota State University,” Muller said.

The groundbreaking was held in October 2014, with construction to begin this spring. The facility will be open by the fall term of 2016. In addition to offering an educational facility for students at SDSU and research facilities for the staff, this facility will also have observation walkways to allow anyone who is interested in viewing modern swine production to have the ability to observe modern production practices.

WHAT ARE CHECKOFF DOLLARS? The U.S. Department of Agriculture is responsible for overseeing the checkoff organizations formed under the Commodity, Promotion, Research and Information Pork Act of 1985.

Funding for federal commodity checkoff programs comes from mandatory contributions collected primarily from commodity suppliers. They’re called checkoff dollars because the supplier “checks off” the contribution. The rate of the assessment is recommended by the commodity board and approved by the Secretary of Agriculture. Assessments are typically based on a unit basis and are usually calculated to be about 1 percent ($.40 per $100 of value) of the value of the commodity unit.

Funds are used to promote that commodity and conduct research. Promotions are done in a generic way without referencing particular producers with an attempt to improve the market position of the commodity by expanding markets, increasing demand and developing new uses and markets.

Essentially, the promotions allow program participants to pool their money to create economies of scale in their promotional efforts using a consistent and coordinated advertising message. Recognizable campaigns include: “Got Milk?,” “The Incredible Edible Egg,” “Beef: It’s What’s For Dinner,” “Cotton The Fabric of Our Lives” and “Pork. The Other White Meat.”

producers are about environmental impacts and well-being of our animals,” Muller said. “We have a growing demand for food from population growth, and yet we see a movement to try and limit production efficiencies to better meet the demand. That’s a critical role of our organization, and other farm organizations—to help educate consumers.”

“We hope this will help our residents of South Dakota better understand what we do and how concerned our

CELEBRATING AGRICULTURE Each year the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce AgriBusiness Division recognizes a Farm Family of the Year and an Agri-Business Citizen(s) of the Year.

A subcommittee of the Agri-Business Division nominates deserving families and agri-business citizens to be considered for the award and the entire Agri-Business Council chooses the winners.

They are recognized in the January issue of Chamber News, at the Mayor’s Round-up & Sale of Champions at the Sioux Empire Farm Show and at the Agri-Business Division Annual Meeting. The Farm Family also shares their expertise by sitting on the Agri-Business Council for a year.

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This year marks the 62nd Anniversary of the Sioux Empire Farm Show. For more details about the history, see pg. 54.

For a complete schedule of activities, see pg. 27. More information about the Farm Show can also be found online at siouxempirefarmshow.org.

Farm Family of the Year

Knutsons named Farm Family of the Year

BY AMY SMOLIK

Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

A “wall of fame” in the Jason and Alicia Knutson family dining room pays homage to hours of work in agriculture by the four Knutson girls — every available space is covered with purple ribbons, plaques and photos of sheep.

When asked what their favorite part of working with their animals, the girls unanimously responded: “showing” — and their hard work has certainly paid off. They’re actively involved in the day-to-day operations and chores at their family farm between Viborg and Centerville in Turner County, and all four have been showing since they were three or four years old. They also collectively own their own land and grow their own crops each year, in addition to managing the sheep.

The Knutsons have been named the Farm Family of the Year and will be recognized during the Sioux Empire Farm Show at the Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions.

The Knutson operation consists of row crops, alfalfa, wheat, cover crops, registered Suffolk and Rambouillet sheep and a few chickens, rabbits, cows and hogs. Their sheep operation has grown and has been nationally recognized at shows. Alicia also owns Jaks Dollar & Tanning and Jaks Bridal in Viborg.

Their farm is located just seven miles from where Jason grew up. His parents had cattle and sheep were added as part of a 4-H project, Jason said. “It’s a 4-H project that got out of control,” he jokes. Today his children are the ones who are actively involved in raising and showing sheep.

He and Alicia met through FFA and married while they

were both students at South Dakota State University. They had the opportunity to move back to the area where Jason grew up. “There just wasn’t an option for any other way,” Alicia said of their decision to live on a farm and continue that tradition.

She grew up in the Sturgis area and while her mother was raised on a sheep ranch, Alicia was not involved in farm life other than being an FFA member and focusing on agribusiness activities. “I didn’t like town life. It just wasn’t for me,” she said. “I always wanted to live on a farm. I love the quietness of the country.”

FFA remains an important part of the Knutsons’ life today.

Jason served as the 1993-94 South Dakota FFA Secretary, received an American FFA Degree in 1995 and an Honorary State FFA Degree in 2012; Alicia received an Honorary State FFA Degree in 2005 and American FFA Degree in 2011.

Alicia is known as “FFA Mom” to many students (including some who are now adults) across the state, her daughters say, because of her work with the organization.

Leadership and involvement is a trait the Knutsons have passed on to their daughters. Both Jaclynn and Alison serve on the United Junior Suffolk Sheep Association Board. Their leadership roles have enabled them to travel across the country and gain skills that will benefit them in the future, as well as connecting them with people in the sheep industry across the country. The Board, made up entirely of young sheep producers ages 13-21, is tasked with putting on an annual show and all the responsibilities it entails— sponsors, awards, judges and chambernews.com | Chamber News 25

KNUTSON FAMILY Family: Jason and Alicia Knutson; children: Jaclynn (17, junior), Alison (15, sophomore), Shania (13, 8th grade) and Kasi (11, 6th grade) Hometown: Viborg (Jason: Centerville, Alicia: Sturgis) Education: Jason and Alicia are both graduates of South Dakota State University; Jaclynn and Alison attend Viborg High School; Shania and Kasi attend middle school in Hurley Business: All are involved in the Knutson farm, Alicia also owns Jaks Dollar & Tanning and Jaks Bridal in Viborg Community/Ag Activities: all four girls are involved in sports and extracurricular school activities; Jaclynn and Alison serve on the Board of Directors for the United Junior Suffolk Sheep Association; the girls also regularly compete in pageants focused on academics and community service

a banquet. Both girls will travel to Massachusetts for the 2015 show, which includes about 50-100 juniors and 200 sheep.

Making connections through leadership has enabled the girls to have “go-to” people to ask when they have questions, Jason and Alicia say. They say they also benefited from their time at SDSU, making lifelong friends who also serve as great resources for ag-related questions.

Travel to and from shows has kept Jaclynn and Alison busy, especially last summer. “Me and Shania got really good at chores last summer,” Kasi said. Between the crazy schedules, Alicia said everyone works together to ensure that chores are done and that the house is kept up. Between sports and extracurricular activities, it all works out, they say.

Technology enables them to be efficient in their work on the farm, from GPS and auto-steering in tractors to ultrasounding their ewes. But some things are still done the old-fashioned way — Jason makes the girls write everything out when it comes to putting their budgets together for their farm operation.

For most teenagers, what the future holds is unknown — but not for the Knutson girls. All four girls intend to follow in their parents’ footsteps and go to SDSU. They may not know exactly what they want to study yet, but know that agriculture will still be a major part of their lives.

“I’ve learned a lot showing sheep and want to continue with that. Not just about sheep, but lessons in life. I really love it.

I feel we can expand our operation further and learn more,” Alison said.

Their parents know that it is harder today for young farmers to get started, but feel they are giving their girls the tools they’ll need if they choose to continue in the family farming operation.

“I will continue the sheep operation wherever I go,” Jaclynn said. “I would like to grow our operation to become a nationally-known family. Although we have put our name out there, I want people to know that we mean business, that we’re very competitive at the national level. I want people to say, ‘Oh, they’re the Knutson girls.’”

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The Jason and Alicia Knutson family of Viborg were named the Farm Family of the Year by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. Pictured from L to R: Jason, Shania, Kasi and Alicia; back row: Jaclynn and Alison.

The girls own 100 acres and rent an additional 150 acres under the name “Knutson Girls Land and Livestock.” When land prices were fairly reasonable, they were able to purchase land and used the profits from their crops from a few good years to pay everything off. Jaclynn has planting corn since she was 15 and Alison helps haul manure. Shania and Kasi also assist where they can. Alicia runs the combine and can still manage her store using her phone while she’s out in the fields.

Jason says he usually just chases after the women.

“It’s too expensive for someone to start out fresh. If we don’t help them get somewhere from the start, it’s not ever going to be possible,” Alicia said. “If none of them decide to come back here and they all meet someone somewhere else, we can rent it from them or they can sell it. It’s all kind of paid for itself. It will help pay for college and get them a start.”

Alicia said people have asked Jason if he wished he had any sons — and both are quick to defend their daughters. The girls can do anything a boy can do and 10 times more, Alicia said.

“And we can do it better,” Jaclynn said.

The girls all agree they wouldn’t want to grow up any other way than on a farm.

“I don’t see myself in any other life. It’s the way we were raised,” Jaclynn said. “Of course you don’t like scooping manure or being outside in below zero temperatures, but put it all together and it’s what makes the operation a family operation — everyone working together and getting it all done.”

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS • JAN. 27-31, 2015 TUESDAY, JAN. 27

FRIDAY, JAN. 30

4:30 p.m.

Ribbon Cutting (Expo Building)

9 a.m.

Supreme Row Judging

5 p.m.

4-H/FFA Invitational Calf Show

10 a.m.

Market Goat Show

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28 8 a.m.

Market Barrow and Gilt Show

8:30 a.m.

Angus Show Simmental Show

11:30 a.m. Simmental Sale 1 p.m.

Angus Sale

4:30 p.m.

Ribbon Cutting (Convention Center)

THURSDAY, JAN. 29 8 a.m.

Hereford Show Charolais Show

9:30 a.m.

Red Angus Show Limousin Show

11:30 a.m. Hereford Sale 12:30 p.m. Charolais Sale

WHY PARTICIPATE? FUN! Return to your agricultural roots or learn more about one of South Dakota’s largest industries. Either way, you can enjoy the camaraderie of hundreds of folks from Sioux Falls area businesses. Get together with your friends and co-workers for a great prime rib dinner and to support agriculture.

LOCAL RECOGNITION When you purchase livestock at the Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions, your company will be recognized in advertisements in the Argus Leader, Tri-State Neighbor and Chamber News.

Business representatives who bid on the Grand and Reserve Champions and 3rd place market livestock for each animal species will have their photos included in the ads.

SUPPORT OF THE VISITOR INDUSTRY The growing Sioux Empire Farm Show draws exhibitors from more than 20 states and brings more than 30,000 people to Sioux Falls annually. An estimated $3 million is brought into the greater community through the five-day show.

SUPPORT OF THE AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY Agriculture is South Dakota’s No. 1 industry, generating an annual revenue of $20.9 billion. By participating, you show your support for the regional agricultural community.

SUPPORT OF THE SIOUX EMPIRE FARM SHOW The Sale of Champions is a big incentive for producers to attend the Sioux Empire Farm Show. In 2014, more than $60,000 was paid out to 22 market livestock producers in cash awards and bids. By showing financial support yourself or through your business, you are able to support agriculture and promote the region’s largest market and purebred livestock show.

2 p.m.

Red Angus Sale

2:45 p.m.

Limousin Sale

6 p.m.

Feeder Heifer Show Market Lamb Show

10:30 a.m. Market Beef Show 11:30 a.m. Feeder Steer Show 6:30 p.m.

Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions and $12,000 Supreme Row Cash Awards Presentation sponsored by Tri-State Neighbor, Wells Fargo Bank (South Dakota) NA and Campbell Supply Co.

SATURDAY, JAN. 31 6:30 a.m.

Sr. College Judging Contest

8:30 a.m.

Youth and Open Rabbit Show

10 a.m.

Junior Livestock Judging Contest

12:30 p.m. Breeding Beef

Heifer Show 1:30 p.m.

Announce Junior Judging Contest Winners

6:30 p.m.

Pony Pull

7 p.m.

Draft Horse Pull

MAYOR’S ROUND-UP & SALE OF CHAMPIONS Friday, Jan. 30, 2015 Best Western PLUS Ramkota Hotel Exhibit Hall 5:30 Social • 6:30 Dinner • 7:30 Program/Auction RSVP to Maddie Gutierrez: mgutierrez@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2015 Reserved tables of 8, individual tickets are $45/per person with reserved tables of eight

HOW TO BID: Buyers who participate in the Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions are paying a premium to the market livestock producer — which means you are not purchasing the animal on which you are bidding. This dollar amount is in addition to the market price they receive for their animal (the Sioux Empire Farm Show is a terminal show so all livestock sold at the Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions go to slaughter).

• Livestock is auctioned by the head. This means the dollar amount you bid is the dollar amount you pay.

• Livestock can be purchased by cooperative bidders.

• Each year the Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions Buyers Committee works to increase the premiums paid to producers — which is a great opportunity for multiple businesses to partner to purchase an animal at the auction. The Sale of Champions is an incentive for many producers to attend the Sioux Empire Farm Show. Partnering with another business is a great way to bump up the premiums for the producers.

• ALL BUYERS at the Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions will get their photos taken with the producers and the animals and will receive the commemorative photos at an appreciation banquet later in the year.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 27

BUSINESS ADVOCACY

Chamber’s 2015 Policy Statements Since 1993, policy statements addressing broad issue areas have been endorsed by the Chamber Board to direct Chamber business advocacy efforts. The policy statements have been reviewed annually and modified to reflect the issues and context of the day as necessary.

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors approves the following statements to guide lobbying and community development activities in 2015.

QUALITY OF LIFE

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce believes individuals living in the area should be able to enjoy personal security, quality education, first-rate medical care, adequate and affordable housing, economic opportunity and diverse leisure activities. The business community in Sioux Falls should contribute to the overall quality of life by showing generosity, concern and involvement in the community.

TAXATION

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce supports a fair and reasonable tax system wherein necessary revenue is collected to support essential government services. For taxation purposes agricultural land, non-agricultural, commercial property and housing should be valued using equitable and uniform methods in all counties. At the state level, there is no need for a corporate or personal income tax. The Chamber recognizes that a basic level of funding is required to fund the necessary services of government. The Chamber understands that inflationary pressures, cost increases and changing conditions may require tax and fee increases, however, the Chamber supports the concept that reorganization of priorities and cutting of spending should be carefully considered for budget shortfalls at all levels of government before tax and fee increases are considered.

BUSINESS CLIMATE

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce believes our economy is best served by allowing free and open competition in the marketplace. Laws that preclude or give advantage to one business structure or arrangement over another ultimately lessen competition and reduce our area’s attractiveness as a business location. Barriers to business investment and capital formation impede growth and economic diversification. Appropriate rules and regulations may be required for a viable free market, but government intrusion should not unnecessarily inhibit or restrict business.

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce opposes unnecessary intrusions into employer/employee relationships. We support voluntary agreements between management and the workforce establishing compensation, benefits, hours and working conditions.

EDUCATION

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce advocates a quality education system that provides individuals the chance to reach their own life goals and supports the current and future workforce needs of the community. We support efforts to adequately fund an effective, efficient system of pre-kindergarten, K-12, technical and

28 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

post-secondary schools, both locally and statewide. The distribution of state aid dollars to local school districts should be equitably based, at least in part, on the number of children served. The Chamber urges continued dialogue regarding population growth and diversity in the Sioux Falls area and the effect on regional school districts. It is important to maintain an employment environment for schools that attracts and retains quality employees in education. Individual businesses should engage in cooperative partnerships with schools in order to expand learning opportunities.

INFRASTRUCTURE

Federal, state and local government should maintain a high quality infrastructure network, which provides for development. Emphasis must be placed on adequately designing, constructing and maintaining a growth-managed infrastructure network (roads, air, rail, water, sewer, public transit and public facilities) which is cost-effective yet provides the highest possible level of service to residential and commercial sectors of the Sioux Falls metropolitan area. The effort to maintain adequate infrastructure is necessary to sustain current growth trends while retaining a high quality, urban environment.

ENVIRONMENT

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce places a high priority on safeguarding and conserving both the quality and quantity of our area’s natural amenities. Government, in partnership with business, should share a responsible role in conserving, enhancing and protecting our water quality, air quality and land. Landowners and sportsmen should work together to ease conflicts in land access and game management issues, in order to preserve the economic and quality of life benefits from outdoor recreation. Given the substantial public and private investments to develop the river greenway, and the potential to develop a first-class amenity in our community, strategies to support a clean-up of the Big Sioux River and its tributaries should be identified and implemented.

GOVERNMENT

LOCAL The Sioux Falls area should be open to cooperative efforts between local units of government as well as consolidation efforts among local units of government. Growth in the area provides an opportunity to explore new forms and methods of government to ensure taxpayers receive cost-effective government and quality service delivery.

STATE The state government in South Dakota should operate in a way that allows for continued balanced budgets without imposing undue tax burdens on state residents and commerce. Every effort should be made to distribute limited state resources in a fair and equitable manner. State directives to local governments should not rely on unfunded mandates.

FEDERAL The federal government should strive for a balanced budget.

Legislative mandates imposed on state and local governments should be accompanied by the necessary funds to carry out the mandates.

BUSINESS ADVOCACY

TOURISM

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, through the Convention & Visitors Bureau, supports private and governmental efforts to enhance and market the area’s full tourism potential. The cultural history of our area provides destinations of worldwide interest, and the Sioux Falls metropolitan area is a key starting point and destination. Efforts to encourage business and sports-related tourism should continue in earnest, given the new and future facilities we have to offer.

HOUSING

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, working with the Sioux Empire Housing Partnership, supports public and private efforts to provide affordable housing in the Sioux Falls area. The Chamber supports public and private efforts to redevelop blighted areas in the city and encourages additional housing development and redevelopment in the downtown district.

WORKFORCE

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, working with the Sioux Falls Development Foundation, supports efforts toward workforce enhancement through attraction, retention and educational attainment strategies that provide continued economic growth and individual opportunity in the Sioux Falls area.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, working in partnership with the Sioux Falls Development Foundation, believes in proactive approach to business development through business parks, the South Dakota Technology Business Center, the USD Research Park at University Center and the Forward Sioux Falls initiative. The Chamber supports these activities to further a progressive and growing economy ever moving forward to support the goals of its constituency.

