July 2016 Chamber News

Chamber News July 2016

Vol. 51, No. 10

A PUBLICATION OF THE SIOUX FALLS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

AMBASSADORS celebrate 50 years

IN THIS ISSUE COVER STORY

Ambassadors celebrate 50 years................................. 24-29

Chamber News PUBLISHER

Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

FEATURES

Leadership Sioux Falls applications available soon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Advertise in the 2016-17 Sioux Falls Community Guide. . . . . . . . . . . 35

CHAMBER NEWS AD SALES

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

CHAMBER NEWS LAYOUT/DESIGN JILL BLOM

IN EVERY ISSUE: Message from the Chair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Events Calendars. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11 Economic Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Faces & Places. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-22 Business Advocacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-31 Community Appeals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-33 Headlines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31-34 Business News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35, 41 Convention & Visitors Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Chamber Partner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Using Your Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Member Voice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Ribbon Cuttings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43-49 Membership Anniversaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Five Questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 From the Archives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

CHAMBER NEWS EDITOR

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

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

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

Communicate WITH THE

CHAMBER .com/siouxfallschamber @SFAreaChamber @SFAreaAdvocate Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

ON THE COVER The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Committee celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year. Pictured are volunteer Ambassadors from the past 50 years.

Read online or find archived issues: issuu.com/siouxfallschamber

2015-16 SIOUX FALLS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEADERSHIP AND STAFF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR PAUL BRUFLAT CNA Surety CHAIR-ELECT DAVE KAPASKA, D.O. Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center VICE CHAIR STEVE VAN BUSKIRK Van Buskirk Companies TREASURER JOHN HENKHAUS The Everist Company IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR DANA DYKHOUSE First PREMIER Bank PRESIDENT/CEO EVAN NOLTE Chamber of Commerce BOARD OF DIRECTORS WENDY BERGAN JDS Industries RANDY BURY Sanford Health JULIE DARRINGTON CenturyLink GARY GASPAR Interstate Office Products MIKE HAUCK Accord Commercial Real Estate, LLC JAY HUIZENGA KELOLAND-TV DEAN KARSKY Farmers Insurance Group/Karsky Agency MARK MICKELSON Mickelson & Co. BETTY OLDENKAMP Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota ALEX RAMIREZ USA Media TV TIM STURDEVANT Sturdevant’s Auto Parts ROB TEKOLSTE Sammons Financial Group/Midland National Life Insurance Co. BOBBI THURY Legacy Law Firm, P.C. CARL WYNJA U.S. Bank

EX-OFFICIO KENT ALBERTY Sioux Falls School Board 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 ROBERT WEHDE Sioux Falls Catholic Schools CHAMBER & CVB STAFF EVAN NOLTE President/CEO CLAY BAK CVB Sales Manager THANE BARNIER Web Development & IT Manager MATT BARTHEL CVB First Impressions/Project Manager JOAN BARTLING Finance & Accounting Director JILL BLOM Graphics & Communications Specialist SHIRLEY BUSEMAN Receptionist CINDY CHRISTENSEN Agri-Business Division Manager RACHEL CRANE CVB Host City Manager ANNA ELIASON CVB Sales Manager AMY M. FARR Membership Sales & Retention Manager JEFF FEJFAR Web Designer LAUREN FOSHEIM Small Business & Leadership Development Manager JAY KALTENBACH CVB Services/Resale Manager

MARK LEE Public Affairs & Communications Director PAT LUND Membership Development Director MIKE LYNCH Public Affairs & Research Manager JILL NIEDRINGHAUS CVB Sales Assistant WENDY NEUHARTH Membership Services Administrative Assistant KRISTA ORSACK CVB Director of Marketing KATHIE PUTHOFF CVB Administrative Assistant TERI SCHMIDT CVB Executive Director TERESA SCHREIER Public Affairs & Communications Assistant SUSAN SEACHRIS Administrative/Accounting Assistant AMY SMOLIK Marketing & Communications Manager VALERIE WILLSON Membership Events Manager ERIN ZIMMERMAN CVB Sales Manager

chambernews.com | Chamber News 3

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

Volunteers make a difference to Chamber, community The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce has had a profound impact on the region in more than a century of service in executing its mission: to advance and promote the economic health and quality of life of the region. A group that has been instrumental in the Chamber’s growth and influence is the Ambassador Committee, which is charged with selling the benefits of becoming a Chamber member.

PAUL BRUFLAT 2015-16 Chair of the Board

You can influence the future of our community and the Chamber organization as well as make some great friends and business relationships along the way.

Ambassadors help sell Chamber memberships by calling on their contacts and new businesses. They work in teams or with Chamber staff to talk about the value of investing in the community through the Chamber of Commerce.

With critical input from our Ambassadors, the Chamber has expanded and adjusted its member benefits over the years as the community continues to grow and member expectations continue to evolve.

As Chamber Board members, we each serve as a liaison to a Chamber committee during our term of service. Our responsibility is to keep our various committees appraised of actions and issues taking place at the Board level and to also share information with the Board about the important work our committees perform. I had the privilege of working with the Ambassador Committee for a few years during my term. It’s hard to describe the positive impact of this committee of fun, hard-working and dedicated Chamber volunteers who represent a variety of business sizes and industries. Throughout our committee structure, we have many long-time and new volunteers alike.

The blending of wisdom from the veteran and the enthusiasm of the newcomer makes for an exciting and successful committee.

This issue of Chamber News celebrates our Ambassadors. Later this month they’ll be gathering for a reunion and anniversary party. This is a very sociable group and I’m certain they’re all looking forward to the event! Thank you to our current and past Ambassadors for your service to the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce!

For those members who are looking to engage in a volunteer opportunity, I encourage you to look at the options available to you through your Chamber membership. You can influence the future of our community and the Chamber organization as well as make some great friends and business relationships along the way. Contact the Chamber staff to learn more — (605) 336-1620.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 5

CALENDARS

CHAMBER

Events Calendar

Dates, times and locations are subject to change.

For a current listing of all Chamber events, visit siouxfallschamber.com, read the weekly edition of Quickly, or call (605) 336-1620.

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

FEATURED EVENTS

10 a.m. Shotgun Start Willow Run Golf Course, 8000 E. Hwy. 42 DETAILS: Join YPN members for a day of fun, sun and 18 holes of golf!

Form your own team of four or we can add you to a team. Prizes will be awarded at the YPN Off the Clock following the tournament. Cost includes 18 holes of golf, cart, one drink ticket and food.

COST: $75 per individual or $275 per team of four MORE INFORMATION: lfosheim@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2009

JULY MEMBERSHIP

MIXER TUESDAY, JULY 12

YPN GOLF TOURNAMENT THURSDAY, AUG. 25

SPONSORED BY:

4:30-6:30 p.m.

Holiday Inn City Centre, 100 W. 8th St.

SEPTEMBER MEMBERSHIP MIXER TUESDAY, SEPT. 13

4:30-6:30 p.m.

LifeScape, 4100 S. Western Ave. DETAILS: Sponsored by LifeScape COST: $5 or use your Mixer Pass RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010

OPERATION THANK YOU THURSDAY, SEPT. 29

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

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

AUGUST MEMBERSHIP MIXER TUESDAY, AUG. 9

4:30-6:30 p.m.

The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan SocietyPrairie Creek Memory Care, 4309 W. Creekside Dr. DETAILS: Sponsored by The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society-Prairie Creek Memory Care

COST: $5 or use your Mixer Pass RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010

AG APPRECIATION DAY WEDNESDAY, AUG. 10

11 a.m.-1 p.m.

W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds Grandstand DETAILS: Chamber Members: we’re looking for your help to thank area

farmers by sponsoring Ag Appreciation Day! Sponsorships of $150 or more come with the opportunity to help serve lunch on Ag Appreciation Day, which is sponsored by the Chamber’s Agri-Business Division in conjunction with the Sioux Empire Fair.

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

7:30 a.m. Kick-off 4:30 p.m. Wrap-up Holiday Inn City Centre, 100 W. 8th St. DETAILS: Take part in this fun, one-day event where approximately 300 volunteers will hand-deliver Chamber and Sioux Falls materials to other members and say “thank you.” Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are available. Sponsored by the Chamber’s Diplomat Committee.

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

OCTOBER MEMBERSHIP MIXER THURSDAY, OCT. 6

4:30-6:30 p.m.

Brown & Saenger, 621 W. Russell St. DETAILS: Sponsored by Brown & Saenger COST: $5 or use your Mixer Pass RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010

NOVEMBER MEMBERSHIP MIXER & HOLIDAY FAIR TUESDAY, NOV. 22

4:30-7 p.m.

Best Western PLUS Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center, 3200 W. Maple St. DETAILS: This Mixer features the Holiday Fair, with Chamber members

promoting their holiday gifts and service ideas. Booth space is available.

Sponsored by Midco.

COST: $5 or use your Mixer Pass RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010

DECEMBER MEMBERSHIP MIXER TUESDAY, DEC. 13

4:30-6:30 p.m.

The District, 4521 W. Empire Pl. DETAILS: Sponsored by The District COST: $5 or use your Mixer Pass RSVP: vwillson@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2010 chambernews.com | Chamber News 7

In business, it’s not just what you know, it’s who you know.

But what you know is important.

And the Chamber can help with that, too.

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce offers many opportunities for your business and employees to be involved and grow your network. Committees, workshops, seminars, Mixers, ribbon cuttings — we’ve got something for everyone.

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY:

But we also know you’re busy. And that’s why we work hard at improving our economy and quality of life so you can concentrate on your business.

Chamber News is a monthly magazine with business news for members about members.

See other members in the news or let the business community know about your own successes. Share the magazine with your clients and your staff — it’s a great recruiting tool for the positive things happening in the Sioux Falls area.

Read Chamber News online and find archived issues at issuu.com/siouxfallschamber

Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

Young Professionals Network

UPCOMING EVENTS

To RSVP to any of these events, email lfosheim@siouxfalls.com or call (605) 373-2009. Visit siouxfallsypn.com for a full list of events.

YPN NEW MEMBER EVENT THURSDAY, JULY 7

YPN OFF THE CLOCK THURSDAY, JULY 28

YPN MORNING BUZZ-SOUTH WEDNESDAY, AUG. 3

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

COST: Free to attend.

You know what they’re about — connect, unwind and meet new friends!

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

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, food/drinks on your own.

5-7 p.m.

The District, 4521 W. Empire Pl. DETAILS: New to YPN? Check out the New

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS TOUR: SOUTH DAKOTA AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE TUESDAY, JULY 12 12:30-2:45 p.m.

South Dakota Air National Guard Base, 1201 W. Algonquin St. DETAILS: Join us for a tour of the 114th

Fighter Wing on the South Dakota Air National Guard base. Members will have the opportunity to tour the base, talk with leadership and experience the launch of the F-16s. Lunch will also be provided, courtesy of Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve (ESGR). Limited spots are available and open to YPN members only.

COST: Free to attend, lunch provided.

YPN MEMBERSHIP TEAM MEETING WEDNESDAY, JULY 13

4-5 p.m.

Chamber of Commerce, 200 N. Phillips Ave. Suite 200 DETAILS: The YPN Membership Team focuses

4-7 p.m.

Ode to Food & Drink, 300 N. Cherapa Pl. DETAILS: Join us for the July Off The Clock!

SOCIAL TEAM MEETING TUESDAY, AUG. 2

4-5 p.m.

Chamber of Commerce, 200 N. Phillips Ave. Suite 200 DETAILS: The Social Team meets the first

Tuesday of the month at 4 p.m. and is open to ANY member looking to get more involved. The YPN 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.

YPN MORNING BUZZ-DOWNTOWN WEDNESDAY, AUG. 3 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, food/drinks on your own.

