July/August 2024 Chamber News by Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce

Blending the benefits of a regional company with local service and connections

Chamber News Local ties

Advocating for you at the federal level Chamber task force supports military interests

July/August 2024

Local ties

Advocating

Publisher

Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce

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

Chamber News Layout/Design Jill Blom

Chamber News Editor Jennie Doyen For editorial information, call (605) 336-1620

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

Postmaster please send address changes to: Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce 200 N Phillips Ave , Suite 200, Sioux Falls, SD 57104

Phone: (605) 336-1620

Email: gsfcc@siouxfalls com

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

siouxfallschamber.com

2023-24

EXECUTIVE

Chair

Chair-Elect

Vice

Treasurer

Immediate

Minnehaha

A meeting of the Chamber’s Military Task Force.

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

Message from the Chair

It’s hard to believe I am already in the tenth month of having the honor as serving of the chair of Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. It has truly been an exciting and rewarding experience for me.

You have heard me mention before, I am always seeing ways in which the Chamber is involved and impacting our community. The past month was no exception. On June 4, members of the Chamber’s Military Task Force met at the South Dakota Air National Guard Hanger for an update on current operations and issues. Adjutant General Mark Morrell addressed the group regarding activities on the base, and it was truly impressive and inspiring to me. I had not previously realized the full scope of South Dakota’s National Guard, and on this day more specifically, the South Dakota Air Guard. Our award-winning Guard currently has two squadrons out on mission, with another coming up this summer. We also discussed upcoming funding and equipment needs. Did you know that the base has an $83.9 million impact on our economy? Did you know our unit has received 16 national awards since 2014? Neither did I. Be on the lookout for more updates in future editions of Chamber News, as discussions on needs and priorities will be covered in more detail.

Also in June, we had the pleasure of hosting a contingent of folks from Rochester, Minnesota for a chamber exchange. They received a bus tour around Sioux Falls, and tours of Sanford Health, Avera Health, Foundation Park, The Steel District and Cherapa Place. They also heard from Mayor Paul TenHaken and Sioux Falls Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Jane Stavem. And that was just part of what was included in their two-day visit. My takeaway from this exchange is that we have a lot to be proud of in Sioux Falls, and your Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce is very involved in all of it!

These two events are just a couple of recent examples that illustrate the theme I’ve been reminding you of all year: Working in concert, we are all making Sioux Falls the best place to live, work and play.

Thank you Premium Sponsors

Member Anniversaries

Congratulations to these businesses that have achieved milestone anniversaries of their Chamber membership. These milestones represent a continued commitment to building our community through their investment in the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce.

40 years

Century Business Products, Inc. Office Equipment & Supplies cbpnow.com

Domino’s Pizza Restaurants dominos.com

35 years

ASM Global and Denny Sanford

PREMIER Center Event Venues dennysanfordpremiercenter.com

RAS Insurance & Benefits rascompanies.com

30 years

Northwestern MutualDaniel K. Houg Affiliate-Insurance northwesternmutual.com

Foundation Building Materials (FBM) Building Materials fbmsales.com

25 years

CAPITAL Services Credit Card Co. capitalsvcs.com

NAI Sioux Falls Real Estate-Commercial naisiouxfalls.com

20 years

Grand Prairie Foods Food Production/Distribution grandprairiefoods.com

SilverStone Group/ HUB International Insurance & Benefits silverstonegroup.com

Sunkota Construction, Inc. Contractors sunkotaconstruction.com

15 years

Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce Associate Member hartfordsdchamber.org

Marco Computer Sales & Service marconet.com

10 years

South Dakota Community Foundation Associate Member sdcommunityfoundation.org

FNBO Banks fnbo.com

Inland Truck Parts & Service Truck/Trailer Sales & Service inlandtruck.com

Mission-Haiti Associate Member mission-haiti.org

Walmart North Retail-Specialty walmart.com

5 years

Abbey Group, Ltd. Business Consulting abbeygroupltd.com

Charisse Oland

Associate Member

Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs Restaurants goodcentssubs.com

Great Shots Entertainment greatshots.golf

Hotel on Phillips Hotels & Motels hotelonphillips.com

KONE, Inc. Specialty Industrial kone.com

Lazaderm Salons & Spas lazaderm.com

Loffler Computer Sales & Service loffler.com

Lupulin Brewing Company Bars & Breweries lupulinbrewing.com

Prairie Rehabilitation Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy prairierehab.com

Providence Financial Insurance & Benefits 605insured.com

The Summit League Associate Member thesummitleague.org

First year reinvestors

Aaron Swan & Associates, Inc. Engineering aaronswan.com

EilersFurs, Est. 1927 Furrier eilersfurs.com

Herrmann Insurance Agency Inc. Insurance & Benefits herrmannagencies.com

Mills Property Management Property Management millsproperty.com

Ogborn, Mihm & Quaintance Attorneys omqlegal.com

Pleasureland RV Recreational Vehicles pleasurelandrv.com

Sage Capital Advisors, LLC Financial Services sage-cap.com

Thorson Heating and Air Conditioning Heating & Cooling thorsonheatinginc.com

Voices Against Cancer Associate Member voicesagainstcancer.org

New Members

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

Advise to Build, Inc.

Real Estate & Construction

Andrea Smith, (605) 518-9117 P.O. Box 60, 57101 advisetobuild.com

Alleviate Mental Health Fund

Nonprofit-Health & Wellness

Zebiba Zere, (605) 400-8040 108 E. 38th St., Suite B300, 57105

Ames Construction Contractors

Andy Scherff, (952) 892-8690 Burnsville, MN 55337 amesconstruction.com

Canopy by Hilton Sioux Falls

Downtown

Hotels & Motels

Hristiyana Ralinova, (605) 275-4120 120 E. 4th Place, 57104 hilton.com/en/brands/canopy-by-hilton

Dakota Mattress Ventures

Retail–Specialty

Paul Hollister, (605) 271-9355 1420 N. Minnesota Ave., 57104 mattressfirm.com

DCH Digital Community Holdings

Marketing & Design Services

Mark Elliott, (605) 900-6043 4009 W. 49th St., Suite 105, 57106 dch.com

Dolly Domino

Jewelry

Heidi Coatsworth, (605) 366-2698

East River Farms LLC

Medical Services & Supplies

Zack Winter, (605) 306-6745 3613 W. Avera Drive, Suite 3, 57108 eastriverfarms.com

etc. for her Magazine/expo for her Publications

Angela Ellerbroek etcsiouxfalls.com

Fortune Logistics, LLC

Trucking & Transit

Tyler Gilpin, (507) 832-8200 101 S. Phillips Ave., Suite 102, 57104 fortunetransportation.com

Hoogendoorn Construction

Contractors

Rachael Maassen, (605) 987-4319 47895 US Highway 18, Canton, 57013 hoogendoornconstruction.com

Hot Pink Real Estate LLC

Bookkeeping

JoyAnna Chabaka, (605) 774-4656

IGNITE Infrared Fitness Studio

Fitness Health & Recreation

Melissa Chin, (605) 271-0382 6144 S. Lyncrest Ave., 57108 ignitefitness.studio

Jacky’s Burrito Express 41st Restaurants

Jackelyn Vanloh, (605) 271-2780 3101 W. 41st St., 57105

Jaunt Micro Mobility LLC.

Entertainment

Samantha O’Neil, (605) 323-7084 electricjaunt.com

Joy Wealth Management

Financial Planning

Lindsey Swenson, (605) 323-6606

2307 W. 57th St., Suite 200, 57108 northwesternmutual.com/financial/advisor/ lindsey-swenson

KAJ Hospitality

Hotels & Motels

Bryan Ahlers, (605) 231-5815 4424 S. Technology Drive, 57106 kajhospitality.com

Kinetico Water Systems

Beverages–Wholesale

Julene Edwards, (605) 339-3434 401 S. Minnesota Ave., 57104 kineticosiouxfalls.com

Kirkwall

Security

Will Cromarty, (650) 300-9997 kirkwall.io

Lund Engineering & Environmental, LLC

Engineering

Nathan Lund, (605) 370-3430 2116 S. Minnesota Ave., Suite 2C, 57105 le2.us

Miles West Creative

Marketing/Advertising Agencies

Derek Baune, (605) 651-3426 mileswestcreative.com

Mr. Donuts

Bakery/Sweets

Stev Meas, (605) 274-8989 1100 S. Minnesota Ave., 57105

Olivia Gurule Allstate Agency

Insurance & Benefits

Olivia Gurule, (605) 550-6105

agents.allstate.com/olivia-gurule-sioux-falls-sd. html

Prairie Road Yarn

Retail–Specialty

Jane Taylor, (605) 271-1577 3101 W. 41st St., Suite 115, 57105 prairieroadyarn.com

Prime IV Hydration & Wellness

Salons & Spas

Melissa Reno, (605) 231-9263

7208 S. Lyncrest Place, 57108 primeivhydration.com

Revitalize Organizing & Cleaning Cleaning Services

Nikita Edwards, (605) 210-1361 myrevitalizeorganizing.com

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls Contractors

Adam Birger, (605) 213-3303

701 E. 48th St. N., 57104 servprowestsiouxfalls.com

South Central Veterinary Clinic Veterinary Services

Dr. Sara Hofer, (605) 336-1650 2709 E. 26th St., 57103 southcentralvetclinic.com

South Dakota Parkinson Foundation

Associate Member

Janey Case, (605) 271-6113 1000 N. West Ave., Suite 220, 57104 southdakotaparkinson.org

Women of the Armed Forces

Associate Member

Heather Bormann 1600 W. Russell St., 57104 wotafsf.org

Yellow Brick Road Counseling & Therapy

Mental Health & Counseling

Holly Merrick-Liston, (605) 220-8593

6901 S. Lyncrest Place, Suite 104, 57108 holly-merrick-liston.clientsecure.me

Ziggi’s Coffee Coffee Shops

Mike Minor, (605) 221-3373

4410 E. 57th St., 57103 ziggiscoffee.com/sioux-falls-sd-location

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

As you create fun on wheels WE CONNECT YOU.

If it’s got wheels, Empire Motorsports probably has it. From motorcycles, ATVs, side by sides, scooters and lawn mowers, to trailers and lawn and garden equipment, Owner Ross Jasper and his team sell and service them.

But as Jasper points out, what they’re really selling is fun. Besides stocking and servicing various motorsport vehicles, they aim to make every customer experience a great one. As an independent business, lifting up the local economy is core to all they do.

“ The Chamber helps a business like ours connect with other businesses and customers in the area. That’s very important to us, because when you’re involved locally, you’re supporting not only your business, but other businesses, too.”

– Ross Jasper, Empire Motorsports

With the Chamber at their side, Empire Motorsports is enjoying the ride.

Chamber Event Calendar

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

Membership Mixer

JUL 9 TUE

$5 OR USE YOUR MIXER PASS

4:30–6:30 p.m.

McCrossan Boys Ranch, 47135 260th St.

Expand your professional network at the July Membership Mixer. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar.

Membership Mixer

AUG 13 TUE

$5 OR USE YOUR MIXER PASS

CRAVE - Hilton Garden Inn Downtown 201 E. 8th St.

Expand your professional network at the August Membership Mixer. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar.

YPN

Community Connections Tour

4–5 p.m.

Sioux Falls Veterans Community Project, 367 North Willow Ave.

YPN Community Connections Tours provides the opportunity to get an inside look at a local business. On this tour, you will view the behind the scenes of Veterans Community Project of Sioux Falls.

Business Sense Workshop –

Building your small business team

11 a.m.–Noon Zoom

No small business operates alone. Learn the basics of how to build your “startup team” with the MRS.BAIL lens: Marketing, Real Estate, Support, Business Banking, Accounting, Insurance and Business Law. This workshop is presented by SD CEO East.

YPN Topics on Tap

4–5 p.m.

JJ’s Wine, Spirits, & Cigars, 3000 W. 57th St.

Topics on Tap helps you become informed on the issues that will appear on South Dakota’s general election ballot this November. Hear the pros and cons of each ballot measure from speakers on both sides of the issues.

Planning an event? Let us help you promote it! Submit your event to siouxfallsevents com All events welcome – business workshops, retail events, entertainment,

Economic Indicators

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

City of Sioux Falls Building Permit Data

May 2024 - cumulative year to date

City of Sioux Falls Total Construction Value

May 2024 - cumulative year to date

Regional Unemployment Rates

April 2024

Sioux Falls Region Housing Overview May 2024

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

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

Faces & Places

Recognition of Chamber Volunteers

The Ambassador Committee promotes the Chamber and assists in bringing new members into the organization. The Diplomat Committee works to maintain membership strength in the Chamber and provide outstanding customer service to members. Their volunteer service helps to keep the Chamber strong.

This month’s featured volunteer is Lucas Fiegen, Fiegen Construction, six years as an ambassador.

The ACE Award is presented to one ambassador in recognition of their efforts to recruit and support new Chamber members. April Meyerink, American Bank & Trust, received the ACE Award for May.

The ambassador team of the month for May was April Meyerink, American Bank & Trust; Jennifer Hoesing, Girl Scouts Dakota Horizons; and Jay Soukup, Stifel

The diplomat of the month for May was Brian Sittig, CNA Surety Event Champion honors went to Chad Stephens, Quality Telecommunications

The diplomat team of the month for May was Team Carstensen: Captain Andrea Carstensen, Minnwest Bank; Cindi Johnson, Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort; Bethany Buitenbos, Chickfil-A Empire Place; and Paige Short, LSS of South Dakota

Volunteer Ambassadors and Chamber Builders recruited 27 new members to join the Chamber during the annual Spring Membership Drive. This vibrant growth underscores the community’s commitment to fostering business connections, economic growth and collaborative development within the region. The new members will gain access to a

variety of resources, including business development programs, exclusive networking opportunities and advocacy support. During a special Grammysthemed reception at the conclusion of the Drive, awards were presented to the top performing volunteers. April Meyerink, American Bank & Trust, received “Album of the Year” for selling the highest number of memberships this year. Cindi Johnson, Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort, received “Songwriter of the Year” for selling the most memberships during the Spring Drive time period.

Our volunteers are a key part of how we carry out our mission. Visit siouxfallschamber.com to find opportunities and ways to get involved in bettering our community.

Chamber Mission

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

Lucas Fiegen Fiegen Construction Co.

April Meyerink American Bank & Trust

Brian Sittig CNA Surety

Chad Stephens Quality Telecommunications

Cindi Johnson Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort

New Faces & Promotions

Brittany Hanson has been named as program director for Forward Sioux Falls. She will ensure the continued successful planning, implementation, and management of the program, which is a joint venture of the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce and the Sioux Falls Development Foundation. Hanson has experience leading crossfunctional teams in fundraising, volunteer development and communications. She most recently served as director of alumni relations and annual giving for the University of Sioux Falls. Hanson will begin her new role in late July.

The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce welcomed two new staff members. Ellen Swanson is an administrative assistant, responsible for customer service, office coordination and accounting support. Beth Hanson is a member services specialist, supporting chamber members through communication and data management.

Amanda Czarnick has joined Caliber Creative as graphic designer. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design and a certificate in digital marketing from the University of South Dakota.

The First National Bank in Sioux Falls has hired Sarah Hogg as a wealth advisor–tax consultant on their wealth management team. Hogg previously

Honors & Awards

Ron Staebell, Principal Financial Group, achieved membership in the prestigious MDRT (Million Dollar Round Table) organization for the 41st year. Membership in MDRT is a highly recognized mark of excellence and limited to only the most successful in the financial services profession. This places Staebell among the top professionals in the global life insurance and financial services industry.

Downtown Sioux Falls, Inc. honored the Jacobsen Family with their annual Spirit of Downtown Award. The award recognizes a person or organization that has a legacy of advocating for downtown, making substantial contributions to the community through their passion for the heart of Sioux Falls. The

worked as a CPA in both public and private practice for nearly 30 years. Mitch Janssen has been promoted to business banker. He has been with the bank for four years and previously served as a universal banker.

Lawrence & Schiller, Inc. has hired five new employees and promoted one. Justin Carlson and Gayle Hansen join the agency as designers. Also new to the agency are Katie Jansen as media coordinator; Cassie Severson as account executive; and Carol Yusten as financial assistant/receptionist.

Matt Sebert, who has been with L&S for six years, was promoted to creative director.

MarketBeat has added two associate editors to their growing team. Bridget Bennett has more than a decade of experience in broadcasting and communications from her previous role as a news anchor and reporter. Shannon Tokheim brings experience from her previous role as an English teacher.

Architecture Incorporated hired Dawson Johnke as a BIM Technician. Johnke started as an intern with the company last fall and joined full-time upon his graduation from Southeast Technical College with an A.A.S. degree in Architectural Engineering Technology.

Jacobsen Family Plaza, which is under construction on the north side of downtown, will include an ice skating ribbon, an inclusive playground, a dog park and a splash pad.

Engineering News-Record (ENR) named JLG Architects as the 2024 ENR Mountain States Design Firm of the Year, an award that coincides with a top 10 ranking on ENR’s list of Top Design Firms (Colorado, Wyoming, Dakotas). The recognition was based on the firm’s recent projects and a reported $52.01 million in regional revenue for 2023. In choosing JLG as Design Firm of the Year, ENR noted several of the firm’s recently completed and upcoming projects, including Augustana University’s $72 million Midco Arena.

Brittany Hanson

Bridget Bennett Shannon Tokheim

Mitch Janssen

Sarah Hogg

Amanda Czarnick

Dawson Johnke

Beth Hanson

Ellen Swanson

Service

Marla Dziedzic, Avera Health, has been elected chair of the board of directors for Bank Midwest. Dziedzic has been a board member since 2019 and brings extensive experience in business, education, and community involvement to her new role. In addition, Ben Arndt was appointed as the newest member of the Bank Midwest board of directors. Arndt has a rich background in business and a deep-rooted passion for community involvement.

Three employees of The First National Bank in Sioux Falls have accepted service positions with local industry organizations. Ag Banking

Mergers

EAPC Architects Engineers (EAPC) and Perspective Design Studio (Perspective) have merged, effective May 29, 2024. The partnership blends Perspective’s compelling design strategies with EAPC’s robust engineering and architecture expertise, elevating the capacity and quality of services available to clients around the region. Perspective Design Studio was established in 2007 in Sioux Falls and specializes in architecture and design across multiple sectors, with a strong emphasis on creating innovative and functional spaces tailored to the needs of each client. EAPC has been providing multidisciplinary architecture and engineering services for over 57 years. With a network of 10 offices and a team of nearly 200 professionals, they offer comprehensive design solutions across various sectors, including civic, healthcare, education and industrial.

Manager Brian Gilbert has joined the Independent Community Bankers of America’s Rural America and Agriculture Committee. Ag Banking Team Lead Josh Kayser has joined the South Dakota Pork Producers Council Executive Board. Business Banker Derek Simonsen has joined the South Dakota Development Corporation Board of Directors.

Vince Danh, 4Front Studios, and Catherine Dekkenga, JLG Architects, are new members of the board of directors for Downtown Sioux Falls, Inc.

Good Deeds

Levo Credit Union has awarded $1,000 each to six area students through the Levo Cares Scholarship Program. The winners were selected based on community service and academic excellence from a field of 32 applicants. The scholarship recipients are Halle Bruflat (Dakota State University), Zoe Bruflat (Northwestern College), Meredyth Broers, (University of South Dakota), Rayann Hoppe (University of South Dakota), Austin Reuter (South Dakota State University), and Josh Weissenberger (University of South Dakota).

Josh Kayser

Derek Simonsen

Brian Gilbert

Ben Arndt

Marla Dziedzic

Be Seen

The Chamber’s annual Business Fair & Mixer was held at the Ramkota Exhibit Hall on June 11 . This year, the event expanded to welcome members of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the South Dakota Black Chamber of Commerce as exhibitors and attendees . More than 50 business showcased their products and services to event attendees

Be Seen

The monthly Morning Mingle event is an opportunity for Chamber members to start their day with coffee and networking . Stewart Title hosted guests at their south Sioux Falls office in May .

Falls Lutheran School welcomed YPN members for coffee and networking at a recent Morning Buzz .

A Seat at the Table offers YPN members the chance to learn from experienced community leaders in a small group environment . At a recent session, Dakota Applied Research Corporation CEO Andrea Thompson shared lessons from her 25-year career in the U .S . Army .

Sioux

The annual Armed Forces Day ceremonies honor the men and women serving in our nation’s military Andrea Thompson, a retired U .S . Army veteran and current CEO of Dakota Applied Research Corporation, addressed the audience at the 2024 program

Be Seen Faces & Places

Young professionals gathered at The Clark building, newly opened at Cherapa II, for refreshments and networking at the June Off the Clock .

The Young Professionals Network hosted Intro Sioux Falls at Great Shots on June 20 . Designed to support talent retention efforts, the event welcomes newcomers to the city and seeks to connect them to businesses, activities and attractions that will help them settle into their new community

YPN members met at Chick-fil-A Empire Place for Power Lunch networking .

Be Seen

At a recent ChamberHood luncheon held at J&L Harley-Davidson, attendees learned about projects underway or planned for the northwest side of Sioux Falls . Participants also had the chance to connect with other Chamber members who live or work on that side of town

The annual Agribusiness Awards Banquet took place at Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort in early June . Businesses and volunteers were recognized for their contributions to the Chamber’s Agribusiness Division over the past year .

GREATER SIOUX FALLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Community Appeals Scheduled Fund Drives

The purpose of the Community Appeals Committee is to qualify and provide orderly scheduling of capital fund drives to the business community .

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

LifeScape Hospital & School

April 1, 2024 – July 31, 2024

To construct a new campus to increase residential service capacity, specialty school capacity and outpatient services .

Butterfly House & Aquarium

Nov. 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025

To merge with the Great Plains Zoo and establish a visionary public aquarium and butterfly habitat

Forward Sioux Falls

Nov. 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026

Abbott House

April 1, 2026 – July 31, 2026

Where there's light, there’s potential.

Enjoy the UPTIME.

sdncommunications.com

At SDN, UPTIME is ready and waiting for your best ideas, no matter when they strike.

LOCAL TIES

Blending the benefits of a regional company with local service and connections

By Jill Callison

For the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce

After Innovative Office Solutions merged with a longtime Sioux Falls office supplies business, chief operation officer Julie Owens began making monthly trips here from her Burnsville, Minnesota, headquarters.

Since then, she has become familiar with Sioux Falls and how the business community operates. That means sometime soon Owens may make an appearance at a Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce event, accompanying Innovative’s Dakota sales director Jerry Sjoberg, a frequent participant in Chamber events.

It would be another way to emphasize something that Innovative has stressed since it merged with Brown & Saenger in 2018: Growing into a larger entity does not mean moving away from core values and community engagement. Instead, it is a way to strengthen both the support of staff and of clients. Owens was reminded of that importance when her firm first began doing business in South Dakota, before merger talks even began.

“We had started doing business with the state of South Dakota and their office supply contract, so we had experience in the state and were looking for opportunities,” she

said. The merger with Brown & Saenger was Innovative’s first in South Dakota, and they chose to partner with a firm that had close similarities to its own beginnings.

But no merger—marriage if you will—can be rushed into if it is going to be successful. For Sioux Falls firms that have chosen to find a partner, community and employee wellbeing take precedence, and those who directed the merger are proud when not a single staff member loses their jobs.

A business can become part of something bigger while maintaining its local connections. Here are three examples of how it was done.

Brady Martz

It began during a game of golf.

And when it ended, a Sioux Falls CPA firm learned it didn’t have to go far to find the perfect partner to serve its clients and its community.

On Oct. 1, 2023, the two-location Woltman Group merged with Brady Martz & Associates, P.C., and its offices in North Dakota and Minnesota. The move means additional services and opportunities in terms of specialization and quality, said Eric DeHaan, CPA, PFS.

“We were really excited about the merger in terms of the additional services and the quality of our services,” said DeHaan, currently the Brady Martz market segment lead for Sioux Falls. He is transitioning that role to Eric Maas effective July 1 so DeHaan can devote more time and energy to his responsibilities in client service and on the Brady Martz board of directors.

Also of importance: The merger with Brady Martz would serve the Woltman Group staff well, creating new opportunities while allowing the company’s value of serving others to continue to shine.

“When considering a merger, we would only say yes if it was a win for our staff and a win for our clients,” DeHaan said. “We saw that merging with Brady Martz would be a win for our staff. It would create new opportunities that the Woltman Group as a standalone could not provide.”

Before the merger, DeHaan was managing partner with the Woltman Group. Randy Woltman founded the Woltman Group in 1988; it operated under several different names until 2015 when it rebranded.

Brady Martz’s roots extend back to 1927 when an accounting firm in Grand Forks, North Dakota, opened. In 1981, it merged with a Minot, North Dakota, firm. Since then, it has acquired or opened offices in Thief River Falls and Crookston, Minnesota; Bismarck, Dickinson and Fargo, North Dakota, and now Sioux Falls and Marion.

Brady Martz currently employs about 400 people with 90 of its staff located in South Dakota. The CPA firm offers traditional compliance services such as tax and financial reporting along with advisory services that will meet the needs of all small to medium-sized businesses, DeHaan said. The Woltman Group also offered advisory services, but the merger expanded those resources.

“For example, the Woltman Group offered the traditional tax services and also succession planning and valuation services, but we only had a few individuals that did it, and we couldn’t always meet the needs and demands,” DeHaan said. “Brady Martz has built out a significant department that can provide the turn-around time that clients and attorneys appreciate.”

Its clients include a vast array of industries such as agriculture, hospitality, construction, manufacturing,

BradyMartz shareholders Pat Dooley, Eric DeHaan, Tim Stotz and Eric Maas pose for a photo in the lobby of their Sioux Falls office.

dealerships, nonprofits, financial institutions and professional services companies.

The possibility of a merger started several years ago when a Brady Martz shareholder and a Woltman Group shareholder found themselves on a golf course. As they shared information about their professional lives, they realized that their firms had the same passions and priorities.

“They saw the synergies,” DeHaan said. “They said, ‘we should have our managing partners talk.’”

Two years later, a connection was made. The pandemic delayed conversation about a possible merger, but before then both firms’ managing partners had also seen and appreciated the similarities.

“They had strengths that we didn’t have, we had strengths that they didn’t have, and we felt we complemented each other really well. That got me excited about what a merger could offer,” DeHaan said.

One of those synergies was and is for community involvement. “A firm based in the country’s heartland with locations in essential communities needs to make giving back a priority,” DeHaan said. “For the Woltman Group, it means a building on our 10-year membership in the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce, serving meals at The Banquet and supporting our local schools and nonprofits like the Sioux Empire United Way, among other things.”

His firm looks for ways to initiate a community impact and to support ongoing activities, DeHaan said. A recent Chamber of Commerce Community Appeal campaign that has made a profound impression is the tiny-homes project that built small dwellings for homeless veterans.

“It gave us the opportunity to give to those who gave so much to their country, and we’re all beneficiaries of that,” DeHaan said. “We didn’t have to sacrifice—those veterans did, and this gives us the opportunity to give back in a small but tangible way.”

Innovative Office Solutions

When Jennifer Smith founded Innovative Office Solutions in 2001, her vision was to make workplaces more productive, where people would love to work and could make a difference.

Although Smith died in December 2021, the family-owned company’s commitment to her ideals remains unwavering. Her husband, Brooks Smith, moved from chief financial officer to chief executive officer and president, and the Smiths’ two grown children and their spouses also work at Innovative.

During his 50 years in business, Lyle Dabbert, owner of longtime Sioux Falls office supply firm Brown & Saenger, became familiar with Jennifer Smith and her father, who also had worked in that industry. When Dabbert made

the decision to sell his firm, which dated back to 1889, Innovative was the perfect fit.

“Lyle and the Smith family knew each other over the years,” said Joel Eisland, branch manager in Sioux Falls with 25 years of experience.

Thomas Henderson Brown and Eugene Saenger founded their business in 1889 to serve the printing needs of a small community. As Sioux Falls grew, Brown & Saenger expanded operations with it, increasing their offerings and eventually moving from a downtown location to West Russell Street.

In almost a quarter-century, Innovative had seen even faster growth, but its acquisition of Brown & Saenger in 2018 was its first step outside the Twin Cities area.

“We started as an office supply company just like Brown & Saenger, and we expanded into furniture, with 40 percent of our business in the furniture area,” Brooks Smith said.

“More recently we added janitorial products, and we also do industrial, which would be products to take care of your building or workplace. We do breakrooms with coffee and snacks and things like that. We try to encompass the whole workplace area from the front to the back.”

Innovative has 13 offices scattered across Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Michigan and now South Dakota. Sioux Falls has something no other Innovative location

has, however, and that is a second building on West Russell Street where Innovative offers branded solutions. If it can display a logo—such as T-shirts, sweatshirts, signage— Innovative can provide it.

“We offer creativity with embroidering products or if you want Yetis, you want wine glasses, you want to hand out spatulas,” said Jerry Sjoberg, the Dakota sales director.

Innovative currently employs about 350 people in its 13 offices with 51 of those working locally.

In every community, Innovative has taken an active part in civic engagements and volunteer events. That mirrors Brown & Saenger, which became a founding member of the local Chamber of Commerce in 1907.

In the Twin Cities, Innovative supports the InSports Foundation, which the Smiths’ son, Max, began as a college project. Its goal is to help involve children and teenagers in athletics at all levels, removing the barriers that can come with economic and other challenges.

“Our mantra is to get kids in the game,” Sjoberg said. “No kid should be left behind. Every kid should have the opportunity to experience things. … Our InSports Foundation generates a lot of money that we donate back to communities we serve.”

In Sioux Falls, partnerships have been formed with Great Life Golf & Fitness and Great Life Cares, and Innovative is involved with the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center. It has brought kids onto the Sioux Falls Storm indoor football field

Jerry Sjoberg and Joel Eisland lead the Sioux Falls location of Innovative Office Solutions. Formerly known in Sioux Falls as Brown & Saenger, the company’s ties to this community date back to 1889.

to allow them to play, and it does the same with other sports teams in the city.

Innovative participates in an incentive program with the Boys and Girls Club of Sioux Falls and the Sioux Falls School District. When students correct behavioral issues, volunteers with Innovative reward them with a trip to Great Shots, often giving many of them the chance to try something new.

The ability to continue a strong connection with Sioux Falls suited the former Brown & Saenger staff perfectly, Eisland said.

“We were pleased when we were acquired in 2018, and the entire staff of Brown & Saenger was hired and kept on,” he said. “We too love to be involved with community--the Community Blood Bank and volunteer opportunities like Supply One Student backpacks, drives, those things help employees get involved and stay involved. Our company inspires people by what they do and who they do it with.”

North Risk Partners McKinneyOlson Insurance

When your firm carries the distinction of being a founding member of the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce, you’re not going to pair up with a business that doesn’t share your values.

“Chamber membership and community connections was one of the things that was very important to (us) when we were looking at potential partners to partner up with,” said Amy Olson-Miller, former co-owner of McKinneyOlson Insurance and now risk advisor and partner-president of North Risk Partners’ West Division.

The “us” Olson-Miller referred to includes former McKinneyOlson partner, Steve Tripp, who now also is a partner, risk advisor and vice president of sales for North Risk. The firm will be known as North Risk Partners

McKinneyOlson Insurance for a couple of years before transitioning solely to the new name.

North Risk is headquartered in the Twin Cities suburb of Plymouth, Minnesota. It has about 475 employees in more than 30 offices in Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska and now South Dakota. The Sioux Falls office has 29 employees, its largest number ever, Olson-Miller said.

McKinneyOlson began in 2008 when McKinney & Allen and The Olson Group joined forces. Olson-Miller’s father, James Olson, had opened his insurance agency in Sioux Falls in 1980, while McKinney & Allen was founded in Sioux Falls in the late 1800s.

Olson-Miller joined The Olson Group in 1993. When she merged with McKinney & Allen 16 years ago, it combined two agencies with common cultures and goals.

“We were both very community-oriented agencies with locations that go back in Sioux Falls for quite a while,” she said. “At the time it was planning for the future. While we were very similar in culture, we had very different books of business. On the Olson side it was heavy construction and restaurants. McKinney & Allen was more nonprofits and schools and general insurance. Overall, it was a good balance to spread the risk and the type of exposures we had.”

McKinneyOlson acquired The Insurance Connection in 2019 and also has an office in Brandon. North Risk, one of the largest independent insurance brokers and risk advisory firms in the Midwest, previously had an office in Sioux Falls that consolidated into the McKinneyOlson office on South Lyncrest Place when the acquisition was announced in March.

Insurance agencies are in the business of protecting people and their assets and lives, Olson-Miller said. About 60 percent of McKinneyOlson’s clients were businesses with 40 percent personal. An employee-benefits division offers personal health and life insurance as well as group health and life.

With changes in technology and the accompanying risks, the insurance world is changing rapidly. Mergers and acquisitions take place almost daily, and Olson-Miller and Tripp were being approached by large national carriers interested in adding McKinneyOlson to their portfolio. The partners made the decision they wanted to remain as local as possible, knowing it would be a better fit.

“Our whole reason for actually looking to even join a larger firm was strictly for our clients and as far as additional resources we could offer like loss-control services, safety-control services and more access to a larger market,”

Olson-Miller said. “This is the best of both worlds. We still have the local feel, but we have the resources of a larger agency.”

Days after the acquisition, McKinneyOlson’s staff joined North Risk employees in a week of service in late April. It encouraged staff to volunteer across the region. The firm also allows up to 24 hours of volunteer time off annually.

“They encourage everyone to utilize every hour of that plus more,” Olson-Miller said.

With McKinneyOlson’s decades-long ties to the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce, it was essential that it partner up with a firm that understood the community values it supports and its volunteer efforts.

“We’ve got a lot of our risk advisors that are involved in different associations like the Home Builders Association and the contractors association,” Olson-Miller said. “A number of our risk advisors serve on boards of directors for various organizations around Sioux Falls.

Each North Risk office has an annual budget set aside to support community activities. Individual offices, such as those in Sioux Falls and Rapid City, will decide where to spend the dollars, Olson-Miller said.

But offices in North Risk’s footprint offer chambers of commerce dedicated support.

“When I got my breakdown of potential expenses, there’s a chart of expenses and categories,” Olson-Miller said. “One of the categories is specifically chambers of commerce. I’ve got to believe if one of the 10 categories is the Chamber, then everybody’s utilizing it.”

As a founding member of the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce, McKinneyOlson Insurance made community connections a priority when selecting to merge with North Risk Partners late last year. Amy Olson-Miller (below) leads the Sioux Falls location for the Twin Cities-based company.

Advocating for you at the federal level

Mitch Rave Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce

...the Chamber’s public policy team works to maintain open lines of communication with South Dakota’s federal delegation.

To learn more about the Chamber’s advocacy for business, visit siouxfallschamber.com

The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce advocates for pro-business policies at every level of government, which includes the federal level. It may seem like what happens in Washington D.C. is far removed from Sioux Falls, but the decisions made and issues raised there have a very real impact on our businesses. That’s why the Chamber’s public policy team works to maintain open lines of communication with South Dakota’s federal delegation.

In May, a small group representing the Chamber made a trip to D.C. to visit with our elected leaders and partners in the nation’s capitol. The team consisted of Scott Lawrence and Miles Beacom, the Chair and Chair-elect, respectively, of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, and Chamber staff members Jeff Griffin (president & CEO), Mike Lynch (Forward Sioux Falls), Mitch Rave and Aaron Vlasman (public policy team).

In a meeting with our partners at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, we discussed workforce challenges we are experiencing in South Dakota, including affordable childcare. We also discussed the U.S. Chamber’s current lawsuit against the Federal Trade Commission due to its recent rule that repeals non-compete agreements. (See page 38 of this issue or the June issue of Chamber News for more information on that topic.)

One of the topics of conversations with Senators John Thune and Mike Rounds and Congressman Dusty Johnson was the recently passed FAA funding bills, which passed both the House and Senate just prior to our visit. This legislation provides critical funding to support all our South Dakota airports. The Sioux Falls Regional Airport will benefit by continuing to increase passenger capacity and flight options in and out of Sioux Falls with funding made available by this act.

Another key discussion point was the continued advancement of the technology and cyber industries in South Dakota. Partnerships with federal agencies are crucial to the mission of Dakota State University and the DARC (Dakota State University Applied Research Corporation), including future use of the secure facility being built in Sioux Falls. Our federal delegation has, and continues to, play a pivotal role in the credentialing process for both institutions. With these credentials, we will be able to continue educating and creating careers for South Dakota students.

Continued communication with South Dakota’s elected officials is an important piece of how your Chamber fulfills our commitment to advocate on your behalf. If there are ever any issues that you or your business need assistance with, please use the Chamber as a resource when reaching out to your elected officials at all levels of government.

Chamber’s Annual Meeting is Oct. 15

The Greater Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce will hold its 118th Annual Meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024 at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center.

The Chamber’s Annual Meeting launches the one-year term of the incoming chair, Miles Beacom, PREMIER Bankcard. Beacom will take over the Chamber’s top volunteer position Oct. 1, following 2023-24 Chair of the Board Scott Lawrence, Lawrence & Schiller, Inc. Also at the meeting, the Chamber will share the priorities for the upcoming year and acknowledge the contributions of retiring directors.

The featured guest for the Annual Meeting will be announced in mid-July and tickets will be available by the end of that same month. Dana Dykhouse, First PREMIER Bank, and Alexis Mahlen, Lloyd Companies, are serving as event co-chairs.

Save the Date

Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce 118th Annual Meeting

Tuesday, October 15 Denny Sanford PREMIER Center

Ag Appreciation Day to be held Aug. 7

The 41st annual Ag Appreciation Day will be held in conjunction with the Sioux Empire Fair on Wednesday, Aug. 7. Farmers and ranchers from around the region are invited to visit the fair and enjoy a free lunch. The event is organized by the Agribusiness Division of the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce.

Ag Appreciation Day celebrates the role area farmers and ranchers play in everyone’s personal and professional lives, and is an opportunity to showcase an industry that plays a vital role in the local, state and national economies. This year, it is being led by Event Chair Nolan Clarke, Plains Commerce Bank, and Event Co-chair Angel Kasper, First PREMIER Bank.

Lunch will consist of pork sandwiches, chips and drinks. The pork is sponsored by Smithfield Foods and the onsite smoking is provided by Minnehaha County Pork Producers. Organizers expect to serve lunch to more than 3,000 local farmers. More than 125 area businesses support the event financially and more than 300 volunteers participate in serving the meal.

In addition to the meal, there will be live entertainment from Mogen’s Heroes, plus special guest appearances by Mayor Paul TenHaken and other elected officials.

Free gate admission until 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 7 is made possible by Touchstone Energy Cooperatives.

Ag Appreciation Day

Wednesday, August 7

Summit to focus on best practices in workforce development

The Sioux Falls Development Foundation will host an opportunity for the business community to strategize and energize workforce development.

The WIN in Workforce Summit will be held Tuesday, September 24, from 9 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. at the Sioux Falls Convention Center. HR professionals and leaders at all levels of an organization will gain valuable insights and practical strategies and will have the chance to connect with industry leaders, innovators and other professionals facing similar challenges.

The event will kick off with an inspirational message from former Indianapolis Colts Superbowl champion, Ben Utecht, as he shares his story and lessons from a career-ending brain injury, and how businesses can build cultures of excellence and resilience.

Additional sessions include panel discussions ranging from topics like The Empathy

Tuesday, September 24 Sioux Falls Convention Center

Advantage, The Hybrid Work Revolution, The Top Three Musts for Putting the Right People in the Right Seats, Unveiling Generative AI and more.

The registration fee is $89 and includes a networking lunch. SHRM members will be eligible for up to nine Personal Development Credits for attending the 2024 WIN in Workforce Summit. Find more information and register online at wininworkforce.com.

Vincent Jones / Shareholder

Chamber task force supports military interests

By Mike Lynch

By resolution in 2007, the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce launched the Military Task Force to advocate for the future of Joe Foss Field, the South Dakota Air National Guard and other military units in the Sioux Falls area.

The Task Force centers its work to achieve its mission around four objectives:

• To educate the Sioux Falls’ community about the military presence in Sioux Falls, informing the community of the economic impact and leadership role of the local military.

• To recruit community leaders and community support to influence the federal government to continue the present military missions in Sioux Falls.

• To recruit community leaders and community support to replace military missions when they are discontinued with new and perhaps upgraded military missions.

• To provide community support to military personal and their families and promote the economic and leadership value that the military provides in Sioux Falls.

Chaired by (Ret.) Gen. R.J. Clifft and (Ret.) Gen. Ron Mielke, the Task Force stays well connected with the congressional delegation, state leadership, South Dakota Air National Guard leadership, the Sioux Falls Airport Authority, National Air Force and Air National Guard leadership.

Also serving on the Task Force are the chairs of the board of directors for both the Chamber and Development Foundation, as well as their respective presidents/CEOs, chair of the Forward Sioux Falls Joint Venture Management Committee, as well as at-large members. Ex-officio members include the mayor of Sioux Falls, the chair of the Minnehaha County Commission, the chair of the Sioux Falls Regional Airport Authority, state directors for South Dakota’s U.S. senators and representative in the House of Representatives and the Chamber’s chair of the Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.

Over the years, the Task Force has held strategy sessions and presentations with elected officials and community leaders to advocate for F-35 basing, facilitated work to secure the South Dakota Army National Guard Readiness Center and safe placement of building projects in and around flight patterns for the Air Guard.

The economic impact from the military units in the Sioux Falls area is profound, approaching $84 million for the Air Guard in FY 2023, which includes more than 1,100 personnel at Joe Foss Field in support of the F-16C Block 40 aircraft.

The Chamber will continue to strongly support our military as the positive effect on the business community remains strong.

Members of the Chamber’s Military Task Force posed for a photo following a recent meeting held at the SD Air National Guard base.

Sioux Falls to host U.S. Olympic curling team trials

The U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Men’s and Women’s Curling, as well as the U.S. Paralympic Team Trials, are coming to Sioux Falls in November 2025.

The Sioux Falls Sports Authority made the official announcement, along with USA Curling CEO Dean Gemmell, at a press con ference in May. The Trials will be held at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center Nov. 7-16, 2025 and will feature practice rounds, round-robin play and a final playoff. The winners will go on to represent Team USA at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“The people of Sioux Falls have a proven track record of turning out for major sporting events and entertainment, and we’re thrilled to bring an Olympic Trials here,” said Thomas Lee, president of the Sioux Falls Sports Authority. “We know people will love the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, but we also can’t wait to show visitors from around the country everything else our city has to offer.”

“The city of Sioux Falls will be a great partner as we promote these Olympic Trials, and we are confident the setting will produce a first-class experience for competitors and fans alike,” said

Gemmell. “We will also work closely with the members of the Sioux Falls Curling Club to not only deliver a great event but help fuel their drive towards a dedicated ice facility.”

Curling interest has significantly grown in Sioux Falls over the last decade with the establishment of the Sioux Falls Curling Club. The Sioux Falls Curling Club promotes and introduces the sport to the greater Sioux Falls area.

“We are elated to see our city selected to host this prestigious event,” said Dustin Hansen, president of Sioux Falls Curling. “This will showcase the growing interest in curling within our community and provide an incredible opportunity to inspire the next generation of curlers. We’re eager to welcome athletes, fans, and enthusiasts alike to experience the excitement of curling in Sioux Falls.”

Ticket information for the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Men’s and Women’s Curling, and the U.S. Paralympic Team Trials, will be announced later. For more information and updates, visit usacurling.org or sfsportsauthority.org.

Photo courtesy USA Curling

Breaking through the advertising clutter Midco’s Kim Burma talks reaching your target audience

Every business deserves to be seen and heard, but in the ever-evolving landscape of advertising, standing out in a crowded market is no easy feat.

Kim Burma, an experienced advertising account executive at Midco, delves into how your business can break through the noise and connect with your audience.

“Businesses today face significant challenges when it comes to advertising effectively. Identifying the right target audience, managing budgets, selecting appropriate media channels and crafting a compelling message – all are common hurdles that can make the advertising journey feel daunting and overwhelming,” said Burma.

As a business leader, you know that effective advertising can be the key to driving growth and reaching new customers. But with so many options available, it can be hard to determine the best strategy for your brand or the best place to start on your own. That’s where a Midco advertising expert can come in.

“Our advertising account executives understand these challenges and are there to guide you,” said Burma. “We are more than salespeople. We are advisors who help you navigate the complexities of advertising and achieve your marketing goals.”

Guiding you to success

Beginning the advertising journey or switching to a new ad partner can be a stressful experience, so much so that it’s hard to take the jump.

“Many businesses worry about the effectiveness of their campaigns and potential return on investment,” explained Burma. “Midco addresses these concerns by working closely with you to understand your business, goals and concerns.”

Clients can expect complete transparency and open communication from the Midco team, ensuring you feel informed and confident throughout the process.

“We know advertising is a substantial investment,” said Burma, “which is why we offer a range of innovative advertising options designed to elevate your brand and amplify your message.”

Creative production, placements, targeting and reporting –Midco has full-service solutions for every business size and budget. The placement options go beyond traditional TV to include paid search, paid social, clickable display ads, streaming audio, and video ads that run on websites, YouTube and streaming apps.

“We don’t simply take your money and see how an ad campaign goes,” said Burma. “We emphasize the importance of a strategic advertising approach, advising clients to consider their target demographics to maximize the effectiveness of their campaigns.”

Overcoming common challenges together

Audience: Each business has a unique target audience, and understanding who they are is crucial for effective advertising. Once identified, the Midco team can direct your advertising efforts at the right demographic.

Budget: Cost constraints are another concern that Midco addresses by offering multiple advertising packages tailored to different budgets – so even the smallest businesses can benefit.

Platform: With a plethora of ways to reach customers, how does a business choose the right platform? Midco simplifies this with cross-channel advertising, which uses multiple channels – digital, social media, traditional TV and more – to reach your audience.

Production: For businesses who need help with creative assets, Midco’s award-winning production team can assist in developing high-quality commercials and campaign components that align with your brand, offerings and ad strategy.

Taking the first step

Starting with Midco is a straightforward process. The first step is scheduling an initial consultation.

“During this meeting, we examine your advertising objectives, expectations and budget. Based on that discussion, our team develops a customized proposal outlining recommended channels, timelines and pricing,” explained Burma.

Clients then review the proposal, ask any questions and provide feedback. This thorough and collaborative process ensures the final advertising strategy aligns with your vision and goals.

“We continue to communicate with clients regularly, and they can access our very intuitive analytics dashboard, which provides daily updates on campaign performance. Campaigns can be adjusted as needed to maximize their effectiveness,” Burma explained.

Investing in your future

“For anyone hesitant about advertising, it’s important to understand that advertising is not just an expense, it’s an investment in your business’s future!” said Burma.

You don’t have to start large – even a modest campaign can have a big impact. And, with an experienced advertising expert like Midco, you have a trusted partner alongside you to build your brand, drive business growth and foster customer loyalty.

Contact Midco today at Midco.com/Consult to start your journey toward successful advertising.

No noncompetes… no problem

On April 23, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced the issuance of its final rule prohibiting many employers throughout the United States from entering into noncompete agreements with their employees. The rule is effective retroactively, and employers covered by the new FTC rule are required to invalidate existing noncompete agreements previously signed by employees, unless an exception applies. The new rule is scheduled to become effective on Sept. 4, 2024.

Employers and business owners should keep in mind that the FTC’s new rule does not prohibit enforcement of noncompete agreements in all situations. There are several types of employers that are exempt from the new FTC rule, such as banks and certain nonprofit entities. An existing noncompete agreement signed by a person who meets the definition of a senior executive remains enforceable under the new FTC rule. Also, a noncompete agreement between a buyer and a seller of a business or business assets remains enforceable under the new rule, so long as the agreement is entered into as part of a bona fide sale of a business entity, the person’s ownership interest in the business entity, or substantially all of a business entity’s operating assets.

There is ongoing litigation relating to whether the FTC has the authority to enact its new rule, and it’s possible that a court might take steps to preserve the status quo and halt enforcement of the new rule. Even so, there are other recent developments under state and federal law which have further challenged the enforceability of noncompete agreements. It’s no surprise that under the current legal environment, many employers are reluctant to sign new noncompete agreements with their employees. However, even in this uncertain legal environment, there are steps employers can take to reduce the risk of unfair competition.

Employers rely on restrictions in employment agreements for reasons that go beyond preventing employees from leaving to work for a competitor. Employees often have access to sensitive business information and intellectual property such as trade secrets, pricing information, client lists, and marketing and financial information. Employers need not simply rely on using noncompete agreements to protect against competitors gaining an unfair advantage by poaching employees and using them to access confidential information. Employers may continue to protect valuable information with non-disclosure agreements (NDA) and nonsolicitation agreements, among other things.

A well-crafted NDA used in an employment context will clearly define the categories of proprietary information that are considered confidential, set forth restrictions and practices relating to the disclosure of confidential information while on the job, and describe remedies in the event of a breach. NDAs must be carefully tailored to protect the legitimate needs of the employer, since an NDA that is drafted too broadly could be deemed to be a “de facto non-compete clause” and thus unenforceable under the new FTC rule. NDAs must also avoid violating employment laws that protect the rights of employees to report illegal activities and to engage in protected labor practices. Businesses should remain proactive and work with legal counsel to ensure that NDAs are drafted properly and signed at the outset of employment of new personnel.

Employers often require employees to sign nonsolicitation agreements which restrict ex-employees from soliciting customers of the employer. A well-crafted nonsolicitation agreement can effectively protect an employer against unfair competition while avoiding many of the legal challenges and enforceability issues relating to noncompete agreements. Under South Dakota law, nonsolicitation agreements signed by employees are enforceable so long as the restrictions are applicable within a specified area and during a period not exceeding two years from the date of termination of the agreement, and provided that the employer continues to carry on a like business within the specified area.

Although the impact of the new FTC rule remains uncertain at this time, employers should remain proactive and focused on steps that can be taken to protect their businesses. Employers which have previously used noncompete agreements to safeguard valuable information and protect against unfair competition may consider whether NDAs and nonsolicitation agreements could fulfill a similar role. Like all employment agreements, however, NDAs and nonsolicitation agreements must be narrowly tailored to the legitimate interests of the employer and carefully drafted by legal counsel to ensure that the agreements comply with state and federal law.

Mike Srstka is an associate attorney at Davenport Evans. His practice covers a variety of business transactions, including real estate transactions, purchases and sales of businesses and business assets, matters related to limited liability companies and other corporate entities, transferring or domesticating businesses into South Dakota from other states, and leasing and financing arrangements. His practice also covers a variety of employment law issues.

Mike Srstka Davenport Evans

Designing for all users

By Ivy Cirillo, Pathways to Inclusive & Equitable Workplaces

With more organizations committed to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in their workplaces, it’s crucial to extend efforts beyond just meeting the standard requirements for compliance. While many businesses focus on diversity and equity, true inclusion can get left behind, especially for those whose age, size, ability or disability require different supports.

Most organizations are good at adhering to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) legal requirements and many are improving at providing “reasonable accommodations.” But there’s so much more that can be done to ensure accessibility and inclusion for everyone. It’s important to take a proactive approach not just for your employees, but for your customers too. That is where Universal Design comes into play. Universal Design is the design and composition of an environment so that it can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people, regardless of their age, size, ability or disability.

Many organizations think that meeting accommodation requests is enough. However, this reactive measure can single people out,

often putting the burden on them to make the request and educate others about their needs. This can leave them feeling uncomfortable and stigmatized. Waiting for accommodation can also delay processes and create a negative employee or customer experience.

By designing with everyone in mind from the beginning, organizations can remove these challenges and prevent exclusion. So, what does this proactive approach look like?

The 7 principles of Universal Design

1. Equitable use: The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities. For example, power doors with sensors at entrances are convenient for all users.

2. Flexibility in use: The design accommodates a wide range of preferences and abilities. For example, scissors designed for both right- and left-handed users.

3. Simple and intuitive use: The design is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills or current concentration level. For example, universal symbols for elevators, restrooms and transportation.

4. Perceptible information: The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities. For example, tactile indicators on keyboards or alternative text for images.

5. Tolerance for error: The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions. For example, a double-cut car key that fits into a recessed keyhole in multiple orientations.

6. Low physical effort: The design can be used efficiently and comfortably with a minimum of fatigue. For example, ramps to buildings and door handles that do not require grip strength to open are accessible to everyone.

7. Size and space for approach and use: Appropriate size and space are provided for approach, reach, manipulation and use regardless of the user’s body size, posture or mobility. For example, adjustable-height service counters and automated sinks.

As organizations strive to advance their inclusion efforts, it’s essential to move beyond reactive accommodations and embrace universal design principles. By intentionally integrating accessibility into your workplace environment, you not only meet legal requirements but also create a culture of inclusion and innovation that benefits everyone.

Let’s challenge ourselves to create organizations where accessibility is a given, not an afterthought. Because everyone deserves equal access and opportunity.

Ribbon Cuttings

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

Avel eCare

4510 N . Lewis Ave . avelecare.com

Avel eCare was one of the first telemedicine care providers in the nation to offer provider-toprovider services via telemedicine. Since 1993, Avel physicians and clinicians have delivered exceptional virtual care impacting millions of patients in rural and underserved communities across the U.S. L to R: Mona Schafer, Katlin Johnson, David Johnson, Doug Duskin (CEO), Jennifer Hoesing, Dr. Ron Place and Jay Weems.

Avera GI Hospital

6100 S Louise Ave avera.org

Avera broke ground on a new medical office building at the Avera on Louise health campus. The new building will focus on digestive health services. L to R: Dr. Christopher Hurley, Jim Dover (president/CEO), Scott Lawrence, Sister Mary Kay Panowicz, Mayor Paul TenHaken, Dr. Ronald Place (regional president and CEO), Tom Biegler, Dave Flicek, Julie Lautt and Ryan Boschee.

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire

6221 W . Maple St . bgcsiouxempire.org

A new BGCSE club at McGovern Middle School will provide new services and opportunities for students and their families after school, on nonschool days and weekdays during the summer months. L to R: Steve Hildebrand, Kent Cutler, Scott Lawrence, Jeff Eckhoff, Loren Boyens, Stacy Jones (CEO), Tim Koehler, Carly Reiter and Dr. Jane Stavem.

Dakota State University

3001 N Westport Ave dsu-arc.org

Dakota State University broke ground on the Applied Research Lab in Sioux Falls. It will be an expansion of the physical facilities that house DSU’s cyber-research initiative and will create workforce and economic development opportunities. L to R: Bill Gassen, Bob Mundt, Andrea Thompson, Dr. José-Marie Griffiths (president), Scott Lawrence, Miles Beacom and T. Denny Sanford.

Dvorak Law Group, LLC

110 S Phillips Ave , Suite 201 dvoraklawgroup.com

Dvorak Law Group, LLC is a full-service business law firm that assists in navigating all facets of corporate law, employment law, estate planning, civil litigation and real estate law, using a collaborative, simplified and personalized approach. L to R: Zach Petersen, Mallory Kloucek, Jay Soukup, Jeff Blumel (managing partner), Seth Moen (partner/ lead attorney), Matt Paulson, Andrea Carstensen and Kalen Peterson.

Epiphany Modern Whole Health

1716 S Marion Road epiphanywholehealth.com

Epiphany Modern Whole Health offers a comprehensive program to improve brain health, address cognitive challenges stemming from various conditions, prevent dementia and avert any unnecessary progression of cognitive decline. L to R: Ella DeRosier, Mallory Kloucek, Scott Lawrence, Dr. Emily Blegen (owner), Joe DeRosier, Lynda Billars, Cullen DeRosier, Sandy Case and Dr. Kate Andal.

New Member

Ribbon Cuttings

Graco Inc.

3501 N 4th Ave

graco.com

Graco Inc. designs, manufactures and markets premium equipment to move, measure, control, dispense and spray a wide variety of fluid and powder materials. Their recent expansion of 100,000 square feet of new space will allow for a new business line to be brought in, as well as future growth. L to R: Jennifer Hoesing, Angie Wordell, Mark Sheahan (president/CEO), Megan Jung, Melissa Dellman and Sue Christensen.

Great Plains Zoo

805 S . Kiwanis Ave . greatzoo.org

A new splash pad at The Great Plains Zoo brings additional entertainment for young visitors and encourages longer stays during the summer months. The expansion includes an enlarged restroom facility with family changing rooms, adult-sized change tables, and a full body dryer. L to R: Audrey Otto-Pepper, Laycee Kluin, Don Kearney, Becky Dewitz (CEO), Sheila Hoff, Matt Paulson, Jeanelle Lust and Jennifer Hoesing.

For us, serving this community doesn’t stop at supplying energy. It’s so much bigger. That’s why we buy locally. That’s why we invest here. That’s why we put in the work to make your energy safer, more reliable and affordable. Energy you can trust to keep your home warm all winter and bright all summer long. We give back to this community like we live here. Because we do. Visit xcelenergy.com to learn more.

Ribbon Cuttings

Integrated Care and Consultation

5100 E Rosa Parks Place yourintegratedcare.com

Integrated Care and Consultation LLC addresses both the mind and body in mental health treatment. They provide holistic services such as integrative health coaching and advanced treatment modalities. L to R: Carol Woltjer, Jennifer Hoesing, Lee Lohff, Krystal Lohff (director), Laycee Kluin, Dr. Ronald Place and Jennifer Pipitone.

IRA Financial

5109 S . Broadband Lane irafinancial.com

IRA Financial Trust provides self-directed IRA financial services, offering individuals alternative investment options beyond the traditional routes. They are the world’s leader in selfdirected IRA management, serving over 13,000 clients. L to R: Samantha Scholten, Mike Steyle, Adam Bergman (founder), Tyler Northrup (CEO), Darci Hustrulid, Amy Stockberger, Jay Soukup, Drew Cosand and Emily Thompson.

KingDome Builders

27081 Sundowner Ave , Tea, SD brooksconstructionservices.com/kingdomes

KingDome Builders makes disaster resistant housing with concrete domes, the most versatile and complete structure on the market. Dome homes are safe and secure, efficient, low maintenance and customizable. L to R: Jeni Brooks, Jay Soukup, Gwyn Stack, Ray Brooks (manager), James Gaspar and Cindi Johnson.

Kraken Sales Funnels

krakensalesfunnels.com

Kraken Sales Funnels is a full-service marketing agency offering cutting-edge solutions to businesses of all sizes. They provide clients with a sustainable, effective marketing infrastructure so that the client can focus on growing their business. L to R: Cindi Johnson, Tamien Dysart, Megan Jung, Jill Milani (business development) Lynda Billars, Cole Robbins and Chad Stephens.

Les Schwab Tire Center

5800 E . Arrowhead Parkway lesschwab.com

Les Schwab Tire Center provides world class customer service to the community. They offer services such as tires, brakes, suspension, alignments and oil changes all backed by the best FREE warranty in the nation. L to R: Jacob Schartung, Miles Beacom, Cameron Fahl (manager), Trevor Mcdonald (assistant manager), Christy Vastenhout and Jay Soukup.

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Lewis Drug

5830 E Madison St lewisdrug.com

The newest Lewis Drug location joins over 60 others in South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota, allowing Lewis Drug to continue to provide a seamless shopping experience with top-notch services and a diverse selection of items. L to R: Jackie Thomas, Tammy Beintema, Bob Meyer, Nikki Griffin, Mark Griffin (president/CEO), Lynda Billars, Ally Brandner, Vicki Stewart and Spencer Ballieu.

McCrossan Boys Ranch Track

47135 260th St

mccrossan.org

McCrossan Boys Ranch broke ground on a track and field area. The 400-meter, eight-lane rubberized track and recreational field for soccer and other sports will allow the McCrossan Wranglers to host meets and events. L to R: Steve Wahl, Clark Meyer, Christy Vastenhout, Jason Hubers, Ethan (McCrossan resident), Brian Roegiers (executive director), Bryan Ingalls, Miles Beacom, Jim Wiederrich and Jon Bour.

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Midco

101 S Reid St midco.com

Founded in 1931, Midco services more than 1 million homes and businesses in more than 400 communities with 1,900 team members across five states. They are excited to return to their headquarters to downtown Sioux Falls with their new location. L to R: Jeannie Thurston, Alissa Sendelbach, Jennifer Hoesing, Kameron Nelson, Tom McAdaragh (president), Ben Dold (COO), Matt Paulson and Scott Anderson.

OsteoStrong Sioux Falls East

3620 S . Southeastern Ave . osteostrong.me

OsteoStrong focuses on the skeletal system to improve your overall health. They will work to help you experience improved bone density, muscular strength, balance and overall health. L to R: Allison Boyd, Megan Jung, Kathy Voss (owner), Winston Williams and Cindi Johnson.

Pomegranate Market

350 N Reid Place pomegranatemarkets.com

Pomegranate Market is expanding to the Cherapa Place development. The grocery retailer will focus on natural and organic foods and offer office catering. L to R: Dustin Pratt, John Barker, Joe Batcheller, Anne Haber, Jeff Scherschligt, Mayor Paul TenHaken, Gabe Messler (owner), Craig Snyder (owner), Jonah Snyder (owner) and Kent Cutler.

Robins Kaplan LLP

150 E . 4th Place, Suite 704 robinskaplan.com

Robins Kaplan LLP specializes in litigation in areas of business and estate/trust disputes, personal injury and medical malpractice claims, and more. Robins Kaplan LLP recently moved downtown to the Steel District. L to R: Erica Ramsey, Laycee Kluin, Matt Paulson, Anthony Froio (managing partner), Jay Soukup, Brendan V. Johnson (managing partner), Brian Sittig and Timothy Billion.

Sioux Falls City Football Club

6200 S . Cliff Ave . siouxfallscityfc.com

Sioux Falls City Football Club is a pre-professional women’s soccer team with the mission to empower women on and off the pitch. They are elevating the game of soccer, challenging and changing what has been “normal” for women in sports, and providing role models for girls and boys. L to R: Joel Kaskinen, Jennifer Hoesing, Emily Thomas (owner), Sherri Meyers (CEO), Nichelle Lund and Eric Thomas.

New Member

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Sioux Valley Optimist Club siouxvalleyoptimistclub.com

The Sioux Valley Optimist Club is a long-standing service club that focuses on creating a more optimistic future for local youth. Through both monetary donations and volunteer efforts, the club supports programs throughout the Sioux Falls area with youth-first directives. L to R: April Schulte, Jordan Huisman, Kara Peterson, Danielle McGrath (president), Cindi Johnson, Vicki Stewart and Dave Martin.

The Sampson House

522 N . Main Ave ., Suite 100 thesampsonhouse.com

The Sampson House is a digital agency specializing in strategy and content creation. Their passion for detail and drive for excellence manifests through elevated brand identities, strategic campaigns, seamless website design and highly curated content marketing. L to R: Andrea Carstensen, April Meyerink, Valerie Sampson (CEO/creative director), Jeff Sampson, Matt Paulson, Laycee Kluin and Kerry McDonald.

New Member

Sunrise Banks

5105 S Crossing Place, Suite 1 sunrisebanks.com

Sunrise Banks is a socially responsible community bank focused on creating financial empowerment for all. L to R: Dan Moline, Tyler Seydel, Jennifer Hoesing, Damon Sehr (market president), David Reiling (CEO/ president), Mike Porcello, Ryan Punt, Bryan Toft, Catherine Higgins Whiteside and Elsie Smith.

VanLaecken Orthodontics

1518 E . 69th St . vanlaeckenortho.com

VanLaecken Orthodontics provides a customized treatment plan that not only straightens teeth, but engineers facial structure and profile, taking into account how a smile will develop over a lifetime. L to R: Noreen O’Hara, Ann Boerger, Dr. Rob VanLaecken (owner), Dr. Nate VanLaecken (owner), Dr. Ryan VanLaecken (owner), Nicole Garber, Jennifer Hoesing, April Schulte and Brianna Viereck.

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