P ierre Area Chamber of Commerce
May 2019 Newsletter


Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce, Pierre Convention & Visitors Bureau & Pierre Economic Development Corporation E-News


This is the electronic version of the Pierre Area Chamber's May 2019 newsletter. We continue to provide a hard copy of this document in the Capital Journal as well.

Life is good on the river,
The Staff at the
Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce

In This Issue
2019 Chamber Board of Directors
  
Executive Board
Jennifer Anderson - President
Anderson, Nill & Associates
Meredith Lee - President-Elect
Lee Real Estate
Thomas Allerdings - Vice Presient
ClubHouse Hotel & Suites
Russ Hofeldt - Secretary
Feeding South Dakota
Melissa Puepke - Treasurer
First Dakota National Bank
Bryan Beck - Past President
Beck Motor Co.
 
Board Members
Angie Bollweg
Sanford Health
Paul Bowen
Slumberland Furniture
Mikel Holland
Avera St. Mary's
Aaron Fabel
Oahe YMCA
Cindy Bahe
Casey Tibbs Rodeo Center
Jodie Hickman Anderson
Strategic Association Services
Kristie Maher
South Dakota Discovery Center
Chris McConnell
Black Hills FCU
Dennis Rounds
Consultant
Ex-Officio Members
Ron Wagner, PEDCO President
Pierre Mayor Steve Harding
Ft. Pierre Mayor Gloria Hanson
 
2019 PEDCO Board of Directors
  
Ron Wagner - Chair  
First National Bank
Andy Hubbart - Chair-Elect
BankWest
Mark Anderson - Secretary
SD Department of Labor
Kim Easland - Treasurer
American Bank & Trust
Doug Abraham
May, Adam Law Firm
Trace Beck
Beck Motor Co.
Rick Dockter
Ameriprise Financial
Dawn Morris
Morris Inc.
Kim Olson
Sen. Mike Rounds Office
Karl Richards
Avera Medical Associates
Tiffany Sanderson
Vivayic
Gordon Woods
SD Intrastate Pipeline

Liaisons - Annual Appointment
Jamie Huizenga
Pierre City Commission
Jennifer Anderson
Chamber of Commerce
Kristi Honeywell
Pierre City Administrator
Norm Weaver
Hughes County Commission

Administration
Jim Protexter
Chief Operating Officer
 
Pierre Economic Development Corporation 
2019 Investor List
(From 3/30 to 4/26)
  
Thank you to the following businesses, organizations and individuals who are supporting economic development in Central South Dakota through their PEDCO membership investment.

Silver Investors - $300
Dakota Prairie Bank

Bronze Investors - $150
AmericInn Hotel & Suites, Arby's Restaurant, Butler Machinery Co., Century Business Products, Cone Ag Inc., Gateway Ford Lincoln Toyota, Midwest Cooperatives, Mustang Aviation, Oahe Home Builders Association, Runnings, SDN Communications, State Farm Insurance - Becki Potrzeba

 

CEO's Report
Jamie Seiner, CEO
What is investing?
Investing is to devote money, energy, time or effort expecting worthwhile results.

Not all investing is in real estate, stocks, funds and gold. There is a recession-proof investment that anyone can make - it is in other people. Great leaders are continuously investing in others.Investing in people has no hidden fees and no limit when it comes to returns; the more you help others grow, the more likely they will come back and help you. It is human nature to reciprocate.

The Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce is the local mutual fund of employee investment with many options area businesses have been taking advantage of to grow their employees as future leaders of tomorrow. Some of the options we hope you are taking full advantage of are:
 
Leadership Pierre
A program offered through the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce to inspire local leaders to learn more about the multi-faceted Pierre and Fort Pierre community and what makes this area such a great place to live, work and play. This class of 15 leaders invest a day each month, narrowing their sights on a specific segment of the community and diving deep as they learn from that day's industry leaders. Not only do they develop a passion for the Pierre area, they add depth to their perspectives as leaders. Bonds are formed, roots are deepened, and passion grows through this program. Applications will be available starting this month for the Leadership Pierre Class of 2019-20.
 
Leadercast: Building Healthy Teams
Each year, the Chamber hosts Leadercast and this year it is on May 10th with the theme, Leading Healthy Teams. Leadership development is promoted through a full-day agenda packed with world-class speakers, broadcasted at the Ramkota. This unique leadership opportunity is limited to 100 participants, seats and sponsors are filling up quickly. Visit the Chamber's website, www.pierre.org , or call the Chamber at 224-7361 to reserve your spot or sponsorship today.
 
Hospitality Training
The Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau are teaming up with the Department of Tourism, Missouri River Tourism and Fort Pierre Tourism by bringing a very special speaker to the area to celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week. This training will be held on May 8th at T.F. Riggs High School from 9-11:30 AM. This is free and a great investment for anyone in your company or organization; but made especially for your front desk staff, cashiers, tellers, waitresses, bartenders and others that spend the most time with area visitors and customers.
 
Lunch & Learns
This year the Chamber is offering several free opportunities to bring a lunch and join in on member-focused topics with great presenters. The most recent Lunch & Learn on Transition Planning was rescheduled due to weather and has been moved to July 30th. The Transition Planning session will cover transferring your business to the next generation, selling your business and planning for emergencies. More great Lunch & Learn topics will be introduced throughout the year.
 
The Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce is Loyal2Local. That means we are loyal to your investment in the Chamber and keep seeking out ways for your business or organization to realize worthwhile results. Thank you for investing in the Chamber!
 
Pierre Mayor Steve Harding's Report
Renewable Energy
I was recently reminded that 72% of the energy provided by the City of Pierre is renewable. By itself, that statistic is kind of bland. But when you put it in perspective, wow! National research indicates that the average electric supplier in the country receives only about 17% of its electric generation from a renewable power supply.

Here we sit in the middle of a very conservative state, in the middle of a very conservative region, and we're way ahead of the rest of the country when it comes to renewable energy.

We have the Oahe Dam to thank. About 60% of the energy used in Pierre is generated by the hydroelectric system at the Dam. Here's how it works. The Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) creates the power. The City buys that power and then distributes it to our customers.

The remaining 40% of the power we purchase and distribute comes through an agreement with Missouri River Energy Services (MRES). MRES is a not-for-profit joint action agency that generates and purchases power for us to distribute. MRES also utilizes renewable energy resources. They include wind farms and the solar installation at the Pierre Airport. What's more, the organization will bring its own hydroelectric generation online in 2020; MRES is building a hydroelectric generating facility at Red Rock Dam.

What I find even more encouraging about our hydroelectric resources is that they are highly reliable. Wind farms only generate energy when the wind is blowing, and solar facilities obviously generate more power when the sun shines. As long as there's gravity and water, the hydroelectric resources can produce.

The agreements that allow us to access power generated by WAPA and MRES are all managed by our City Government. Together, we are insuring that you have affordable, reliable and renewable energy here in the Capital City.

Fort Pierre Mayor Gloria Hanson's Report
Spring seems to be struggling with a decision to just settle down and stay put this year. But the calendar says it's Spring, so let's go with that. And at our house, at least, Spring means gardening.

Last year, with technical assistance from Wellmark, the City of Fort Pierre embarked on a Healthy Hometown initiative. A good group of community members met and identified some priorities, the first of which was establishing a community garden, the city's first.

It wasn't difficult finding a good location. We have several vacant lots in residential areas that were purchased by the Corps of Engineers for flood mitigation purposes. A long-term lease was negotiated by the City, and City crews worked to clear and level the lot and hook up the water. The Community Garden Committee, headed by Ron Schreiner, researched and planned the garden, using galvanized steel for 24 raised beds.

The committee then began fundraising. Individuals and businesses generously provided financial support. A local contractor donated good quality topsoil. Volunteers assembled the metal beds, and water spigots were installed in each bed. Led by Ron Schreiner, the "Compost Nazi," the committee enhanced the soil with compost.

The project moved quickly and 14 of the beds were completed and planted by the first of June. It was fun watching what had been a bare, unattractive lot transformed into a green and productive garden area.

An unexpected outcome of the raised beds is that it allows individuals who can't physically garden on their knees the rewards of raising their own healthy food. A full 75 percent of the gardeners who will have a bed this year are over the age of 50; five are in their 80's, six in their 70's, and seven in their 60's. One individual is wheelchair bound.

This year, the committee is determined to complete the project with security fence, ground covering surface for the walkways, and a couple of picnic tables. We are still looking for a few more community sponsors to fund this final phase. Please contact me at 222-5530 if you would like more information. We recognize our major sponsors with a permanent sign displayed on the ends of the garden beds.

Finally, there is just one bed left that hasn't been reserved for this year. Cost is $60, which covers the cost of water. Preference is given to Fort Pierre residents, but others are welcome to apply. Call Ron Schreiner at 222-9611 if you are interested.
 

Capital City Economy
January 2019
Current Month 
Same Month 2018
Percent Change
2019 YTD
2018 YTD
Percent Change
CITY TAX RECEIPTS
           
Pierre 2% $716,039 $786,273 -8.9% $716,039 $786,273 -8.9%
Pierre 1% BBB $41,035 $43,591 -5.9% $41,035 $43,591 -5.9%
Fort Pierre 2% $83,458 $76,924 8.5% $83,458 $76,924 8.5%
Fort Pierre 1% BBB $8,657 $8,039 7.7% $8,657 $8,039 7.7%
OCCUPANCY TAX
           
Pierre BID #1 $18,022 $17,910 0.6% $18,022 $17,910 0.6%
AIRPORT BOARDINGS
           
CPAir 328 882 -62.8% 328 882 -62.8%
DAILY TRAFFIC
           
Missouri River Bridge 12,617 13,147 -4.0% 12,617 13,147 -4.0%
US 14 East of Pierre 2,435 2,467 -1.3% 2,435 2,467 -1.3%
CITY OF PIERRE
BUILDING PERMITS
           