7:30-8:30 a.m.

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

YPN PERSONAL & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TEAM MEETING THURSDAY, AUG. 4, 4-5 p.m.

Chamber of Commerce, 200 N. Phillips Ave. Suite 200 DETAILS: The YPN Personal & Professional

Development Team focuses on fostering professional relationships, career development, entrepreneurial endeavors and civic involvement while gaining an insider’s view of our regional business scene and exposing members to a broad range of community issues. It is open to ANY member looking to get more involved and have an input on YPN events and activities. The Personal & Professional Development Team meets every other month on the first Thursday at 4 p.m.

COST: Free to attend, open to everyone.

on membership engagement, growth and retention, and is open to any member looking to get more involved and have input on YPN events and activities. The Membership Team meets every other month on the second Wednesday at 4 p.m.

COST: Free to attend, open to everyone.

Connect WITH THE

YPN

Sioux Falls Young Professionals Network .com/siouxfallsypn @siouxfallsypn

Find us on social media or visit siouxfallsypn.com

chambernews.com | Chamber News 9

JULY

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.

10 Chamber News | JULY 2016

7-9

21st Annual Hot Harley Nights

8-9

Downtown Crazy Days

9 FamilyFest 9

NPC Central USA Championship

9-10

International Senior Softball Association — Heart of America Tournament

13

Hot Summer Nites

13

UFC Fight Night

14-16

25th Annual JazzFest

15

Scotty McCreery

15-16

Indoor Flea Market and Craft Fair

16

Hy-Vee Day at the Zoo

17

The Sparkle Bridal Tour

20

Aaron Lewis

21

Party Like It’s 1945 Hanger Dance

22

Dolly Parton

22

Weezer & Panic! At The Disco!

22

Nitro Circus Live

23-24

Sioux Falls Airshow

24

James Taylor & His All-Star Band

26-30

American Legion Baseball – State A Tournament

28

Jim Gaffigan: Fully Dressed

29-Aug. 7

ASA National Girls Softball Tournament

13

Downtown Riverfest

30

Local Folk Off & Rib Challenge

19-21

Great Plains Balloon Race

20-21

ASA Men’s Slow Pitch E East State Tournament

27

Clayton Jennings

27-28

Dakota Alliance Soccer Club – Fall Kickoff

AUGUST 3

Willie Nelson

5

Downtown Block Party

5

Special Olympics 10th Annual Golf Classic

5

Bike MS: Sanford Health Sioux Falls Ride 2016

SEPTEMBER

5-14

77th Annual Sioux Empire Fair

1-4

LPGA Symetra Tour

6

Outdoor University

2

Downtown Block Party

6

Charles Esten & Clare Bowen

2-4

LifeLight Music Festival

7

The Turnpike Troubadours

6

O.A.R with The Hunts

7 PopROCKS!

9-10

Dakota’s Equality Summit

8

The Beach Boys

10 Germanfest

9

The Melvins

10

Sidewalk Arts Festival

9

3 Doors Down

11

Sioux Falls Marathon

10

Ag Appreciation Day

15-18

Northern Plains Indian Art Market

10

Canaan Smith and Chase Bryant

16-17

Sioux Falls Premier Rodeo

11

Chris Janson with Locash

23

Blake Shelton

11

Journey with the Doobie Brothers

24

Sioux Falls Walk to Defeat ALS

12

Easton Corbin

24

Tom Keifer

12

Beach House

25

Susan G. Komen South Dakota Race for the Cure

28 moe.

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

MAY 2016

APRIL 2016

2,919 PERMITS

2014

Bismarck 2.7%

5,391 PERMITS

2015

2,969 PERMITS

2016

Fargo 2.4%

Source: City of Sioux Falls

City of Sioux Falls Total Construction Value MAY 2016

Rapid City 2.8%

$375 $350

Total Construction Value

$325

New Non-Residential Construction Value

Minneapolis/ St. Paul 4.0% Rochester 3.0%

Sioux Falls 2.2%

Cedar Rapids 3.7% Des Moines 3.3%

Omaha Lincoln 3.2% 2.7%

$300 $275 $250

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

$225

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

$200 $353.0 million $179.3 million

$175 $150

(PER BUSHEL) U.S.

$14

$294.1 million $77.6 million

(IN MILLIONS)

$25

SOYBEANS

$15

$100

$50

APRIL 2016 $16

$125

$75

Agriculture Trends

$13 $12

$249.3 million $28.9 million

2014

SOUTH DAKOTA

2015

2016

Source: City of Sioux Falls

$11 $10

$9.69

$9

$9.08

$9.04

$8.56

$8.64

$8

$8.25

$7

Sioux Falls Region Housing Overview MAY 2016

CORN

$6

(PER BUSHEL) U.S.

$5

New Listings: 624 Days on the Market Until Sale: 90 Median Sales Price: $183,500 Inventory of Homes for Sale: 1,473 Source: RASE (Realtor Association of the Sioux Empire)

$4

$3.75

$3

$3.38

$2

SOUTH DAKOTA

$3.57 $3.58 $3.26 $3.20

April 2015

March April

2015

2016

Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture

chambernews.com | Chamber News 13

Forward Sioux Falls is the proven successful joint venture economic development program between the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce and the Sioux Falls Development Foundation. Since 1987 Forward Sioux Falls has given shared vision and direction to the Sioux Falls area, created new jobs, shaped new opportunities and stimulated capital investment across our region. The results have benefited us all.

44 Interactive, Inc. A & B Business Solutions AB Propane Active Data Systems Active Generations ADP ADwërks Agan Drywall Supply, Inc. Alliance Communications Cooperative, Inc. Alumend AMERI/STAR Real Estate, Inc. American Bank & Trust Anesthesiology Associates, Inc. Architectural Roofing & Sheetmetal, Inc. Architecture Incorporated Argus Leader Media Arndt Family, Ron & Donna Assam Companies Augustana University Auto Body Specialties Avera AWE Financial Badlands Pawn, Gold & Jewelry, LLC Baete-Forseth HVAC Bank Midwest Bankers Trust Company of South Dakota Banner Associates, Inc. Baumgartner’s Electric, Inc. Beck & Hofer Construction, Inc. Bell Incorporated Bender Commercial Real Estate Services Bierschbach Equipment & Supply Big D Technology Solutions, Inc. Bluestem Capital Company, LLC Boen & Associates, Inc. Boyce Law Firm LLP Brandt, Solomon & Anderson, LLP Breadsmith Brown & Saenger Bruning Marketing & Promotions Bryan Wiseman General Contracting Builders Supply Company Building Sprinkler Inc Cadwell Sanford Deibert & Garry LLP Canfield Business Interiors Capital Services Carl V. Carlson Company-Cemcast Casey’s General Stores CellOnly Century Business Products, Inc. CenturyLink Chad Phillips Photography

Children’s Dental Center Scott Christensen Christoffels & Co. Citi City Glass & Glazing, Inc. City of Harrisburg City of Sioux Falls Click Rain, Inc. Climate Systems, Inc. CNA Surety Coca-Cola Bottling CompanyChesterman Company Coffee News of Sioux Falls Commercial Interior Decor, Inc. Complete Real Estate Component Manufacturing/ Reaves Building Systems Confluence Connecting Point Computer Center Construction Products & Consultants Cornerstone Plastering & Drywall, Inc. CorTrust Bank Costello Property Management The Country Club of Sioux Falls Crane & Fowler Investments Creative Surfaces, Inc. Culver’s Restaurants Cutler Law Firm, LLP Dacotah Bank Dakota Allergy & Asthma, LTD Dakota Beverage Company, Inc. Dakota BUSINESS Finance Dakota Digital Dakota Kitchen & Bath, Inc. DataSync Corporation Davenport, Evans, Hurwitz & Smith, LLP Dean Foods/Land O’Lakes Deffenbaugh Home, Inc. Dental Comfort Center Design Tanks, Inc. DGR Engineering The Diamond Room by Spektor Diesel Machinery, Inc. The DISTRICT Ditch Witch of South Dakota, Inc. Dizco, Inc. DocuTAP Dollar Loan Center Donahoe Law Firm, P.C. Dorsey & Whitney Trust Company LLC Dougherty & Company LLC The Dunham Company Dana Dykhouse

Eagle Construction EarthBend East River Electric Power Cooperative, Inc Eberts Construction Edward Jones-Tom Loofe Egger Steel Co. Eide Bailly LLP Electric Construction Company Electric Supply Co., Inc. Elmen Foundation Empire Building Construction Empire Mall/Empire East Epicosity Equity Homes Evans Law P.C. The Everist Company Fair Tax, Inc. Farmers Insurance Group/ Karsky Agency Fernson Brewing Company LLC Fiegen Construction Co. First Bank & Trust First Cash & Exchange First Dakota National Bank First Dakota Title The First National Bank in Sioux Falls First PREMIER Bank/ PREMIER Bankcard First Savings Bank Fischer, Rounds & Associates, Inc. Five Star Call Centers Fox Drywall & Plastering, Inc. Fresh Produce, Inc. Friessen Construction Co., Inc. Frisbees, Inc. The Fruit Club Dale Froehlich Frontier Bank Gage Brothers Concrete Products, Inc. Garry Associates, LLP General Equipment & Supplies, Inc. George Boom Funeral Home & Cremation Services Geotek Engineering & Testing Services, Inc. Getty Abstract & Title Company Gil Haugan Construction Golden West Telecommunications Goldsmith Heck Engineers, Inc. Graham Tire & Automotive Company Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort Grand Prairie Foods Granite Accents, Inc. Great Plains Brokerage

Great Western Bank GreatLIFE Malaska Golf & Fitness Club Hagen, Wilka & Archer, LLP Hander Inc. Plumbing & Heating Handy Man Home Remodeling Center Harms Oil Company Harold’s Photo Centers Hartung Homes, LLC Sharon Haselhoff Hauge Associates, Inc. HDR, Inc. Heartland Glass Co. Hegg Companies, Inc. Hegg Realtors Henry Carlson Co. Herc-U-Lift, Inc. Hjellming Construction Holiday Inn City Centre Holmes Murphy & Associates Home Builders Association of the Sioux Empire (HBASE) Horner Barrow Orthodontics, PC Howalt+McDowell, Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC Company Howe Heating & Plumbing, Inc. HR Green Hy-Vee, Inc. I-90 Fuel Services, Inc./The Gas Stop ICAN, Inc. Innovative Property Management LLC Insight Builders Intek, Cleaning & Restoration Interstate Office Products, Inc. Interstates Control Systems, Inc. J2 Ventures Incorporated dba Beckman Construction JamesDugan, Inc. Jans Corporation JDS Industries, Inc. Jenesis Creative Marketing Jensen Masonry, Inc Jerry’s Auto Sales, Inc. Jim Dunham & Associates Johnson Janklow Abdallah, LLP Journey Group JSA Consulting Engineers/ Land Surveyors, Inc. K & J Trucking Inc. Karl’s TV, Audio & Appliances, Inc. Kaschmitter Appraisals, Inc. KDLT-TV (NBC) Keller Williams Real Estate KELOLAND-TV

Thank you to the following for collectively investing more than $15.528 million over the next five years: Key Staffing Kirby Financial, LLC Joe and Jennifer Kirby Kevin and Peggy Kirby Klockers Mattress World Koch Hazard Architects Kouri Insurance Agency Krier & Blain, Inc. KSFY Television KTTW TV-Fox 17 Kut and Kill L. G. Everist, Inc. Lamfers & Maas, LLP Landscape Garden Centers Lawrence & Schiller, Inc. Lemonly Lewis Drug, Inc. Liberty National Bank Lift Pro Equipment Co., Inc. Lincoln County Lindquist & Vennum LLP Lloyd Companies Logistics Buddy LLC Lounsbery, Mark and Michelle Lutheran Social Services Lynde Construction, Inc. Lynn, Jackson, Shultz & Lebrun, PC Maguire Iron, Inc. Mahlander’s, Inc. Malone Capital Management, Inc. Marco, Inc. Mark Luke Companies, LLC MarketBeat.com Maximizing Excellence, LLC McDonalds Restaurants McGinnis and Company, PC McGowan Capital Group McKinneyOlson Insurance Media One Advertising/Marketing Meierhenry Sargent LLP MetaBank/Meta Payment Systems Metro Construction Chrissy Meyer Michaels Fence & Supply Mickelson & Company MidAmerican Energy Company Midco Midland, Inc. dba Johnstone Supply Midwest Land Surveying Midwest Railcar Repair, Inc. Midwestern Mechanical, Inc. Miller Funeral Home Minnwest Bank Montgomery Furniture MSH Architects, Inc.

Musivend, Inc. Muth Electric, Inc. NAI Sioux Falls Richard & Rebecca Naser Nelson & Nelson CPAs LLP Nelson Commercial Real Estate New York Life Insurance Company Nielson Construction Norman’s Men’s Wear North Central Heart Institute Northern Truck Equipment Corporation NorthWestern Energy Novak Sanitary Service Nyberg’s Ace O’Connell Law Office, Prof. L.L.C. O’Connor Group Betty Oldenkamp Olson Oil/Get-N-Go Olympic Companies, Inc. OmegaQuant, LLC Omnitech, Inc. One American Bank Ophthalmology Ltd. Original Pancake House Orthopedic Institute Outsound Productions Overhead Door Company of Sioux Falls, Inc. P & M Steel Co. Panther Graphics Paradigm Construction/ RMB Associates, LLC Pepsi Beverages Company Peska Construction, Inc. Peterson Goff Real Estate Experts Pharmacy Specialities & Clinic, Inc. Pizza Ranch on 41st Street Plains Commerce Bank Pride Neon Sign Company Principal Financial Group Principal Financial Group-Ron Staebell Pro Garage Doors Qualified Presort Service, LLC R & L Supply, Ltd. Raeco Builders Rainbow International of Sioux Falls Ramkota Companies RAS Raven Industries, Inc. RE/MAX Professionals, Inc.-Joan Cota ReCom, Inc. Reliabank Dakota ReliaMax Holding Company Results Radio-Townsquare Media

Rock Garden Nursery Dave & Tammy Rozenboom RSArchitects RSM US LLP SAB Biotherapeutics, Inc. Sammons Financial Group/Midland National Life Insurance Company Sands Drywall, Inc. Sanford Health Sayre Associates, Inc. Scheels Schoeneman Brothers Company School Bus, Inc. Scott’s Lumber & Supply Co.A Division of Lampert Yards, Inc. SDN Communications Security National Bank of South Dakota ServiceMaster Building & Commercial Maintenance Seykora Remodeling SGT-Stinger Ghaffarian Technologies, Inc. Shaykett Appraisal Co., Inc. Sheehan Mack Sales & Equipment Inc. Mark & Peggy Shlanta Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc. (SEH) Showplace Wood Products, inc.

Signature Flight Support Silverstone Group Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation Sioux Falls Candlewood Suites Sioux Falls Federal Credit Union Sioux Falls Foot Surgeons Sioux Falls Ford, Inc. Sioux Falls Regional Airport Authority Sioux Falls School District 49-5 Sioux Falls Shopping News Sioux Falls Speciality Hospital Sioux Valley Energy Sisson Printing, Inc. Skinner Financial Services SMG dba Sioux Falls Arena Smithfield Sioux Falls Soukup Construction, Inc. South Dakota State University Foundation South Dakota Trust Company LLC Southeast Technical Institute Southeastern Electric Cooperative, Inc. Spectrum Marketing Services SpeedConnect Sprenger Midwest, Inc. Stan Houston Equipment Co., Inc. State Farm Insurance-Aaron Smith State Farm Insurance-Bill Thompson

State Farm Insurance-Jason Ahrendt State Farm Insurance-Jason Durnil State Farm InsurancePriebe Insurance Agency, Inc. State Farm Insurance-Ryan Reiner State Farm Insurance-Ty Teveldal Sturdevant’s Auto Parts Surgical Management Professionals, LLC Sweetman Construction Co./ Concrete Materials Tallgrass Wealth Management TCF Bank Robert & Kari TeKolste Tessier’s, Inc Bob & Joan Thimjon Thompson Electric Company Thornton Flooring Thurman & Thurman TierPoint Tiger Corporation Trane Tri-State Wholesale Flooring, Inc. TSP, Inc. U.S. Bank University of Sioux Falls Van Buskirk Companies Vance Thompson Vision Vantis Commercial Real Estate Variety Foods, LLC Vern Eide Motorcars Viamedia-Sioux Falls Virtuoso Technologies Inc. VVI Waddell & Reed, Inc.-Steve Ciafalo Walter Ree Masonry Construction Inc Washington Pavilion Wayne & Mary’s Nutrition Center Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC Wells Fargo Bank West Plains Engineering, Inc. Wheelco Brake & Supply, Inc. Williams Insurance Agency, Inc Williamson Management Group, Inc. Wilsey Co./Pella Products Carolyn Winchell Wireless World Wollman Insurance Group Woltman Group Woods, Fuller, Shultz & Smith P.C. Worthington Tractor Parts, Inc. WR Hospitality X Freight/X-Linx, Inc./X-Trux, Inc. Xcel Energy

FACES & PLACES

Faces & Places

LYNDA BILLARS

The Lynda B. Advantage/ Team Billars & Associates KW

DAVID JOHNSON DAKOTACARE

LARRY AYRES Ayres Group

DAREN ANDERSON Big D Technology Solutions, Inc.

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

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

BERNIE DEWALD

McKinneyOlson Insurance

JULIE NELSON

American Bank & Trust

CATHY CRISP

COREY WEIDE

The Global Voice, Inc.

Morgan Stanley Wealth Management

JACK DYVIG

SANDY CASE

Sioux Falls Morning Optimists Club

U.S. Postal Service

Recognition of Chamber Volunteers The Ambassador Team of the Month for May was Team Billars: Lynda Billars, The Lynda B Advantage/Team Billars & Associates KW; Larry Ayres, Ayres Group; and Bernie DeWald, McKinneyOlson Insurance. The Ribbon Cutting Attendance Winner was Cathy Crisp, The Global Voice, Inc. The Top Sales Award went to Corey Weide, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management.

David Johnson, DAKOTACARE, was awarded Diplomat of the Month honors for May. Second place honors and the Reinvestment Award went to Daren Anderson,

Big D Technology Solutions, Inc. Julie Nelson, American Bank & Trust and Jack Dyvig, Sioux Falls Morning Optimists Club, tied for third place honors. The ribbon cutting attendance award went to Sandy Case, U.S. Postal Service.

The Diplomat Team of the Month for May was: Captain Daren Anderson, Big D Technology Solutions, Inc.; Duane Noerenberg, Anderson Group CPA; Angie Wahl, All-Star Travel; Dustin Brouwer, Sioux Falls Seminary; and Cindi Johnson, Spectrum Marketing Services.

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

16 Chamber News | JULY 2016

FACES & PLACES

New Faces & Promotions Roger Nolan joined Insight Marketing Design as an Account Executive and brings 20 years of sales and client service experience.

Nolan has experience in the financial services, healthcare, retail and manufacturing fields and brings with him a wealth of market knowledge.

Meranda Van Ningen is a Client Service Specialist. Before joining Insight Marketing Design, Van Ningen trained in media outlets, worked in the corporate sector in Minneapolis and also owned her own business.

Kristi Dorn joined Media One as Production Director and Anna Haecherl is Head Copywriter. Dorn is a graduate of the

University of Minnesota. She has extensive agency experience managing corporate web design projects for regional and national clients.

She also has marketing project management experience with Target Corporation and Sanford Health. Haecherl is a graduate of Southwest Minnesota State University and is an award-winning newspaper journalist from Marshall, Minn. Haecherl also has experience in technical writing and business startups.

Natalie Nagle is the new Executive Director of Edgewood Prairie Crossings Assisted Living Community in Sioux Falls. Nagle is the third graduate of the Edgewood Senior

Living Executive Director in Training Program.

A native of Pierre, Nagle is a graduate of the University of Mary, Bismarck, where she earned her master’s degree in business administration with a healthcare emphasis and her bachelor’s of science degree in biology and a minor in chemistry.

Keith Neuharth, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, was elected to the Board of Directors of RSArchitects as First Vice President and Treasurer. Neuharth has 30 years of experience and has been with RSArchitects for 18 years.

Honors & Awards The National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) awarded a Best of NAMA award to Insight Marketing Design for their design and creation of a corporate identity package for a client.

The Society for New Communications Research of The Conference Board (SNCR) recognized Gage Brothers Concrete with a 2016 Excellence in New Communications Award. The prestigious awards program honors organizations for their exemplary use of digital, mobile and social media. Gage Brothers received top honors in the Visual Storytelling Category for the Corporate Division. Gage Brothers was recognized for a broad-based social media and public relations campaign that spotlights both its employees and products.

Gage Brothers was recognized as a Platinum-Level Fit-Friendly Worksite by the American Heart Association for helping its employees eat better and move more. This is the fourth straight year that Gage Brothers has been recognized by the AHA as a fit-friendly worksite. The company attained gold-level status from 2013-15. Through the Fit Friendly Worksite program, AHA recognizes employers who go above and beyond when it comes to

their employees’ health. It rewards organizations for their progressive leadership and concern for their staff.

Pete Hegg, Hegg Companies, Inc. and his wife, Marilyn, were the recipients of the Community Partner of the Year award from LifeSource, a non-profit organization dedicated to saving lives through organ, eye and tissue donation in the upper Midwest. The Heggs have hosted an annual Hunt for Hope, a group hunt of LifeSource employees and donors at their Circle H Ranch. The hunt is designed to raise awareness and education for organ donation in South Dakota, as well as build relationships for those involved with the cause.

Income generated by LifeSource as a result of the donated hunts has been in excess of $70,000.

Four Hegg Hospitality hotel properties have received the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence: the Hilton Garden Inn-Downtown and the Hilton Garden Inn-South in Sioux Falls, the Holiday Inn Express & SuitesOmaha West in Omaha and the Hyatt Place in Lincoln. The award accounts for the quality, quantity and recency of reviews submitted by travelers on TripAdvisor over a 12-month

period. To qualify, a business must maintain an overall TripAdvisor bubble rating of at least four out of five, have a minimum number of reviews and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months.

Dawn Knutson was named South Dakota’s top Small Group agent by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield as part of the company’s annual Promise Awards. The Promise Awards recognize Wellmark agents and agencies for their success during the past year as well as their dedication to serving the needs of Wellmark members. Knutson is an agent at Midwest Employee Benefits. Knutson has been a trusted insurance professional for 20 years. She began her career as an agency associate and purchased the agency in 2013.

High Point Networks was named to The Channel Company’s 2016 CRN Solution Provider 500. The SP500 list is CRN’s annual ranking of the largest technology integrators, solution providers and IT consultants in North America by revenue. High Point Networks placed No. 385 in the annual ranking, moving up 32 places from last year’s list.

Leadership Stephanie Engebretson, American Bank & Trust, and Dave Long, Sioux Steel, joined the Board of Directors of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire.

Michael J. Frankman, DDS, Falls Dental Centre, was elected Vice President of the South Dakota Dental Association during the association’s annual session. Frankman served

four years on the SDDA Board of Trustees and is a Past President of the Southeastern District Dental Society.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 17

FACES & PLACES

Be Seen

1 3 1-9 The annual June Mixer and Business Fair featured

2 Good Deeds

The American Red Cross recognized SERVPRO for participation in its Disaster Responder Program1. As a Disaster Responder Program1 member, SERVPRO pledges a donation to the Red Cross in advance of disasters, allowing the organization to respond quickly and effectively to nearly 66,000 disasters annually, most of which are home fires. SERVPRO is entering their third year of partnership with the Red Cross; their donations to the organization to date exceed $1 million.

In an effort to reach more children throughout the summer, Feeding South Dakota’s BackPack Program is partnering with Sioux Falls Fire Rescue. Three fire stations will serve as distribution sites where families can go to pick up their weekend food package. The Summer BackPack Program is being made possible by Celebrate Community Church’s support. BackPacks are available at Fire Station 3 (2820 S. Minnesota Ave.), Fire Station 7 (1100 E. Benson Rd.), and Fire Station 8 (1000 N. Kiwanis Ave.). Families can pick up their bags at these stations on Fridays between 9 a.m.-7 p.m. During the school year, more 18 Chamber News | JULY 2016

Chamber members displaying their goods and services.

More than 35 vendors had items on display and more than 300 Chamber members attended. The Mixer was sponsored by the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center and held at the Sioux Falls Convention Center.

than 30 schools in the Sioux Falls School District receive BackPacks on a weekly basis.

When classrooms empty for the summer, access to school meals is limited. The partnership with Sioux Falls Fire Rescue gives families another resource.

The South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF) awarded South Dakota Fund grants to several organizations. The South Dakota Fund helps to meet the diverse and vital needs of people across the state through grants to nonprofits in the areas of culture, economic development, education, health and human services. Volunteers of America, Dakotas received a $10,000 grant for its Veterans Outreach Center. A $5,000 grant will help the “JazzFest 25 Guitar Art Project” travel to 10 South Dakota communities throughout the year for public display with the Sioux Falls Jazz & Blues Society. A $2,000 grant will assist the New Directions Down Syndrome Association with promotional materials for its largest annual fundraising event, the Buddy Walk.

Mentorship

Twenty Young Professionals Network (YPN) members were selected through an application process to participate in the first year-long, peer-to-peer YPN Mentoring Program, which starts this summer. They are paired in four groups of five and each group has a mentor who is also a YPN member. First group: Blake Willman, The First National Bank in Sioux Falls; Betzi Johnson, EmBe; Bill DeNet, Tessier’s Mechanical Contractors; and Nick Rickert, The First National Bank in Sioux Falls; group two: Jennifer Ruzsa, Le-Vel; Jon Thie, Minnehaha Country Club; Jamie Lennon, Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota; Robert Swaney, EmBe; and Carry Thomas, Girl Scouts-Dakota Horizons; third group: Stacey Bautista, Piper Custom Framing & Fine Art Gallery; Sarah Gross, Meritus Real Estate Group; Kristine Bakley, HDR Engineering; Cory Weeden, First Dakota Title; and Lizzy Cranny, Lawrence & Schiller; and the fourth group: Michelle Klobassa, TSP, Inc.; Laura Benson, Filly Flair; Amanda Odegaard, Junior Achievement; Erica Anderson, MetaBank; and Nicholas MacDonald, Merrill Lynch.

FACES & PLACES

4 7 5 8

6 9 chambernews.com | Chamber News 19

FACES & PLACES

Be Seen

10

11 At a Victory Celebration for investors, Forward Sioux Falls 2021 Co-chairs announced that the goal of $15.5 million had been reached, with more than $15.528 million raised to date. 10 The event featured networking and hors d’ouevres prior to the announcement. 11 Chamber President/CEO Evan Nolte and Development Foundation President Slater Barr also took part in the program. 12 Prior to announcing the dollar figure raised to investors, co-chairs Mark Shlanta, SDN Communications and Dave Rozenboom, First PREMIER Bank, shared the total with members of the media.

20 Chamber News | JULY 2016

12

FACES & PLACES

13

15 14 13 Chamber Chair-Elect Dr. Dave Kapaska, Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, shared information about his career path with Young Professionals Network (YPN) members at an event called A Seat at the Table. 14 The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) hosted a “Surprise & Delight” event at local breweries, offering free t-shirts and $2 local taps to attendees who greeted staff members using the hashtag: #wearehereSF. 15, 16 YPN members toured the Zeal Center for Entrepreneurship, which was started through Forward Sioux Falls.

16 chambernews.com | Chamber News 21

FACES & PLACES

Be Seen

17

18

19

17 Midco Chief Marketing Officer Trish McCann shared information with YPN members at an A Seat at the Table event, held at Midco. 18 Bill Peterson, Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota, spoke at a rally for Campus on East Bank volunteers held at the midway point of the organization’s Chamberapproved Community Appeals campaign. 19 Sarah Kurtenbach, The KB Group, offered social media strategies in a YPN Focus Workshop. 20 The Chamber’s Business Leadership Council toured Weisser Distributing in Tea.

20 22 Chamber News | JULY 2016

FACES & PLACES

21, 22 Approximately 50 people attended the New Member Mixer in July. These mixers are held a few times throughout the year and are specifically for new members or new employees of Chamber members. Attendees can learn more about the Chamber, visit with Ambassadors, Diplomats, Board members and staff and share information about their own business, too.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 23

COVER STORY

AMBASSADOR COMMITTEE ANNIVERSARY & REUNION Pictured on these pages and the following are members of the Chamber’s Ambassador Committee over the past 50 years. From ribbon cuttings to matching jackets and ties to social events, this group has had a major impact on the success and growth of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce.

Photos from Chamber archives and Dick Brown.

24 Chamber News | JULY 2016

Ambassadors celebrate 50 years

BY AMY SMOLIK

Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

Good ideas are worth tweaking — and the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce’s implementation of another community’s idea of a “PR” committee evolved into the Ambassador Committee, which is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year.

According to former Membership Services Director Betty Ordal, the Ambassadors started when someone who did business in Sioux Falls and Sioux City suggested that Sioux Falls should use an idea from the neighbors from the south and form a group to be the public relations effort for the Chamber and the city. Ordal worked at the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce for 48 years, retiring in 2014. When she started at the Chamber, the Ambassador Committee was in its early stages.

“They initially were the group who welcomed new business owners to Sioux Falls and VIP visitors to the city, presenting them with the key to the city,” Ordal said.

In a few years, the Chamber Board of Directors realized they needed an organized sales effort to grow the membership, so they turned to the Ambassadors for this responsibility. The next item added was to attend ribbon cuttings. Both of these charges continue today.

“The Ambassador Committee has been the force that explains the benefits of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce to businesses, individuals and organizations,” Ordal said. “They do this on a volunteer basis and have been successful in continually adding new members to the Chamber.”

chambernews.com | Chamber News 25

COVER STORY

In the early days they wore uniforms, selected by a committee within the Ambassador Committee. Uniforms were worn up until the mid-2000s. A number of styles were implemented over the years, from different colored jackets, to matching ties to scarves for women. Ordal recalled the group wearing glittery dinner jackets in the early days.

Today Ambassadors sell the benefits of Chamber membership to businesses across the region. The structure has changed over the years, but they continue to work in teams, currently in groups of three. The teams receive points and other incentives for selling memberships, retaining memberships and attending ribbon cutting ceremonies. Twice a year, membership drives are held as a friendly competition. Each Ambassador Team is allowed to recruit additional volunteers, adding to the cadre of Chamber volunteers out in the community during the drive time, usually two to three weeks.

26 Chamber News | JULY 2016

“The Ambassadors are a very close-knit group of people who have sales and marketing experience,” Ordal said.

“Competition is keen within the group. I think we have probably averaged about 30 committee members over the years. They have always worked in teams for competition in sales campaigns and annual goals. Annual sales goals are set based on the budget needs of the Chamber’s program of work, economic outlook and attainability.”

Some of Ordal’s favorite memories in working with the Ambassadors were setting sales goals at the beginning of a themed sales campaign and reaching or beating the goal at the wrap-up. The volunteers who served on the committee over the years have gone on to serve in other leadership roles in the community and within the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, with many serving on the Board of Directors or as Chair of the Board.

When more and more women became leaders in the business community, they also became part of the Ambassador Committee. Because of the intense time commitment to serve, the committee membership has always voted on new committee members. The process was pretty structured, recalled former Ambassador Gary Junck, CorTrust Bank.

“I had recently returned to Sioux Falls from Rapid City.

Earlier I was active in the Sioux Falls Jaycees where relationships were bonded that where instrumental in my being considered as an Ambassador,” Junck said. “In those days it wasn’t instinctive that one would be elected on the first vote, or at all. Fortunately I was elected.”

Junck said after 20 years on the committee he resigned, “exhausted.” The benefits he gained, however, were lasting.

“I think incoming Ambassadors may believe a priority benefit will be business contacts. While that is true, as most of us can identify business successes, I believe personal development, visibility and relationships that continue are the rewards that keep on giving,” he said. “The challenge — the allocation of time, resources, goal setting and success, functioning as a unit/team are incredible career development

skills one can achieve professionally and perhaps more importantly, individually. Looking out into the community, current and past Ambassadors continued to contribute and excel.”

Junck is one of many Ambassadors and Chamber volunteers who set an example for others, including his son, Adam Cooper with Howalt+McDowell Insurance, A Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC company. Cooper became an Ambassador in 2014 and still serves on the committee.

“My father really encouraged me to join the Ambassadors as he experienced not only professional success, but lifelong friendships as well,” Cooper said. “I wanted to be very involved in the community and this was the perfect steppingstone to getting that accomplished.”

The personal and professional connections are the biggest value he’s received, Cooper said. The friendships he’s made with his fellow committee members and mentorship have helped him grow in his professional career.

“I would encourage everyone to volunteer in some capacity with the Chamber as we can really attribute our great

chambernews.com | Chamber News 27

COVER STORY

community to the work the Chamber has been doing,” Cooper said. “I would strongly encourage someone looking to ambassadorship as their means of volunteering — it starts with saying ‘yes’ when asked to be an associate ambassador during one of our annual drives.”

Dick Brown, South Dakota Parks & Wildlife Foundation, served on the committee for more than a decade. Brown served as chair of the Ambassador Committee as well as the Chamber’s Board of Directors. The Ambassadors’ role of high-profile community outreach, promotion of the Chamber’s mission and most importantly securing new and enhancing existing membership in the Chamber was and continues to be most inviting, he said.

“The opportunity to be part of an energetic, pro-active community leadership team which individually and

28 Chamber News | JULY 2016

collectively had a strong commitment to the future of the quality of life and quality of place we live, Sioux Falls, was perfect for me,” Brown said.

Personally, the involvement with so many men and women who care about the quality of life, building friendships for life, sharing a commitment to serve the larger community in such a positive way was most fulfilling for him.

Professionally, Brown was able to meet and become involved with community leadership-social, economic/business, political and family — an invaluable experience that enabled him to feel he made a real difference in the lives of all who lived in, around or visited Sioux Falls.

The camaraderie of those who served on the committee over the years was built doing the work of the Chamber, as well as through social and team-building activities. Brown

had fond memories of his service: the opportunity to serve as Chief Ambassador, the ribbon cuttings, great team building partners, the membership drives and all those wonderful character-building social functions including of course the Leech Lake fishing trips, hunting and golf outings were so memorable and uplifting. There are so many stories, he said, but one stands out: a major pheasant hunting trip to the White Lake/Chamberlain area.

“We entered the big cornfield and were to meet our blockers at the end of the field and then have lunch. When we arrived at the end of the field with pheasants in hand, Ambassador Al Cooper (owner of a couple of Perkins) had changed from his hunting attire and greeted us in a full tuxedo, table with white linen and a high-class meal with wine. This is one of many great times of Ambassador

camaraderie. While all Chamber Committees are important and make a difference, in my experience none has the excitement, energy and prideful recognition as being called an Ambassador.”

Many more stories will be shared when the Ambassadors gather for the 50th Reunion and Anniversary Party on Friday, July 15. For more information about becoming an Ambassador or other Chamber volunteer opportunities, or to RSVP to the reunion, contact Membership Sales & Retention Manager Amy Farr at (605) 373-2013 or afarr@siouxfalls.com.

SIOUX FALLS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PAST CHIEF AMBASSADORS/COMMITTEE CHAIRS 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970-71 1971-72 1972-73 1973-74 1974-75 1975-76 1976-77 1977-78 1978-79 1979-80 1980-81 1981-82 1982-83 1983-84 1984-85 1985-86 1986-87 1987-88 1988-89 1989-90 1990-91 1991-92 1992-93

Chris Christopulos Chris Christopulos Chris Christopulos Chris Christopulos Lynn Albers Paul Willadsen Paul Willadsen Izzy Pitts Bernie DeWald Steve Olson Russ Ediger Kon Peters Don Isaacson Art deWit Joe Henkin Don Dunham, Jr. Rod Carlson Rod Carlson Dick Brown Bob Wiedeman Jim Owen Jim Schmidt Tom Van Wyhe Mike Breidenbach John Heisler Mark Wahlstrom Cathy Novak

1993-94 1994-95 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-2000 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16

Gary Junck Bill Kullander/Dick Beck Dick Beck Dave Stadheim Dale Thorpe Dave Anderson Jack Hopkins William J. Peters Dean Buckneberg Lyle Dabbert Kerry Hammel Lynda Billars Mark McClung Tom Shields Dean Karsky Eric Anderson Ritch Noble Rex Pruitt Mike Hauck Rick Rysavy Liz Lloyd Corey Weide Amy O’Connor Hoback

LOOKING AHEAD: 2016-17 2017-18

Nathan Stallinga Mark Luke

Pictured are a few of the many Chief Ambassadors from over the years. Chris Christopulos (top) was the first Chief Ambassador and served from 1966-69. Art deWit (middle) was Chief Ambassador in 1979-80. Amy O’Connor Hoback (bottom) is the current Chair of the Ambassador Committee. chambernews.com | Chamber News 29

BUSINESS ADVOCACY

Chamber plans Washington, D.C. Fly-in The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce is planning a Washington, D.C. advocacy fly-in with the Rapid City Area Chamber of Commerce Sept. 6-9. This joint fly-in is designed to allow representatives from both organizations to work together on issues of common concern and to branch-off as individual chambers on issues unique to each. Each chamber’s participant group will include 12-15 individuals.

The Rapid City Chamber has a history of visiting Washington in the early fall of even-numbered years. When the Sioux Falls Chamber approached them about collaborating, they eagerly agreed that a partnership would strengthen the visit. By working together on the fly-in, organizers believe that this will strengthen the South Dakota message, cover issues important to the two largest communities in the state, make the best use of resources and time, and strengthen the relationship between both communities and chambers.

While a lot of planning and details are yet to be determined, the basic agenda will include the following: On Sept. 6, participants will travel to D.C. and gather for an opening dinner and briefing.

Sept. 7 will feature a full-day of agency and congressional meetings.

Sept. 8 will include at least a half-day of agency and congressional meetings plus some time for individual touring. On Sept. 9, participants can do individual touring and will travel home.

30 Chamber News | JULY 2016

Some of the highlights participants can expect will include meetings with South Dakota’s congressional delegation, an in-depth tour of the Capitol, a U.S. Chamber of Commerce briefing, a “State’s Night” reception and dinner (Sept. 7) and an agenda based on federal issues important to the Sioux Falls area and South Dakota.

“We believe there are a number of issues important to consider for the agenda,” said Mark Lee, Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce Public Affairs & Communications Director and Lobbyist.

Planning has revolved around sessions on the F-35 basing decision, Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization and air service issues, healthcare, veterans’ affairs, agriculture, banking and finance, immigration and more.

“We’ll work to make the agenda strategically meaningful, but without overloading it for participants,” Lee said.

Attendees will be required to pay their own way for the trip. If you are interested in joining the fly-in, contact Teresa Schreier at tschreier@siouxfalls.com or (605) 373-2050 to get more details on costs and to be added to the information list to stay up to date as the tour comes together.

HEADLINES

Members of the Forward Sioux Falls 2021 campaign leadership teams helped announce the money raised by June 7 at a Victory Celebration for investors.

Forward Sioux Falls 2021 campaign exceeds $15.5 million goal Forward Sioux Falls 2021 Campaign Co-chairs Mayor Mike Huether, Dave Rozenboom, First PREMIER Bank, and Mark Shlanta, SDN Communications shared that to date $15.528 million has been raised for the five-year program, exceeding the $15.5 million goal. Since 1987 when Forward Sioux Falls started, more than $52 million has been raised over seven programs.

“Forward Sioux Falls embodies the notion that a rising tide lifts all boats,” said Campaign Co-chair Dave Rozenboom. “We’ve seen the benefits of our collaboration and how it has improved our region’s economy and quality of life.”

Forward Sioux Falls investors represent 80 percent private investments with 20 percent public investments. The seventh campaign kicked off in November 2015 with a goal of raising $15.5 million over the next five years to deliver on time-tested core programs as well as several new initiatives that address today’s challenges and opportunities. More than 75 volunteers assisted in the campaign.

Forward Sioux Falls 2021 initiatives and program elements continue to provide opportunities to positively impact people, prosperity and place.

“We will continue to deliver on our core programs that have proven successful and complement them with several new and fresh initiatives,” said Co-chair Mark Shlanta.

Key components in the 2021 plan include: Workforce Attraction, Retention & Development; Foundation Park; USD Discovery District; Entrepreneurship & Innovation; Business Advocacy & Quality of Place Enhancement; Business Recruitment, Retention & Expansion; and Air Service & International Trade.

Other key components of the 2021 program include: • A Strategic Workforce Action Agenda was developed in 2015 after a six-month study. A Vice President of Workforce Development will oversee this initiative and the position will be filled late summer/early fall.

• Foundation Park is the state’s first megasite. The 820-acre site is located at the northwest corner of I-90 and I-29. A groundbreaking was held in April and work continues on readying the site. This project was made possible due to partnerships between the State, City and business community through Forward Sioux Falls.

• The USD Discovery District will create an innovation community near the University Center. It will consist of 26 buildings with mixed use development. The District will capitalize on the region’s significant and growing medical and biotech capacity. It was made possible due to partnerships between the State, University of South Dakota and Forward Sioux Falls.

“Thanks to our investors, our region has been dreaming big and had the financial support to realize those dreams. We are excited to carry on the momentum,” said Co-chair Mayor Mike Huether.

Forward Sioux Falls is the successful joint venture economic development partnership between the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce and the Sioux Falls Development Foundation. A Joint Venture Management Committee, made up of the leadership from the Chamber and the Development Foundation, oversees the program. For more information, visit forwardsiouxfalls.com.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 31

HEADLINES

Organizations encouraged to apply for Community Appeals scheduling in 2018-19

BY MIKE LYNCH

Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce’s Community Appeals scheduling process is considered an integral component contributing to a successful capital campaign. Since the committee was formed in 1953, its purpose has remained the same: to qualify and provide orderly scheduling for capital fund drives.

Community Appeals 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. Organizations seek to capitalize on the strong reputation of the Chamber to maximize their fundraising activities. Eligible organizations include those with a social (non-profit) or educational emphasis (accredited, post-secondary).

Applications are now being accepted until Aug. 1, 2016 for the campaign cycles of Nov. 1, 2018 through March 31, 2019 and April 1, 2019 through July 31, 2019, respectively. The online application can be found at siouxfallschamber.com under the Program tab.

Required data to complete the application include identification of the governing board, description of campaign purpose and community benefit, percentage breakdown of anticipated areas of solicitation, historical information, feasibility study summary and audited financials, to name a few.

If an organization meets the application criteria, its representatives will be given an opportunity to present before the full Community Appeals Committee to further explain the fund drive and financial plan. By February 2017, the committee will meet to discuss the merit of each applicant and ultimately vote to consider scheduling a campaign(s) for the two open slots.

32 Chamber News | JULY 2016

COMMUNITY APPEALS APPLICATIONS Deadline: Aug. 1, 2016 Campaign options: Nov. 1, 2018-March 31, 2019 and April 1, 2019-July 31, 2019 For an application and more information, visit siouxfallschamber.com

Once a campaign is scheduled, the Chamber assists the organization and its capital campaign in several ways including serving as a liaison to keep Chamber members informed, providing a list of Chamber members, organizing a press conference to kick-off the campaign, writing a feature story in Chamber News at the beginning and end of the campaign and promoting the campaign in each issue of Chamber News.

LSS will conclude its “Campus on East Bank Campaign” at the end of July. This $5.4 million overall campaign ($1.25 million from the business community) is a fundraising effort to support the creation and development of a facility offering multiple LSS services including Center for New Americans, Center for Financial Resources, Counseling Services, Mentoring Services, Fatherhood & Re-entry Services and possibly LSS administration. Friends of Levitt Shell Sioux Falls will begin its $1.06 million Community Appeals campaign to create an outdoor concert venue on Nov. 1, 2016.

If your organization meets the criteria for Community Appeals scheduling consideration, consider completing an application and see more information at siouxfallschamber.com.

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.

For more information on the Community Appeals Committee, call Mike Lynch at (605) 373-2006.

CURRENT CAMPAIGN

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

LUTHERAN SOCIAL SERVICES APRIL 1-JULY 31, 2016 $1.25 MILLION

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

Create and develop the “Campus on East Bank,” offering multiple LSS services in the heart of Sioux Falls

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

LEVITT AT THE FALLS NOV. 1, 2016-MARCH 31, 2017 $1.06 MILLION Create an outdoor concert venue in Sioux Falls, partnering with non-profit Levitt Pavilions

GREAT PLAINS ZOO & DELBRIDGE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY APRIL 1-JULY 31, 2018 $1.41 MILLION Create a new “Big Cats of Africa” exhibit

chambernews.com | Chamber News 33

HEADLINES

Applications for Leadership Sioux Falls 31 available this month Applications for the Chamber’s 31st Leadership Sioux Falls program will be available this month. The deadline is Aug. 19. Since 1986, nearly 900 people have graduated and gone on to serve the community and region in a number of ways.

Leadership Sioux Falls has these cornerstone values: to develop long-lasting relationships and stimulate communications with other leaders; to discover the inner workings of your community and challenges it faces; to motivate and encourage participants to assume leadership roles in community affairs; to assist those already in leadership roles to increase their access to additional positions of community leadership in an informed and responsible manner; and to define your individual role and responsibility as a leader within the community.

In general, the following topics are covered: arts and culture and the visitor industry; economic development; education; healthcare; history; human/social services and non-profit service; leadership styles and communication; legislative and government; and quality of life.

Approximately 30 applicants are chosen by the Leadership Sioux Falls Selection Committee to participate each year. The quality of the participants is the primary strength of the program. They represent the public and private sectors and civic and community organizations in the Sioux Falls area. They are most apt to utilize their leadership for the long-term benefit of the community. Attention is given to ensure diversity among class participants in both their life experiences and areas of employment.

Tuition is $475 and is non-refundable. Participants who are selected but fail to meet the time commitment will be dropped from the program and will not receive a tuition refund.

LSF applications will be available online in mid-July at siouxfallschamber.com under the Programs tab. Applications are due to the Chamber office by 5 p.m. on Aug. 19. Contact Lauren Fosheim for more information about the program: (605) 373-2009 or lfoshheim@siouxfalls.com.

34 Chamber News | JULY 2016

HOW TO APPLY Applications will be available mid-July at siouxfallschamber.comunder the Programs tab.

The deadline is 5 p.m. Aug. 19, 2016.

Contact Lauren Fosheim for more information: (605) 373-2009 or lfosheim@siouxfalls.com

Leadership Sioux Falls applicants must: • Have participated in past community and professional activities • Be a current resident or employed in the Sioux Falls metro area • Be over the age of 25 • Be able to attend all required sessions • Commit to serving and strengthening the community upon completion of the program Previous applicants who were not selected are strongly encouraged to apply for the program again.

BUSINESS NEWS

Advertising opportunities available in 2016-17 Sioux Falls Community Guide Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce members have an opportunity to promote their businesses to individuals interested in learning more about living and working in Sioux Falls and to fellow Chamber members in the annual Sioux Falls Community Guide.

The guides will initially be distributed at Operation Thank You, a one-day event where volunteers visit Chamber members to share information about the Chamber and thank them for their membership investment; this year it will be held Sept. 29. The publication is distributed year-round and can also be found as a digital flipbook at siouxfalls.com.

The Chamber contracts with Argus Leader Media to produce the Sioux Falls Community Guide. Advertising is open to

all Chamber members, and is only available to Chamber members, with sales closing in early September.

The Sioux Falls Community Guide includes information on all facets of life in Sioux Falls. This is the official publication mailed from the Chamber office to people requesting relocation information about Sioux Falls. It’s also a great recruiting tool for employers to use when seeking new employees.

If you have questions about the Sioux Falls Community Guide, contact Amy Smolik at the Chamber at (605) 373-2054 or asmolik@siouxfalls.com. For more information about advertising, contact your Argus Leader Media sales executive or call (605) 977-3943.

Area companies join forces in two different agreements EARTHBEND/SDN Two South Dakota-based companies that provide information technology systems and solutions have reached a strategic agreement in which EarthBend has acquired SDN’s phone/data equipment division and cloud contact center platform.

EarthBend offered jobs to 22 SDN employees who support the above business units. They will join EarthBend’s growing team of more than 70 information technology experts serving the upper Midwest region. SDN will maintain 160 employees on its core broadband, managed and cybersecurity services serving businesses in South Dakota and surrounding states.

EarthBend has been helping businesses solve their technology challenges since 1982. The company provides a full suite of technology solutions in combination with a robust portfolio of professional and managed services offerings.

Helping keep hackers out of business data has become a major focus for SDN. In recent months it has lead the region in

cyber protection events for businesses. One

recent event attracted 165 attendees from as far away as Ohio. Last year it successfully developed and launched the region’s only Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Protection product.

LAWRENCE & SCHILLER TELESERVICES/MIDCO CALL CENTER SERVICES Two long-standing Sioux Falls customer service centers have joined forces to achieve new standards in the call center industry.

Lawrence & Schiller TeleServices acquired Midco Call Center Services for continued and expanded operation. The company is now known as Five Star Call Centers. Five Star Call Centers offers more than 500 agents in four locations in Fargo, North Sioux City and two facilities in Sioux Falls.

The companies have added more than 100 employees in the last year and serve more than 150 clients nationwide. Five Star specializes in retail, financial services, incident reporting, product support and professional services.

Both companies are offspring of their wellknown parents, Midco (the cable, broadband and advertising company) and Lawrence

& Schiller (the advertising agency) but are independently owned and operated.

Lawrence & Schiller TeleServices was founded by Craig Lawrence and Paul Schiller who will remain active in the business while assigning leadership responsibilities to their partners, Troy Holt, Chief Operating Officer, Joel Sylvester, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, and Ray Peterson, Chief Customer Officer. Patti Hawkey, of Midco Call Center Services, will join the executive management team as Vice President of Customer Success.

The Midco parent company also owns and operates Midcontinent Communications, a sister company to Midco Call Center Services. Midcontinent Communications has its own independent call centers that are staffed 100 percent with employees of the cable company. It will continue to operate its own customer service department to handle all customer calls, with employees and locations in Sioux Falls, Aberdeen and Fargo.

Midco Call Center Services is a separate company that provides sales and support to companies nationwide.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 35

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Hospitality is key to Sioux Falls’ success The hospitality industry often talks about the importance of customer service.

We all know that taking care of our customers is a top priority for any successful business.

TERI SCHMIDT

Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau

... face-to-face communication extends the warm hospitality Sioux Falls is known for!

The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) believes customer service to be so important that it is part of every sales presentation and commitment to each group, large or small. As the sales team works to convince decision-makers of all the exciting reasons they should choose Sioux Falls as the city to host their group, we also sell them on the services the bureau offers. We want decision-makers to know that once they decide to meet in Sioux Falls the CVB will continue to work with them through the end of their event. Without a doubt, it is most important in creating the relationship of trust with the event planners.

CVB Services Manager Jay Kaltenbach contacts planners once they have booked Sioux Falls as their host city. He reviews all services we offer and commits to as many as possible in order to make the group’s stay run smoother and be more enjoyable for all participating.

Some of the services offered by the CVB are: assistance in gathering hotel and facility information; registration assistance on site at actual event; welcome table; Sioux Falls Visitor Guide; Sioux Falls Visitor Map; tour guides; itinerary planning; media coverage assistance; name tags; and act as resource for community information.

Registration tables are the most popular CVB service, and potentially the most important service the CVB provides, because they allow us to have our registration assistants on site to greet and assist any of the guests. From providing information to selling tickets to typing name badges, the CVB’s registration assistants do a wonderful job representing Sioux Falls. This face-to-face communication extends the warm hospitality Sioux Falls is known for!

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. 41.

36 Chamber News | JULY 2016

CHAMBER PARTNER

Free Sioux Falls Airshow to showcase “Power on the Prairie” The Sioux Falls Airshow, Inc. has been a part of our community since 1983. It is indeed a show of “Power on the Prairie” that everyone looks forward to. After four long years of waiting, Sioux Falls will once again look to the skies for two full days of amazing aerial performances July 23-24. The South Dakota Air National Guard celebrates their 70th anniversary by hosting the Sioux Falls Airshow.

CHUCK NELSON Nelson & Nelson CPAs

We encourage families to come out to the airbase this year to experience the entire event.

Fans can see the planes, get autographs from the pilots and learn about aviation history.

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels are the featured act of this year’s Airshow. The mission of the Blue Angels is to showcase the pride and professionalism of the Navy and Marine Corps by inspiring a culture of excellence and service to country through flight demonstrations and community outreach. In 2016, the Blue Angels also celebrate their 70th anniversary. Since 1946, they have amazed more than 484 million fans with their performances.

Many other performers are lined up to stun the crowds at the 2016 Sioux Falls Airshow, including: U.S. Marine Corp Harrier Demo, U.S. Air Force F-16 Demo, U.S. Army Special Operational Parachute Team-The Black Daggers, Jack Link’s Screamin’ Sasquatch Bi-Plane (with a jet engine), Kent Pietsch and the Jelly Belly Plane, World War II Aircraft B-25 and B-17 and The Vanguard Squadron. The Vanguard Squadron flies a dazzling four-ship formation, acrobatic airshow powered by ethanol.

There will be many activities to enjoy on the ground, as well. Countless military aircraft will be on display, a children’s area will have 16 inflatables, the U.S. Navy Rock Band will be playing, a F-35 flight simulator and a NASCAR simulator will be available, a Sony PlayStation exhibit and so much more! Not to mention, the Star Wars 501st Legion will be there, so fans can meet and take pictures with Darth Vader and other Star Wars characters.

This year, there will be many concession areas and a beer garden, too. There will also be drawings every hour for prizes.

Thanks to many sponsors, the Sioux Falls Airshow is free! The gates open at 8:30 a.m. with the show beginning at 11 a.m. We encourage families to come out to the airbase this year to experience the entire event. Fans can see the planes, get autographs from the pilots and learn about aviation history.

The Airshow has drawn nearly the population of Sioux Falls over the two days (about 150,000 people) in the past, so parking can be tough. Shuttle buses will be available from three locations: the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds, Southeast Tech and PREMIER Bankcard/ Esurance. The cost is $4 per person, round-trip — with ages 5 and under riding free.

Visitors should bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating, a camera for photos, and sun protection for the family — we suggest sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and umbrellas. Children and those with sensitive ears should also bring ear plugs or other ear protection. Ear plugs will be for sale on the grounds, as well. Staying hydrated is key to enjoying a hot July weekend.

Water and drinks will be for sale and free water will be available at water buffalos and misting tents.

No drones, knives or weapons will be allowed. Coolers, backpacks, large bags/purses or pets other than service animals are prohibited. More information can be found at siouxfallsairshow.com and follow us on Facebook.

Chuck Nelson is the Treasurer for the Sioux Falls Airshow, Inc.

38 Chamber News | JULY 2016

USING YOUR MEMBERSHIP

New overtime rules in effect this year; are you ready?

Unless you have been hiding under a rock, you have heard the news regarding the Department of Labor’s release of the final overtime rules set to take effect later this year.

For many business owners and human resource professionals, this has been on our radar for quite some time and we have been anxiously anticipating the much-awaited guidelines. In 2015, the U.S. Department of Labor announced the proposed rules, which would update the overtime rules by increasing the salary requirement to qualify for an exemption from the minimum wage and overtime pay protections of the Fair Labor Standards Act.

RACHELL HENNING, M.S., SHRM-CP, PHR Woods, Fuller, Shultz & Smith

Due to the short time period in which businesses have to get informed and make changes in order to comply, do not wait and hope this goes away.

Following the announcement of the proposed rules in 2015, the Department of Labor received over 270,000 comments during the extensive comment period. Various organizations and employers across the country, including the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Sioux Empire Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (SESHRM), submitted comments and lobbied their representatives in Congress regarding the implications of the proposed revisions. SESHRM’s Past-President Garrett Wilson and I met with South Dakota’s Congressional delegation to discuss the impact the proposed rule would have on businesses in our community.

WHAT DID CHANGE? While the final rule did not increase the salary threshold to the originally proposed $50,440 per year, the implications are just as big. Effective Dec. 1, 2016, the salary level required to qualify for the exemption from overtime will be set at $913 per week or $47,476 (compared to $455 per week previously). The total annual compensation for the highly compensated employee exemption was also increased to $134,004. The final rule also permits employers to count nondiscretionary bonuses, incentives and commissions toward up to 10 percent of the required salary level, so long as those amounts are paid on a quarterly basis.

Even though the final rule did not change any of the job duty requirements to qualify for the exemption, it has still created a significant administrative burden for organizations both small and large. The Department of Labor estimated employers will spend $592.7 million to comply with the new rule. The U.S. Department of Labor estimated this change will affect approximately 9,000 workers in South Dakota.

WHAT DO I DO NOW? Due to the short time period in which businesses have to get informed and make changes in order to comply, do not wait and hope this goes away. Business owners and human resource professionals should start identifying those individuals and positions affected by the change and determining whom to reclassify as non-exempt. This will not only involve reviewing the positions in your company, but also updating job descriptions and communicating with affected employees.

WHO CAN HELP? At SESHRM’s September chapter meeting, Brian Mundahl from the U.S. Department of Labor will be presenting on the latest from the Department of Labor. To register, go to seshrm.org.

If your organization is unclear as to your obligations or where to start, contact a knowledgeable employment law attorney experienced in Fair Labor Standards Act compliance for assistance. Engaging counsel to aid you in the process will help you be prepared on Dec. 1.

Rachell Henning M.S., SHRM-CP, PHR, is the Human Resources/Office Administrator at Woods, Fuller, Shultz & Smith P.C. She is the President of the Sioux Empire Society for Human Resource Management (SESHRM).

chambernews.com | Chamber News 39

MEMBER VOICE

Ambassadors play a vital role in keeping Sioux Falls area strong The Chamber Ambassador Committee will celebrate 50 years of service to the Sioux Falls area this summer with a reunion of past committee members. Many past civic and business leaders of our community have been Ambassadors and have played a vital part in helping make the Sioux Falls business community the strongest and most respected in the state and region.

MARK WAHLSTROM First Dakota Title

It’s been said that the easiest sale to make is the one you believe in the most — and I believe in Sioux Falls, S.D.

Who is an Ambassador? The official definition is that an Ambassador, who is a volunteer and not a paid staff member, sells the benefits of being a member of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce to new businesses and existing businesses who have not been a member.

The benefits of membership are many and include ribbon cuttings, convention planning assistance, a registered lobbyist for legislative issues, Business Sense Workshops, a Young Professionals Network, networking and marketing opportunities, committee participation and much more. It’s been said that the easiest sale to make is the one you believe in the most — and I believe in Sioux Falls, S.D. I was honored to be a member of the Ambassadors from 1987-2002. During that 15-year period, I participated with many fellow Ambassadors in a close bond that helped me learn more about not only Sioux Falls, but what it takes to be a leader in business in our community. By attending more than 1,000 ribbon cuttings during my tenure, I had the opportunity to meet many business owners, learn of their trade/service, know where their business was located and more importantly, do future business with them as a member of the Chamber of Commerce. This allowed me to become a more energized participant in other committees, non-profit organizations and fundraising efforts because I was working side-by-side with other business leaders who I had the privilege to meet, and become friends with through the years. Personally, I would not be who I am as a business person in Sioux Falls, and would not have been as engaged with the business community, had I not had the opportunity to be a Chamber Ambassador.

The Ambassadors are a fun-loving group — golf tournaments, fishing trips, birthday parties, Chamber Mixers, Chamber sales drives, holiday events, etc. These types of functions help the committee bond together and become a solid team. However, the ultimate goal as an Ambassador has always been, and will continue to be, to sell the Sioux Falls area and represent the Chamber at the highest level of professionalism and integrity.

I am proud to have been an active member of the Chamber Ambassadors, and congratulate all past and current members of the Committee for their dedication and leadership to the City of Sioux Falls and the region. I look forward to many laughs, great conversation and renewed friendships at the 50th Anniversary celebration this summer. To all of you — thanks for making Sioux Falls the best place to live, work, visit and play.

Mark Wahlstrom is originally from Brookings, is a graduate of South Dakota State University and has been a Sioux Falls resident since 1976. Currently he is Vice President of Business Development for First Dakota Title, and also serves on the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau BID Board, the SDSU Council of Trustees and the South Dakota Real Estate Commission.

40 Chamber News | JULY 2016

BUSINESS NEWS

Visitor Industry Updates CVB TO PROMOTE SIOUX FALLS AT NATIONAL CONVENTION

The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) will be in Pittsburgh July 20-24 for the 2016 Catholic Daughters of the Americas Biennial National Convention. CVB Sales Manager Erin Zimmerman will promote Sioux Falls, which is the site of the 2018 convention.

A biennial convention means it takes place every other year, so Sioux Falls is the next city to host this national convention. The CVB will have a Sioux Falls booth encouraging attendance and generating excitement for the 2018 convention. Sioux Falls Visitors Guides, maps, Falls Park brochures and other materials will be distributed to help educate attendees and spark interest for the 2018 convention.

Sioux Falls t-shirts will also be handed out to the first 200 visitors to the booth.

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas Biennial National Convention will be held in Sioux Falls July 17-21, 2018 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center with the Sheraton Sioux Falls Hotel as Molly Bonham, Best Western PLUS Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center the headquarter hotel. The convention will bring more than 1,000 (left photo), and Kyle Morrell, Falls Overlook Café (right photo) were the attendees from across the U.S.

NEW PROMOTIONAL CONTENT DRIVES SIOUX FALLS’ TARGETED VISITOR ENGAGEMENT

The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau added new content strategies to its summer season marketing efforts and they are paying off in a big way. The new strategies were incorporated to coincide with other successful platforms and reach an audience more interested in consuming advertising through storytelling.

New content pieces included three stories with Matador Network and four stories written for the CVB’s website, visitsiouxfalls.com.

Matador Network is the leading adventure lifestyle and travel site of the millennial generation and beyond. It is currently one of the most visited travel content sites in the world with more than 12.2 million unique visitors monthly and a combined social media follower base of 2.6 million. Two of the three stories promoting travel to Sioux Falls have generated nearly 21,000 pageviews with an average of 10 minutes spent on the page (3,502 total hours).

winners of the 2016 CVB “FAM Yourself” contest. The contest challenged local visitor industry employees to choose 10 of 16 Sioux Falls attractions to visit and “fam”iliarize themselves with in order to better inform tourists visiting Sioux Falls this summer.

CVB TO WELCOME VISITORS ALONG INTERSTATES

The Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) and several local hospitality partners will greet visitors from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Valley Springs Information Center along Interstate 90 on Friday, July 15 and Friday, Aug. 5. The CVB will also greet visitors at the Vermillion Information Center along Interstate 29 on Friday, July 22 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

These rest stop events allow the local hospitality industry an opportunity to draw visitors off the interstate to promote Sioux Falls attractions, restaurants and hotels and to inform visitors why Sioux Falls is the best place to stop. The CVB will distribute Sioux Falls visitor guides, visitor maps and Falls Park brochures.

The four stories written for the CVB’s website revolved around four themes: cheap family travel, empty-nester activities, breweries and outdoor exploration. Through May there have been more than 3,800 pageviews of the content pieces and the average time on site is 2:30. Overall the campaign has generated more than 53,000 pageviews and time on site is 3:31. The time on site is 192 percent higher than the website average.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 41

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.

American Bank & Trust

NEW MEMBER

6216 S. PINNACLE PL., #101 americanbanktrust.net American Bank & Trust is a family owned community bank that is new to Sioux Falls but has been serving South Dakota since 1892. L to R: Jeff Erickson, Tasha Lee, Nathan Stallinga, Bill Rezac, Doug Tribble, Lynn Schneider (CEO), Donna Steele, Mike Hauck, Preston Steele, Mayor Mike Huether, Jered Schock and Amy O’Connor Hoback.

Avera Medical Group Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

NEW LOCATION

6215 S. CLIFF AVE. avera.org Avera can help you feel as amazing on the outside as you do on the inside. L to R: Randall Oppold, Tom Hackl, Amy O’Connor Hoback, Dr. Tad Jacobs, Dr. Barry Martin, Alex Ramirez, Dr. Mark Shashikant, David Flicek (Senior VP, Clinic Operations), Sister Mary Thomas, David Johnson and Becky Snethen.

Ava’s House-Sanford Health

GROUNDBREAKING

sanfordhealth.org Located on 17th Street between Covell and Lake avenues on the Sanford USD Medical Center campus, this 20-bed, in-patient acute level hospice facility will serve all ages with 24-hour nursing care in a home-like environment. L to R: Nathan White, Paul Bruflat, Micah Aberson, Chrisie Funari, Nick Funari, Ron Moquist, Joanne Moquist, Paul Hanson, Mayor Mike Huether and Dale Froehlich.

Carroll Institute for Alcohol & Drug Therapy

NEW LOCATION

516 W. 12TH ST. carrollinstitute.org Carroll Institute is a comprehensive community behavioral health counseling agency, providing therapy for individuals dealing with substance use disorders. L to R: Tiffany Butler, Gary Gaspar, Carrie Dragt, John Neth, Pastor Bob Ruedebusch, Gary Tuschen (executive director), Mike Hauck, Amy O’Connor Hoback and Brenda Ebbinga.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 43

RIBBON CUTTINGS DakotAbilities

1116 S. 4TH AVE. dakotabilities.org DakotAbilities is a community service provider offering assistance to adults with developmental disabilities. L to R: Jeff Jares, Mike Hauck, Mayor Mike Huether, Robert Bohm (executive director), Nathan Stallinga, Joey Rotert, Chris Filsinger and Julie Nelson.

NEW LOCATION

Diamond Mowers, Inc.

350 E. 60TH ST. N. diamondmowers.com For more than four decades, Diamond Mowers have manufactured the toughest attachments for tractors, skid-steers and excavators.

L to R: Cedric Seefeldt, Daschle Larsen, Amy O’Connor Hoback, Bill Doyle, Linda Doyle, Len Homelvig (plant manager), Tom Hackl, Bobbi Thury and Dave Ver Steeg.

NEW MEMBER

Dress For Success Sioux Falls

620 W. 18TH ST. dressforsuccess.org/siouxfalls Dress for Success empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support. L to R: Carrie Dragt, Nancy WeberSweere, Bobbi Thury, Laurie Knutson (CEO), Erin Bosch, Valerie Loudenback, Amy O’Connor Hoback and Christie Aberson.

NEW LOCATION

Eastside Antiques & More

613 S. SYCAMORE AVE. Eastside Antiques & More is an antique mall with 45-60 quality vendors of antiques, collectibles, repurposers, artisans and more.

L to R: Tom Hackl, Ken Kramer, Leyton Kramer, Mark Luke, Angie Kramer (owner), Donna Larson, Bobbi Thury and David Johnson.

NEW MEMBER

Fareway Stores, Inc.

NEW MEMBER

44 Chamber News | JULY 2016

3301 S. SYCAMORE AVE. farewaystores.com Fareway Stores, Inc. opened a second location in Sioux Falls. This marks the 113th store for the growing Midwest grocery company. L to R: Pete Campbell, Brian Tieskotter, Brent O’Neil, Reynolds W. Cramer (CEO), Ryan Buchanan, Dean Karsky, Jamie Riesberg, B.J. Van Der Linden, Amy O’Connor Hoback, Fred Greiner (President/COO), Cari Mrla and Jacob Jeppeson.

RIBBON CUTTINGS First Bank & Trust/Coffea

GROUNDBREAKING

500 S. HIGHLINE PL. bankeasy.com/coffearoasterie.com First Bank & Trust, part of Fishback Financial Corporation, and locally-owned Coffea Roasterie broke ground on a new facility in Dawley Farm Village. L to R: Brian Thompson, Dave Waligoske, Keith Eichacker, Breanna Garbers, Mayor Mike Huether, Van Fishback, Bryan Kegley, Zoie Thune, Jason Herrboldt, Dave Timpe, Laurie Knutson, Chad VanBuskirk, Paul Bruflat, Craig Johnson.

GNC at Empire Mall

1370 W. EMPIRE MALL GNC is helping people live healthier lives.

L to R: Bryce Tran, Charlie Westbrook, Amy O’Connor Hoback, Nathan Stallinga, JJ Nair, Casey Nickell (treasurer/secretary), Rob TeKolste, Stefanie Engebretson and Michale Gunter.

NEW LOCATION

chambernews.com | Chamber News 45

RIBBON CUTTINGS Granite Springs Lodge

25840 422ND AVE., ALEXANDRIA, SD granitespringssd.com Granite Springs Lodge is South Dakota’s premier event facility. Enjoy secluded Midwestern style accommodations for your next big event or get away. L to R: Larry Ayres, Bobbi Thury, Amy O’Connor Hoback, Amanda Graves, Brian Graves (owner), Cindi Johnson and Kristy Berg.

NEW MEMBER

Koch Insurance

910 N. MAIN AVE., STE. 103, TEA, SD kochinsurance.com As an independent insurance agency, Koch Insurance represents regional and national property-casualty carriers. L to R: Royal Koch, Nathan Stallinga, Austin Koch, Dr. Dave Kapaska, R. Martin Koch (owner), Courtney Koch, Mike Hauck, Jill Sprakel, Jessica Hauck, Aaron Clayton and Joe Linneweber.

NEW MEMBER

46 Chamber News | JULY 2016

RIBBON CUTTINGS LED Light Exchange Depot

814 N. WEST AVE. lightexchangedepot.com Light Exchange Depot’s mission is to educate business owners of the benefits of LED and show them how to determine their return on investment. L to R: Tyler Viet, Julie Nelson, Chris Filsinger, Dave Stadheim, Darwin Viet (owner), Mike Hauck, Doug Viet and Amy O’Connor Hoback.

NEW MEMBER

Miss South Dakota Scholarship Foundation

NEW MEMBER

misssd.org If you’re between the ages of 13-24 and want a fun way to earn scholarships for college, get started now by visiting misssd.org for contact and application information. Volunteers and sponsors are welcome. L to R: Shawn Cable, Lynda Billars, Lexie Frankman, September Kirby (executive director), Autumn Simunek (Miss SD 2015), John Henkhaus, Liz Lloyd, Lindy Hill and Kristin Cooke.

chambernews.com | Chamber News 47

RIBBON CUTTINGS Penbrooke Place Apartments

4202 VALHALLA BLVD. hubbellapartments.com Penbrooke Place is a residential apartment community owned and managed by Hubbell Realty of West Des Moines, Iowa. L to R: Teresa Robinette, Reggie Kuipers, Jim Slater, Dean Karsky, Brian Majerus (manager), Nathan Stallinga, David May, Lynda Billars and Brittany Wipf.

EXPANSION/REMODEL

Popplers Music, Inc.

1119 W. 41ST ST. popplersmusic.com Popplers Music, Inc. is an organization committed to music performance and education in the Sioux Falls region. L to R: Peter Afdahl, Dean Karsky, Nicole Raml, Betty Oldenkamp, Paul Schilf (general manager), Nathan Stallinga, Don Langlie and Rolyn Beaird.

NEW MEMBER

Riverside Technologies, Inc.

2329 N. CAREER AVE. #235 1rti.com RTI is a provider of total customized computer needs, IT services and your managed solutions partner. L to R: Denis Lueders, Mark Luke, Carrie Dragt, Kevin Heiss (president), Dan Pollema, Jackie Stratman, Dean Karsky and Andrew Robinson.

NEW MEMBER

SEAM (Secure Enterprise Asset Management)

705 E. 48TH ST. N. seamservices.com SEAM provides compliant, secure and certified IT asset-recovery, data destruction, and environmentally sound electronics recycling.

L to R: Levi Hentges, Larry Ayres, Jake Anderson (president/CEO), Nathan Stallinga, Bobbi Thury, Daren Anderson and Vince Anderson.

NAME CHANGE

Simply Divine Day Spa

111 W. 39TH ST. Simply Divine Day Spa is Sioux Falls’ newest spa that puts some inner peace back into your day with good energy in a calm and relaxing atmosphere. L to R: Candy Spaid, Dean Karsky, Deb Peterson, Kelsey Burns (owner/massage therapist/esthetician), Lexie Frankman, Melissa Kucera, Amy O’Connor Hoback, Lynda Billars and Jessica Burns.

NEW MEMBER

48 Chamber News | JULY 2016

RIBBON CUTTINGS Sioux Falls Ford, Inc.

GROUNDBREAKING

4901 W. 26TH ST. siouxfallsford.com Sioux Falls Ford broke ground on a 90,000 sq. ft. facility on 15 acres, which will feature a 46 bay service department and sales of new Ford and Lincoln and other pre-owned vehicles. L to R: Chuck Eide, Paul Bruflat, Mayor Mike Huether, Bennett Bloom, Gretchen Chaplin, Emmeline Chaplin, Mike Chaplin, Isabel Chaplin, Ed Bloom, Andrew Bloom, Heidi Bloom, Debbie Nehring, Randy Nehring, Tim Hilber and Dale Froehlich.

z*stonish Magician & Hypnotist

zstonish.com Zac Tenneboe, aka z*stonish, is a full-time comedy hypnotist and magician. He travels all across the country performing for corporate events, colleges and high schools. L to R: Mary Tenneboe, Tim Sturdevant, Amy O’Connor Hoback, Heather Simon, Zac Tenneboe (owner/ entertainer), Cindi Johnson, Jackie Stratman and Dave Tenneboe.

NEW MEMBER

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.

Allstate-Pickering Agency

The Falls Classic

Minnehaha-Lincoln Republican Women

Insurance Dan Pickering, (605) 496-7161 6116 S. Lyncrest Ave., Ste. 102, 57108 agents.allstate.com/daniel-pickering-sioux-falls-sd.html

Fitness Centers Jennifer Martinez, (402) 844-3990 thefallsclassic.com

Associate Member Karon Gubbrud, (605) 941-5643

barre3 Sioux Falls Fitness Centers Kennen Barber-Ensz, (605) 271-6908 5035 S. Louise Ave., 57108 barre3.com

Compass Health Home Health Care Equipment & Supplies Dona Bruinsma, (605) 275-0137 921 E. Amidon St., 57104 compasshealthbrands.com

Fernson on 8th Bars & Lounges Eddie Eisiminger, (605) 351-7131 201 N. Weber Ave., 57103 fernson.com

Great Plains Sponsorships, Inc. Sponsorships-Corporate Partnerships Ryan Querry, (402) 657-8170 greatplainssponsorships.com

Hartman Architecture, LLC

Dennis L. and Casey Murschel

Architects Roger G. Hartman, (605) 838-9306

Associate Member Dennis L. & Casey Murschel

MarketBeat.com

Eastside Antiques & More Antiques Angela Kramer, (605) 271-3256 613 S. Sycamore Ave., 57110

50 Chamber News | JULY 2016

Financial Services Matthew Paulson, (605) 310-4033 marketbeat.com

Sioux Falls Pilots Sports-Collegiate Landon Danelson, (605) 261-5570 siouxfallspilots.pointstreaksites.com/view/siouxfallspilots

South Dakota Wind Energy Association Associate Member Angela Landeen, (605) 679-7920 300 E. Capitol Ave., #1, Pierre, SD 57501 sdwea.org

Swanger for Senate Associate Member Tyler Swanger, (605) 929-8023 tylerswanger.com

The Lynda B. Advantage/Team Billars & Associates KW-William J. Huet Affiliate-Real Estate Dr. William J. Huet, (605) 941-1064 5915 S. Remington Pl., 57108

MEMBERSHIP

Member Anniversaries 40 YEARS

J.D.’s House of Trophies

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.

5 YEARS

Trophies, Awards, Signs

American Family InsuranceTerra Koupal Agency

30 YEARS

Insurance terrakoupalagency.com

Sioux Valley Energy Utilities siouxvalleyenergy.com

U.S. Postal Service Post Office usps.gov

15 YEARS

Blend Interactive Internet Web Site Design/Development blendinteractive.com

Great Plains Dental Dentists gplainsdental.com

Muth Technology Computer Cabling & Installation, Telecommunication Cabling muthtechnology.com

10 YEARS

De Neui Properties & Construction, LLC

Date Night Dance Company, LLC Dance Instruction datenightdance.com

Ideal Wedding & Events Wedding Services & Accessories idealweddingandevents.com

Joshua Homes Construction-Residential builtbyjoshua.com

Hope Prison Ministry Associate Member

Keller Williams Realty of Sioux FallsCodi Nincehelser Affiliate-Real Estate myhomemyharrisburg.com

Keller Williams Realty Sioux FallsAnne Lawrence

Construction kruetzfeldtconstruction.com

Rainbow Comics, Cards & Collectibles

Legacy Wealth Group

Comic Books & Gaming rainbowcardsandcomics.com

Financial Services legacywealthsf.com

Panther Graphics, LLC: Print & Media Solutions Printers pantherg.com

The Pita Pit Restaurants pitapitusa.com

Contractors-General buildingsouthdakota.com

Associate Member grandliving.com

Affiliate-Real Estate annesdistinctivehomes.com

Original Pancake House

Paradigm Construction, LLC

Grand Living

Kruetzfeldt Construction Co.

Construction-Residential & Remodel

Restaurants originalpancakehousesiouxfalls.com

FIRST-YEAR MEMBERS WHO REINVESTED DURING THEIR MAY ANNIVERSARY MONTH

VVI Advertising Agencies vvicrew.com

PODS Moving & Storage Moving & Storage pods.com

Sioux Falls Synergy Associate Member sfsynergy.org

chambernews.com | Chamber News 51

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 Lynda Billars Lynda Billars, ABR, SRES, CRS is a Realtor broker with the Lynda B Advantage Team Billars & Associates KW Realty. Billars has been a Realtor in Sioux Falls for 16 years and was previously an optical Office Manager for Midwest Vision Centers and Optometric Clinic (now known as Vision Care Associates). She holds a degree in optical, was a National Certified Optician, ABO & NCLE and is a graduate of Midwest Vision Centers in St. Cloud, Minn. She also attended Dakota State University and Colorado Technical University. She is married to Dr. Tom Billars.

They enjoy spending time at the lake with family and friends. She has been an Ambassador since 2001 and also served as a Diplomat and on the Chamber’s Board of Directors.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SIOUX FALLS? I surround myself with positive, forward-thinking people who have vision and the capability to carry that vision through. That’s why the Chamber of Commerce is one of my favorite things about Sioux Falls. The success we experience every day here in Sioux Falls is directly connected to our past and present leaders of our community — especially the leaders from the Chamber!

LYNDA BILLARS

The Lynda B Advantage/Team Billars & Associates KW

WHAT IS THE BEST THING THE CHAMBER DOES FOR THE SIOUX FALLS AREA? Pulls everyone and everything together cohesively, making us one of the best places in the world to raise a family and grow your business!

WHAT HAVE YOU OR YOUR EMPLOYER GAINED FROM BEING A CHAMBER MEMBER? Knowledge in what’s happening in our community. Constant updates about what can affect our businesses and our families. The Chamber of Commerce is made up of more than 2,200 members, they hold monthly mixers bringing those members together to converse, share business ideas and build camaraderie. It’s like a leads group on steroids.

WHAT ARE YOU READING RIGHT NOW? Alexander Hamilton, by Ron Chernow

WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED? That people often mistake kindness for weakness, but on the contrary — it’s anything but weak!

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.

JazzFest turns 25 From humble beginnings in a backyard near to hundreds of thousands of visitors in a three-day event, the Sioux Falls JazzFest has certainly grown over the last quarter century. JazzFest is a fundraiser for Sioux Falls Jazz & Blues, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

The top picture is from the 2004 JazzFest, which featured headliners John Hiatt, Little Feat and Chris Botti. Approximately 80,000 attended that year. The lower right-hand photo is from the very first year in 1991. It was in 1996 when the annual festival was named JazzFest and was held at Yankton Trail Pak, where it continues to be held today. In 2000, JazzFest was extended to two days and was extended again in 2009 to three days. Approximately 8,000 people attended in 1996 and the festival has grown ever since. JazzFest had record attendance in 2012 and 2013 when over 125,000 attended the festival over the course of three days both years.

This year’s headliners include Tab Benoit, Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, The Fray, Bruce Horsby & the Noisemakers and Coco Montoya. The 25th Annual JazzFest will be held July 14-16 at Yankton Trail Park. For details on parking, vendors and other musical acts appearing, visit siouxfallsjazzfest.com.

54 Chamber News | JULY 2016