The VERB - Spring & Summer 2021

SPRING & summer 2021

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.

spring answer: b

summer answer: D

Viewpoint Contributors VERB

spring Poll

What IS YOUR FAVORITE SPRING TIME ACTIVITY IN VERMILLION?

spring answer: A

summer answer: b

spring answer: A

summer answer: C

summer Poll

What are you most looking forward to doing in vermillion this summer?

results

@livevermillion

@VermillionSD

@VermillionSD

@VermillionSD

@VermillionSD

Megan davidson EDITOR

Melissa eberts CONTRIBUTOR

Facebook poll results

CLARE FIORE CONTRIBUTOR

Facebook poll

Here’s a neat little fact for you. Economic strength rankings were just released for 2021 for micropolitan areas (a micropolitan is described as a population between 10,000 and 50,000). Vermillion falls within that range, and is included in this analysis.

Excitingly, Vermillion has moved up the ranking ladder again, for the third year in a row. While Vermillion still struggles to be in the lower half of this over-500 micropolitan list, the momentum that Vermillion maintains as it moves up in ranking each year is undeniable. In the last 3 years, every year, Vermillion has jumped, on average, more than 50 communities in rankings.

While we know that South Dakota has been able to manage through the economic struggles of what COVID brought us in 2020 - and that, in no times do we celebrate our fellow SD communities in struggling – something that we should be proud of is that Vermillion is one of the only communities in South Dakota that improved its ranking this year, in spite of the global pandemic.

“i look at these numbers and i see so many reasons to be optimistic in 2021. it’s not difficult to see the glass is more than half-full.”

Even following the aftermath of one of the most tumultuous and challenging years most of us have faced, Vermillion saw one of the biggest agricultural business expansions in the state. Congrats again to Nutrien Ag Solutions!

Note from Nate

We broke ground on a major retail business for the area with Runnings, and in May 2021, broke ground on another major housing development in Vermillion as Phase II of Bisss Pointe begins, which will bring evenmore residential housing to Vermillion. Already, Bliss Pointe Phase I lots are nearing 100% sold.

We also managed to safely bring back a community favorite event - Thursdays on the Platz thanks to thoughtful and dedicated volunteers, and we again look forward to summer in Vermillion where we can unite at this favorite community event.

We continue to move the needle in progress and improvement, like we have done in past years. The downtown Streetscape project is a prime example. 2021 is a year that we can look forward to, as major economic development initiatives are in progress.

“we saw resiliency, we saw community, we saw grit - and we always can find vermillionaires caring for each other.”

I believe that many of us are hoping to see change from 2020 to 2021, but the one thing that will not change is that we are in this together.

From the Chair

I’m excited to serve as the Board Chair for the Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company for another year. They say that hindsight is 20/20, and the irony of that phrase is thick, especially after emerging from the past year.

“i can say with a great amount of pride that vermillion stood strong and stayed resilient through one of the most difficult years for mankind to have survived.”

Not only did we keep our footing, but we witnessed the community taking great strides toward an even brighter tomorrow.

When faced with the incredibly challenging circumstances surrounding the coronavirus pandemic and the implications of what a pandemic could have on the local economy, the VCDC found innovative ways to support and uplift the chamber membership. I know that a number of community members, as well as people outside of town, gave patronage to the Vermillion Victory Bond program by purchasing discounted gift cards, and the results were absolutely outstanding. Between all four rounds of this program, the total face-value of gift cards sold has reached over $289,000. The Vermillion Victory Bond program kept the dollars churning within the community, and brought some income to the local businesses during a peak time of need.

As the VCDC is all about collaboration and community, many things needed to change in order to host successful and safe events that were still engaging. Through these efforts, we saw a successful legislative session, with VCDC staff turning the traditional gatherings for the annual Cracker Barrels in February into virtual events so those interested in the political happenings at the Senate and House of Representative levels could ask questions and listen to Sen. Rusch, Rep. Vasgaard, and Rep. Davis discuss important bill topics. This continued in May with a series of Candidate Forums in the lead up to the June 8th Special Election.

We also launched a new business luncheon series titled ‘VCDC RED Talks’, all about conceptualized community collaboration, and locked in headliners like Congressman Dusty Johnson. The series takes place at Old Lumber Company on a bi-monthly basis throughout 2021.

We want to thank the community and our chamber members for the ongoing support and engagement with the VCDC. Even with virtual events, we still continued to see the citizens of Vermillion log on to participate and interact with VCDC staff, and that in itself showed that the efforts being made to continue to host events through the pandemic was worth it.

Events

standstill parade of lights featuring keloland broadcast

Event Recap

2020 was the year of our 5th Annual Standstill Parade of Lights. The event was held with additional COVID-19 measures as well as multiple ways for community members to enjoy the festivities held in downtown Vermillion.

On Thursday, December 3rd, community members and their families gathered in the heart of downtown Vermillion, SD to enjoy live music, floats, hot drinks, giveaways, and, of course, the lighting of the town holiday tree. The night wouldn’t have been complete without a visit from the big man of the season, Santa!

In light of the pandemic, there were some precautions and a variety of ways for individuals to enjoy the event. The event was streamed live on the VCDC Facebook page and on local Channel 3, for those who wanted to enjoy the event from their homes. The other big change of the night saw the official tree lighting ceremony moved to a later time of 8:00 pm to better assist with physical distancing measures. Thank you to Katey Ulrich and Jordan Bonstrom from Vermillion NEXT for being the energetic Facebook Live hosts.

