The VERB - Fall 2021

VERB

The

fall 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.

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 Viewpoint 2 3 4

Contributors Note from nate from the chair

Events 6-9 10-11 12-13

Kids activities @ Thursdays on the Platz

event recap things to do this season event calendar

Feature story 14-15

Census 2020

Chamber 16-17 18-20 21 21 22

Vital Verbatim Villagers vested Velocity - young professionals

SD All-Star Football Game returns to the Dome

economic development 23 24-25

why vermillion? vermillion now! 3

VCDC Annual Golf Social @ The Bluffs

fall 1

Viewpoint

Megan davidson editor answer: c

Melissa eberts contributor answer: c

VERB Contributors Poll what is the best way to connect with people in vermillion?

A. visit up next coffee hour B. happy hour at a local bar C. thursdays on the platz D. take a class at the wellness center

Facebook poll results A. 10% C. 40% B. 40% D. 10%

@livevermillion @VermillionSD @VermillionSD @VermillionSD

Wee k ly Sp ec i a l s Mo n d ay $ 5 M a rg s , M u l e s , a n d Mo c k t a i l s

Tu e s d ay A l l Day Ha p py Ho u r

Wed n e s d ay W i n g Wed n e s d ay a n d $ 4 D ra f t s

T h u r s d ay L i ve M u s i c a n d $ 2 O f f P i t c h e r s

F r i d ay 1 5 We s t M a i n St .

Ve r m i l l i o n , S D 5 7 0 6 9 6 0 5 - 6 5 8 -23 37

W i n e a n d Br i s ket

S at u rd ay Yo u r Way S at u rd ay $ 2 O f f O l d F a s h i o n ed

fall 2

Viewpoint

Note from Nate We have had an incredible summer here in Vermillion!

As we now enter the last quarter of the year, we’ve got some exciting things in the works at the VCDC, but first, let’s break down the summer with a quick summary: we kicked the season off (literally) with the return of the AllStar Football Game, presented by Sanford at the newlyrenovated DakotaDome. We were lucky to have Bill Gassen, the new Sanford President & CEO and All-Star football player himself, join us at the Recognition Banquet for a night of recognition, celebration, and anticipation for the next day’s game.

That following weekend came the South Dakota Shakespeare Festival in Prentis Park. Their incredibly talented cast not only brought “Twelfth Night, or What You Will” to life on the outdoor stage, but they engaged, connected, and inspired attendees (and induced some laughs and some crying as well). On June 26th, Vermillion hosted the South Dakota Special Olympics Summer Games at the USD Lillibridge Track complex on the USD campus. There may have been rain, but it didn’t hinder athletes from competing and leaving it all out on the field.

Not only are we seeing people reconnecting at events throughout town like the ones I’ve already mentioned, but we saw record attendance numbers at these events.

Thursdays on the Platz, our summer music series, has seen the highest attendance numbers in the history of the event, demonstrating the need and importance of human connection and community (even with a slight twist on the location for 2021). We also had a record number of teams compete in the VCDC’s Annual Golf Social out at the beautiful Bluffs Golf Course for our only fundraising event of the year.

Thank you to all of our friends, chamber members, investors and stakeholders for coming out and supporting the mission of the VCDC – It felt great to be on the course with all our friends again.

On the economic development front, we celebrated Bliss Pointe Phase II with a groundbreaking ceremony to commemorate the expansion of the Bliss Pointe housing development. By increasing the number of new housing options, the ecosystem of Vermillion can continue to grow.

A blind bid process has occurred and lot prices have been disseminated out into the general public.

If we zoom out just a bit from Vermillion, there are exciting things happening on the tourism front for the entire state of South Dakota. Our state currently leads in travel and tourism recovery, tying for first place with Florida (we really ARE the Miami of South Dakota). One of USD’s alumni and Vermillion’s own, Byron Banasiak, recently took the position of Visual Assets Manager for the South Dakota Department of Tourism and we are so proud to see a fellow Coyote keeping his talents here in South Dakota as he works to attract visitors to our stunning state.

Looking forward to the fall season, we will be welcoming new freshman and returning students to the University of South Dakota campus as classes resume on August 23rd. Our collegiate population is an integral part of the community and we always look forward to welcoming those returning students as well as embracing the freshmen who will just now begin their college career, and their new life, in Vermillion.

fall 3

Viewpoint

From the Chair we, as a community, have survived COVID-19 and are taking on 2021 with a revitalized fervor that doesn’t look like it’ll be slowing down anytime soon.

