June 2024 Chamber News

South Dakota companies find new opportunities in international trade

Chamber News Going Global

New federal rule may impact employment contracts

Veterans Community Project shatters campaign goal

Going Global

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

2023-24 Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce leadership

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chair Scott Lawrence Lawrence & Schiller, Inc.

Chair-Elect Miles Beacom

PREMIER Bankcard

Vice Chair

Tamien Dysart

Think 3D Solutions

Treasurer Dr. José-Marie Griffiths

Dakota State

Immediate

Dr. Ronald Place

Ryan Punt SDN Communications

EX-OFFICIO

Kyle Groos

Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools

Dean Karsky

Minnehaha County Commission

Tiffani Landeen

Lincoln County Commission

Dr. Jane Stavem

Sioux Falls Public School System

Mayor Paul TenHaken

City of Sioux Falls

CHAMBER STAFF Jeff Griffin

The Chamber’s Spring Membership Drive kicked off in late April. Volunteers engaged in a friendly competition to recruit the most new members to the Chamber during the music-themed Drive.

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

Message from the Chair

Construction season is officially in full swing in South Dakota. In Sioux Falls and surrounding communities, orange cones in the road and new buildings going up are a common sight. It is a sign of continued growth and economic vibrancy – something your Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce works hard to foster!

A healthy community is one reason the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce is so diligent about advocating on behalf of businesses. Recently, a delegation from the Chamber made a trip to Washington D.C. While there, we met with our South Dakota Senators and Congressman to discuss matters that are relevant and important to Sioux Falls. You might see the fruits of that trip soon, or it may take years. That is the nature of community advocacy.

A little over a year ago, Forward Sioux Falls agreed to fund and support the launch of South Dakota Trade, which assists local businesses that engage in international trade. It is exciting to see that investment already bearing fruit. In this issue, you can read about the impact of international trade on our local economy and the opportunities available. Who knows…maybe you’ll even consider exporting as a new possibility for your company.

At the top of the list of ways we can positively impact tomorrow through our choices today is our workforce, particularly the youngest workers. The Chamber’s Young Professionals Network will host an event this month that supports our community talent attraction and retention efforts. If your company has summer interns or new employees that recently moved here, I encourage you to have them attend the Intro Sioux Falls event on June 20. It showcases various aspects of our community and helps new residents feel comfortable here. The goal is that by helping them connect, they will choose to stay and be a part of our vibrant workforce permanently. More information can be found at siouxfallsypn.com.

As always, the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce works every day to be strong advocates for business in Sioux Falls and the surrounding area. Now nearly nine months into my term as chair, I have learned so much about all the Chamber does, and it is truly impressive. It really proves, that Working in Concert, we all contribute to making Sioux Falls the best place to live and work.

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.

Founding Members

AAA South Dakota

Insurance & Benefits

AAA.com

Member since 1933

Augustana University Education-Post Secondary augie.edu

Member since 1918

Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center Hospitals avera.org

Member since 1911

Boyce Law Firm, L.L.P. Attorneys boycelaw.com

Member since 1907

Cadwell Sanford Deibert & Garry LLP Attorneys cadlaw.com

Member since 1907

Davenport, Evans, Hurwitz & Smith, LLP Attorneys dehs.com

Member since 1939

Electric Construction Company Electricians & Electrical Contractors eccsfsd.com

Member since 1907

Gage Brothers Concrete gagebrothers.com

Member since 1918

Girton Adams Company Heating & Cooling girtonadams.com

Member since 1908

Journey Group Companies Contractors journeyconstruction.com

Member since 1907

Kairos University Education-Post Secondary kairos.edu

Member since 1907

North Risk Partners Insurance & Benefits

northriskpartners.com

Member since 1907

Prairie Farms Food Production/Distribution prairiefarms.com

Member since 1917

Results Townsquare MEDIA

Television, Radio & Outdoor townsquaresiouxfalls.com

Member since 1926

Sanford Health Hospitals sanfordhealth.org Member since 1907

Smithfield Foods Food Production/Distribution smithfieldfoods.com Member since 1909

TSP, Inc. Architecture teamtsp.com Member since 1930

University of Sioux Falls Education-Post Secondary usiouxfalls.edu Member since 1907

30 years

IMKO Workforce Solutions Employment Agency imko.com

Midwest Communications Television, Radio & Outdoor keloam.com

St. Francis House Associate Member stfrancishouse.com

WNAX AM/FM Radio Associate Member wnax.com

10 years

Betty Ordal Associate Member

Don Dunham III Real Estate

Real Estate-Residential dondunham.com

Paramount Exteriors Exterior & Roofing paramountext.com

5 years

Minnehaha County Farm Bureau Associate Member sdfbf.org

North Central Food Processing Supply/Hobart Sales & Service Food Production/Distribution northcentralfoods.com

First year reinvestors

Catalyst Behavior Solutions

Education-Specialized Learning catalystbehavior.com/sioux-falls-sd

Huether Family MATCH POINTE

Associate Member playthepointe.com

Impact Wealth Management LLC Financial Services letsimpactwealth.com

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

Paul Bruflat Associate Member

SBS CyberSecurity IT Consulting sbscyber.com

Schwartzle Construction Contractors facebook.com/schwartzleconstructionllc/

The Tanner Leadership Consulting Companies LLC Business Consulting

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.

CBS Bio Platforms USA, Inc.

Ag Services

Krisjan Jones, (605) 205-7186

111 N. Kasan Ave., Volga, SD, 57071 cbsbioplatforms.com

East River Foster Parent Network

dba The Foster Network

Associate Member

Holly Christensen, (605) 271-1131

620 S. Cliff Ave., Suite 200, 57104 thefosternet.org

Express Produce

Food Production/Distribution

Abby Smith, (605) 400-8168 1414 E. 52nd St. N., 57104 express-produce.com

Financial Planning Associates

Financial Services

Rick Althoff, (605) 271-2115

409 E. 41st St., 57105 rickalthoff.com

Henkel Corporation

Manufacturing & Production

Bruce Lear, (605) 582-7803

600 Willow St., Brandon, 57005 henkel.com/careers

Integrated Care and Consultation

Mental Health & Counseling

Krystal Lohff, (605) 306-3240

5100 E. Rosa Parks Place, 57110 yourintegratedcare.com

Joel Dykstra

Associate Member

Les Schwab Tire Center

Auto Repair & Services

Cameron Fahl, (605) 679-7624

5800 E. Arrowhead Pkwy, 57110 lesschwab.com

Lighting A New Way Counseling Services

Mental Health & Counseling

Lisa J. Stellinga, (605) 361-0114

1500 S. Sycamore Ave., Suite 102, 57110 lightinganewway.com

Nékter Juice Bar Restaurants

Jody Reno, (605) 275-2555

609 S. Highline Place, 57110 nekterjuicebar.com

Northwestern Mutual - Jake Hult

Affiliate-Insurance

Jake Hult (605) 361-9788

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

Reynolds Construction Management

Construction Management

Tyler Starr, (605) 799-5170

4402 S. Technology Dr., 57106 reynoldsconstructionmanagement.com

Roy’zzz Premium Cannabis

Retail-Specialty

Kendra Jensen, (605) 800-7699

2508 S. Louise Ave., 57106 royzzz.com

Seasoned Style

Retail-Specialty

Christi Petersen (605) 351-5578

824 W. 10th St., 57104

Sioux Empire Lions Club

Associate Member

Rick Cerkowniak

3920 S. Western Ave., 57105 e-clubhouse.org/sites/sioux_falls_sioux_empire

Strike Group Security Services, LLC

Security

Joni Brunkow strikegroupsecurityservices.com

The Dive Restaurants

Allen Wright, (605) 275-3717

1612 S. Western Ave., 57105

Two54 Creative

Website Design & Development

Kendra Cersosimo (605) 550-2199

5013 S. Louise Ave., #170, 57108 two54creative.com

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!

MEMBERSHIP

MIXERS

We invite you and your employees to attend these upcoming Membership Mixers:

TUESDAY

July 9

4:30-6:30 p.m.

McCrossan Boys Ranch 47135 260th St.

TUESDAY

Oct. 8

4:30-6:30 p.m.

Hyatt Place Sioux Falls South 4935 Lake Shore Blvd.

TUESDAY Aug. 13

4:30-6:30 p.m.

CRAVE-Hilton Garden

Inn Downtown 201 E. 8th St.

Holiday Fair & Mixer

TUESDAY Nov. 26

4:30-7 p.m. The DISTRICT 4521 W. Empire Place

The Holiday Fair & Mixer features Chamber members showcasing their products and services. Booths will be available on the Chamber website in October.

TUESDAY Sept. 10

4:30-6:30 p.m.

Old Courthouse Museum 200 W. 6th St.

TUESDAY Dec. 10

4:30-6:30 p.m. Hotel on Phillips 100 N. Phillips Ave.

Enjoy refreshments and complimentary appetizers. Connect with other Chamber members and grow your network. Admission is $5, or use your Mixer Pass. Mixer Passes for the 2024-25 year will be available in September!

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.

EVENTS

Business Fair & Mixer

4:30–7 p.m.

Best Western Plus Ramkota Exhibit Hall, 3200 W. Maple St.

Intro Sioux Falls

4–7 p.m.

Great Shots, 2505 W. Benson Road

An event showcasing all the things we love about our community. Learn about the various neighborhoods, activities and attractions, resources for residents, and more. Interns, new residents and life-long locals – all are welcome to come discover what Sioux Falls has to offer. Enjoy golf and appetizers while networking with other young professionals.

Check out our social media channels for event photos and information on upcoming events!

@GreaterSFCC

YPN Morning Buzz

7:30–9 a.m.

Sioux Falls Lutheran School, 6715 S. Boe Lane

Join other YPN members for networking while getting your morning (coffee) buzz. Morningminded young professionals are invited to come to enjoy coffee and conversation with other YPN members.

Agribusiness Awards Banquet

5:30–9 p.m.

Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort, 1415 Grand Falls Blvd., Larchwood, IA

Celebrate the people and events that have powered the Chamber’s Agribusiness Division throughout the past year! To RSVP, email bhendrickx@siouxfalls.com

YPN Power Lunch

12–1 p.m.

Chick-fil-A, 4005 W. 41st St.

Research says one of the best ways to improve your productivity at work is to take a lunch break. So check out of the office (or your home office) for the noon hour and enjoy lunch with us! Please RSVP if you plan to attend.

Seat at the Table with Andrea Thompson

Noon–1 p.m.

Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce, 200 N. Phillips Ave.

Join us for a seat at the table with the CEO of the Dakota State University Applied Research Corporation, Andrea Thompson! A Seat at the Table is reserved for YPN Members only.

ChamberHood-Northwest

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Location to be announced

Join us for an informative luncheon and a chance to meet some people from your neighborhood. If you live, work or do business in northwest Sioux Falls, this event is for you. Registration required.

Morning Mingle

Hosted by TSP, Inc.

7:30–9 a.m.

TSP, Inc., 1112 N. West Ave.

Start your day by making a new connection. Drop by for a cup of coffee and conversation with other members of the business community.

YPN Focus Workshop:

Generational

Leadership

12–1 p.m.

Zoom

Join us for this virtual learning session exclusively designed for YPN Members. In this workshop, you’ll hear from YPN member Anna Jankord about generational leadership.

Membership Mixer

Hosted by Mutual of America

Financial Group

4:30–7 p.m.

McCrossan Boys Ranch, 47135 260th St.

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

Morning Mingle

Hosted by Sioux Falls Area

Humane Society

7:30–9 a.m.

Sioux Falls Area Humane Society, 3720 E. Benson Road

Start your day by making a new connection. Drop by for a cup of coffee and conversation with other members of the business community.

Visit siouxfallsevents .com and experiencesiouxfalls .com/ events for details on the events listed here and more happening in the area . Planning an event? Let us help you promote it! Submit your event to siouxfallsevents com All events welcome – business workshops, retail events, entertainment, education and more

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.