CHAMBER ADVOCACY ISSUES siouxfallschamber.com The Chamber’s 2015 Platform and Policy Statements can be found online at siouxfallschamber.com under the Advocacy tab, along with a listing of Sioux Falls area legislators. For more information about these documents or the Chamber’s lobbying efforts, contact Public Affairs & Communications Director Mark Lee at (605) 336-1620 or mlee@siouxfalls.com.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 29

BUSINESS ADVOCACY

Chamber’s 2015 Legislative Platform In order to develop its legislative platform, the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, through its Issues Management and Issues Research councils, conducts research, hears presentations and surveys its members about issues affecting business. These efforts, combined with actively following and monitoring legislative activity since the close of last session, guide our efforts toward developing the platform for the upcoming session. The platform is reviewed, edited and approved by the Issues Management Council and forwarded to the Chamber Board. The 2015 Legislative Platform was approved

by Issues Management Council on Dec. 11, 2014, reviewed by the Executive Committee on Dec. 15, 2014 and adopted by the Board of Directors on Dec. 17, 2014.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

SB 235 of the 2013 Legislative Session established the Building South Dakota Fund and during the 2014 Session, one-time funds were used to forward fund the new program. We continue to monitor the use and impact of this program and we will closely analyze any legislation that impacts this program and other economic development efforts in our state.

Tax increment financing (TIF) has been an effective economic development tool and the Chamber supports current law regarding the application of TIFs and opposes changes that would negatively impact this program’s effectiveness.

INFRASTRUCTURE

The Chamber recognizes that a safe, efficient and responsive transportation infrastructure is critical to economic development and business commerce in Sioux Falls and throughout South Dakota.

The Chamber encourages the 2015 Legislature to address the funding needs of our state and local highway and bridge systems and realizes that the current draft bill will undergo significant changes to make it acceptable to the many constituencies. We encourage the Legislature to help ensure that county and township road and bridge needs, and funding sources to address those needs, are considered.

The Chamber supports the evaluation of the condition of our state highway system on an ongoing basis, but opposes language in the draft bill that might jeopardize road improvements in and around Sioux Falls and the Black Hills that are important to economic growth and development.

The Chamber supports expanding connections to the Lewis and Clark Regional Water system and the funding proposal for a zero interest reimbursable grant to help connect Madison to the system.

Expanding the number of connected communities, thus increasing the utilization and efficiency of the water treatment plant, will decrease the cost of water for all connected communities.

EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce recognizes the many requests for state funding that arise each year and our system of public education – K-12, technical institutes and universities – represents a top priority. The future of Sioux Falls and South Dakota depends on developing our workforce to remain competitive on a national and international scale. It is vital to foster an educational system that works in tandem with the business community and

30 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

government to ensure workforce development initiatives are created and administered effectively. We look forward to evaluating workforce development proposals that may arise during the Legislative Session.

To support our state’s citizens and to meet our workforce development needs, the Chamber supports the allocation of public monies to ensure funds for an equitable, effective and efficient system of K-12, technical schools and higher education.

K-12 FUNDING: The Chamber supports the Governor’s budget request that includes a 2 percent increase in the base funding per student allocation. The Chamber acknowledges Sioux Falls’ and South Dakota’s relative position in the area of teacher pay and the growing effects on recruitment and retention of quality teachers. Quality education is essential for the business community to attract new employers and employees. We encourage policy makers to consider solutions to address this issue.

LIMITATIONS ON CAPITAL OUTLAY: The Chamber is concerned with the proposed limitations on capital outlay levies that would freeze the levy and cap assessed valuation growth of property which could jeopardize area school districts’ ability to respond to facility and other needs as they emerge. Such action would likely be unconstitutional as to any school district with outstanding certificates and it would likely drive up the cost of all districts’ borrowing by adversely impacting bond ratings. In addition, attempts to shift funding from capital outlay to the general formula that negatively impact the business community will be resisted.

TECHNICAL INSTITUTES: As demand for a technically-skilled workforce continues to grow, South Dakota’s technical institutes require the ability to respond programmatically to that demand and the funding for workforce-related programs. Costs continue to rise particularly in regard to serving students in high-cost program areas.

The Chamber supports the proposal to increase the per student allocation by 2 percent as an investment in the workforce of tomorrow, which is critical for continued economic development.

The Chamber supported the technical institute governance bill in the 2014 session and would support amendments to that legislation necessary to effectively implement the 2014 measure and would consider other governance changes to ensure an effective and responsive approach to technical education that supports workforce needs.

The Chamber supports expansion of the Southeast Tech campus and legislation that would enable construction of planned facilities.

HIGHER EDUCATION: The Chamber acknowledges that a highly educated citizenry is critically important to many individual businesses and to competitively position our community for future economic development and we support funding for the Regental system included in the Governor’s budget.

SCHOLARSHIPS AND NEED-BASED AID: The Chamber supports the governor’s proposal to expand the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship from $5,000 to $6,500. The Chamber also believes that need-based aid programs for eligible students attending any South Dakota post-secondary institution should be expanded and enhanced.

BUSINESS ADVOCACY

USD RESEARCH PARK AT UNIVERSITY CENTER: The Chamber supports the development of the USD Research Park at University Center and legislation to facilitate planning and construction.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

PROSECUTION AND DEFENSE OF INMATES: The Chamber supports a change in state law that would shift the burden from the county to the state for defense costs for inmates that commit a crime while incarcerated in the state correctional system.

LIMITS ON COUNTY TAX INCREASES: The Chamber is concerned about resources available to counties to address, in particular, increased behavioral health and criminal justice costs. We will closely monitor proposals to enhance revenues to support Minnehaha and Lincoln counties, including adjusting the annual indexing provisions of current law.

MEDICAID PROVIDER FUNDING: The Chamber recognizes the role the nonprofit community plays in providing essential services to our most vulnerable citizens and supports the Governor’s recommendation for a 2 percent increase in Medicaid reimbursement.

EXPANSION: The Chamber believes it is important to consider the issue of Medicaid expansion. The extensive research of the Medicaid Task Force is acknowledged and expansion in future years should be considered. The Chamber encourages the State to continue its dialogue and negotiations toward a solution that best fits South Dakota and, more immediately, addresses the healthcare needs of the most impoverished of our citizens.

CHAMBER ADVOCACY ISSUES siouxfallschamber.com The Chamber’s 2015 Platform and Policy Statements can be found online at siouxfallschamber.com under the Advocacy tab, along with a list of Sioux Falls area legislators.

For more information about these documents or the Chamber’s lobbying efforts, contact Public Affairs & Communications Director Mark Lee at (605) 336-1620 or mlee@siouxfalls.com.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 31

HEADLINES

T. Denny Sanford donated $25 million to South Dakota to go toward scholarships at in-state technical institutes beginning in the fall of 2015. Pictured from L to R: Senator-elect and former Gov. Mike Rounds, T. Denny Sanford, Chamber Chair of the Board Dana Dykhouse, First PREMIER Bank, and Gov. Dennis Daugaard.

New scholarship program to address immediate workforce needs T. Denny Sanford, United National Corporation Chair of the Board, and the state of South Dakota have collaborated on a new scholarship program called Build Dakota Scholarships, created through an equal $25 million investment totaling $50 million.

Sanford has donated $25 million to be paid over five years, and the state will match that amount, investing from South Dakota’s Future Fund. The fund will provide for approximately 300 scholarships in each of the first five years beginning in fall 2015. Following 2020, an endowment will continue to award about 50 scholarships each year. Funds will be administered by the South Dakota Community Foundation.

The program is modeled after Dakota Corps scholarships, which was established by Gov. Mike Rounds approximately 10 years ago. The Build South Dakota scholarship will be available to in-state and out-of-state students. To be eligible, a student must have an interest in high-need workforce areas, be a U.S. citizen or U.S. national, show financial need and demonstrate aptitude.

Scholarship applications will be due in April.

Scholarship recipients must agree to enroll full-time at one of South Dakota’s four technical schools in a program determined as a high-need workforce area in South Dakota, and following graduation, must work full-time in their field of study in South Dakota for a minimum 32 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

of three years. The Governor will appoint a board to determine the high-need workforce areas and administer the scholarships.

“Hundreds of students will have the opportunity to enter high-demand fields without incurring debt,” Gov. Dennis Daugaard said at the announcement. “The impact of this will be huge, not only for the students who receive the scholarship, but to our state and its employers.”

This scholarship program, which includes tuition, fees, books and other required program expenses, provides a full-ride to one of South Dakota’s four technical institutes. They are located in Sioux Falls (Southeast Tech), Mitchell (Mitchell Tech), Rapid City (Western Dakota Tech) and Watertown (Lake Area Tech).

Sanford’s donations have topped more than $1 billion, with significant investments in South Dakota including the Sanford Underground Research Center, Sanford Health and the Edith Sanford Breast Cancer Foundation.

For more information about Build Dakota, contact Tiffany Sanderson with the South Dakota Department of Education at (605) 773-7006 or tiffany.sanderson@ state.sd.us.

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.

CURRENT CAMPAIGN

DAKOTABILITIES APRIL 1-JULY 31, 2015 $1.007 MILLION Renovate and remodel Longfellow school for new/consolidated headquarters

NOV. 1, 2014-MARCH 31, 2015 $1.2 MILLION Feeding South Dakota will expand their current facility to enhance ongoing programs and create more efficiencies.

LUTHERAN SOCIAL SERVICES APRIL 1-JULY 31, 2016 $1.25 MILLION To build a new “Center for Community Services” to house multiple programs

For more information visit feedingsouthdakota.org.

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.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 33

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Exciting future for state, Sioux Falls A new year always brings with it the promise of new opportunities for growth and change. My team and I couldn’t be more excited about the growth and change we see occurring with tourism in South Dakota and, particularly, in Sioux Falls.

JIM HAGEN

South Dakota Department of Tourism

Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau Mission To market the city of Sioux Falls, S.D., 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. 40.

The visitor industry in South Dakota is an integral part of our state’s economy. Tourism has a nearly $2 billion economic impact on our state and generates close to 20 percent of all state and local tax revenues. In South Dakota, one out of every 11 jobs depends upon travel and tourism, employing 28,000 of our citizens. The tax burden on every household in our state would be nearly $900 higher if tourism didn’t play such an important role in our economy.

A major reason why tourism has such a profound impact is because of the remarkable growth of the visitor industry right here in Sioux Falls.

I have been very inspired watching the visitor industry continue to boom in our state’s largest city.

Much of this growth and success is directly attributed to the diligence and hard work of the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB), led

by Teri Schmidt. The South Dakota Department of Tourism is proud to partner with the CVB to promote Sioux Falls and South Dakota to visitors from around the globe. The cooperative marketing partnership that we have with the CVB to promote winter travel to Sioux Falls has shown tremendous results. The strategy to target leisure travelers in South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa and Nebraska, who would be most likely to plan a trip to Sioux Falls during the winter season, is filling hotel rooms and making Sioux Falls a year-round destination. For the first time ever, the Sioux Falls CVB and the Department of Tourism will embark upon a leisure travel campaign for the 2015 peak season. We know this will be a resounding success and are excited to watch this campaign grow.

In April, the Sioux Falls CVB will host the annual Rocky Mountain International (RMI) Roundup, a first for the city and eastern South Dakota. This important travel show draws international group tour operators, tour receptive operators, and travel writers from nations like Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Belgium, Holland and Australia who are looking to add new products from the states of South Dakota, North Dakota, Wyoming and Montana. They plan to develop new trip itineraries to share with clients in their respective countries. This is a fantastic opportunity

34 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

to showcase tourism-related events, businesses and attractions in Sioux Falls and South Dakota as a whole. Teri and her team have done an outstanding job in successfully landing this show, and I can’t wait to see what sort of future dividends it will pay.

I know they are going to “knock it out of the park” with an impressive job of hospitality and showmanship for attendees. The fact that Sioux Falls is hosting RMI Roundup is already creating a lot of buzz among those who will be attending.

In addition, there are so many things happening in Sioux Falls right now that it is almost hard to keep track of! The Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, and all the new doors it is opening for major concerts and NCAA tournaments, is putting a renewed national spotlight on the city. The Sanford Sports Complex, and the draw it has become for families and athletes from around the region and surrounding states, will continue to play a major role in drawing visitors to Sioux Falls.

The continued development of downtown with restaurants, breweries and unique shopping experiences has already garnered national recognition. The Department of Tourism had a great time working hand-in-hand with the CVB as we pitched the story to the New York Times about the emerging culinary scene in Sioux Falls. SculptureWalk continues to elevate the allure of Phillips Avenue and downtown.

The planned Arc of Dreams will be an incredible sculpture that will be unique in the country. The continued development of the new Good Earth State Park at Blood Run is a major asset to tourism development in Sioux Falls and southeastern South Dakota. The cultural offerings at the Washington Pavilion, JazzFest, Falls Park … I could go on and on. Bottom line, Sioux Falls and South Dakota are blessed with a rich array of tourism product. As it grows, it will pique the interest of even more visitors and convention and meeting planners from around the world. The recent designation of Sioux Falls as an emerging destination by the national travel professions publication, Groups Today, solidifies that point.

The Department of Tourism will continue to work closely with the CVB to put a spotlight on all the exciting attractions, events and businesses that await visitors. We are excited to watch the growth that will continue to occur. Here’s to a recordsetting 2015 for the visitor industry in Sioux Falls!

Jim Hagen is the Secretary of the Department of Tourism for the state of South Dakota.

Wrap yourself in Sioux Falls Falls Park Visitor Information Center offers the largest selection of Sioux Falls memorabilia.

Open Saturday and Sundays 10am-5pm.

605.367.7430 VisitSiouxFalls.com/FallsPark

Bring your meeting home Our passionate staff is ready to bring any meeting, convention or event to Sioux Falls. Dedicated to rolling out the red carpet for planners, the Convention and Visitors Bureau Sales Team exceeds expectations!

Contact us to help bring a meeting you attend to Sioux Falls.

275.6060 • sales@siouxfalls.com VisitSiouxFalls.com/BringitHome

CHAMBER PARTNER

Forget the resolution — start a revolution Do you have a New Year’s resolution? If yes, scrap it. If not, don’t bother. Yes, you read that right. Don’t make a resolution. Instead, start a revolution.

Resolutions are like goals you want to reach — losing weight or training for a marathon.

However, life has a way of getting in the middle of our resolutions. We get impatient if we don’t see the numbers on the scale moving as fast as we’d like. Our desire to go out for a run might be hampered by weather, getting the kids to activities or simply not feeling motivated.

If we only focus on the 20 pounds we want to lose or the looming date of a marathon, we put unnecessary stress on ourselves and we’re more likely to give up.

MARY MICHAELS Live Well Sioux Falls

Healthy people are more productive, require fewer sick days and may experience lower healthassociated costs.

A revolution, though, is a movement ... a process ... and that can lead to lasting change. For example, if you want to lose weight, focus on moving more and eating well rather than the scale.

With most of us spending an average of 47 hours at work each week (according to a Gallup Work Survey), our worksites play an ever-increasing role in our overall well-being. Here’s why: A healthy workforce is essential to America’s continued growth and prosperity. Much of the illness in the U.S. is directly preventable. The workplace is an ideal setting to address health and well-being.

A culture of well-being at the worksite can contribute to better health — physical, mental and emotional — for you and your co-workers. Healthy people are more productive, require fewer sick days and may experience lower health-associated costs. Both employers and employees can promote a healthier work environment, so here’s how to start the health revolution at work:

EAT WELL

Plan ahead. Worksites are filled with temptations like vending machines and co-workers’ birthday treats. Pack your own healthy lunch and snacks. Start a worksite wellness committee to work on vending and meeting policies to encourage healthier food choices. Don’t skip lunch. Even though the work day can get busy, take time for a healthy meal. If you don’t, you might find yourself feeling sluggish and losing focus. Plus, you’ll be more likely to overeat at dinnertime. Drink water. Keep a reusable mug at your desk and sip on water all day. It keeps your body and mind working, and it can help curb your appetite (so you can say no thanks to the donuts!).

MOVE WELL

Get up from the chair. Simply put, sitting too much is bad for you. Your body and mind will fall asleep, much like when you skip a meal. At least once every hour, get up for a walk or a stretch. Get active with coworkers. Go talk to your coworkers instead of emailing them.

Have a walking meeting. Form a walking group. Employers can explore options for on-site fitness activities.

FEEL WELL

Find balance. While everyone feels there aren’t enough hours in the day, a healthy work-life balance is essential to keep you energized and productive. Do your best to set boundaries between home and office. Get your checkups. Most illnesses and chronic diseases are preventable. Be sure to stay on track with annual visits to the doctor and dentist. Get your blood pressure checked regularly. Many employers offer on-site health screenings, so take advantage of those opportunities. Safety first. Safe work practices and ergonomic workstations can help you feel your best.

To feel your best in 2015, don’t worry about the resolutions. Goals are good for planning your progress, but creating a revolution — your system for being healthy — will help you actually make progress. Find more resources for healthy worksites at livewellsiouxfalls.org/ resources/work-well/.

Mary Michaels is a Healthy Community Specialist with the City of Sioux Falls Health Department.

36 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

USING YOUR MEMBERSHIP

Why you should hold a ribbon cutting ceremony

BY AMY M. FARR

Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

Are you a new Chamber member? Have you expanded by brick and mortar? Have new ownership or a new name? Are you celebrating a milestone anniversary? If so, please contact our office to schedule a ribbon cutting!

A ribbon cutting is a great way to promote your business and share your business’ success story with other members of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce and the community. Ribbon cuttings are one of the most tangible benefits of Chamber membership — each month in this magazine, see pages 43-48, the Chamber recognizes members with ribbon cutting photos.

