Celebrate South Dakota’s largest industry with us
Technology has changed the way we do business, enabling us to be more productive and more efficient. One industry that has continued to evolve is agriculture — South Dakota’s largest industry. Ag is a more than $20 billion industry in our state and while Sioux Falls’ economy has diversified over the years, agriculture still helps drive our local economy, too.
This month we honor agriculture with our annual Sioux Empire Farm Show, celebrating its Diamond Jubilee. More than 60 years ago, Chamber volunteers saw a need to develop a closer and more friendly and cooperative working relationship between the city of Sioux Falls and the agricultural area around it. They wanted to improve the quality of livestock and to provide educational programs and agricultural exhibits. The end result, they hoped,
Ag is a more than $20 billion industry in our state and while Sioux Falls’ economy has diversified over the years, agriculture still helps drive our local economy, too. “
ROB OLIVER
was a closer rural-urban working relationship and an upgraded agricultural economy to a degree that will reflect favorably upon individual, business, industry and community prosperity.
Though I don’t have an agricultural background myself, I’m proud the Chamber was a leader in developing the Sioux Empire Farm Show and that we continue to invest staff time and to advance programs that recognize the role that agri-business plays in our local economy. We all have an opportunity to help celebrate this milestone
anniversary and thank our area farmers by attending the Sioux Empire Farm Show. A complete schedule is in this issue, as well as feature stories on our Farm Family and Agri-Business Citizen of the year.
From the evolution of “fat” cattle to market steers, our Sioux Empire Farm Show has evolved along with the state’s largest industry. I encourage you to see the livestock shows and sales that take place, as well as the latest tools, machinery and equipment that enables our farmers to be so productive.
ROB OLIVER
2012-13 Chair of the Board
2013 also brings the start of the legislative session and a host of activities and events. Look for regular legislative updates via our electronic newsletter, Legislative Lookout, during the session and via Facebook (Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce) and Twitter (@SFAreaChamber).
Happy New Year!
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
CHAIR
Rob Oliver Augustana College
CHAIR ELECT
Keith Severson, Jr Eide Bailly LLP
VICE CHAIR
Dana Dykhouse First PREMIER Bank
TREASURER
Paul Bruflat CNA Surety
IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR
Barb Stork Midwest Provisions, Inc.
PRESIDENT & CEO
Evan Nolte Chamber of Commerce
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Mike Begeman Sanford Health
Juan Bonilla La Voz Hispana Magazine/TV/Newspaper
Ruth Christopherson Citi
Ben Graham Bell, Incorporated
Brad Grossenburg Woods, Fuller, Shultz & Smith PC
J. Tyler Haahr Metabank
Dave Kapaska, M.D. Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center
Kristi Masterson Hy Vee Inc.
Eric McDonald DocuTAP
Dan Rykhus Raven Industries
Steve VanBuskirk VanBuskirk Companies
Anita Wetsch Canfield Business Interiors
Kristen Hegg Zueger Hegg Companies
EX-OFFICIO
Dr. Pam Homan Superintendent, Sioux Falls Public School System
Gerald Beninga Minnehaha County Commission
Mayor Mike Huether City of Sioux Falls
Doug Morrison Sioux Falls School Board
Jim Schmidt Lincoln County Commission
STAFF
Evan Nolte President & Chief Executive Officer
Thane Barnier Web Development & IT Manager
Joan Bartling Finance & Accounting Director
Jill Blom Web Developer
Cathy Buchheim CVB Sales Manager
Mattie Burnham CVB Assistant Director of Sales & Marketing
Shirley Buseman Receptionist/CVB Assistant
Cindy Christensen Agri-Business Division Manager
Rachel Crane CVB Host City Manager
Blaine Davis CVB Sales Manager
Amy M. Farr Membership Sales Manager
Kate Foley Small Business & Leadership Development Manager
Nikki Gronli Graphics & Communications Specialist
Ellie Highstreet CVB Sales Manager
Lesa Jarding Young Professionals Network Manager
Jay Kaltenbach CVB Services/Resale Manager
Pat Lund Membership Services Manager
Betsy McCarty CVB Creative & Communications Manager
Wendy Neuharth Membership Services Administrative Assistant
Robert O’Connell Public Affairs & Communications Director
Betty Ordal Membership Services Director
Krista Orsack CVB Director of Sales and Marketing
Kathie Puthoff CVB Administrative Assistant
Teri Schmidt CVB Executive Director
Susan Seachris Administrative/Accounting Assistant
Amy Smolik Marketing & Communications Manager
Sara Weber Public Affairs & Research Manager
Carolyn Winchell Forward Sioux Falls
Director of Investor Relations
Erin Zimmerman CVB Sales Assistant
ON THE COVER:
The 2013 Farm Family of the Year is the Jim, Roger and Mike Willard family of Colton, S.D. L to R: Jim & Jan Willard, Mike (holding daughter Dolce) & Jamie (holding son Cruz) Willard and Roger & Sherry Willard
SOUTH DAKOTA FAMILY FARMS
98% of farms in South Dakota are family-owned and operated. The average size of a farm in South Dakota is 1,374 acres.
There are 46,000 producers in South Dakota on 31,800farms. The average age of a South Dakota farmer is 55.7 years. Each year, one South Dakota producer raises enough food to feed
155 people in the U.S. and abroad.
Source: South Dakota Department of Agriculture
Chamber News Ad Sales: Argus Leader Media FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION, CALL: 605.331.2348
Chamber News Layout/Design: Nikki Gronli
Chamber News Editor: Amy Smolik FOR
Chamber News is published monthly by Argus Leader Media and the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. Advertising and editorial deadlines can be found at www.siouxfallschamber.com under the News & Publications link.
Postmaster please send address changes to: Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 1425, 200 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 102,
A division of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau markets Sioux Falls as a one-of-a-kind visitor destination, provides premier visitor services to increase visitor spending in order to enhance the economic impact throughout the community Conventions, Meetings & Event updates are compiled by the staff of the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau The updates printed in each issue of Chamber News include information about groups holding events in Sioux Falls in the near future and activities of the Convention & Visitors Bureau
For all your convention, meeting and event needs, contact the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau: 605 336 1620 or email sfcvb@siouxfalls com More information about the CVB can be found online at: www VisitSiouxFalls com
CVB assistance makes the difference for events
The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) prides itself on exceeding expectations. Each meeting, event or group tour receives undivided attention to ensure a successful event. The CVB works for planners and with planners so they have a pleasant and rewarding experience in Sioux Falls. Services include convention registration assistance with trained and experienced personnel working as greeters, registrars, cashiers or ticket takers. The CVB can print and prepare name badges in advance or onsite, which is a great way for attendees to get
to know one another. The CVB can provide information desks staffed with knowledgeable personnel, which is great for guests to find their way around Sioux Falls — free resources on dining, attractions and other services. Step-on guides are also available for tours to help visiting attendees become even more familiar with Sioux Falls history and attractions. CVB services make the difference — for more information visit www. visitsiouxfalls.com or call Jay at the CVB at (605) 373-2034.
