January 2017 Chamber News

Chamber News January 2017

Vol. 52, No. 4

A PUBLICATION OF THE SIOUX FALLS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CELEBRATING AGRICULTURE

Sweeter Family named Farm Family of the Year Evan Nolte named Agri-Business Citizen of the Year

ENJOY EVERY MOMENT

Menopause doesn’t have to be uncomfortable The Sanford Women’s Center for Midlife Health offers midlife care by a team of specialists with expertise in managing menopausal symptoms as well as well-woman gynecological and internal medicine care. As one of the only midlife health programs in the region, we work closely with women to ease the journey through menopause and midlife.

the Center for midlife health At the SAnford WoMen’S heAlth PlAzA

Call (605) 328-9700 to make an appointment or visit sanfordhealth.org keyword: midlife.

015000-00364 9/16

IN THIS ISSUE COVER STORY

Celebrating Agriculture.... 22-29

Chamber News FEATURES

Sweeter Family named Farm Family of the Year. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Evan Nolte named Agri-Business Citizen of the Year. . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 IN THIS ISSUE: Message from the Chair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Events Calendars. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11 Economic Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Noteworthy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Faces & Places. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-20 Community Appeals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Business Advocacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-33 Headlines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34-36

PUBLISHER

Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce CHAMBER NEWS AD SALES

ARGUS LEADER MEDIA For advertising information, call: (605) 977-3943

CHAMBER NEWS LAYOUT/DESIGN JILL BLOM

CHAMBER NEWS EDITOR

JENNIE DOYEN For editorial information, call: (605) 336-1620 Chamber News is published monthly by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 1425, 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200 Sioux Falls, SD 57104 Advertising and editorial deadlines can be found at siouxfallschamber.com under News & Publications.

Postmaster please send address changes to: Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 1425, 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200, Sioux Falls, SD 57101-1425 Phone: (605) 336-1620 • Email: sfacc@siouxfalls.com

Chamber Partner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

CHAMBER MISSION

Convention & Visitors Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

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.

Member Voice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Using Your Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Visitor Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Business News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Ribbon Cuttings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45-49 New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Membership Anniversaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Five Questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 From the Archive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

ON THE COVER Kurtis Sweeter combines soybeans on his family farm near Worthing, South Dakota. The Sweeter Family has been named the 2017 Farm Family of the Year. Photo courtesy Wendy Sweeter.

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

Plan to participate in 2017 The start of a new year is a natural time to make plans and set goals. We take stock of where we are and where we want to be in the future. Then, we try to figure out how we are going to get there.

Sioux Falls is successful and growing because we have community-minded leaders who are continually making plans for the future in an effort to build our economic health and quality of life. Your membership in the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce is one way that you play a role in strengthening our already strong foundation.

DAVE KAPASKA, D.O. 2016-17 Chair of the Board

Sioux Falls is successful and growing because we have community-minded leaders who are continually making plans for the future

Agriculture is South Dakota’s largest industry and is still a mainstay in the Sioux Falls area.

This is an industry that has evolved significantly in recent decades, using technology to become more productive and more efficient. Ag is a more than $25 billion industry in our state and while Sioux Falls’ economy has diversified over the years, agriculture still helps drive our local economy, too. We invite you to help us celebrate the role agriculture continues to play in our community at the 64th Annual Sioux Empire Farm Show in late January. With the help of hundreds of volunteers, we’ll welcome approximately 30,000 people to Sioux Falls for a week of shows and sales. Whether you were a farm kid or a city kid, visiting the Sioux Empire Farm Show is a chance to return to our community’s roots and recognize the people who continue to put food on our tables and play a major role in our statewide economy.

The state legislature convenes this month and we send our elected officials to Pierre to make decisions for the future of our state. Chamber representatives will be there as well, advocating on issues that may affect your business in the future. I encourage you to stay informed and involved in this process. The Good Morning Sioux Falls breakfast, Legislative Coffees, and Sioux Falls Day at the Legislature are great ways to be involved. You can also stay informed by reading the weekly email Chamber Advocate, following along on social media (@SFAreaAdvocate) and reviewing the weekly Bill Tracker. The Chamber aims to inform as well as provide context about issues and explain how decisions affect the business community.

Perhaps continued learning is part of your plans for the coming year. The Chamber offers a variety of personal and professional development opportunities. Our annual Business Sense Workshops begin this month and run weekly through March. These affordable learning lunches offer information that can help your business grow, along with a chance to network with other professionals.

Thank you for your continued support of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce.

Happy New Year!

2016-17 SIOUX FALLS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEADERSHIP AND STAFF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR DAVE KAPASKA, D.O.

Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center CHAIR-ELECT STEVE VAN BUSKIRK Van Buskirk Companies VICE CHAIR TIM STURDEVANT Sturdevant’s Auto Parts TREASURER BOBBI THURY Legacy Law Firm, P.C. IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR PAUL BRUFLAT CNA Surety PRESIDENT/CEO EVAN NOLTE Chamber of Commerce BOARD OF DIRECTORS BILL ALBRECHT WENDY BERGAN JDS Industries DAN DOYLE Cutler Law Firm GARY GASPAR Interstate Office Products SHARON HASELHOFF Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort MIKE HAUCK Accord Commercial Real Estate, LLC JOHN HENKHAUS The Everist Company JAY HUIZENGA KELOLAND-TV DEAN KARSKY Farmers Insurance Group/Karsky Agency LAURIE KNUTSON EmBe MARK MICKELSON Mickelson & Co. CHRISTY NICOLAISAN Multi-Cultural Center of Sioux Falls ALEX RAMIREZ USA Media TV CARL WYNJA U.S. Bank

EX-OFFICIO CINDY HEIBERGER Minnehaha County Commission MAYOR MIKE HUETHER City of Sioux Falls DR. BRIAN MAHER Superintendent, Sioux Falls Public School System JIM SCHMIDT Lincoln County Commission TODD THOELKE Sioux Falls School Board ROBERT WEHDE Sioux Falls Catholic Schools CHAMBER & CVB STAFF EVAN NOLTE President/CEO CLAY BAK CVB Sales Manager THANE BARNIER Web Development & IT Manager MATT BARTHEL CVB Communications Manager JOAN BARTLING Finance & Accounting Director JUSTIN BENTAAS Public Affairs & Research Manager JILL BLOM Graphics & Communications Specialist SHIRLEY BUSEMAN Receptionist CINDY CHRISTENSEN Agri-Business Division Manager RACHEL CRANE CVB Host City Manager JENNIE DOYEN Marketing & Communications Manager ANNA ELIASON CVB Sales Manager AMY M. FARR Membership Sales & Retention Manager JEFF FEJFAR Web Designer

LAUREN FOSHEIM Small Business & Leadership Development Manager MARY HUBLOU CVB First Impressions Manager/Project Assistant JAY KALTENBACH CVB Services/Resale Manager MARK LEE Public Affairs & Communications Director PAT LUND Membership Development Director MIKE LYNCH Forward Sioux Falls Director of Investor Relations JILL NIEDRINGHAUS CVB Sales Assistant WENDY NEUHARTH Membership Services Administrative Assistant KRISTA ORSACK CVB Director of Marketing KATHIE PUTHOFF CVB Administrative Assistant TERI SCHMIDT CVB Executive Director KAYLA SCHOLTEN Young Professionals Network Manager TERESA SCHREIER Public Affairs & Communications Assistant SUSAN SEACHRIS Administrative/Accounting Assistant EMILY SPERRY CVB Creative Development Manager TATE STENSGAARD CVB Sales Manager JACKIE WENTWORTH CVB Sales Manager VALERIE WILLSON Membership Events Manager ERIN ZIMMERMAN CVB Sales Manager

chambernews.com | Chamber News 5

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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 JANUARY MEMBERSHIP

MIXER

TUESDAY, JAN. 10

SPONSORED BY:

4:30-6:30 p.m.

Sanford Pentagon, 2210 W. Pentagon Pl. COMPLIMENTARY HORS D’OEUVRES & CASH BAR $5 ADMISSION OR USE YOUR MIXER PASS

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

GOOD MORNING SIOUX FALLS LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST WEDNESDAY, JAN. 4, 2017

7-8:30 a.m.

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

Management Council. Hear from Sioux Falls area legislators about their goals for the upcoming 2017 Legislative Session. Breakfast will be served.

COST $20 RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010

JANUARY BUSINESS SENSE WORKSHOPS TUESDAY, JAN. 10, 2017 TUESDAY, JAN. 17, 2017 TUESDAY, JAN 24, 2017

Noon-1 p.m.

Chamber of Commerce 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200 DETAILS: January workshops cover human-resource-related topics.

See page 39 for more information.

COST: $10, bring your own brown bag lunch.

RSVP: lfosheim@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2009

NEW MEMBER MIXER TUESDAY, JAN. 17, 2017

4:30-6 p.m.

Cherry Creek Grill, 3104 E. 26th St. DETAILS: New Chamber Members (or new employees to the community or anyone who would like to learn about volunteer opportunities) are invited to this Mixer to learn more about the Chamber and visit with other new Chamber members.

COST: Free RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010

SIOUX EMPIRE FARM SHOW TUESDAY, JAN. 24-SATURDAY, JAN. 28, 2017

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

DETAILS: Celebrate agriculture at the 64th Annual Sioux Empire Farm

Show! Livestock shows and sales take place throughout the week. Volunteer your time or come out to see the region’s best market and purebred livestock. The set-up day is Monday, Jan. 23 and tear-down is Sunday, Jan. 29.

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

MAYOR’S ROUND-UP AND SALE OF CHAMPIONS FRIDAY, JAN. 27, 2017

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

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

RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010

SIOUX FALLS AREA LEGISLATIVE COFFEES SATURDAY, FEB. 4, 2017 SATURDAY, FEB. 11, 2017 SATURDAY, FEB. 25, 2017

10:00-11:45 a.m.

Ramada Hotel & Suites, Galley Ballroom, 1301 W. Russell St. DETAILS: Includes Districts 6, 9-16, and 25. More details will follow about the district assignments for each date.

SIOUX FALLS DAY AT THE LEGISLATURE WEDNESDAY, FEB. 22, 2017

Depart for Pierre: 6:15 a.m., Empire Mall parking lot Luncheon: Noon, State Capitol DETAILS: Be part of the lobbying team in Pierre for Sioux Falls Day at

the Legislature! You can listen in on committee meetings, help host a luncheon at the Capitol, and attend general session. Sponsorship opportunities are also available; contact the Chamber for details.

COST: $30 to ride the bus, $25 to attend the lunch RSVP: tschreier@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2050

BUSINESS DAY AT THE LEGISLATURE THURSDAY, FEB. 23, 2017

Pierre, SD DETAILS: Sponsored by the South Dakota Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 7

JANUARY-JUNE 2017

MIXERCalendar

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

TUESDAY

JAN. 10, 2017

CO-SPONSORED BY:

4:30-6:30 p.m.

Sanford Pentagon 2210 W. Pentagon Pl.

TUESDAY

SPONSORED BY:

FEB. 21, 2017

4:30-6:30 p.m.

Butterfly House & Marine Cove 4320 S. Oxbow Ave.

TUESDAY

SPONSORED BY:

MARCH 14, 2017 4:30-6:30 p.m.

El Riad Shrine 510 S. Phillips Ave.

TUESDAY

APRIL 11, 2017

CO-SPONSORED BY:

4:30-6:30 p.m.

DakotAbilities Longfellow Center 1116 S. 4th Ave.

TUESDAY

SPONSORED BY:

MAY 9, 2017

4:30-6:30 p.m.

A-OX Welding Supply Co. Inc 101 N. Harlem Ave.

THURSDAY

JUNE 15, 2017

SPONSORED BY:

4:30-7 p.m.

Sioux Falls Convention Center 1201 N. West Ave.

The June Mixer includes the 17th Annual Business Fair, which features Chamber members displaying information about their businesses. Reserve your booth today – call Valerie Willson at (605) 373-2010.

COMPLIMENTARY HORS D’OEUVRES • BEVERAGES AVAILABLE $5 ADMISSION OR USE YOUR MIXER PASS (pictured left) If you purchased a 2016-17 Mixer Pass, it is good through the September 2017 Mixer. The 2017-18 Mixer Pass will be valid from October 2017-September 2018 and will be available for purchase beginning September 2017.

UPCOMING EVENTS To RSVP to any of these events, email kscholten@siouxfalls.com or call (605) 373-2002. Visit siouxfallsypn.com for a full list of events.

SOCIAL ACTION TEAM MEETING TUESDAY, JAN. 3 4-5 p.m.

Chamber of Commerce 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200

DETAILS: The YPN Social Team meets the first Tuesday of the month and is open to any member looking to get more involved. The Social Team focuses on social events that showcase our community while providing a positive environment for networking, socializing and developing connections.

COST: Free to attend, open to everyone!

MORNING BUZZ - SOUTH WEDNESDAY, JAN. 4 7:30-8:30 a.m.

Panera Bread 5117 S. Louise Ave.

DETAILS: Network with other YPN members

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

Come for the coffee, stay for the conversation!

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

MORNING BUZZ - DOWNTOWN WEDNESDAY, JAN. 4 7:30-8:30 a.m.

Pappy’s 101 S. Phillips Ave.

DETAILS: Network with other YPN members

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

Come for the coffee, stay for the conversation!

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

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS TOUR: DAKOTA LIONS SIGHT & HEALTH TUESDAY, JAN. 10

FOCUS WORKSHOP: FINANCIAL PLANNING IN YOUR 30s WEDNESDAY, JAN. 18

DETAILS: Dakota Lions Sight & Health is the

DETAILS: Growing up is hard. Attend our Janu-

Noon-1 p.m.

Dakota Lions Sight & Health 4501 W. 61st St.

only human eye and tissue donation and transplantation organization based in the Dakotas.

They recover, process, and distribute eye tissue to transplanting surgeons in the local service area and throughout the world. Their state-ofthe-art headquarters facility has two surgical recovery suites and is located in Sioux Falls.

Additionally, they have remote offices in Rapid City, Bismarck, and Fargo. This year, they are on track to restore sight to over 1,200 people through corneal transplantation and thousands more will have restored health through tissue transplantation. In addition to transplantation, they offer research donation and other educational opportunities to the community.

SUMMIT LIVING YOUR MISSION

ary workshop to learn about how to select a financial adviser, risk protection, and much more!

PRESENTED BY: Graham Van Horn, President of Van Horn Financial Services COST: $5, bring your own lunch.

NEW MEMBER MIXER THURSDAY, JAN. 19

5-7 p.m.

Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews 2616 S. Louise Ave. DETAILS: New to YPN? Check out the New

Dakota Lions Sight & Health will provide light refreshments for YPN Members. There are limited spots available and this tour is open to YPN members only.

COST: Free

Member Mixer at Sickies! Meet other new YPN members and learn more about how to get involved with the YPN. This is an open event, so come when you can and stay for as long as you can!

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

MEMBERSHIP TEAM MEETING WEDNESDAY, JAN. 11

JANUARY OFF THE CLOCK THURSDAY, JAN. 26

4-5 p.m.

Chamber of Commerce 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200

DETAILS: The YPN Membership Team focuses

on membership engagement, growth and retention, and is open to ANY member looking to get more involved and have an input on YPN events and activities. The Membership Team meets the second Wednesday every other month. Join us!

COST: Free to attend, open to everyone!

2 01 7

Cross roads

Noon-1 p.m.

Chamber of Commerce 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 200

4-7 p.m.

McNally’s Irish Pub 6211 S. Old Village Pl.

DETAILS: This month’s Off the Clock will be

held at McNally’s Irish Pub! Off the Clock is a great way to build business connections and make new friends. Bring a co-worker or friend and enjoy mingling with people of the Sioux Falls Area community. See you there!

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

Connect WITH THE

SAVE THE DATE

YPN

Sioux Falls Young Professionals Network

Thursday, Aug. 17, 2017

.com/siouxfallsypn

Sioux Falls Convention Center

@siouxfallsypn

Find us on social media or visit siouxfallsypn.com

chambernews.com | Chamber News 9

JANUARY Events listed are compiled from siouxfallsevents.com and visitsiouxfallsevents.com.

Siouxfallsevents.com is the community’s free, comprehensive community events calendar. Anyone can post an event happening in the Sioux Falls area. It’s free and it’s a great way to promote your event.

The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau developed the visitor-related calendar to provide visitors a list of events they may be interested in attending.

By combining the calendars, you can see when there’s going to be a large number of visitors in the community and learn about events and activities you want to attend.

For more information about visitor-related activities, contact the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau at (605) 275-6060. Learn more details about any of the following events by logging on or contact the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce at (605) 336-1620.

6

Old Courthouse Museum Winter Concert Series: Bryan Bowers

4-8

Cirque du Soleil: Ovo

6-8

Dance Gallery Presents Ballet Coppelia

7-8

Benson’s Flea Market

7-8

Frosty Frolics

8

Eli Young Band

10

USHL/NHL Top Prospects Game

12

Aaron Watson

12 RASDAK 13

Atmosphere with Brother Ali, Dem Atlast and More

13

Old Courthouse Museum Winter Concert Series: Johnson McKinney Quartet

13

Big Band Ballroom Dance

14

Super 2nd Saturday

14

Christmas with the Animals

14

Eric Church: Holdin’ My Own Tour

14

Balleraena Presents: Snow White & the Seven Dwarves

18-19

2017 Ag Expo

19-22

SECT Presents: Calendar Girls

20

Old Courthouse Museum Winter Concert Series: Dakota Wind Quintet

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10 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

20

The Magic of Bill Blaag Live

7

It’s in the Bag

20-21

Monster Jam

8

An Evening with Dawes

21 KIX

9

Mads Tolling and Mads Men

22

10

Big Band Ballroom Dance

24-26 STOMP

10-11

Twilight Flights for Valentine’s Day

25-27

Sioux Falls Farm Show

11

Winger with Special Guests Fire House

25-28

Sioux Empire Farm Show

11

Datsik with Special Guests Crizzly and Virtual Riot

27

Mayor’s Round-Up and Sale of Champions

11

Sioux Empire on Tap

26-29

SECT Presents: Calendar Girls

14-15

Into the Woods

27

Old Courthouse Museum Winter Concert Series: Marty DeWitt

16

Sioux Falls Go Red for Women

27

Shemekia Copeland

18

Spring Fever Shopping Market

27

Cleaver’s Chef Challenge

18

WinterFeast Fundraiser

28

Ice Fish Fest

19

Dierks Bentley: What the Hell Tour 2017

28-29

Valentine’s Cheer and Dance

19

SEWN Bridal Show

24-5-Mar

SECT Presents: Vanya and Sonia and Marsha and Spike

23

Brothers Osborne

Professional Image Wedding Showcase

FEBRUARY 2-5

SECT Presents: Calendar Girls

24-26

Sioux Empire Home Show

3-5

Winterfest of Wheels

26

103.7 KRRO Presents: Dropkick Murphys

4-5

Benson’s Flea Market

28

Jim Witter: I Write the Songs

4

Twenty One Pilots

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chambernews.com | Chamber News 11

ECONOMIC INDICATORS Tracking trends in business is just one way that the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce is looking out for our members. Sioux Falls is a great place to do business, in part because of its diverse economy. Check here for economic indicators that help show growth and development.

City of Sioux Falls Building Permit Data

Regional Unemployment Rates

NOVEMBER 2016 2014

OCTOBER 2016

14,566 PERMITS

2015

11,776 PERMITS

2016

Bismarck 1.9%

7,124 PERMITS

0 3000 Source: City of Sioux Falls

6000

9000

12000

15000

City of Sioux Falls Total Construction Value

Fargo 1.8%

Rapid City 2.6%

NOVEMBER 2016

Sioux Falls 1.9%

700

Total Construction Value

600

Minneapolis/ St. Paul 3.1%

Omaha Lincoln 3.2% 2.8%

New Non-Residential Construction Value

500

Rochester 2.6% Cedar Rapids 3.5% Des Moines 3.3%

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

400

Agriculture Trends OCTOBER 2016

300

$653.5 million $273.8 million

$648.2 million $237.6 million

200

0

(PER BUSHEL) U.S. SOUTH DAKOTA

$10 (IN MILLIONS)

100

SOYBEANS

$12

$9.43

$9.30

$8.81 $9.02

$568.6 million $76.1 million

2014 2014

$8

2015 2015

$8.91

$8.43

2016 2016

Source: City of Sioux Falls

CORN

6 $6

(PER BUSHEL) U.S. SOUTH DAKOTA

Sioux Falls Region Housing Overview NOVEMBER 2016

$4

New Listings: 352 Days on the Market Until Sale: 89 Median Sales Price: $179,900 Inventory of Homes for Sale: 1,271 Source: RASE (Realtor Association of the Sioux Empire)

$3.67 $3.22

$3.29

$2.93

$3.09

$3.37

$2

October

2015

September October

2016

Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture

2016

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.

South Dakota ag by the numbers

98%

2,500

number of South Dakota farms that are family owned and operated.

number of South Dakota farms that have been in the same family for more than 100 years

1,353

46,000

number of acres in an average South Dakota farm

31,000

number of farms or ranches in the state.

number of producers in South Dakota

$25.6 billion the economic impact of agriculture on our state each year.

122,000

number of South Dakotans employed by agriculture and its value-added industries.

29

the number of cuts of beef that meet government guidelines for lean.

Source: South Dakota Department of Agriculture chambernews.com | Chamber News 13

FACES & PLACES

Faces & Places

Our members do more than follow the news. They make the news. Job promotions and hirings. New projects. New partnerships.

Awards. Every day we hear about exciting accomplishments, historic milestones and other positive aspects of our member businesses that deserve to be shared.

JAY RASMUSSEN

LARRY AYRES Ayres Group

American Bank & Trust

STEFANIE ENGEBRETSON

CINDI JOHNSON

DAVID JOHNSON

Journey Group Companies

American Bank & Trust

Spectrum Marketing Services

JULIE NELSON

DAREN ANDERSON Big D Technology Solutions, Inc.

DAKOTACARE

Recognition of Chamber Volunteers The Ambassador Top Sales Award for the month of December went to Jay Rasmussen, Journey Group Companies. The Ambassador Ribbon Cutting Attendance Award went to Larry Ayres, Ayres Group.

Trust, was awarded third place honors. The ribbon cutting attendance award went to Cindi Johnson, Spectrum Marketing Services and the Reinvestment Award went to David Johnson, DAKOTACARE.

Julie Nelson, American Bank & Trust was awarded Diplomat of the Month honors for November. Second place honors went to Daren Anderson, Big D Technology Solutions, Inc. Stefanie Engebretson, American Bank &

The Diplomat Team of the Month for November was: Captain Janel Cole, Cole Notary, LLC; Julie Nelson, American Bank & Trust; Sheila Hoff, Keller Williams Realty of Sioux Falls; Jim Slater, ServiceMaster of Sioux Falls; and Austin Nielsen, Austin Nielsen Real Estate.

Faces & Places is great way to use your membership to be seen. This column appears each month in Chamber News and features information about Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce members and volunteers. Submissions may include grand openings, changes in management, moves, expansions, major developments and award recognition. Submit news using the Faces & Places form at chambernews.com or email jdoyen@siouxfalls.com.

14 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

FACES & PLACES

New Faces & Promotions Rainbow International Restoration has promoted three employees and hired one.

Melissa Baysore has been promoted to Mitigation and Program Division Manager.

She is responsible for all emergency services and national account work. Wade Hutchinson has been promoted to Reconstruction Division Manager, responsible for all rebuild services.

Julie Redlin has been promoted to Business Development Associate. She is responsible for increasing market presence by building relationships with current and potential clients.

Carissa Gagnon has been hired as Office Manager, responsible for all office functions including accounting, receptionist and customer service duties.

Sioux Falls Psychological Services is pleased to announce new members to its team.

Dr. Amy Marschall, Licensed Psychologist, provides assessment and therapy services to children and adolescents. Her areas of expertise include ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder; learning, adaptive, and functional assessments; trauma, abuse, anxiety, and depression. Dr. Erik Lohmann, Psychology

Resident, provides therapy and assessment. He specializes in providing evaluations (forensic or court-ordered, memory and cognitive, attention/concentration, and psychological) as well as in the areas of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, and anxiety. The central office has added Carrie Handbury as the Business Manager and Jodi Callahan as office assistant.

MetaBank has hired Nicholas Ensz as Business Intelligence Manager. MetaBank also promoted four employees: Laurie Moeller was promoted to vice president of Human Resources; Kristy Moss was promoted to operations director of Human Resources; Beau Hudelson was promoted to senior financial analyst; and Alice Beyer was promoted to vice president of Partner Services.

Three new employees have joined AmesburyTruth. Joshua Larson joined the leadership team as Director of Operations, responsible for manufacturing, quality, and continuous improvement for multiple manufacturing plants. Kendra McGuire joined

Leadership

Honors & Awards

Sioux Falls Seminary welcomes Eric Yunag, Convergint Technologies and Paul Pankratz, Pastor at Oak Hills Baptist Church, to its Board of Trustees.

J&L Harley-Davidson and the Entenman family received the 2016 Boyd Hopkins, Sr. Excellence in Family Business Award.

Good Deeds Independent Insurance Agents of Sioux Falls has demonstrated support for improving learning opportunities for students by donating $10,000 to the Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation. The new partnership will boost the Education Foundation’s Innovation in Education Grant Program for teachers.

Sioux Falls Seminary recognized the several individuals with their annual Excellence Awards. Dr. Rhoda Carpenter, Assistant Professor of Hebrew Bible, received the Powell Award for Excellence in Service by Faculty. Greg Henson, President of Sioux Falls Seminary, received the Rauschenbusch Award for Excellence in Service by Administration.

Megan Miller, Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapy Intern, received the Zimbelman Award for Excellence in Service

as Senior Accountant responsible for general accounting, payroll, fixed assets, budgeting and forecasting. Tyler Welbig is a Design Engineer responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of new and existing products.

In addition, two AmesburyTruth employees were promoted: Tim Binder was promoted to Director of Global Supply Chain; James Larson was promoted to the Chief Operating Officer.

The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System has made several promotions and new hires.

Heather Berard, MSW, CSW, PIP has been promoted to Social Work Executive/Homeless Coordinator. Denise Schwardt is the new Administrative Officer for Extended Care & Rehab Service Line. Matt McDougal, MD is the Mental Health Service Line Medical Director. Rose Riley, DDS, is Chief of Dental Service. David Scott is Assistant Chief, Environmental Management Service. Robert Price is the Chief of Pastoral Care. Deborah Ford is Logistics Officer.

through Sioux Falls Psychological Services.

Jeremy Bill, Sammons Financial Group and Chair of the Board of Trustees at Sioux Falls Seminary, received the Schmeltekopf Award for Excellence in Volunteer Service.

The Sioux Falls Business Resource Network recognized TownePlace Suites by Marriott Sioux Falls South and GreatLIFE Performance & Fitness Center (Southeastern Avenue) with a Disability Friendly Recognition Program award.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 15

FACES & PLACES

Be Seen

1

2 1-3 The December Membership Mixer was hosted by The District. Approximately 260 people attended the event.

16 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

3

FACES & PLACES

4

5

6

7 4-5 Governor Dennis Daugaard shared details of his proposed state budget with Chamber members and area legislators at a breakfast at the Best Western PLUS Ramkota in early December. 6-7 Midco Business Engineering Manager Jason Maki discussed the Internet of Things with members of the Young Professionals Network at a recent Focus Workshop. Attendees had the unique opportunity to experience virtual reality goggles. 8 South Dakota Chamber of Commerce & Industry President David Owen presented a pre-legislative update to Chamber members and area legislators.

8 chambernews.com | Chamber News 17

FACES & PLACES

Be Seen

9

10

11

9-15 A retirement party and celebration of service was held on Dec. 8, 2016 to honor longtime Chamber President & CEO Evan Nolte. An open house at the Chamber offices in the afternoon was followed by an evening gathering at The Country Club of Sioux Falls. Approximately 300 guests attended the event to express well wishes to Nolte as he prepares for retirement. A throwbackstyle ribbon cutting ceremony featured current and past leadership from the Board, Ambassadors and Diplomats. Guests were able to get their picture taken with “Flat Evan”.

12 18 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

FACES & PLACES

13

14

15

chambernews.com | Chamber News 19

FACES & PLACES

Be Seen 16-19 Members of the Young Professionals Network enjoy the annual holiday party, the Kringle. The event was held Dec. 1, 2016 at the Washington Pavilion’s Everist Gallery. The 165 guests in attendance were able to win a door prize by donating to the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House and the Saint Francis House.

16

17

19 20 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

18

COMMUNITY APPEALS SIOUX FALLS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Community Appeals Scheduled Fund Drives The purpose of the Community Appeals Committee is to qualify and provide orderly scheduling of capital fund drives.

The committee has a responsibility to discourage unnecessary or overlapping drives, to assess funds available in the Sioux Falls business community, and to provide input on realistic drive goals.

Capital fund drive applications will be accepted by the committee until Aug. 1 of any one year and the suggested solicitation amount and time slot for approved drives will be determined and scheduled by the committee no later than February of the following year.

CURRENT CAMPAIGN

BUTTERFLY HOUSE & MARINE COVE APRIL 1-JULY 31, 2017 $1.26 MILLION Expand public aquarium exhibits in the Marine Cove

LEVITT AT THE FALLS NOV. 1, 2016-MARCH 31, 2017 $1.06 MILLION

STOCKYARDS AG EXPERIENCE NOV. 1, 2017-MARCH 31, 2018 $1.19 MILLION

Create an outdoor concert venue in Sioux Falls, partnering with non-profit Levitt Pavilions

Create a living heritage outdoor plaza on the site of the original Sioux Falls Stockyards

GREAT PLAINS ZOO & DELBRIDGE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY APRIL 1-JULY 31, 2018 $1.41 MILLION

For more information on the Community Appeals Committee, call Mike Lynch at (605) 373-2008.

Create a new “Big Cats of Africa” exhibit

A GOOD BANK CAN HELP ACCOUNT FOR YOUR BOTTOM LINE.

A GOOD RELATIONSHIP

CAN HELP YOU ACCOUNT FOR YOUR DREAMS. Bill Berry

President, Northern Extrusion Tooling

“ In tough times, you need support from your bank.

Once we knew we had that support, everything changed.

That’s part of the reason we’re here today.”

AccountForYourDreams.com

chambernews.com | Chamber News 21

CELEBRATING AGRICULTURE Each year the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce Agri-Business Division recognizes a Farm Family of the Year and an Agri-Business Citizen(s) of the Year. A subcommittee of the Agri-Business Division nominates deserving families and agri-business citizens to be considered for the award and the voting members of the Agri-Business Council choose the winners.

For 2017, the Chamber is honoring the Sweeter Family of Worthing, S.D., as the Farm Family of the Year. Evan Nolte, who will soon retire from his position as President & CEO of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, is the Agri-Business Citizen of the Year. Both the Sweeters and Nolte will be recognized at the Mayor´s Round-Up & Sale of Champions at the Sioux Empire Farm Show and at the Agri-Business Division Annual Meeting in the spring. The Farm Family also shares their expertise by participating in the Chamber´s Agri-Business Division Council for a year.

a $25.6 billion industry in South Dakota, agriculture has an ongoing impact on the Sioux Falls area economy.

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

Since 1998, the Chamber has partnered with Midwest Shows, Inc., for the commercial exhibitor farm show events. Headquartered in Austin, Minn., Midwest Shows sells commercial exhibit space for the show. The commercial exhibit portion of the two shows is called the “Sioux Falls Farm Show,” with both shows being featured as “Sioux Falls’ Salute to Agriculture.” The Sioux Falls Farm Show exhibits are a three-day show.

Each year in January, area agricultural producers and members of the Sioux Falls area business community gather to participate in a variety of events that highlight the importance of agriculture in the region. This year marks the 64th Anniversary of the Chamber-sponsored Sioux Empire Farm Show. More than 30,000 people attend the Sioux Empire Farm Show each year, and the event has an estimated economic impact of $3 million. As

22 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

The success of the Farm Show is directly related to the efforts of several area businesses, individuals and producers who devote their time and talents. For several decades, the Sioux Falls business community has supported area producers by bidding on the best livestock from the Farm Show and paying a premium to the producers during the Sale of Champions. The Sioux Empire Farm Show recognizes the many ways agriculture has impacted the economy, local citizens and the entire community.

COVER STORY

FARM FAMILY OF THE YEAR THE SWEETER FAMILY

The Sweeter Family is the 2017 Farm Family of the Year. The family farms near Worthing. Fourth-generation farmer, Ken Sweeter and his wife, Marlene pictured with their sons, Kurtis (middle) with wife, Wendy and Mike (far right) with wife, Jennifer. Grandchildren, right to left include: Kurtis and Wendy’s son, Bode, 6, and daughter, Karin, 10, and Jennifer and Mike’s son, Kade, 4, and daughter, Aubree, 2. Photo by Lura Roti.

Sweeter family honored as 2017 Farm Family of the Year

BY LURA ROTI

For the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

The sun isn’t shining and South Dakota winds are gusting, but that doesn’t seem to faze cousins Bode Sweeter, 6, and Kade Sweeter, 4, who are goofing around in a pickup bed while their parents and grandpa work cattle.

It’s the first Saturday in December and three generations of Sweeters are gathered to pregnancy check a group of heifers on their farm just outside of Worthing.

liked the way of life, so I’m glad our kids have some of the same opportunities we did. They get to be around animals, do chores and develop a good work ethic.”

Wendy grew up on a farm near Hartford. The agriculture journalist met Ken’s son, Kurtis, 36, when they were both students at South Dakota State University and judging together on the collegiate meat judging team.

“There’s no better place to raise kids than on a farm. Here they have room to play and run around and we don’t have to worry about them getting into trouble,” says Grandpa Ken Sweeter, 66.

Although they didn’t meet until college, the couple share many similar childhood memories. Growing up on South Dakota farms in the ’90s they were both 4-H and FFA members and spent time showing and judging livestock at area county fairs as well as the Sioux Empire Fair and Sioux Empire Farm Show.

Agreeing with the fourth-generation farmer, his daughter-inlaw, Wendy, 36, added, “I enjoyed growing up on a farm and

After they married, returning to Kurtis’ family farm to start their life together made sense. Actively involved in his family’s chambernews.com | Chamber News 23

COVER STORY

farm since childhood, it was Kurtis’ goal to return home after college and farm with his dad and younger brother, Mike.

“Farming gets ingrained in you. There’s just something about being able to work out in the dirt and with cattle – getting dirty and seeing calves born, crops grow and see what you care for do well,” explained Kurtis, who received his master’s in meat science in 2004.

With degrees in hand, the couple who married in 2003, returned to the farm to work and raise their family. Unlike both of their dads, who a generation earlier made a fulltime career of farming, both Kurtis and Wendy maintain off-farm careers.

Wendy served as editor of one of the state’s largest agriculture newspapers, the Tri-State Neighbor, resigning in 2012 to spend more time with their young children, Karin, 10, and Bode, 6. Today, she is self-employed as a photographer and freelance journalist and serves as the assistant editor of The Cattle Business Weekly.

Kurtis works fulltime as an assistant procurement manager in charge of animal handling for Smithfield (formerly John Morrell).

24 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

Juggling farming and a full-time career means Kurtis’ days begin around 4 a.m. and during harvest and calving can run until 10 p.m. or midnight.

Obviously, it would have been easier for Kurtis to work full-time on the farm, but that isn’t the reality for him or his brother, Mike, 30, who also puts in 12-18 hour days farming and working full-time as a combine mechanic for Sioux International.

The men cite the cost of land and its scarcity as the largest challenge to farming full-time. However, neither has let this obstacle stand in the way of their passion for farming.

“We look for opportunities where they present themselves,” Kurtis explained. “We aren’t afraid to pasture our cattle 30 miles from home if that’s where the opportunity is.”

The brothers rent some crop acres, but they have focused most of their expansion dollars on increasing their cow/calf herd by leasing pastureland, which is most often not desirable for farming, therefore rent is much less. “We rent land from Worthing to south of Canton and south of Centerville. We have 10 head here and 20 head there – renting small 20-acre

COVER STORY

THE SWEETER FAMILY The Sweeter family has been farming in southeast South Dakota since the 1880s.

Family: Ken and Marlene Sweeter; Kurtis and Wendy Sweeter and children, Karin (10) and Bode (6) and Mike and Jennifer Sweeter and children: Kade (4) and Aubree (2) Hometown: Worthing, SD Types of crops: Corn, soybeans and alfalfa Types of livestock: Cow/calf herd OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT: Each December, with the help of their local veterinarian, the Sweeter family pregnancy checks their herd of more than 100 cows and heifers. This helps the farm family plan ahead for calving, which usually begins with heifers (first time mothers) in February. Photo courtesty Lura Roti. OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP RIGHT: Bode and Grandpa Ken Sweeter. OPPOSITE PAGE, BOTTOM RIGHT: Karin Sweeter with her steer. THIS PAGE: Mike Sweeter working on the grain truck during the harvest. Photos courtesy Wendy Sweeter.

or so pieces of land, it’s a lot to manage, but at the same rate, it allows us to have the cow herd we have,” Kurtis explains.

“If there is something I think I can fix or make better, I want to try. If there is an organization I think I can help, then I do.”

“Times are different,” Mike added. “In today’s world you have to do this to have the land you need. You are not going to have land available right around your home – you have to expand out. There are farmers who drive farther than us.”

She credits her parents, Gilbert and Rosemary Mohrhauser, with instilling this mindset.

Although the brothers and their dad share crop ground, pasture, labor and equipment, they keep their farm finances separate, splitting costs for rent and inputs, like seed, fertilizer and fuel.

When it comes to marketing, the Sweeters market their corn and soybeans to local grain cooperatives or ethanol plants.

They sell their cattle at the Sioux Falls Regional Livestock auction market in Worthing, which is within sight of their house.

“You can’t beat the freight rate,” joked Mike.

Mike and Kurtis both live within a few miles of their childhood home where Ken and their mom, Marlene, who works as Lincoln County auditor, continue to live. Mike and his wife, Jennifer, have two young children, Kade, 4, and Aubree, 2. Jennifer works as a nurse at Sanford.

“We were always involved in church and 4-H – growing up on the farm, the things we kids looked forward to most each summer were the bookmobile, swimming lessons and getting ready for the Sioux Empire Fair,” Wendy said.

Wendy has helped with the Sioux Empire Farm Show in one capacity or another since 2000 when, as a freshman in college, she was asked to help with the youth livestock judging contest. Wendy served on the Chamber Ag Committee for 11 years and was the 2011-2012 chair.

“The Sioux Empire Farm Show is so important to our community. It showcases agriculture while bringing together people from all over the state and region to show and sell livestock,” Wendy said.

Together, the couple is also involved in their church and volunteer their time to help put on 4-H and FFA livestock and meat judging contest.

Although work keeps the families busy, they make time to get involved. “I’m terrible at saying ‘no,’” said Wendy, who has volunteered her time and served on numerous boards and committees helping agricultural organizations across the state. chambernews.com | Chamber News 25

COVER STORY

AGRI-BUSINESS CITIZEN OF THE YEAR EVAN NOLTE

Supporting agriculture and the Sioux Falls agri-business community

BY LURA ROTI

For the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

As South Dakota’s number one industry, agriculture’s economic reach extends well beyond the state’s rural communities. Its strength has protected Sioux Falls’ business community from some tough economic times, explained Evan Nolte, Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO. “I often point out that during the recent recession, it was clearly the strength of the state’s agriculture industry that helped insulate Sioux Falls from facing the same dramatic impacts other parts of the country saw,” said the 2017 AgriBusiness Citizen of the Year.

Since the beginning of his 37-year career with the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, Nolte has strongly supported the Sioux Falls’ agribusiness community.

“He realizes the economic impact agriculture has on our community. It’s the driving force behind our state’s economy and he understands this,” said Cindy Christensen, AgriBusiness Division Manager.

Nolte explained that from the beginning, the important role 26 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

agriculture played in the Sioux Falls business community was made clear to him. “Over the years I’ve had excellent mentors within the business and agri-business community of Sioux Falls. I learned right away of the valuable role and importance agriculture plays in this community,” said Nolte, who will retire this February.

Each year, the annual Sioux Empire Farm Show celebrates this valued relationship. The event welcomes more than 30,000 exhibitors, vendors and visitors. Not to mention several hundred cows, sheep, goats and pigs. In addition, the Chamber partners with Midwest Shows, Inc. who hosts commercial ag exhibitors.

Nolte said the combined event provides an excellent opportunity for Sioux Falls area residents to engage with their rural neighbors and learn more about the people and industry of agriculture.

“This winter event showcases the connection between the area’s agriculture producers and their agri-business partners,” he said. “The Farm Show is a vivid reminder of the interdependence we have. For the city of Sioux Falls to succeed, livestock producers, farmers and agribusiness need to do well.”

COVER STORY

EVAN NOLTE Family: Wife, Lesley; sons: Mike (Carmen), Portland, Ore.; James, San Diego; John (Cathy), Roosevelt, Utah; Ryan (Erica), Plymouth, Minn.; eight grandchildren Education: Bachelor of Arts degree, Augustana College (now University) Little-known fact: Nolte’s first career choice was to become a veterinarian. Instead, he changed course and studied political science and business administration.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Evan Nolte, 2017 Agri-Business Citizen of the Year, stands near the Commerce Center in Downtown Sioux Falls, home of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. THIS PAGE: Nolte is pictured with winners and buyers from the Sioux Empire Farm Show’s Mayor’s RoundUp and Sale of Champions in years 2004, 2005 and 2009.

No sooner does one Farm Show end than preparation for the next year’s event begins. Since his arrival, shortly after the 1979 Farm Show, Nolte has played an active role, serving on the Sale of Champions Buyers Committee. He and the committee works to solicit pledges from individuals and area business to provide premiums for Farm Show livestock exhibitors and champions. In 2016, more than $75,000 was raised at the event.

“He genuinely understands the importance of the Sioux Empire Farm Show to area agriculture producers and agribusinesses,” Christensen said.

Over the years, Nolte says just like the rest of the Sioux Falls’ business community, he has watched agriculture evolve.

“Technology has dramatically changed things,” he said.

He is concerned about the current downturn in crop and livestock markets and the impact it has already had on the Sioux Falls area. “We have weathered down cycles in the farm economy before and we will weather this one together.”

Although Nolte didn’t grow up on a farm or ranch, he did spend childhood summers working at his uncle’s Iowa farm and feed store. “I just loved hauling feed with my uncle, driving around the country making farm feed deliveries,” Nolte recalled.

Those summer visits inspired Nolte’s initial career aspirations to become a veterinarian. As an out of state student, competition and quotas to get into the veterinary program at Iowa State University however, quickly put an end to that dream. Nolte decided to pursue his other passion – political science and economics. He graduated from Augustana College (now University) with degrees in political science and business administration. Before Sioux Falls, Nolte served in leadership roles for chamber of commerce organizations in Nebraska City, Nebraska; Yankton, South Dakota; St. Joseph, Missouri and Mason City, Iowa.

“I enjoyed a great career because I’ve been given the opportunity to work with business professionals, community leaders, agriculture leaders and a great Chamber and CVB staff. Together, we have worked on issues and projects that benefit the community and area. I feel that has had a positive impact on people’s lives in the Sioux Falls area and the state of South Dakota,” Nolte explained.

To learn more about Evan Nolte, the 2017 Agri-Business Citizen of the Year, read the November 2016 issue of Chamber News.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 27

2017 SIOUX EMPIRE FARM SHOW MAYOR’S ROUND-UP & SALE OF CHAMPIONS MAYOR’S ROUND-UP & SALE OF CHAMPIONS FRIDAY, JAN. 27 BEST WESTERN PLUS RAMKOTA EXHIBIT HALL 5:30 p.m. Social 6:30 p.m. Dinner 7:30 p.m. Program/Auction Cost: Individual tickets are $45/per person with reserved tables of eight, includes prime rib dinner RSVP to Valerie Willson or call (605) 373-2010.

WHY SHOULD YOU PARTICIPATE IN THE SALE OF CHAMPIONS?

HOW DOES THE SALE OF CHAMPIONS WORK?

FUN!

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

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

LOCAL RECOGNITION

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

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

SUPPORT THE VISITOR INDUSTRY

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

Livestock is auctioned by the head. This means the dollar amount you bid is the dollar amount you pay. Livestock can be purchased by cooperative bidders. Partnering with another business is a great way to bump up the premiums for the producers.

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

SUPPORT THE AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY

Agriculture is South Dakota´s No. 1 industry, generating annual revenues of $20.9 billion. By participating, you show your support for the regional agricultural community.

SUPPORT THE SIOUX EMPIRE FARM SHOW

The Sale of Champions is a big incentive for producers to attend the Sioux Empire Farm Show. In 2016, more than $75,000 was paid out to 25 market livestock producers in cash awards and bids. By showing financial support yourself or through your business, you are able to support agriculture and promote the region´s largest market and purebred livestock show. A successful Sale of Champions encourages these livestock producers to return to the Sioux Empire Farm Show.

siouxempirefarmshow.org 28 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

Sioux Falls, S.D. — Jan. 24-28, 2017 • W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds, Expo Building

2017 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

TUESDAY, JAN. 24 4:30 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . Ribbon Cutting (Expo Building) 5 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4H/FFA Invitational Calf Shows

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 25 8 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8:30 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . .

8:30 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . .

11:30 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . .

1 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4:30 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Market Barrow & Gilt Show Angus Show Simmental Show Simmental Sale Angus Sale Ribbon Cutting (Convention Center)

THURSDAY, JAN. 26 8 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

9:30 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . .

9:30 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . .

11:30 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . .

12:30 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . .

2 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2:45 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . .

6 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Hereford Show Charolais Show Red Angus Show Limousin Show Hereford Sale Charolais Sale Red Angus Sale Limousin Sale Feeder Heifer Show Market Lamb Show

FRIDAY, JAN. 27 Supreme Row Judging Market Goat Show Market Beef Show Feeder Steer Show Mayor’s Round-up & Sale of Champions $12,000 Supreme Row Cash Awards Presentation,

Benefit Auction for SEFS Junior Exhibitor Scholarship Sponsored by Tri-State Neighbor, Wells Fargo Bank and Campbell Supply Co. Best Western PLUS Ramkota Hotel Exhibit Hall Cost: $45 per person.

Tickets available at Farm Show office.

9 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10:30 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . .

11:30 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . .

6:30 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . .

SATURDAY, JAN. 28 8:30 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . Youth & Open Rabbit Show 9 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Junior Judging Contest 12:30 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . Breeding Beef Heifer Show 12:30 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . Announcement of

Junior Judging Contest winners 7 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Draft Horse Pull

Cost: $8 for adults, $4 for grades 1-12 and ages 6 & under are FREE .

Tickets available at event.

Commercial Exhibits in the Expo Building, the Sioux Falls Convention Center and the Arena open daily Wednesday & Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. & Friday until 4 p.m. This schedule is subject to change

siouxempirefarmshow.org chambernews.com | Chamber News 29

BUSINESS ADVOCACY

Chamber’s 2017 Legislative Platform In order to develop its legislative platform, the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, through its Issues Management Council, conducts research, hears presentations and surveys its members about issues affecting business. These efforts, combined with actively following and monitoring legislative activity since the close of last session, guide our efforts toward developing the platform for the upcoming session. The platform is reviewed, edited and approved by the Issues Management Council and forwarded to the Chamber Executive Committee for review and the Chamber Board for adoption. The platform was adopted at the Board of Directors meeting on December 14, 2016.

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

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

TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE The Chamber recognizes that a safe, efficient and responsive transportation infrastructure is critical to economic development and commerce in Sioux Falls and throughout South Dakota. The Chamber encouraged the 2015 Legislature to address the funding needs of our state and local highway and bridge systems leading to the enactment of a comprehensive funding program for these systems. The Chamber supports the evaluation of our highway and bridge systems on an ongoing basis. The full impact of the new funding approved in 2015 including local flexibilities should be carefully reviewed before new funding is considered. We also support retaining the requirement of local county effort for match funding.

EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce recognizes the many requests for state funding that arise each year and our system of public education – K-12, technical institutes and universities – represents a top priority. The future of Sioux Falls and South Dakota depends on educating our citizens and developing our workforce to remain competitive on a regional, national and international scale.

It is vital to foster an educational system that works in tandem with the business community and government to address and support workforce development initiatives. We look forward to evaluating any workforce development proposals that may arise during the Legislative Session.

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

30 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

K-12 FUNDING: The Chamber closely followed and researched the issue of K-12 in 2016 and supported the Governor’s plan to increase the state sales tax by ½ cent and dedicate those funds to increasing teacher pay (plus some property tax relief ). The Chamber acknowledges Sioux Falls’ and South Dakota’s relative position in the area of teacher pay and the growing effects on recruitment and retention of quality teachers and we would oppose efforts to rollback increased funding for K-12 education. Quality education is essential for the business community to attract new employers and employees and to educate a increasingly diverse workforce. We will follow all proposals affecting K-12 funding closely and consider the impact on our members and area schools. Changes to the formula or other aspects may be introduced, but we believe more time is likely needed before significant changes should be considered that move funding between districts.

K-12 EFFICIENCY: The Chamber fully understands the challenges of operating a K-12 system in a largely rural state that is sparsely populated. For their well-being and the well-being of our state, children throughout South Dakota must be assured a quality education as our Constitution outlines. Still, we encourage organizational changes to improve efficiency and permit reinvestment into core priorities like teacher salaries. We recognize that some districts that are sparsely populated need additional resources per student to ensure a quality education. However, some districts choose to remain small and additional financial subsidies in those instances should be critically reviewed. We encourage the use of technology-based instruction to enhance access to master teachers and course topics that are not available in our smaller districts. In short, efficiency and organizational decisions need to be made to reflect changing demographics and to meet the needs of our K-12 learners.

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

The Chamber supports increased investment in the workforce of tomorrow, which is critical for continued economic development.

The Chamber also supports enhancing local control of our state’s technical institutes to ensure they best serve South Dakota.

HIGHER EDUCATION: The Chamber acknowledges that a highly educated citizenry is critically important to many individual businesses and to competitively position our community for future economic development. We support increased funding for the Regental system and encourage consideration for funding options for the University Center in Sioux Falls to address tuition and service inequalities and new mission opportunities.

BUSINESS ADVOCACY

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

BILLS THAT DISCRIMINATE

COUNTY FUNDING: With the progress made during the 2016 session, the Chamber’s concerns about resources available to counties to address, in particular, increased behavioral health and criminal justice costs were partially addressed. We believe that these improvements benefit the counties and that we need some time to reevaluate need.

We are aware of and concerned with the impacts of Marsy’s Law on county budgets and will monitor that issue closely.

Recent sessions have witnessed bills dealing with transgender individuals and to permit businesses to deny serving certain individuals based on religious beliefs. The Chamber believes that these bills could have wide ranging negative impacts to our community and state in terms of lost business from organizations like the NCAA. We intend Sioux Falls to be a welcoming and supportive community and that needs to extend to the public policy we have on these types of issues.

Practically, we will work to ensure that Sioux Falls’ projects itself as a welcoming community to attract workers and to maintain our ability to host tournaments, conventions, tours and events that may be compromised by this type of legislation.

CITY SALES TAX FOR INFRASTRUCTURE: The Chamber has consistently supported a proposal to permit municipalities to impose a sales tax for infrastructure purposes, provided there is an affirmative vote of the municipality’s residents and the tax is tied to specific projects for a set period of time. We believe this type of local control proposal is the best way to determine the need for such a tax and measure the willingness of local citizens to impose a tax in their community.

MEDICAID EXPANSION: While Medicaid expansion will apparently not be an issue before the 2017 Legislature, it continues to be an important discussion in South Dakota. We appreciate the Governor’s efforts to put forth a plan that best fits South Dakota. We support continued efforts to reform Indian Health Services throughout the state and to provide for the health care needs of some of our most impoverished citizens.

PROVIDER FUNDING: The Chamber recognizes the role the nonprofit community plays in providing essential services to our most vulnerable citizens and supports appropriate funding for them.

LEASED RESIDENTIAL HOUSING PROPERTY TAX CLASSIFICATION The Chamber supported creating a new class of property called “leased residential property” to facilitate the collection of data on this type of property to determine if property tax policy was negatively affecting the supply of competitively-priced housing for our state’s workforce. Recent proposals would not have, in any way, affected tax policy or revenues, but have been resisted and have lost. A similar proposal may emerge again and we encourage some action on this issue including the prospect for a compromise that would permit us to move forward rather than attempt to legislate change each year.

WATERWAYS BUFFER STRIP BILL Last session, we supported a bill to create buffer strips along waterways (e.g. Skunk Creek and the Big Sioux River) to help filter sediment and pollutants before they enter the waterway. The bill passed, but was vetoed by the Governor and the veto was sustained.

Given the importance of the Big Sioux in Sioux Falls as an amenity for quality of life and a feature for development, we will work to support passage of a bill the Governor’s office is considering bringing for the 2017 Session as one strategy to help improve water quality.

PROPERTY AND BUSINESS OWNER RIGHTS We have seen in recent sessions bills introduced that put business and property owners at odds with gun advocates. Our Chamber believes in the right to gun ownership and the traditions of hunting and outdoor life so prominent in South Dakota. However, we have also maintained that property and business owners have the right to restrict gun possession on their property if they choose. This issue will likely resurface again in 2017 and we support the rights of property and business owners to restrict gun possession on their property.

INITIATED MEASURE 22 The Chamber believes that this law has a significant negative impact on our state’s political system, economy, general fund, forprofit and non-profit businesses or organizations, political leaders, state legislators, other public officials and our Chamber. It also has a serious and negative impact on the average citizen being able to interact or communicate with their elected officials. We actively opposed the measure at the ballot box but it passed by a 51.6% to 48.4% margin. We continue to maintain that the voters were misled by the proponents of this effort as to the real impacts of IM 22.

There is a widespread belief that some or all of IM 22 provisions are unconstitutional and it is being challenged in court. There are also discussions about fixes to a number of its provisions which might be submitted to the 2017 Legislature. We will consider those changes on a case-by-case basis.

INITIATIVE AND REFERENDUM Our Chamber believes that South Dakota’s longstanding tradition of allowing direct citizen access to the ballot through the initiative and referendum processes should remain. However, South Dakota finds itself in the position of allowing very broad access and relatively low signature requirements making our state an easy target for special interests who want to test issues. We would encourage a review of the rules and requirements surrounding constitutional and statutory ballot measures and support changes that address problems while preserving our tradition of access.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 31

BUSINESS ADVOCACY

Chamber’s 2017 Policy Statements Since 1993, policy statements addressing broad issue areas have been endorsed by the Chamber Board to direct Chamber business advocacy efforts. The policy statements have been reviewed annually and modified to reflect the issues and context of the day as necessary.

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

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

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

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

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

EDUCATION The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce advocates a quality education system that provides individuals the chance to reach their own life goals and supports the current and future workforce needs of the community. We support the development of systemic strategies to enable all children to succeed and prepare themselves for work and further study (e.g. Sioux Falls Thrive) and we support strategies to engage, train and educate all citizens so they have access to meaningful and rewarding work opportunities. We support efforts

32 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

to adequately fund an effective, efficient system of pre-kindergarten, K-12, technical and post-secondary schools, both locally and statewide. The distribution of state aid dollars to local school districts should be equitably based, at least in part, on the number of children served. The Chamber urges continued dialogue regarding population growth and diversity in the Sioux Falls area and the effect on regional school districts. It is important to maintain an employment environment for schools that attracts and retains quality employees in education. Individual businesses should engage in cooperative partnerships with schools in order to expand learning opportunities.

Finally, the Chamber believes that well-designed and appropriately governed and funded post-secondary education opportunities in Sioux Falls are a competitive and strategic imperative for our community and region.

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

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

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

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

BUSINESS ADVOCACY

FEDERAL The federal government should strive for a balanced budget.

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

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

CHAMBER ADVOCACY ISSUES siouxfallschamber.com

The Chamber’s 2017 Platform and Policy Statements can also be found online at siouxfallschamber.com under the Advocacy tab, along with a listing of Sioux Falls area legislators and other elected officials’ contact information.

Bill Tracker

WORKFORCE

During the Legislative Session, the Chamber Bill Tracker progressively monitors bills being considered that are of vital interest to Chamber members. Bills being followed are based on the Chamber’s Legislative Platform and are ranked for importance by tiers (1, 2 and 3). A tier 1 bill is one of highest importance to members; a tier 2 bill is one that we actively follow with potential to move to tier 1; and a tier 3 bill is one is not given high priority at present, but is monitored for any movement. The Bill Tracker is updated on a weekly basis.

Members can choose to receive it via email or can read it online at siouxfallschamber.com under the Advocacy tab.

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

Stay up to date in real time by following the Chamber’s advocacy-specific Twitter handle, @SFAreaAdvocate. The Chamber’s lobbyist will tweet during committee meetings and share information on floor action.

HOUSING The Sioux Falls Chamber, working with the Sioux Empire Housing Partnership, supports public and private efforts to provide affordable housing in the Sioux Falls area. The Chamber supports public and private efforts to redevelop blighted areas in the city.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY The Sioux Falls Chamber recognizes the growing diversity of our population in Sioux Falls and South Dakota. We embrace the opportunities that this diversity provides for a culturally and talent rich community. We will work with citizens, our partners, community and state agencies and elected officials to develop efforts to engage and include all populations into our city and state. We will also resist initiatives which inappropriately sanction or discriminate against individuals or groups.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

@SFAreaAdvocate

Chamber Advocate

During session, the weekly electronic email The Chamber Advocate will add context to action taking place in Pierre.

In addition, activities at the local government level will continue to be monitored.

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

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber working in partnership with the Sioux Falls Development Foundation believes in proactive approach to business development through business parks, the Zeal Center for Entrepreneurship, the USD Discovery District, Foundation Park and the Forward Sioux Falls initiative. The Chamber supports these activities to further a progressive and growing economy ever moving forward to support the goals of its constituency.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 33

HEADLINES

Photo by Mike Shafer

Military Task Force to continue efforts to bring F-35s to Joe Foss Field The South Dakota Air National Guard (SDANG) did not advance to the next level of the selection process for F-35 basing consideration. However, there were many positive takeaways that will position SDANG well in the work to secure the long-term future of the 114th Fighter Wing’s mission.

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce’s Military Task Force was vigilant in its effort to educate citizens throughout the community of the importance, resolve and dedication to mission of the 114th Fighter Wing. This effort included meetings with Sioux Falls city councilors, Minnehaha County commissioners and the mayor, which resulted in unanimous letters of support. The Task Force also emphasized the numerous awards and multiple overseas deployments of the unit and for its service to the people of Sioux Falls, our state and to the entire nation. The SDANG also received a unanimous resolution of support from the 34 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

South Dakota State Legislature, along with unwavering support from our congressional delegation.

With over 1,000 members of the SDANG, the impact the base has to the business community is immense and retaining a fighter presence is key to sustaining a desired number of guard members at Joe Foss Field.

It is expected that the next opportunity for F-35 site selection will be in approximately two years. The SDANG flies the Block 40 aircraft, which is a newer version of the F-16 and has a service life until approximately 2030. No F-16 Block 40 units were selected for site surveys. Of the five units chosen to receive the F-35 site survey, two fly the older F-16 (Block 30), two fly the A-10 and one flies the F-15 — all aircraft that the Air Force will eventually replace with the F-35.

Ongoing efforts to enhance the Electronic Warfare training opportunities for the 114th Fighter Wing will continue. Our efforts include partnering with Ellsworth Air Force Base to position an EW emitter under the Lake Andes training airspace. Ultimately, the challenge will be how many F-35 aircraft the Department of Defense actually orders.

Military Task Force Co-Chair retired Brig.

Gen. R.J. Clifft said it has been an honor to represent the Chamber as they worked through this process.

“The short term results are obviously disappointing, but we will move forward by continuing to advocate for the vitality of our esteemed unit,” Clifft said. “We thank all for their unyielding engagement of this issue and look forward to your support in the future.”

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HEADLINES

Members of the current leadership class learn about identifying their individual strengths during a recent session. The program has been renamed the Evan C. Nolte Leadership Sioux Falls program.

Leadership Sioux Falls renamed in honor of Evan Nolte The signature leadership program of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce has a new name – the Evan C. Nolte Leadership Sioux Falls program.

Previously known as Leadership Sioux Falls, the selective-admission class was launched in 1986 and has grown into one of the Chamber’s most significant and impactful programs. More than 900 individuals have graduated from the program, and another 30 people comprise this year’s 31st class.

many developing leaders. According to Chamber board chair Dr. Dave Kapaska, renaming the leadership program is way to recognize and honor the contributions that Nolte has made to the community.

“In the future, the diploma each graduate receives will include Evan’s name,” said Kapaska. “Soon, there will be a visible reminder of the impact Evan has had on this community hanging on office walls around the area. And those signs will multiply for years to come.”

EVAN NOLTE

Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

Through his collaborative approach to service and leadership, Chamber president & CEO Evan Nolte has been a role model for

36 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

The recognition was announced at Nolte’s retirement celebration on December 8, 2016. Nolte will retire Feb. 1, 2017 after 38 years of service to the Chamber of Commerce.

CHAMBER PARTNER

Support for South Dakota’s small businesses Small businesses are at the heart of America’s economy, driving most new innovations and creating two-thirds of the net new jobs. Entrepreneurs are the unsung heroes in national wealth creation and central to our prosperity and health as a nation. For many, personal economic empowerment through small business ownership is often the best ticket to the American Dream. As the lead federal agency working to create an environment where America’s entrepreneurs can flourish, the Small Business Administration (SBA) is here to help you achieve success.

Ninety-six percent of all businesses in South Dakota are small businesses – to paraphrase, the business of South Dakota is small business!

JOHN L. BROWN II U.S. Small Business Administration

Ninety-six percent of all businesses in South Dakota are small businesses.

The SBA has a variety of programs to meet the needs of today’s entrepreneurs: Business Counseling You can receive free, confidential, one-on-one through our Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, Women’s Business Center (South Dakota Center for Enterprise Opportunity) and SCORE counselors and mentors including online counseling from 1,100 SCORE specialists across the country.

Technical Assistance Access local workshops, business seminars, and training programs on topics as varied as licensing, bookkeeping, taxes, marketing, advertising, sales, employee relations and exporting.

Training Online, 24/7 training on such topics as leadership, personnel and financial management, strategic planning, marketing and technology is available via SBA’s virtual campus, the Small Business Learning Center at sba.gov/tools/sba-learning-center/search/training. You’ll also find a business library, business plan templates and software and thousands of links to federal, state, local and legal organizations.

Financing Secure financing through our lending partners for startups, expansions, re-financings and business purchases as well as contract financing and export/international trade financial assistance.

Guidance Find guidance on government rules and regulations as well as business law and compliance assistance through SBA’s business website at business.usa.gov. For instance, the mission of the Office of the National Ombudsman is to assist small businesses when they experience excessive or unfair federal regulatory enforcement actions, such as repetitive audits or investigations, excessive fines, penalties, threats, retaliation or other unfair enforcement action by a federal agency. The SBA’s Office of Advocacy advances the views and concerns of small business before Congress, the White House, federal agencies, federal courts and state policy makers.

Government Contracting Get assistance with government contracts including online electronic matchmaking with federal buyers, procurement training programs and guidance from government procurement experts. SBA can even help with surety bonds for contractors.

The SBA was created in 1953 as an independent agency of the federal government to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small business concerns, to preserve free competitive enterprise and to maintain and strengthen the overall economy of our nation. Although the SBA has grown and evolved in the years since it was established, the bottom line mission remains the same. South Dakota companies like Daktronics, CBM Food Service (Marlins), Montgomery’s Furniture and Minerva’s, Inc. have received SBA assistance. Now, we’re ready to help you jump start your own American Dream.

John L. Brown II is the District Director for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s South Dakota District Office. Learn more at sba.gov/sd.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 37

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

The Heart of America Several years ago, the Sioux Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau decided it was time to update our logo and sales and marketing materials. HenkinSchultz worked with the CVB to strategize a process to determine what the new brand should be. We gathered input from locals, businesses, and planners from around the country. Many thoughts were offered but two key ideas were continually highlighted. First, that Sioux Falls is located in the “heart” of America. Second, that people in Sioux Falls are so kind, thoughtful, and friendly… or in other words, people in Sioux Falls have a lot of heart. These key insights led us to “Sioux Falls, the Heart of America” as the basis for our messaging.

TERI SCHMIDT

Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau

New sales and marketing materials were developed using the new brand and this logo has been featured in everything representing the CVB’s efforts ever since. Visitors continually tell us how nice people are here, how kind everyone is and how hospitable everyone is. The heart of the people of Sioux Falls has been a shining star for those who visit our community. You make them feel welcome – as though you are welcoming them into your living room!

The heart of the people of Sioux Falls recently rose to the top once again, when the heartbreaking tragedy happened on Phillips Avenue. So many of you stepped up and helped those in need.

Our first responders performed at the highest level one could hope for. People took care of each other. Businesses helped other businesses. Everyone who commented on the situation, from those being interviewed by the media to individuals in casual side conversations were truly concerned for those affected. Everyone cared and everyone wanted to know how to help. I truly believe this community is one of the most caring places in the country.

We are all very fortunate to live, work and enjoy Sioux Falls. Our citizens make our community the great place that it is. You are the reason we have the opportunity to tell the rest of the country why this is such a great place to visit.

When you see our logo, “Sioux Falls, the Heart of America”, remember… it’s about you.

Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau Mission To market the city of Sioux Falls as a one-of-a-kind visitor destination, and to provide premier visitor services, and increase visitor spending in order to enhance economic impact throughout the community.

The Sioux Falls Promise The CVB stands committed to exceeding visitor’s expectations. We will provide superior visitor hospitality in the city best recognized as “The Heart of America.”

For all your convention, meeting and event needs, contact the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau: (605) 275-6060, email sfcvb@siouxfalls.com or visit visitsiouxfalls.com; for more updates about the visitor industry, go to pg. 42.

38 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

MEMBER VOICE

Technology offers efficiencies for livestock production Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil. Scientists have been studying hydroponics since the 1600s. However, a hydroponic system for growing plants in large quantities has not existed until very recently. The concept of using fully automated hydroponics to produce feed for livestock has the potential to change the way livestock producers operate.

CRAIG LIVINGSTON HydroGreen Global Technologies

“land on a stand” uses hydroponics to control the variables that affect traditional growing methods.

Under the traditional methods growing feed for livestock in a field is time and resource intensive. It requires hundreds of acres of land, thousands of gallons of water, hundreds of hours of labor, tractors and combines, hundreds of gallons of fuel, several applications of fertilizer and chemicals and large long-term storage facilities. If a farmer wishes to increase production output, he or she must proportionally increase all of the resource inputs. Even then, crop quality and yield remain at the mercy of the weather (e.g., drought, heavy rain, hail, high winds and extreme cold).

Rising land prices are a market driver that makes land acquisition unattainable for many who do not have financial means. Land shortages are also a market driver. Oftentimes, available land does not exist within reasonable proximity to a producer’s current operation, and when landowners pass their land down generation after generation, it can leave adjacent operations land-locked for decades.

For those who do have available cropland, Mother Nature becomes a market driver. Field grown feed output remains dependent on the cooperation of weather and weather’s unpredictability creates drastic fluctuations in the livestock feed market. Bad weather reduces yield and causes high retail feed prices; good weather causes low payouts for crops.

To address these challenges, HydroGreen has developed the Grow System technology.

This “land on a stand” system uses hydroponics to control the variables that affect traditional growing methods. The system resides in a building, thereby negating weather disruptions, and it requires only a small fraction of the land, water, and labor required of field production.

A mechanized design automates the hydroponic growth from seed to live green feed on a rolling film. With the push of a button, the system seeds, waters, lights, monitors, harvests and then runs a post-harvest clean up. The result is a reduction in feed expenses by nearly 14%. In addition this system can produce fresh and highly nutritious feed, on a daily basis, year-round without chemical pesticides or fertilizers. This makes organic production a viable option for producers.

HydroGreen feed works for most animals, including dairy cattle, beef cattle, swine, sheep, goat, poultry and equine, and for all sizes of producers from hobby farms to large concentrated animal feeding operations.

The world’s population continues to grow and so does the demand on livestock producers to produce more food while retaining quality and affordable prices. Hydroponic technology can assist producers in achieving more cost-effective solutions that help them remain profitable and produce enough food to meet the ever-increasing global food demands.

Craig Livingston is the President of HydroGreen Global Technologies.

Founded in 2015, the company is based in Renner, South Dakota.

40 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

USING YOUR MEMBERSHIP

Sharpen your business skills with Business Sense Workshops

BY LAUREN FOSHEIM

Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

A new crop of Business Sense Workshops are available this winter, with one workshop offered every Tuesday from January through March at the Chamber of Commerce. The goal of the workshops is to educate you and your team on important issues small businesses face, and to provide actionable ideas for personal growth and professional development. The winter series begins in January with a human resources related topic each week.

Vaney Hariri, with Think 3D Solutions, will lead a workshop on Jan. 10 to address the question “How can I motivate my employees without spending a lot of money?” Building relationships among team members is important and can lead to better efficiencies in business, but it can also come with a significant price tag. Vaney will walk through how critical employee morale is to a business, and how investing in employees might just be one of the best investments a business owner can make.

A team from Cain Ellsworth & Company will tackle the human resources challenge of ways to save on overtime. Each business has different challenges and opportunities. Cain Ellsworth will outline some options that might provide successful solutions for individual organizations.

What is company culture, and how can you change it? Many factors can contribute to a company’s culture: vision, values, beliefs.

In fact, even companies with one employee have a culture. The third

JANUARY BUSINESS SENSE WORKSHOPS Jan. 10 – Motivating Employees Without Spending Any Money Jan. 17 – 3 Ways to Save on Overtime Jan. 24 – How to Hire, Train and Fire to Fit Your Culture

All workshops cost $10 and are held at the Chamber of Commerce offices.

January workshop will hone in on company culture. Roxie Loftesness will lead a panel discussion of human resources professionals from the Sioux Falls area that will discuss how we can hire, train – and even fire – to fit company culture.

The Business Sense Workshop theme for February will focus on business branding and brand awareness. March workshops will center on customer service and building relationships with customers and clients.

Business Sense Workshops are carefully planned and executed by the Chamber’s Small Business Council. The Small Business Council’s purpose is to provide assistance and support responsive to the needs of small business, and meets monthly. For more information on how you can get involved or to register for a workshop, contact Lauren Fosheim at (605) 373-2009 or lfosheim@siouxfalls.com.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 41

BUSINESS NEWS

Visitor Industry Updates TOURISM YEAR TO KICK OFF IN PIERRE The CVB and representatives of Sioux Falls’ hotels and attractions are traveling to Pierre January 17-19 for the 2017 Governor’s Conference on Tourism. The conference brings together South Dakota’s industry professionals to discuss the state of tourism in South Dakota, share best practices and look ahead to the 2017 tourism year.

Speakers include Jonah Berger, author and marketing professor at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania; Clayton Reid, MMGY Global; Phil Giudice, TripAdvisor; and many more.

REFINED STRATEGIES TARGET PLANNERS IN 2017 Marketing efforts to reach meeting and convention planners, sports event organizers and group tour operators continue to evolve. In 2017 the Sioux Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau will implement more automated communications, dynamic content showcasing insider knowledge, and venue amenities. All of these tactics are reinforced with the professional support provided by the CVB sales team.

The “Why We Are Here” messaging will be carried on in 2017.

This creative continues to show great engagement and differentiates Sioux Falls as a host city from competitors. All tactical elements will fall into three categories: content creation, engagement with planners, and areas to refine and enhance what is currently in place.

A new automated lead platform will assist sales efforts and enhance the prospecting cycle. Through this process website forms and landing pages will be directly tied into automated communications with individual sales team members.

Each of the respective group sales markets will be targeted through general brand awareness and planner guide promotions, and then retargeted with various action-oriented messages.

Remarketing and marketing automation emails will be the strongest driving force to keep this market engaged with Sioux Falls.

New content will be created and strategically placed across relevant channels. Display and social ads will include short video spots and strong branded imagery. Dynamic web content will show pertinent information based upon a new or returning planner and location if applicable. The new planner and sports videos will be positioned in various locations of the sales funnel and new 360 videos will also be released.

UNITED STATES GRAIN COUNCIL MEETS IN SIOUX FALLS Sioux Falls hosted the United States Grain Council’s 2017 USDA/Foreign Agricultural Service Workshop in December. This was a four day, international workshop that hosted 25 individuals from the South American country of Peru. Workshop sessions included topics such as buying U.S. products, market development, exporting, trade policy, food security, and more.

42 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

SD ROCK & ROLL MUSIC ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTION PLANNED The South Dakota Rock and Roll Music Association Hall of Fame will hold its ninth annual Induction Concert at 6 p.m. April 22, 2017 at the Best Western PLUS Ramkota Exhibit Hall. Eight bands from the ‘60s and ‘70s will be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Five of those bands will perform at the event. Dance halls, promoters, radio stations, disc jockeys, music stores, Spirit of the Music, and Lifetime Achievement awards will be introduced.

Tickets are available beginning Jan. 1, 2017 at sdrrma.com and Lewis Southgate. The event is always sold out, so make plans to be a kid again!

CVB GEARING UP TO HOST 2018 PHEASANT FEST The Sioux Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) is hitting the road in February to attend the 2017 National Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic in Minneapolis. The CVB will exhibit at the show just as they have done for the past several years. The 2018 show is booked in Sioux Falls, so the CVB will be spending much of their time talking with other vendors about coming to Sioux Falls as well as encouraging show attendees to travel to Sioux Falls next year.

The CVB has been working to book the Pheasant Fest for more than seven years. Persistence paid off when Sioux Falls was chosen as the 2018 host city this past September. Howard Vincent, president and CEO of Pheasants Forever, along with several other Pheasants Forever officials, traveled to Sioux Falls in September to make the exciting announcement. Upwards of 25,000 people are expected to visit Sioux Falls Feb. 16 -18, 2018. Sioux Falls is the smallest city ever chosen to host the event.

SIOUX FALLS TO HOST SOUTH DAKOTA SENIOR GAMES The South Dakota State Senior Games will take place in Sioux Falls Sept. 7-10, 2017. This event draws 600 people from all over the state to Sioux Falls. The athletes, between the ages of 50-90 years old, will compete to qualify for the National Senior Games in 2018. There are more than 25 competitive events including basketball, softball, volleyball, pickleball, tennis, track & field, and many more. The Senior Games is an inspirational event that requires a large number of volunteers to be successful. If you would like to volunteer for this great event please call Howard Bisch, President of the SD Senior Games, at (605) 275-6891 or by email at habich@sio.midco.net.

BUSINESS NEWS

Expanded gigabit service serves 400 Sioux Falls businesses Fiber-ready broadband speeds up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) are now available to 400 small to large business customers in 53 multi-tenant unit (MTU) office buildings in Sioux Falls, thanks to a recent expansion

by CenturyLink.

Technology has changed the way businesses operate, increasing both productivity and efficiency. According to Accenture’s January 2016 Digital Economic Value Index, 25 percent of the world’s economy is expected to be digital by 2020. Access to gigabit service, as well as Voice over Internet

Protocol (VoIP), cloud-based services and managed IT solutions, is an increasingly important operations tool for most businesses.

“Sioux Falls is an exciting place to start, grow and conduct business,” said Julie Darrington, CenturyLink’s vice president of operations for North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, and southwest Iowa. “By offering fiber-ready services to multi-tenant unit office buildings in this area, we can more quickly connect our business customers to the power of the digital world.”

Businesses within these buildings now have access to multiple wide-area network connections delivered over fiber, including multiprotocol label switching virtual private network (MPLS-VPN), metro Ethernet and the latest software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) solution. A high-speed, highcapacity fiber-enabled broadband connection delivers the highest quality business hosted voice and cloud-based solutions, even when shared among multiple business locations.

Sioux Falls to host exhibition game for top NHL prospects The Sioux Falls Stampede will host an all-star exhibition game for National Hockey League (NHL) top prospect players at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center on Jan. 10, 2017. Players and their families travel from all over the country to participate in the event.

In addition, the game attracts talent scouts from every NHL team and many Division I collegiate teams.

The top 40 players currently skating in the United States Hockey League (USHL) who are eligible for the NHL draft will participate

in the Top Prospects game. Last year, 10 players from the USHL went on to be selected in the first round of the NHL draft.

The Stampede will also host a noon luncheon featuring all the players and keynote speaker Matt Majka, Chief Operating Officer of the Minnesota Wild. A skills competition will take place at 6:45 p.m. followed by the exhibition game at 7:05 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets for the game visit sfstampede.com.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 43

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For More Information Contact us at 605-331-2349

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Ribbon Cuttings

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce holds ribbon cutting ceremonies for members to celebrate joining the Chamber, milestone anniversaries, grand openings, expansions or remodelings. Ribbon cutting ceremonies are organized free of charge for members and are held Monday through Friday at 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The public and all Chamber members are invited to share in the celebration. Call (605) 336-1620 for more information or to schedule your event.

Groundbreaking ceremonies are coordinated by the Sioux Falls Development Foundation. Call (605) 339-0103 for more information or to schedule your event.

Alpha Center

3405 S. KIWANIS AVE . alphacenter.org The Alpha Center provides services and support to women and men involved in an unplanned pregnancy. L to R: Dr. Patti Giebink, Dean Karsky, Christie Aberson, Leslee Unruh (founder), Dr. Allen Unruh, Nathan Stallinga, Amy O’Connor Hoback and Kristin Cooke.

NEW LOCATION

Auto Body Specialties

4710 N. WESTPORT AVE. absdelivers.com Auto Body Specialties, Inc. is an automotive and industrial wholesale paint, parts and equipment supplier. L to R: Nathan Stallinga, Julie Nelson, Ron Roddel, Becky Johnson, Jim Roddel (president), Margie Jensen, Sharon Haselhoff, Marty DesLauriers and Joey Rotert.

EXPANSION

Bella Vous Lingerie

1909 W. 41ST ST. Belle Vous Lingerie provides exceptional lingerie imported from France and the Ukraine as well as US brands. L to R: Tracy Munce, Jerry Johnson, Debbie Cook, Dean Karsky, Rebecca Johnson (president), Amy O’Connor Hoback and Isabella Johnson.

NEW MEMBER

The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society

EXPANSION

4800 W. 57TH ST. good-sam.com The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society is the nation’s largest not-for-profit provider of senior services and housing. L to R: Joyce Nelson, Jered Schock, Alex Ramirez, Dean Karsky, Dr. Judy Ryan, David Horazdovsky (president & CEO), Nathan Stallinga, Daren Anderson and Norm Eitrem.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 45

RIBBON CUTTINGS Evidence Based Oriental Medicine, LLC (EBOM Clinic)

NEW MEMBER

5132 S. CLIFF AVE., SUITE 3 ebomus.com Evidence Based Oriental Medicine is the most trusted acupuncture and herbal medicine services provider in the region. L to R: Dr. Xiangming Guan, Nicole Raml, Larry Ayres, Dr. Yueshan Hu (CEO), Sharon Haselhoff, Nathan Stallinga, Dr. Yanchun Xu (chair), Amber Schwiesow and Dr. Dennis Hedge.

Fit My Feet Orthotics & Shoes

5322 E. ARROWHEAD PKWY. fitmyfeet.biz Fit My Feet Orthotics & Shoes is a fit and sit shoe store, specializing in helping foot pain with orthotics and shoes. L to R: Kristin Hoefert, Nathan Stallinga, Amanda Kolterman, Julie Nelson, Nick Kolterman (owner), Carrie Dragt and Kaitlyn Mannhalter.

NEW MEMBER

46 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

RIBBON CUTTINGS KSFY Television

NEW LOCATION

325 S. 1ST AVE. ksfy.com KSFY TV is the ABC, CW and MeTV affiliate serving the Sioux Falls area. L to R: Phil Schreck, Mike Hauck, Hilton Howell (chairman, president & CEO, Gray Television), Lucas Fiegen, Jim Berman (president & general manager, KSFY), Miss America Savvy Shields, Mayor Mike Huether, Nathan Stallinga, Gary Gaspar and Tammy Beintema.

Pancheros Mexican Grill

4824 S. LOUISE AVE. pancheros.com Pancheros Mexican Grill is a fast casual Tex Mex grill offering fresh pressed tortillas, and homemade salsa from scratch. L to R: Ben Pruitt, April Meyerink, Nicole Raml, Nathan Stallinga, Patrick Miller (co-owner), Justin Miller (co-owner), Dan Doyle, Daschle Larsen, Mayor Mike Huether and Ben Miller.

NEW MEMBER

Better Banking Sweet Thinking.

CH Patisserie has introduced Sioux Falls to a world-class selection of European-style delights.

The downtown shop feels lifted from New York or Paris.

The reception has been sweet. “Security National Bank had faith in me and my dream of owning my own very specialized business,” said Chris Hanmer, Owner.

That’s what Better Banking is all about.

Security National Bank’s Business Bankers understand great ideas.

Call Mark Lovre 605-977-9000

Mark Lovre, VP Commercial Services

Chris Hanmer, Owner

74TH & SOUTH LOUISE

snbsd.com

26TH ST & I-29

chambernews.com | Chamber News 47

RIBBON CUTTINGS Renegade Stores

650 EMPIRE MALL renegadestores.com Renegade Stores sell work, western and weekend apparel and footwear from all the top brands. L to R: CJ Prewitt (sales manager), Ron Soucie, Troy Weyhrich (president/CEO), Nathan Stallinga, Derrick Karsky, Todd Schaffer, Jeremy Keckler, Sharon Haselhoff and Earl Feyerherm.

NEW MEMBER

Skate City

2901 W. 3RD ST. skatecitysd.com Skate City is a family oriented establishment that provides, fun, active entertainment for the whole family. L to R: Alyssa Bonebrake, Amy O’Connor Hoback, Dan Doyle, Tony Heer, Kevin Curtis (owner), Nathan Stallinga, Daren Anderson and Shannon Matlak.

NEW MEMBER

33rd ANNUAL

SIOUX

FALLS Day at the

LEGISLATURE WEDNESDAY, FEB. 22, 2017 Join us for this annual all-day trip to Pierre!

View committee meetings, listen in on session and join us for a luncheon in the Capitol rotunda. Visit with your elected officials to talk about issues important to you.

Pricing includes: Ride the bus and attend lunch, $55; Provide own transportation, lunch is $25.

For more information or to sponsor this event, contact Teresa: (605) 373-2050 or tschreier@siouxfalls.com.

48 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

RIBBON CUTTINGS Steffes Group, Inc.

1688 HWY. 9, LARCHWOOD, IA steffesgroup.com Steffes Group provides live and online auctions, equipment appraisals, and real estate sales for farmers and businesses. L to R: Ben Dieters, Lynda Billars, Mark Luke, Phil Kappen, Scott Steffes (president), Laurie Knutson, Marshall Selberg and Chris Bair.

NEW LOCATION

StoneyBrook Suites

4501 E. PAMPAS PL. stoneybrooksuites.com StoneyBrooke Suites Assisted Living provides a lifestyle of excellence while listening to the needs of their residents. L to R: Beth Reynolds, Brandi Wheeler, Nathan Stallinga, Wendy Bergan, Jody Elton, Larry Ayres, Bruce Burckhardt (president), Stefanie Engebretson, Valerie Decker and Melissa Terronez.

EXPANSION

Strong Partnerships We believe strong community partnerships strengthen neighborhoods and cities, enhance a community’s livability, and empower those who live in it.

At Bank Midwest, we understand that these partnerships are the foundation of our success, and the strong ties we work toward only make a better experience for all of us.

Bank Midwest is proud to be a part of your community!

605.275.9559 • 225 S. Minnesota Ave BankMidwest.com • Member FDIC

chambernews.com | Chamber News 49

MEMBERSHIP

New Members

New members are printed in each issue of Chamber News. Following is a list of businesses or individuals who have invested in the greater community by joining the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. An online Membership Directory can be found at siouxfallschamber.com or by using the Chamber’s App, available in the iTunes and Google Play stores. Want to become a member? Call (605) 336-1620.

Cinema Falls

Heidelbauer Shutters

Amusement, Entertainment, Attraction Julie Anderson Friesen 309 S. Minnesota Ave., 57104 cinemafalls.com

Shutters and Blinds Todd Heidelbauer, (605) 359-5393 P.O. Box 1621, 57101 heidelbauer.com

Crave - Sioux Falls

Interstate Sales, LLC

Restaurants Chris Gaylord, (605) 782-2600 201 E. 8th St., 57103 craveamerica.com

Truck Dealers Sebastian Wegryn 25749 Cottonwood Ave., 57107 interstatesales1.com

Outsound Productions

Don Dunham III Real Estate - Jon Haverly

Kingdom Capital Fund

Affiliate - Real Estate Jon Haverly, (605) 212-0165 7400 S. Bitterroot Pl., Suite 200, 57108 dondunham.com

Associate Member Nik Aamlid, (605) 789-9735 3208 E. 26th St., 57103 kingdomcapitalfund.org

Senscio Systems, Inc.

Fahrendorf Family Chiropractic & Wellness, P.C.

LifeVantage

Chiropractors, DC Dr. Eric M. Fahrendorf, (605) 334-8000 229 W. 39th St., Suite 300, 57105 fahrendorfchiropractic.com

Foster, Jacobs & Johnson Engineers Michael Hubbard, (605) 261-5616 4305 S. Louise Ave., Suite 204, 57106 fjj.com

Gunway Guns & Gunsmiths Katie Demaray or Andy Hanson, (605) 767-1606 27197 SD Hwy 115, Harrisburg, 57032 gunway.com

Harrisburgers Associate Member Nick Lund, (605) 767-1900 106 W. Willow St., Harrisburg, 57032 harrisburgerssd.com

50 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

Associate Member Marilyn Moser, (605) 759-2451 marilynkmoser.lifevantage.com

Native Hope, Inc. Associate Member Julie Muldoon, (888) 999-2108 112 S. Main St., Chamberlain, 57325 nativehope.com

Evan Nolte Associate Member

Norfolk Financial Insurance & Financial Services - Scott Newman Affiliate - Insurance Scott Newman, (605) 941-3781 4305 S. Louise Ave., Suite 104, 57106

One Source The Background Check Company Associate Member Christy Gammel, (800) 608-3645 Ext:5900 10842 Old Mill Rd., Omaha, NE 68154 onesourcebackground.com

Sound & Lighting System Josh Timothy, (605) 212-4603 outsoundproductions.com

Health Technology Tony Burke, (605) 351-5939 2329 N. Career Ave., #220, 57107

SGA Hospitality dba Econolodge Hotels & Motels Pruthil (Phil) Patel, (605) 331-4490 5100 N. Cliff Ave., 57104

The UPS Store #6700 Shipping Agents Paul Koenecke, (605) 271-0445 4800 S. Louise Ave., 57106 theupsstorelocal.com/6700

Think 3D Solutions Consultants Vaney Hariri, (605) 906-3615 2329 N. Career Ave., Suite 117, 57107 think3d.solutions

Waddell & Reed - Mitch Van Dam Affiliate - Insurance Mitch Van Dam, (605) 361-9998 5032 S. Bur Oak Pl. #200, 57108

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MEMBERSHIP

Member Anniversaries

Congratulations to the following members who are celebrating their milestone membership anniversaries this month. They are part of a continued commitment to our community through their investment in the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. To learn more about Chamber membership, contact (605) 336-1620 or sfacc@siouxfalls.com. Find a complete Membership Directory online at siouxfallschamber.com or on your smartphone using the Chamber’s app — search “Sioux Falls Chamber” in the Google Play or iTunes stores.

FOUNDING MEMBER

Nyberg’s Ace

Argus Leader Media/ Sioux Falls Business Journal

Hardware-Retail nybergsace.com

Newspapers argusleader.com Member Since 1907

South Dakota Army National Guard

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

First PREMIER Bank Banks firstpremier.com Member Since 1914

Associate Member sdguard.ngb.army.mil

Sun Enterprises, Inc. Real Estate Rental - Commercial

15 YEARS

FIRST-YEAR MEMBERS WHO REINVESTED IN THEIR OCTOBER ANNIVERSARY MONTH

American Bank & Trust Banks abt.bank

Anesthesia Physicians, Ltd. Physicians & Surgeons - M.D.

Dakota Resources

FJM Collections, Inc.

Associate Member dakotaresources.org

Collection Agencies fjmcollections.com

Games 2 Go

Minnehaha County Republican Party

Entertainment games2goparty.com

Henry Carlson Co.

Associate Member minnehahagop.com

Granite Springs Lodge

Contractors - General henrycarlson.com Member Since 1919

10 YEARS

Center of Hope

John Paulson

MidAmerican Energy Company

Associate Member centerofhopesf.org

Associate Member

Gas Companies midamerican.com Member Since 1907

Xcel Energy Electric Companies xcelenergy.com Member Since 1916

YMCA Fitness Centers siouxfallsymca.org Member Since 1919

40 YEARS

Sioux International, Inc. Farm Equipment siouxint.com

25 YEARS

South Western Dental Dentists smilesbyswdental.com

Universal Oil Oils-Lubricating

Daktronics Digital Billboard Manufacturer daktronics.com

South Dakota Retailers Assn.

Associate Member sdra.org

Susan Scott Associate Member

5 YEARS

Advanced Tech Computer Services advancedtechinc.com

Eco-Friendly Pest Control LLC Pest Control eco-friendlypc.com

Falls Park Farmers Market Associate Member fallsparkfarmersmarket.com

RECOM, Inc.

Crist and Wenande Orthodontics Prof. LLC

HVAC Testing recom-inc.com

Orthodontists cw-ortho.com

State Farm Insurance - Ty Teveldal

Cutler Law Firm, LLP Attorneys cutlerlawfirm.com

52 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

Insurance teveldalinsurance.com

Associate Member granitespringssd.com

FIVE QUESTIONS Five questions is a monthly feature on a Chamber volunteer, Chamber member or staff member. Want to be featured here? Call (605) 336-1620.

Five questions with Jo Beal Jo Beal grew up on a farm with dairy cows outside of Valley Springs. She is employed with Beal Distributing and is an active volunteer in the Sioux Falls area, serving multiple nonprofit organizations. Beal is the Chair of the 2017 Sioux Empire Farm Show, which is sponsored by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce.

DESCRIBE SIOUX FALLS IN THREE WORDS: Full of opportunity.

WHAT IS ONE OF SIOUX FALLS’ BEST-KEPT SECRETS? The generosity of the people that live in this community.

WHAT IS ONE NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION THAT YOU SUPPORT AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO YOU? JO BEAL

Beal Distributing

The Sioux Falls Ministry Center. This was a dream of a few of us that became a reality. We had the realization that there were so many needs in our community, but the places that people could get help were spread out all over the city. We came up with the idea of finding a place where multiple services for those in need could be located in the same space. After years of searching, we landed on the building downtown on East 11th Street. The space was larger than what we had thought was needed, but now we see what a blessing that has been as ministries have been able to grow in the building. Today, the Sioux Falls Ministry Center has a low-cost daycare, a coat ministry, a bike ministry, a free clinic, meals, counseling, and many other services for people in need in our community.

WHAT TECHNOLOGY TOOL OR APP COULD YOU NOT LIVE WITHOUT? My cell phone and text messaging.

WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED? Be the best person you can be.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 53

FROM THE ARCHIVES

As a membership organization with a history spanning more than a century, the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce has influenced progress across the community in a number of ways throughout the decades.

The top left photo is from 1962, top right from 1974 and the bottom two are both from 1989.

Farm Show has long history The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce began sponsoring the Sioux Empire Farm Show in 1954. That year, approximately 18,000 people attended the five-day show. The event has continued to grow each year and is considered one of the best farm shows in the upper Midwest. More than 30,000 people now attend the event each year.

The 2017 show will be held Jan. 24-28.

54 Chamber News | JANUARY 2017

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