Having a ribbon cutting is a benefit available only to Chamber members. Here’s how it works: You choose the date and location, and if it’s available, the date and time are set. The Chamber promotes your ribbon cutting online at siouxfallschamber.com under the Events tab, in the weekly email Quickly, and on the Chamber’s Facebook page and Twitter feed.

When calling the Chamber office to schedule your ribbon cutting, here are a few helpful hints: contact the office about four to six weeks out from your ideal date. Ribbon cuttings are held at either 11:30 a.m. or 4:30 p.m.: Tuesday-Friday at 11:30 a.m. and Monday-Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. Once your ribbon cutting has been scheduled, you will receive a confirmation letter, sample agenda and a questionnaire approximately one to two weeks prior to your event.

Please complete the questionnaire and return it three to five days before your ribbon cutting. This will ensure the proper time for staff to prepare the agenda for a successful event.

At your ribbon cutting, members of the Chamber’s Ambassador and Diplomat committees and a Young Professionals Network Steering Committee member will speak. Your ribbon cutting plaque will be presented by a member of the Board of Directors. The hosting member also speaks at the ribbon cutting ceremony, telling all in attendance the story of their business or purpose for the ribbon cutting. The Chamber brandishes a large pair of scissors and the ribbon is cut, with a photo taken to commemorate the event. The photo is later published in the Chamber News magazine and is immediately shared on the Chamber’s Facebook page.

FORM Fitness Studio & Boutique held a ribbon cutting to celebrate their new membership in the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce.

Don’t have an office or a space large enough to hold a ribbon cutting? No problem! You can hold your ribbon cutting at the Chamber office in the Betty J. Ordal Conference Center. Some members choose to hold their ribbon cutting ceremonies at other locations across the community, too.

If you’re still unsure about hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony, attend an event for a fellow Chamber member to see how it works.

Look online, check the Chamber’s mobile app or read Quickly for a schedule of upcoming events. All members (and the public) are invited to celebrate with Chamber members and attend ribbon cutting ceremonies.

For more information, or to schedule your ribbon cutting, call (605) 336-1620.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 37

MEMBER’S VOICE

Exploitation happens in Sioux Falls, but there are ways you can help Forced prostitution isn’t something that just happens in big cities or other countries.

Women, children and men are being abused and exploited every day — right here in Sioux Falls. The Junior League of Sioux Falls (JLSF) is working with stakeholders across the state on human trafficking initiatives and is committed to educating our community on this issue.

Junior League members developed a presentation to educate the public about human trafficking and have shared it across the community.

Junior League is a volunteer organization for women interested in making a positive impact in their communities. Junior League develops the potential of women through leadership training so that they are equipped to take action to improve communities. Members are accomplished collaborators who build coalitions, identify community needs and develop effective and responsive programs to meet those needs.

In 2013, JLSF started two Human Trafficking Task Forces. One task force focuses on the law and policies surrounding human trafficking; the second task force focuses on educating and training the organizations that come into contact with victims on how to identify and respond to victims. In addition to the two task forces, JLSF began a second project as part of the education and awareness efforts. Junior League members developed a presentation to educate the public about human trafficking and have shared it across the community.

What is human trafficking? According to The Polaris Project, a national organization working to end human trafficking, it can be defined as a form of modern-day slavery where people profit from the control and exploitation of others. As defined under U.S. federal law, victims of human trafficking include children involved in the sex trade, adults age 18 or over who are coerced or deceived into commercial sex acts and anyone forced into different forms of “labor or services” such as domestic workers held in a home or farm workers forced to labor against their will. The factors that each of these situations have in common are elements of force, fraud or coercion that are used to control people. Then, that control is tied to inducing someone into commercial sex acts, labor or services. Whenever there is force, fraud or coercion involved, it is trafficking. The average recruitment age into sex trafficking by minors is 12-14 years of age.

JLSF opposes human trafficking in all its forms and supports programs that create criminal and civil penalties for those who perpetuate modern slavery. We support the education of law enforcement agencies on how to identify human trafficking victims and to ensure that victims are not treated as criminals, but are referred to the proper organizations to get the assistance and support they need. We are committed to educating our membership and the greater community on this issue.

What can you do to help? Re-frame the issue; stop criminalizing the victims. It is unreasonable to assign a label to an oppressed person that implies that he/she is responsible for his/ her own exploitation.

Talk to your school and ask that information protecting children from sexual exploitation be included in the school curriculum and that teachers, counselors and other staff are educated on what to watch for.

Contact your elected officials and let them know you are concerned about the issue and support efforts to end the exploitation of children in South Dakota. Support much needed policy changes at the local, state, national and international levels.

Do you know a group that would benefit from human trafficking training? January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. If you would like to host a JLSF-led presentation on human trafficking or receive more information on advocacy actions, email jlsf@jlsiouxfalls.org or use the Contact Us page at jlsiouxfalls.org to schedule an event and help raise awareness.

Jennifer Robertson is the Chair of the Junior League of Sioux Falls Human Trafficking Education & Awareness Committee.

38 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

BUSINESS NEWS

Lewis & Clark to share $31 million in additional funding The U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate approved the fiscal year (FY) 2015 Budget that includes an additional $31 million for the Bureau of Reclamation’s (BOR) Rural Water Program. Once finalized, BOR officials will decide how to divide the $31 million among six rural water projects. In addition to Lewis & Clark Regional Water System (LCRWS), there are two projects in Montana, two in New Mexico and one in North Dakota.

President Obama proposed a total of $16.3 million for rural water construction in his FY15 Budget. Of that amount, he proposed $2.4 million for Lewis & Clark.

Whatever portion of the $31 million Lewis & Clark receives would be on top of the $2.4 million. With the additional funding, the total construction funding for the Rural

Water Program would be $47.3 million. This is close to the $49 million designated in the FY14 Budget and the $51 million designated in the FY13 Budget. The combined remaining federal cost share for the six projects is currently $1.4 billion. In FY14 Lewis & Clark received a total of $8.35 million.

“The tri-state congressional delegation in South Dakota, Minnesota and Iowa fought long and hard this year to secure additional funding, and we cannot thank them enough for their strong bi-partisan support and leadership,” said LCRWS Executive Director Troy Larson. “While everyone hoped the final number may even be higher, this is certainly a situation where we need to view the glass as being ‘half full.’ Hopefully the Bureau of Reclamation will agree with the

many good arguments being made why a significant portion of the $31 million should be allocated to Lewis & Clark.”

Lewis & Clark Regional Water System is currently 65 percent complete and is delivering water to 11 of its 20 members. Started in 1990, January marks its 25th anniversary of incorporation. Two more members — Rock County Rural Water District and Luverne, Minn. — are expected to begin receiving water in 2015. When completed Lewis & Clark will benefit an estimated 300,000 people in southeast South Dakota, northwest Iowa and southwest Minnesota in a service area the size of Connecticut.

YPN seeks more members during drive Don’t miss out on the 2015 Young Professionals Network Membership Drive taking place Jan. 26-March 6.

Recruiting new YPN members is easy.

Send your referral to siouxfallsypn.com to fill out the online membership application. In the “referred by” section of the application, make sure they put your name. If they don’t include your name on their application, you won’t get the credit.

For every new member you refer, your name will be entered for weekly prize drawings. The more people you refer, the better

chance you have to win. At the end of the drive, the top three recruiters will each win $100. Winners will be announced weekly via email with the top three winners unveiled in the April issue of Chamber News.

YPN membership is open to individuals between the ages of 21-39. Members come from a variety of backgrounds and professions. For more information, contact YPN Manager Lauren Fosheim at (605) 373-2009 or lfosheim@siouxfalls.com.

Community ed catalog now available The Sioux Falls School District Community Education catalog for 2015 is now available.

individuals by providing positive experiences and learning opportunities. Courses are available for a variety of ages and interests.

Classes vary from guitar lessons to scuba diving and everything in between.

The Community Education mission is to improve community life and the lives of

To receive a catalog or to register for classes, go to https://commed/sf.k12.sd.us or call (605) 367-7999.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 39

Visitor Industry Updates 2015 TRAVEL BEGINS FOR CVB SALES TEAM

In the weeks ahead the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) sales team will be busy selling Sioux Falls at several industry shows. Travel begins with the American Bus Association (ABA) Marketplace Jan. 10-13 in St. Louis. Pre-set, one-on-one appointments will be held with operators from around the U.S. and Canada to encourage them to include Sioux Falls in their next bus tour.

On Jan. 20-22 the CVB will be attending the Association of Chief Executive for Sports (ACES) Winter Conference in Reno, Nev., as well as the 2015 Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Pierre. The following week, Jan. 27-30, the CVB will be represented at the 2015 EMERGE Conference in Birmingham, Ala. This religious conference, produced by Religious Conference Management Association’s (RCMA), offers a hybrid expo experience with both one-on-one appointments and a traditional tradeshow environment to network with planners and pursue new bookings for Sioux Falls.

Leading into February, the sales team will travel to Dallas Feb. 2-4 for the 2015 MEET Mid-America Conference put on by Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI).

The sales team will attend Select Traveler in Nashville Feb. 8-10.

The CVB did not attend either show last year and anticipates the new sales opportunities both shows offer.

Contact the Sioux Falls CVB sales team if you belong to a national organization or association you would like to bring to Sioux Falls.

Contact the CVB at sales@siouxfalls.com.

NATIONAL TENNIS TOURNAMENT COMING TO SIOUX FALLS

Sioux Falls will host the 2015 National Public Parks Tennis Tournament. This tournament will showcase more than 250 youth and adult amateur players from around the nation. The event will run July 23-26.

The tournament is part of the National Public Parks Tournaments and includes some of the best amateur tennis players around the country.

CVB TO ATTEND NEW SPORTS SHOW

The Association of Chief Executives for Sports (ACES) will hold its second Winter Conference Jan. 20-23, 2015 in Reno, Nev., and the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) will attend for the first time.

ACES is a trade association comprised exclusively of CEOs of the U.S. national governing bodies (NGBs). There are currently 62 members of ACES — all 46 U.S. Olympic sports are members along with organizations such as Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, USA Football, Masters Swimming and Orienteering, to name a few.

The association was formed in 2000 to support and enhance the business interests of non-profit member sport organizations and to share best practices and promote professional development to formulate a collective voice on common issues in the sports industry.

The Sioux Falls CVB is part of the ACES Concierge Program, created three years ago for preferred member cities with the goal to provide information and access to key decision makers.

40 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

Summit League Commissioner Tom Douple spoke at the press conference announcing Sioux Falls as one of the host sites for the 2016 Division I Women’s Regional Finals. Also pictured are Sioux Falls Sports Authority Board Chair Kevin Lampe, Sanford Health, and CVB Executive Director Teri Schmidt.

DIVISION I WOMEN’S REGIONAL BASKETBALL COMING TO SIOUX FALLS IN 2016

NCAA officials selected Sioux Falls to host the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Regional in 2016.

“We are honored to have been selected as a host and are thrilled to bring March Madness to the city of Sioux Falls and the state of South Dakota,” said Wes Hall, Executive Director of the Sioux Falls Sports Authority. “We want to thank the NCAA for this great opportunity and we look forward to being a part of the Division I Women’s Basketball Championship and the Road to the Final Four.”

The Sioux Falls Sports Authority submitted three bids in October 2014 to host a regional round of the NCAA Division I NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship in 2016, 2017 and 2018. The state-of-the-art Denny Sanford PREMIER Center will host the event.

CVB TO ATTEND PHEASANT FEST AND QUAIL CLASSIC

For the fourth consecutive year, the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) will promote Sioux Falls at the 2015 Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic, to be held Feb. 20-22 in Des Moines, Iowa.

The annual Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic focuses on wildlife conservation, upland game bird hunting, sport dogs and wildlife habitat management and restoration. Seminars on habitat improvement, hunting, shooting sports, wild game cooking, dog training and conservation prove Pheasant Fest to be the nation’s largest event for upland hunters, sport dog owners, farmers and wildlife habitat conservationists.

The tradeshow floor will feature approximately 360 booths on the main floor and another 150 with the Wild Game Cooking Stage and the Youth Village. The last time this event was held in Iowa, more than 24,000 attended the three-day show.

The Sioux Falls CVB team will promote Sioux Falls as the gateway into South Dakota and the hub to pheasant country. Sioux Falls will have a booth in the South Dakota Pavilion, organized by the South Dakota Department of Tourism, and will provide information on things to do, places to stay and where to gear up for pre- and posthunting trips.

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.

Beef Bucks, Inc.

beefbucks.org Beef Bucks, Inc. is a non-profit organization that works to promote the beef industry and educate the consumer. L to R: Eileen Moller, Corey Weide, Anita Wetsch, Larry Ayres, Carrie Dragt, JoAnne Hillman (president), Bob Montross, Dana Dykhouse, Judy Blindauer, Nancy Montross and Jim Woster.

Century Business Products, Inc.

cbpinc.biz Century Business Products, Inc. celebrated 30 years of service to Sioux Falls and the surrounding communities. L to R: Aaron Gerdes, Kyle Ruhland, Nathan Stallinga, Corey Weide, Kevin Jergenson (owner), Jessica Nelson, Karen Noonan and Brett Gildemester.

Dakota Pointe Apartments, LLC

3220 S. WESTERN AVE. yourrentalsolution.com Dakota Pointe Apartments, LLC is a brandnew project offering one- and two-bedroom apartment homes. L to R: Stephen Rueber, Ashley Dunham, Ryan Rients, Scott Erickson, Duane Noerenberg, Paul Bruflat, Rick Rysavy, Jim Dunham (partner), Erik Meyer, Christie Aberson, Corey Weide, Mayor Mike Huether and Randy Brenner.

Express Employment Professionals

434 S. Kiwanis Ave., Ste. 2 Express Employment Professionals is one of the largest and highest-rated, full-service staffing agencies. L to R: Corey Weide, Kara Gilbert, Larry Ayres, Isis Miller, Pam Leafgreen, Gary Leafgreen, Rich Leafgreen, Lydia (Mickie) Leafgreen, Jordin Leafgreen, Julie Darrington, Suzie Folkerts and Amanda Norton.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 43

RIBBON CUTTINGS Face It TOGETHER Sioux Falls

5020 S. TENNIS LN. #4 faceitsiouxfalls.org Face It TOGETHER Sioux Falls is a nonprofit community addiction management organization working to solve drug and alcohol addiction in Sioux Falls and the surrounding communities.

L to R: Shelly Berg, Amy O’Connor Hoback, Sue Unzelman, Corey Weide, Julie Schoolmeister (executive director), Paul Bruflat, Mel Harrington, Cecelia Carland, Joey Rotert, Terri Brown and Dave Jansa.

Family Dentistry of Sioux Falls

2701 S. MINNESOTA AVE. #3 familydentistrysf.com Family Dentistry of Sioux Falls sees patients of all ages. They are excited to be in their new location in the Lewis Square building and to add Dr. Jonathan Held to the staff. L to R: Matt Sage, Julie Nelson, Dean Karsky, Dr. Jonathan Held, Nathan Stallinga, Dr. Kari Bolen (president), Corey Weide and Justin Bolen.

Half Baked

120 S. PHILLIPS AVE. gethalfbaked.com Half Baked is devoted to bringing smiles and joy to this community with the help of cupcakes and coffee. L to R: Emily Knight, Nathan Stallinga, Stuart Daniel (vice president), Suzie Folkerts, Katie Knight (owner/president), Liz Lloyd, Anita Wetsch, Maggie Groteluschen and April Loffman.

Home 2 Suites By Hilton

1120 S. GRANGE AVE. siouxfalls.home2suites.com Home 2 Suites By Hilton offers 80 suites for members of the Sioux Falls community and is connected via a climate-controlled walkway to Sanford Health. L to R: Tim Gefoh, Matt Morrisey, Lynelle Dick, Corey Weide, John Henkhaus, Lucas Dannenbring (GM), Kelly Grovijahn, Dan Johnson, Lauris Molbert (CEO, TMI Hospitality), Doug Dobmeier, Jolene Matheson and Rick Larson.

Ice Sports Association (ISA) – SCHEELS IcePlex

4300 N. BOBHALLA DR. icesportsassociation.org Ice Sports Association (ISA) is a non-profit corporation founded in 2009 to promote the benefits of all ice-based recreational activities and is excited about the new SCHEELS IcePlex. L to R: Corey Weide, Dean Karsky, Ben Graham, Jeremy Roenick, Joe Zueger, Sue Salter, Jack O’Callahan, Greg Starns, Mayor Mike Huether, Garth Caselli and Mike Begeman.

44 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

RIBBON CUTTINGS Kaladi’s Coffee Legend & Bistro

1716 S. MINNESOTA AVE. kaladisbistro.com Kaladi’s Coffee Legend & Bistro, under new ownership, is a locally owned full-service restaurant. L to R: Nadia Boadwine (co-owner), Amy O’Connor Hoback, Mark Gillespie (co-owner), Nathan Stallinga, Kaila Gillespie (co-owner), Ruth Christopherson, Chris Filsinger, Bill Rezac and Corey Boadwine (co-owner).

Marco, Inc.

4001 N. LEWIS AVE. marconet.com Marco, Inc. is a technology company that specializes in voice, video, data and print for any size company. L to R: Mike Grove, Corey Weide, Julie Nelson, Dr. Dave Kapaska, Dustin Bonn, Gary Weckwerth (regional sales director), Rick Rysavy, Jen Rothenbuehler and Jeff Douglas.

N2 Publishing-Sioux Falls

n2pub.com N2 Publishing-Sioux Falls’ goal is turning neighborhoods into communities with their publications. L to R: Ava Gross, Gita Hendricks, Betty Oldenkamp, Grace Gross, Mindy Gross, Garrett Gross (area director), Amy O’Connor Hobback, Jay Soukup and Elyse Gross.

Net Profit Marketing

220 S. PHILLIPS AVE., STE. 108 netprofitmarketing.com Net Profit Marketing, a digital marketing firm, has opened a new office in downtown Sioux Falls.

L to R: Jaime Hill, Keith Severson, Larry Ayres, Jared Pomranky (president), Holli Charbonneau, Lynda Billars and Karen Noonan.

Pizza Man

2417 E. 10TH ST. pizzamanpizzas.com Pizza Man is a family-owned business and opened a second Sioux Falls location. L to R: Jensena Peterson, Corey Weide, Dan Doyle, Ryan Peterson, Maricela Peterson (owner), Jay Huizenga, Dave Stadheim, David Johnson and Daniel Peterson.

46 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

RIBBON CUTTINGS RDI

rdiworks.com RDI was established in 1984 and continues to raise the bar on providing solid, integrated computer network engineering and solutions for a variety of customer types. L to R: Anthony Clark, Corey Weide, Rick Rysavy, Tricia Santos, Matt Sage, Aaron Pixlar (business development manager), Rick Hannam (sales manager), Nathan Stallinga, Suzie Folkerts and Ryan Poutre.

Red Arbor Tattoos & Fine Art

6232 S. PINNACLE PL. #204 redarborllc.com Red Arbor Tattoos & Fine Art specializes in professional fine art for your body or your walls.

L to R: Michelle Macias, Daren Anderson, Cory Claussen (owner/artist), Jay Soukup, Tawni Claussen (owner/artist), Corey Weide, Dean Karsky and Sonya Bernardino.

Sioux Falls Diversity Council

1000 N. WEST AVE., #225 sfdiversitycouncil.org Sioux Falls Diversity Council is focused on addressing diversity and inclusion in the workplace and the community. L to R: SMSgt. Mike Clauson, Roger Williams, Moses Tut, Stephanie Altamirano, Maj. Gen. Timothy Reisch (Adjutant General, South Dakota National Guard), Evan Nolte, Juan Bonilla (president), Corey Weide, Dr. Daniel Obaka, Aaron Clayton, Lynda Billars, Maddie Gutierrez, Gita Hendricks and Alex Ramirez.

Vintage Occasions Limo Service

facebook.com/vintageoccasionslimo Vintage Occasions Limo Service will turn any special occasion into a vintage experience by providing professional and exceptional chauffeured service in their 1949 Cadillac Series 75 Limousine. L to R: Timothy Schroeder, Corey Weide, Dan Doyle, Dr. Dave Kapaska, Joy Schroeder (co-owner), Nancy Weber-Sweere, Brad Schroeder (co-owner), Jessica Nelson, Justin Schroeder and Marissa Schroeder.

W. 12th Pourhouse and Kitchen

5213 W. 12th St. W. 12th Pourhouse and Kitchen is a fullservice, casual restaurant on the city’s west side. L to R: Tom Ivey, Betsy Homan, Corey Weide, Julie Nelson, Jason Walz (GM), Lyle Dabbert, Vinne Olson, Julie Darrington and Ryan VanMeekeren.

48 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

MEMBERSHIP

New Members AFLAC-Carla R. Lynn Affiliate-Insurance Carla R. Lynn, (605) 331-5567 3500 S. Phillips Ave. #101, 57105

All American Towing Towing-Automotive Ray Adamson, (605) 332-3100 1812 N. K Ave., 57104 siouxfallstowing.net

Argonne Trust Company, Inc. Financial Services JoAnn Dickerson, (605) 274-3336 4418 S. Technology Dr., 57106

Arrive Taxi Sara Wallinga, (605) 201-4401 2arrivesf.com

Bagel Boy Restaurants Lyle Gacke, (605) 336-8366 3200 E. 26th St., 57103

The Bakery LLC Consultants Brian Rand, (605) 310-4259 405 S. 3rd Ave. #300, 57103 thebakerysf.com

Burns Auto Sales Automobile Dealers-Used Larry Burns, (605) 336-9764 5500 E. Arrowhead Pkwy., 57110 burnsautosalessf.com

Carlson & Stewart Refrigeration, Inc. Refrigeration-Commercial Michael Martin, (605) 334-7900 700 Huron Rd., Marshall, MN, 56258 carlsonstewart.com

Clean Slate Group/CSG Media Graphics Eric Van Beek, (605) 366-5576 PO Box 1802, 57101 cleanslategroupus.com

Comrade Techology Computer Services Ross Wickman, (605) 610-9767 7701 W. Snapdragon St., 57106 comradetech.com

Craft & Associates Marketing/Advertising Terry Craft, (605) 334-9558 801 N. Elmwood Ave., 57104 craftwebdesign.com

Dakota’s Best Wine & Gift Food & Gifts Suzanne Murphy, (605) 362-2383 4001 W. 41st St., 57106

50 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

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.

Don Dunham III Real Estate-Anita Wetsch Affiliate-Real Estate Anita Wetsch, (605) 310-1481 200 N. Phillips Ave., Ste. 305, 57104 dondunham.com

Keller Williams Realty Sioux FallsTodd Headrick Affiliate-Real Estate Todd Headrick, (605) 359-5581 ToddHeadrick.com

Family Heritage

Krumvieda Construction, Inc.

Insurance David Marlette, (605) 690-6840 4301 W. 57th St., Ste. 121, 57108 familyheritagelife.com

Construction Gary Krumvieda, (605) 231-0844 7562 S. Grand Arbor Pl., 57108 krumviedaconst.com

Farm Bureau Financial Services

Lighthouse

Insurance Brady King, (605) 271-6300 4804 S. Minnesota Ave. #101, 57108

Lighting Fixtures Jeff Wagner, (605) 271-9386 3401 S. Kelley Ave., 57106 siouxfallslighthouse.com

Franklin Arts Art/Gift Gallery & Consultants Kyle Neuberger, (612) 875-5953 franklinarts.com

Hegg Realtors-Ryan Breitling Affiliate-Real Estate Ryan Breitling, (605) 929-2036 2804 E. 26th St., 57103 rbreitling.hegg.com

Hills of Rest Memorial Park Cemetery & Mausoleum

Little Tykes University Child Care Corri Poore, (605) 906-0363 720 S. Sycamore Ave., 57110

Lloyd Residential Group KWKate Christopulos Affiliate-Real Estate Kate Christopulos, (605) 231-0851 3130 W. 57th St. #108, 57108 lloydresidential.com

Cemeteries Dale Penning, (605) 338-6551 300 N. Chapel Hill Rd., 57103 HillsOfRest.com

M&S Aqua Imaging

ICAN, Inc.

Mini Movers

Marketing/Advertising Deb Nichols, (605) 679-4262 4320 S. Louise Ave., Ste. 201, 57106 icanadvertising.com

Moving & Storage Michelle Bratland, (605) 361-9363 7520 W. Legacy St., 57104 minimoversinc.com

Inside Out Inspections LLC dba Inspections By Jeff

Mitogenetics, LLC

Associate Member Melinda Franklin, (605) 408-3003 27197 SD Hwy. 115, Harrisburg, SD 57032

Home Inspection Jeff Wettlaufer, (605) 261-0133 inspectionsbyjeffsd.com

Pharmaceutical Nick Sershen, (605) 359-1615 2329 N. Career Ave. #316, 57107 mitogenetics.com

Interstates Control Systems

Northwestern Mutual-Dave Johnsen

Software Development Jeff Miller, (605) 988-0833 4701 W. Research Dr., 57107 interstates.com

Affiliate-Insurance Dave Johnsen, (605) 929-0045 6900 S. Lyncrest Pl., 57108 davejohnsen.nm.com

IRET Properties

NVision Hovercraft

Apartments Michelle Smith, (605) 362-1088 5101 S. Nevada Ave. #130, 57108 iret.com

Olive Garden Restaurants

JAYMAR Business Forms & Systems Jay Miller, (605) 357-0804 309 W. 14th St., 57104 e-jaymar.com

Recreation Reggie Poppenga & Lynda Billars, (605) 376-7932

Karissa J. Vander Waerdt, (605) 333-0290 3121 W. 41st St., 57105 olivegarden.com

Platinum Insurance Group, LLC Insurance Janelle Duthoy, (605) 271-4446 5809 S. Remington Pl., #107, 57108 platinuminsgrp.com

MEMBERSHIP

Precision Leadership Group Associate Member Lisa Te Slaa, (712) 441-3289 precisionleadershipgroup.com

Preferred Real Estate, LLC Real Estate John Egan, (605) 338-3954 409 E. 41st St., 57105 whatintheworlddoyouwant.com

Remuda Communications Marketing/Communication Melissa Ullerich, (605) 695-8350 PO Box 445, Hartford, SD 57033

South Dakota Department of Transportation-Sioux Falls Area Office

State Farm Insurance-Monte Fernandez Insurance Monte Fernandez, (605) 332-6155 4713 E. 26th St., 57110 statefarm.com

Taco Time Restaurants Sharon Vortherms, (605) 275-8463 4511 E. 26th St., 57110 tacotime.com

Tea Storm Chasers

Associate Member Rachel Laudenbach, (218) 346-8653 timecommunications.biz

Trident Trust Company (South Dakota) Inc. Trust Company Alice Rokahr 200 N. Phillips Ave., Ste. 301, 57104 tridenttrustsd.com

Valvoline Instant Oil Change

Associate Member Anthony Towne, (605) 498-6397 teastormchaser.org

Automobile-Oil Changes Pete Nelsen, (605) 321-9900 1700 W. 41st St., 57105 vioc.com

That’s a Wrap Custom Graphics

Wagner & Wilber Realtors

Associate Member Brooke White, (605) 367-5680 5316 W. 60th St. N., 57107

Graphics Aaron Arbogast, (605) 838-7322 thatsawrapcg.com

South Dakota Lions Foundation

The Vantis Team Keller Williams Commercial Sioux Falls-Mike Emery

Associate Member MJ Knobe, (605) 338-0551 800 N. West Ave., 57104 sdlions.org

Time Communications

Affiliate-Real Estate Mike Emery, (605) 215-0940 222 S. Main Ave., 57105 vantiscommercial.com

Real Estate Tiffany Wilber, (605) 359-6130 5915 S. Remington Pl., 57108 wagnerwilberteam.com

Zaroty Pizza Kitchen Restaurants Ted Hamzee, (605) 215-2529 3406 S. Marion Rd., 57106 zaroty.com

chambernews.com | Chamber News 51

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 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 MEMBERS

15 YEARS

Argus Leader Media/ Sioux Falls Business Journal

Envive

argusleader.com Member since 1907

Christopherson, Anderson, Paulson & Fideler, LLP

enviveonline.com

10 YEARS Ag United for South Dakota agunited.org

Jim Dunham & Associates jimdunhamassociates.com

Keller Williams Realty Sioux FallsAlex Jensen thejensenconnection.com

Keller Williams Realty Sioux FallsAmy Hendrix

capflaw.com Member since 1907

E & I Specialists, Inc.

amyhendrix.kwrealty.com

First PREMIER Bank

OFFICE Elements Group

Keller Williams Realty Sioux FallsJulie Bruflat

firstpremier.com Member since 1914

Henry Carlson Co.

officeelements.net

juliebruflatrealty.net

5 YEARS

henrycarlson.com Member since 1919

Brosz Engineering, Inc.

MidAmerican Energy Company

Edward Jones-Chance Stoeser

midamerican.com Member since 1907

Xcel Energy

xcelenergy.com Member since 1916

broszeng.com

edwardjones.com

Service First Federal Credit Union servicefirstfcu.org

Tax Consultants, Inc. taxconsultantsinc.net

YMCA siouxfallsymca.org Member since 1919

25 YEARS Alzheimer’s Association, South Dakota Chapter

Warren Window & Supply marvin.com

First-year members who reinvested during their November anniversary month:

alz.org

All Day Cafe & Goodnight Bar/Taphouse 41

American Red CrossEastern South Dakota

Baseball Seams Co. LLC

CCL Label

Commemorative Air ForceJoe Foss Squadron

redcross.org/sd/sioux-falls

ccllabel.com

The Glory House

alldaycafe.net

baseballseamsco.com

cafjoefoss.com

glory-house.org

Compassion Child Care

20 YEARS

DaVita, Inc.

Super 8 Motel super8.com

American Heart Association heart.org

PREMIER Bankcard firstpremier.com

Tony’s Catering Sylvan Learning Center sylvanlearning.com

compassionchildcare.com

davita.com

Dr. O’Connor & Associates, LLC droconnorassociates.com

Dr. Wayne Huber Hilton Garden Inn Downtown siouxfallsdowntown.hgi.com

IMED Mobility

imedmobility.com

Jensen Insurance, Inc. jensenagencyonline.com

52 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

Keller Williams Realty Sioux FallsSherry Knutson facebook.com/knutsonrealtykellerwilliams

Keller Williams Realty Sioux Falls-Tim Allex YourSiouxFallsHome.com

KT Consulting, Inc. kt-consulting.net

Lifetime Financial Solutions lifetimefs.net

Mimmack Real Estate

buyorsellsiouxfallshomes.com

Mount Pleasant Cemetery mtpleasantsf.com

Nordic Venture Partners nordicventurepartners.com

Northwest Tire Inc. nwtw.net

Rausch Brothers Monument Co. Sage Project Consultants, LLC sageprojectconsultants.com

Scooter’s Coffee Drive Thru Sioux Falls Interiors sf-interiors.com

Sioux Falls My Place Hotel myplacehotels.com

Tom Van Wyhe United Tent & Convention Inc. Vern Eide MotoPlex verneidemotoplex.com

Vitality Chiropractic vitalitydoctors.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 Phil DeGroot Phil DeGroot is a Senior Ag Banker for Home Federal Bank. Currently, he serves on the Executive Committee of the Chamber’s Ag Council, is a member of Sioux Empire Staters for State and is a member of First Presbyterian Church in Sioux Falls. He volunteers with Junior Achievement and is a Sunday School teacher. DeGroot is the Chair of the 2015 Sioux Empire Farm Show, which is sponsored by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce and will be held Jan. 27-31.

DESCRIBE SIOUX FALLS IN THREE WORDS. Young Vibrant Growing

WHAT IS ONE OF SIOUX FALLS’ BEST-KEPT SECRETS? Backyard Grill. I hope it isn’t a secret but they have the best barbecue in Sioux Falls.

PHIL DeGROOT Home Federal Bank

WHAT HAVE YOU OR YOUR EMPLOYER GAINED FROM BEING A CHAMBER MEMBER? Ability to get in front of the public and let people learn more about Home Federal Bank.

WHAT IS ONE NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION THAT YOU SUPPORT AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO YOU? I feel the amount of support the Sioux Empire United Way provides for so many different people throughout the Sioux Empire is invaluable and they ensure that the funds donated to them are used properly and efficiently.

WHEN YOU WERE A FRESHMAN IN HIGH SCHOOL, WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? A farmer. Farming can be a hard life sometimes but can also be one of the most rewarding lifestyles around. Not too many other careers give the opportunity to work with your family every day.

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.

Chamber celebrates ag for 62 years Each year in January since 1954, area agricultural producers and members of the Sioux Falls area business community gather to participate in a variety of events that highlight the importance of agriculture in the region. As a $17 billion industry in South Dakota, agriculture definitely impacts the Sioux Falls area economy. More than 30,000 people attend the Chamber-sponsored Sioux Empire Farm Show each year, with an estimated economic impact of $2.9 million.

The goals from that first Sioux Empire Farm Show were as follows: to develop a closer and more friendly and cooperative working relationship between the city of Sioux Falls and the agricultural area and agricultural interests of the Sioux Empire; to improve the quality of livestock and the efficiency of the livestock producer within the Sioux Empire area; to provide to farmers and stockmen educational programs and agricultural exhibits revealing new and improved technology for accomplishing the highest degree of farming and feedlot production efficiency; to achieve, through a close rural-urban working relationship, an upgraded agricultural economy, to a degree that would reflect favorably upon individual, business, industry and community prosperity.

The Sioux Empire Farm Show is one of several ag-related events hosted in Sioux Falls each year. It is hailed as one of the largest feeder steer shows in the nation. Six breeds of cattle will compete for the $12,000 Supreme Row purse, plus the show features the best regional market livestock shows and sales as well as plenty of commercial exhibits.

Since 1998, the Chamber has partnered with Midwest Shows, Inc., for the commercial exhibitor farm show events. Headquartered in Austin, Minn., Midwest Shows sells commercial exhibit space for the show; this year commercial exhibits will also be in the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center. The commercial exhibit portion of the two shows is called the “Sioux Falls Farm Show” and is a three-day show.

In addition to the numerous purebred and market shows that take place during the week, the Chamber also sponsors several special events: Supreme Row: The $12,000 Supreme Row competition is sponsored by the Tri-State Neighbor, Wells Fargo Bank South Dakota, N.A., and Campbell Supply Co. This competition is for purebred cattle. The purse is split between the buyer and the consignor of the animal that places at the top in this highly competitive best-of-all-breeds award of both the bulls and heifers. Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions: A prime rib dinner and auction and Sioux Falls Mayor Mike Huether make Sale of Champions a don’t-miss event. The Sioux Falls business community supports area producers by bidding on the best livestock from the Farm Show and paying a premium to the producers. The top market steers, market swine, market lambs and market goats are featured in this fun event. Last year $62,150 was raised, plus $18,000 for the Rancher Relief Fund.

The Sioux Empire Farm Show recognizes the many ways agriculture has impacted the economy, local citizens and the entire community.The success of the Farm Show is directly related to the efforts of several area businesses, individuals and producers who devote their time and talents — thanks to all for their efforts!

54 Chamber News | JANUARY 2015

Sioux Empire Farm Show images from the past, from top to bottom: A top steer is pictured from the 1970s. Commercial exhibits have long been a part of the show; this is from the 1970s when the show was held at the Sioux Falls Coliseum prior to the 1973 fire. A market pig in the sale ring circa 1960.