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

April 2024 - cumulative year to date

Regional Unemployment Rates

March 2024

City of Sioux Falls Total Construction Value April 2024 - cumulative year to date

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

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

Sioux

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 volunteers are Jay Soukup, Stifel, ten years as an ambassador; and Nichelle Lund, Canopy by Hilton Sioux Falls Downtown, three years as a diplomat.

The ACE Award is presented to one ambassador in recognition of their efforts to recruit and support new Chamber members. Monica Huether, Peska Construction, received the ACE Award for April.

The Ambassador team of the month for April was Monica Huether, Peska Construction, and Kayla Jarchow, BookYourBillboard.com

The Diplomat of the month for April was Andrea Carstensen, Minnwest

Bank. Event Champion honors went to Deb Peterson, a community volunteer.

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

Chamber Mission

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.

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 .

Monica Huether Peska Construction

Nichelle Lund Canopy by Hilton Sioux Falls Downtown

Jay Soukup Stifel Investment Services

Andrea Carstensen Minnwest Bank

Deb Peterson

New Faces & Promotions

Bank Midwest has added two banking veterans to their Sioux Fallsbased team. Kathy Thorson joined as Executive Vice President of Client Experience. Her 40-year career in banking includes both commercial and retail banking, bank operations, and leadership roles. Thorson has a BA in Business Administration from Augustana University and a Master of Business Administration from USD. Karen Waller joined as Vice President of Business Banking. Waller has extensive experience in commercial lending, retail banking, and all facets of bank products and services. She has a BA in Business and Psychology from Buena Vista University.

Malia Holbeck and Clinton Hubers have joined Children’s Home Society of South Dakota (CHS), both in leadership roles. Holbeck has been appointed to the new position of clinical director of care and will lead CHS’s Outpatient Therapy services. Hubers has joined as the director of facilities, overseeing maintenance and grounds, housekeeping and food service for all CHS campuses statewide, including the new Rapid City campus renovation project.

Rachael Weiland has joined South Dakota Trade as director of business engagement. Weiland will lead efforts

Honors & Awards

Experience Sioux Falls recognized five individuals and one business for their contributions to the visitor industry. Sioux Falls Police Chief Jon Thum received the Heart of the City Award for significant contribution to the visitor industry through inspiration, spirit and excellent leadership. The Washington Pavilion received the Business Award for exemplifying innovation, creating impact and causing the Sioux Falls region to shine as a visitor desti-

to educate, recruit and consult with companies who wish to expand their exports or begin exporting for the first time.

Eide Bailly LLP, a national certified public accounting and business advisory firm, announced the addition of 24 new partners, effective May 1, 2024. Three Sioux Falls-based employees were appointed partners. Judon Mettler was promoted to Audit partner, Callie Beisch was promoted to Tax partner, and Eric Hansen was promoted to Forensic Accounting Principal.

The City of Sioux Falls has hired Maren Engel as its first Arts Coordinator. She has a background in arts administration, performing arts, and community development and fundraising. As Arts Coordinator, some of Engel’s responsibilities will include creating arts and culture policies, managing City art investments, implementing procedures, and developing partnerships and financial resources to meet the diverse needs of residents and visitors. Engel graduated from Augustana University with a Bachelor of Arts in vocal music and classics.

nation. First Impressions Awards are presented to employees who come in direct contact with visitors and consistently provide extraordinary customer service. Award recipients are Allison Weiland, Sioux Falls State Theatre; Trisha Lux, GLō Best Western Dawley Farms; Lynnette Ingalls, 22TEN Kitchen Cocktails; and Kelly Woldt, Simply Perfect

Our members do more than follow the news. They make the news. Job promotions and hirings. New projects. New partnerships. Awards. Celebrate your employees, business accomplishments and more with Chamber News. Submit news to jdoyen@siouxfalls.com.

Clinton Hubers

Judon Mettler

Malia Holbeck

Callie Beisch

Eric Hansen

Karen Waller Kathy Thorson

Maren Engel

Leadership

Mayor Paul TenHaken appointed Joe Kippley as the next Public Health Director for the City of Sioux Falls. Kippley has extensive experience in leadership and healthcare, most recently serving as the clinic director of cardiology at Sanford Health in Sioux Falls. He holds multiple higher education degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts in political science and economics from the University of Notre Dame, a law degree from the University of South Dakota, and a Master of Health Administration from the University of Iowa. Kippley is also currently serving on the Minnehaha County Commission. The Public Health Director’s appointment requires the advice and consent of the City Council, which was scheduled for May 21 as of press date.

Betsy Schuster is the new CEO of Active Generations She succeeds Gerald Beninga, who retired at the end of May after leading the organization since 1990. Schuster most recently served as vice president of program development for the Helpline Center, where she helped launch and expand multiple programs statewide. In a statement announcing her hiring, the board of directors for Active Generations cited her “proven track record in nonprofit program development, leading and motivating people, and robust experience in community engagement.”

Good Deeds

Levo Credit Union and the Sioux Falls Storm raised $20,000 this year for Operation Hope and Caring, which provides funds for schools with a large percentage of kids who qualify for free and reduced lunch. Principals from Sioux Falls’ Title 1 schools can use the fund for areas of need, such as winter gear closets, field trip fees, and sock/ underwear drawers. Since 2017, Operation Hope and Caring has provided over $109,000 in assistance to the Sioux Falls Schools.

Joe Kippley

Be Seen

LifeScape hosted Chamber members at their location near I-229 and Western Avenue for the May Membership Mixer . CEO Steve Watkins and LifeScape Foundation President Jessica Wells welcomed guests and shared the organization’s vision for their new campus that is under construction on the northwest side of town .

Be Seen

The April Morning Mingle was hosted by Bank Midwest Chamber members started their day by making a new connection over coffee at the bank’s Minnesota Avenue location .

The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Cybersecurity Conference on April 23 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center . Attendees heard from industry experts about the current landscape in cybersecurity and learned best practices for protecting their businesses . The event featured keynote speakers Aaron Baker, Dakota State University, and Jim Edman, Department of Homeland Security .

Be Seen

The Chamber’s Young Professionals Network celebrated 15 years of developing and connecting young professionals at its annual Birthday Bash event in April .

Long-time Chamber employee Betty J Ordal met with young professionals in the conference room that is named after her during a recent A Seat at the Table event .

Be Seen

There’s nothing like starting your workday with puppy kisses! YPN members who attended the May Morning Buzz at Sioux Falls Area Humane Society enjoyed meeting the animals while networking

Thirty-six members of Leadership Sioux Falls class 38 graduated from the program in early May . Angela Lammers, Cetera Services, addressed graduates and their guests . The application period for the next class will open in June .

Be Seen

(Above) During an Our Sioux Falls event, SD CEO East Women’s Business Center Director Sadie Swier spoke with YPN members about the resources available for businesses through their organization .

(Left) Community Connections tours give young professionals a behind-the-scenes look at a local business . Participants of a recent event toured the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center .

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

GOING GLOBAL

South Dakota companies find new opportunities in international trade

By Jill Callison For the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce

One trade mission to Mexico resulted in three new clients for a South Dakota processor of raw sunflower seeds for human consumption or bird food.

Sunflower in Huron and is its south warehouse manager, said such a response means the investment of time and money in the international market was spent wisely.

tors throughout Mexico now, and it was well worth the travel time,” Garcia said. “In that business culture, they really do value visiting in person, sitting across a desk face to face, doing business the old-fashioned way with a shake of the hands.”

even more than it already has into the international market, said Luke Lindberg, President & CEO of South Dakota Trade, a public-private partnership that had its grand opening in April 2023.

Currently, exports represent about 10 percent of the state’s economy.

The exportation of South Dakota’s agriculture products makes an impact worldwide. More than half of the soybeans grown in the state are exported, along with a third of the state’s hogs. There’s also growth in dairy exports as well, Lindberg said, “particularly as we invest in cheese-processing plants and whey production, not just milk out of a cow.”

Manufacturing represents the biggest opportunity for

“We’ve underperformed a lot on the manufacturing side. Agriculture is the top export in dollar value terms, but in terms of where we can expand the most, we have to make a concerted effort to increase our manufacturing exports,” Lindberg said. “We’ve been lagging behind other states, and from my vantage point it represents our biggest opportunity

Joe Beck serves as executive director of corporate development at Viaflex, which designs and manufactures unique wide-width plastic films for many markets. Formerly known as Raven Engineered Films, the company was established 60

“Traditionally we’ve made some effort into looking into how we expand internationally but nothing that was a comprehensive effort,” Beck said. “We were making sure we were handling all the business opportunities in our backyard. There’s still a lot of market share right here, but as we continue to mature and evolve and the global economy continues to change, it’s something we’re taking a deep look at.”

Viaflex is doing that by partnering with South Dakota Trade. Beck serves as South Dakota Trade’s board chairman. The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Jeff Griffin also serves on the board of directors. The Chamber and Sioux Falls Development Foundation, with support from joint venture Forward Sioux Falls, work closely with South Dakota Trade in not only sharing information but supporting companies in the realm of international trade.

Currently, Viaflex’s export revenue likely is less than 5 percent of its total revenue, Beck said. No goal has been established yet for expansion into the international market, but as that focus expands, a target will be set, he said.

“I think the big key is really focusing on geographies where our product can go in and make a difference,” Beck said. “Take China for example. We would have a lot of

competitors in China, so we’re not looking to penetrate the China market. That being said, we have a lot of ag products that translate to countries where there might be ag needs, like Mexico, Latin America and South America. Those are areas of interest to us.”

A team from Viaflex will go on its first trade mission this year, traveling to Japan and Taiwan in late June. When that is over, the team will measure how many business leads and opportunities it thinks are viable to pursue and how much revenue could be generated.

Garcia, of Advanced Sunflower, went on the trade mission to Mexico in September 2023. The company has always placed high importance on exporting raw shelled and unshelled sunflower kernels. Spain, Turkey and Jordan once were major players for Advanced Sunflower, but competitiveness in the international market and among suppliers has made it more challenging there.

The trip to Mexico took him to Mexico City and its Central de Abastos de la Ciudad de Mexico, a huge market where companies showcase various products. After that, accompanied by an experienced friend, he traveled to cities such as Puebla, Monterrey and Vera Cruz.

Garcia conservatively places Advanced Sunflower’s international market at 20 percent of its total business. He thinks that number can increase.

“That was big for us to go visit customers in their offices,” said Garcia, a University of South Dakota graduate who majored in international studies with a minor in business administration.

Said Lindberg, “We always say that the best opportunity to generate a sale is when you put a willing buyer and a willing seller in the same room. A lot of the international markets that are growing right now are markets that place a high value on personal relationships. Southeast Asia a great example of that. They like to do business with people they know. One of most accessible ways to do that is through a trade mission.”

The South Dakota Soybean Checkoff is tasked with promotion, education and research for that crop. The South Dakota Soybean Association monitors policies that affect soybean farmers and soybean promotion. Board members go on regular trade missions and each year host three trade missions to South Dakota, said Jerry Schmitz, executive director for the two groups. In 2023, board members traveled to the emerging market of Morocco. Potential travel this year has not yet been finalized.

“We typically visit buyers when we go to those countries and find out what they’re looking for and discuss the type of things they’re concerned about or interested in our product,” Schmitz said. “They would take us out to build ings where they were housing soy prod ucts and also housing POET products. They were familiar with our product even though we hadn’t met before.”

In May, South Dakota Trade sent a small delegation to South Africa. A larger delegation will go on a trade mission to Japan and Taiwan in late June. South Dakota Trade is in the initial stages of planning a trip to India in 2025.

Supply chains

One thing that makes Advanced Sunflower competitive in the international market is its ability to ship via rail, Garcia said. That also is essential for POET, the world’s largest producer of biofuels. The company procures about a billion bushels of corn from farmers each year, then sends it to biorefineries where the grain is processed, and the starch converted into bioethanol. That bioethanol is used in fuel.