Staff at the VCDC continue to work hard each and every day to bring fun, community-centric events to Vermillion, but they are also making their mark outside of city limits. Staff presented at the South Dakota Tourism Advisory Board in July, updating the board on tourism in Vermillion. The presentation was so well-received that staff have been asked to return to Pierre to participate in the 3-year strategic planning for the state of South Dakota. What an exciting honor!

“the vcdc was awarded as a bronze winner of the telly awards in the general television category.”

Scott Pohlson

As Chair of the Board of Directors for the Vermillion Area

Chamber & Development Company, I hope summer treated you well here in Vermillion. It definitely makes a person feel good to see events happening again in our community, as these events have played an intrinsic role in the quality of life we have here. Summer brought so many ribbon cuttings and business-after-hour gatherings facilitated by the VCDC, as well as the weekly Thursdays on the Platz, and numerous golf tournaments supporting local businesses.

Speaking of ribbon cuttings, we have held a record number of them this year. The business community is primed to get back out there, and what better way to engage with the rest of Vermillion than through the VCDC. Since the first of the new year, 35 businesses and individuals have joined the membership and invested in the VCDC. We’ve hosted 10 ribbon cuttings, and have a few exciting ones coming up in the books. It’s clear that

fall 4

Speaking of honors, the VCDC was also recently awarded as a Bronze winner of The Telly Awards in the General Television category. The submission was the Standstill Parade of Lights broadcast, produced by the VCDC and Ebsen House Productions and hosted by Nate Welch, VCDC President & CEO, USD Foundation’s Michelle Green, and community icon, Mitchell Olson.

The Telly Awards honor excellence in video and television across all screens, and staff received notice that they were awarded the honor in May of this year. What a great show of dedication and excellence by VCDC staff and, what I’m sure would be, a long list of community member involvement.

We’ve had a fun summer, but there is an exciting fall ahead of us. Thank you to the Vermillion community and to our chamber members who continue to engage with and support the VCDC’s efforts and mission by attending events, sponsoring them, joining the chamber, or all of the above. We really couldn’t do it without you.

Friday, October 1 | 5:30PM Muenster University Center Ballroom | Vermillion, South Dakota Visit usdalumni.com/events to register!

Serving Southeast South Dakota Since 1935 1410 E. Cherry St. Vermillion 605-624-2673 • 1-800-696-2832 clayunionelectric.coop Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

DOWNTOWN VERMILLION USDCHARLIESTORE.COM

Our Mission: To provide safe, reliable and affordable electric service to our members, now & into the future!

Sherry Stockwell Sales Executive

HUB International Mountain States Limited 15 E. Main St. Vermillion,SD 57069

Office: 605-624-2021 sherry.stockwell@hubinternational.com

605.670.9715

Risk & Insurance | Employee Benefits Retirement & Private Wealth

fall 5

Events Event Recap an abundance of ribbon cuttings

The Vermillion Area Chamber and Development Company welcomed

several new businesses to town this summer with ribbon cutting events that highlighted their arrival. These businesses included American Family Insurance, Studio 13 Motel & RV Park, Vermillion Vet Clinic, Lambeth Law Office, Cow & Spoon and El Fredo Pizza & The Market Delivers. Not only do these businesses grow the pool of available jobs and services in town, but they make Vermillion a stronger, well-rounded community.

Studio 13 Motel & RV Park

Lambeth Law Office

fall 6

Cow & Spoon

EVENTS RECORD TEAMS AT THE VCDC ANNUAL GOLF SOCIAL

On

June 21st, 2021, community members came together for a fantastic day of sport and comradery in support of the VCDC’S Annual Golf Social.

This year the event had record numbers and the VCDC hosted 33 teams from across the area. Thanks to our 19 sponsors there were competitions and prizes awarded for each hole. The winning golf teams for the day were: 1st flight 1st place - Vermillion Fire Department 2nd place - Leo’s Sports Bar & Grill 3rd place - USD Volleyball 2nd flight 1st place - Dakota Realty & Property Management 2nd place - Johnson Feed 3rd place - AMS Building Systems It was exciting to see increased community engagement and nothing says summer fun like spending a beautiful day at The Bluffs Golf Course.

VCDC Annual Golf Social

Vermillion NEXT volunteers

VCDC Annual Golf Social

shakespeare returns to prentis

The South Dakota Shakespeare Festival (SDSF) enjoyed another suc-

cessful season in Vermillion. This year, the company performed ‘Twelfth Night, Or What You Will’. While the organization was still able to provide a streamed version of the festivities entitled South Dakota Shakespeare Festival, at a Distance! amid the pandemic in 2020, this summer they were able to bring the experience back in person both at the park and streamed online.

The festival also hosted a panel of university professors who study Shakespeare’s works for a community discussion and multiple children’s activities. The SDSF, a non-profit organization supported in part by the USD College of Fine Arts and Department of Theatre, was able to offer nightly performances of Twelfth Night where guests brought lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the outdoor show in Prentis Park.

Shakespeare Festival performers

fall 7

EVENTS

summer of business luncheons

This summer, the VCDC continued its 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.

On Thursday, June 17th, 2021, the presentation by Tom Overby from Edward Jones covered how to protect and grow assets, with a specific focus on the financial industry throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Later that summer on Thursday, August 12th, 2021, attendees developed their knowledge of social media with a presentation by representatives from Lawrence and Schiller and took home some important skills to help boost their social media presence in both their professional and personal lives.

All VCDC RED Talks for 2021 are hosted at the Old Lumber Company Grill & Bar and have been sponsored by CorTrust Bank, First Dakota National Bank, Bank of the West, Edward Jones, Vermillion Medical Clinic, and Pizza Ranch.

VCDC RED Talks

CELEBRATING AMERICAN’S INDEPENDENCE

Thanks to careful planning amid dry weather, the Vermillion community

was still able to celebrate the 4th of July with annual fireworks, which were shot over a field just north of the Bluffs Golf Course. The evening offered spectacular weather and spectators were able to get a clear view of the colorful raining sparks. The 4th of July, also known as Independence Day, has only been a recognized federal holiday since 1941. However, the day has been informally celebrated since the Revolutionary war era when British colonists living in the thirteen colonies declared independence from British rule in 1776.

We’ve been supporting the dreams, hopes and plans of our fellow South Dakotans for 149 years.

How can we help you?

Your company needs a good company.

Midco.com/Business

fall 8

Internet. Phone. TV. Advertising.

EVENTS

the return of football at the dakotadome

Vermillion had the pleasure of hosting the 34th South Dakota High School All-Star Football Game once again from June 9th – 12th for four days of sport and connection.

Over 90 recent high school graduates from across the state, representing 48 communities were invited to take part. Athletes followed a schedule of planned activities and practices to prepare for the upcoming game. On Friday night, they were formally recognized with the All-Star Football Banquet at Old Lumber Company in downtown Vermillion.

The banquet had the privilege of hosting Bill Gassen as the guest speaker. Gassen, the current President and CEO of Sanford, was once in the seats of the athletes he spoke to as he was once an All-Star football player in his day. The following day beginning at 2pm, the Red and Blue Teams competed in an epic game in the dome where Blue Team won the day after pulling away in the third quarter and ending with a score of 25-13. This was the sixth year that Sanford sponsored the event, and the games were held in the DakotaDome after a $26 million renovation was completed.

Enjoying Prentis Plunge

Recognition Banquet

Over 90 players representing Red vs Blue

All-Star Game

fall 9

EVENTS

45

TTO DOH THIS I NSEASON GS

1.

DAKOTA DAYS

The 2021 Dakota Days are scheduled from October

1st-3rd and will offer a wide variety of events for students, alumni, and community members. The homecoming game will be on October 2nd, and attendees can expect another great game in the newly renovated Dakota Dome.

fall 10

2.

Nmm goes electric!

NMM Goes Electric! interprets the history of electric stringed instruments through objects from the National Music Museum’s permanent collections, including many that have never previously been highlighed!

From the early 1900s to the digital era, join us on a journey through the history of electric guitars, violins, banjolines, and more.

The exhibit runs from October 1st through December 13th in The Groves Gallery.

EVENTS

3.

STROLL USD CAMPUS IN THE FALL This fall, consider taking a stroll through the USD campus. As the weather

begins to cool for the season and summer activities come to a close, it can feel like there is nothing meaningful to do outside. However, taking the time to enjoy the fresh air, appreciate the local scenery, and walk through a sculpture garden might just do the trick to get you out of your fall funk.

4.

BOO TIN RANCH Head

to Blue Tin Ranch this fall for their pumpkin patch and harvest festival, held every weekend in October.