This year’s Standstill Parade of Lights, presented by the National Music Museum and Scooter’s Coffee had so much to offer and there was a special buzz in the air. Throughout the night, camera crews were filming for a

special 30-minute holiday broadcast of the event, which aired one week later in prime time on KELOLAND TV on Thursday, December 10th.

This special broadcast where more than 23,000 households tuned in, was hosted by VCDC President & CEO Nate Welch, and USD Foundation’s Michelle Green in the McVicker Plaza studio, and street coverage brought by Mitchell Olson. The broadcast featured a sneak peek at the newly remodeled National Music Museum, a performance by the USD Chamber Singers, and interviews with USD President Shelia Gestring, and Vermillion Mayor, Kelsey Collier-Wise, along with many other special guests and surprises, including the heartwarming story on one of Vermillion’s own heroes, Collins Kassin.

At 8:00 pm, the tree lighting ceremony ramped up with a few special additions to the experience. Staff at Dakota Brick House brought back the tradition known as the ‘Vermillion Howl’ before Santa flicked the switch which saw local lighting wizard, Jonathan AllenderZivic produce a spectacular tree lighting experience featuring festive sparks and smoke effects.

BioMat Pharmaceuticals was the winner of the float competition with a Grinch inspired float. This event never fails to get the community excited for the season and everyone needed a little holiday cheer and this event delivered, once again.

Winner of the float competition - Biomat ‘Grinch’ style

Broadcast studio @ McVicker Plaza

EVENTS

On Saturday, February 13th and 27th, the VCDC’s Government Affairs Committee hosted District 17 legislators Senator Art Rusch, Representative Richard Vasgaard, and Representative Sydney Davis in the annual Legislative Cracker Barrels. These Q&A sessions were held as a way for local legislators to return and interact with the Vermillion community during the Legislative season.

This year, the event was hosted online and streamed through Facebook Live and local Channel 3 with McVicker Plaza open to a limited audience. Community members were encouraged to email, call in, and comment on the Facebook Live with questions and concerns. Questions were focused on topics ranging from marijuana, education, healthcare and the impact on Vermillion that the legislation may have.

Thank you to our event moderators, Amy Schweinle and Matt Fairholm. The event was sponsored by USD, BioMat Pharmaceuticals, CorTrust Bank, and the Clay County Republicans.

The VCDC revitalized and relaunched the Business Luncheon series that aims to share “Conceptualized Community Collaboration,” now known as the VCDC RED Talks. On February 23rd, Kelley Ashby from Kelley Ashby Consulting spoke on the topic of work/life balance, and shared proactive strategies to enhance resilience while attendees enjoyed a catered meal.

Then on April 8th, the VCDC RED Talks topic of ‘Legislative Affairs’ featured special guest Congressman Dusty Johnson, along with Senator Art Rusch and Representative Richard Vasgaard from District 17. Congressman Johnson is a USD alumnus and shared his experience at working on federal issues.

The events were held in person at Old Lumber Company, with a virtual ticket available for those who could not attend in person. The VCDC RED Talks are sponsored by Bank of the West, Edward Jones, First Dakota National Bank, Pizza Ranch, Vermillion Medical Clinic, and CorTrust Bank.

#LOVermillion week

What better way to celebrate our city than devoting a whole week to it? From February 14th-20th, Vermillion celebrated its 4th annual #LOVermillion Day, but this year it was expanded to a whole week!

The week was kicked off by celebrating a USD Coyote volleyball 3 set sweep against the Omaha Mavericks on the day of love, February 14th. Staff members of the Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company were present at the game, handing out free #LOVermillion masks to the first 500 attendees and a special airing of the VCDC’s ‘Truly, Madly, Deeply’ video.

During the week, an Instagram contest was held encouraging community members to post a picture of their favorite Vermillion locations. The “Vermillion Great 8” (or 13... we couldn’t narrow it down) was created to highlight some of the favorite tourist locations from around the area, ranging from historic Spirit Mound all the way to the Coyote Twin Theater. There are so many outstanding locations in Vermillion that we asked the community to give some love to their favorite, within “The Great 8” or not, by posting a picture on Instagram to be entered for a prize. Vermillion Victory Bonds also returned for the week to continue to show support for local Vermillion businesses. These discounted gift cards have been available in the past during the first city-wide ordinance in March 2020, during the early closure of restaurants and bars in August, in recognition of Dakota Days weekend, and now during #LOVermillion Week! This #LOVermillion Week was a good reminder of how inspiring and resilient our community is, even during trying times.

VCDC RED Talks - Work/Life Balance

candidate forums in lead up to special election

With the Municipal Election approaching on Tuesday, June 8th, 2021, the Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company facilitated six informative forums, all of which were open to the community.

These forums encouraged in-depth and engaging conversation between attendees (and viewers) with those closest to the issues and topics providing responses. Three of the forums were held in the City Hall Chambers during the regular Up NEXT Coffee Hour, and three in the auditorium at Vermillion High School.

The forums focused on the school board elections with candidates Shane Nordyke, Rachel Olson and Wade Larson in attendance and fielding questions by moderator, Nate Welch and the community.

With five candidates running in the Mayoral election, opening statements were heard from each followed

by a Q&A session with Craig Thompson moderating both sessions. A range of topics were covered from the downtown Streetscape project, to how the candidates would navigate relationships with key partners to the hot topic of allowing chickens in city limits. We want to thank the candidates for taking the time to attend the forums and for running in the upcoming election.

The final forums were dedicated to dialogue surrounding the Clay County Courthouse, Jail & Law Enforcement Center bond with both proponents and opponents. The first session was moderated by Dr Michael Card and the second by Dean Neil Fulton. Viewers heard passionate lobbying from both sides with numerous questions fielded on the potential location, the size, the inadequacies of the current courthouse and what the future will hold if the bond fails at the upcoming election. Forums took place throughout May 2021, and were available in-person, on Facebook Live and on Channel 3.

ACCOUNT DREAMS. for your

For 149 years and counting, we have been committed to serving our communities during good times and bad. No matter what life throws our way, we will continue to be here for you, helping you account for your dreams.

5 4

THINGS

TO DO THIS SEASON

1.

sd high school all-star football

Vermillion will once again host the best in state football at the SD High School All-Star Football Game. Athletes from around the state will vie for best in the state on Saturday June 12th, 2021 at the newly renovated DakotaDome. Along with the game, participants will be celebrated at the recognition banquet with keynote speaker, Sanford CEO Bill Gassen and other activities throughout the week. For ticket information, call the VCDC office at 605.624.5571 or visit LiveVermillion.com

2.

sd shakespeare festival

The works of William Shakespeare return to Prentis Park this summer as the South Dakota Shakespeare Festival presents a professional production of “Twelfth Night, or What You Will,” on June 17th through the 20th. In light of COVID-19, all rehearsals and performances will include careful mitigation procedures. Since 2012, SDSF has been producing free, world-class productions of the classic works of William Shakespeare and this year looks to be another summer of theatre excellence. Visit SDShakespearefestival.org for more information.

get outside and enjoy the season 3. 4.

With nice weather on the horizon, now is the time to get ready for Vermillion’s outdoor activities. Take full advantage of Cotton, Barstow, and Prentis Parks. Clay County Park is also a hotspot for all of your biking, hiking, and boating needs or take a quick walk to the top of Spirit Mound for picturesque views. The options for outdoor activities in the Vermillion Area are truly endless.

vcdc red talks

The VCDC RED Talks is the newly launched and revitalized business luncheon series, hosted by the VCDC. RED Talks is the place to share “Conceptualized Community Collaboration” and promote professional growth for employees at all stages. With relevant speakers and topics, you will have the opportunity to network and mingle. The talks are held bi-monthly with future sessions scheduled for June 17th ‘Outlooks and Opportunities’ with Edward Jones and August 12th ‘Social Media for all’ with Lawrence & Schiller.

vcdc golf social

Want to enjoy the nice weather and network with fellow VCDC and community members? Then look no further than the Annual VCDC Golf Social. Enjoy a round at the beautiful Bluffs Golf Course on June 21st and support the mission of the VCDC. Fun games and camaraderie will meet you on the course. Contact 605.624.5571 to register your team today!

sd special olympics

Special Olympics is an unprecendented global movement which, through quality sports training and competition, improves the lives of people with intellectual disabilities and, in turn, the lives of everyone they touch.

The Special Olympics South Dakota Summer Games will again return to Vermillion (after the cancellation of the 2020 event) on Saturday, June 26th, 2021. This one day event, held at the USD Lillibridge Track Complex will feature athletes competing in track and field events from the 50 m dash to softball throw and high jump, among others. Come and cheer on the athletes, or better yet, get involved by volunteering your time for this worthy cause. Contact the VCDC at vcdc@vermillionchamber. com to register your name.

7. thursdays on the platz

There’s no place like downtown Vermillion during the summer months, and there’s no other place to be each Thursday through July and August, except at Thursdays on the Platz. This community wide summer celebration sees live music, mixed with food vendors and a rotating brewery each week.

The 2021 summer music series will kick off on Thursday July 8th though August 26th and will be held in the City Hall parking lot and on Center St through National St.

25 Center Street

Vermillion, SD 57069

(605) 677-7050

info@cityofvermillion.com

Visit our website at www.vermillion.us for community information regarding, utilities, City Council agendas & minutes, and a list of City Departments. Subscribe to notifications and be notified of job openings or anytime an announcement, a bid, a meeting agenda, or City Council briefing is posted.

8.

splash about at prentis plunge

What’s summer without a visit to Southeast South Dakota’s premier aquatic center? Slide down one of two slides, float along the 180 foot lazy river, swim laps in the 25 meter pool or splash about in several open play areas including a zero depth entry pool.

Full concession stand with shaded area seating and a large grass area to soak up the rays. Buy your pool pass today through Vermillion Parks & Rec at 605.677.7064.

july

By Melissa Eberts

A year of possibilities

break ground in vermillion

Things have not slowed down in Vermillion, especially when it comes to the economic development initiatives within and surrounding the city above the bluff. The housing and retail scenes both continue to expand in step with the community, which becomes more and more developed with each passing year. While 2020 was a year where many communities pressed pause – on business expansion, residential developments, or both of the above – Vermillion pressed play.

One of Vermillion’s newest housing developments, Bliss Pointe, is 35 acres that sits on the edge of the beautiful Missouri River Bluffs. Excitingly, 70+ lots of varying sizes have been taken off of the market. To accommodate for the growing need for residential housing in Vermillion, Bliss Pointe Phase II is underway, as an expansion to the already-existing Bliss Pointe housing development. Bids were presented and the official ground broken in May 2021 (see the event pictures on page 17) with completion of the development anticipated by end of 2021 which will include an additional 50+ new lots.