Above: A group from South Dakota visited Alf Sahel, which is the largest feed mill in Morocco. They purchase soybeans from South Dakota and dried distiller grains from POET. (photo courtesy South Dakota Soybean Association)

Right: Participants in a trade mission to Mexico last fall toured a local facility. (photo courtesy South Dakota Trade)

The remaining proteins, fat, micronutrients and carbon dioxide (CO2) are then used in other products. CO2, for example, is used in food processing and soft drinks. Proteins, fiber and micronutrients are used as an animal feed that is shipped throughout the world. The oil is used primarily as a feed stock for renewable biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel, while some also goes into the feed market.

Dried distillers grains (DDG) are a major export, said Greg Breukelman, president of POET Bioproducts.

“The DDG, which is our feed product, we produce about seven million tons of that a year,” he said. “We export a fair amount of that production. We can rail it into Mexico or Canada, which are exports. Bulk vessels can be loaded in the Gulf (of Mexico) down in New Orleans, where they load DDG on barges. Another option is a shipping container, and that’s one of the main ways to get the product to its destination overseas.”

In 2022, POET was the fifth-largest container shipper among all companies, and Breukelman expects to be in the top 15 for 2023.

POET, which began exporting its products more than 20 years ago, ships to 25 to 30 countries in any given year and has traded in 40 countries in a 12-month period.

Being a player in the international market means being prepared and having data and market intelligence on what’s going on with supply chains built to reach different parts of the world, Breukelman said.

In September 2022, POET acquired a harbor facility in Savannah, Georgia, the third-largest container port in the country and one of the fastest growing. POET now sends the DDG via rail to that facility, which unloads the rail cars, loads them into shipping containers, inspects and seals them, then trucks the containers to the port in Savannah. From there, the containers filled with DDG sail to destinations in southeast Asia, the Middle East and Turkey, among others, Breukelman said.

South Dakota may not be the most logical locale to export a product like DDG, Breukelman said, but it works. He said that’s essential, because a company can build a demand but without a cost-effective way to deliver the product, it’s not sustainable.

“For our business it takes trucks and rail cars and steamships and ocean vessels and barges, pretty much everything

The harbor in Savannah, Georgia is shown in a photo from the Georgia Port Authority. The port is the third largest container port in the country.

you can think of to get our product there,” he said. “Sometimes it may take three or four of those modes to get it where it ultimately needs to go.”

State economic impact

Agriculture is South Dakota’s largest industry by far, with $5 billion of the $7 billion total ag-related. Sixty to 70 percent of the soybeans raised in the state go elsewhere, Schmitz said. The largest buyers are Canada, Mexico and Southeast Asia, although the crop is shipped all over the world.

“Back in the 2000s, China became a huge buyer,” Schmitz said. “They consume so much of the world’s soybeans that they just need to buy our product.”

Developing an international market will bring new monies into South Dakota and its communities, he said. “Those monies help to enrich not only the business but its communities,” Schmitz said. “Businesses are buying things, and tax revenue increases.”

Key industries for expansion into international trade from South Dakota are those in bioproducts, Schmitz said.

“I’m talking about feed stocks from agriculture, whether corn and soybeans, forestry, all types of different products, we have the feed stocks here like no other states,” he said. “We have the potential in our small communities.”

Products that are biodiverse or sustainable have enormous potential, Schmitz said.

Lindberg is excited about future growth in other sectors with a smaller dollar value, such as education, cybersecurity and tourism.

“Education and tourism are both considered to be exports,” he said. “Tourism is a major part of South Dakota’s economy, as well as foreign students that come and learn in our state universities. We’re beginning to work with the South Dakota Department of Tourism and have a robust partnership with the University of South Dakota to recruit more students and more visitors to our great state.”

South Dakota Trade currently is assisting a small manu facturing company in Tea that has significantly grown their exports, by helping to identify international markets, Lindberg said. His team has also begun working with a South Dakota-based whisky distiller new to exporting. It will participate in the upcoming trade delegation to Japan, helping to expose whisky to that market. A gun-manufacturing company in Rapid City that makes high-quality firearms now has contracts with several foreign governments.

“You have to have a product that has a demand in other countries,” Breukelman said. “For a product like animal feed like we have, it has demand because everybody needs to eat

Participants in the trade mission to Mexico last fall toured a local facility. (photo courtesy South Dakota Trade)

and not every country is as good as growing crops and feed for those animals as we are here in the United States.

“Then you need to develop those markets and educate the buyers in those markets. We have [an employee with] a PhD in animal nutrition. A big part of his job is he travels around the world, speaks at different conferences so they understand our product.”

Getting started

South Dakota Trade is working with multiple industries to target areas where it can sell its products, Lindberg said. A business or manufacturer thinking about exporting its goods should make its first phone call to South Dakota Trade, Lindberg said. Its team can help all levels of exporters to be successful, including a course for beginners to more advanced companies that participate in continuing education on topics such as supply chains and international financial instruments. South Dakota Trade can give out awards of up to $10,000 to small businesses looking to export products to foreign markets.

“The U.S. Small Business Administration put out a report this past year that looked at the total addressable market for U.S. small-business exports, and 41 percent of small businesses have a potentially exportable product,” Lindberg said. “Now, the actual number is closer to 10 percent, so there’s a 30 percent gap. Three out of 10 small businesses could be exporting products but are not.”

One of South Dakota Trade’s clients in the trust industry told Lindberg that 80 percent of its new business came from overseas last year. Now, South Dakota Trade is working with the South Dakota Trust Association to position trust companies for success in attracting new clients, Lindberg said.

Business leaders interested in expanding into international markets should take advantage of the available resources, Garcia said. In addition to South Dakota Trade, Food Export Midwest, which is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is a great resource for companies selling food products. Personnel will make sure the company that wants to expand is dealing with a reputable business.

“Use your resources—government agencies both state and federal will help you get information, and information is key,” Garcia said. “Will I get paid? That’s important not just internationally but domestically, but with internationally there are fewer ways to use the law.… If you have the ability to travel and meet clients in person, do so. Even Zoom calls or webinars, use the technology we have available to access these people.”

Advised Breukelman, “I’d say do your research. South Dakota is very supportive. For those that need it, the state has a lot of resources available for companies that are looking to export. There can be a lot of risk in doing international business if you don’t know what you’re doing. But banks can help, the state has resources and trade associations have different resources to help with these things.”

Above: SD Lieutenant Governor Larry Rhoden and SD Secretary of Agriculture Hunter Roberts discussed trade opportunities with local business leaders during a trip to Mexico organized by South Dakota Trade. (photo courtesy South Dakota Trade)

Right: POET employees at work at the company’s harbor facility in Savannah, Georgia. (photo courtesy POET)

Business Advocacy

New federal rule may impact employment contracts

Across the United States and in a wide variety of industries, it is common to find businesses that utilize non-compete agreements in their employment contracts. In fact, it is estimated that roughly one in five workers in the U.S. are subject to such restrictions.

For those that are unfamiliar, the purpose of a non-compete is to prevent a current employee from working for, or starting, a company that is in direct competition with the company they are currently, or previously, employed by. They are enforced typically with a time, and occasionally geographical, restriction in place to prevent employees from leaving a company and immediately taking with them intellectual property, trade secrets and client lists. They can also be used to protect the time and financial investment employers make in their employees. Non-compete agreements are typically used for executives and specialty trained professionals such as engineers and medical professionals, and occasionally on entry or mid-level employees.

...the FTC received over 26,000 public comments, both against and in favor.

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

In January of 2023, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced a proposed rule that would effectively ban nearly all non-compete agreements moving forward. The rule would also nullify any existing contracts that contain a clause that limits an employee’s ability to compete in the job market. The FTC cites in their proposed rule that non-compete agreements are being overused and are not simply being applied to executive and specialty level employees, but all employees.

On April 23rd, 2024, the FTC announced the issuance of their final rule, which effectively bans future non-competes and voids most current ones. The FTC states, “Noncompete clauses keep wages low, suppress new ideas, and rob the American economy of dynamism, including from the more than 8,500 new startups that would be created a year once non-competes are banned.”

In the 15 months between the initial announcement of the proposed ban and repeal of non-compete agreements and the issuance of the final rule, the FTC received over 26,000 public comments, both against and in favor.

Supporters embrace the FTC’s position of broader freedom for individual workers. They argue this rule creates greater economic opportunity by empowering workers to start new businesses, even if they might compete with a former employer.

Opponents say non-competes are private agreements and the government should not get involved. As of the date this article was written, three organizations, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Business Roundtable, and the Longview Chamber of Commerce in Longview, Texas, have all filed suits against the FTC’s final rule banning non-compete agreements. The U.S. Chamber cites that “in its view, the agency exceeded its administrative authority by outlawing what it deems “unfair methods of competition.” The plaintiff argues that without a clear legislative mandate from Congress, the FTC does not have the power to issue and enforce their blanket non-compete ban.

What does all of this mean for your business? The FTC’s rule will apply to any new employment agreement, meaning that no newly hired employee, no matter their title or compensation, may be restricted by a non-compete agreement in their employment contract. The ruling also will nullify and void a noncompete agreement clause in almost all existing employment contracts today, however this does not void the entire employment contract according to the FTC. The only exception to the retroactive nature of the ruling is for “senior executives”, who’s non-competes may stay in place for the duration of the current contract. The final rule defines senior executives as workers earning more than $151,164 annually and who are in policy-making positions.

The non-compete repeal and ban is scheduled to go into effect 120 days after the final rule was published, making the effective date August 21, 2024. However, with the lawsuits filed against the FTC, this could lead to a delay in implementation of the final rule. The plaintiffs have requested a preliminary injunction, or stay, which would delay the implementation until a court can litigate the case.

The Chamber will continue to follow this issue and keep you informed of any major developments. In the meantime, if your company utilizes non-compete agreements you should explore other avenues to protect your business’ assets should the rule be implemented this fall.

Mitch Rave Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce

Intro Sioux Falls creates connections for new residents

Newcomers to Sioux Falls can discover the many facets of our community at the 3rd annual Intro Sioux Falls event. The gathering spotlights features, attractions and resources found in each neighborhood of Sioux Falls. It will take place Thursday, June 20 at Great Shots.

Intro Sioux Falls is geared toward interns, young workers and recent transplants to the city. Attendees will have the chance to network with fellow young professionals over a round of golf and appetizers. It’s an ideal setting to forge meaningful connections while soaking in the vibrant spirit of Sioux Falls.

“By building familiarity with the city, we are helping young professionals feel more connected to Sioux Falls – and that makes them more likely to stay here long-term,” said Jaci Pieters, Young Professionals Network Manager.

Employers are invited to encourage their interns and newer employees to attend Intro Sioux Falls. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Intro Sioux Falls

Thursday, June 20 | 4–7 p.m. Great Shots, 2505 W. Benson Road

Intro Sioux Falls is organized and hosted by the Young Professionals Network of the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. It is sponsored by Sanford Health, Great Shots, the Sioux Falls Development Foundation and Interstate Office Products.

People network at the Intro Sioux Falls event in 2023.

Apply for Leadership Sioux Falls

The Evan C. Nolte Leadership Sioux Falls program will begin accepting applications for the 39th class on June 10, 2024. More than 1,000 people have gone through the signature leadership program of the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce since it launched in 1986.

Leadership Sioux Falls identifies current and future leaders of Sioux Falls and educates them on the different aspects that tie the community together, with the goal of inspiring program participants to take action to make a positive impact on the future of Sioux Falls. The program is built around providing educational experiences; thereby helping participants identify ways they can serve and engage in active citizenship of the community in alignment with their individual strengths, talents and purpose.

The Leadership Sioux Falls program runs October through April and concludes with a graduation in May. Each session of the program focuses on different facets of the Sioux Falls community and include topics such as education, local and state government, public safety, business and industry and service.

The program application, as well as a complete schedule for Class 39 is available at siouxfallschamber.com. Applications will be accepted until August 2, 2024. Tuition is $1,000 for employees of a Chamber-member business and is non-refundable.

Class 39

Leadership Sioux Falls

Evan C. Nolte

Veterans Community Project shatters campaign goal

By Mike Lynch

While the Veterans Community Project’s (VCP) primary responsibility is to provide essential shelter for homeless veterans, it is also significant to surround vets with vital wrap-around services. VCP partners with local agencies, non-profits, companies and individuals to help them overcome these challenges.

A crucial component to deploy these services will be the construction of the Village Center, which was the focal point of VCP’s Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce Community Appeals campaign, held November 2023 through March 2024. Sixty-six volunteers, a strong leadership team and a dedicated staff conducted an extremely successful campaign, raising over $2.9 million – more than twice the goal.

Over 628 community volunteers, corporations, schools, veterans’ organizations and churches have invested in the project since establishing a footprint in Sioux Falls. “VCP is truly the community’s project,” said Development Director Alisha Grove. She added that the guidance, organization and professionalism they received from the Chamber throughout the fundraising campaign was exceptional.

Campaign Co-Chair Jeannine Hoff-Lubben said the difference VCP will make in our community is enormous. “Unfortunately, we have many homeless vets here in town, not to mention the

surrounding area and our state. If VCP is enabled to thrive here, lives will be changed, families restored and more people will be converted into our workforce.”

Village Center construction started in late February 2024. Five tiny homes have been completed, with another five homes nearing completion of interior construction. The Village Center is scheduled for completion by September 2024 and the entire village has a target completion date of early 2026.

Executive Director John Holter said the hope is to model the Sioux Falls village after one in Kansas City, resulting in a significant economic impact to the community. “In Kansas City, property values increased significantly for not only the VCP Village, but also neighboring homes and businesses.”

Once the Village is completed, there will be space for 25 single residents or up to 75 total residents if all family units were at maximum capacity. VCP also assists Veterans in an outreach capacity even though they may not reside in the village.

“VCP is needed here, and any support to contribute will have an enormous impact on the people of Sioux Falls,” Hoff-Lubben said.

The first of 25 planned tiny homes stand ready at the Veterans Community Project village.

Sioux Empire Livestock Show scholarships awarded

The Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce has awarded Sioux Empire Livestock Show Exhibitor Scholarships to five students pursuing post-secondary education.

The Sioux Empire Livestock Show Exhibitor Scholarships are given to students who are enrolled in a two- or four-year program for the next academic year, with plans to study in an agriculturerelated field. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must have participated in the Chamber’s Sioux Empire Livestock Show as an exhibitor of either cattle, market lamb, market goat or market hogs.

A committee of volunteers from the Chamber’s Agribusiness Division reviews applications and selects the scholarship recipients.

The 2024 Sioux Empire Livestock Show Exhibitor Scholars are:

• Morgan Kelly, Algona, IA – Iowa State University to study Animal Science–Pre-Vet

• Brady Allan, Le Mars, IA – Iowa State University to study Animal Science

• Mabry McGunegill, Jasper, MN – Kansas State University to study Animal Science

• Molly Freese, Carroll, IA – Iowa State University to study Agriculture Communications

• Chance Austin, Milton, WI – Iowa State University to study Agriculture Business

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.

Alpine Gold Exchange

2116 S . Minnesota Ave ., Suite 3 alpinegold.com

Alpine Gold Exchange, a pioneer in the precious metals industry, has transformed the acquisition, circulation and liquidation of precious metal currencies, making it easier for individuals to invest in and own precious metals. L to R: Andrea Carstensen, Alissa Matt, Cindi Johnson, Tiffany Jurries, Bryan Jurries (branch manager) and Cole Robbins.

Big Lost Meadery and Ranch & Roost

2215 S Lorraine Place biglostmeadery.com

Big Lost Meadery and Ranch & Roost broke ground on a new location on Lake Lorraine. The Gillette, Wyoming-based restaurant will serve handcrafted mead, chicken sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and sides. L to R: Sam Clikeman (managing member), Bob Hewitt-Gaffney, Ryan Boschee, Aaron Cannon, Kelly Cannon, Steve Van Buskirk, Scott Lawrence and Marshall Selberg.

Boy Scouts-Sioux Council

800 N . West Ave . siouxbsa.org

Boy Scouts-Sioux Council provides a characterbased development program for both boys and girls between the ages of 5-20. Their new addition includes a bouldering wall, outdoor firepit and STEM classroom. L to R: Eva Gerlach, Cindi Johnson, Jay Soukup, Melissa Stricherz (executive director), Kevin Smith (board president), Dana Dykhouse and Erin McCann.

Combined Pool & Spa

3520 S . Western Ave . combinedpoolandspa.com

Combined Pool & Spa offers hot tubs, outdoor furniture, billiards, custom inground swimming pools and all of the services that go along with these categories. This year they are celebrating 25 years of helping you bring happy home! L to R: Liz Sheppard, Alissa Matt, Cindi Johnson, Jennifer Hoesing, Jeff Carlson (owner), Tom Junck (president/owner) and Rachael Junck.

New Member

Groundbreaking

Expansion

Milestone Anniversary

Electrified Equipment & Powersports

2905 W Russell Ave

electrifiedequip.com

Electrified Equipment & Powersports offers the market’s best electric-only tools, equipment and toys. They also have a full-service repair shop for outdoor power equipment. L to R: Joe Bunkers, Andrea Carstensen, Jacob Broin (co-owner), Tyler Carroll, Lynda Billars, Adam Buss and Rob Broin.

Engineered Truss Systems

1912 N Plum Ave , Brandon engineeredtruss.com

Engineered Truss Systems specializes in manufacturing wood roof trusses, laminated veneer lumber beams and headers, and wood floor trusses for residential, commercial and agricultural projects. L to R: Dan Brady, Matt Zobel, Jennifer Hoesing, Jeff Griffin, Jake Quasney (COO), Rachael Neiman, Tammy Beintema and Brad Brown.

New Member

New Member

As you create rest and relaxation WE CONNECT YOU.

Michelle Lounsbery and her team at The Spa on Phillips not only offer a bit of escape and sanctuary with spa, massage, floating therapy and other cutting-edge services, they help people.

“We create happiness and relaxation – and we get to help people find themselves, too,” says Lounsbery.

Lounsbery is a strong advocate for Chamber membership – both The Spa on Phillips and her second business, Fit to Be Well, are members.

She encourages her team to attend Chamber networking events and to get involved in being part of the solution to addressing needs in our community.

“ As part of a small business community, we are all our best cheerleaders.

And the Chamber helps us connect to find those ‘win-wins’ in partnership.”

– Michelle Lounsbery, The Spa on Phillips, Fit to Be Well

meet more creators

JLG Architects

232 S Main Ave

jlgarchitects.com

JLG Architects builds communities that thrive and environments that inspire. With their recent expansion, JLG doubled the square footage of their Sioux Falls office to accommodate their growing business and to better serve their client base. L to R: Karst Way, Tammy Beintema, Catherine Dekkenga (market leader/principal architect), Joe Bunkers, Jennifer Hoesing, James Gaspar and Karen Mutschelknaus.

LifeScape Children’s Campus

lifescapesd .org

N. Career Ave. and W. 34th St. N.

LifeScape’s new children’s campus will encompass their pediatric specialty hospital, inpatient and intensive outpatient therapy, the specialty school, children’s residential area, recreation space, and administration space. L to R: Jason Schmitz, Stacy McMahan, Chip Carlson, Bob McNaney, Shelly Johnson, Mayor Paul TenHaken, Sen. John Thune, Dave Billion, Steve Watkins, Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden and Jessica Wells.

Nékter Juice Bar

nekterjuicebar .com

609 S. Highline Place

Nékter Juice Bar offers freshly made juices, smoothies and açaí bowls made to order. They offer total ingredient transparency by eliminating hidden fillers, unnecessary sugars, processed ingredients, and artificial flavors from its menu. L to R: Alex Reno, April Meyerink, Matt Paulson, Melissa Reno (co-owner), Sydney Reno, Jody Reno (co-owner), Cindi Johnson, Laycee Kluin and Logan Reno.

The Parkwood

7800 S Western Ave transformingage.org

The Parkwood is a new 55+ independent living development in south Sioux Falls, offering 133 upscale apartment homes with 22 different floor plans and underground parking. L to R: Alyssa Bossman, Sandy Case, Mayor Paul TenHaken, Jay Soukup, Frankie Payne (president), Megan Jung, Nathan Kasselder and TJ Howard.

Pinnacle Wealth

612 E . Tan Tara Circle, Suite 100 pinnaclewealth.com

Pinnacle Wealth is a full-service wealth management firm focusing on comprehensive and personalized financial plans designed to help you achieve your vision of true wealth. L to R: Ryan Ovenden, Kevin Engbers (founder/CEO), Timothy Meagher, Alissa Matt, Jennifer Hoesing, Cindi Johnson and Nik Aamlid.

Groundbreaking

Sioux Area Metro

500 E 6th St

siouxfalls.gov/resident-services/sam

Sioux Area Metro is becoming more rider-centric, efficient and accessible, thanks to the City of Sioux Falls’ new contract with TransitTech and operations provider, Via. L to R: Cody Papke, Lynda Billars, Mayor Paul TenHaken, Emily Shapiro (general manager), Councilman Greg Neitzert, Jennifer Hoesing, Joni Tschetter, Jeff Eckhoff and April Schulte.

Two Men and a Junk Truck

222 N . Marion Road, Suite B twomenandajunktruck.com

Two Men and a Junk Truck’s professional teams will arrive to your home, business or job site and efficiently remove and dispose of your unwanted items or debris, including furniture removal, garage and basement cleanouts, home renovation clean up and more. L to R: Desiree Briskee, Tamien Dysart, April Meyerink, Angela Drake (owner), Nichelle Lund, Kameron Nelson and Butchie Corcoran.

Expansion

New Management

5 Brady Lieuwen

Brady Lieuwen has been an officer with the Sioux Falls Police Department since 2005. He currently serves as a Community Resource Officer (CRO), a role that allows him to focus on building relationships within the community on behalf of the SFPD. Brady and his fellow CROs can regularly be found attending parades, festivals and other community celebrations.

Born and raised in Sioux Falls, Brady is passionate about this city. He volunteers as a middle and high school football coach and fills several volunteer roles in his church. A die-hard Green Bay Packers and New York Yankees fan, Brady also enjoys hunting, fishing and traveling with his wife, Sarah, and children Ella and Aaron.

How did you choose your profession?

I had several people in my life that were officers for the SFPD and spending time with them and being able to see the influence they had on the city and my life meant a lot to me. The more I looked at the job of an officer and thought about being able to affect change in my community, not sit at a desk all day, have the thrill of being in challenging situations, and eat donuts, it really sounded like a career that I wanted to pursue. So, early in my high school years the desire to be a member of the Sioux Falls Police Department was very high on my career list.

What might someone be surprised to learn about you?

I never played a single day of football growing up but I went to college and played four years for the University of Northwestern-St. Paul. I also HATE chocolate!

1 2 3

What is a piece of advice you’ve received that has served you well?

I have had a lot of great mentors over the years and have been given a lot of good advice, but if I had to pick one piece I would say it was: “You were given one mouth and two ears, so listen twice as much as you speak.”

4

What is something you are optimistic about for our community?

That we can be the example of how a community works directly with its Police Department to promote the quality of life for everyone living in the community. I believe our Police Department and community do a great job working together, but I think that we can be the gold standard for other communities to look to when it comes to the relationship of policing and community.

What is one of Sioux Falls best-kept secrets?

There are a LOT of great restaurants in Sioux Falls (I would know I like to eat) and things to do, however I think that one of the hidden gems is Sioux Falls Canaries baseball games! These games offer great entertainment for the family, delicious concessions and the players are always willing to sign autographs and hang out with the kids after the games!

Brady Lieuwen, Sioux Falls Police Department