Featuring a corn maze, hay rides, bean bag toss, train rides and much more. Free admission with purchase of a pumpkin.

fall 11

EVENTS

OCTOBER 2 107TH DAKOTA DAYS PARADE 9:00 am

7 usd band showcase 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm Aalfs Auditorium

11

vcdc red talks (communication) 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm OLC

usd football vs indiana state

2:00 pm @ DakotaDome

6 up next coffee hour 8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza

13 up next coffee hour & ribbon cutting for main street inn 8:30 am - 9:30 am Main Street Inn

NOVEMBER

up next coffee hour 8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza

21 evening of engagement

usd volleyball vs north dakota 7:00 pm @ SCSC

20

14

v-now! 3 investors annual meeting 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm

17 music is alive festival 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm Prentis Park

27 up next coffee hour 8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza

28 ribbon cutting - masaba 4:00 pm

3

10

13

24

up next coffee hour

up next coffee hour 8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza

usd football vs south dakota state

up next coffee hour

8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza

1:00 pm @ DakotaDome

8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza

17 5 ribbon cutting robotics of vermillion 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm

fall 12

11

up next coffee hour 8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza

veterans day

11-13 sd high school football championships DakotaDome

18 vermillion next third thursday social

25 thanksgiving

25-27 volleyball - summit league tournament SCSC

EVENTS

DECEMBER 1

8

15

up next coffee hour

up next coffee hour

up next coffee hour

8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza

8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza

8:30 am - 9:30 am McVicker Plaza

2

9

16

standstill parade of lights

vcdc red talks (lessons from the pandemic)

vermillion next third thursday social

6:00 pm Downtown Vermillion

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm OLC

We’re More Than A Grocery Store!

VERMILLION At MidAmerican Energy, our strength is directly tied to the strength of communities we serve.

525 W. Cherry St., Vermillion 605-624-5574

That’s why we’re so proud to partner with you to make Vermillion — and all the communities we serve — better places to live and work.

HyVee Vermillion

fall 13

Feature story

sd - the place to be After having to limit social interactions,

many are It has never been a better time to visit or live in ready to get back out there and enjoy all the things South Dakota, and that has been made obvious by that make life so sweet. The people of Vermillion the amount of interest that Vermillion has received have persevered and made the best of some over the past year. Over 7,000 of our 2021 Visitor’s exceptionally tough times. While we, the VCDC, Guides have been distributed via mail, at travel acknowledge that there is still work to be done, centers, and from locations across Vermillion and we are excited to share some positive news the surrounding areas, in addition to online with you about this past summer and the downloads through LiveVermillion.com. upcoming fall season. Our community, along with many communities around Individuals from across the globe are inthe country, have bounced back in trigued by Vermillion, and requests come vermillion indeed big ways. As a result of restricted travel in daily for more information about our has something for in 2020, there was over 1.4 trillion dollars community. everyone. saved by U.S. households. This means that as more places open up and offer serAccording to industry surveys, travelers are vices, people have money to spend on fun seeking experiences in small towns, rural locavacations and boost tourism economies in tions, national parks, cities, state parks, mounthe process. tains and beach resorts. Vermillion checks off three of these boxes! Whether you’re strolling through Did you know that Google searches for South historic downtown, boating on the Missouri river, or Dakota went up over 57% over the past summer? enjoying the Clay County Fair, Vermillion indeed has This is combined with an overall positive view tosomething for everyone. The variety of our services wards travel in the United States as 88% of people and attractions means that this is a great place have plans to travel in the next 6 months. All of this for visitors as well as a great place for community information and data inspired the VCDC to double members. When you have the time, reconnect with down on advertising and promoting our great town these great aspects of our community and rememand state. ber why Vermillion is the Spirit of South Dakota.

fast facts over 7,000 vermillion visitor guides distributed in 2021

fall 14

google searches for south dakota rose by 57% over the past summer

88% of people have plans to travel in the next 6 months

The VCDC was happy to bring back and announce countless events over the past few months, which kicked off with another successful round of Thursdays on the Platz to rejuvenate the community. For eight weeks our team worked tirelessly to provide the community with a fun and engaging way to enjoy the summer, so each week featured a different brewer, food vendor, and band. Even though this event has concluded for the season, fear not! This fall you can attend the new exhibit opening at the National Music Museum and see the new Lillibridge Wing Expansion. Don’t forget the first proper season in the newly renovated DakotaDome. We hope to see you there for an epic game. You can rest assured that the party doesn’t stop in Vermillion just because summer has ended.

Speaking of parties, if you or someone you know is in the midst of planning an event and they are looking for a venue, contact Blue Tin Ranch. This festive barn venue, located just outside of Burbank, promises to be a wonderful choice for weddings, family reunions, and more! This is great for Vermillion because high-class venues mean more visitors to our great community.