Advertise in the 2013-14 Sioux Falls Visitors Guide
The Sioux Falls Visitors Guide, the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau’s (CVB) official publication, promotes Sioux Falls accommodations, attractions, shopping, dining, entertainment, events, sports and recreation. It is the only authorized guide used and distributed by the CVB.
Gary Webber, Think Tourism USA, is selling ad space in the 2013-14 guide. There is still time to sign up to be included in the publication by contacting Webber at the CVB office at (605) 336-1620.
This will be the 18th year of publishing the information-packed guide to Sioux Falls. Approximately 250,000 guides are printed and distributed annually by the CVB in high-traffic locations throughout the community and included in all sales efforts of the bureau. The Sioux Falls Visitors Guide helps attract visitors to the city
to experience what makes Sioux Falls an extraordinary city to visit. Additionally the guide serves as a calendar of events as visitors plan return trips.
Congratulations to Barb Christen of WR Restaurants, winner of the $200 early bird drawing. Visitors Guide advertisers who signed up by the early bird reservation deadline were eligible for the drawing.
Annual Visitor Industry
Luncheon May 16
The Sioux Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau’s (CVB) annual Visitor Industry Luncheon will be held May 16 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center.
The annual luncheon coincides with National Tourism Week and is a way to promote the tourism industry in Sioux Falls. Each year the CVB acknowledges the efforts of businesses and individuals in the commu-
nity who show support to the visitor industry. Recognition is given in four categories: Heart of the City Award, First Impressions Award, Business Award and Media Award. Further nomination information and ticket availability will be forthcoming. For more information, call (605) 336-1620 or go to www.visitsiouxfalls.com
The 2013-2014 Official Sioux Falls Visitor Guide will be available mid-March. Advertising space is still available by contacting the Sioux Falls CVB.
CVB to attend group tour shows to promote Sioux Falls
The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau is scheduled to attend three group tour shows in the next two months: the American Bus Association (ABA) Marketplace in Charlotte, N.C. Jan. 5-9; National Tour Association (NTA) in Orlando Jan. 2024; and Bank Travel Conference in Virginia Beach, Va., Feb. 5-7.
Each of the tradeshows allows buyers and sellers to meet face-to-face in pre-
scheduled appointments. During the timed sessions, each appointment provides the opportunity for planners to learn about what Sioux Falls can offer tour groups when developing their travel schedules for the coming programs. The Sioux Falls CVB offers tour operators lodging assistance and customized itinerary planning for each of their visits.
CVB to attend religious tradeshow
The Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) will head to Minneapolis Jan. 29Feb. 1 to attend the 40th Religious Conference Management Association (RCMA) conference, recently rebranded as Emerge.
The conference will include revamped tutorials, expanded trade show hours and more networking opportunities including a lounge in the exhibit hall, mini tutorials, information booths and other interactive activities. The expanded trade show hours will offer the chance to schedule one-on-
one appointments prior to the show, giving suppliers the opportunity to sit down with planners and discuss future business and meetings, a completely new feature at the conference.
The Sioux Falls CVB will also showcase the city in an exhibit booth promoting Sioux Falls as a host city for future religious business. If you are a religious meeting planner in the Sioux Falls area, contact the CVB to help your organization plan an event or meeting in Sioux Falls: (605) 336-1620.
I B G R Merry & May your New Year be
Bring your next meeting home
Sioux Falls wants to host your next convention, meeting, reunion and event. Sioux Falls offers so many things, from great host facilities and unique venues to numerous events and attractions that attendees of all ages will enjoy. Showcase the city you call home.
Let the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) provide their expertise and innovative ideas to bring your gathering home and be one of the most memorable events ever. The CVB is here to help in a variety of ways: contact organization for event requirements, review and evaluate event requirements, gather accommodation bids from Sioux Falls hotels and facilities assemble sales packets for selection committee and assist in sales presentations to the selection committee.
Once Sioux Falls has been chosen to host your group, let the CVB go to work for you. The CVB offers a number of help-
ful services to increase attendance, provide hassle-free registration, plan city tours and more.
The CVB promotes Sioux Falls as a top convention, meeting and event destination to create an economic benefit for Sioux Falls. Help bring your meeting home and share the hospitality and enthusiasm that has made Sioux known as a No. 1 host city in the heart of America. Email sales@siouxfalls.com to get started.
The river greenway is just one of the many attractions Sioux Falls has to offer.
JANUARY
2-6 Winter Wonderland
4 First Friday
5 Christmas with the Animals
5-6 Benson’s Flea Market
12 South Dakota Symphony performs Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No 3
17 A Chorus Line
18-19 Downtown Crazy Days
18-20 Greater Sioux Falls Outdoor Show
19 Hadden Sayers
22-26 Sioux Empire Farm Show
23-25 Sioux Falls Farm Show
25 Sales of Champions
26 Ice Fish Fest
26-27 South Dakota Symphony performs Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto
29 Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet: Moulin Rouge
FEBRUARY
1 First Friday
2-3 Benson’s Flea Market
5-7 West Side Story The Musical 6 Jeff Dunham
8-10 RV Expo
8-10 WinterFest of Wheels
10 South Dakota Symphony performs Stained Glass Series
16-17 Greater
MARCH
1 First Friday 2-3 Benson’s Flea Market
8 Danu
8-10
9
9-12
15-17
Sioux Empire Home Show
South Dakota Symphony performs Jeans’n Classics: The Music of Michael Jackson
Summit League Basketball Tournament
South Dakota Horse Fair
16 St . Patrick’s Day Parade
16-17 Billy Elliot The Musical
17
South Dakota Symphony performs Stained Glass Series
23 Ag Day at the Pavilion
23
South Dakota Taxidermist
State Competition
29-30 Addams Family The Musical
30-31 Motorcycle Expo
APRIL
4 Harlem Globetrotters
5 First Friday
5 An Evening with Amy Grant
5 Lee Ritenour
6-7
6-7
CHAMBER CALENDAR
GOOD MORNING SIOUX FALLS
LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST
Thursday, Jan. 3, 2013
7-8:30 a.m.
Best Western PLUS Ramkota Hotel
3200 W. Maple St. RSVP to 373.2014 or plund@siouxfalls.com
Cost: $20 for members, $40 for non-members.
BUSINESS SENSE WORKSHOPS
Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013
Social Networking Primer
Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2013
Community Growth-A Culture of Collaboration
Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2013
Majority Rules – Surviving & Prospering in a Maturing Market
Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2013
Marketing Matters: The Bottom Line Value of a Positive Image
All workshops held Noon-1 p.m. at The Ivy Room, 2425 S Shirley Ave., #118 RSVP to 373.2002 or kfoley@siouxfalls.com
Cost: $10 for members/per workshop or $20 for non-members/per workshop
JANUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER
Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013
5-6:30 p.m.
Billion Chevrolet 4200 W. 12th St.
Sponsored by Billion Chevrolet RSVP to 373.2050
Cost: $3
South Dakota Symphony performs Mozart’s Requiem
Benson’s Flea Market
7 Hot Rod Swap
12-14 SEKC Agility Trial
14 South Dakota Symphony performs Stained Glass Series
19 Seussical the Musical
20 Party for the Planet
20-21 South Dakota Spring Show
26 The Spencers: Theatre of Illusion
27
MAYOR’S ROUND-UP & SALE OF CHAMPIONS
Friday, Jan. 25, 2013
5:30 p.m. Social Hour, 6:30 p.m. Dinner, 7:30 p.m. Program
Best Western PLUS Ramkota Hotel Exhibit Hall, 3200 W. Maple St.
Sponsored by the Chamber’s Agri-Business Division as part of the annual Sioux Empire Farm Show
Chamber members: watch your inbox for more information.
LEGISLATIVE COFFEES
Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013
Saturday, Feb. 2, 2013
Saturday, Feb. 9, 2013
Saturday, Feb. 23, 2013
10 a.m.-Noon
Holiday Inn City Centre, 100 W. 8th St.
Featuring legislators from Districts 6, 9, 11-15
Cost: Free and open to the public Call 373.2054 for more information.
FEBRUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER
Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2013
5-6:30 p.m.
Old Courthouse Museum 200 W. 6th St.
Co-sponsored by Siouxland Heritage Museums & Koch Hazard Architects RSVP to 373.2050
Cost: $3
SIOUX FALLS DAY AT THE LEGISLATURE
Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2013 All day trip to Pierre. Details to come.
Contact Sara Weber at sweber@siouxfalls.com or 373.2006 for more information.
South Dakota Symphony performs with Dawn Upshaw
Agri-Business Citizen of the Year says people make the difference
BY AMY SMOLIK Marketing & Communications Manager
Auctioneer Joel Westra graciously said he is just one spoke in the wheel that makes the Chamber’s annual Sioux Empire Farm Show successful. For his efforts, Westra has been named the Agri-Business Citizen of the Year. He’ll be recognized at the Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions during the 60th Annual Sioux Empire Farm Show in January.
Since the mid-‘80s, Westra has volunteered as the head auctioneer for the Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions, a dinner and auction that pays thousands of dollars in premiums to the top livestock market producers from the Sioux Empire Farm Show. He thinks he might have missed one due to travel or weather, but has been a mainstay at this annual agricultural event.
“Everybody’s job is important — the clerks, the ringmen, the people who arrange for the buyers to bid,” Westra said of the annual sale.
He’s humbled by being named the AgriBusiness Citizen of the Year, but says he’s no different than anyone else. “We all work hard to support our families. Everyone in this community is so caring and so compassionate. The friendships I’ve formed from the Farm Show, the business community and the farming community around here … thank you is not enough to say because the people are so good.”
A native of Lennox, Westra graduated from South Dakota State University with a degree in broadcast journalism. He moved to New Ulm, Minn., hometown of his wife, Vickie, to work at radio station KNUJ and later WNAX in Yankton.
In 1980, he decided to go to auctioneering school in Mason City, Iowa, a one-week education that started a lifetime of auctioneering. In 1983, the Westras relocated to the Sioux Falls area, moving to an acreage just north of Beresford in Lincoln County. Westra went to work for the Sioux Falls Stockyards, where he was an auctioneer and radio and television market reporter for 26 years until it closed in 2009.
When it was open, the Sioux Falls Stockyards was the largest stockyards in the nation. The 70s, ‘80s and ‘90s were the busiest years, Westra said, with 5,000 to 10,000 feeder pigs
and 6,500 to 9,000 feeder and slaughter cattle being auctioned weekly in its heyday. Westra remembers buyers and sellers from across the Midwest: Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas and Colorado.
Following the closing of the Stockyards, Westra, his oldest son, Joel Andrew, and an old friend, Pete Atkins, decided to go into the auctioneering business together and formed Westra Atkins Land & Auction, LLC. Westra and Atkins had served on the Chamber’s Agri-Business Council together. The two went to high school and college together, though Westra is quick to point out Atkins is a few years younger. Most of their work is done in southeast South Dakota and northwest Iowa, but as Westra said, “if someone has something to sell and there’s somewhere we need to go, we go.”
His favorite part of being an auctioneer is the people. He likes that he gets to work with both buyers and sellers and that his job is to connect them.
“Most of the time, we’re helping people sell a major lifetime investment and we have one chance to sell it right for them,” he said. “In the Midwest, people are friendly, honest and hardworking.”
Both of Westra’s sons, Joel Andrew and Ben, also help with the business, with his wife Vickie clerking the sales. He enjoys working with his family and providing an opportunity for his sons to learn the business. Westra said his background in broadcast journalism, agriculture and “gift of gab” have all contributed to his career. He estimates he’s sold over 5,000 auctions in his 32year career.
ducer is from South Dakota.
“The support is tremendous,” he said. “It’s a great thing to live in the Midwest.”
Westra also farms in his spare time, raising corn, soybeans and he owns some stock cows. At age 86, Westra’s father is still farming as is his son, Joel Andrew.
In the last five months, Westra said he’s realized how delicate life really is. “If you’ve got your health, you’ve got everything,” he said.
Hometown: Lennox
Business: Westra Atkins Land & Auction, LLC
Education: Lennox High School, South Dakota State University
Westra and Atkins are set to team up again at the 2013 Sale of Champions auction, where Westra will also be recognized. In his years at the Sioux Empire Farm Show, Westra has been impressed with the overwhelming support of the business community in paying premiums to Farm Show livestock producers. In 2012, more than $58,000 was paid out to 22 market livestock producers. Westra remembers his first Sale of Champions auctions where the top market steer premium would get a few hundred dollars; today, the Grand Champion Market Steer can command $5,000-$7,000, particularly if the pro-
The Westras’ daughter, Liz, has been at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., since late July 2012 after a heart surgery followed by a bad reaction to medication she received as a result of the surgery. It’s been a roller coaster last few months, but Westra was hopeful that his daughter would be able to come home by early January — “it would be the best gift we could hope for,” he said.
“Whatever we have is a blessing and our responsibility is to share it with others,” he said. “This life is very short. We need to enjoy it, work hard and count our blessings.”
Family: wife Vickie; children: Liz, transplant coordinator at Avera McKennan, and husband T J Yerdon, civil engineer at HDR, and children Lily (5) and Leah (2) of Sioux Falls; Joel Andrew (Joey), farms and works at Westra Atkins Land & Auction, and wife Lisa and son Jake (1) of Chancellor; and Ben, works at Showplace Kitchens in Harrisburg, and wife Nicole, a registered nurse, of Canton
Community & Agricultural Involvement: Sioux Empire Farm Show volunteer since 1983, Advisory Board SDSU Foundation’s Opportunity Farm, South Dakota Auctioneer Association, active member Delaware Reformed Church .
Joel Westra was named the Agri-Business Citizen of the Year by the Chamber’s Agri-Business Divison.
Willard family keeps farming tradition alive Farm Family of the Year
BY AMY SMOLIK Marketing & Communications Manager
Jim Willard started driving a tractor on his family’s farm when he was about 8 years old and the only time he ever left the farm was his stint in basic training for the National Guard right out of high school. His brother, Roger, just has farming “in his blood,” according to his wife.
Jim, Roger, and Jim’s son, Mike, keep the family farm tradition alive and well at the Willard Family Farm just outside of Colton, S.D. The Willards have been named the Farm Fam-
ily of the Year by the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce’s Agri-Business Division. They will be recognized at the 60th Annual Sioux Empire Farm Show, sponsored by the Chamber, in late January.
The Willards have attended the Sioux Empire Farm Show for years, with their kids showing animals at the 4H show. Mike also helps with the animal judging contest.
The Willard Family Farm started in 1878 when Jim and Roger’s great-grandfather, Levi, homesteaded the land just southwest of Colton. He passed it down to Elmer, their grandfather,
who passed it down to Merle, their father. The brothers purchased the farm from their dad in 1974 and raised their families on the original homestead. Mike and his family live just a few miles away.
Neither Jan, Jim’s wife, nor Sherry, Roger’s wife, grew up on a farm — both were teachers in Luverne, Minn., when one of the Willard brothers’ sisters introduced them to Jim and Roger.
“I said I’d never marry a pig farmer, and guess what I did?” Sherry said of a statement she made before meeting her husband, Roger.
They recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary.
Once married, both Willard wives helped at the farm and raised their children, living just a stone’s throw away from each other on the original homestead site.
The Willard Farm was diverse with cattle, hogs and crops. Roger and Sherry also had horses for a time. Today, they still raise corn and soybeans, with a combined 1,600 acres between the brothers and Mike. Mike’s operation is separate from his father and uncles, but the three men work together to take care of the crops. Mike also raises stock cows.
Mike’s love of agriculture was cemented through participation in 4H and FFA while growing up. He went on to study animal science at South Dakota State University. When he was a sophomore in college, there was an opportunity to purchase a farm in the Colton area from an older couple who didn’t have children to pass it down to.
“I didn’t hesitate,” he said when presented with the opportunity.
Both Jim and Roger know the challenges for young farmers today. In their time, they saw interest rates go through the roof in the 1980s and cattle prices go up and down.
“Land prices have increased and every cost keeps going up,” Jim said. “Farms are way bigger than they used to be to make it work.”
Now in their early 70s, though you wouldn’t know it by looking at them, the brothers aren’t sure what the future of farming holds. They both want to work as long as they can.
“It’s more complicated and more technical than it used to be,” Jim said.
Farming today is more “mental” labor than manual labor, Roger said. “There’s lots of technology to keep up with and to figure out how to use
Jim & Jan Willard, children: Mike, wife Jamie (Adorns gift shop in Colton), children: Bella (14), Vincent (10), Cruz (3), Dolce (17 months) live in Colton; Debbie Meyer (pre-school teacher) husband Travis, Northwest Energy, and children Ellie (8) and Claire (4), live in Sioux Falls; Laura Jensen (kindergarten teacher at TriValley), husband Tim, works at Cross Country Freight Solutions, live in Colton Roger & Sherry Willard, children: Kim (insurance agent), husband Jeff Snell (Dakota Fiberglass), children: Abby (10), Jaycee (8) and Bryce (4), live in Webster; Kory (owns Dakota Dog Training), wife Audrey (Executive Director of the Sertoma Butterfly House), live in Sioux Falls .
it. It’s tougher for us old guys.”
A tractor that would have cost $2,000 back when their father was farming would now cost upwards of $160,000. They both acknowledge that the machinery is much more technical, too, making it more challenging to work on. It’s also more productive, too – what would take them an entire day to plant 40 acres can now plant 160 acres in about eight hours.
“We’ve done everything together, fifty-fifty,” Jim said of his partnership with his brother. In the later years, they’ve done a few things separately be able to pass parts of the farm and machinery to the next generation equitably.
Mike’s goal when he first started was to be a low-cost producer, he said. Over the years, he’s realized that to be successful he needs to continue to increase production, not skimp on expenses or to find a niche.
When Mike thinks about the future, he thinks of giving his four children an opportunity to continue the family tradition. The older kids have also already participated in 4H, following in his footsteps.
“I won’t push them into it,” he said, though he admits to giving them tractors for birthday or Christmas presents.
ABOVE: Mike, Jim and Roger Willard are pictured in front of the Willard Family Farm. The Willard Family Farm started in 1878 when Jim and Roger’s great-grandfather, Levi, home steaded the land just southwest of Colton. He passed it down to Elmer, their grandfather, who passed it down to Merle, their father. The brothers purchased the farm from their dad in 1974 and raised their families on the original homestead. Mike and his family live just a few miles away.
RIGHT: The Willard Family Farm celebrated its centennial in 1978. The Willard brothers are the fourth generation to operate on the homestead and Mike is the fifth generation. They still have some of the original docu ments from when the land was settled and when their family was featured in a story in the 1950s, shown in this photo.
The Farm Family of the Year & Agri-Business Citizen of the Year will be recognized at the Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions dinner and auction on Friday, Jan. 25 during the 60th Annual Sioux Empire Farm Show.
FACES & PLACES/COMMUNITY APPEALS
Faces & Places is great way to use your membership to be seen This column appears each month in Chamber News and features news about Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce members and volunteers
Due to space restrictions, each item for Faces & Places should be no more than three sentences in length The editor reserves the right to determine what is newsworthy and included in the column Items that will not be accepted include information on email changes, seminars and special event promotions that would be better addressed through advertising venues
To submit your news, use the Faces & Places form at www .ChamberNews .com, email asmolik@siouxfalls com and put Faces & Places in the subject line, or mail your news to Chamber News, PO Box 1425, Sioux Falls, SD 57101-1425 Editorial and advertising deadlines are listed under the News & Publications link at www SiouxFallsChamber com .
RECOGNITION OF CHAMBER VOLUNTEERS
David Johnson, DAKOTACARE, was awarded Diplomat of the Month and the Ribbon Cutting Attendance honors for November. Second place honors went to Daren Anderson, Big D Technology Solutions/Big D Online Solutions, and third place honors went to Julie Nelson, Great Western Bank. Teri Roest, SpeedConnect, was the recipient of the Retention Award.
The Diplomat Team of the Month for November was: Captain David Johnson, DAKOTACARE; Janel Cole, Cole Notary, LLC; Duane Noerenberg, Anderson Group CPA; Jill Dawson, American Family Insurance-Jill M. Dawson Agency; and Mike Larson, Swenson Investments & Commodities.
NEW FACES & PROMOTIONS
Home Federal Bank announced several new staff members and promotions. Jerald
Haase is the new Computer Operations Manager in the Information Systems Department.
Haase has more than 15 years of Information Systems and Management experience. Jay Soukup is a Business Banker at the Sioux Falls corporate office. Soukup has experience in finance and business in the Sioux Falls area. Kathy Johnston is the new Business Intelligence Analyst in the Accounting/Finance department. Johnston has experience in the banking, accounting and customer relations. Matt Hieb was promoted to Consumer Loan Underwriter. Most recently, Hieb was the Branch Manager at the Sioux Falls Main branch and the 26th & Sycamore HyVee in-store branch; he joined Home Federal Bank in September 2002. Matt Nelson was promoted to Business Banker at Home Federal Bank’s corporate office in downtown Sioux Falls. He started with Home Federal Bank in 2004. Tiffani Turner was promoted to Branch Manager of Home Federal Bank’s 41st & Terry branch and 26th & Marion Road Hy-Vee in-store location. Turner began her career with Home Federal
Bank in December 2004 at the Colman branch and most recently held the position of Personal Banker/Supervisor at the 26th and Sycamore Hy-Vee in-store branch.
Bill Peterson is the Vice President/Resource Development for Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota. Previously, Peterson served as Vice President/Public Affairs Officer for CNA/Western Surety Company for nearly 25 years. Peterson has a long history of community and state involvement, including eight years as a member of the South Dakota House of Representatives.
Gage Brothers Concrete Products Incorporated promoted three new vice presidents: David Honner to Vice President of Finance, Joe Bunkers to Vice President of Preconstruction, and Chuck Smith to Vice President of Operations. Honner has been a Certified Public Accountant since 1992 and joined the company
in 1998 as a Controller. In 2006, Honner was promoted to Chief Financial Officer. As Vice President of Finance, Honner will continue his duties as CFO and also oversee human resources and safety. Bunkers started in the drafting department in 1999 and he has since worked in various departments throughout Gage Brothers including quality control, project management, and sales. Smith joined Gage Brothers in 2006 as Director of Project Management. As Vice President of Operations, Smith will oversee all plant operations, project management, engineering, and quality control.
NEW NAME
DeWild Grant Reckert and Associates Company is now DGR Engineering. The new name is built upon the initials of the company’s three founders. The company has offices in Sioux Falls and Rock Rapids and Sioux City, Iowa.
Teri Roest SpeedConnect
Julie Nelson Great Western Bank
DAKOTACARE
2012
Economic Census due Feb. 12
Millions of businesses across the U.S. should have received an Economic Census form, which was sent out to all but the very smallest businesses. The forms ask for basic information such as: location, payroll, employment and sales by type of product or service. The Economic Census is done once every five years and businesses that receive a form are required by law to respond; the due date for the latest census is Feb. 12, 2013.
It is important that businesses participate in the Economic Census as Federal agencies rely on the data as the basis for key measures of economic activity, such as
JOIN THE CHAMBER!
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and monthly retail sales. State and local agencies also use the data for economic development and regional planning. The first data from the Economic Census is scheduled to be published in December 2013. Many businesses use this data to support business decisions and for planning purposes, such as identifying potential markets for growth, starting a new business, evaluation location and investment decisions and when applying for a loan.
For more information, visit business. census.gov, email econ@census.gov, or call (877) 790-1876.
Contact the Chamber’s Membership Department or any Ambassador to learn about the many benefits of belonging to the region’s premier business organization. Call 605.336.1620, email sfacc@siouxfalls.com or go to siouxfallschamber.com to learn more.
Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce
2013 Legislative Platform
Approved by Issues Management Council on Dec . 6, 2012
Approved by the Executive Committee on Dec 17, 2012
Approved by the Board of Directors on Dec 19, 2012
INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING
The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce supports continued efforts to expand the infrastructure of the Sioux Falls area to accommodate and stimulate continuing growth of the area and to work with other communities statewide to enhance business and economic development in the South Dakota. The effort should be directed particularly for deteriorating roads and bridges around the state resulting in significant increased costs as indicated by legislative interim studies and legislative testimony.
EDUCATION FUNDING
Funding for education at all levels must be found to ensure the future of our community and state. The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce advocates well-rounded, quality education that provides individuals the chance to reach their own life goals. The Chamber strongly supports efforts to adequately fund an effective, efficient system of K-12, technical and post-secondary schools, both locally and statewide. The Chamber urges continued dialogue regarding population growth in the Sioux Falls area and the effect on regional school districts. It is important to maintain an employment environment that retains quality education to ensure future economic development and tax base.
K-12 — The Chamber suggests that the legislature make every effort to fully-fund the state’s K-12 formula of 3 percent or inflation, whichever is less. The Chamber also recommends that additional available funds should be used to help restore cuts to K-12 education.
REGENTAL
SYSTEM — The Chamber recommends that the legislature carefully consider the Regents’ highest budget priorities, which include state salary policy as well as funding for critical projects included in Gov. Daugaard’s recommended FY14 budget: a new Ph.D. degree program in physics; state investment in maintenance and repair of academic buildings and infrastructure; and research initiatives in the areas of human and animal health, energy independence, and environmental sustainability.
TECHNICAL INSTITUTES — Student enrollment in the state’s four technical institutes has increased significantly. In order for the technical institutes to meet the workforce demands of South Dakota, they need to have the resources to make it possible. Costs con-
tinue to rise particularly in regard to serving larger numbers of students. The Chamber believes that increasing the PSA (per student allocation) is an investment in the workforce of tomorrow and is critical for continued economic development. The Chamber is supportive of an increase in the state bonding level for technical schools in order to build a new building on the STI campus.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Chamber believes that in order to enhance efforts to entice businesses to expand in South Dakota, funds need to be available to create funding to replace initial excise and sales taxes that will lead to the company’s choice to expand and create jobs. Similarly, funds need to be available to assist in funding to replace the initial excise and sales taxes to attract new businesses and jobs to South Dakota. The Chamber recommends that a replacement (for HB 1230) be enacted to create a fund to help expanding and new companies to build and hire in South Dakota. The fund should be transparent and it should have rules that relate to number of good jobs, capital investment and length of stay in the state.
TOURISM TAX
The original one penny tourism tax began in 1995. An additional half-penny was added in 2009 with a sunset of 2011, which was renewed for two years in 2011. The halfpenny saved some great programs by replacing general funds that were cut. The visitor industry wanted to continue funding at the then-present level because general funds were being removed from the tourism budget. The funding saved the South Dakota Arts Council, State’s Historical Research Center (vital for road construction) as well as important marketing of state tourism. Out-of-state visitors pay 77 percent of this additional tax; 100 percent of the revenue allocated from the half-penny tax allowed the Department of Tourism to fund cooperative marketing programs with entities around the state, such as Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Custer State Park, Hot Springs, Huron, and others through a matching dollar program. The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce and Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau have been strong advocates to retain this tax. Therefore, the Chamber recommends that the half-penny Tourism Tax be retained.
Congratulations to the following members who are celebrating their 25-plus, 20-, 15-,10- and five-year membership anniversaries in January 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
25+ YEARS
Argus Leader Media
Member Since 1907
200 S. Minnesota Ave.
Berry Plastics
Member Since 1979
1800 N. M Ave.
Christopherson, Bailin & Anderson, L.L.P.
Member Since 1907
509 S. Dakota Ave.
First PREMIER Bank
Member Since 1914
601 S. Minnesota Ave.
Fryn’ Pan Restaurants
Member Since 1974
3215 S. Carolyn Ave.
Graybar Electric Company, Inc.
Member Since 1983
2810 N. 1st Ave.
Great Western Bank
Member Since 1978
200 E. 10th St. #100
Henry Carlson Co.
Member Since 1919
1205 W. Russell St.
J.H. Larson Company
Member Since 1984
3501 S. Phillips Ave.
Lynn, Jackson, Shultz & Lebrun, PC
Member Since 1983
110 N. Minnesota Ave. Ste. 400
Magellan Pipeline Co.
Member Since 1983
5300 W. 12th St.
Mathison’s
Member Since 1977
1038 N. Minnesota Ave.
MidAmerican Energy Company
Member Since 1907
1200 S. Blauvelt
Dr. Dennis Murschel
Member Since 1976 1402 W. 41st St.
Sioux International, Inc.
Member Since 1977
6401 W. 12th St.
South Dakota Air
National Guard/114 Fighter Wing Member Since 1976 1201 W. Algonquin St.
South Dakota Symphony
Member Since 1986
301 S. Main Ave.
Ward Whitwam, Architect
Member Since 1988
401 E. 8th St. #200C
Xcel Energy
Member Since 1916
500 W. Russell St.
YMCA
Member Since 1919 230 S. Minnesota Ave.
20 YEARS
Bob Boyt
Sioux Falls
Diesel Machinery, Inc. 4301 N. Cliff Ave.
15 YEARS
State Farm InsurancePriebe Insurance Agency, Inc. 5122 W. 26th St.
Waddell & Reed, Inc.-
Gayleen Riedemann Sioux Falls
10 YEARS
Murphy, Goldammer & Prendergast, L.L.P.
101 N. Phillips Ave. #402
5 YEARS
Ayres & Associates
Sioux Falls
Bank of the West 4900 S. Minnesota Ave. #200
Brian Burkhart Dell Rapids, SD
Cherapa Place, LLC
300 N. Cherapa Pl. #601
Dakota Spirit
Cheer Parents 3910 W. 59th St.
Lincoln County Airport 47010 Great Planes Pl.
Vaaler Insurance, Inc. 5000 S. Broadband Ln.
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 All addresses are Sioux Falls unless otherwise listed . Please support these businesses when making purchases and business decisions A complete member directory is published each year listing all Chamber members in alphabetical order and by category, including a “Who’s Who” listing; it is distributed each fall An online membership directory can be found at www siouxfallschamber com If you are a current member, you may also update your records online Want to become a member? Call 605 336 1620
Convergent Nonprofit Solutions
Associate Member
Andy Coe, (919) 518-3223
100 Parkcrest Dr., Cary, NC, 27519 www.convergentnonprofit.com
Dakota Silencer/ FFL123.com Firearms
Manufacturer & Dealer
Brandon Maddox, (605) 254-2811
6809 S. Minnesota Ave. #203, 57108 www.dakotasilencer.com
Farm Bureau Financial Services-Nathan R. Lindeman
Affiliate-Insurance
Nathan R. Lindeman, (605) 359-6391
4804 S. Minnesota Ave. #101, 57108
Flyboy Donut
Associate Member
Kari Hoff & Aaron Spaan, (605) 368-9004
500 E. Figzel Court, Tea, SD 57064
Ground Works
Associate Member
Rev. Tim Olsen, (507) 227-5919
PO Box 91443, 57109 www.groundworks-midwest. com
Lock It and Leave
It Storage
Storage-Personal & Commercial
Megan Pederson, (605) 496-3964
3612 W. Teem Dr., 57107 www.lockitandleaveitstorage. com
MED-Star Paramedic Ambulance, Inc.
Associate Member
Jay Masur, (605) 582-6096 PO Box 512, Brandon, SD, 57005 med-starambulance.com
Men’s Wearhouse Men’s Clothing
Jonathan Clarey, (605) 361-1117
3801 W. 41st St., 57106 www.tmw.com
FEBRUARY MEMBERSHIP
Meritus Group Real Estate
Real Estate
John Maurer, (605) 521-1183
5000 S. Minnestoa Ave. #400, 57108 www.gettheagent.com
Phnom Penh Restaurant Asian Cuisine Restaurants
Sanya Chheng (605) 332-3935
1010 N. Minnesota Ave., 57104
Premier Tax Service Tax Services
Todd Spomer, (605) 274-9994
1921 S. Minnesota Ave., 57105 www.premiertax1040.com
Rew’s TV & Appliance Appliances-Major Dealers
Jeff Arlt, (605) 334-0919
4005 E. 10th St., 57103 www.rewstv.com
Stone Group Architects
Architects
Todd Stone, (605) 271-1144
2901 E. 57th St. #103, 57108 www.stonegrouparchitects. com
MIXER
TUESDAY, FEB. 5, 2013
5-6:30 P.M.
Old Courthouse Museum
200 W. 6th St.
• Admission $3
Contact the Chamber’s Membership Department or any Ambassador to learn about the many benefits of belonging to the region’s premier business organization. Call 605.336.1620, email sfacc@siouxfalls.com or go to siouxfallschamber.com to learn more.
CO-SPONSORED BY
• Complimentary hors d’oeuvres & Cash Bar
RSVP to 605.373.2050 or sseachris@siouxfalls.com
MEET US AT THE MIXER
Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Billion Chevrolet, 4200 W. 12th St.
Join us at the January Mixer. Mix and mingle with Chamber members, and remember to bring your business cards.
Cost: $3
YPN MORNING BUZZ
Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013
7:30-8:30 a.m.
Panera Bread, 5117 S. Louise Ave.
Join other young professionals for an exchange while getting your morning (coffee) buzz. Learn from one another over breakfast. Bring a friend or stop by and meet a new one. Open to all young professionals.
Cost: Free to attend, breakfast/coffee on your own.
YPN+ LUNCH WITH ANGELA KENNECKE
Thursday, Jan. 10, 2013
12:45-1:45 p.m.
Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, 200 N. Phillips Ave.
Join a group of young professionals for lunch with KELO-TV anchor Angela Kennecke. Angela will visit with the group about making decisions that impacted her professional career and her family responsibilities. As a working mom, she knows the challenges of work/life balance all too well. Limited Seating. Open to YPN members only.
Cost: Free to attend, brown bag lunch.
POWER LUNCH
Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2013
Noon-1 p.m.
Grille 26, 1716 South Western Ave.
Join a group of young professionals for lunch. This is your opportunity to network, meet other young professionals and exchange business cards.
Cost: Free to attend, lunch on your own.
OUR SIOUX FALLSICE SPORTS ASSOCIATION
Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2013
11:45 a.m.-1 p.m.
Sioux Falls Development Foundation, Briefing Center, 200 N. Phillips Ave. Ice Sports Association was founded to improve the quantity and quality of indoor ice skating opportunities for Sioux Falls and the surrounding area. The SCHEELS IcePlex will include three sheets of indoor ice, with room to expand to four as demand grows, and will be located at the Sanford Sports Complex in north Sioux Falls. Come learn more about this project, why our community needs this facility, who will use it, when it will be built, and funding through the community appeals process.
Cost: Free to attend, complimentary lunch.
JANUARY OFF THE CLOCK
Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013
4-7 p.m.
Grille 26, 1716 South Western Ave. Join us at the January Off the Clock. Network with young professionals and bring your friends. No need to be a YPN member to attend. Gift card drawings will take place at 5:30PM. Specials include: half prize pizzas, $2 off all appetizers, $3 house wines/well drinks, $1 off all tall tap beer and $2 off margaritas. Cost: Free to attend, food/beverages on your own.
To RSVP to any of these events, email ljarding@siouxfalls.com or call (605) 373-2009
Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce COMMUNITY APPEALS SCHEDULED FUND
Ice Sports Association
Nov . 1, 2012-March 29, 2013
$1 54 million
Construct a new, three-sheet ice facility
Sioux Falls Tennis Association
April 1-July 31, 2013
$1 million
Construct an indoor tennis center
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Sioux Falls
Nov 1, 2013-March 31, 2014
$1 046 million
Expand current ReStore warehouse facility
DRIVES
Special Olympics South Dakota
April 1-July 31, 2014
$750,000
Complete phases two and three of their new building project
Feeding South Dakota
Nov . 1, 2014-March 31, 2015
$1 2 million New location
The purpose of the Community Appeals Committee is to qualify and provide orderly scheduling of capital fund drives.
For more information on the Community Appeals Committee, call Betty Ordal at 605.373.2010.
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Ribbon cutting ceremonies provide new or expanding businesses an opportunity to promote their products or services These events are organized free of charge for members and are held Monday through Friday at 11:30 a m and 4:30 p m The Chamber invites members of the Board of Directors, members of the Ambassador and Diplomat committees, and local elected officials to share in the event The Chamber member requests the date and the Chamber staff assists by organizing the agenda and providing the ribbon and scissors Ribbon cutting photos are printed in each issue of Chamber News The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce holds ribbon cuttings for members to celebrate joining the Chamber, anniversaries, grand openings, expansions or remodelings
For more information on how to schedule a ribbon cutting, contact Amy Farr at 605 336 1620 or email afarr@siouxfalls com
For more information on how to schedule a groundbreaking, contact Diane Andresen at the Sioux Falls Development Foundation at 605 . 339 0103
Avera Medical Group Comprehensive Breast Center
1000 E 23RD ST
Avera Medical Group Comprehensive Breast Care provides services for breast cancer and other breast diseases. L to R: Amy O’Connor Hoback, Mike Hauck, Dr. David Kapaska (Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center Regional President), Dr. Wade Dosch, Dr. Tricha Merrigan, Dr. Julie Reiland, Daniel Doyle, Eric McDonald and Julie Nelson
3200 W RUSSELL AVE
and an
Blinds
5303 W . 41ST ST .
The Cake Lady
2301 W 50TH ST
The Cake Lady bakery is a retail provider of specialty cakes and confections. L to R: Renee Graves, Jennifer Rothenbuehler, Jermaine Rose Owings, Kristina Wolfe, Anna Andachter (owner), Rick Rysavy, Rob Oliver, Karen Whitcomb, Lynda Billars and Jamie Hagen.
Helping Hands for Haiti
WWW HELPINGHANDSFORHAITI COM
Helping Hands for Haiti focuses on sharing the gospel of Jesus, loving His children and building strong communities. L to R: Shawna Kleinwolterink, Lori Lewison, Liz Lloyd, Shannon Behrend (Board Member), Paul Ten
mineral make-up. L to R: Mike Hauck, Garrett Wilson, Duane Noerenberg, Mercedes Delcid, Katie Clapper (owner), Rick Rysavy, Lynda Billars and Connie Edwards.
ONE AMERICAN BANK
515 S MINNESOTA AVE
ONE AMERICAN BANK
a community bank
and consumer customers. L
and
Brimark Inn
The new Brimark Inn is totally renovated with beautiful rooms
exceptional value, offering a free hot breakfast. L to R: Mayor Mike Huether, Donna Gratzfeld, Karen Noonan, Angie Wahl, Rick Rysavy, Randy Huber (owner), Juli Huber, Daniel Doyle and Mike Hauck Budget
Budget Blinds is a provider of custom blinds and window coverings, offering complimentary in-home consultation, measuring and installation. L to R: Niki Huber, Kayla Haines, Larry Ayres, Jami Jo Hitzemann, Kerry Hammel, Adam Balding (owner), Kristen Hegg Zueger, Tara Balding, Bobbi Nelson, Angie Wahl, Eric Anderson and Bryan Treloar.
La Mystique 5000 EMPIRE MALL
La Mystique specializes in skin care and cosmetics with products such as 24K gold-infused skin care and 100 percent pure
is
ready
capable of assisting the financial needs of business
to R: Bill Kuhl, Bob Laird, Liz Lloyd, Mike Hauck, Per Ostrem, Karen Noonan, David King (CEO), Tiffany Miller, Anita Wetsch, Charles Cole, Juliann Neuroth, JoAnne Landmark, Paul Esser and Lore Rymerson.
Haken, Karen Noonan, Rick Rysavy and Reagan Pruitt.
Pepperjax Grill
2009 W 41ST ST
Pepperjax Grill was founded in 2002 in Omaha, Neb. The restaurant continues to grow and now has 14 locations across Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota and Kansas with more coming in the future. L to R: Travis Koch, Steve Van Buskirk, Trent Smith, Bobbi Nelson, Ryan Wentzel (general manger), Liz Lloyd, Larry Ayres and Bill Rezac
Sioux Falls Candlewood Suites
2725 S CAROLYN AVE
Sioux Falls Candlewood Suites offers comfortable, spacious suites to provide everything you need to live, work and relax while you’re away from home. L to R: David Flannagan, Rick Rysavy, Nancy Weber-Sweere, Kayla Dannenbring (general manager), Deb Boen, Keith Severson and Tammy Beintema.
South Dakota Auto Dealers Association and Trucking Association
3801 S KIWANIS AVE
The South Dakota Auto Dealers Association and Trucking Association are two non-profit trade associations that serve and advocate for 850 franchised dealerships and trucking companies. L to R: Bruce Eide, Karen Noonan, Dean Buckneberg, Myron L. Rau (president), Rick Rysavy, Rick Hoogendoorn and David Johnson.
Starz-Sportz, Food and Brewz
2209 W 57TH ST
Starz-Sportz, Food and Brewz’ focus is on old-school beer, vintage beer signs, sports memorabilia, and food to fulfill your cravings. L to R: Nickole Roberts, David Johnson, Ryan Konz, Rick Thompson (owner), Steve Van Buskirk, Dave Thompson (owner), Brooklyn Thompson, Rick Rysavy, Noah Thompson, Stacey Jans and Jason Olson.
Sioux Empire Farm Show History
1950
Members of the Chamber’s Agricultural Committee begin exploring the possibility of hosting a farm show, The Ag Committee was motivated by some degree by the fact that other winter farm shows in SD and neighboring states were enjoying a high degree of success (Watertown, Sioux City, Rapid City).
1953
One of the first acts of the newly-organized Farm Show Committee was to agree on objectives:
1. To develop a closer and more friendly and cooperative working relationship between the City of Sioux Falls and the agricultural area and agricultural interests of the Sioux Empire.
2. To improve the quality of livestock and the efficiency of the livestock producer within the Sioux Empire area.
3. To provide to farmers and stockmen, educational programs and agricultural exhibits rivaling new and improved technology for accomplishing the highest degree of farm and feedlot production efficiency.
4. To achieve, through a close rural-urban working relationship, an upgraded agricultural economy to a degree that will reflect favorably upon individual, business, industry and community prosperity.
The first Sioux Empire Farm Show would begin the last Monday of January and run for six days. The last Monday of January was used as a starting date for a number of years, slotting the show between the
1954
There weren’t many options for a location for the first Farm Show that could house livestock in the winter months. The first Sioux Empire Farm Show was held in the Sioux Falls Coliseum, Annex and Armory. The first show featured six purebreds and 100 entries. Approximately 18,000 people attended the five-day show.
Each day of the first Farm Show was capped off by entertainment, led by Mort Henkin and Ray Loftesness. Sioux Falls radio stations KISD, KSOO, KELO and KIHO sponsored musical revues.
1957
The “Fat Steer” show was changed to Market Steer, as the consuming public had become more calorie-conscious and were expressing a desire for “lean” not “fat.” The name change would be official in the 1958 show.
1962
The Farm Show exceeded expectations and it was decided a Farm Show Manager was needed. The major responsibilities would be coordinating committee activities and assisting with the overall promotional effort. Myles Johnson served in that role as an employee of the Sioux Empire Fair and the Fair was reimbursed for his time by the Chamber.
1963, 10th Annual Show
An Angus Bull was sold for $2,500 — the highest selling price ever paid for a bull consignment to the Sioux Empire Farm Show.
1966
A Junior Livestock Judging contest was added. Participation was open to 4H and FFA members.
1971
The Chamber formed the Agri-Business Division Council to govern the activities of the Agri-Business Division. They would approve all changes in the overall Farm Show, name volunteer leadership for the show and all other activities.
1973
Just 18 days before the Farm Show, the Coliseum annex was destroyed in a fire and the auditorium suffered severe smoke damage. Many parts of the show were cancelled, but livestock events were moved to the Sioux Falls Stockyards Arena and the fairgrounds in Brookings. The Farm Show Committee began meeting immediately to discuss the future of the show — because of the fire and the need for expanded facilities because of the growth of the show.
1974
Because of a lack of facilities, the show was abbreviated but still held. The Expo Building was under construction at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds.
1975
This was the first year of a full-fledged Sioux Empire Farm Show at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds.
1978
25th Annual Sioux Empire Farm Show, Silver Jubilee
1982
The Chamber first recognizes an Agri-Business Citizen and Farm Family of the Year
1998
The Chamber partners with Midwest Shows, Inc. to sell the commercial exhibits at the show; commercial exhibits are shown at the Arena, Convention Center and north end of the Expo Building
2003
50th Sioux Empire Farm Show
2004
The Mayor’s Round-Up & Sale of Champions moves to the Best Western PLUS Ramkota from the Expo Building
2013
60th Sioux Empire Farm Show, Diamond Jubilee
Schedule of Events
TUESDAY, JAN. 22
4:30 p.m. ..... Ribbon Cutting (Expo Building)
5 p.m. 4H/FFA Invitational Calf Shows
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 23
8 a.m. Market Barrow & Gilt Show
8:30 a.m. Angus Show
8:30 a.m. Simmental Show
11:30 a.m. Simmental Sale
1 p.m. Angus Sale
4:30 p.m. Ribbon Cutting (Convention Center)
THURSDAY, JAN. 24
8 a.m. Hereford Show
8 a.m. Charolais Show
9:30 a.m. Red Angus Show
9:30 a.m. Limousin Show
10:30 a.m. Maine Anjou Show
11:30 a.m. Hereford Sale
12:30 p.m. Charolais Sale
2 p.m. Red Angus Sale
2:45 p.m. Limousin Sale
4:30 p.m. Maine Anjou Sale
6 p.m. Feeder Heifer Show
6 p.m. Market Lamb Show
FRIDAY, JAN. 25
9 a.m. Supreme Row Judging 10:30 a.m. Market Beef Show
11:30 a.m. Feeder Steer Show Noon Market Goat Show
6:30 p.m. ..... Mayor’s Round-up & Sale of Champions $12,000 Supreme Row Cash Awards Presentation, sponsored by Tri-State Neighbor, Wells Fargo Bank (South Dakota) NA and Campbell Supply Co. Best Western PLUS Ramkota Hotel Exhibit Hall
SATURDAY, JAN. 26
6:30 a.m. .... Senior College Livestock Judging Contest
8:30 a.m. Youth & Open Rabbit Show
10 a.m. Junior Livestock Judging Contest
Noon Breeding Beef Heifer Show
1:30 p.m. Announcement of Junior Judging Contest winners
6:30 p.m. Pony Pull
7:00 p.m. Draft Horse Pull
Sioux Empire Farm Show memorabilia