VERB
The
Winter 2022
noun 1. A word that expresses an action, state, or a relation between two things.
2. Your quarterly update on the action, events, and state of the Vermillion community, your Chamber of Commerce, Visitor Bureau, and Economic Development Company, and the relationship between you and all these things.
Spirit of South Dakota
To us,
your business is personal.
Raise Your Expectations
Darwin Van Den Oever Vice President Branch Manager NMLS 556516
(605) 624-4461 101 W Main St | Vermillion CorTrustBank.com ID 405612
Spirit of South Dakota
CONTENTS Panelists from February RED Talk
Viewpoint 2 3 4
Contributors Note from nate from the chair
Events 6-8 10-11 12-13
event recap things to do this season event calendar
Feature story 14-15
Streetscape update
Chamber 16-17 18-20 21 21-22 24
Vital Verbatim vested villagers Velocity - Marcus Destin
Standstill Parade of Lights Emcees Katey Ulrich & Marcus Destin Breakfast with Santa
economic development 26-27 28
vermillion now! 3 why vermillion - Chris Kassin
Winter 1
Viewpoint
Melissa Eberts editor answer: B
Miles Amende Contributing writer answer: c
VERB Contributors
Poll What kind of winter do you prefer?
Winter 2
A. i prefer to stay inside. B. lots of snow for skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing! C. no snow and mild temps.
poll results A. 20% C. 20% B. 60%
@livevermillion @VermillionSD @VermillionSD @VermillionSD
Viewpoint
Note from Nate Happy New Year to our members, committees,
volunteers, partners, stakeholders, entrepreneurs, job creators, and business leaders that are our team and family at the Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company. Every year, we tend to reflect on how the previous year went while looking forward with great hope to the next. In business, reflection is a must – it’s important to slow down, pause amidst the chaos, untangle and sort through the observations and experiences of the past year, and create meaning from that reflection. There is always an urgency to move forward faster, to produce more than you did before – but it’s just as beneficial to slow down and take a moment. You’ve more than earned it. With the new year comes new resolutions – a time where we focus on what we want to improve moving forward. Thankfully, I believe we are in a vastly better place than we were in this time last year. I recognize and applaud each of you for the courage and perseverance it took to get here. We at the Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company have recognized a need for flexibility, thanks to the pandemic shedding light on an audience that we were not accommodating to – our virtual audience. We are motivated and confident in the implementation of some changes in the pursuit to improve and expand our programming for this year. Our efforts are rewarded
as we continue to see our engagement increase, and it can only go up from here! These last couple years gave us a gift to recognize a need for flexibility, thanks to the pandemic igniting a flame to continue to innovate, as we have found new ways to engage with our membership and community through virtual experiences. I cannot thank you enough for showing up. The membership of Vermillion’s Chamber of Commerce grew by a record number last year. It’s impressive – with small and large businesses, leading regional institutions, diverse non-profits, and companies from a multitude of industry sectors throughout the region. I encourage companies to engage with our incredible team to experience the value that the Chamber has to offer to you and your business. I am so proud of the amazing team at the Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company. They are driven, passionate about our vision, and committed to our mission as we progress toward growth and evolution. We are grateful to all of you as members and supporters of the important work we do and look forward to partnering with you on that vision. Thank you for showing up at events, reading our VERB magazines, volunteering, and connecting with our staff. Keep making the most of your membership. I look forward to working with you and your business to continue growing the Vermillion Area and the greater region.
Winter 3
Viewpoint
From the Outgoing Chair In 2021, to begin the snowball of award nominations and receptions, the VCDC received a Bronze Telly Award for the Standstill Parade of Lights Broadcast in the Live Events category. At the Mid-America Chamber Executives (MACE) Awards in May 2021, the VCDC was nominated for three of six awards: “Resilience in the Face of Adversity,” “Executive of the Year,” and “Public Policy of the Year.” You read that right, folks… that’s half of the awards. To wrap up the year, the VCDC was awarded the “Overcoming Adversity” award in Chicago at the Mid-America Economic Development Council’s annual conference.
“THE VCDC RECEIVED A NUMBER OF PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS IN 2021. ONWARD AND UPWARD FROM HERE!” Scott Pohlson
With the end of 2021 came the end of my tenure as the
Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company’s (VCDC) Chair of the Board. It has been my honor to serve as Chair of the Board these past two years, and to help lead the efforts of the VCDC during a very tumultuous and challenging time. As the outgoing Chair, I cannot express enough gratitude to all my fellow Board Members and to our entire membership and staff for the trust placed in me during a critical time, and for the answers you provided throughout this difficult year. If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that adaptability is imperative if a company or organization is going to thrive. I’m proud to say that we’ve done that – we’ve adapted, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed. In fact, the VCDC stood out amongst its peers and was gifted several prestigious awards throughout last year.
These awards symbolize the outstanding efforts that the VCDC was able to make in partnership with the Vermillion community and the surrounding area. I’m incredibly proud of the team at the VCDC, and I am confident that they will feed off the momentum from the recognition they received last year as they move into the new one. Before I conclude, I want to give a warm welcome to the incoming Board Chair, Jeff Erickson, and recognize his tireless efforts this past year as the Vice Chair. Jeff’s talent and commitment will continue serving the VCDC and our members very well, and I ask that you join me in wishing him the very best for his tenure in 2022. Again, thank you for the opportunity to serve in this role. Together, we not only weathered the storm, but we pursued opportunities to position the Vermillion Area for even greater success in the future. It has been a sincere pleasure to be a part of it all. - Scott Pohlson
Winter 4
MAKING
BIG THINGS
POSSIBLE,
& ENSURING
SMALL
THINGS NEVER FEEL SMALL.
We’re First Bank & Trust. A community bank that understands the unique needs of our community and the people who make it great. – Contact us today!
Andy Schulz
Community Bank President
20 E MAIN STREET
VERMILLION
605.624.2608
WWW.BANKEASY.COM
Events Winter Events in Review End-of-the-year ribbon cuttings
The
Vermilion Area Chamber & Development Company hosted a number of ribbon cuttings to close out 2021. The W.H. Over Museum and Masaba both celebrated the completion of expansion projects; Robotics of Vermillion celebrated a beautiful new space; and Janitorial Supply Warehouse celebrated the opening of their business! It is so exciting to see existing businesses expanding and deepening their roots in Vermillion- we are also thrilled to see new businesses making their way to the Vermillion Area!
W.H. Over Museum Janitorial Supply Warehouse
Robotics of Vermillion
Winter 6
EVENTS
6th annual standstill parade of lights
On December 2nd, 2021, the VCDC held its annual Standstill Parade of Lights on Main Street. It was truly one for
the record books. Not only was the weather beautiful, but the community supported the event in full force. Whether you were there to sing, dance, drink hot chocolate (or all three), we were thrilled to have you there to help us bring in the spirit of the season, as a community. We had over 20 float entries, a number of supporting and participating individuals and organizations from around the community, and we saw hundreds of attendees!
BioMat USA Float
As always, awards were handed out for the top parade entrants, chosen by a panel of judges including Annual Banquet essay winners Ben, Keaton, and Elli; Kathryn Birkeland (USD & United Way) and Bekki Enquist-Schroeder (Wynie Mae’s & Exhale Wellness Spa). Emcees Katey Ulrich (USD), Chair of the Vermillion NEXT Young Professionals Network and Marcus Destin, Social Media & Brand Engagement Coordinator at USD, helped run the festive show. USD Chamber Singers
Parade float winners: 1st place winner: Mart Brothers Construction @martbrothersconstruction https://martbrothersconstruction.com 2nd place winner: BioMat USA Vermillion @BiomatVermillion https://www.grifolsplasma.com/en/-/vermillion-sd
3rd place winner: Knutson Family Dentistry @KFDsince77 https://www.knutsonfamilydentistry.com We want to thank everyone who submitted a float for this year’s Standstill Parade of Lights! See you again in 2022!
VCDC Annual Golf Social
Santa (Kevin O’Kelley)
Winter 7
EVENTS
VCDC RED Talks
This fall, the VCDC concluded its 2021 RED Talks series, dedicated
to spreading “Conceptualized Community Collaboration” through a series of business luncheons. These luncheons serve as a way for individuals and businesses to stay up-to-date on relevant topics and network with other professionals.
December RED Talk
On Thursday, October 14th, 2021, Hailie Warren, USD’s Director of Public Relations and Brand Engagement, gave a presentation on how to build dynamic employee culture. This conversation also covered successful strategies used by USD. On December 9th, panelists from a range of specialties discussed the Pandemic in the 21st Century and what was being seen on the academic, medical, and physiological fronts of the coronavirus pandemic. Thank you to Michelle Chaussee, Kevin O’Kelley, Rachel Olson, and Damon Alvey for providing your insights! All VCDC RED Talks for 2021 were hosted at the Old Lumber Company Grill & Bar and sponsored by CorTrust Bank, First Dakota National Bank, Bank of the West, Edward Jones, Vermillion Medical Clinic, and Pizza Ranch. Thank you to our host and to our wonderful RED Talk Sponsors!
Dakota farm Show
The Dakota Farm Show was once again hosted in the city of Vermillion at the DakotaDome from January 4th - 6th, 2022. The event showcased hundreds of exhibitors representing over 1,000 agricultural products and services. Agricultural producers from South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, and Minnesota were invited to exhibit or check out the latest farm technology focused on improving yields, reducing costs, and managing risk.
The Northland Ford dealers and WNAX radio also gave away a Ford Bronco on the last day of the show! The VCDC was proud to support the Dakota Farm Show.
“Solutions are problems given to the right people.”
Business Development | Personal & Professional Networking | Technical Design The strategy to achieve your personal and professional goals. ThirdsMedia, LLC | Vermillion, SD | 303-621-5065
Winter 8
EVENTS
CITY COUNCIL
CITY DEPARTMENTS
MAYOR Kelsey Collier-Wise
911 Service Administration Airport Bluffs Golf Course Code Enforcement Engineering Finance Fire-EMS Landfill
CENTRAL WARD Katherine Price Lindsey Jennewein NORTHEAST WARD Julia Hellwege Travis Letellier NORTHWEST WARD Howard Willson Brian Humphrey SOUTHEAST WARD Rich Holland Council President
Steve Ward Council Vice President
Light & Power Parks & Recreation Police Public Library Recycling Center Street Water Waste Water
The City Council meets on the 1st & 3rd Monday of each month at 7pm in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Visit the City's website to view or subscribe to receive agendas, City Council packets, meeting reports, or other City information. Winter 9
25 Center Street I 605.677.7050 I www.vermillion.us
EVENTS
45
TTO DOH THIS I NSEASON GS
1.
2.
VCDC Annual Banquet
Gamelan exhibit @ Nmm
Mark your calendars for April 21st, 2022! This year’s
Looking for some springtime excitement? Mark your
annual banquet will be unlike any banquet in the past. The night will showcase community awards, live entertainment, delicious food, and a touch of glitz and glamour! Plus a couple of surprises, too! More information will be available at www.livevermillion.com.
Winter 10
calendar - the National Music Museum’s next special exhibition opens on March 25th! Gamelan - A way of Life! Celebrate the music and instruments of the Kyai Rengga Manis Everist Gamelan and discover how Gamelan is a reflection of Indonesian lessons, values, and culture. For more information, check out www.nmmusd.org.
EVENTS
3.
grab a coffee at up next coffee hour
The VCDC has Up NEXT Coffee Hour programming year-round, and what better time to
start attending than at the beginning of a new year! Each week brings new speakers, new topics, and delicious, hot coffee. If you want to know more about what’s coming “Up NEXT” in the community, this is the perfect event for you! Wednesday mornings from 8:30 am - 9:30 am at McVicker Plaza (2 E. Main St), on Facebook Live via @LiveVermillion, or on Local Channel 3.
4. Take the ‘Polar’ Plunge Contribute
to a great cause this spring and participate in the 2022 Polar Plunge! The Polar Plunge is an annual fundraiser presented by South Dakota Law Enforcement to benefit Special Olympics. All you have to do is raise $100 and take a dip into the frigid waters on Saturday, March 26th, 2022 at Old Lumber Company! If you want to learn more about this great event, or if you would like to register, check out their website at www.plungesd.org.
Winter 11
EVENTS
March 2
11
17
Up NEXT coffee Hour
NMM Live! Maggie in the Meantime
St. Patrick’s Day! vermillion next third thursday social
8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza
5-8
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm National Music Museum
4:30 pm - 6:30pm
Summit league Tournament
Denny Sanford Center Sioux Falls, SD
NMM Live! - Bel Canto Duo 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm National Music Museum
26 Polar Plunge
16
up next coffee hour
9
25
8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza
23 up next coffee hour 8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza
Old Lumber Company Plunge starts @ 2:00 pm
30
up next coffee hour 8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza
up next coffee hour 8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza
April 2-3
48th Annual Wacipi USD Dakota Dome
6
up next coffee hour 8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza
10
NMM Live! - Valencia Baryton Project 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm National Music Museum
13
up next coffee hour 8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza
8-10
Fool’s 48 Film Competition
Hosted by the VCA vermculture.org/fools48
Winter 12
14 vcdc red talks (State of the City) 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Valiant Vineyards Winery
18-28
Earth Days Celebrations
GreeningVermillion.org
20
up next coffee hour 8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza
21 VCDC Annual Banquet 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Sanford Coyote Sports Center
22
NMM Live! - Finck & Kilbride 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm National Music Museum
23
VHS Hall of Fame Banquet 6:00 pm @ Old Lumber Company
27
up next coffee hour 8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza
EVENTS
May 4
11
up next coffee hour
up next coffee hour
8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza
8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza
7 USD Graduation Sanford Coyote Sports Center
18 up next coffee hour 8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza
19
25
vermillion next third thursday social
up next coffee hour
4:30 pm - 6:30pm
8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza
20 Nmm LivE! Reeves & Check
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm National Music Museum
Winter 13
Feature story
Main Street Makeover It is officially 2022, and Vermillion is entering the new year with a beautiful, extensive face lift. The “Streetscape Project” is coming into conclusion after $3.5 million was invested into downtown Vermillion to make the four-block area of Main Street (between Dakota and Market streets) safer for pedestrians and bicyclists while also being more accessible and attractive for public events. The project began back in April 2021 and has since concluded, despite supply chain issues, weather, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The project was originally proposed back in 2018 and was discussed in the community for two years before the work began early last year. The Vermillion Downtown Streetscape Project had certain goals in mind: create a space that is great for public events; make downtown Vermillion a destination; increase accessibility for all ability levels; provide more space for pedestrians; increase safety for bicyclists, pedestrians, and drivers; and draw attention to Vermillion’s history and architecture. Designers developed a plan to make it easier for pedestrians to walk around downtown. Wider sidewalk bump-outs were created to reduce the amount of time it takes for pedestrians to cross the street, and to make pedestrians and vehicles more visible to one another. These bump-outs also provide space that may be used by adjacent businesses or for downtown events. Bike racks were added to these bump-outs so people could park their bikes, encouraging residents and visitors to walk around and enjoy their time downtown. Large tree planters have been installed that include lights which illuminate the foliage of each tree. Shrubs and flowers will have a new place to grow at all the bump-outs, adding greenery to downtown.
fast facts Project Proposed in 2018 - Construction began in 2021.
Winter 14
Wase Wakpa means “valley of the paint” or Vermillion in Lakota.
$3.5 million investment made by city of vermillion
New streetlights were put in place along both sides of Main Street. Brick pillars and columns were erected near street corners, donning the name of each street. Some of the existing parking spaces were removed on Main Street, but the City of Vermillion has plans to add diagonal parking on Kidder Street to offset any parking spaces lost in the redesign of downtown.
“Regardless of the challenges, the end result will provide Vermillion with many years of safe and usable spaces that will be enjoyed by the community for decades to come.” - Jose Dominguez, City Engineer
The project was particularly difficult because of its location, the sheer number of improvements that had to be completed, and the additional requirement that businesses were to remain accessible during construction. However, the long-term benefits that will be reaped from this renovation project are innumerable. Not only will downtown be a safer place for pedestrians, but this “Main Street Makeover” will assist in attracting visitors and potential residents to the Vermillion Area.
Winter 15
Chamber welcome our newest members!
Vital
The Lumberyard 1000 W. Cherry St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.624.2058 Locally owned and operated! Get your building supplies and take advantage of the design center at the Lumberyard! Established in 2021. Electronic Frog Advertising 1600 W. St. Yankton, SD 57078 605.661.7075
AG OPPortunities, Inc. 1919 W. Cherrry St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.624.6240 AG OPPortunities, Inc. is a family-owned grain elevator located in Vermillion, SD. Our facility is set up to provide you the services you need, when you need them. Multiple locations and dump sites mean we process your grain faster and get you back on the road sooner. We pride ourselves on providing quality service, teamed with short lines, especially during the busy harvest season.
Outside of a Dog Books & Games LLC 5 Court St. Vermillion, SD 57069 614.545.8889 https://outsideofadogsd.com FB: @OutsideofaDog Outside of a Dog Books & Games is Vermillion’s community center for literary and gaming events- a place to find your next favorite book or board game, a home for your book club, and the headquarters for your next gaming campaign. Whether you need a unique gift for a loved one or a fun beach read, we’re your new best friend!
Winter 16
Chamber
Hot Plate 404 Bower St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.658.0164 FB: @HotPlate404 Hot Plate offers Indian cuisine that can be enjoyed as a dine-in meal or delivered right to your door via DoorDash. Check them out for lunch or supper- you won’t be disappointed and your taste buds won’t be either! Glass Act PO Box 136 Yankton, SD 57078 605.670.9085 FB: @glassactyankton Patti and Paul of Glass Act Window Cleaning provide the utmost professional window cleaning for commercial and residential properties. You can call them to set up your free estimate! Farm Bureau Financial Services - Jon Cole 120 E. Main St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.624.3011 FB: @JonColeAgency At Farm Bureau Financial Services, we’re about more than just insurance - we’re about you, your family and those moments that matter. As a Farm Bureau agent, I want to help make sure you have the coverage you need and are prepared for what lies ahead. Special Olympics South Dakota/Law Enforcement Torch Run
800 E. 1-90 Lane Sioux Falls, SD 57104 605.331.4117 https://sosd.org/home.html Special Olympics is founded on the belief that people with intellectual disabilities can, with proper instruction and encouragement, learn, enjoy, and benefit from participation in individual and team sports. Saunders Chiropractic
717 E. Main St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.624.8822 https://saunderschiro.com Dr. William Saunders is a chiropractor serving Vermillion and the surrounding area. Our chiropractor and the rest of the welcoming team at Saunders Chiropractic are committed to providing chiropractic solutions to address your unique needs, whether you are experiencing back pain, neck pain, headaches, or even muscular tightness and tension. You may be searching for pain relief after an accident, experiencing an injury, or if you suffer from a specific condition like chronic back pain or a spinal condition. Even if you looking to improve your overall health, our chiropractor can help you attain your everyday wellness goals!
Winter 17
Chamber
Verbatim
Member News
Sesdac, Inc. Renovation Project We are pleased to announce the completion of Sesdac, Inc. Renovation Project. In efforts to continue to meet the needs of the people we support and make the building more welcoming and friendlier, we recognized that a renovation was needed. Designed by Fiegen Construction, the project includes the renovation of all activity rooms and offices; created more private work spaces; updated the fitness area, break room and restrooms; and added an upgraded air filtration system, new carpet and new furniture for part of the building. Our group homes have also seen a new air filtration system and will get more updates like new paint and new carpet in the near future. The entire cost was covered from grant funds received in early January, 2021. Thanks to a 2019 donation from Midwest Ready Mix & Equipment, Inc. we were finally able to acquire new equipment for the sensory room and transform it into a very relaxing and calming environment for the people we support. Recently we have resumed the Day Services Program at the Center and we are very pleased to see everyone’s reaction to those changes and hear all the positive and nice compliments. We would like to thank everyone who was involved with this project: Fiegen Construction, Midwest Ready Mix & Equipment, Inc., and last, but not least, our entire Sesdac team for all the hard work and dedication.
Vermillion Public Library New to 2022 is Kanopy, our new video streaming service, and OverDrive digital Comics & Graphic Novels. Our pre-school programs are Monday-Thursday and our afterschool programs are Monday-Friday at 3:45 pm! Check out our website/social media or stop by the library for dates on our monthly Lunch & Learn program, Blind Date with a Book, Edie’s Booksale, adult winter reading challenge, and other upcoming programs.
Wells Fargo Bank We’re happy to say that our lobby is back to being open and we are open Monday through Friday from 9-5. Due to our increase in lobby traffic and our growing community we have three new full-time employees: one banker named Christian and two tellers named Cooper and Hannah. If you see any of our new employees in the branch, please say hi! We are so excited to see the community face-to-face in the branch again!
Winter 18
Chamber “Gamelan: A Way of Life” opens March 25 in the Groves Gallery for Special Exhibitions “Learning about gamelan music is learning about life,” according to gamelan master Midiyanto. Celebrate the music and instruments of the Kyai Rengga Manis Everist Gamelan and discover how gamelan is a reflection of Indonesian lessons, values, and culture. Originating in Indonesia centuries ago and varying by region, Gamelan means “ensemble” and refers to a revered set of mostly percussion instruments, crafted and tuned to be played together. Themes to be explored in this special exhibit include: “Unity in Diversity,” “Permanence and Impermanence,” and the “Inevitable Gong.” The exhibit is free and open to the public at the National Music Museum through the summer months on Thursdays and Fridays from 10 am to 4 pm and on Saturdays from 12 pm to 4 pm. Tour the NMM and Center for Preservation and Research Take a closer look at the NMM’s progress and planned exhibitions during a series of open house events to be held at the National Music Museum and the Museum’s offsite Center for Preservation and Research this spring. Staff will be on-hand to answer questions and walk guests through the facilities, providing insight and information on the ongoing exhibition renovations in the NMM’s original Carnegie building following our NMM Live! concerts on the following Fridays: • •
Sunday, April 10th, 1-4 pm Friday, May 20th, 1-4 pm
The Center for Preservation and Research, located at 1225 Carr St. (next to Polaris on Highway 50), will be open for public tours on the following dates: • •
Saturday, April 16, 9 am-1pm Sunday, July 24, 12- 4pm
NMM Live! Concert Series The NMM’s concert series, NMM Live!, will continue this spring with a series of Friday noon concerts, as well as and extended Sunday afternoon performance. All concerts are held in in the National Music Museum’s Janet Wanzek Performance Hall in Vermillion, SD. Admission is free. Below is the schedule for the remainder of the year: • • • • • •
Friday, March 11 (12:00 pm) - Maggie in the Meantime, Celtic Friday, March 25 (12:00 pm) – Bel Canto Duo, oboe & cello Sunday, April 10 (2:00 p.m.) - Valencia Baryton Project, baryton, violin & viola trio Friday, April 22 (12:00 pm) - Jared Finck and Dan Kilbride, local favorites Friday, May 6 (12:00 pm) Dwight Lamb, Bill Peterson and John Everist, Danish folk music Friday, May 20 (12:00 pm) - Deborah Check Reeves and John Check, Klezmer music
Indigo Spa has moved! Indigo has moved to a larger location on Main St. two doors down from the Varsity Pub. In November, Indigo launched a new makeup line, Jane Iredale Cosmetics, aka the skincare makeup. Drop in and try out the colors and feel good knowing the ingredients benefit your complexion. More information at IndigoVermillionSpa.com.
Winter 19
Chamber Updates from Lambeth Law Office Lambeth Law Office is a general legal practice that seeks to provide compassionate legal representation to the people of southeastern South Dakota. It has been a fun and busy year at Lambeth Law Office. Returning to Vermillion in April 2021, Lambeth Law Office has hit the ground running, with clients lined up well before its official restart date- people were calling Kasen for representation before he’d even announced his plans to resume his practice. This experience has been great for Kasen, who has successfully represented clients in ever more diverse fields of the law. LLO (as it is affectionately referred to by Kasen and his wife Beth) was honored in June 2021 to be selected as the new legal services provider for the students of the University of South Dakota. In this regard, Kasen has been able to share his passion for helping others with the student body by such vehicles as the Know Your Rights campaign and passionate representation of those students who require a helping hand to guide them through their legal difficulties. In July 2021, LLO was honored by the people of Vermillion and surrounding areas during its ribbon cutting, put on by the VCDC. Initially planning for a turnout of around 15, LLO received easily double that figure. Thankfully, Pizza Ranch and Varsity Pub saved the day by providing fresh pizza and drinks for hungry visitors! LLO was graciously provided another opportunity to offer compassionate legal representation in September 2021 when it was offered a chance to serve as one of three public defenders for Union County. Because of this opportunity, LLO will also be opening a second office in Elk Point! Kasen is genuinely touched by the massive outpouring of support that the Vermillion community has shown his business. If it weren’t for the wonderful community that is Vermillion, the efforts of the hardworking people at VCDC and VermillionNext, and all of those mentors along the way, Kasen’s dream of having a viable solo law practice would have never gained traction.
Thank you from Mazing Acres Just like that, another fabulous fall season has come and gone. We give many, many thanks to our wonderful guests, our generous sponsors, our top notch staff, and our supportive family & friends! Mazing Acres Pumpkin Patch wouldn’t survive without all our fans!!! So thank you for believing in us, visiting us, and sharing about us! We look forward to bringing you new attractions in 2022 and a new adventure with Mazing Porches… your concierge pumpkin delivery & design service. Mazing Porches will bring fall to your home, office, school, or sorority! Mark your calendar for August 1, 2022, when we will open up porch pumpkin ordering. Limited spots available!
Vermillion Walmart is hiring for multiple positions! To apply text jobs to 240240 or go to careers.walmart.com Starting wage $17.00-$20.50 Full-Time = 40 Hours = Set shift = Set days off
Benefits
Winter 20
> Free college degree
> Paid Maternity Leave
> Discount card
> Medical, Dental, Vision
Chamber
Vested Co-Lab Rental Spaces
Featured Member Benefit
As a member of the Chamber of Commerce, you receive priority access to McVicker Plaza’s conference spaces for your company’s meetings and events. We welcome you to come and enjoy our modern collaborative spaces - sometimes, the best thing to do to increase productivity is move to a dfferent environment. The best part? As a member, you get a certain amount of rental hours for free every year! The Co-Lab offers 1,406 square feet of co-working space, as well as three meeting rooms with technology options to suit a variety of needs. Wi-Fi, mailboxes, printing, and 24/7 access with key-card entry is all available. Contact us if you want to rent a space, today!
villagers
Keri Dodd - American Family insurance
American Family Insurance – Beukelman & Associates Inc. is excited to announce the addition of Keri Dodd as our Sales Specialist for Life, Disability, and Long Term Care. Keri is a resident of Gayville and works in Vermillion and the surrounding area. In addition to American Family Life Insurance Company, Keri has access to many other insurance companies through B&A Insurance Solutions and their related partner companies. Keri wants you to know that whether it’s life or disability insurance, she has options for individuals of all ages, and all health statuses, and offers group plans as well! “We’ve had a lot of interest from employers who want to offer their employees disability insurance as a retention tool! We offer nearly every Long Term Care Insurance company on the market, so we can meet your needs”
Shawna Kleinwolterink - Plains Commerce Bank We’re excited to share that our own Shawna K. Kleinwolterink was named South Dakota Housing Development Authority’s Top Loan Officer for Area 4! Shawna is an asset to the bank, and we’re excited to see her recognized with this award for the THIRD time!
Veronica Schmidt, CEO - Sanford Vermillion “I am home.” Those are the words I whispered to my husband as we drove into Vermillion to set me up to get started as the next Senior Director for Sanford Vermillion Medical Center. I started my career at Sanford Vermillion in 1995 as a new graduate of the USD Social Work Program and worked in various roles until 2011 when I left to be the CEO at the hospital and nursing home in Custer, SD. I most recently served as the CEO of Melham Medical Center, a critical access hospital in Broken Bow, Nebraska. Sanford Vermillion, the Vermillion community, and USD invested in me and influenced me greatly as a young professional years ago. I am looking forward to the opportunity to give back now as I return to where it all started and reacquainting myself with the Sanford Vermillion team who delivers daily on the promise of providing excellent care.
Winter 21
Chamber
Jon Cole - Farm Bureau Financial Services Jon has made Vermillion home since 2012 and in that time worked for the Vermillion Police Department until December of 2021 to where after 16 years total in law enforcement he moved to the insurance and financial planning. As an agent with Farm Bureau, he can continue to help protect others with their property and future. Jon continues to be an active role in community organizations and being a large supporter of Special Olympics. Farm Bureau is so much more than insurance. They get to know their clients and customize their plan to fit their needs and future. If it is home, auto, life, commercial, health, annuity, retirement, estate planning, college funding, or agriculture protection, they can do it all under one roof. Give Jon a call today - (605) 624.3011.
Melissa Eberts - VCDC - Marketing & Tourism Manager The VCDC is proud to annouce the promotion of Melissa Eberts, as she moves from her previous role as Executive Assistant to Communications & Tourism Manager. Melissa has been employed full-time at the VCDC since June 2019, and had completed a spring internship as a Communications Intern prior to employment. In her new role, Melissa manages all mass communications from the VCDC and social media platforms. She also manages the creation and production of the VERB and the annual Visitor’s Guide. If you are a chamber member and need help promoting your business, Melissa is your girl! You can reach her at our VCDC Office (605) 624.5571 or via email at Melissa@VermillionChamber.com.
Grace Mancy - VCDC - Events Coordinator Meet Grace! Grace Mancy joined the VCDC team in November 2021 as the Events Coordinator for the company. She graduated from USD with an undergraduate degree in Business Administration in 2021, completing a summer events internship at the VCDC before coming back as a full-hire. Born in Toledo, Ohio to third-generation business owners, Grace’s first job was checking coats at the family business, Mancy’s Steak House, originally opened in 1921. Grace grew up playing hockey before transitioning to soccer in the fourth grade, eventually playing on the USD women’s soccer team for all four years of college. After graduation, she decided to stay in Vermillion because she loves the community and its small-town feel.You can reach Grace at our VCDC Office (605) 624.5571 or via email at Grace@VermillionChamber.com.
Helen Falda - VCDC - Volunteer & operations Coordinator Helen is the new operations coordinator at the VCDC. She graduated from USD with her undergraduate studies in Spanish to enrich her knowledge of the languages. She recently graduated from her master’s degree in sport management as she is very passionate about sports and event management. Helen was born in Turin, Italy. When she was 20 years old, she decided to move across the world and become a student athlete in the United States. First in Texas, then right here in Vermillion. She competed for five years in NCAA track and field as a pole vaulter, and she is a 7 x All-American in the sport. After graduation, she was not ready to go back to Italy yet. She feels like Vermillion is her home now and she loves working at the VCDC as she takes care of the operations and sport events of the company. You can reach Helen at our VCDC office (605) 624.5571 or via email at Helen@VermillionChamber.com.
Winter 22
Chamber
Velocity Young Professionals
mark that acts as a reminder that no matter what your story is, you are respected, loved, welcomed and supported. Your differences create barriers only if you let them, but if used right, they can create an appreciation and respect for each other that brings us even closer together. Vermillion has grown so much since I have lived here and it continues to expand quickly. I hope this means a Taco Bell or Applebees is in the future... that 2 for $20 is calling my name.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years? Twenty?
What is your name, and where can folks find you most of the time? My name is Marcus Destin, and most of the time, you can find me obviously front row at a Coyote game, Coyote Twin Theater, or The Bean, grabbing a hot chai tea latte with almond milk and whip cream.
I’ll be honest--I stopped watching the clock and decided to live in the moment more. A lot of times, I’ve felt the need to rush my time in Vermillion because I was afraid people would get tired of me running and jumping around, but I want to appreciate my time and my community while I’m here, to my fullest. I only hope I can still make some kind of difference wherever I am, but I know that no matter where that may be, Vermillion will be with me.
How did you first begin participating in Vermillion NEXT? Hailie Warren told me about Vermillion NEXT when I started working with her and invited me to come to Third Thursdays and Thursdays on the Platz, and now we use it as bonding time as a team.
What do you hope to accomplish in the community? How do you see Vermillion evolving? I want to show everyone outside of and in Vermillion that Vermillion can be more than just a stepping stone to the next chapter of your life. Vermillion can be home. I want it to be known that Vermillion is a place where anyone can come and find something for themselves. I want to leave a
Winter 24
Vermillion NEXT welcomes the following new members: Aaron Mercado Marcus Destin Zbynek Surovec Grace Mancy Kate Solberg Anna Casey Kyle Singh Greywall
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Economic development
vErmillion-Now! 3 Total Employment in clay county, sd 2008 5,761
(cewq)
-62
2013 5,699
+259
2018 5,958
Median household income Clay County, SD South Dakota
2008 $39,784 + 5.5%
2013 $41,970 + 7.7%
2018 $44,943 + 12%
2019 $50,724
- 1.96%
$52,791 + 7.0%
$56,521 + 4%
$58,275
$53,874
Housing property values Vermillion, SD clay county, sd
Winter 26
2013 $345,879,701 + 24.6% $904,079,831
+ 33.9%
2018
$431,077,354 $1,204,524,0871
chamber memberships
Economic development
100+ businesses in 10 years
2008 2013 2018
153
+24%
191
+63%
2019 2020 2021
250 +30%
2022
253
+1%
271
+7%
281
+4%
283 +1%
construction building permits investments
2008 - 2012 127.4 $5.4M
Five year avg. +38.78% four year avg. +212.96%
2013 - 2017 $176.8 2014 - 2017 $16.9M
2017 - 2020 $225M 2017 - 2020 $87.8M
city tax revenues sales tax property tax sales tax property tax
2008 $3,513,311 $1,620,498 2018 $4,007,796 $2,240,258
- .36% + 24.93% + 8.5% + 9.9%
2013 $3,500,823 $2,024,530
+14.48% +10.66%
2020 $4,351,784 $2,462,789
Winter 27
Economic development
Why Vermillion?
Chris Kassin
addition provided a home perfect for a young and growing family. Our children, Collins (8) and Kellen (5), are busy and involved in an activity almost every night. Vermillion offers an abundance of activities for our children while still maintaining a small-town feeling. And of course, we enjoy attending as many USD events as possible. It is quite a luxury to have such high-quality athletic and performing arts events right here.
How are you wanting to get more involved in the unique community of Vermillion?
Where are you from?
My family moved around significantly when I was a child. We lived in several states from Maryland to Oregon before finding a home in South Dakota. I graduated from Huron High School. By living in so many different areas, it is easy to appreciate what South Dakota has to offer.
What inspired you to move to Vermillion?
I was given an opportunity to finish my undergraduate degree in criminal justice and be a member of the men’s basketball team at the University of South Dakota. This was a life-changing move for me. I am thankful each day for this opportunity which springboarded me into a basketball coaching career after graduation. I spent 11 years as an assistant men’s basketball coach at USD. We had incredible success while also transitioning from NCAA Division II to NCAA Division I. I have lifelong memories of spending time with the wonderful coaches and studentathletes I was privileged to work with. From there I moved into an athletic development role with the University of South Dakota Foundation. I continued to live in Vermillion while serving as Vice President for Strategy and Athletic Director at Mount Marty University. This past May, I returned to the University of South Dakota Foundation as Vice President, External Relations. My wife, Katie Kassin, has a similar story of opportunity. She came to Vermillion from Colome, South Dakota. She received her undergraduate degree in Biology before attending the Physicians Assistant Program at USD. She practiced at Siouxland Urology in Dakota Dunes for 10 years before returning to USD as an assistant professor in the Physician Assistant Program. She is currently a practicing PA at Sanford in Vermillion. We have a lovely family and enjoy all Vermillion and Southeast South Dakota has to offer. The Bliss Point
Winter 28
As a result of the tremendous opportunities my family has been afforded in this area, I made the decision to run for the South Dakota House of Representatives for District 17. This is the district that represents Vermillion. I have lived in this community for over 20 years, but there is still much for me to learn. During this election process, I hope to learn so much more about what has been accomplished and what can be accomplished to keep Vermillion a special place to live and work. During my time at Mount Marty University, I studied the Benedictine charism. One of the tenants is to “listen with the ear of your heart.” I will bring this approach as I continue to listen to our constituents. I have talked to several people just within the last month and many share stories of opportunity very similar to mine and my wife’s.
What are some of the aspects you really enjoy about the community and how have you grown here?
I talked earlier about our daughter Collins. She is a spunky, fun-loving, keep-you-on-your-toes kind of kid. However, she was born with a genetic disorder, Cystic Fibrosis. This is a disease which affects the respiratory and digestive systems. She takes several pills and does breathing and airway clearing treatments each day. We were young parents and did not know what we could do to help. Well, what we found was the Vermillion community has joined us arm and arm in our fight to find a cure. To see the community rally around our daughter and this cause brings tears to our eyes. We are so fortunate for the generosity of so many. Vermillion cares. What started as a small fundraiser in our backyard has now grown to a block party which raises over $20,000 a year. The compassion this community has shown gave timid parents a voice. I would also be remiss if I did not mention the love and support shown by the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN), especially through Dakotathon. This is a USD student-run event to raise money and bring happiness to little kiddos like Collins. The students we have met are so passionate and so impressive. They have also helped us find our voice.
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