Business recruitment and retention has excelled into 2021 in the Vermillion Area. In January 2020, Runnings, “your home, farm, and outdoor store,” announced the purchase of Campbell’s Supply Co. and soon after, in May 2020, purchased land for their new location. They have recently opened to the public, providing new jobs and a wide selection of trusted brands of clothing, footwear, pet supplies, housewares, tools, farm supplies, lawn and garden supplies, toys, and outdoor equipment. Their official ribbon cutting is scheduled for April 30th, 2021 providing a new opportunity of retail hubs for Vermillion.

A new Scooter’s Coffee location also broke ground in Vermillion and opened in October 2020, making Vermillion a hot spot for coffee lovers, and those wanting to take a cup with them on the go. The business community will continue to expand, thanks to the momentum that Vermillion has seen in the past year.

8 new businesses joined the vcdc in 2021 so far.

In the first six months of the year, the Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company welcomed 9 new members (8 businesses and 1 individual) to the chamber family of 265+ strong; a handful of these new members are newly established businesses or new to the community. There’s no denying that the consistency in growing numbers at the VCDC is a testament to the value of the membership.

A drive down Main Street in Downtown Vermillion will show that the work on the Streetscape Project is currently underway. The updates to downtown will increase the pedestrian space, and create a safer and more welcoming downtown experience for visitors and locals alike. Goals for the project include creating a space that’s great for public events; increasing 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. The project was given approval in March 2021, and shovels have broken ground. It is projected that the Streetscape Project, led by the Stockwell Engineer team and Schwartzle Construction, will be completed by the end of the year, or as early as October.

The VCDC engaged Ady Advantage, a national economic development consulting agency to undertake a target industry analysis to identify target industry opportunities to drive future industrial growth and diversification in Vermillion and the region.

The University of South Dakota also recently broke ground on an exciting addition to the college. A new health sciences building is being erected adjacent to the already-existing Andrew E. Lee Memorial Medicine and Science Building. The new facility will include classrooms, labs, simulation centers, and study spaces for students. The building will also feature a new dental hygiene clinic, thanks to a $1 million gift from Delta Dental. Construction is projected to be complete in August 2023.

fast Facts

bliss pointe has a current home count of 58, with median sales price of $160,000.

vcdc had 6 scheduled ribbon cuttings through april & may.

On Wednesday, May 12th, 2021 at 4:00 pm, the Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company held the official groundbreaking event for the Bliss Pointe Phase II housing development at the corner of Stanford St. and Rockwell Tr.

Over 60 attendees heard speeches from Mayor Collier-Wise who showed gratitude to the investors of Phase I and the importance of progress for the community. President & CEO of the VCDC, Nate Welch shared the vision for the project and thanked the investors of the TIF - First Dakota National Bank, CorTrust Bank, First Bank & Trust, USD Foundation and the Dakota Hospital Foundation along with local realtors and builders who work to make Bliss Pointe a place that is beautiful and welcoming to live - one house at a time!

Guests also heard from Vicki and Bob Dehner who were one of the first families to buy a lot and build their home, along with some words from Gayle Bliss whose family owned the Bliss Pointe land for generations before the sale to the VCDC.

Following the event, attendees received a commemorative coin from the groundbreaking event and were invited to the community local bar, Bunyan’s for appetizers and cupcakes.

L to R: Councilmans Howard Wilson, Brian Humphrey, bob Dehner, Vicki Dehner, Gayle Bliss, Mike Carlson, Mayor Kelsey Collier-Wise, Nate Welch, Scott Pohlson, Paul Preister, Andy Schulz, Taylor Kathol, Joe Hoose and John Prescott.

Chamber Vital

plains commerce bank

3905 W. 49th St. Sioux Falls, SD 57106

605.359.1423

applywithshawna.com

For over 25 years, Shawna has been helping customers find confidence in their finances. Whether you are a first-time home buyer, buying an investment property, or refinancing, Shawna and her dedicated team will be there to smoothly guide you through the loan process to a timely closing. She is knowledgeable, responsive, and always puts her clients first. Plus, with Plains Commerce Bank’s in-house team, things move quickly, and you have access to a variety of loan programs. Shawna has a passion for giving back to our local heroes as an approved Homes for Heroes lender – saving our heroes money and saying “thanks” for what they do at the same time. Shawna’s exclusive team of Brad, Courtney, Parker and Austin are very responsive, helpful and knowledgeable when it comes to your mortgage loan. They are with you step by step throughout the process and are very passionate about keeping you informed. You can apply with Shawna by phone, email or by visiting her website.

the nutrition den

914 E. Cherry St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.415.5291

FB: @TheNutritionDEN

IG: @the-nutritionden

Your one-stop healthy smoothie shop, where creating a healthier and happier community is their daily mission! They serve a nutrient-dense breakfast and lunch for the community in the form of a full meal replacement shake, an energy tea, and a soothing aloe drink!

edward jones - sheri ouellette

23 Market St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.624.2028

Fax: 888.827.3955

edwardjones.com

As an Edwards Jones financial advisor, Sheri enjoys the opportunity to partner with individual investors and business owners, whether it’s planning for retirement, saving for college for children or grandchildren, or protecting the financial future of the ones we care for the most. She began her career with Edward Jones in 1990, became a limited partner in 1995, and is now a financial advisor. By providing highly personalized service, all aspects of the business are aligned to help better understand and meet clients’ unique goals and needs.

edward jones - thomas overby

23 Market St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.624.2028

Fax: 888.827.3955

edwardjones.com

People that want to carefully and thoughtfully work toward their financial goals are ideal clients for Thomas. He takes an individualized approach to understand client goals such as retirement, education, and estate considerations. He then uses an established process to develop a plan that is customized to help them achieve their goals.

hometown roots salon

118 E. Main St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.670.6027

hometown.roots@hotmail.com

FB: @HometownRootsSalonSD

new members

runnings

715 Bower St. Vermillion, SD 57069

605.624.9112

Toll Free: 844.RUN.1947

info@runnings.com

runnings.com

Runnings is here for you to lean on like a trusted friend. They work hard each day to stock shelves with brands and products that are built for value and purpose. Runnings sells a wide selection of trusted brands of sporting goods, men and women’s clothing and footwear, pet supplies, housewares, tools, farm supplies, lawn and garden supplies, toys, and outdoor equipment. Additionally, this store is an authorized dealer of HONDA power equipment and is pet friendly in warmly welcoming leashed pets.

Runnings, your home, farm and outdoor store!

the market delivers

914 Pebble Beach Dr. Dakota Dunes, SD 57049 888.712.6275

info@themarketdelivers.com

themarketdelivers.com

The Market Delivers.com supports independently owned restaurants, bars, and food trucks by delivering their food and beverages to your home, hotel or business.

individual members

Jacob & Shelby Quail

Deb & Clark Christensen

lawn enforcement of sodak llc

32114 473rd Ave.

Elk Point, SD 57025

605.202.9179

sales@sodaklawns.com

sodaklawns.com

They’re purpose-driven educated teams of lawn and landscape professionals focused on strong customer service and relationships. They’re extremely vast in their service offerings and scale crews to the projects at hand. The team are all strong believers in continuous improvement and creating the highest levels of efficiency and quality, understanding that your landscape is your image. That image is the first thing your customers and guests see when entering your property and they take great pride in providing the “wow” factor for you. Lawn Enforcement have many programs in place to offer services for most all budgets. Just give them a call, and they’ll do it all.

thirdsmedia

107 Forest Ave. Vermillion, SD 57069

303.621.5065

josh@thirdsmedia.com

thirdsmedia.com

Achieve your personal and professional goals with ThirdsMedia. Solutions are problems given to the right people.

Verbatim

Eagles 76th Aerie 49th Auxiliary Anniversary

members news

The Vermillion Eagles held their 76th Anniversary Banquet on February 8th. Guest speaker and Grand Aerie Trustee, Peter Ackers spoke at the event. Initiation was held followed by a social hour and the banquet. The event also included a Queen of Hearts drawing.

Join OLLI for lifelong learning

Vermillion residents are invited to join OLLI – the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at USD – and continue their lifelong pursuit of education. OLLI provides 90+ online classes a semester, all aimed at people 50+, in topics like history, health, literature, science and technology, current events and more. No tests, no grades, just fun! Visit their website for more information: www.usd.edu/olli

Studio 13 RV Park now open

Studio 13 Motel & RV Park is excited to welcome their first full camping season. The new RV Park includes 9 sites, each with 30 & 50 amp hook-ups, and many are pull-through. Their new pavilion includes a picnic area, bathroom, shower room and coin-op laundry. Nightly and weekly rates are available, and reservations are accepted. Open May through October. The pub on-site, Public Room 13 reopened for Memorial Day weekend. Open Thursday and Friday nights, 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm. Beer, wine and malt beverages are available. Cash only and staff are

Austin-Whittemore House

The Clay County Historical Society and the Austin-Whittemore House continue to function... only at a limited capacity. The board of directors meets monthly via ZOOM so that everyone can stay connected and informed. The Austin-Whittemore House is currently closed to visitors but with more people staying home, folks seem to be even more interested in family and community history. Their Facebook page has been entertaining by sharing photos and news stories from the past.

Fundraising efforts have come to a grinding halt because of our respect for everyone's health and safety. They encourage members to keep their dues current and ask the county community to consider supporting this historic organization so that they can continue to serve all of Clay County. They look forward to the day when they can open their doors to the public again and welcome visitors to see the beautiful Austin-Whittemore House and all the resources that it holds.

National Music Museum construction almost complete

Construction of the 16,000 square foot expansion and renovation of their historic home in the Carnegie building on the campus of the University of South Dakota is nearly complete, and staff have resumed working in the building.

Throughout 2021, NMM curators and staff will continue work with LUCI Creative, a Chicago-based design firm, to bring the museum alive with all new exhibits ahead of the planned grand re-opening. During this process, the public will have limited access to the museum through public programming in the new Janet Wanzek Performance Hall, temporary exhibitions in the Groves Changing Exhibition Gallery, and a new museum store.

Due to public health concerns during the pandemic and safety issues during exhibit construction, exact dates for this programming have not yet been determined. For more information, call Carol Robertson, 605.658.3452.

New Health Sciences building for University of South Dakota

USD is slated to break ground on its new health sciences building on March 29th at 1:00 pm in the Andrew E. Lee Memorial Medicine and Science Building parking lot, at the corner of Clark and Dakota Streets.

Measuring 45,000 square feet and physically connected to the existing med school building, this three-story, state-of-the-art structure will unite the school’s professional health programs under one roof. There will be new classrooms, labs, simulation settings, study spaces, faculty offices and an active community dental hygiene clinic. Construction will begin in 2021 and anticipated completion is 2023.

USD to Receive $1 Million Gift to Support Health Care Scholarships

USD will receive a $1 million gift from TikTok to support health care related scholarships benefitting enrolled tribal members and other students, as well as programming to study and promote health and wellbeing in impoverished or marginalized South Dakota communities.

USD was among 10 colleges and universities nationwide to receive a $1 million gift as part of TikTok’s Health Heroes initiative, launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the opportunities for K-12 students via USD are the Native American Healthcare Scholars Program (NAHSP), Indians into Medicine (INMED) program, Pine Ridge Scrubs Camp, Healthcare Careers Summer Camp and the He Sapa Health Careers Summer Camp.

Summer reading at the Library

The Summer Reading Program is returning to the Edith B. Siegrist Vermillion Public Library, and registration is now open! The theme for 2021 is TAILS AND TALES and will go from June 7th through July 29th. Planned activities include weekly entertainers such as the Great Plains Zoo, Starr Chief Eagle, Red Beard Blue Beard, SDPB’s Science Steve, and more! In addition, there will be weekly movies held at the Coyote Twin Theater, arts and crafts, science experiments, story times, LEGOs, and an all-day Shakespeare Festival workshop.

The Summer Reading Program is open to young people, preschool through young adult. Adults will also be able to join in on the Summer Reading Program fun by participating in their own BINGO reading challenge. For more information, call the library at 605.677.7060, or visit their website at www.vermillionpubliclibrary.org/summer-reading-program.

South Dakota Shakespeare Festival Returns for 2021!

The SDSF is excited to announce that they are moving forward with a professional production of” Twelfth Night, or What You Will”, in Vermillion’s Prentis Park, June 17th-20th.

The play will be directed by Oliver Mayes, who is in the midst of finishing his MFA in Directing at the University of South Dakota. Mayes finds special resonance with this play: “Twelfth Night, or What You Will” is a play full of invitations. It invites us to examine the power of love and desire, and how that unpredictable power can bring forth conflict for societal constructs such as class and gender roles. That’s intense thinking for a comedy! But William Shakespeare has gifted us with a theatrical experience that beautifully provokes deep thought through laughter and joy.”

The production in the park will take place for a live audience as well as via a streaming platform. The SDSF is also planning safe and responsible arts education programming in collaboration with their various outreach partners. Through their programs, the SDSF strives to improve and expand arts education for K-12 students and increase quality of life for youth and adults throughout southeast South Dakota. In fulfillment of the South Dakota Shakespeare Festival’s values of access and inclusion, all programming will be free and open to the public. For more information: www.SDShakespearefestival.org

Coyote Twin Theater big screen is back

The big screen is back! The Coyote Twin Theater reopened on May 28th with a summer slate of new movies. Their hours are as follows:

Fridays – New movies + shows at 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm

Saturdays – Shows at 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm, and 7:00 pm

Sundays – Shows at 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm, and 7:00 pm

Thursdays – Discount Day and the last chance to catch the week’s movies! – Shows at 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm

Thursdays will be the new discount day, with $7 tickets and a free small popcorn. Patrons are welcome to keep wearing masks to meet your comfort level, but they’ll be required only for unvaccinated folks, in accordance with CDC guidelines. Seating will be at 50% capacity (every other row) and keeping up national CinemaSafe.org protocols because your safety is their focus.

Summer updates from Midwest Ready Mix

Midwest Ready Mix have a few new employees to cover the summer rush and their pump truck is getting a lot of use. They are providing colored concrete for the Streetscape project. They have some new ASV skid loaders and some new and used LiuGong excavators for rent and sell. Now is the time to do all your landscaping projects with their Monster Blocks or with several different sizes of landscape rock.

Chamber

spring/summer 22

COVID-19 vaccinations

Vaccination is the moment when this massive public project to stop the coronavirus becomes a personal one. As with every other part of this COVID-19 pandemic, accurate information is a valuable tool. Fortunately, Sanford Health can help with that.

For myths and facts, visit https://news.sanfordhealth.org/coronavirus-disease-2019covid-19/vaccine-myths-vs-facts/

Department of Labor and Regulation One-Stop Career Center

There are many new and exciting things happening with Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) Vermillion Job Service. The past year has been challenging for employers, and they need help finding employees. Employment Specialists have been engaging with our business community more often at ribbon-cutting ceremonies and in-person visits as well as reaching out in other ways to discuss employers’ hiring needs and our business services.

Their Job Service staff members want to help employers in the Vermillion area maintain a skilled workforce through training and education. They offer many business services, such as providing connections in education/training, employment law assistance, a free 6-in-1 labor law compliance poster, layoff support services and labor market information. They utilize a jobs database called SDWORKS. This platform allows the employer to post job listings and receive qualified candidate referrals. SDWORKS works for employers.

Please stop by their office at 904 E. Cherry Street or call 605.677.6900 for assistance with any of your business needs! Please like and follow their DLR Vermillion Facebook page to keep up with what they are doing in the community.

Raising Resilient Kids

You know how important it is to raise children who can manage whatever life throws at them. How can you help your child feel calm and connected in a chaotic, unnerving world that just doesn’t play nice all the time?

Raise Resilient Kids is a self-paced online course for parents and guardians of kids aged Pre-K thru elementary.

Through the course you’ll learn techniques and strategies to build resilience within yourself and your kids.

Find out more information at: kelleyashbyconsulting.com/solutions/raise-resilient-kids/

Villagers

cullen kohles - Banner Associates

Banner Associates is excited to introduce the Vermillion community to Cullen Kohles, the newest Project Engineer in their Water Resources department. Cullen, a graduate of The University of Nebraska –Lincoln, has over nine years of engineering experience in southeast South Dakota.

Cullen and his wife Allison, a USD Alum, proudly support the Coyotes and enjoy attending USD sporting events. Cullen’s expertise is a welcomed addition to Banner’s growing team of engineers, surveyors, and scientists, working on infrastructure improvement projects in the greater Vermillion area.

morgan - farmers Market

The Vermillion Area Farmers Market is excited to introduce Morgan, a sophomore sustainability major with a minor in public health at USD. She has been involved in farmers markets her whole life, so when an opportunity arose to participate in Vermillion’s famers market, she decided she should reach out.

She’s a new vendor with the market as well. She makes signs, cards, and other household and decorative items. She’s created a lot of great connections that she wouldn’t have established without the market. Visit VAFM.wordpress.com to learn more about the Vermillion Area Farmers Market and access our online store. If you are interested in becoming a vendor, send an email to FAFarmersMarket@gmail.com.

andy schulz - first bank & trust

Andy joined First Bank & Trust in 2017 and has recently moved to Vermillion to serve as the Community Bank President. A graduate of Southeast Technical Institute, he brings experience in commercial, ag and consumer lending to his role at First Bank & Trust.

Originally from Philip, SD, Andy enjoys hunting, fishing, golfing, woodworking and helping on his family’s cattle ranch in western South Dakota. He and his wife Brianna have two children - a daughter, Olivia and a son, Avery.

brittany dejong - vcdc

Brittany is the new Chamber Manager for the Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company. She joined the VCDC team in January 2021. Brittany has experience in a variety of different industries; her most recent work included her time as a Human Resources Manager for Rush-Co, a manufacturing company in Springfield, South Dakota.

She’s excited to join the VCDC team and help the business community. Having been raised in an entrepreneurial family, she recognizes the unique challenges that business owners can face and she’s ready in every capacity to offer a hand.

terri nielson - corinsurance

CorInsurance is pleased to introduce Terri Nielson as our new agent in Vermillion. Terri has been part of the Vermillion community since 2015 and may be a familiar face to some you already. Backed by nearly 10 years of insurance experience, Terri is here to assist you with your current and future insurance needs. Contact her at (605) 624-0031 or tnielson@corinsurance.com. Join us in welcoming Terri to the CorInsurance team in Vermillion!

collin lind - vcdc board of directors

Welcome Collin, who joined the VCDC Board of Directors in January 2021. Collin is also the General Manager and Part Owner of the Pizza Ranch in Vermillion that opened in the spring of 2019. He originally grew up on a farm in Northwest Iowa and his first job off the farm at age 14 was at the local Pizza Ranch. Each day consists of Collin coaching and developing team members and managers to provide a fun family environment for all Pizza Ranch guests.

Collin is an active member of the Vermillion NEXT Young Professional Network and as a new board member is excited to continue to be involved in the community.

ionela georgescu - sesdac

SESDAC is pleased to announce that Ionela Georgescu has been hired as the new Executive Director. Ionela is a native of Romania and moved to the United States with her husband Catalin in 1997. They have been in Vermillion since 2004. Ionela previously worked as the Director of Finance for four years.

Ionela is looking forward to getting around to homes when the time is right and taking time to understand the challenges and opportunities that SESDAC faces.

raghav jayaprakash - american family insurance

Raghav Jayaprakash (Ragu) has joined the team at American Family Insurance - Beukelman & Associates Inc. Ragu is learning the insurance business while studying for his insurance licensing tests. He helps direct customers to the right agency expert to assist them with their needs and handles daily administrative tasks.

Ragu was born in India and grew up in Saudi Arabia before coming to the US for college at USD.

Trevor

help you with all of your

Trevor

Member Benefits

co-lab at mcvicker plaza

The Co-Lab at McVicker Plaza is located in historic downtown Vermillion. McVicker Plaza houses a Visitor’s Center & Bureau with information about regional attractions and events, the offices of the VCDC, USD’s retail store Charlie’s, and Vermillion’s first co-working space.

The Co-Lab facilitates a membership-based workspace where diverse groups of freelancers, remote workers, and other professionals can work together in a shared, communal setting.

The accessible co-working space enables the fledgling entrepreneur, the young student, the small-business owner, or the mature company president to forge more connections, helping people interact and build a community beyond work meetings and class assignments.

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, a podcast room, and 24/7 access with keycard entry is all available.

Spaces for rent include:

• Small meeting room for 2-4 people.

• Larger conference room for 8 people.

• Full-sized board room with the latest in casting and streaming technology.

Velocity YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

What is your name and where can folks find you most of the time?

My name is Beth Lambeth, and I have been a Vermillion resident for 7 years. I am currently a USD staff member working in the Office of Research. My role is to provide services and support for student and faculty inventors, which involves working to strengthen collaborations for supporting research impact. This gives me the opportunity to work with many different companies and universities. You can usually either find me in the Slagle Hall USD admin building (on Zoom – yay) or at Café Brule buying to-go slices of vanilla champagne cake.

How did you first begin participating in Vermillion NEXT?

I first heard about Vermillion NEXT through the VCDC’s Wednesday morning coffee hours. My participation in the Third Thursday Social is definitely due to the Vermillion NEXT leadership committee being such an amazing group of people that go above and beyond to invite and include everyone.

What do you think people should know about Vermillion NEXT?

The Vermillion NEXT social and networking events have been incredibly valuable for connecting with others; the program helps to build relationships and initiate conversations about how we can all impact the future of our community. I believe that sometimes the best networking and stakeholder relationships come out of having a fun time together, and the Vermillion NEXT program was absolutely built with this in mind.

What do you hope to accomplish in the community? How do you see Vermillion evolving?

Throughout my employment at USD, I have had the opportunity to work with faculty and staff all over campus. In doing so, I have gained a great respect for USD and the people who contribute to its culture of excellence. I see so many parallels between the USD and Vermillion communities in that both strive to intentionally build a strong network of driven individuals with the goal to serve. I would like to develop as a leader and learn how to better serve. I have been impressed with the VCDC’s ability to stay engaged through virtual events and learning opportunities throughout COVID, and I see Vermillion evolving to emerge from COVID with a renewed appreciation on how much we can rely upon each other.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years? Twenty?

I hope to someday be a leader in the community and workplace that can attain a work-life balance through family, friends and church. A balance will help me develop an overall well-being and also foster meaningfulness in work. Someone once told me that many successful people have mentors as well as a dependable group of people to rely upon for feedback, and in Vermillion NEXT welcomes the following new members.

Syed Shahnewaz Arif

Elizabeth Heikens

Shawna Murray

Lauren Vaske

Jessica Winterriger

Renee Gallagher

Courtney Henrichs

Cori Nath

Ryan Stewart

Andrew Vanvoorst

Alaina Campanella

Cody Jennings

Tyler Bruinsma

Tayler Greger

Jonathan Banks

Sam Peterson

Hailie Warren

Tyler Bakley

Craig Monahan

Up next coffee hour

MCVICKER PLAZA

9:00 Am - 10:00 Am

upcoming sponsorship opportunities

The Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company and the Vermillion NEXT, the young professionals network invite you to join in the weekly coffee hour. Hear presentations from area businesses, groups and event committees on exciting new happenings coming UP NEXT in Vermillion. The coffee is free and great networking oppertunities are guaranteed.

Presenting Sponsor $150 Per Month

* Lower rates for shorter months available

• Featured in sponsored month’s weekly Monday Messenger

• Logo featured on Channel 3 broadcast system

• Logo featured on Facebook Live stream

• Recognition in monthly Up NEXT Coffee Hour radio ad

Annual banquet

september 2nd

The Annual Banquet is the premier event of the VCDC, celebrating the Vermillion community and chamber members through motivational speeches, a keynote speaker, and various community awards.

Keynote Speaker $5,000

• Sponsor of the keynote speaker

• Recognition in official event program and via emcee throughout the night

• Logo featured in branded social media post

• Recognition in event advertising (radio and print)

• Logo featured in Monday Messenger

• Acknowledgement in The Verb - Summer edition

• Logo featured on VCDC event calendar listing

• Featured recognition at event

• Private meet and greet social with speaker

Cocktail Hour $2,500

• Recognition in official event program and via emcee during cocktail hour

• Logo featured in branded social media post

• Recognition in event advertising (radio and print)

• Logo featured in Monday Messenger

• Logo featured on VCDC event calendar listing

• Recognition at event

Drinks Bar or Candy Bar Sponsor $2,000 (two available)

• Recognition in official event program and via emcee during the night

• Logo featured in branded social media post

• Recognition in event advertising (radio and print)

• Event signage at bars

Red Carpet or Photo Booth Sponsor $1,000

• Recognition in official event program and via emcee during the night

• Logo featured in branded social media post

• Signage on red carpet or at photo booth

Banquet Gift or Stage Sponsor $200

• Recognition in official program and via emcee throughout the night

Vcdc red talks

feb. 11th, april 8th, june 17th, aug. 12th oct. 14th, dec. 9th

The VCDC RED Talks is the newly launched and revitalized Business Luncheon series. RED Talks will be the place to share “Conceptulized Community Collaboration.”

Exclusive, Series Presenting Sponsor $4,000

• Exclusive sponsor for full season (all six events)

• Inclusion in all marketing and advertising (event presented by)

• Logo featured on event signage

• Featured in branded posts across social media platforms

• Featured in newspaper advertising

• Featured in radio advertising spots

• Logo featured on the VCDC event calendar listing

• Featured in the Monday Messenger

• Approval authority for shared sponsor spots

Presenting Sponsor $2,500 (three events)

• Inclusion in marketing and advertising

• Logo featured on event signage

• Featured in branded posts across social media platforms

• Featured in newspaper advertising

• Featured in radio advertising spots

• Logo featured on the VCDC event calendar listing

• Featured in the Monday Messenger

Presenting Sponsor $1,000 (exclusive for one event)

• Business name and logo on marketing materials (event presented by)

• Inclusion in marketing and advertising

• Logo featured on event signage

• Featured in branded posts across social media platforms

• Featured in newspaper advertising

• Featured in radio advertising spots

• Logo featured on the VCDC event calendar listing

• Featured in the Monday Messenger

Shared Sponsor, Season $500 (all six events)

• Business name and logo recognized as a sponsor

• Inclusion in marketing and advertising

• Featured on social media platforms

• Logo featured on the VCDC event calendar listing

• Featured in the Monday Messenger

Shared Sponsor, Single $150 (one event)

• Inclusion in marketing and advertising

• Featured on social media platforms

• Logo featured on the VCDC event calendar listing

• Featured in the Monday Messenger

sanford coyote sports center

Old Lumber compnay

McVicker Plaza

2 E. Main Street, Suite #101

Vermillion, SD 57069

605.624.5571

www.LiveVermillion.com

VCDC@VermillionChamber.com

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED