January/February 2024 Chamber News by Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce

Chamber News

Celebrating Agriculture Kirstein family named Farm Family of the Year Phil DeGroot named Agribusiness Citizen of the Year

Meeting the need Vol. 59, No. 3

A PUBLICATION OF THE GREATER SIOUX FALLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

January/February 2024

Community Appeals marks 70 years Sioux Empire Livestock Show to be held Jan. 23-28 of impact The Chamber’s Legislative Platform

Chamber News Publisher Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce

Chamber News Ad Sales For advertising information, call (605) 336-1620 or email chambernews@siouxfalls.com

The DeGroot family harvests corn on their farm in northwest Iowa.

In this issue REGULAR FEATURES Message from the Chair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Member Anniversaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

January/February 2024

Chamber News is published by the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce, 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200, Sioux Falls, SD 57104

Celebrating Agriculture

Event Calendars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11

Kirstein family named Farm Family of the Year

Economic Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

p. 25-27

Faces & Places. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-23 Community Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Phil DeGroot named Agribusiness Citizen of the Year

Business Sense. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-37

p. 28-29

Member Voice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Sioux Empire Livestock Show to be held

New Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Business Advocacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-34

Ribbon Cuttings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-45 Five Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Chamber News Layout/Design Jill Blom Chamber News Editor Jennie Doyen For editorial information, call (605) 336-1620

p. 30-31

Postmaster please send address changes to: Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 Phone: (605) 336-1620 Email: gsfcc@siouxfalls.com

Read online or find archived issues: issuu.com/siouxfallschamber chambernews.com FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA OR VISIT siouxfallschamber.com /siouxfallschamber Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce

On the Cover

@GreaterSFCC

The barn at Good Earth Farm, owned by Jeff and Nancy Kirstein. The Kirsteins are the 2024 Farm Family of the Year. Photo by Wendy Sweeter.

siouxfallschamber

2023-24 Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce leadership EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chair Scott Lawrence Lawrence & Schiller, Inc. Chair-Elect Miles Beacom PREMIER Bankcard Vice Chair Tamien Dysart Think 3D Solutions Treasurer Dr. José-Marie Griffiths Dakota State University Immediate Past Chair Paul Hanson Sanford Health Chamber President & CEO Jeff Griffin

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Joe Bunkers Gage Brothers Catherine Dekkenga JLG Architects Jason Herrboldt First Bank & Trust Derrick Larson Eide Bailly LLP Jeff Lautt POET Tim Meagher Vanguard Hospitality Matt Paulson MarketBeat Dr. Ronald Place Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center Ryan Punt SDN Communications Jacob Quasney Lloyd Companies

Nancy Savage Child’s Play Toys Vicki Stewart Employment Disability Resources Amy Stockberger Amy Stockberger Real Estate Selene Zamorano-Ochoa SD Hispanic Chamber of Commerce EX-OFFICIO

Jean Bender Minnehaha County Commission Kyle Groos Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools Tiffani Landeen Lincoln County Commission Dr. Jane Stavem Sioux Falls Public School System Mayor Paul TenHaken City of Sioux Falls

CHAMBER STAFF

Jeff Griffin President & CEO Jill Blom Graphics & Communications Manager Cory Buck Vice President of Finance & Accounting Jennie Doyen Vice President of Member Services Becky Griebel Administrative Assistant Brooke Hendrickx Agribusiness Manager Pat Lund Member Relations Manager Mike Lynch Program Director, Forward Sioux Falls

Jaci Pieters YPN Manager Holly Rader Vice President of Member Relations Mitch Rave Vice President of Public Policy Carly Reinders Member Services Specialist Teresa Schreier Events Coordinator Susan Seachris Administrative/Accounting Assistant Eric Siemers Sales Manager Aaron Vlasman Public Policy Manager

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 3

JANUARY-JUNE 2024

MIXERS MEMBERSHIP

We invite you and your employees to attend these upcoming Membership Mixers:

TUESDAY

4:30-6:30 p.m. McCrossan Boys Ranch 47135 260th St.

4:30-6:30 p.m. Montgomery’s 1725 W. 41st St.

4:30-6:30 p.m. Augustana University Midco Arena 2510 S. Grange Ave.

Jan. 9, 2024

Feb. 13, 2024

March 12, 2024

TUESDAY

4:30-6:30 p.m. Sanford Pentagon 2210 W. Pentagon Place

4:30-6:30 p.m. LifeScape 4100 S. Western Ave.

4:30-7 p.m. Best Western Plus Ramkota Exhibit Hall 3200 W. Maple St.

April 9, 2024

May 14, 2024

June 11, 2024

The Business Fair & Mixer features Chamber members showcasing their products and services. To reserve your booth, call (605) 373-2050 or email tschreier@siouxfalls.com.

24TH ANNUAL

Business Fair & Mixer COMPLIMENTARY HORS D’OEUVRES • BEVERAGES AVAILABLE $5 ADMISSION OR USE YOUR MIXER PASS

Message from the Chair It’s hard to believe 2024 is upon us. In many businesses, the change in the calendar sparks a status check on organizational goals and performance. Perhaps this is the time of year that you update your strategic plan. For the Chamber, a new year means a new session of the South Dakota Legislature is just around corner. Therefore, we review and update our Legislative Platform and prepare to represent our members in Pierre for the next few months. The Legislative Platform outlines issues that we intend to advocate upon during the session, and it includes issues that impact all of us every day. Business climate, economic development, transportation, housing, education and health care are just some of the topics spelled out in the platform. Working with state lawmakers in Pierre to advocate for our business environment and quality of life is a key focus of the Chamber, and one of the cornerstones of our very existence as an organization. The Chamber’s Public Policy team serves as the eyes, ears and voice for our members. As a Chamber member, if you have thoughts on issues before us, please reach out and share your perspective. Input is critical to understanding where our membership is at on an issue and how we can best advocate for the community. Another topic included in the Legislative Platform is agriculture. The history of Sioux Falls is rooted in agriculture, and it remains an important industry for us. In this issue of Chamber News, we spotlight the 2024 Farm Family of the Year and the 2024 Agribusiness Citizen of the Year. Through these profiles, you get a glimpse of the various ways that ag is thriving in South Dakota’s largest city.

Scott Lawrence

Lawrence & Schiller, Inc. 2023-24 Chair of the Board

The third week of January is the Sioux Empire Livestock Show. The event brings people from around the country to Sioux Falls to show, buy and sell livestock. One of the highlights of the week is Friday night’s Mayor’s Round-up & Sale of Champions. I must say from experience that it is one of the most rewarding events you can attend. Seeing a young producer’s pride in their animals is heartwarming, and the audience participation is rousing. If you have never been to an event at the Livestock Show, I strongly encourage you to check it out. Whether your interest is in agriculture or policy, the Chamber is always working on behalf of your business. That is one thing that will not change in 2024! Remember, Working in Concert, we can continue to make Sioux Falls America’s best place to live, work and play. Happy New Year!

Thank you Premium Sponsors

Thank you to the above members for supporting the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce by being premium sponsors of the Chamber News magazine. siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 5

Membership

Member Anniversaries Congratulations to these businesses that have achieved milestone anniversaries of their Chamber membership. These milestones represent a continued commitment to building our community through their investment in the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. Founding Members Argus Leader | LOCALiQ Publications argusleader.com Member since 1907

Christopherson, Anderson, Paulson & Fideler, LLP Attorneys capflaw.com Member since 1907

Coca-Cola Bottling Company Beverages-Wholesale chesterman.com Member since 1907

First PREMIER Bank Banks firstpremier.com Member since 1914

George Boom Funeral Home & On-Site Crematory Funeral & Cremation Services georgeboom.com Member since 1919

Getty Abstract & Title Company Title Companies getty-midwest.com Member since 1919

Henry Carlson Construction, LLC Contractors henrycarlson.com Member since 1919

MidAmerican Energy Company Energy midamerican.com Member since 1907

Minnehaha Country Club Golf Courses minnehahacc.com Member since 1907

Parker Transfer & Storage, Inc. Moving & Storage Services parkertransfer.com Member since 1924

Schoeneman’s Building Materials Center Building Materials schoenemans.com Member since 1907

6 Chamber News | January/February 2024

Shipley’s Garment Spa

First Dakota Title

Title Companies thetitleresourcenetwork.com

Helpline Center Associate Member helplinecenter.org

25 years

Dry Cleaners garmentspa.com Member since 1907

Evans Law, PC

Sioux Falls YMCA

McKeever, Inc.

Associate Member siouxfallsymca.org Member since 1919

Xcel Energy

Attorneys evanslaw-pc.com

Food Production/Distribution chipndalecoffee.com

20 years

Utilities xcelenergy.com Member since 1916

American Fence Company

75 years

CU Mortgage Direct, LLC

Sioux Falls VA Health Care System Hospitals siouxfalls.va.gov

70 years Runnings

Retail-Specialty runnings.com

Two Way Solutions, Inc. Telecommunications twowaysolutionsinc.com

65 years The Country Club of Sioux Falls Golf Courses ccsf.club

50 years Fryn’ Pan Office Restaurants frynpan.net

40 years

Landscape & Garden theamericanfencecompany.com

Mortgage Lending cumortgagedirect.com

NCM Associates dba Spader Business Management Business Consulting spader.com

Spartan ERV

Manufacturing & Production spartanerv.com

Waddell & Reed - Tom Carson Financial Services start.wradvisors.com

15 years Greenberg’s Jewelers Jewelry greenbergsjewelers.com

Pizza Ranch on 41st Street Restaurants pizzaranch.com

Grille 26, a Division of Vanguard Hospitality, Inc.

Dakota Diesel Service

Restaurants grille26.com

J.H. Larson Company

Advanced Certified Fundraising, LLC

Truck/Trailer Sales & Service dakotadieselservice.com

Electricians & Electrical Contractors jhlarson.com

35 years Border States Electric Supply Electricians & Electrical Contractors borderstateselectric.com

10 years Business Consulting brianbonde.com

Cain Ellsworth & Company, LLP Certified Public Accountants cainellsworth.com

Express Employment Professionals

Cresten Capital Holdings

Silverstar Car Wash

North Risk Partners

designArc Group LLC

South Dakota Urban Indian Health

Sioux Falls Psychological Services

Felsburg Holt & Ullevig

Ver Beek Law, Prof. LLC

South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame

Fleet Farm

Employment Agency expresspros.com/siouxfallssd/

Insurance & Benefits fiedlerins.com

Associate Member offermehope.com

Associate Member sdbbhof.com

5 years A.L.S. Properties Misty Glen Mobile Home Dealers

Absolute Productions, LLC Recreation & Amusement absoluteproductions.com

Aspen Arboriculture Solutions, LLC Business Consulting aspenarbo.com

Bernie R DeWald Associate Member

Financial Services cresten.com

Architecture designArcGroup.com

Engineering fhueng.com

Retail-Specialty fleetfarm.com

Lake Lorraine

Real Estate-Developer lakelorrainesiouxfalls.com

The Office of Congressman Dusty Johnson Associate Member dustyjohnson.house.gov

High Tone Hearing, LLC

Hearing Lori Miller, (605) 274-8663 4904 E. Rosa Parks Place, 57110 hightonehearing.com

Learning Ladder Adventures, LLC

Childcare Paul Johnson, (605) 667-5851 407 N. Spring Ave., 57104 learningladderadventures.com

Attorneys verbeeklaw.com

First year reinvestors CFO Systems LLC Business Consulting cfosystemsllc.com

County-Wide Protection Security Dispatch Carrier Agency LLC Security

Office Furniture pigottnet.com

Raker Rhodes Engineering Engineering rakerrhodes.com

These businesses and individuals have recently joined the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. We welcome them to Chamber membership and encourage you to do the same.

Associate Member Jill Baker, (605) 910-4045 P.O. Box 91543, 57109 sdvets.org

Associate Member sduih.org

Pigott

New Members Community Action for Veterans

Auto Wash & Detailing silverstarcarwashes.com

Mary Morgan & Associates Consulting Business Consulting Mary Morgan, (605) 595-5627 marymorganassociates.com

Nelson Insurance Agency

Insurance & Benefits Hunter Nelson, (605) 275-9700 2200 W. 49th St., Suite 100, 57105 nelsoninsurancesf.com

If you are interested in joining the Chamber, call us at (605) 336-1620. We’d love to add you to our list of members! Studio 616, LLC

Architecture Whitney Donohue, (605) 254-4768

Wohlenberg Ritzman & Co.

Certified Public Accountants Mollie Blaschko, (605) 665-4401 3600 Westport Ave., Suite 101, 57105 wrccpa.com

A complete list of Chamber members can be found in the Member Directory at siouxfallschamber.com siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 7

Chamber Event Calendar

JAN

16 TUE

FREE

For a current listing of all Chamber and YPN events, visit our website or read the weekly Quickly email from the Chamber. To register and pay for events, visit siouxfallschamber.com or siouxfallsypn.com.

FEATURED EVENT

TUE

OR USE YOUR MIXER PASS

Cherapa Link, 345 N. Reid Place

FREE

McCrossan Boys Ranch 47135 260th St. JAN

23-28 TUE-SUN

FREE

Chamber of Commerce, 200 N. Phillips Ave.

WED

Noon–1 p.m.

Join us for a conversation with Chamber Chair of the Board and Lawrence & Schiller, Inc.’s Partner and CEO, Scott Lawrence. He’ll share perspective and insight from his career and answer your questions. Lunch will be provided. Advance registration is required. JAN

YPN Morning Buzz

THU

tre Ministries, 900 W. 11th St.

FREE

7:30–9 a.m.

Join other YPN members for networking while getting your morning (coffee) buzz. Morningminded young professionals are invited to come enjoy coffee and conversation with other YPN members at Morning Buzz!

4–7 p.m.

Enjoy a fun panel hosted by YPNers Josh Muckenhirn, AIA of ISG, and Liz Stanton, AIA of Schemmer, and meet some of the talented design professionals featured in the “Say it Loud” exhibit. This Off the Clock includes a brief program and features a hosted reception with food and drink. Advance registration is required.

Sioux Empire Livestock Show W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds Expo Building, 100 N. Lyon Blvd.

Celebrate the impact of agriculture in the Sioux Empire! Livestock shows and sales take place throughout the week and commercial exhibits are open Wednesday and Thursday. For more information, visit siouxempirelivestockshow.com. JAN

YPN A Seat at the Table with Scott Lawrence

Start your day by making a new connection. Drop by for a cup of coffee and conversation with other members of the business community.

THU

SPONSORED BY:

FEB

YPN Off the Clock

$75

FEATURED EVENT

FEB

Noon–1 p.m.

Join us for a seat at the table with the Mayor of Sioux Falls, Paul TenHaken. Mayor TenHaken will share insights and perspectives gained through his career and public service. A Seat at the Table is reserved for YPN members only. Advance registration is required.

Noon–1 p.m.

Join us for a seat at the table with local businessman and developer, Jeff Scherschligt of Pendar Properties. A Seat at the Table is reserved for YPN members only. Advance registration is required. Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce @GreaterSFCC

/siouxfallschamber /siouxfallsypn

Sioux Falls Young Professionals Network

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 9

12-13

Sioux Falls Skyforce vs. Austin Spurs

12-14

To Kill A Mockingbird

Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Omaha Lancers

17-18

SD Ag Expo 2024

Live & Local presents: The Good Night Theatre Collective

19-20

Toughest Monster Truck Tour

19-20

Winter Downtown Crazy Days

19-21

Greater Sioux Falls Outdoor Show

SDSO: Mozart and More

A Night Out to benefit The Teddy Bear Den

Johnny Holm Band

MANIA - The ABBA Tribute

23-28

Sioux Empire Livestock Show

Downtown Burger Battle

24-26

Sioux Falls Farm Show

AI Skills Building Meetup at Startup Sioux Falls

5-6

Augustana Hockey vs. Minnesota State

Monstrous Little Theatre Company: Trifles & Natural Shocks

Sioux Falls Skyforce vs. Salt Lake City Stars

Ceili Dance at Old Courthouse Museum

Sioux Falls American Legion Post 15 Pancake Breakfast

Sioux Empire On Tap

Dueling Pianos at The District

Ice Fish Fest at Catfish Bay

11-12

Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Team USA NDTP

HR Risk Assessment Workshop

Nonprofit Exchange

Safety Leadership for Supervisors Workshop

Community Calendar Visit siouxfallsevents.com and experiencesiouxfalls.com/ events for details on the events listed here and more happening in the area. Planning an event? Let us help you promote it! Submit your event to siouxfallsevents.com. All events welcome – business workshops, retail events, entertainment, education and more.

January 1-31

10 Chamber News | January/February 2024

Sioux Falls Skyforce vs. Rio Grande Valley Vipers

16-17

Pretty Woman: The Musical

Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Tri-City Storm

16-17

Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Green Bay Gamblers

30 31

Nems and Mac Lethal at The District Disturbed: Take Back Your Life Tour

16-19

Jurassic Quest at W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds

The Starlets at Washington Pavilion

February

Dr. Jordan B Peterson: We Who Wrestle With God Tour

Sioux Falls Skyforce vs. Rio Grande Valley Vipers

Ceili Dance at Old Courthouse Museum

1-3

The Good Night Theatre Collective presents: Legendary Adventure

23-25

Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change’

2-3

Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Fargo Force

23-25

Sioux Empire Home Show

Pet Rock at The District

SDSO: Joyce Yang Plays Rachmaninoff

3-4

Sioux Falls Card Show

Celtic Angels Ireland at Washington Pavilion

Trendigital Summit 2024

Matt Rife at Washington Pavilion

Casey Donahew at The District

Trampled by Turtles at Washington Pavilion

9-10

Sioux Falls Skyforce vs. Rip City Remix

Bloody Mary Fest

March

SDSO: Revolution - The Music of the Beatles

Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Sioux City Musketeers

Sioux Falls Stampede vs. Lincoln Stars

Live & Local presents: Sioux Falls Chamber Music Collective

15-18

The Premiere Playhouse presents: The Premiere Premieres

Steel Panther at The District

1-2

Sioux Falls Snocross National

1-3

National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic

2-5

NSIC Basketball Tournament

In Her Shoes Empowerment Breakfast

All events are subject to change. Please check the online events calendars for the most recent updates.

end events

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 11

Economic Indicators

Economic Indicators Tracking trends in business is just one way that the Greater Sioux Falls 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.

Regional Unemployment Rates October 2023

City of Sioux Falls Building Permit Data November 2023 - cumulative year to date 2021

Bismarck

1.4%

6,912 permits

Fargo

1.5% Minneapolis/ St. Paul

10,894 permits

2022

2000

4000

6000

2.9%

Rapid City

7,053 permits

2023

2.1%

8000

10000

Sioux Falls

Rochester

2.2%

1.9%

12000

Cedar Rapids

3.6%

Source: City of Sioux Falls

Omaha

City of Sioux Falls Total Construction Value

2.6%

November 2023 - cumulative year to date

Des Moines

3.1%

Lincoln

2.2%

2000

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

Agriculture Trends

1500

October 2023

16 $1,845.0 million $1,145.4 million

$13.60

1000

$13.50

$13.20 $12.90

$1,056.1 million $575.1 million

500

$12.40 Soybeans

(per bushel) U.S. South Dakota

$1,015.3 million $408.0 million

(in millions)

$12.70

8 $6.49 2021

Source: City of Sioux Falls

2022

2023

Total Construction Value

New Non-Residential Construction Value

$6.40

$4.92

Sioux Falls Region Housing Overview

$5.21

November 2023

$4.93 $4.74 Corn

(per bushel)

New Listings

Days on Market Until Sale

Inventory of Homes for Sale

Median Sales Price

473

1,404

$313,175

Source: RASE (Realtor Association of the Sioux Empire)

U.S. South Dakota

October

2022

September

2023

October

2023

Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 13

Faces & Places

Kristin Hoefert-Redlinger Northwestern Mutual

Kayla Jarchow

BookYourBillboard.com

Jennifer Hoesing

Tyler Schulte

Girl ScoutsDakota Horizons

Plains Commerce Bank

Carol Woltjer

Nicole Garber

Family Visitation Center

PREMIER Bankcard

Recognition of Chamber Volunteers The Ambassador Committee promotes the Chamber and assists in bringing new members into the organization. The Diplomat Committee works to maintain membership strength in the Chamber and provide outstanding customer service to members. Their volunteer service helps to keep the Chamber strong. This month’s featured volunteers are Kristin Hoefert-Redlinger, Northwestern Mutual, seven years as an ambassador; Jennifer Hoesing, Girl Scouts-Dakota Horizons, two years as an ambassador; and Tyler Schulte, Plains Commerce Bank, one year as a diplomat.

The Ace Award is presented monthly to one ambassador recognizing their efforts to recruit and support new Chamber members. Kayla Jarchow, BookYourBillboard.com, received the ACE Award for December. The ambassador team of the month for December was Monica Huether, Peska Construction; Kayla Jarchow, BookYourBillboard.com; and Megan Kjose, Feeding South Dakota. The diplomat of the month for December was Carol Woltjer, Family Visitation Center. Nicole Garber, PREMIER Bankcard, was honored as the Event Champion.

Our volunteers are a key part of how we carry out our mission. Visit siouxfallschamber.com to find opportunities and ways to get involved in bettering our community. 14 Chamber News | January/February 2024

The diplomat team of the month for December was Team Garber: Captain Nicole Garber, PREMIER Bankcard; Carol Woltjer, Family Visitation Center; Curt Johnson, Showplace Cabinetry; Scott Hargens, Select Specialty Hospital - South Dakota; and Mychelle Garrigan, Firelink Digital Marketing LLC.

Chamber Mission As the leading Sioux Falls area business advocate, the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce represents its members by advancing and promoting the economic health and quality of life of the region.

Faces & Places

New Faces & Promotions Architect Justin Johnson has joined the Sioux Falls office of TSP, Inc. Johnson is a graduate of North Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in environmental design and a master’s degree in architecture. He has architectural experience in the retail, commercial, dining, civic, and healthcare industries. In recent years, he has specialized in healthcare project work across South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Principal® Financial Network of the Dakotas has hired Ryan Anderson, LUTCF as managing director. Anderson will work with the Dakotas’ financial professionals to help grow their existing practice while continuing to add financial professionals to the region. He has over 20 years of experience in the industry. EAPC Architects Engineers welcomed Jacob Abraham as an electrical engineer. Abraham holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Minnesota State University Mankato. Most recently, he worked as an for a top electrical and mechanical engineering contractor in Sioux Falls, focusing on distribution line design and analyses.

Parker Lawley, a mechanical engineer at EAPC Architects Engineers, has been promoted to Sioux Falls office manager. Lawley succeeds Shawn Crowley, who advanced to become the director of higher education. Lawley will continue his mechanical engineering work while taking on the day-to-day office management responsibilities. Lawrence & Schiller, Inc. has hired two new employees. Eliana Nordin joins the team as a digital specialist. She is experienced in digital marketing for the tourism and hospitality industries. Sara Waldner is the Account Supervisor, responsible for leading client relationships and strategy. Six employees of Lawrence & Schiller, Inc. were recently promoted. Harleigh Deville moves to a full-time team member as digital coordinator after starting with the agency as an intern. Dan Dismounts is promoted to senior art director. Alicia Dorris is promoted to media operations specialist. Brian Gebhart is promoted to account supervisor. Rachel Schwans is promoted to media specialist. Sydney Wood is promoted to digital specialist.

Justin Johnson

Ryan Anderson

Michelle Hentschel

Emily Johnson

Leadership Michelle Hentschel is the new chief financial officer at the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society. Hentschel has a wealth of non-profit finance and accounting experience and most recently served as the CFO at EmBe. KLJ Engineering LLC has promoted Emily Johnson to Chief People Officer, responsible for aligning key areas within the company to support the company’s growth and impact. Johnson has been with KLJ for nearly 14 years, holding various leadership roles

related to communications, marketing and engagement. As CPO, she will be responsible for human resources and talent acquisition, in addition to continuing her oversight of the company’s marketing and communications efforts. Johnson holds an Master of Business Administration degree and an MBA certificate in HR Management. Additionally, she earned her SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRMSCP) certification.

Share your news! Our members do more than follow the news. They make the news. Job promotions and hirings. New projects. New partnerships. Awards. Celebrate your employees, business accomplishments and more with Chamber News. Submit news to jdoyen@siouxfalls.com. siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 15

Faces & Places

Honors & Awards The U.S. Chamber of Sanford Health President Commerce Foundation & CEO Bill Gassen was recogselected Jeff Griffin, Presinized by Modern Healthcare dent & CEO of the Greater as one of the most influential Sioux Falls Chamber of people in healthcare. The Commerce, to participate program honors individuals in the ninth cohort of its who are deemed by their premiere business leadership peers to be the most influenprogram. The Business Leads tial individuals in the industry, Fellowship Program trains and in terms of leadership and Jeff Griffin equips leaders from state and impact. Gassen leads the local chambers of commerce, nation’s largest rural health economic development system, serving more than 1 agencies and trade associamillion patients and 200,000 tions. The program provides health plan members across resources, access to experts the upper Midwest. Gassen and a network of peers to was appointed to Sanford’s build leaders’ capacity to top position in 2020. address the most pressing Denny Sanford PREMIER education and workforce Center was recognized with challenges. Following a Bill Gassen two OnConferences Industry competitive application and Awards for 2023. The venue selection process, Griffin was selected was nominated in multiple categoalong with 34 other state and local ries and received an award for Top 50 chamber executives, economic develFinance Teams and Top 50 Information opment professionals, and association Security Teams. leaders.

EAPC Architects Engineers was recognized with the Merit Award in Architecture by the South Dakota chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). This honor, announced at the AIA South Dakota annual conference, acknowledges their excellence in the design of the Raven Precision Agriculture Center at South Dakota State University. Designed as a hub for collaborative research and education, the building’s sustainability efforts have also earned it a LEED Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

Good Deeds

Mergers and Acquisitions

Gordon Flesch Company, through its Charitable Foundation, awarded over $148,000 to 36 Midwestern charities providing key community services. In the Sioux Falls area, Gordon Flesch supported Furniture Mission of South Dakota in their mission of providing those in need with gently used furniture and household items free of charge. The Gordon Flesch Charitable Foundation is managed entirely by company associates, with local community organizations nominated and selected by associates.

Eide Bailly LLP, a national certified public accounting and business advisory firm, will acquire Sioux Falls-based High Plains Technology on Jan. 8, 2024. The deal brings four partners and 14 staff into Eide Bailly’s Sioux Falls and Fargo offices, complementing the national firm’s consulting, technology, accounting and business advisory services.

16 Chamber News | January/February 2024

Panther Premier Print Solutions acquired Advertising Arts on December 1, 2023. The merger pairs two industry

leaders with a shared commitment to exceptional service, quality and creativity. It allows Panther to expand the range of services offered to clients, including vehicle graphics, expanded sign offerings and promotional items. The acquisition will also lead to improved processes, efficiency and service levels. Panther will retain the existing staff of Advertising Arts and all services will transition to the current Panther facility in north central Sioux Falls.

Be Seen

The December Membership Mixer was hosted by Giving Hope, Inc. at their recently renovated facility on Burnside Avenue. Neil Hlebichuk welcomed guests, who enjoyed networking, refreshments and door prizes.

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 17

Faces & Places

Be Seen

Chamber members got a behindthe-scenes look at ARC Fabricators during the December Morning Mingle, hosted by OECS.

18 Chamber News | January/February 2024

Attendees at a recent Business Sense Workshop learned proven strategies for implementing flexible work into their business from Jade Delaney, Lemonly, and Natalie Eisenberg, Click Rain, Inc.

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Faces & Places

Be Seen

Young professionals hit the gym early on Dec. 14. Instead of weights, they lifted coffee cups while networking during YPN’s Morning Buzz at Origin Strength.

Announcing

A NEW PARTNER at Davenport Evans

Davenport, Evans, Hurwitz & Smith, LLP is pleased to announce that Ashley R. Brost has become a partner in the firm. Originally from Sioux Falls, Ashley Brost joined Davenport Evans in 2018. Ashley is a litigation attorney focused on commercial litigation with an emphasis in trust and estate litigation. She also has significant experience in personal injury litigation, appellate practice, criminal defense, and family law. In 2022, Ashley was presented with the Rising Star Award by the South Dakota [Civil] Defense Lawyers Association. Ashley is licensed to practice in South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, the United States District Court for the Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. Get to know Ashley Brost at www.davenportevans.com or contact her at abrost@dehs.com or 605-357-1292.

20 Chamber News | January/February 2024

DAVENPORT EVANS LAWYER

ASHLEY R. BROST

Davenport, Evans, Hurwitz & Smith, LLP (605) 336-2880 davenportevans.com

info@dehs.com 14th Street & Main Avenue

Chamber and business leaders met with Itai Biran, consul for political and commercial affairs at the Consul General of Israel to the Midwest, in December to discuss trade opportunities and related issues.

THIS COULD BE

YOUR PLACE. Visit one of our showrooms today! SIOUX FALLS: 804 S. Minnesota Ave. | 335.9600 HARRISBURG: 420 N. Cliff Ave. | 362.7220

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 21

Faces & Places

Be Seen

The Young Professionals Network held their annual holiday party – The Kringle – on Dec. 7 at Chef Dominique’s Catering & Banquet Facility. The festive event drew 175 young professionals to celebrate the season.

22 Chamber News | January/February 2024

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 23

Cover Story

Celebrating Agriculture Each year the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce Agribusiness Division recognizes a Farm Family of the Year and an Agribusiness Citizen(s) of the Year. A subcommittee of the Agribusiness Division nominates deserving families and agribusiness citizens to be considered for the award and the voting members of the Agribusiness Advisory Council select the recipients. The 2024 Farm Family of the Year is Jeff and Nancy Kirstein of Lennox, South Dakota. Phil DeGroot is the Agribusiness Citizen of the Year. Both the Kirsteins and DeGroot will be recognized at the Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions at the Sioux Empire Livestock Show and again at the Agribusiness Division Awards Banquet in the early summer. The Farm Family also shares their agriculture expertise by sitting on the Chamber’s Agribusiness Division Council for the year and sharing updates on their operation.

24 Chamber News | January/February 2024

Nancy and Jeff Kirstein of rural Lennox are the 2024 Farm Family of the Year. Photo by Wendy Sweeter.

Kirsteins named Farm Family of the Year By Wendy Sweeter For the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce

Searching for a sense of community, Jeff and Nancy Kirstein found it on a farm south of Lennox in 2011. The Kirsteins have been selected as the 2024 Farm Family of the Year by the Agribusiness Division of the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. Nancy grew up on a small dairy farm in northwest Iowa. Her family left the farm and moved to Minnesota briefly before moving to Sheldon, Iowa. After graduating from the University of South Dakota with a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s in curriculum and instruction, she taught English in Orange City, Iowa, and Harrisburg, South Dakota. Jeff was born in Oregon and his family moved around a lot before ending up in Madison, South Dakota. While he went to USD too, Jeff and Nancy didn’t meet until after he had graduated. He owned a small manufacturing company in Canton.

When Jeff sold his company, Nancy was working as the interim director at the Kirby Science Center in Sioux Falls. At the time, they were looking to make a big change. “We moved onto a sailboat. We sailed the boat from San Francisco down to Mexico,” she said. Their goal was to continue sailing but they encountered mechanical issues that marooned them in Mexico. After about a year on the boat or in Mexico, they were ready for a change again. “Jeff ’s parents were in Sioux Falls and mine were still in northwest Iowa, and we kind of realized while that life seemed dreamy and romantic, it was really transient and we were missing a community of people,” Nancy said. While living on a sailboat and in Mexico, the Kirsteins had discovered a way of living that included eating a lot of fresh food. When they moved back to South Dakota, they decided they wanted to start growing vegetables and offering that opportunity to others.

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 25

Cover Story

They found their farm near Lennox, moved in April 1, 2011, and planted their first crop that spring. They used a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) model and named it Good Earth Farm. “We started with a CSA. Up until this past year, we’ve done a CSA. It’s been really, really big and it’s been small,” Nancy said. Over the past year they have been transitioning into more agri-tourism and offering more on-farm garden sales. “With the CSA, you have to grow such a wide variety of stuff. This way, I can be a little more focused on certain things that the land is more suited for,” she said. While Nancy handles most of the day-to-day operations of the farm, Jeff tills the fields, helps with the animals and helps with their pizza nights in the summer. Jeff also runs the nonprofit Independent Electrical Contractors. Good Earth Farm’s barn, which was built in 1897, was one of the things that drew them to the place. “The barn was just beautiful even when it was dilapidated a little bit, it was still this gorgeous barn with a stone foundation,” Nancy said. By January 2020 it was time to make a decision on the barn - either fix it up or tear it down. The Kirstein decided to fix it up to turn it into the beauty it is today. They reroofed it, put new siding on and new floors. They put a floor over the dirt in the bottom and fixed part of the stone wall that was collapsing in one corner. The Kirsteins used some of the old siding to build the bar.

Nancy Kirstein greets one of the pigs on their farm. Good Earth Farm became a nonprofit animal sanctuary last year and is home to an assortment of farm animals. Photo by Wendy Sweeter.

“We decided to fix it and I’m really happy that we did. It turned out to be really beautiful,” Nancy stated. Besides growing garden vegetables and a pumpkin patch, Good Earth Farm also provides a home for farm animals. When they first moved out to the farm place, the Kirsteins had a miniature Dexter cow, T-Bone, and their dog, Buck, who passed away this year. T-Bone is still out in the pasture. “People just kept giving us animals. Now, because of that kind of demand, earlier this year we became a nonprofit animal sanctuary,” she said. The barn at Good Earth Farm was built in 1897. The Kirstein family restored it recently and now use it to host events. Photo by Wendy Sweeter.

26 Chamber News | January/February 2024

Besides T-Bone, they also have donkeys, pigs, goats, chickens, geese and cats. A deer named Pearl came to their farm as a fawn three years ago, but she passed away this year. “The farm that I grew up on, it reminds me a lot of this place. That’s the kind of energy that we wanted to create. We wanted people to be able to come out to a space and just relax and enjoy and get reconnected to the land because a lot of people don’t have that opportunity anymore,” Nancy said. “It’s been an evolution that’s for sure. When we moved out here in 2011, this was not the vision. But we just have to keep adapting to figure out what’s working and what isn’t and how it works together.” Part of the evolution was starting the season with an Easter egg hunt, then pizza nights in the summer and ending the season with pumpkins. The pizza started two summers ago on a whim when some friends were selling the pizza ovens. After deciding to take the leap and invest in the ovens, they really started focusing on offering pizza nights every Friday night and Sunday from Memorial Day through Labor Day this last year. They do all the pizza cooking outdoors. They grow a lot of their own ingredients and source the wheat from a farm by Freeman that is then milled at Millhouse Flour in Sioux Falls. “This past summer through our pizza nights, the feedback that we got from people was exactly the feedback we were hoping to get was that it was just a nice place to be. The kids can run, see the animals. You get a pizza and a beer and it’s all good,” Nancy said. Nancy went through the SDSU Extension AgritourismSD class. The two-year program is a cohort of about 20 people from all over South Dakota who are in different stages of their agritourism enterprise. “It’s been pivotal for me to see what the interest is and the demand and what that actually looks like,” Nancy said. As Good Earth Farm enters their 14th season, they have had many challenges, with the biggest being weather and water. The first year they were at the farm it flooded. This past year was really dry and it got dry early. With low water pressure, they couldn’t run the sprinkler. “I think farmers are far more adaptable because you have to be, otherwise you’re not going to be around so we kind of keep reinventing ourselves,” Nancy said. “Now heading into year 14, I think we maybe have all the puzzle pieces to fit together. We made a big investment into this piece of land, which is something we’re really proud of.”

The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce Sioux Empire Livestock Show is an annual celebration of the importance of agriculture in the region. Beginning in 1954, each January, agricultural producers and members of the Sioux Falls area business community gather to participate in a variety of events, from livestock shows and sales, to junior judging competitions and a trade show. As a $25.6 billion industry in South Dakota, agriculture directly impacts the economy of greater Sioux Falls. The success of the Livestock Show is directly related to the efforts of several area businesses, individuals and producers who devote their time and talents to the event. The Sioux Empire Livestock Show has an estimated economic impact of $3 million. The Sioux Empire Livestock Show is hailed as one of the largest and most competitive prospect calf show and breeding heifer show in the region. The show also features the best market livestock from across the country, plenty of commercial exhibits, and cattle sales. Four breeds of cattle will compete for the $12,000 Supreme Row purse in 2024. The $12,000 Supreme Row competition is sponsored by The First National Bank in Sioux Falls (gold), First Bank & Trust (silver) and The Cattle Business Weekly (bronze). This competition is for purebred cattle. The purse is split between the buyer and the consignor of the Supreme Champion Bull and The Supreme Champion Heifer. The purpose of the Sioux Empire Livestock Show is to strengthen the ties between the urban and agricultural communities, support livestock producers and exhibitors, provide educational programs and exhibits, and promote the importance of agriculture in our region.

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 27

Cover Story

Agribusiness Citizen of the Year Phil DeGroot Career: Ag banking team lead, The First National Bank in Sioux Falls Family: Wife, Jen; Son, Sam (15); Daughters, Sophie (14) and Sydney (11) Education: South Dakota State University Community roles: Sioux Empire Livestock Show, Stockyards Ag Experience board, South Dakota State University Association board, First Presbyterian Church youth group and kindergarten teacher

Phil DeGroot, an Ag Banker with The First National Bank in Sioux Falls, is the 2024 Agribusiness Citizen of the Year. Photo by Wendy Sweeter.

Phil DeGroot named Agribusiness Citizen of the Year Agribusiness Division of the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce has named Phil DeGroot as the 2024 Agribusiness Citizen of the Year.

what they need and what’s going on,” he said. “The collections background actually was really, really good. It’s not something in life anybody says, ‘I really want to be a collector,’ but having that background has really helped me in my career.”

Growing up on a dairy and hog farm in northwest Iowa, DeGroot thought he would return to the family farm after college. After graduating from South Dakota State University in 2003 with a degree in ag business and a minor in ag marketing, he did just that.

DeGroot transitioned to ag lending with Wells Fargo at the Stockyards when the Obama administration made changes to the student loan industry. Eventually he transferred to the bank’s branch in Beresford, where he served customers in the communities of Beresford, Irene and Viborg.

Nine months later, after reassessing the capital needs of the dairy barn, he took a job in student loan collections at Wells Fargo in Sioux Falls. While that was not the career he first had in mind, DeGroot credits his seven years in that position with equipping him for his future positions.

After Wells Fargo, DeGroot worked in ag lending at Home Federal Bank in Canton, Lennox and Crooks for about four years. In 2015, the ag banking manager at The First National Bank in Sioux Falls, Brian Gilbert, reached out to invite DeGroot to come work for them. He made the switch, and today DeGroot serves as an ag banking team lead in Sioux Falls.

By Wendy Sweeter For the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce

“If you want to learn how to talk to people, communicate with people, negotiate with people…get into collections. You will learn how to talk to people on a phone and understand

28 Chamber News | January/February 2024

His first involvement with the Chamber’s Agribusiness Division was in 2011 when he began attending monthly

Left: Phil DeGroot works on the family farm near Doon, Iowa. Photo courtesy DeGroot family. Below: Phil DeGroot makes announcements at the 2022 Sioux Empire Livestock Show swine show. Photo by Wendy Sweeter.

meetings. DeGroot volunteered at the Sioux Empire Livestock Show for the first time that year as well. He assisted with the swine show, not realizing at first that he would take over that show from previous chair Keith Goehring. “It was flying by the seat of my pants and now it’s a really fun week,” DeGroot said. He has since handed off the swine show chair duties to Austin Langemeier. Now DeGroot is in charge of the Sale of Champions, which occurs on Friday night. He also helps set up for the full livestock show on Monday. Many of DeGroot’s colleagues at The First National Bank in Sioux Falls also volunteer at the Sioux Empire Livestock Show. Team members clerk the Angus sale and the bank is a gold sponsor for the Supreme Row. DeGroot grew up participating in 4-H and FFA. He showed some dairy cattle and hogs from his family’s herd at the county fair but did not travel around showing animals. He sees the hard work the exhibitors put in every year during the livestock show.

DeGroot is excited about the addition of Woster Plaza at the Stockyards Ag Experience and what it will do for agriculture in Sioux Falls. “When that is built, that’s going to be huge for ag inside of Sioux Falls and showing all of these Sioux Falls kids what agriculture is really all about,” DeGroot said. “Abby (Bischoff ) does a good job of doing that right now, but when Woster Plaza’s completed, I think that’s going to be huge for agriculture inside of Sioux Falls just showing young kids where their food comes from and what farming is all about as opposed to what they hear on the news, which isn’t necessarily accurate.” DeGroot is a member of the South Dakota Ag & Rural Leadership Class XII. As he gets started in the two-year program, he is eager to meet new people and learn about agriculture around the state. “That’s exciting to meet other people in South Dakota.”

“You see all these young kids and their families. This is what they just do and this is their life and this is how they connect as families and it’s very important to them,” DeGroot said. “If it’s that important to them it needs to be important to us to put on a good show for them. I didn’t grow up in the show world, but you see how hard these kids are working. It’s exciting to see that and you want to put on the best show that you possibly can for them.” While he’s working full time as an ag banker, DeGroot still farms 150 acres in Iowa where he plants, sprays and combines. In addition to being active with the Chamber, DeGroot also serves on the Stockyards Ag Experience board of directors and the SDSU Alumni Association board.

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 29

Cover Story

The judge examines an entry in the market sheep show during the 2023 Sioux Empire Livestock Show.

Sioux Empire Livestock Show to be held Jan. 23-28 The Agribusiness Division of the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce organizes and hosts the Sioux Empire Livestock Show each January at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds. The 2024 show will kick off on Tuesday, Jan. 23 and run through Sunday, Jan. 28. Now in its 71st year, the show features more than 1,000 agricultural exhibits throughout the week of the annual event. People travel from around the country to buy and sell elite purebred cattle, watch the junior livestock shows and visit the trade show. The trade show is set up on the north side of the Expo Building and runs Wednesday and Thursday, Jan. 24-25. The event features exhibits ranging from agricultural products, animal supplies and agricultural services to western clothing boutiques, and home goods essentials. Attendees can visit with industry experts from across the Sioux Empire. All events associated with the Sioux Empire Livestock Show are free to attend. Whether you are returning to your agricultural roots or getting your first introduction to South Dakota’s largest industry, the Livestock Show is a fun way to support agriculture in our area. 30 Chamber News | January/February 2024

Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions

The Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions is the culmination of the Sioux Empire Livestock Show. Business leaders from across the community gather to show their support for the agriculture industry by participating in a dinner, livestock auction and silent auction benefiting youth exhibitors. The program features a presentation of the Supreme Champion bull and heifer from the week’s purebred shows, an auction of the top 25 market livestock and recognition of the 2024 Farm Family of the Year and the 2024 Agribusiness Citizen of the Year. In addition, a silent auction featuring items donated by local businesses will be held. All proceeds from the silent auction go to fund scholarships for youth exhibitors for future post-secondary endeavors. The Sale of Champions is a big incentive for youth exhibitors to attend the Sioux Empire Livestock Show. In 2023, more than $107,000 in premiums was paid out to 25 market livestock exhibitors. A successful Sale of Champions encourages these youth livestock exhibitors to return to the

Sioux Empire Livestock Show, as well as pursue a career in the agricultural industry. As a business, when you participate in the Sale of Champions, you demonstrate your support for agriculture. Buyers who participate in the Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions are paying a premium to the youth exhibitor. This means you are not purchasing the animal on which you are bidding, rather the dollar amount is in addition to the final market price they receive for their animal. Livestock premiums can be purchased by cooperative bidders to increase buying power. Partnering with another business is a great way to bump up the premiums for the youth exhibitors. Contact a member of the Chamber’s Agribusiness Division if you would like more information on how to partner.

Friday, Jan. 26 Expo Center (north side), W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds 5 p.m. Social | 6 p.m. Dinner 7 p.m. Program/Auction Cost: $550 for a table sponsor $400 for table of eight, $50 for single ticket RSVP at siouxfallschamber.com/events

Schedule of Events Tuesday, Jan. 23

Friday, Jan. 26

4 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Purebred Consignors Meeting

8 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Junior Prospect Calf Show

6 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-H/FFA Invitational Calf Show

5 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mayor’s Round-Up Social

Wednesday, Jan. 24 Trade Show, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 8 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Angus Show Hereford Show Simmental Show Charolais Show All Other Breeds (AOB) Show 1 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Angus Sale Hereford Sale Simmental Sale Charolais Sale All Other Breeds (AOB) Sale

6 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sale of Champions

Saturday, Jan. 27 10 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Junior Breeding Heifer Show

Sunday, Jan. 28 8 a.m. . . . . . . . . . Collegiate Livestock Judging Contest 1 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . 4-H/FFA Livestock Judging Contest Schedule subject to change

6 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Supreme Row Judging 6:30 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Supreme Row Social

Thursday, Jan. 25 Trade Show, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. 8 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Junior Market Hog Show 3 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Junior Market Beef Show 4 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Junior Market Goat Show 6 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Junior Market Lamb Show

W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds Expo Center siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 31

Business Advocacy

Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce 2024 Legislative Platform In order to develop its legislative platform, the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce (Chamber), through its Issues Management Council, conducts research, hears presentations and surveys its members about issues affecting business. These efforts, combined with actively following and monitoring legislative activity, guide our efforts toward developing the legislative platform. The Issues Management Council makes platform recommendations to the Board of Directors, which is the Chamber’s final policy decision-making body. Business Climate & Economic Development

The Chamber believes our economy is best served by allowing free and open competition in the marketplace in an environment that encourages business development and expansion. Laws that preclude or give an advantage to one business structure or arrangement over another ultimately lessen competition and reduce our area’s attractiveness as a business location. Appropriate rules and regulations may be required for a viable free market, but government intrusion should not inhibit or restrict business unnecessarily. The Chamber supports economic development with local, regional, and state programs including, but not limited to, the Revolving Economic Development and Initiative (REDI) Fund, the Future Fund, the Building South Dakota Fund, and Tax Increment Financing. The Chamber supports workforce-focused programs, addressing infrastructure and revolving fund loans, workforce, education housing, childcare, and grants to offset certain taxes for qualifying projects. We will continue to monitor the use and impact of these programs and we will closely analyze any legislation that impacts these programs and other economic development efforts in our state.

Transportation and Infrastructure

The Chamber recognizes that a safe, efficient, and responsive infrastructure is critical to economic development and commerce in greater Sioux Falls and throughout South Dakota. The Chamber supports the continued evaluation of our roads, bridge systems, air, rail, water, sewer, telecommunications, energy, public transit and public facilities on an ongoing basis. Current funding, including local flexibilities, should be carefully reviewed before new funding is considered.

Workforce Housing

The Chamber supports expanding workforce housing and support services for workforce development, retention and recruitment that is accessible for low and moderate-income individuals. The Chamber promotes innovative solutions that would make workforce housing more accessible. The Chamber continues to support the Housing Infrastructure Fund that is administered by the South Dakota Housing Authority.

32 Chamber News | January/February 2024

The State Budget

The Chamber supports a balanced budget even if it means making difficult decisions. Balancing the budget can be done in many ways and the Chamber supports creative solutions to addressing this issue. We continue to see no need for an income tax or major tax increases.

Education

The future of greater Sioux Falls and South Dakota depends on educating our residents and developing our workforce to remain competitive on a regional, national, and international scale. It is vital to foster an educational system that works in tandem with the business community and government to address and support quality education and workforce development initiatives. Quality education is essential for the business community to attract new employers and employees and to educate an increasingly diverse workforce. To support our state’s residents and to meet our workforce development needs, the Chamber supports the appropriate allocation of public monies to ensure funds for an equitable, effective, and efficient system of early childhood learning, K-12 education, and our post-secondary education systems. Early Childhood Learning: The Chamber encourages and supports efforts to provide quality and affordable early childhood education for all children in South Dakota, including Pre-Kindergarten. We support identifying strategies at the state, local, and federal levels to fund and implement these programs. The Chamber also supports increasing the efficiency and availability of early childhood learning programs, including public and private partnerships. K-12: The Chamber supports a quality and fully funded public education system. Fair compensation and benefits for our educators is also critical to retaining and attracting quality workforce in our public education system. We recognize some districts that are sparsely populated may require additional resources per student to ensure quality education. However, districts that choose to remain small, and may require additional financial subsidies in those instances, should be critically reviewed. We encourage the use of technology-based instruction to enhance access to master teachers and course topics that are not available in our smaller districts. We also discourage school districts from recruiting students with various incentives. The Chamber encourages increases in efficiency and innovation to continue to reflect the changing demographics of our K-12 students.

Post-Secondary Education: The Chamber recognizes that educated, well-trained, and skilled workers are critical to growing our workforce. We believe that supporting our post-secondary education systems, which includes the Regental and Technical Education systems, is imperative to continuing to educate our residents and supply our workforce needs. To retain our students, the Chamber encourages the expansion of scholarship funding, as well as, the use of recruitment and retention tools. This includes, but is not limited to, the needs-based Freedom Scholarship, Build Dakota Scholarship and South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship. We support adequate funding for our post-secondary education systems, and encourage continued consideration of funding options to address tuition cost and new student opportunities. Further, we encourage public and business input into our post-secondary education systems to better align its programs with the needs of residents and the business community.

Local Government

The Chamber is concerned about the current lack of resources available to our local governments to address behavioral and mental health, criminal justice costs, and infrastructure needs. We believe that collaborative partnerships and improved funding will benefit our local communities.

The Chamber supports the ability to permit local governments to impose a sales tax for community enhancement project purposes, provided there is an affirmative vote of the communities residents and the tax is tied to specific projects for a set period of time. We believe this type of local control proposal is the best way for a community to determine the need for such a tax, and measure the willingness of local voters to impose a tax in their community.

Health Care and Wellness

The Chamber recognizes the role the non-profit healthcare community plays in providing essential services to our most vulnerable residents and supports appropriate funding for them. We strongly encourage the state’s reimbursement rates to align with providers’ true costs associated with those essential services. The Chamber acknowledges the important contributions its medical institutions provide to our community and will give additional weight to their recommendations for public health and wellness policies. Community acknowledgment and commitment to wellness is an attribute of successful communities and can enhance the desirability for people and businesses to come here and stay here to work, live, and play. Legislative Platform continued on next page

40TH ANNUAL

SIOUX FALLS Day at the

LEGISLATURE WEDNESDAY, FEB. 21, 2024 Join us for this annual all-day trip to Pierre!

View committee meetings, observe session and join us for a luncheon in the Capitol rotunda. Visit with your elected officials to talk about issues important to you. Pricing includes: Ride the bus and attend lunch, $75; Provide own transportation, lunch is $30. For more information or to sponsor this event, contact Teresa: (605) 373-2050 or tschreier@siouxfalls.com.

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 33

Business Advocacy

Legislative Platform continued from previous page

Diversity and Inclusivity

The Chamber recognizes the growing diversity of our state’s population and we embrace the opportunities that this diversity provides for a culturally and talent-rich community. We will work with residents, our partners, community and state agencies and elected officials to develop efforts to engage and include all individuals in our state who seek to work side-by-side with us to grow our economy. This includes providing information and services that are more easily consumed by English Second Language residents in acknowledgment of our community’s demographic changes so all residents can participate in our workforce and our community. As we work to meet the workforce expectations evident today and predicted well into the future, legal immigration and refugee resettlement are proven and important strategies. We will also resist initiatives that inappropriately sanction or discriminate against individuals or groups.

Business Owner Rights

The Chamber opposes unnecessary intrusions into employer and employee relationships. This includes opposing policies that prevent a business from exercising their own financial interests or internal policies. We support voluntary agreements between management and the workforce establishing compensation, benefits, hours, and working conditions.

The Chamber also supports the employer’s ability to ensure a safe environment for employees and patrons. While the Chamber supports the right to gun ownership, we have also maintained that property and business owners have the right to restrict fire-arm possession on their property if they so choose, and will continue to support this position.

Tourism/Visitor Industry

The Chamber supports funding mechanisms for the visitor and tourism industry as it continues to be a vital part of the greater Sioux Falls and South Dakota economy. Funding mechanisms to support these efforts include, but are not limited to, the Business Improvement District (BID) tax and the tourism tax.

Initiative and Referendum

The Chamber believes that South Dakota’s longstanding tradition of allowing direct citizen access to the ballot through the initiative and referendum processes should remain. We encourage an ongoing review of the rules and requirements surrounding constitutional and statutory ballot measures.

Agribusiness Industry

Agriculture has been the primary economic driver in our state since 1889. The Chamber supports legislation that enhances agribusiness in South Dakota, including the expansion of agricultural products, services, and technologies.

Sports Wagering

The Chamber supports efforts by the legislature to permit sports gaming to occur within physical establishments located throughout the state. We support the concept that these establishments should be licensed to perform such activities.

Recreation Cannabis

While the Chamber opposes the legalization of cannabis for recreational use, should expansion occur, we encourage our elected officials to work prudently to implement the enacting law. Employer liability is a chief concern as there is no legal standard for determining when an employee is under the influence and when the employee is cognitively impaired. Additional employer concerns include workplace and patron safety, employer business insurance loss of coverage, and that cannabis remains an illegal substance at the federal level.

Environment

The Greater Sioux Falls 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 businesses and residents, should share responsibility for conserving, enhancing and protecting our natural resources. 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 seeking to improve the water quality in the Big Sioux and its tributaries should continue to be identified and implemented. To learn more about the Chamber’s advocacy for business, visit siouxfallschamber.com

34 Chamber News | January/February 2024

Community Appeals GREATER SIOUX FALLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Community Appeals Scheduled Fund Drives The purpose of the Community Appeals Committee is to qualify and provide orderly scheduling of capital fund drives to the business community. By vetting capital fund drives, the objective of Community Appeals is to affirm the project is a sound community investment and worthy of donor consideration. It is the intent of the Chamber to encourage every business to carefully consider such requests. However, we also acknowledge that many businesses have limited resources for capital fund drives, both in an ability to properly evaluate them and a sufficient budget to contribute. Our Community Appeals process is intended to provide our members with assurance that a Community Appeals campaign is worthy of investment.

Veterans Community Project

Nov. 1, 2023 - March 31, 2024 To build a village of 25 tiny homes for homeless veterans in the Sioux Falls area. A Village Center will also be constructed to facilitate behavioral/physical wellness, serving to link to other services.

LifeScape Hospital & School

April 1, 2024 - July 31, 2024 To construct a new campus to increase residential service capacity, specialty school capacity and outpatient services.

Butterfly House & Aquarium

Nov. 1, 2024 - March 31, 2025 To merge with the Great Plains Zoo and establish a visionary public aquarium and butterfly habitat.

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 35

Business Sense

Avoid these 10 costly payroll mistakes Navigating payroll intricacies is vital for organizations in Sioux Falls as they manage accounting and reporting, especially during year-end. Accurate documentation and precise withholding practices are key components for sustaining financial well-being in the community. While ensuring employees are paid accurately might seem straightforward, Kristina Meulebroeck payroll involves numerous complexities, Eide Bailly LLP and overlooking certain aspects can lead to significant problems. Eide Bailly compiled a list of the most common payroll mistakes we see organizations make and the potential costs associated with each.

1. Errors in employee information

Using an employee’s full legal name for reporting purposes is crucial. Mismatches between names on W-2s and Social Security cards can trigger no-match letters from the Social Security Administration. Incorrect Social Security numbers or addresses can lead to misapplication of funds, resulting in changes to W-2s and state unemployment returns. Failure to correct these errors promptly can result in a $50 penalty for each occurrence.

2. Incomplete new hire paperwork

When onboarding new hires, completing specific forms like W-4 and I-9 is essential for accurate payment and reporting to federal and state agencies. Failure to have copies of these forms can result in a $50 penalty for every incorrect W-2 form, along with valuable time spent correcting information through the SSA online portal.

3. Misclassification of employees

Differentiating between W-2 employees and 1099 contractors is critical. Misclassifying employees can lead to lost benefits, higher self-employment taxes for individuals, and financial repercussions for the organization, including back taxes, unemployment taxes, and penalties for misclassification at state and federal levels.

4. Lack of a documented plan for pre-tax deductions

Offering pre-tax deductions, such as health insurance or health savings accounts, without a documented plan in place can lead to significant penalties. If you’re a 2% or greater shareholder of an S Corporation, participating in a pre-tax plan is not allowed. Failing to maintain compliance may result in the loss of savings for both participants and employers.

36 Chamber News | January/February 2024

5. Incomplete reporting of taxable wages

An annual check of accounts payable can uncover checks written to employees outside of payroll, including cash bonuses or nonbusiness-related expenses. Failure to report all taxable wages can result in audits by federal or state agencies, requiring amendments to past returns and potentially costly penalties for both employer and employee.

6. Neglecting payroll software updates

Closely monitoring updates for accounting or payroll software is essential. Overlooking updates may lead to over/under-withholding issues, requiring time-consuming amendments to payroll returns and W-2 forms. Additionally, organizations may face explanations to employees and potential penalties for software-related errors.

7. Incorrect reporting of employee state

Understanding state requirements for employees who move or work in multiple states is crucial. Incorrect information on W-2s can upset employees during tax return filings, necessitating amendments to W-2 forms and affected state returns.

8. Misapplying tax payments to the wrong quarter

The timing of tax payments is important, as misapplying payments can result in over/underpayments and letters from the IRS. Correcting this error requires significant paperwork and time.

9. Incorrect time reporting

Maintaining a time and attendance system is vital for accurately documenting employee hours. Incorrect time reporting can lead to public scrutiny, loss of employee trust, and potential legal issues, particularly if overtime is not reported correctly.

10. Failure to reconcile payroll returns to the W-3

Ensuring federal and state forms align with W-3 taxable wages and tax withholdings is crucial. Discrepancies can result in notices to fix returns or W-2s, requiring time-consuming paperwork for both federal and state agencies.

Effective payroll management is essential for your organization’s financial well-being. By avoiding these common payroll mistakes and staying informed about ever-changing regulations, you can ensure accurate and timely payroll processes. Whether handling payroll in-house or outsourcing, prioritizing compliance and accuracy is key to success. If you need support, the experienced professionals at Eide Bailly possess extensive expertise in accounting and payroll, ensuring accurate documentation and reporting of payroll taxes. Kristina Meulebroeck is the Outsourced Payroll Senior Manager for Eide Bailly LLP. As a seasoned financial, payroll and human resource leader, Meulebroeck provides key insight and advising to business clients, helping them to streamline processes, develop policies, and work within regulations. A version of this article originally appeared on EideBailly.com.

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 37

Member Voice

Transforming our community through mentoring As a person with a passion for fostering meaningful connections, my journey through mentoring has been a testament to the transformative power of personal relationships. I was introduced to Sioux 52 and the initiative of advocating for increased mentoring across our community during my time as an employee of the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. Eager to contribute, I embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly and became involved in the Better Together program at Lutheran Social Services, which pairs individuals with senior citizens in the community. Kayla Huizing SoDak Stays

Mentoring extends far beyond the realm of personal gratification; it’s a catalyst for building a thriving, interconnected community.

My first mentee was Lou, a spirited 92-year-old lady who lived on her own in a mobile home. Our weekly meetings were more than just mentorship; they were moments of genuine connection and shared experiences. Our time together was spent sharing stories about our lives, discussing the latest happenings in the news, and just engaging in wholesome conversation. Lou didn’t have any family in the area, and our bond quickly became an anchor for her, just as much as it became a fulfilling experience for me.

January is National Mentoring Month Start 2024 by making a difference in our community! Learn about opportunities to become a mentor at Sioux52.org.

Two distinct memories stand out from our time together. The first was sharing a Thanksgiving meal together every year as she didn’t have anyone else to spend the holiday with. She always brought out her fine china and dressed up. I could tell it was a really big deal for her. The second was when I introduced my newborn son to Lou…and every time I brought him over after that. Witnessing her eyes light up when she saw him was a great reminder of the impact simple gestures can have on someone’s life. Unfortunately, Lou passed away a year and a half after our journey began. Visiting her in the hospital during her final days, she shared with me that our weekly encounters were some of the highlights of her life. In that moment, the realization struck me—mentoring isn’t just about sharing knowledge; it’s about the connection and impact it can foster. Transitioning from my role at the Chamber, I started a new venture, founding SoDak Stays, a business specializing in managing short-term rentals. Lou’s influence on my entrepreneurial journey cannot be overstated. Her life and our time together underscored the significance of personal connections, empathy, and understanding individual needs—pillars that now define the mission of my business. Mentoring, I believe, is a cornerstone for professionals in the business community. It equips us with essential skills—active listening, effective communication, and adaptability—all crucial for fostering robust client relationships and providing exceptional service. The experience with Lou taught me that mentoring extends far beyond the realm of personal gratification; it’s a catalyst for building a thriving, interconnected community. It’s an opportunity for seasoned professionals to guide and uplift emerging talents, contributing to the growth of a supportive business ecosystem. As I continue on my entrepreneurial journey, I am committed to advocating for the power of mentoring. Lou’s legacy serves as a constant reminder of the profound impact one can make through genuine connections and mentorship. In a world where success often measures in figures and milestones, let us not overlook the immeasurable value of human connection, empathy and the enduring impact of being a mentor. Kayla Huizing is the co-founder of SoDak Stays, and previously served as the Young Professionals Network Manager for the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. A Dordt University graduate, she enjoys outdoor activities with her husband Albert and their two children while continually pursuing new skills.

38 Chamber News | January/February 2024

PREMIUM SPONSORED CONTENT

Health Insurance for Small Employers: Group Plans vs. Stipends In today’s competitive market, health insurance is no longer just a “nice to have” benefit. It’s a “musthave” for employers to be able to attract qualified and competent employees. Yet offering health insurance is an investment – especially for small employers who must now offer higher wages to be competitive as well. “Employers have options and all those options can be confusing. It’s important to look at all the angles, get firm numbers and understand tax implications,” said Jordan Anderson, Vice President of Sales for Avera Health Plans. If you’re a small employer of less than 50 employees, your options fall into two general categories: • Small employer group health insurance • Providing a stipend or reimbursement for your employees to get their own individual or family coverage Small Employer Health Plans

You may think that “group” coverage involves dozens of employees. In South Dakota, two employees – even the owner plus one employee – can be a group. For small group plans, typically employers cover at least 50% of the premium for their employees. Small group insurance plans that are compliant with the Affordable Care Act cover 10 essential health benefits with no annual or lifetime coverage maximums. Differences in premium are based on the amount of the annual deductible, coinsurance and co-pays – basically the out-of-pocket costs that employees will experience. A plan that has a preferred or narrow network can have a reduced premium. Employees pay their premium share with pre-tax dollars. As an employer, you can rest assured that your participating employees have good coverage if they or family members have a major health care event. Small businesses can deduct premium costs from their business taxes and may be eligible for special small business health insurance tax credits. Businesses can set up a small group plan year around. “The employer share of premiums can be considered as one aspect of your expense of having a qualified employee, in addition to wages, payroll taxes, retirement and other benefits,” Anderson said. “If it results in an employee who feels taken care of and develops loyalty to your company, it’s well worth the investment.” Individual & Family Health Insurance Stipends and Reimbursements

Employees who do not have access to employer-sponsored health insurance coverage can go to healthcare.gov and purchase individual or family coverage. Employers can offer a stipend to help cover premium costs.

This is simply extra money in an employee’s pay, hopefully to cover health insurance premiums, however employees can spend it however they choose. You can’t require employees to spend it on health insurance, or to provide proof that they purchased a health insurance policy. A stipend is taxable income for the employee, and employers must also pay payroll taxes on the stipend. Employers can also look into setting up a qualified small employer health reimbursement arrangement (QSEHRA). This IRS-approved benefit allows small employers to offer a tax-free reimbursement to employees for their health insurance premium and other qualifying health expenses. There’s more administration and oversight for the employer. For example, employees pay their health insurance premium out of pocket, then submit proof of payment to be reimbursed. One favorable aspect of the stipend option is that employees can go to the federal Marketplace at healthcare.gov and choose whatever plan suits their needs. Since the stipend is not tied directly to the payment of health insurance premiums, employees may be eligible for a premium tax subsidy that could significantly reduce the premiums for Marketplace plans. Unless employees have a life-qualifying event like getting married, a change in employment or having a baby, they can only get coverage during annual open enrollment, which occurs at the end of the year though dates may vary. Talk to the Experts

Along with an insurance agent, it is important to talk to legal and tax advisors for your company. “Health insurance is a valuable investment for both employees and employers,” Anderson said. “A knowledgeable agent can sit down with you, help you weigh all the costs and benefits, and give you the information you need to make the best decision.” Learn more about your options by talking with your agent or going to AveraHealthPlans.com.

Ribbon Cuttings

The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce offers a ribbon cutting ceremony or member spotlight video for members to celebrate joining the Chamber, milestone anniversaries, expansions or remodels. The public and all Chamber members are invited to share in the celebration. Call (605) 336-1620 for more information or to schedule your event.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Midwest Realty 1120 E. 77th St. bhhs.com

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Midwest Realty has moved to a new location and celebrates its continued growth in the Sioux Empire. L to R: Lynda Billars, Cindi Johnson, Lorna Nielsen, Austin Nielsen, April Schulte, April Meyerink and Shelby Fielder. New Location

Comfort Inn & Suites Sanford Sports Complex 3900 N. Hercules Ave. choicehotels.com/comfort-inn

New Location

Comfort Inn & Suites opened a new “Rise and Shine” prototype hotel, a first-of-its-kind concept in the hospitality industry. L to R: Pete Middlested, James Gaspar, Jordan Huisman, Tammy Beintema, Scott Lawrence, Eric Seljeskog (owner), Ryder Wilson (general manager), Jason Cowan, Kauka Fortman and Stan Westland (owner).

Culligan Water Conditioning 1510 W. 51st St. siouxfallsculligan.com

Expansion

A full-service water treatment company, Culligan offers residential and commercial products in and around the Sioux Empire. They recently built a 8,000 square foot warehouse with two loading docks. L to R: Owen Connelly, Sophia Connelly, Blake Chesley, April Meyerink, Dr. Ronald Place, Alex Connelly (owner), Mandra Connelly, Capri Connelly, Mary Ellen Connelly and Paul Connelly.

Dunn Brothers Coffee West 8220 W. 12th St. dunnbrothers.com

Dunn Brothers Coffee West celebrated its first year in business at the new Firehouse 42 development in western Sioux Falls. L to R: Avery Baker, Amy O’Connor-Hoback, Jennifer Hoesing, Kim Ward (owner), Tammy Beintema, Amy Schofield (owner/general manager), Craig Fischer, Kaleyah Ward and Finley Christopherson. New Member

40 Chamber News | January/February 2024

Eide Bailly LLP

345 N. Reid Place, Suite 400 eidebailly.com

New Location

Eide Bailly is a top 25 CPA and business advisory firm in the nation and proudly serves clients across the country and internationally. The firm is the workplace of choice for 3,400 people and has offices in over 44 cities across 14 states and in India. L to R: Mandy Sutton, Geoff Knobloch, Cindi Johnson, Matt Zobel, Derrick Larson, Joe Bunkers, Jim Jarding, Jennifer Hoesing, Angie Hillestad and Julie Kafka.

EilersFurs, est. 1927

5005 S. Western Ave., Suite 140 eilersfurs.com EilersFurs, established in 1927, is under new ownership of a fourth generation furrier. L to R: Cason Fiala, Miles Beacom, Cindi Johnson, Karen Matthes, Brandy Ann Fiala (owner, April Meyerink, James Gaspar and Kristofferson Fiala.

New Member

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 41

Ribbon Cuttings High Tone Hearing 4904 E. Rosa Parks Place hightonehearing.com

High Tone Hearing is a women-owned, private practice audiology clinic in Sioux Falls. They serve a diverse audience catering to individuals of all ages and varying hearing needs. L to R: Josh Miller, Nichelle Lund, Lori Miller, Sarah Johnson, Kayla Jarchow, Jordan Huisman, Cindi Johnson and Allan Johnson. New Member

Hy-Vee

3000 S. Minnesota Ave. hyvee.com Hy-Vee on South Minnesota Avenue brings a new dining experience with the addition of Wahlburgers. L to R: Ken Cumberland, Brian Sittig, Chad Dyhrkop, Lucas Fiegen, Allison Courtney, Jeff Griffin, Megan Jung, [cardboard cutouts] and Shawn Bruzek. Expansion

42 Chamber News | January/February 2024

The Legacy Foundation 1000 N. West Ave., Suite 310 thelegacyfoundationsd.com

New Member

The Legacy Foundation’s mission is to serve medical providers and patient families in South Dakota to bridge gaps in healthcare. This is supported by three project pillars: Owen’s Outfitters, The Legacy Trip, and Hope Scholarships. L to R: James Gaspar, Christy Menning, Eleanor Turner (president & cofounder), Mike Turner, Jordan Huisman and Michelle Schimelpfenig.

LPI Loans

2700 W. 41st St., Suite 310 lpiloans.com LPI Loans offer small to medium-sized installment loans to help consumers with their financial needs. L to R: Skye Adams, Robert T. Farrar (owner), Matt Paulson, Sheri Wilford (president), Richelle De Stigter, Laycee Kluin, Kayla Jarchow, Christy Menning and Emily Degen. New Member

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 43

Ribbon Cuttings South Dakota Aerial & Arts 1200 E. 3rd St., Suite 113 sdaerialarts.com

South Dakota Aerial & Arts is Sioux Falls’s only aerial-focused fitness studio for individuals ages 8 through adult. They offer aerial silks, aerial hoop, flexibility classes and specialty workshops. L to R: Chris Coghlin, Melissa Dellman, Megan Jung, Katie Critzer, Ashley Premer, Amy Stockberger, Jennifer Hoesing and Kassie Holland. New Member

The Transformation Project 500 N. Western Ave. transformationprojectsd.org

New Location

44 Chamber News | January/February 2024

The newly opened Prism Community Center provides a space where LGBTQ2S+ individuals can find community, support and the resources they need to flourish. This 3,400 square-foot facility is home to Marty’s Closet, five staff offices, a boardroom and more. L to R: Maisy Kleinschmit, Eric Siemers, Susan Williams, Vicki Stewart, Kameron Nelson and Jack Fonder.

Unwind Bodywork, LLC 408 W. Lotta St., Suite 4 fallsunwind.com

Unwind Bodywork uses an integrative approach to pain relief, offering Thai and Swedish massage. Celebrating five years in business, they recently expanded their team. L to R: Cassidy Eidsness, Amy O’Connor-Hoback, Nathan Jones, Jay Soukup, Beth Petersen (owner), April Schulte and Tammy Beintema. New Member

Voyage Federal Credit Union 4420 W. Crossroads Place voyagefcu.org

Voyage Federal Credit Union has served the Sioux Falls community for nearly 85 years. It recently expanded its footprint to include 25 counties in four states. L to R: Gerry Heuer, Tammy Beintema, Craig Fischer, Emily Westrup, Jeff Schmidt (president/CEO), Jennifer Hoesing, Vicki Stewart and Tiffany Mutchler. New Location

siouxfallschamber.com | Chamber News 45

Five Questions

5questions with

Austin Luecke Austin Luecke is the volunteer Event Chair for the 2024 Sioux Empire Livestock Show. He joined the Chamber’s Agribusiness Division to network and engage in the community. Austin works as a financial officer with Farm Credit Services of America, and also supports others in their health and fitness goals through his role as co-owner and coach at Origin Strength. Austin and his wife, Kate, have three children, Emma (5), Levi (3) and Lottie (2).

is your favorite part of the Sioux Empire 1 What Livestock Show? The Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions! It is really fun to see the kids rewarded for all their hard work raising livestock. It takes a ton of effort and dedication to get those animals to that point, so it’s cool to see the smiles on their faces as the auction unfolds.

is one opportunity or challenge you 2 What see in today’s ag industry? I think producers today have an opportunity to be innovators and market disrupters. We live in an age of technology and advancement, and I believe the folks who can adopt those principles into their operations have a chance to be the market disrupters of the future.

3 How did you choose your profession?

I grew up in a small town (Groton, SD) and always admired and respected the farming industry. My dad was a teacher and in the summer he would help some family friends out on their farm. I loved tagging along and spending time on the farm and hoped someday I could do something ag-related. When the opportunity at FCSA came about, I knew this was a chance to combine my passion for finances with my desire to work with ag producers.

Austin Luecke, Farm Credit Services of America

do you like to spend a day off in 4 How Sioux Falls? It always starts with a workout at my gym, Origin Strength! After that, I love to do anything outdoors. Golfing, hunting, hiking or exploring are some of my favorite activities. Kate and I also enjoy chasing the kids to their activities and having movie, campfire and s’more nights!

is a skill that you’d like to learn 5 What and why? There are two that I am currently working on and they are at complete opposite ends of the spectrum. 1. I wish I knew more about cars/engines and could do more on my own. I’m trying to learn but still have a long way to go in that department. 2. I want to learn to make sourdough bread. I love homemade bread and really enjoy sourdoughs, so if anyone out there has some tips or tricks let me know.

Get to know more Chamber members online at chambernews.com 46 Chamber News | January/February 2024

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