This is not the only new space we have in the area. Main Street Inn, historically the Sigma Nu House but now a bed and breakfast located a block from downtown, is up and running.

These additional accommodations to our community are a great sign that we’re on the right track. The more options we have, the more visitors we can accommodate in our big-little town. The efforts of local Vermillionaires who are choosing to invest back into the community are propelling Vermillion toward a brighter future.

While there is much to celebrate and to look forward to, we also recognize that not everyone or every business has been able to bounce back quickly. There are still many residual issues effecting the tourism and hospitality industries across the state. If you are experiencing issues in workforce development in these areas, please contact the VCDC for information and support on unemployment or hiring difficulties.

NMM Goes Electric! exhibit

fall 15

Chamber

Vital Lambeth Law Office, P.L.L.C. 121 E. Main St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.225.7013 lambethlawoffice.com

Lambeth Law Office was formed to help South Dakotans enforce their rights in the least stressful way possible. Lambeth Law Office is committed to providing you with high quality legal services at reasonable prices. Do you have a legal issue? Let them help you to find the solution. Contact Lambeth Law Office today for a free consultation. Lambeth Law Office focuses on Criminal Law, Family Law, Contract Law, Business Law, and Wills.

Flamez Tobacco & Vapor 918 E. Cherry St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.658.0184 facebook.com/FlamezSouthDakota

Your friendly neighborhood smoke shop. The number one shop for all your smoking and vaping needs!

Farm Bureau Financial Services - Debbie Proefrock 120 E. Main St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.624.3011 debbieproefrock.fbfsagents.com

At Farm Bureau Financial Services, their team can help you protect what matters most in life. From insurance for your autos, home, life, business and farm or ranch, to a comprehensive financial plan to help you achieve your goals for the future, their team can help customize your coverage to fit your specific needs. I’m Debbie Proefrock from Vermillion, SD, and I look forward to working with you. It’s your future.

Let’s protect it.® For your insurance, investment, or wealth management needs, call (605) 624-3011.

Cow & Spoon 13 E. Main St Vermillion, SD 57069 facebook.com/cowspoonvermillion

Vermillion’s newest ice cream shop located at 13 East Main Street! They are open 3:30 - 9:00 pm daily during the summer season! Be sure to visit them next year.

fall 16

Chamber

Southeast CASA Program 413 W. 15th St. Suite #108 Yankton, SD 57078 605.760.4825 southeastcasa.org

The Southeast CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocates) Program, a nonprofit organization based in Yankton, SD, and serving Yankton, Clay, Bon Homme, Union, and Turner counties, provides CASA advocacy for abused and neglected children in southeastern South Dakota. Southeast CASA is the ONLY program that provides advocacy for abused and neglected children in these counties.

El Fredo Pizza 831 E. Cherry St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.658.0146 elfredopizzavermillion.com

Established in 1965 by Fred Lennon, in Sioux City, IA, El Fredo Pizza has become one of the most popular restaurants in Sioux City that has stood the test of time. El Fredo Vermillion opened its doors on February 17th, 2020, serving the same great pizza and pasta that made the original El Fredo pizza famous. They have also added some great sandwiches and fantastic wings to the menu here in Vermillion. If you have never had El Fredo Pizza before, it is a must try. Stop in and enjoy their newly remodeled dining room or call in a carry out or curb side order.

Ebsen House Productions 712.899.2021 ebsenhouseproductions@gmail.com

Video and multimedia production company.

Produces high quality videos to fit your needs.

Professional live streaming services and multicamera shooting abilities. Certified drone pilot since 2018.

Blue Tin Ranch 47033 Burbank Road Burbank, SD 57010 605.670.8139 bluetinranch.com

Blue Tin Ranch is owned and operated by the mother/daughter duo of Noreen & Kelly Jorgensen. Located just 1 1/2 miles east of Burbank, this luxury hunting lodge has a bunk house that sleeps 8-10, large meeting space for 250 plus many more fun and relaxing spaces throughout the farm. Listed on Air B&B for year round accommodations.

JP QUE 605.376.5308

A food truck offering Korean BBQ.

Vast Broadband Main Street Inn 221 E. Main St. Vermillion, SD 57069 605.461.1667 facebook.com/MainStreetInnVermillion

Bed and Breakfast renovated from the historic Beta Theta Pi house and then Sigma Nu House. In Vermillion, SD, home of the USD Coyotes and Vermillion Tanagers!

5100 S Broadband Lane Sioux Falls, SD 57108 888.745.2888 vastbroadband.com Vast provides high speed internet, digital cable TV, and home telephone for customers in South Dakoa and Minnesota.

fall 17

Chamber

Verbatim 1000 Books Before Kindergarten

1000 Books Before Kindergarten is a free program that encourages families to read together. This early exploration of books encourages early literacy skills and helps build a love of reading. This program is a free, ongoing program that can be started any time and can be accomplished at your own speed. All children younger than Kindergarten are welcome to participate. The goal is to read 1,000 books before your child starts kindergarten and it is easier than it sounds! Yes, you can repeat books (kids love repetition – and they benefit from it too!) and you can count books others read to your child as well.

To learn more information and how to participate please go to: https:// vermillionpubliclibrary.org/1000bbk/

Fall is just around the corner

It’s never too early to start considering your pumpkin destination when pumpkin picking season arrives. Dubbed South Dakota’s premier pumpkin patch, Mazing Acres Pumpkin Patch in Yankton is well worth a trip for locals and tourists alike. Mazing Acres grows acres of beautiful & exotic pumpkins and gourds and offers a hayride to pick that perfect pumpkin yourself.

This year, Mazing Acres is introducing sunflowers to their guests. There will be plenty of photo opportunities and they welcome professional photographers to use the fields of sunflowers for family and senior sessions. Mazing Acres is more than just pumpkins and sunflowers, they offer a plethora of activities and attractions for all ages to explore.

This fall, the 5-acre First Dakota National Bank corn maze is highlighting the South Dakota farm family; with an intricate design that features the outline of the state of South Dakota. Beyond the interactive corn maze, you will find limitless activities and attractions to keep you busy all day long; including zip lines, an obstacle course, duck races, rolling racers, a corn pool and so much more. New for 2021 is the Mega Bounce and Mega Slide. The 150-foot Mega Slide is the only one in the state and sure to be a family favorite! An added bonus for guests are the unique events offered each weekend and included in the price of admission.

No matter how you want to celebrate the arrival of fall, you will have plenty of options with a visit to Mazing Acres Pumpkin Patch.

fall 18

Chamber

NMM Fall Programming Update

While the permanent exhibition renovation continues, the public will have limited access to the National Music Museum through public programming in their new Janet Wanzek Performance Hall, temporary exhibitions in the Groves Changing Exhibition Gallery, and a new museum store.

Things will start to rock starting on September 24th with a ribbon cutting event for the Lillibridge Expansion beginning at 4:00 pm, followed by exhibit opening of “NMM Goes Electric!” featuring some of the NMM’s unique electric stringed instruments including a selection of guitars, basses, banjolines, lap steel, toy, and novelty instruments from both international and American makers in the Groves Temporary Exhibition Gallery.

The exhibition will include the NMM’s Rickenbacker “Frying Pan,” banjolines codeveloped by Eddie Peabody, electric Hawaiian guitars from the National Dobro Corporation and Gibson classics such as the NMM’s Explorer, Firebird and Les Paul electric guitars.

“NMM Goes Electric!” will be a free exhibit open to the public from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, October 1st – December 13th.

NMM Live! will also return to the stage with noon performances beginning on September 10th with local guitar-virtuoso T. Wilson King playing several guitars from the NMM’s Barmeyer collection: a circa 1934-1936 Gibson ‘Nick Lucas Special’; a 1935 C.F. Martin Model 000-18; and a 1953 Gibson Jumbo (J-185).

Below is a complete schedule of NMM Live! concerts planned for fall, 2021: • Friday, October 1st (12:00 pm) Jerome Kills Small, Native American Drum • Friday, October 22nd (12:00 pm) “Polka Yotes” • Friday, November 5th (12:00 pm) Dave Rowe “From the Delta to the DMZ, American Forces Vietnam Network (AFVN)” • Sunday, November 21st (2:00 pm) SDSO Dakota Wind Quintet • Friday, December 3rd (12:00 pm) Holiday Concert Watch the NMM newsletter, website (nmmusd.org) and Facebook feed for updates on exhibit dates, museum hours as well as concerts and event details.

Digital Archives at Vermillion Public Library

Thanks to the generous support of the Vermillion Public Library Foundation, the Edith B. Siegrist Vermillion Public Library has established a new searchable digital archive of historic local newspapers.

Now available: Vermillion Plain Talk • 1893-2018 (Inside library access only*) • 1893-1924 *Link marked “Inside library access only” must be viewed using a Vermillion Public Library computer or with a device connected to the library’s Wi-Fi network.

Being added to the digital collection soon: • Dakota Republican : 07/05/1862 – 06/19/1947 • Volante: 11/01/1887 – 05/07/1946 • Wakonda Monitor: 06/05/1891 – 06/24/1965 • Clay County Register: 09/07/1872 – 03/10/1876 • Vermillion Standard: 11/07/1876 – 06/16/1881 • Vermillionaire: 9/24/1928 – 6/5/1929

fall 19

Chamber

Updates from Lambeth Law Office

Lambeth Law Office had a strong start over the summer. In May, Lambeth Law Office opened its newly renovated location at 121 East Main Street in Vermillion. In June, the Student Government Association of the University of South Dakota selected Lambeth Law Office to represent members of the USD student body accused of misdemeanor crimes. In July, Lambeth Law Office held its ribbon cutting with VCDC. At that event Lambeth Law office was blessed to have many members of the Clay and Union County communities in attendance. This exciting start with the support of the Vermillion and Union County communities laid the foundation for Lambeth Law Office to successfully continue its mission of providing client-oriented services and enriching the Vermillion community. In the face of such gracious support, Lambeth Law Office is also currently looking towards a potential expansion office in Union County. Kasen Lambeth would like to express his deep gratitude to the community for helping make his long-held dream of viable private practice into a reality!

New owners for Herren Schempp

Herren Schempp Building Supply is excited to announce the sale of their business. The new owners will take over Sept. 1st. The new business will be locally owned and operated as it always has been since 1969. The new name will be The Lumberyard, LLC. Current staff and some new faces will continue to provide the great service you have become accustomed to.

Curt and Scott Schempp wish to thank everyone who has supported them since 1998, and encourage you to support the new owners as well. They will do a great job!

New location for AMS

AMS Building Systems, your locally owned and operated Design-Build General Contractors, have relocated and are ready to serve you in our new showroom. Stop and see them at 1341 SD Hwy 50.

-Custom Homes -Remodels & additions -Sentinel Steel Buildings -EPS Buildings -Rosebud Wood Products Cabinetry -In-house design work ~Proudly serving Vermillion and surrounding areas!~

Bright energy choices for Vermillion

Vermillion Light & Power is offering Bright Energy Choices to their utility customers. Bright Energy Choices is a program that lets our community support the development of additional carbon-free, renewable energy resources.

90% of the electricity purchased by Vermillion Light & Power customers last year came from clean energy resources that do not produce greenhouse gases. Our clean energy comes from renewable resources including hydroelectric, wind, and solar, in addition to nuclear energy which is not renewable, but releases no greenhouse gases.

Do you want 100% clean energy? If you elect to participate in Bright Energy Choices, a small premium of $0.001 (one-tenth of one cent) per kilowatt-hour (kWh) will be added to 10% of your kWh usage each month. This represents the portion of your electricity that comes from fossil fuels, and will be offset by Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) when you participate. For an average homeowner using 900 kWhs per month, the Bright Energy Choices premium will be only $0.09 per month.

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The City’s wholesale power supplier, Missouri River Energy Services, purchases Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) on behalf of our participating customers. RECs are proof that electricity was generated by qualifying clean, renewable facilities. When you enroll, REC purchases will offset the portion of your energy that comes from fossil fuels, making your

Chamber

Vested

Member Benefits

Notary Services As a member of the VCDC, you have the ability to legalize your documents with the Chamber’s free notary services. There are notary publics on staff at the Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company who are registered to legally witness the signing of important documents and verify the identity of the signer(s), their willingness to sign the documents, and their awareness of the contents of the document or transaction. Some of the most common types of notarizations include acknowledgements, jurats, oaths/affirmations, copy certification, and signature witnessing.

villagers royce miller - vermillion public library

Please help the Vermillion Public Library welcome Royce Miller, as the new Library Assistant! You will see Royce at the circulation desk, so make sure you say “hi”.

Royce thinks libraries are pretty awesome and that they are the intersection of human knowledge, art, soul, and community.

His favorite books are The Lord of the Rings, The Great Divorce, Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes, Harry Potter and All Creatures Great and Small.

Welcome to the VPL, Royce!

Prairie Eye Clinic • 605.624.2020

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Chamber

Velocity Young Professionals

teaching the CCD class, etc. I love playing small roles in the big things in my community. Vermillion is always evolving and I encourage everyone to embrace it; but more importantly, be a part of it. Change is inevitable and we can decide how change affects us and our community. There are so many here in Vermillion who are working tirelessly to see our community thrive. I see Vermillion evolving into a great landing space for young professionals to establish themselves, for families to grow and Vermillion was just named one of the best towns in South Dakota to retire.

Katie Heine accepting Young Professional Award

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

Katherine “Katie” Heine. Kids’ activities, VCDC events or home tending chickens....in that order.

How did you first begin participating in Vermillion NEXT?

I got started in Vermillion NEXT while working at the VCDC, but wanted to stay on because I love the people and really enjoyed being part of all that the Vermillion NEXT crew does.

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

In five years, I see myself here - and in 20 years as well. My husband farms and like Vermillion, we have long agricultural ties to this community. I like to say “I’m married to the land”. In the years to come, I hope to see my children succeed in school and their many activities; and I hope to see my neighbors blessed with good health and good fortune. I can’t think of a better place to find all of those than right here.

What do you think people should know about Vermillion NEXT?

Vermillion is made up of some of the best people - your bank President might also be Santa Claus at your kids’ school - the owner of your favorite bar and grill might also coach soccer. There is a place for everyone in Vermillion and once you find your ‘group’ or your ‘fit’ here, you’ll never want to leave. Vermillion offers so much to do and be a part of - all you have to do is go.

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

I hope to leave a mark on Vermillion and the people who live here; it’s a little self indulgent, but I want people to know my name. I want them to remember me from that really fun Oktoberfest or

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Vermillion NEXT welcomes the following new members.

Kasen Lambeth Jake Thurston Cesar Saldana Clare Fiore Zachary Motl Emma Groninger

Economic development

Why Vermillion? abundantly clear once we moved, I established my business here, joined the chamber, and started meeting people. It was so refreshing to be around people who genuinely wanted to get to know me and consistently wanted to help connect me to others— whether it was for a personal or professional reason. I have received so much support and encouragement from the staff at the VCDC, other small business owners and professionals in Vermillion, and even my neighbors.

How are you wanting to get more involved in the unique community of Vermillion?

Kelley Ashby

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Sioux City, Iowa.

What inspired you to move to Vermillion?

After working in higher education most of my career, I decided to start my own business nearly five years ago. I was living in Ohio at the time. I had a powerful desire to move back to this area and be closer to my parents, my sister, and her family. I recognized the potential in being located between both Sioux City and Sioux Falls for my type of services. I quickly realized that Vermillion’s convenient location was only one of its many benefits.

Given my background, I certainly was drawn to the college town atmosphere—it truly gives off a neat vibe that I appreciate, and the university provides so many fun things for community members to do. I was a college athlete and enjoy attending USD’s athletic events. But again…it was much more than location and college town vibe.

The biggest inspiration for moving to Vermillion became the people. I say, “became” because while I had a sense of what the people and community were like from the visits prior to the decision to move, it became

I have joined the board of the Clay County Park Association. I also volunteer with the Vermillion Community Garden by harvesting produce and delivering it to the food pantry every week. One way I spend my free time is doing anything outdoors, so these organizations were both a good fit for me to volunteer my time.

The mission of my company is to grow and strengthen high performing teams and individuals. My hope is that I will be able to contribute my skills and expertise to anyone or any group that strives to create the type of environment where people can thrive, engage, and perform at their best. I certainly would love to help the high school and university athletic teams with this by offering to help their players better manage the emotional impact on their performance. I wish I knew what I know now about how to manage the emotions that come with stressful situations back when I was playing competitive sports so I would like to help today’s high school and college athletes with this.

What are some of the aspects you really enjoy about the community and how have you grown here?

I will say it again—the people. I know that may seem so cliché, but I mean it. In the two years I have lived in and established my business in Vermillion, I have met and worked with so many people who have helped me feel appreciated, like I belong, and that I have something valuable to contribute to this community.

It’s great to be back home.

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Economic development

vErmillion-Now! 3 Total Employment in clay county, sd 2008 5,761

-62

(cewq) 2013 5,699

+259

2018 5,958

Median household income Clay County, SD South Dakota

2008 $39,784 + 5.5%

$41,970

- 1.96%

$52,791

$53,874

2013

+ 7.7% + 7%

2018 $44,943 $56,521

Housing property values Vermillion, SD clay county, sd fall 24

2008 $308,259,782 + 12.2% $747,979,829

+ 20.9%

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%

250

+30%

2019 2020 2021

253

+1%

271

+7%

281

+4%

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

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Presorted Std. US Postage PAID Vermillion, SD Permit 84

McVicker Plaza 2 E. Main Street, Suite #101 Vermillion, SD 57069 605.624.5571 www.LiveVermillion.com VCDC@VermillionChamber.com ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED