Chamber News Vol. 53, No. 7
May 2018
A PUBLICATION OF THE SIOUX FALLS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
COMMUNITY HELPS CVB SELL SIOUX FALLS
IN THIS ISSUE COVER STORY
Community helps CVB sell Sioux Falls...............24-29 FEATURES
Leadership Sioux Falls graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-33 Sports fans flocked to Sioux Falls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-37 IN THIS ISSUE: Message from the Chair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Events Calendars. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9 Noteworthy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Economic Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Faces & Places. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-22 Community Appeals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Business Advocacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Headlines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-35 Chamber Partner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-37 Business News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Business Sense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-41 Using Your Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Ribbon Cuttings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43-46 New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Member Anniversaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Five Questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 From the Archive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
ON THE COVER
People enjoy free live music on the plaza of the Old Courthouse Museum in downtown Sioux Falls. Photo courtesy the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Chamber News PUBLISHER
Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce CHAMBER NEWS AD SALES
For advertising information, call Steven Herman at (605) 351-1960 or email chambernews@siouxfalls.com
CHAMBER NEWS LAYOUT/DESIGN JILL BLOM M.HECKEL DESIGN
CHAMBER NEWS EDITOR
JENNIE DOYEN For editorial information, call: (605) 336-1620 Chamber News is published by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 Postmaster please send address changes to: Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 1425, 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200, Sioux Falls, SD 57101-1425 Phone: (605) 336-1620 • Email: sfacc@siouxfalls.com
CHAMBER MISSION As the leading Sioux Falls area business advocate, the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce represents its members by advancing and promoting the economic health and quality of life of the region.
Communicate WITH THE
CHAMBER .com/siouxfallschamber @SFAreaChamber @SFAreaAdvocate Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce
Read online or find archived issues: issuu.com/siouxfallschamber
Thank you to the following members for supporting the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce by being premium sponsors of the Chamber News magazine.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 3
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MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
Message from the Chair
STEVE VAN BUSKIRK 2017-18 Chair of the Board
I am certain that our growing economy and vibrant community is attributable in part to our LSF graduates
At the packed and lively membership mixer hosted by Great Western Bank, I introduced myself to CJ from Fit Body Boot Camp and he asked me how he should get more involved at the Chamber. As I answered the question, I realized how overwhelming it may be to members when they are first presented with all the Chamber’s community initiatives, educational offerings and opportunities to network while growing your business. My suggestion to CJ was to review the upcoming events and pick out one or two areas of interest. Then, at that event, grab a staff person or veteran volunteer and discuss the options for increasing involvement in your area of interest. My own engagement started when I began attending lunch and learns to access some expert knowledge on HR, marketing and operations. Those positive experiences led me to apply for the Chamber’s premier leadership training, The Evan C. Nolte Leadership Sioux Falls program (LSF). LSF is a hallmark of the business community, and this month we congratulate 31 graduates from the 32nd LSF class who took time to learn about what makes our community great, the challenges we face and how they can have a positive impact. As a member of LSF Class 15 I was given a comprehensive look at our community. The program got me out of my real estate development world and into places that I probably never would have seen otherwise. A tour of the county jail, for example, gave me a new understanding of its important role in our community. I attended LSF with people who are now lifelong friends and I even got to know fellow classmate Mike Huether (you just never know who is going to be in your class). I am confident that all of the more than 900 graduates of the program have had similar experiences. The exact ROI on that training for our future leaders may be difficult to quantify, but I am certain that our growing economy and vibrant community is attributable in part to our LSF graduates. Our partners at the Sioux Falls Sports Authority have been busy! They hosted a record number of basketball games in March, and they did it with professionalism and poise. These events introduce our community to visitors and fill our stores, restaurants and hotels. So, a well-earned thank you to that team and the small army of volunteers who made it possible to put together another successful year of madness. We also need to give a heartfelt thank you to the CVB staff who pulled off a massive feat of coordination to successfully host Pheasant Fest. That win by our staff and dedicated volunteers grew our economy, our profile and our ability to host this or similar large events in the future. Sacrifices are often made by many to help our community and our country. Once again, the Chamber will host an Armed Forces Day program as a humble expression of our members’ gratitude to the hard-working men and women in the armed forces. We would not be the same country without them. As a chamber member you should be proud and pleased with the investment that you are making with your membership dollars. Your commitment makes Sioux Falls grow, and your business right alongside it. Thank you, members.
2017-18 SIOUX FALLS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEADERSHIP AND STAFF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR STEVE VAN BUSKIRK Van Buskirk Companies CHAIR-ELECT TIM STURDEVANT Sturdevant’s Auto Parts VICE CHAIR BOBBI THURY Legacy Law Firm, P.C. TREASURER DAN DOYLE Cutler Law Firm IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR DAVE KAPASKA, D.O. PRESIDENT/CEO JASON BALL Chamber of Commerce
EX-OFFICIO CINDY HEIBERGER Minnehaha County Commission KYLE GROOS Sioux Falls Catholic Schools MAYOR MIKE HUETHER City of Sioux Falls DR. BRIAN MAHER Superintendent, Sioux Falls Public School System KATE PARKER Sioux Falls School Board JIM SCHMIDT Lincoln County Commission
BOARD OF DIRECTORS WENDY BERGAN JDS Industries TOM BIEGLER Regency Hotel Management PAUL HANSON Sanford Health SHARON HASELHOFF Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort MIKE HAUCK Accord Commercial Real Estate, LLC RANDY KNECHT Journey Group LAURIE KNUTSON EmBe MARK MICKELSON Mickelson & Co. CHRISTY NICOLAISAN Multi-Cultural Center of Sioux Falls ALEX RAMIREZ USA Media TV KARLA SANTI Blend Interactive CLAIRE SANTOS Zoup! and Wingstop CARL WYNJA U.S. Bank CURT ZASKE Wells Fargo Bank
CHAMBER & CVB STAFF JASON BALL President/CEO THANE BARNIER Web Development & IT Manager MATT BARTHEL CVB Communications Manager JOAN BARTLING Finance & Accounting Director JUSTIN BENTAAS Public Affairs & Research Manager JILL BLOM Graphics & Communications Manager SHIRLEY BUSEMAN Receptionist RACHEL CRANE CVB Host City Manager ERIN DEWITT CVB Sales Manager JENNIE DOYEN Marketing & Communications Director ANNA ELIASON CVB Sales Manager AMY M. FARR Membership Sales & Retention Manager JEFF FEJFAR Web Designer
MARY HUBLOU CVB First Impressions Manager/Project Assistant KAYLA HUIZING Young Professionals Network Manager JAY KALTENBACH CVB Services/Resale Manager TAYLOR KLOSS CVB Sales Assistant ALEXANDRA LeBLANC CVB Sales Director PAT LUND Member Services Manager MIKE LYNCH Forward Sioux Falls Director of Investor Relations DEBORAH McISAAC Membership Director JILL NIEDRINGHAUS CVB Sales Manager WENDY NEUHARTH Membership Services Administrative Assistant KRISTA ORSACK CVB Director of Marketing DEBRA OWEN Public Policy Director KATHIE PUTHOFF CVB Administrative Assistant HOLLY RADER Agri-Business Division Manager EMILY SCHAFFER CVB Creative Development Manager TERI SCHMIDT CVB Executive Director TERESA SCHREIER Public Affairs & Communications Assistant SUSAN SEACHRIS Administrative/Accounting Assistant TATE STENSGAARD CVB Sales Manager JACKIE WENTWORTH CVB Sales Manager VALERIE WILLSON Membership Events Manager
chambernews.com | Chamber News 5
CALENDARS
CHAMBER
Events Calendar
Dates, times and locations are subject to change. For a current listing of all Chamber events, visit siouxfallschamber.com, read the weekly edition of Quickly, or call (605) 336-1620. You can register and pay for events online at siouxfallschamber.com.
FEATURED EVENTS MAY MEMBERSHIP
MIXER TUESDAY, MAY 8
4:30–6:30 p.m. Avera Prairie Center, 1000 E. 23rd St.
SPONSORED BY:
BUSINESS SENSE WORKSHOP THE DIGITAL STATE OF THE MIDWEST TUESDAY, MAY 1
Noon–1 p.m. Chamber of Commerce, 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200 DETAILS: A recent survey of people living in the upper Midwest reveals how we are using technology and what trends will shape the future of marketing. Presented by Chris Prendergast, Click Rain. COST: $10, bring your own lunch RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010
VISITOR INDUSTRY LUNCHEON TUESDAY, MAY 8
11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Sioux Falls Convention Center, 1201 N. West Ave. DETAILS: Celebrate the visitor industry at the annual luncheon.
Retired Lt. Gen. Russel L. Honoré, Commander of Joint Task Force Katrina & Global Preparedness Authority, will give the keynote address: “Don’t get stuck on stupid… Leadership in action.”
RSVP: visitsiouxfalls.com/luncheon or (605) 275-6060 COMPLIMENTARY HORS D’OEUVRES & CASH BAR $5 ADMISSION OR USE YOUR MIXER PASS
RSVP to vwillson@siouxfalls.com or at siouxfallschamber.com
CONNECTION POINTS TUESDAY, MAY 22
5–6 p.m. Chamber of Commerce 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200 DETAILS: Discover opportunities to volunteer with the Chamber when
you participate in this fast-paced, fun event. Connections Points will help you find ways to maximize your membership by getting more involved. RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010
2018 ARMED FORCES DAY CEREMONIES SATURDAY, MAY 19 • 10:30 A.M. SIOUX FALLS VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM, 2501 W. 22ND ST.
DETAILS: This annual event recognizes members of the armed forces for their service. Keynote speaker is Command Sergeant Major James Hoekman - South Dakota National Guard Senior Enlisted Leader/State Command. Sponsored by the Chamber’s Military & Veterans Affairs Committee.
COST: Free and open to the public. MORE INFORMATION: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010
GUBERNATORIAL DEBATE THURSDAY, MAY 31
7–8:30 p.m. Orpheum Theater, 315 N. Phillips Ave. DETAILS: A debate between the candidates vying for the Republican
nomination for South Dakota Governor. The debate is free and open to the public. Hosted by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Argus Leader Media and KSFY.
JUNE MEMBERSHIP MIXER & BUSINESS FAIR TUESDAY, JUNE 12
4:30–7 p.m. Sioux Falls Convention Center, 1201 N. West Ave. DETAILS: Sponsored by the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, this
Mixer features the 17th Annual Business Fair, which includes Chamber members displaying information about their business. Reserve your booth today — contact Valerie at vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010.
COST: $5 or use your Mixer Pass RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010
6 Chamber News | MAY 2018
UPCOMING EVENTS To RSVP to any of these events, email khuizing@siouxfalls.com or call (605) 373-2002. Visit siouxfallsypn.com for a full list of events.
SOCIAL ACTION TEAM MEETING TUESDAY, MAY 1 4–5 p.m. Chamber of Commerce 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200
DETAILS: The YPN Social Action Team focuses on social events that showcase our community while providing a positive environment for networking, socializing and developing connections. The Social Action Team meets the first Tuesday of the month at 4 p.m. and is open to any member looking to get more involved.
COST: Free to attend, open to everyone!
MORNING BUZZ WEDNESDAY, MAY 2
7:30–9 a.m. Camille’s Sidewalk Café, 1216 W. 41st St. DETAILS: Join us for Morning Buzz! Start your
morning off right by gathering with fellow young professionals over a cup of coffee. Bring a co-worker or friend!
COST: Free to attend, drinks/food on your own
LESSONS LEARNED & MEMORIES MADE WITH MAYOR MIKE HUETHER THURSDAY, MAY 3 Noon–1 p.m. City Hall, Commission Room 224 W. 9th St.
DETAILS: Mayor Mike Huether will share highlights of his eight years in office and lessons learned along the way!
COST: Free, bring your own lunch.
HEALTHCARE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS EXCLUSIVE EVENT WEDNESDAY, MAY 9
Noon–1 p.m. Chamber of Commerce 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200 DETAILS: This event is exclusively for young
professionals working in the healthcare industry. Dr. Dave Kapaska will lead a conversation around the growing needs of healthcare services in our area and the importance of young professionals in healthcare being involved in our community. Bring your questions! YPN members currently working in the healthcare industry are encouraged to attend and bring a co-worker or colleague.
COST: Free, lunch provided by Avera.
NEW MEMBER LUNCH: COWBOY CHICKEN THURSDAY, MAY 10
Noon–1 p.m. Cowboy Chicken, 2700 W. 41st St.
Find us on social media or visit siouxfallsypn.com
OFF THE CLOCK: HERITAGE BANK THURSDAY, MAY 17
4–7 p.m. Heritage Bank 140 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 101 DETAILS: We’re switching things up this
month and heading to Heritage Bank downtown for our monthly Off the Clock! Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, an open bar and door prizes compliments of Heritage Bank. This is an event you will not want to miss. Feel free to bring a co-worker or friend!
COST: Free
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS TOUR: SMITHFIELD FOODS WEDNESDAY, MAY 23 Noon–2 p.m. Smithfield Foods, 1400 N. Weber Ave. DETAILS: Back by popular demand, YPN
will be doing another tour of Smithfield Foods!
your first event to attend? Join us at Cowboy Chicken for a New Member Lunch! There’s no agenda, just lunch with other new members. Feel free to bring a co-worker or friend.
Smithfield Foods is a $15 billion global food company and the world’s largest pork processor and hog producer. Join us for a 2-hour tour of the Fresh and Packaged sides of the plant. This tour will require a lot of fast-paced walking and stairs. Spots are limited to the first 12 YPN Members that RSVP.
Cost: Free to attend, drinks/food on your own
COST: Free
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT ACTION TEAM MEETING WEDNESDAY, MAY 16
A SEAT AT THE TABLE WITH JOHN SWEDEEN WEDNESDAY, MAY 30
DETAILS: Are you new to YPN? Looking for
4–5 p.m. Chamber of Commerce 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200
DETAILS: The Civic Engagement Action
Team focuses on creating opportunities to educate YPN members on policy topics and current issues at both the state and local level. This team meets the third Wednesday of the month at 4 p.m. and is open to any member looking to get more involved.
COST: Free to attend, open to everyone!
Noon–1 p.m. The State Theatre, 316 S. Phillips Ave. DETAILS: We’re going offsite for this
month’s A Seat at the Table. John Swedeen is the President of the State Theatre Company, the former President of Starmark Cabinetry, a past Board Chair of the Sioux Falls YMCA and has actively supported nonprofit organizations in Sioux Falls for 20 years. His strong business resumé, philanthropic experience and passion for the State Theatre renovation project position him well to lead this important fundraising effort. A Seat at the Table is reserved for the first 25 YPN Members to RSVP.
COST: $10, includes lunch
chambernews.com | Chamber News 7
MAY 1
Opera Theatre at Augustana University
2-6
Into the Woods at USF
3
City Blossom
3-5
NSIC Softball Tournament
4
Leadercast Sioux Falls
4
First Friday in downtown Sioux Falls
4
Augustana University Spring Band Concert
4-5
KSFY Sport Expo
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.
5
10th Annual EmBe Community 5K
6
South Dakota Symphony Youth Orchestra Concert
7
The Augustana Choirs at Washington Pavilion
8
Free Family Fishing at Covell Lake
8
Visitor Industry Luncheon
The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau developed the visitor-related calendar to provide visitors a list of events they may be interested in attending.
9-12
NSIC Baseball Tournament
10
2018 Spirit of Volunteerism Awards Luncheon
11
Chris Young with Kane Brown & Morgan Evans
11
Breaking Benjamin at The District
11-13
Daniel Ohayon Memorial Invitational
12
Downtown Loft Tour
This calendar is a sampling of local events, concerts, fundraisers, seminars and more compiled from siouxfallsevents.com and visitsiouxfallsevents.com. Visit these websites for a complete listing of events happening in the Sioux Falls area, or for more details on the events listed here.
8 Chamber News | MAY 2018
12
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Falls Park
8-6
PorkPalooza at 8th & Railroad
12
Avera Race Against Breast Cancer
9
Festival of Cultures
12
Pink in the City Shopping Expo
9
Zac Brown Band at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center
12-13
Spring Parade of Homes
9-10
Siouxland Renaissance Festival
13
USF Masterworks Concert
10
6th Annual Paddling Fair
16
Shania Twain at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center
11 -15
Nordland Language Camp: Norwegian for Children
17
Summer Porch Series kickoff at Strawbale Winery
16
Cody Johnson at The District
18-20
South Dakota State Parks Open House and Free Fishing Weekend
16
Sioux Falls Pride
19-20
Spring Parade of Homes
22-23
605 Summer Classic
19-20
AMA Coin and Stamp Show
23
East Meets West at The District
23
Lamb of God at The District
23
Women’s Try-It Day at The Outdoor Campus
26
Honeywise at Remedy Brewing Company
26
The Flaming Lips at The District
30
Diplo at The District
26
Imagine Dragons at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center
JULY
JUNE 1
First Friday in downtown Sioux Falls
1
Animals on the Amphitheater
1
Downtown Block Party on the Eastbank
2
Moonlight Movies summer kickoff at Fawick Park
2
Sparkle Run at Strawbale Winery
7
First Friday in downtown Sioux Falls
7
Zippity Zoo Day
12-15
Hot Harley Nights
18
Hot Summer Nites 2018
20-21
Jazzfest 2018
28
Folk Off and Rib Challenge
Building Our Community Pride Bringing the ROAR of Lions back to the Great Plains Zoo.
Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce Community Appeal Campaign April - July 2018 chambernews.com | Chamber News 9
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.
Visitors’ Impact to South Dakota in 2017 Local Impact Sioux Falls is in the Southeast South Dakota tourism region. Nearly $1.5 billion or 38 percent of all visitor spending occurs in this region. Minnehaha County captures 27 percent of all visitor spending statewide. Visitor spending in Lincoln County has more than doubled in the past five years, reaching $93 million in 2017. With higher wages paid in the region, 45 percent of the state’s tourism-generated labor income goes to employees in the Southeast region.
Minnehaha County (in millions) $1060.74 total
Lincoln County (in millions) $93.21 total
TRANSPORTATION
$287.44
RECREATION
$271.55
TRANSPORTATION
$26.54
RECREATION
$14.02
RETAIL
$20.78 RETAIL
$141.38
FOOD & BEVERAGE
$234.14
FOOD & BEVERAGE
$22.91
LODGING
$8.96
LODGING
$126.23
Statewide Impact TOURISM IS THE SIXTH LARGEST EMPLOYER IN SOUTH DAKOTA VISITOR INDUSTRYSUPPORTED JOBS:
53,894
(8.9 percent of all jobs in South Dakota)
NUMBER OF VISITORS:
13.9 million
VISITOR SPENDING:
$3.9 billion,
a 1.2 percent increase over 2016
TAXES GENERATED:
$291 million
in state and local taxes in 2017
BECAUSE OF VISITORS, SOUTH DAKOTA HOUSEHOLDS SAVE $871 IN TAXES Source: South Dakota Department of Tourism
10 Chamber News | MAY 2018
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
MARCH 2018
FEBRUARY 2018
CUMULATIVE YEAR TO DATE
1,295 PERMITS
2016
1,196 PERMITS
2017
BISMARCK
3.8%
1,057 PERMITS
2018 0
300
600
900
1200
FARGO
3.2%
1500
MINNEAPOLIS/ ST. PAUL
Source: City of Sioux Falls
3.3%
RAPID CITY
City of Sioux Falls Total Construction Value
4.1%
MARCH 2018
SIOUX FALLS
CUMULATIVE YEAR TO DATE
3.4%
ROCHESTER
3.5%
CEDAR RAPIDS
3.8%
250 OMAHA
3.1%
DES MOINES
3.3%
LINCOLN
2.6%
200
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Note: figures represent Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA), not just city; rates are not seasonally-adjusted
Agriculture Trends
150 $135.1 million $65.2 million
FEBRUARY 2018
100
$9.86
10
$193.5 million $106.4 million
$9.30 $9.43 $8.88
0
$104.0 million $42.9 million
(IN MILLIONS)
50
$9.49
2016
2017
Source: City of Sioux Falls
Total Construction Value
2018
8
SOYBEANS
(PER BUSHEL) U.S. SOUTH DAKOTA
6
New Non-Residential Construction Value
Sioux Falls Region Housing Overview MARCH 2018
New Listings: 552 Days on the Market Until Sale: 93 Median Sales Price: $200,500 Inventory of Homes for Sale: 1,229 Source: RASE (Realtor Association of the Sioux Empire)
$9.16
CORN
(PER BUSHEL) U.S. SOUTH DAKOTA
4
$3.44
$3.14
2
February
2017
$3.29
$2.98
$3.38
$3.14
January February
2018
2018
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture chambernews.com | Chamber News 11
FACES & PLACES
Faces & Places
APRIL MEYERINK Black Hills Federal Credit Union
CINDI JOHNSON Spectrum Marketing Services
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.
TOM HACKL
MATTHEW SOWDEN
Dougherty & Company LLC
Waddell & Reed Matthew Sowden
JACK DYVIG
DAREN ANDERSON
Sioux Falls Morning Optimists Club
Big D Technology Solutions, Inc.
LYNDA BILLARS
The Lynda B. Advantage/ Team Billars & Associates KW
JULIE NELSON
American Bank & Trust
Recognition of Chamber Volunteers The Ambassador Team of the Month for March was Team Meyerink: April Meyerink, Black Hills Federal Credit Union; Tom Hackl, Dougherty & Company LLC; and Matthew Sowden, Waddell & Reed - Matthew Sowden. Lynda Billars, The Lynda B. Advantage/ Team Billars & Associates KW won both the Sales Award and the Ribbon Cutting Attendance Award.
Cindi Johnson, Spectrum Marketing Services, was awarded Diplomat of the Month honors for March. Second place honors went to Jack Dyvig, Sioux Falls Morning Optimists Club, and Daren Anderson, Big D Technology Solutions, Inc., received third place honors and the Ribbon Cutting Attendance Award. Julie Nelson, American Bank & Trust, received the Reinvestment Award.
Diplomat Team of the Month for March went to Captain Janel Cole, Cole Notary; Jack Dyvig, Sioux Falls Morning Optimists Club; Joseph Herst, Sheraton Sioux Falls & Convention Center; Angie Wahl, J. Wahl Home Inspection; and Kelli Zimmer, Sioux Empire Housing Partnership.
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, major developments and award recognition. Submit news using the Faces & Places form at chambernews.com or email jdoyen@siouxfalls.com.
12 Chamber News | MAY 2018
FACES & PLACES
New Faces & Promotions Howalt+McDowell Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC company has hired two new team members. Tracy Skuza is a Client Advisor in the Property & Casualty department and Rebecca Fenton is a Safety & Compliance Consultant. Kelly Services has hired Jacob Roff as the new District Manager covering a 200-mile radius around Sioux Falls. Roff will oversee all operations and business development within the region. He has 12 years of industry experience. University Center Sioux Falls has added two new members to their Academic and Student Services team. Anna Jankord joined as their Recruitment and Outreach Specialist and Adam Strenge joined as their Student Success Advisor.
Honors & Awards The Sioux Falls Business Resource Network recognized Sheraton Sioux Falls & Convention Center, Cowboy Chicken and Staybridge Suites with a Disability Friendly Recognition Program Award. Howalt+McDowell Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC company client service team members Tammy Carlson, Karen Jergenson, D’one Hanisch, Kathy Dains and Chris DeSchepper have earned the Certified Construction Insurance Program (CCIP) designation. The certification course study teaches how to identify risk exposures, understand construction contracts and the risk transfer process and design an appropriate insurance program.
MetaBank has hired Kyle Alexander as Director of Marketing Analytics. John Haan joins as the Vice President Assistant Treasurer and Marisol Folkens has been hired as Senior Compliance Analyst. In addition, Courtney Rick was promoted to Senior Product Manager and Tom Gould was promoted to Director of Account Management Operations. Insight Marketing Design recently promoted several staff members and added a broadcast producer to its team. Jill Smith has been named Vice President, Digital Services. Smith has been with the agency since 2008. She will manage digital services, including website design and programming, app development, and digital strategies. Roger Nolan is now Vice President, Account Services. Nolan has been with Insight since
Howard Boote, Howalt+McDowell Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC company, has been approved for membership in the 2018 Million Dollar Round Table by the Premier Association of Financial Professionals. Christy Westerman, Employee Benefits Consultant for Howalt+McDowell Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC company, has been honored with the 2017 Promise Award in the small group segment by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield. As a company dedicated to keeping promises, winners are honored for their same dedication to integrity and excellence.
2016. He will lead client service initiatives and will be involved with new business development as well as client relations. Ben Hodgins has been promoted to Operations Manager. He joined Insight in 2005. In addition to his Operations Management responsibilities, Hodgins will continue as an Art Director. Drysen Carsten has been hired as Production Manager. Carsten specializes in motion graphics and video editing. He will produce broadcast and video projects for the agency.
Dawn Knutson, Midwest Employee Benefits, was named one of South Dakota’s top small group agents for 2017 by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of South Dakota. The Promise Award recognizes Knutson for her success in the past year and dedication to serving the needs of members. This is Knutson’s fourth consecutive year as a Promise Award winner. TownePlace Suites Sioux Falls South received Marriott’s 2017 Silver Circle Award. The award recognizes the top 20 percent of all TownePlace Suites hotels based on guest’s intent to recommend ratings. TownePlace Suites South opened in 2015 and has only been eligible to receive this award for the past two years.
Good Deeds The South Dakota Community Foundation presented a $50,000 South Dakota Fund grant to Junior Achievement of South Dakota. Funds will assure that Junior Achievement’s financial literacy programs will continue during 2017-2018 to help students at all grade levels, kindergarten through seniors, develop financial literacy skills.
Great Western Bank has awarded Helpline Center funding through its Making Life Great grant program. The grant will help the nonprofit organization purchase software to link multiple organizations and streamline assistance for its Sioux Empire Network of Care program.
MetaMissions, a MetaBank employee group focused on volunteerism, coordinated a travel-size toiletry drive for the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House. Several boxes of toiletries were donated.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 13
FACES & PLACES
Be Seen
1
2 1-3 The April Membership Mixer was hosted by Great Western Bank at
their 11th & Main location downtown. Group President Ryan J. Boschee welcomed 245 guests, who enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and networking with fellow chamber members.
3
14 Chamber News | MAY 2018
FACES & PLACES
4
5
4-6 The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce partnered with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to host the
6
Sioux Falls Cybersecurity Conference on March 27. More than 200 attendees heard from experts in the field about the current cybersecurity landscape and learned ways to protect their business from cyber threats.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 15
FACES & PLACES
Be Seen
7
8 7 Sioux Falls Public Works Director Mark Cotter and Planning & Building Services Director Mike Cooper
presented an overview of the infrastructure construction projections planned for this summer to attendees at the spring edition of Good Morning Sioux Falls. 8 John T. Meyer and Rosalynn Verges led a Business Sense Workshop sharing real-life applications for making your core values work in your workplace.
16 Chamber News | MAY 2018
Share your message with the business community Advertise in Chamber News Chamber News is a direct business-tobusiness publication that reaches the decision-makers in Sioux Falls area businesses. It is mailed directly to more than 5,000 Chamber members and distributed free at select locations around Sioux Falls.
Promote your business in Chamber News. Contact Steven Herman at (605) 351-1960 or chambernews@siouxfalls.com.
FACES & PLACES
Be Seen
9
9-10 The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce and
AARP in Sioux Falls hosted a Mayoral Candidate Forum on April 5. More than 200 people filled the Belbas Theatre to hear from the six candidates for mayor. 11 Chamber Chair of the Board Steve Van Buskirk, Van Buskirk Companies, was the featured speaker at a recent A Seat at the Table with the Young Professionals Network.
10
11 18 Chamber News | MAY 2018
FACES & PLACES
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14 12 Members of Leadership Sioux Falls class 32 participated in a tour of the county jail during a class on the topic of public safety. 13 European Union Ambassador to the U.S. David O’Sullivan addressed a group of chamber members on the topic of foreign trade and relations during a breakfast event. 14 YPN members toured Sanford’s new Imagenetics building on a recent Community Connections tour.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 19
FACES & PLACES
Be Seen
15
16
17 15-16 NAI Sioux Falls hosted Morning Mingle at one of their listed commercial properties. Attendees enjoyed coffee and networking – some even took the opportunity to shoot hoops before heading to work. 17 South Dakota Chamber of Commerce & Industry President David Owen offered his analysis of the 2018 legislative session to attendees at the Post-Legislative Wrap Up meeting in late March.
20 Chamber News | MAY 2018
FACES & PLACES
18 18 YPN members spent time networking over lunch at Cody’s Smokehouse during April’s YPN Power Lunch.
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FACES & PLACES
Be Seen
19 19 The final session for this year’s
Leadership Sioux Falls class focused on the nonprofit sector of our community. Class members learned what it takes to serve on a non-profit board and heard from experienced community leaders about what it means to give back to the community. 20 Dave Rozenboom, First PREMIER Bank, shared the successes, momentum and future plans of the current Forward Sioux Falls program.
20
22 Chamber News | MAY 2018
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. Applications for the 2018 review cycle will be available beginning May 1 and will be accepted until Aug. 1. 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
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICASIOUX COUNCIL APRIL 1-JULY 31, 2019 $1.57 MILLION
Renovate existing facilities to meet the increasing safety and program standards necessary to equip local youth to be “Prepared for Life.”
GREAT PLAINS ZOO & DELBRIDGE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY APRIL 1-JULY 31, 2018 $1.41 MILLION Create a new “Big Cats of Africa” exhibit.
For more information on the Community Appeals process and application, visit siouxfallschamber.com/community-appeals.cfm or call Mike Lynch at (605) 373-2008.
THE GLORY HOUSE OF SIOUX FALLS NOV. 1, 2019-MARCH 31, 2020 $1.35 MILLION ACTIVE GENERATIONS APRIL 1-JULY 31, 2020 $1.45 MILLION
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Enjoy the UPTIME. sdncommunications.com chambernews.com | Chamber News 23
COVER STORY
COMMUNITY HELPS CVB SELL SIOUX FALLS BY AMY SMOLIK
for the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce
24 Chamber News | MAY 2018
The 2018 Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic hosted in Sioux Falls.
What do the state’s largest convention, a photo blogger, a sports tournament and a college theater festival have in common?
as the convention, she said. Anderson credits the entire community for making this year’s tradeshow a success, especially the Convention & Visitors Bureau.
They’ve all utilized the services of the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau in traveling to Sioux Falls or bringing conventions, meetings and events to the city. Top-notch facilities, collaboration among many organizations and, of course, word-of-mouth also played a role in welcoming more than 1.65 million visitors to the city last year*.
“The Convention & Visitors Bureau played a monumental role in this event and their service was exponential. The CVB assisted us in every step of the way. The services provided were site selection and inspections of various hotels and venues, accommodation bids, vendor contacts, sponsor contacts, press and media coverage, event preparations, promotional materials, liaison between our organization and the community.”
Sometimes, bringing groups to Sioux Falls is years in the making, like the 2018 Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic. Sioux Falls had been on the Pheasants Forever radar for some time, but it wasn’t until the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center opened that bringing this convention to the city became a possibility, said Lacey Anderson, event coordinator with Pheasants Forever. It was fitting that South Dakota celebrated its 100th year of pheasant hunting the same year *Represents the number of visitors the CVB is able to track. Actual number of visitors to the city is higher.
Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic was the largest convention and trade show ever held in South Dakota — nearly 29,000 people attended. Anderson wasn’t worried about that badge of honor — she and her team were confident that Sioux Falls would be able to successfully serve as the host city. “It’s as if this community is truly family. This is not just a friendly welcoming community in the heart of America, this is a team who rallies together on all levels to make their chambernews.com | Chamber News 25
COVER STORY
@shineonyoucraydiamond
Jill Emmer took this photo at the Elmwood Golf Course on their drive to dinner before the Skyforce game when she and her family visited Sioux Falls in January 2017. It was the most “liked” photo from her trip.
guests feel at home and part of their family,” she said. “The hotel staff were incredibly hospitable, the restaurants were top-notch and the local businesses were all eager to pitch in. Honestly, I am anxious to come back with my family for a vacation rather than business next time.” Family vacations are another way the CVB sells the city, using authentic moments from social media influencers to spread the word about Sioux Falls. Minneapolis professional photographer and social media influencer Jill Emmer and her family were invited to spend a long weekend in Sioux Falls in January 2017. The intent was to fill the weekend with adventures and showcase her family’s experiences on her blog, Facebook pages and Instagram account, Emmer said. While in Sioux Falls, Emmer’s family took in a Skyforce game, saw a Cirque Du Soleil show and visited many Sioux Falls iconic stops, capturing images of many of those stops and then sharing them on her social media accounts, also using local hashtags like #WeAreHereSF and #hifromSD. Thousands of people viewed her family’s experience. “My family of course loves it when I am hired for tourism jobs like this! We get to experience the best of the city,” Emmer said. “We had several experiences that they’re still talking about a year later. They absolutely loved the Skyforce game and how intimate it was. We got to sit so close to the players and they got to meet several of the players after the game. They also still talk about the Scheel’s store with the Ferris wheel and the butterflies that landed on their heads! I loved the Cirque Du Soleil! What an incredible performance!” Working with a social media influencer provides a different experience than posted, catalogue-like photos, Emmer said. She and her family have their experiences and she shares them in real-time with her audience — as well as additional photos that can be used in the future. The photos on her accounts drive visitors to her blog to read a more in-depth description of her travels and to see more photos. 85th Street & Minnesota Ave 26 Chamber News | MAY 2018
@shineonyoucraydiamond
“While I am on a tourism trip my audience gets to experience the trip in real time through my Instagram ‘stories.’ I also like to use the slide-show carousel feature on my Instagram account to show many highlights of each day. Sometimes I will share 10 photos in one posting!” Emmer said. With the user name Visit Sioux Falls, social media remains a great way for the CVB to talk about Sioux Falls and its amenities. Through various campaign efforts, the Visit Sioux Falls brand generated more than 87.8 million impressions and drove more than 244,000 clicks to visitsiouxfalls.com through tracked media placements. More than half a million people visited the site in 2017, with more than 86 percent of the visits coming from non-locals.
Sales & Services Business Booked in 2017 (through 2025) Number of Events: 71 (30 New, 41 Repeat) Projected Attendance: 59,730 Room Nights: 20,230 Estimated Economic Impact: $19.48 million
@shineonyoucraydiamond
On visitsiouxfalls.com, the CVB also promotes different options for travelers and meeting planners alike, with everything from building itineraries, things to do, places to stay and eat, and planning resources from the CVB. Data that reports hotel and flight bookings after a targeted consumer sees digital advertising campaigns implemented by the CVB generated $430,199 in hotel revenue. Traditional media also plays a role in advertising Sioux Falls as a great location for meetings and events. Freelance writer and editor Carolyn Blackburn has worked with the Sioux Falls CVB on a number of stories that have appeared in niche or trade publications. “I recently learned about the city’s built-in amenities, beyond its great hotels and convention center, as I collected info for two themed articles about South Dakota, one highlighting the state’s nightlife options for groups, and the other showcasing the state’s parks and recreational opportunities,” Blackburn said. “I didn’t know that Sioux Falls has six craft breweries that groups can visit after a day of meetings, or that the picturesque Falls Park can be used as an off-site event venue for group receptions. But what was most surprising was learning about the 55 pieces of art along downtown’s SculptureWalk, which could be used during a fun scavenger hunt or similar outing for groups on a budget.” Groups of all sizes find the itinerary that’s “just right” for them, often with the help of the CVB. For the Western State Bank Senior Club in Devils Lake, North Dakota, Cathy Henke planned their 2017 outing to Sioux Falls. After doing some initial research online, she reached out to the CVB for
2017 Convention Calendar Number of Events: 91 (41 New, 50 Repeat) Attendance: 72,523 Room Nights: 38,498 Estimated Economic Impact: $29.8 million 2017 Services Number of Events, Conventions & Tours: 155 Attendance: 319,981 Personnel hours provided: 834.75 Groups utilizing on-site registration assistance: 42 Average length of convention: 3 days *Note: These numbers represent CVB-facilitated group bookings. Those that come to the city independently are not tracked.
VisitSiouxFalls.com #WeAreHereSF more help. Henke has planned several trips for this group and was impressed with Sioux Falls. “They did a fantastic job of giving me information about all the attractions you have in Sioux Falls and did an itinerary for me, which really helps with timing,” Henke said. “They gave me many suggestions as far as hotels and restaurants and it was my decision to pick the places I wanted.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 27
COVER STORY
Sioux Falls is a great place to visit — everywhere we went we were treated like kings.” In the case of the 2017 U.S. Youth Soccer Midwest Regional Champions, the CVB was involved in bringing this event to Sioux Falls, from the bidding process all the way through to the organization of the event and hosting. The Dakota Alliance Soccer Club approached the CVB to help with the bidding process, said Director of Coaching Frank Gurnick. This included: securing hotel rooms, working with local authorities to ensure traffic control/emergency services, hospitality for VIPs, press releases/press conferences, and general awareness from all the Sioux Falls partners to ensure that visitors would receive a “Midwest comfortable feel.” “The CVB was as invested in the success of this event as we were as the hosts. I felt that they wanted this event to leave a positive impression on all the participants and their fans,” Gurnick said. “The members of the CVB team were extremely professional, approachable and equipped to handle any curveballs.” Later this summer, another large group will hold its first convention in South Dakota — the Catholic Daughters of the Americas are expected to bring 800-1,000 members, clergy and guests to Sioux Falls for the 57th Biennial Convention. This national organization has been planning the convention for the past two years, said National Regent Helene Shepard. The last convention was in Pittsburgh and the next two are in Dallas and Puerto Rico. The group is excited for pre- and post-convention tours, as well as the activities taking place as part of their convention in Sioux Falls.
28 Chamber News | MAY 2018
“Working with the four hotels (Sheraton Sioux Falls, Ramada Hotel & Suites, Holiday Inn & Suites Airport and Best Western PLUS Ramkota Hotel) has been a very positive experience,” Shepard said. “They are so willing to work with us, as is the staff from the Convention Center.” Expanded amenities helped to bring another event back to Sioux Falls — the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. The Region 5 event will be here in 2019 and 2020. “Sioux Falls hosted the festival in 2000 and it was the only time the festival had come to South Dakota. At that time there were limited hotels and venues downtown and transportation was an issue,” said Jim Wood, Vice Chair of Region 5. “Downtown has grown so much and we can eliminate the transportation issue, so I think the time is right to bring the festival back to South Dakota and to showcase Sioux Falls.”
Approximately 1,500 people will attend, which requires more than 400 hotel rooms and Wood has been working with the CVB to secure rooms and meeting space for the festivals. “We’ve been working together for two years and I feel that I have only scratched the surface with how essential the CVB will be in this process,” Wood said. “I am incredibly proud and excited to show off my home! Not only are there world-class facilities, but the people have been exceptional to work with! This festival will have a large economic impact on the city and I couldn’t be more excited to bring amazing artists and worldrenowned artists to Sioux Falls. Most of our students think that they have to flock to one of the coasts to succeed in this industry. I was a working artist in Sioux Falls for over 10 years and I think people will be pleasantly surprised to find a vibrant arts community in South Dakota!” What is tourism’s impact? There’s the actual spending by tourists, but there’s also a downstream effect — those tourism dollars in return purchase goods and services for businesses, such as utilities or materials from wholesalers, and then the wages and salaries of employees in the industry (either directly or indirectly) spend money in the local economy. The city’s 1.65 million visitors had an estimated economic impact of $403.5 million in 2017.
Falls Park 2017 Statistics
For groups like Pheasants Forever, who’ve hosted conventions and meetings in larger markets like Des Moines, Kansas City or Minneapolis, having advocates and supporters throughout the community left a positive impression long after their 2018 event was over.
The Visitor Information Center at Falls Park completed its busiest season since its 2000 opening.
“The small-town hospitality is definitely what sets Sioux Falls apart from any other city we have had host our event,” Anderson said. “We will be back, Sioux Falls! There is no question about that.”
• 230,923 people entered the Visitor Information Center, 14,660 more people than in 2016. - Another 700,000 people are estimated to have visited the park in 2017 and not signed the guestbook. • Representatives from 50 states and 70 foreign countries signed the guestbook: - The top 10 states represented: Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Missouri, Illinois, California, Florida and North Dakota. - The top 10 countries represented: Canada, Australia, Germany, England, France, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Norway, the Netherlands, and Italy.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 29
Join Us May 8th For Our 2018 Visitor Industry Luncheon
The CVB’s annual Visitor Industry Awards will also be presented during the luncheon. Award categories include: Heart of the City Award, First Impressions Award, and Business Award.
Featured Speaker Lt. General Russel L. Honoré (Ret.) Commander of Joint Task Force Katrina and Global Preparedness Authority “Don’t Get Stuck on Stupid...Leadership in Action” May 8, 2018 • 11:30am Sioux Falls Convention Center For more information: VisitSiouxFalls.com/Luncheon
BUSINESS ADVOCACY
June ballot includes amendments to Marsy's Law Elections bring change, some changes are anticipated, some are not anticipated. This is the nature of elections, even with the best of intent. On June 5, the voters will be asked to vote to amend the South Dakota Constitution by voting on Constitutional Amendment Y (CA-Y), the amendment to Marsy’s Law. Why? Unintended consequences.
DEBRA OWEN
Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce
Once the law took effect, some unintended consequences were revealed.
The voters decided in 2016 to adopt Constitutional Amendment S, also known as Marsy’s Law. Once the law took effect, some unintended consequences were revealed. As currently written, Marsy’s Law prevents law enforcement from sharing criminal activity with the public to help solve crimes. It also imposes a significant financial burden on county governments, and it allows non-victims of the criminal action to have the same rights as victims in some instances. The proposed amendment addresses these concerns without changing the core of the voter-approved law. Marsy’s Law was named after a University of California Santa Barbara college student, Marsalee Leach, who was murdered by her former boyfriend in 1983. One week after this crime, her mother and brother, Dr. Henry Nicholas, were confronted by Marsy’s assailant in a grocery store. They were unaware that he had been released on bail. The story is tragic and compelling and led Dr. Nicholas to become actively engaged in victim’s rights and to carry his advocacy to more than six states beyond California. Dr. Nicholas personally funded the South Dakota campaign for Marsy’s Law with more than $2.1 million. South Dakota adopted Marsy’s Law with nearly 60 percent of voter approval. During each election year, the Chamber’s Issues Management Council (IMC) fully considers every ballot measure and makes recommendations to our Board of Directors. Back in 2016, the IMC voted to encourage a “No” vote on Marsy’s Law. Here is the rationale IMC stated for voting “No” on Marsy’s Law: A change or expansion of victim rights is far better handled in statute rather than our state’s constitution. Once inserted into the constitution, the impacts of this measure become much more difficult to change or adjust as need be. Statutes, on the other hand, can be changed in any given legislative session and victims’ rights are currently included in state law and have been since the 1990’s. Furthermore, a recent legislative session has not seen significant changes proposed in terms of changes to our victims’ rights statute like proposed in this measure. It seems this is intended to address a problem that does not really exist in South Dakota. Finally, there is a concern of the impact this measure would place upon our states attorneys and their offices, responsibilities, staffing and budget. Prosecutors, the defense bar and the state bar as a whole are strongly opposed to the measure, stating the measure is generally unneeded in South Dakota, would have costly implications ad is better handled statutorily. Fast forward to 2018: the legislature passed HJR 1004 and HB 1162 to place an amendment to Marsy’s law on the June 5 primary election ballot. It is important to note, Dr. Nicholas is in support of the amendments to Marsy’s Law and has committed financial support to encourage voters to approve this measure. The IMC will be reviewing the proposed amendments to Mary’s Law in early May. We look forward to sharing with you their recommendations and analysis.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 31
Leadership Sioux Falls graduates 32nd class Members of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce’s Evan C. Nolte Leadership Sioux Falls (LSF) program will graduate Wednesday, May 2. W. Tom Simmons, Simmons Presentations, will address the graduates and their guests. He will share lessons in leadership learned over his more than 45 year career in communications industries.
W. TOM SIMMONS The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Simmons Presentations Commerce has sponsored this community development program for 32 years. It is designed to meet the need for active participation of informed and dedicated community leaders. Main objectives of the program are: to inform and motivate participants by providing information on community resources; to identify community issues and challenges; to interact with other community leaders; and to gain a sense of community trusteeship.
Leadership Sioux Falls sessions are held monthly October-May at various times and locations in the community. Session topics change
32 Chamber News | MAY 2018
Evan C. Nolte
Leadership Sioux Falls
Class 32
along with the issues, challenges and opportunities. Core topics include economic development, public safety, human services, healthcare, education, non-profit volunteerism and quality of life issues. The quality of the participants is the true strength of the Leadership Sioux Falls program. They represent the public and private sectors, and civic and community organizations in the Sioux Falls area. This year’s participants were selected from 75 applications. For more information the program, contact Kayla Huizing at (605) 373-2002 or khuizing@siouxfalls.com. Applications for the 33rd class will be available at siouxfallschamber.com in July 2018.
HEADLINES
LEADERSHIP SIOUX FALLS 32 Jennifer Adix
Mallory Flanigan
Robbie Arend
Lexie Frankman
Amberly Austad
Nikki Gronli
Cain Ellsworth & Company, LLP
BryAnn Becker Knecht
Eric Gulden
P & M Steel Co.
Matt Brockmeier
Michelle Klobassa
Lutheran Social Services of SD
Jade Delaney
Mary Kolsrud
Helpline Center
Christopher Drayer
Mindy Kroll
RSM US LLP
Joel Engel
Ashley Lipp
American Bank & Trust
Dr. Eric Fahrendorf
Ryan Martin
Sioux Falls Development Foundation
Steven Fessler
Andrea Miller
Southeast Tech
Lucas Fiegen
Erik Nyberg
Minnehaha County
Tallgrass Recovery & Sober Living Homes
First Bank & Trust
Katrin Profilet
SDN Communications
Poet
Dorsey & Whitney Trust Company LLC
Security National Bank of South Dakota Sanford Health Foundation
Time Management Systems
Woods, Fuller, Shultz & Smith P.C. Fahrendorf Family Chiropractic & Wellness, P.C. City of Sioux Falls
Sara Ramirez Susie Ryks
TSP, Inc.
Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation
J & L Harley-Davidson
Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center
Tommy Pollema
Midco
Lemonly
Thomas Otten
Daniel Schelske Aaron Tribble
Jennifer Tuttle
Lloyd Companies
Chellee Unruh
U.S. Bank
Journey Group Companies
Fiegen Construction Co.
Cutler Law Firm, LLP
Barron’s
Top 1,200 Financial Advisor 2009 and 2011 - 2018
Richelle Hofer Wealth Advisor CRPC®, ChFEBC , AWMA®, A AMS® SM
Gordon Wollman Founder & CEO, CFS Wealth Advisor, RJFS MS-FINANCIAL PL ANNING, CFP ®, ChFC, CMFC®, CRPS®, ChFEBC , AWMA®, A AMS® SM
Daniel Reinders Wealth Advisor CRPC®, ChFEBC
SM
Congratulations Gordon Wollman! Recognized by Barron’s as a Top 1,200 Financial Advisor in the nation!*
280 Dakota Ave South Huron, SD 57350
224 N Phillips Ave, Ste 200 Sioux Falls, SD 57104
877.352.9490 • cornerstonefinancialsolutions.com Cornerstone Financial Solutions, Inc. is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. *Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors,” March, 2018. Barron’s is a registered trademark of Dow Jones & Company, L.P. All rights reserved. The rankings are based on data provided by over 4,000 individual advisors and their firms and include qualitative and quantitative criteria. Data points that relate to quality of practice include professionals with a minimum of 7 years financial services experience, acceptable compliance records (no criminal U4 issues), client retention reports, charitable and philanthropic work, quality of practice, designations held, offering services beyond investments offered including estates and trusts, and more. Financial Advisors are quantitatively rated based on varying types of revenues produced and assets under management by the financial professional, with weightings associated for each. Investment performance is not an explicit component because not all advisors have audited results and because performance figures often are influenced more by clients’ risk tolerance than by an advisor’s investment picking abilities. The ranking may not be representative of any one client’s experience, is not an endorsement, and is not indicative of future performance. Neither Raymond James nor any of its Financial Advisors pay a fee in exchange for this award/rating. Barron’s is not affiliated with Raymond James. chambernews.com | Chamber News 33
HEADLINES
A new look for YPN At nine years old, the Young Professionals Network (YPN) has a fresh new look. Program leadership unveiled an updated logo and website at the YPN Birthday Bash in late April. The new look is the result of direction and collaboration from YPN Steering Committee members, chamber staff and volunteers. According to YPN Manager Kayla Huizing, the Steering Committee conducted a strategic visioning session in the spring of 2017. Information gathered during that session was used as a starting point for the team in creating new imaging and messaging. “YPN is all about developing and connecting young leaders,” said Huizing. “We felt it was time to freshen up our look and we wanted to be sure to do it in a way that reflects who we are and what we do.” A program of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, the YPN has nearly 1,000 members between the ages of 21-39. Members represent a wide variety of industries including
finance, healthcare, engineering, agriculture, retail and many more. Through a variety of personal and professional development activities, YPN seeks to engage the next generation of leaders and to help young professionals develop the skills they need to succeed in their chosen profession or occupation. The events and activities offered by
YPN have evolved over time, but the purpose remains unchanged: to develop and connect young leaders in the Sioux Falls area. “We are excited for a new look that really captures our program well and creates a strong visual for YPN,” Huizing said.
Public invited to attend Armed Forces Day Ceremonies The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce Military & Veterans Affairs Committee is hosting the annual Armed Forces Day program on Saturday, May 19. The program will take place at 10:30 a.m. on the grounds of the Sioux Falls VA Health Care System. In case of inclement weather, ceremonies will be moved to the South Dakota Air National Guard, 1201 W. Algonquin, Hanger 40.
ARMED FORCES DAY CEREMONIES Saturday, May 19
10:30 a.m. Sioux Falls VA Health Care System
COMMAND SGT. MAJ. JAMES A. HOEKMAN
President Harry S. Truman led the effort to South Dakota National Guard establish a single holiday for citizens to come together and thank military members for their patriotic service in support of the country. On Aug. 31, 1949, Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced the creation of an Armed Forces Day to replace separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force Days. The single day celebration stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under the Department of Defense. The 2018 event features a keynote address by Command Sgt. Maj. James A. Hoekman of the South Dakota National Guard, a formal military program, Sioux Falls Municipal Band Concert and Avenue of Flags
34 Chamber News | MAY 2018
Ceremony. “Stars & Stripes” awards will be presented to selected Sioux Falls citizens who proudly fly the American flag year-round. Outstanding Achievement Awards will be presented to selected guardsmen/women and reservists for outstanding military achievement and commitment to their country and community. Oath of Enlistment Ceremonies will induct South Dakota volunteers into the U.S. Armed Forces. For more information, contact Valerie Willson at vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010.
HEADLINES
Community Appeals schedules new campaigns The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce Community Appeals Committee has scheduled two organizations for their respective 20192020 solicitations to the business community. The Glory House of Sioux Falls will conduct a campaign to provide affordable, long-term housing for up to 72 public offenders with immediate access to substance abuse, mental health, employment and case management services. The apartments will be located adjacent to their existing residential reentry center on West 51st Street. The total cost of the proposed project is approximately $6.8 million, with $1.35 million of this amount to be raised through Community Appeals. The campaign period is Nov. 1, 2019 to March 31, 2020. Active Generations, which was also scheduled, plans to purchase land and build a second location at the Dawley Farm Complex (Veterans Parkway and 18th St.). The need to expand their services to the elderly, which include membership activities, the nutrition program and caregiver services, has increased significantly throughout the past several years. The Active Generations campaign period is scheduled for April 1-July 31, 2020. The amount to be raised from the Sioux Falls area business community through Community Appeals is $1.45 million, which would be applied to the estimated overall project cost of $9.99 million. The Community Appeals process is highly regarded as a way to help facilitate the capital campaign process for both the organizations
soliciting, as well as for the businesses contributing to these causes. Online applications for 2021-22 Community Appeals scheduling consideration will open May 1, 2018 and close Aug. 1, 2018. Organizations defined as non-profit and educational are encouraged to apply. The basis for selection from the Chamber Community Appeals Committee will be those organizations that show there is an unmet need that exists within the Sioux Falls community and provide evidence that the solicitation plans have taken the private, public and business sectors of the community into consideration when targeting available dollars for the capital campaign drive. Applicants will present to the committee early this fall and a vote to consider scheduling organizations will occur in early 2019. More information and the application can be found at siouxfallschamber.com/ community-appeals.cfm The American Cancer Society has determined to withdraw from its originally-scheduled Community Appeals time slot of Nov. 1, 2018 to March 31, 2019. At the time of the May Chamber News deadline, the Community Appeals Committee was scheduled to meet on April 25 to determine next steps. Results from this meeting will be communicated in the June Chamber News.
South Dakota’s one and only Respiratory Care Program. Providing you with highly trained employees with hands-on experience from a trusted local educator.
Classes offered right here in Sioux Falls at University Center! SDUniversityCenter.org | 605-274-9500 chambernews.com | Chamber News 35
HEADLINES
A standing room only crowd filled the Sanford Pentagon for the NCAA DII Men’s Basketball National Championship game between Ferris State (Big Rapids, Mich.) and Northern State.
Sports fans flocked to Sioux Falls in March BY TIM EVANS
Sioux Falls Sports Authority
March of 2018 was set to be a busy year for the Sioux Falls Sports Authority with the Summit League Championship setting its sights on Sioux Falls for the 10th straight year, NCAA Division II looking to make history by holding the first-ever combined men’s and women’s basketball championship, and NCAA Division I Ice Hockey making its first appearance in our great city. As planning was in full swing late last fall, another intriguTIM EVANS ing event came into the picture. The NAIA Sioux Falls Sports Authority Division II Men’s Basketball Championship was looking for a new home to bring 32 teams for its championship, and in November 2017, chose Sioux Falls as its host for 2018 and 2019. The five championships took over the town in the month of March and the events, new and old, put up some impressive numbers. In 22 days, Sioux Falls hosted 68 teams to play 62 games with three National Champions, a regional champion and two conference champions crowned. Of the 62 games played, 12 were broadcasted nationally on CBS, CBS Sports Network and ESPN. The NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Championship aired on CBS prior to the Division I Elite Eight games, and 1.24 million viewers tuned in to watch Ferris State (Big Rapids, Mich.) defeat Northern State 71-69 in front of a record-setting, standing room only crowd of 3,538 fans at the Sanford Pentagon.
36 Chamber News | MAY 2018
As the coaches, student-athletes and administrators assembled in Sioux Falls’ hotels, their families and fans followed. The Summit League championships once again set attendance records at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, with the women’s championship being the highest attended conference tournament in the country, surpassing the SEC, ACC, Pac-12 and Big Ten to name a few. A women’s championship game attendance record was also set with 8,704 fans settling into the PREMIER Center on a snowy Tuesday afternoon to see the Jackrabbits triumph over the Coyotes 65-50, helping the overall tournament attendance reach the second-highest total of all-time with 27,054 fans passing through the gates. The men’s championship game featured its second-highest attendance mark at the Summit League Championships with 11,114 fans filling the seats at the PREMIER Center to watch South Dakota State earn a trip to the Big Dance with a 97-87 win over South Dakota. In bringing the NCAA Division I Ice Hockey West Regional to Sioux Falls for the first time, the Sioux Falls Sports Authority partnered with the University of North Dakota and the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center. When the UND Men’s Hockey team, which has 32 NCAA Tournament appearances all-time, did not make the tournament, some might have thought that would have a negative impact on the crowds in Sioux Falls. What happened was the West Regional became the highest attended regional of the four, competing against Worcester, Mass., Allentown, Pa. and Bridgeport, Conn. A total of 16,007 fans attended the West Regional at the PREMIER Center, outdrawing the next closest regional by over 2,000 fans.
CHAMBER PARTNER
The Air Force took on St. Cloud State in the first game of the NCAA DI Ice Hockey West Regional at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center.
As the hockey championship was going on at the PREMIER Center, the NCAA Division II Men’s and Women’s Basketball national title hunt was heating up at the Sanford Pentagon. The NCAA chose Sioux Falls to be the host of the first-ever combined Division II Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championship, and the Sioux Falls Sports Authority was excited about the opportunity to try something new with the NCAA. Both championships were played at the 3,200 seat Pentagon. Total attendance topped 20,000 as fans watched 16 teams play 14 games from March 19-24. The women’s championship game on Friday night was attended by 1,249 fans, while the men’s championship set a venue record with an official sellout crowd of 3,538. Sandwiched in between the Summit League Championships and the NCAA Division II Men’s and Women’s Elite Eight, the Sioux Falls Sports Authority hosted the NAIA Division II Men’s Basketball Elite Eight for the first time at the Sanford Pentagon. The NAIA DII Men’s Basketball Championship featured 32 teams, which played 31 games over seven days, including eight games per day the first three days of competition. All 32 teams were also engaged with the community via school visits and the Honorary Coach Program, which paired each team with a member of the Sioux Falls community who was labeled as an Honorary Coach.
MARCH BY THE NUMBERS 68 Teams 62 Games 3 National Champions 2 Conference Champions 12 National Television Broadcasts
The honorary coach and a guest joined their team at practice, team meals and on the bench during the games, while also being announced during team introductions prior to tip-off. To make these events happen, the Sioux Falls Sports Authority relies on a dedicated and reliable group of volunteers. In March 2018, more than 200 volunteers gave up their time to be involved in each of the championships, with many individuals working all the events. Thank you to all of our volunteers for their time and support.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 37
BUSINESS NEWS
Visitor Industry Updates CVB PITCHES BOTH DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL SALES Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) Sales Manager, Jackie Wentworth, recently attended back-to-back travel shows where she showcased Sioux Falls to tour operators from two specific markets. Circle Wisconsin Midwest Marketplace was held at Lake Geneva, Wisconsin from April 8-10. At this show, Wentworth met with 33 tour operators who are planning domestic trips via motor coach. Most of the tour operators were from the five-state region of Wisconsin, Iowa, Indiana, Minnesota and Illinois. Sioux Falls was promoted as an overnight stop, and Wentworth encouraged the tour operators to include Sioux Falls attractions as part of their activities. Rocky Mountain International (RMI) held their annual “Round-Up” that same week in Kalispell, Montana. RMI is a fourstate public-private partnership that markets South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana and Wyoming as the Great American West. RMI provided a forum for the CVB to interact with international tour operators who are assisting independent travelers to plan their vacations (or “holiday” as they call it) to the United States. All 36 pre-scheduled eight-minute appointments took place in one day. The tour operators represented France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, Australia and the Netherlands. During the brief appointments at both shows, Wentworth shared a variety of two and three-night sample itineraries that could be customized depending on the individual traveler’s interests. She also encouraged flights through the international gateway cities of Chicago and Minneapolis.
CVB PITCHES SIOUX FALLS TO SPORTS PLANNERS Tate Stensgaard, sales manager for the CVB, attended the 2018 NASC Sports Events Symposium in Minneapolis from April 23-26. The NASC Sports Event Symposium is the annual meeting of the National Association of Sports Commissions (NASC). NASC was established in 1992 and is the only non-profit 501(c)3 association for the sport tourism industry in the United States. Hundreds of sport tourism professionals and industry partners gather to exchange time, resources, strategies, solutions and more. Stensgaard conducted more than 30 individual appointments with sport planners from across the country.
BENCH PRESS NATIONALS TO COME TO SIOUX FALLS IN 2019 USA Powerlifting South Dakota has won the bid to host the 2019 USA Powerlifting Bench Press Nationals. The event will take place in Sioux Falls at the Convention Center in August of 2019. The 2019 Bench Press Nationals is expected to bring 250-300 athletes from across the country. This is the first time Sioux Falls will host a national USA Powerlifting event.
38 Chamber News | MAY 2018
Teams participate in a US Youth Soccer Tournament last summer.
SOCCER INVITATIONAL TO DRAW HUNDREDS OF TEAMS TO THE CITY The Dakota Alliance Soccer Club will host their annual Daniel Ohayon Memorial Tournament on May 11-13 at Tomar Park and Yankton Trail Park. This year marks the 31st year of the Invitational Tournament, which was recently renamed to memorialize legendary South Dakota coach, Daniel Ohayon. In 2017, the tournament drew 174 teams from across the USA and Canada, creating a very successful competition.
CHINESE TOUR OPERATORS TO VISIT SIOUX FALLS The South Dakota Department of Tourism and Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau will host a Chinese delegation of tour operators on May 13-14 in Sioux Falls. The group is comprised of some very prominent individuals in the Chinese travel market, including the number one travel wholesaler in Southern China, the number two wholesaler in Northern China and the number one wholesaler in Western China, along with a few others. This will be the group’s inaugural trip to our region and they are excited to see all Sioux Falls has to offer for tours. The group will spend several days in South Dakota before making their way to Colorado.
Celebrate Summer at Falls Park! Falls Park Visitor Information Center offers the largest selection of Sioux Falls memorabilia including T-shirts, postcards and kids apparel. Open Daily 10am-9pm Now - May 25 Open Daily 9am-9pm Memorial Day - Labor Day Weekend For more information call 605.367.7430 or go to VisitSiouxFalls.com/FallsPark.
Managed by:
BUSINESS SENSE
Research reveals 'Digital State of the Midwest' The key to marketing is knowing your audience. But too often, we rely on national data and coastal trends to make decisions here in the Midwest. How well do we really know our customers? In November, Click Rain conducted a landmark survey of 1,000 people in the upper Midwest to get real data from real people in our region. We wanted to find out how people use technology, and what trends are going to shape the future of marketing.
CHRIS PRENDERGAST Click Rain
Some of our findings confirmed the traditional marketing wisdom, but plenty of data surprised us. We’re sharing a few of our interesting findings here, along with insights for how businesses should react.
MOBILE TRENDS It was no surprise to see the dominance of mobile devices in our lives. Eighty percent of people in our region regularly use a smartphone, compared to 77 percent of people using a computer and 45 percent of people using a tablet.
This video trend is more evident in another question. We asked how often respondents watched videos on YouTube or other video platforms. More than 65 percent of millennials indicated that they watch YouTube multiple times per week or more. Does your 2018 content strategy account for the differing needs of these separate audiences?
REPUTATION MANAGEMENT Customer feedback can come in many ways, via phone, email or social media. But that’s only part of what people are saying about your company. What about all the feedback that you can’t see directly, like customer reviews, forum posts and personal recommendations?
Most people obviously use multiple devices in a day, but the number of “mobile-only consumers” is on the rise. Eleven percent of people in our region don’t have access to a desktop, laptop or tablet device, and are interacting with your business only on a smartphone. Make sure that your 2018 marketing strategy can target this growing group.
MULTICHANNEL CONTENT Our survey asked about content preferences of people in our region. Would people rather interact with your business through articles, social media, video or other content types? Sixty-five percent of Midwesterners enjoy reading short articles, compared to 59 percent for social media and 57 percent for video. But age is a strong factor in these trends. All age groups like short articles, but video interest skewed heavily younger. Seventy-seven percent of 18-to 34-year-olds like watching online video, compared to 33 percent of those 55 and older.
40 Chamber News | MAY 2018
In our region, your customers are 55 percent more likely to talk about your business online than to talk directly to your business. What’s your strategy to track the online discussion about your brand? One interesting finding from this part of the study concerns online reviews. Twenty-nine percent of the people in our region have left an online review about a business in the past year. What’s even more interesting are the reasons why people are leaving reviews. Seventy-five percent of people who have left a review said that they are likely to do so after a good experience. This compares to 53 percent who leave a review after a bad experience. Your customers want to give you good reviews, but it’s your job to make it easy. Claim your Google My Business listing and encourage your customers to return a positive experience with a positive review.
budget you are putting toward your website, your content strategy and your search engine optimization — channels that are not affected by ad blockers. No matter what happens with technology, you will never go wrong investing in yourself.
GO DEEPER WITH THE DATA With 1,000 individual responses and more than 154,000 data points, we learned a lot more from this study. If you’re interested in the detailed insights gained from our survey, download the Digital State of the Midwest at clickrain.com/report.
AD BLOCKING We were surprised to learn how many Midwesterners use browser extensions to block online ads. In our region, 38 percent of respondents indicated using an ad blocker on at least one device. This crossed gender, age, income and education boundaries — ad blocking is not limited to one demographic but rather extends to everyone.
Chris Prendergast is chief strategy officer and a partner at Click Rain, a marketing technology agency located in downtown Sioux Falls. The award-winning agency works with more than a hundred clients across the country, using the latest marketing technologies and tactics to help them drive results more effectively, efficiently and measurably.
If more than one-third of your audience can’t see your paid media, the best counter is to focus on your other digital efforts. Consider the
The Coverage You Want. The Commitment You Need. Business | Home | Health | Life We all need insurance to protect our homes and businesses. You also need the support of professionals who stand by your side— sweating the small stuff so you don’t have to. Fischer, Rounds & Associates combines the coverage you want with the commitment you need. That’s at Your Service. At Your Side.
Call Us in Sioux Falls Phone: 605-336-4444 Toll Free: 877-789-3773
2300 W. 49th St. Sioux Falls, SD 57105 FischerRounds.com
Offices also in Mitchell, Pierre, Watertown and Rapid City chambernews.com | Chamber News 41
USING YOUR MEMBERSHIP
The Crew is a new way to be involved with the Chamber BY DEBORAH McISAAC
Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce
The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce answers countless inquiries daily. But there is no other question that brings a smile to our face more than “How can I get more involved in the Chamber?” There are several ways to answer this question. Usually it begins with more questions: What topics interest you? How much time are you looking to invest? Is there a particular time of day that works for your schedule? What do you hope to gain from your time? Chamber involvement is not limited to CEOs, managers or salespeople. Any employee of a Chamber member business is welcome to attend Chamber functions. The most solid return on investment for your chamber membership is to encourage all of your employees to take advantage of everything the Chamber has to offer. Your chamber membership offers a veritable cornucopia of opportunities to maximize your membership. Events, workshops, socials and seminars are a few options to learn, network and celebrate with the leading advocate of the Sioux Falls business community. Subscribe to our Quickly email for a weekly update of our calendar of events. Use your chamber membership to increase your sphere of influence. If you would like to take your event experience to the next level, check out our newest volunteer opportunity: The Chamber Activities Crew. The Crew is an avenue to Chamber involvement that any member can easily access. The Chamber Activities Crew is the support team to our Events Manager, Valerie Willson. Primarily, the Crew assists with event registration, set up and take down. First time volunteers will have a quick orientation before the event to make your experience a success. Larger events may have a wrap up meeting as well. The Crew is a great starting point for members who would like to meet more people and learn about the many activities the Chamber offers its members. Chamber events are offered in the morning, over
42 Chamber News | MAY 2018
Members of The Crew assisted at Good Morning Sioux Falls. Left to right: Micki DeCurtins, Jackie Swanstrom, Stefan Szwarc and Kate Hayes.
the lunch hour and after work, so you can volunteer with The Crew whenever works best for your schedule. Most positions are a onehour commitment. You are able to volunteer when you are available and as often as you like. The Chamber Activities Crew volunteer opportunity can also assist you with professional development. It is a great experience for people who want to learn more about event management or would like to develop these skills. Opportunities are always expanding because there is always something going on at the chamber. Each event has different crew duties. You might welcome members to a social mixer, arrive early to an event to assist with set up, or stay later to take down the event. Working the registration table is a great way to meet people and make connections. There are also opportunities to take event photos; it is preferable that you have some photography experience should you choose this role. Get more involved in the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce – join the Chamber Activities Crew today!
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Ribbon Cuttings
The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce holds ribbon cutting ceremonies for members to celebrate joining the Chamber, milestone anniversaries, 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.
FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers
6301 S. MINNESOTA AVE., SUITE 200 fyzical.com FYZICAL Therapy and Balance Center is a physical therapy clinic that specializes in dance medicine, women’s health issues and dizziness. L to R: Kylie Embry, Laurie Knutson, Matthew Sowden, Jay Soukup, Ruth Kern-Scott (owner), Mandy Kruse, Daschle Larsen, Dr. Jennifer Laufmann, Gita Hendricks and Leah Fulker. NEW MEMBER
Kore Cares
3101 W. 41ST ST., SUITE 210 korecares.com Kore Cares is a locally owned and operated home care agency celebrating their 2nd anniversary and their new and expanded location. L to R: Jay Soukup, Jesse Fonkert, Haley Vik, Gita Hendricks, Gabrielle Hoing (owner), Lynda Billars, Tara Burton, Randy Knecht and Alexis Konstant. NEW LOCATION
Mainstream BoutiqueSioux Falls West
2310 S. MARION RD., SUITE 130 Mainstream Boutique is celebrating their new ownership and the remodel of their Sioux Falls West location. L to R: Sandy Case, Steve Van Buskirk, Vanessa Gomez, Elizabeth Carrell (store manager), Jackie Stratman, Rhiannon Israel, Mark Luke and Jacob Dilley. NEW MEMBER
NAMI Sioux Falls
NEW LOCATION
121 S. MAIN AVE. nami.org NAMI Sioux Falls provides education, support and advocacy for individuals and families impacted by mental illness. They are celebrating their new location. L to R: Anney Geraets, Andrea Miller, Mark Luke, Jessica Hauck, Sara Lindquist (executive director), Jessica Stienstra (board president), Nancy Weber-Sweere, Mike Hauck, Aaron Tribble and Phyllis Arends. chambernews.com | Chamber News 43
RIBBON CUTTINGS Real Estate Made Memorable
5915 S. REMINGTON PL. homes-siouxfalls.com Martine Similien, PhD, is an associate broker at Keller Williams Realty and enjoys making people happy by helping them find their dream home. L to R: Shannon Ward, Dan Doyle, R. Martine Similien, PhD (broker associate), Lynda Billars, Mark Luke, Gita Hendricks, James Gaspar and Janel Cole. NEW MEMBER
Sawmill Trust Company
NEW MEMBER
222 S. MAIN AVE. sawmilltrust.com Sawmill Trust Company is a South Dakota trust company focused on delivering high quality fiduciary and financial services to generations of families in a cost-effective manner. L to R: Julie Wong, Kristin Hoefert, James Gaspar, Carrie Dragt, Jessica Beavers (senior VP), John Hinck (president and CEO), April Meyerink, Mike Hauck and Conley Brooks, Jr.
Gubernatorial Debate Thursday, May 31 7-8:30 p.m. Orpheum Theater, 315 N. Phillips Ave. You are invited to a debate between the candidates vying for the Republican nomination for South Dakota Governor. The debate is free and open to the public.
44 Chamber News | MAY 2018
S.D. Attorney General Marty Jackley
U.S. Representative Kristi Noem
RIBBON CUTTINGS SiouxFalls.Business
221 S. PHILLIPS AVE., SUITE 205 siouxfalls.business SiouxFalls.Business is a locally owned business news organization. L to R: James Gaspar, Jay Pickthorn, Darci Hustrulid, Jodi Schwan (owner), Randy Knecht, April Meyerink, Rosemary McCoy and Nathan Stallinga.
NEW MEMBER
Southeastern Dental Center
2851 E. JACKSON ST. sedentalcenter.com Southeastern Dental Center has relocated into a modern, state of the art facility to better serve their patients. L to R: Madeleine Whalen, Josh Muckenhirn, Dr. Melissa Gibson, Jay Rasmussen, Dr. Daniel Goede (owner), Mark Luke, Donna Goede, Stefanie Engebretson, Mike Hauck and Linda Gearman. NEW MEMBER
chambernews.com | Chamber News 45
RIBBON CUTTINGS Sport Bowl, Inc.
1901 BURNSIDE siouxfallssportbowl.com Sport Bowl is a bowling center featuring 24 lanes, newly updated scoring, billiards, a fullservice pro shop and café and lounge. L to R: Draven Sonnenfeld, Angie Wahl, April Meyerink, Bryan Parker (manager), Francisco Javier Alvarez-Evangelista, Jeremy Sonnenfeld (owner), Laurie Knutson, Mark Luke and Henry Parker. NEW MEMBER
Swamp Daddy’s Cajun Kitchen
421 N. PHILLIPS AVE., SUITE 105 facebook.com/SwampDaddysCajunKitchen.SD Swamp Daddy’s Cajun Kitchen is a local restaurant looking to spread Louisiana flavor here in Sioux Falls. L to R: Mark Luke, Tim Sturdevant, Gwendolyn Beaudion, Julian Beaudion (owner), April Meyerink, Del’Inkka Beaudion (owner), James Gaspar and Carrie Dragt. NEW MEMBER
WE PUT OUR ENERGY INTO DELIVERING MORE THAN ENERGY AROUND HERE.
This community isn’t just a place to us. We live here and work here. We invest in our communities to give back to the places we’re proud to call home. Visit xcelenergy.com/Community to learn more.
© 2018 Xcel Energy Inc.
46 Chamber News | MAY 2018
MEMBERSHIP
New Members Active Faith Chiropractic
Chiropractors, DC Haley Luond, (605) 216-6305 4900 E. 57th St., Suite B, 57108 activefaithchiro.com
Autoland
Automobile Dealers Brad Dumdie, (605) 339-3366 2500 N. Maple Lane, 57107 autolandsf.com
Brushy Creek Gifts
Retail Jimmy Rhodes, (605) 271-5450 815 S. Marion Rd., 57106 brushycreekgifts.com
BTI Sales & Service
Automobile Dealers Don Bonenberger, (605) 336-3795 600 E. 60th St., 57104 bigtrucksalesofsiouxfalls.com
Earthwise Pet Supply
Pet Food & Supplies Scott Ward, (605) 271-4673 6223 S. Western Ave., 57108 earthwisepet.com/siouxfalls
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. Want to become a member? Call (605) 336-1620.
Hegg RealtorsMaria Hopkins Real Estate Real Estate Maria Hopkins, (605) 610-5073 6225 S. Minnesota Ave., 57108 mariahopkinsrealtor.com
Hegg Realtors-Tony Wilber Real Estate Tony Wilber, (605) 323-7885 2804 E. 26th St., 57103 tonyw.hegg.com
ISG
Architects, Engineers, Planners David Doxtad, (605) 274-6401 101 S. Reid St., Suite 202, 57103 is-grp.com
One Chic and A Mop
Cleaning Service Janet Carroll, (605) 553-3335
Sioux Falls Audiology Associates Hearing Aids Mandy Norgaard, (605) 306-3050 4948 E. 57th St., 57108 siouxfallsaudiologyassociates.com
The Sauna Haus
Spas Lori Meyer, (605) 271-0914 1511 E. 69th St., 57108 thesaunahaus.com
Medstar Transit, LLC
Transportation-Wheelchair & Special Needs Jay Masur, (605) 582-6096 901 E. Amidon Ave., 57104 med-starambulance.com
Movin’ On Out
Moving & Storage Troy Haaland, (605) 977-6683 movinonout.com
chambernews.com | Chamber News 47
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.
FOUNDING MEMBERS
45 YEARS
Jewelers-Retail bechtoldjewelry.com Member since 1907
Engineers & Land Surveyors dgr.com
Bechtold Jewelry
Electric Supply Co., Inc. Electrical Contractors electricsupplyfsd.com Member since 1923
Innovative Office Solutions
Office Furniture, Printing, Supplies innovativeos.com Member since 1907
Johnson Shoes, Inc. dba Arthur Johnson Shoes Shoes-Retail Member since 1910
80 YEARS
Builders Supply Co. Building Materials builderssupply.biz
Harold’s Photo Centers Photo Finishing-Retail haroldsphoto.com
70 YEARS
Scott Lumber & Supply Co. A Division of Lampert Yards, Inc. Lumber-Retail scottslumber.com
60 YEARS
Karl’s TV, Audio & Appliances, Inc.
Appliances, Home & Auto ElectronicsSales & Service karlsonline.com
55 YEARS Howe, Inc.
Plumbing , Heating & Cooling Contractors howeinc.com
DGR Engineering
Kitchens & Windows Unlimited Millwork-Windows & Doors kwunlimited.com
40 YEARS
Business Archives
Record Storage businessarchivesonline.com
New York Life Insurance Company Great Plains General Office Insurance/Investments greatplains.nyloffices.com
30 YEARS
Geotek Engineering & Testing Services, Inc. Engineers-Consultants geotekeng.com
25 YEARS
ARS, a Tecta America Company, LLC Roofing & Sheet Metal arsinc-roofing.com
Farmers Insurance Group/ Willadsen Agency Insurance farmersagent.com/mwilladsen/
The Inn on Westport Retirement Community innonwestport.com
20 YEARS
CCC Information Services, Inc. Insurance Claims Processing cccis.com
15 YEARS
Harr & Lemme Commercial Real Estate, Inc. Real Estate-Commercial harr-lemme.com
Minnehaha County Commission Government Offices minnehahacounty.org
Minnehaha Sertoma Club Associate Member sertoma.org
Morton Buildings, Inc. Construction mortonbuildings.com
10 YEARS
Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation Associate Member crazyhorsememorial.org
Elanco Animal Health Associate Member livestock.novartis.com
Flower Mill
Florists-Retail flower-mill.com
Lowe’s Companies, Inc. Home Improvement-Retail lowes.com
Schock Companies Private Equity
Sioux Falls Amateur Baseball, LLC - SF Saints Baseball siouxfallssaints.com
SpeedConnect Internet Services speedconnect.com
FIRST YEAR REINVESTORS 605 Real Estate Real Estate realestate605.com
Allen Edge Real Estate Team Real Estate allenedge.com
Dakota Angler Bait & Tackle DakotaAngler.com
Great ATM Services
ATMs-Automated Teller Machines greatatmservices.com
Health Connect of South Dakota Associate Member healthconnectsd.org
Heyer Engineering, PC Engineers-Structural heyerengineering.com
Ignite
Networking Organization ignitesiouxfalls.com
Keller Williams Real Estate Patty Hauk Affiliate-Real Estate facebook.com/pattysellshomes
Land Home Financial Services Loans-Construction & Mortgage lhfs.com
McGreevy & Associates Insurance mcgreevyassociates.com
New Tec, Inc.
Forklift sales and service ntlifts.com
PAL, Inc.
Property Management
5 YEARS
3 Degrees Infrared Light Therapy Spas threedegrees.com
Vance Thompson Vision
Physicians & Surgeons-Refractive Surgery vancethompsonvision.com
PMI Sioux Empire, South Dakota Chapter Associate Member pmisd.org
Queen City Balloon Bar Party Supplies queencityballoons.com
Taxi by Mike
Taxi facebook.com/taxiby.mike.39
48 Chamber News | MAY 2018
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 Alexandra LeBlanc Alexandra LeBlanc joined the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitor’s Bureau this spring as their Director of Sales. LeBlanc has spent the last decade working in retail management for Best Buy. A Minneapolis native, her career has taken her from the Twin Cities to Des Moines to Sioux Falls – which she now proudly calls home.
What is one of Sioux Falls' best-kept secrets? The food. I am a huge foodie and love to go out and enjoy a nice meal. I have lived in Sioux Falls for about two years and when moving here I was shocked that Sioux Falls has over 700 eating establishments. There is an excellent array of cuisine and you get to choose from casual dining to formal dining.
What is your favorite place to take a visitor to in Sioux Falls? Falls Park! People are always blown away by the beauty no matter the time of year. The park offers some history with the Queen Bee Mill, amazing views at the Observation Tower, and can even satisfy your taste buds with the Overlook Café.
ALEXANDRA LeBLANC
Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau
What is one community or non-profit organization that you support? Tell us about it and why it is important to you. March of Dimes is one non-profit organization that I choose to support. I have a nephew that was born premature and seeing him fight through his first couple weeks has opened my eyes that about half a million babies are born each year premature or with birth defects in the U.S. This organization fights for the health of all moms and babies and ensures each baby has the best possible start in life.
What are you reading right now? How Top Performers Work Less and Achieve More by Morten Hansen.
What might someone be surprised to learn about you? I have been skydiving twice.
chambernews.com | Chamber News 49
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.
Postcard from the Past: 1908
These images of downtown Sioux Falls taken 100 years ago show the heart of a growing city. Pictured at top is a view of the current Uptown area looking toward the southeast. The Old Courthouse is framed by Dakota Avenue and Main Avenue running south. The picture below is taken from the East Bank looking west. Horse and buggy can be seen crossing the Big Sioux River via the Eighth Street bridge. This bridge was replaced a few years later in order to accommodate the city’s growing population and traffic loads. It’s replacement, built in 1912, remains standing today and is scheduled to undergo rehabilitation and upgrades in 2019.
50 Chamber News | MAY 2018
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