Residential:
New Homes
Stick Built - Number 1 0 1 0
   Dollar Amount $300,000 $0 0.0% $300,000 $0 0.0%
Other* - Number 0 0 0 0
   Dollar Amount $0 $0 0.0% $0 $0 0.0%
Remodeling
Number  4 4 4 4
   Dollar Amount $86,247 $41,800 106.3% $86,247 $41,800 106.3%
Commercial:
New Buildings
Number  1 2 1 2
   Dollar Amount $56,000 $981,147 -94.3% $56,000 $981,147 -94.3%
Improvements
Number  4 3 4 3
   Dollar Amount $26,988 $452,000 -94.0% $26,988 $452,000 -94.0%
Total Permits**
Number  35 25 35 25
   Dollar Amount $518,248 $1,506,259 -65.6% $518,248 $1,506,259 -65.6%
HUGHES COUNTY BUILDING PERMITS
           
Residential:
New Homes
Number  0 0 0 0
   Dollar Amount $0 $0 0.0% $0 $0 0.0%
Other* - Number 0 0 0 0
   Dollar Amount $0 $0 0.0% $0 $0 0.0%
Remodeling
Number  2 4 2 4
   Dollar Amount $42,000 $104,000 -59.6% $42,000 $104,000 -59.6%
Commercial:
New Buildings
Number  0 0 0 0
   Dollar Amount $0 $0 0.0% $0 $0 0.0%
Improvements
Number  0 0 0 0
   Dollar Amount $0 $0 0.0% $0 $0 0.0%
Total Permits**
Number  2 4 2 4
   Dollar Amount $42,000 $104,000 -59.6% $42,000 $104,000 -59.6%
             
WORK FORCE
           
Pierre MiSA***
Total Work Force 12,407 12,453
Total Employed 12,056 12,037
Total Unemployed 351 416
Unemployment Rate 2.8% 3.3%
For local job opportunities, visit http://dol.sd.gov/localoffices/pierre
* Includes multi-family, mobile and manufactured homes
** Includes residential, commercial, and all other permits.
*** Pierre Micropolitan Statistical Area includes Hughes & Stanley counties
Source: Pierre Economic Development Corporation Research

Gov. Noem Announces Economic Development Awards
During her State of the State address, Governor Kristi Noem tasked her Office of Economic Development with kickstarting the economy, and on Monday, she recognized two communities and an individual for their commitment and involvement in economic development.

"Advancements in economic development are happening across South Dakota in communities large and small. As professionals, educators, and parents, it is our responsibility to build a state, an economy, and a future where the next generation of South Dakotans can prosper," said Governor Noem. "This year's recipients exemplify what it means to lead in economic development and it's my pleasure to announce those today."

The Excellence in Economic Development Award honors the dedication and commitment of eight South Dakotans, including Gov. George S. Mickelson, who lost their lives when returning home from an economic development event in 1993. Chuck Turbiville, of Deadwood, South Dakota, was honored posthumously with this year's award. Turbiville passed away in October 2018.

"Chuck served our country in the army. He served our state as a State Representative and served faithfully in GOED and other areas of state government. He served his community as Mayor and as the director of economic development. Chuck was active in his church, in the VFW and in the American Legion," said Noem. "He was a servant leader who led, not for himself, but for the people of South Dakota."

Volga and Huron were selected as "Community of the Year."

"The Volga community, realizing its elementary school was outdated and outgrown, added 11 classrooms to accommodate the community's growth," Governor Noem continued. "While 11 classrooms are impressive on their own, constructing them without the need for increasing taxes is impressive and commendable. It's no surprise that Prairie Aquatech, a leading producer of a high-protein feed ingredient used in the aquaculture industry, chose Volga as home for its new 45,000-square-foot, $60 million facility. The Volga community has a lot to be proud of, and these accomplishments are surely just the tip of the iceberg."

"The Huron Regional Medical Center's (HRMC) pre-apprenticeship program, which was approved by the South Dakota Department of Labor, connects area students with the healthcare industry through a job shadowing program. This program connects minority and English as a Second Language (ESL) students to careers in the healthcare industry," Governor Noem said. "Additionally, the South Dakota State Fair increased its attendance by more than 2.5 percent. For these reasons and more, Huron is leader in developing a bright future."
Retail Briefs
Study shows Gen Z likes the mall
While just 58% of Gen Xers and 75% of millennials shopped at a mall during a three-month span in 2018, 95% of Gen Zers did, according to a study from the International Council of Shopping Centers. Retailers that create cohesive experiences between digital and physical stores and that provide customization options are most likely to attract this group of buyers. Bloomberg (4/25)
 
Rite Aid, Walgreens to set tobacco-buying age at 21
Rite Aid and Walgreens Boots Alliance will start limiting tobacco sales to customers who are 21 and older, in line with a growing number of states that have raised or are considering raising the age from 18 to 21. The new policies, set to take effect later this year, are in response to growing pressure from regulators, investors and activists to keep cigarettes out of the hands of minors. The Wall Street Journal (4/23)
 
Plans move forward for $250M water park at Mall of America
A proposed $250 million water park beside the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn., received a pledge of $7.5 million from city leaders to get the project moving. The money would come from liquor and hotel sales taxes collected in the city. Star Tribune (4/18)
 
Report: US retail sales showed strong growth in March
US retail sales grew 1.6% in March over the previous month, beating economists' forecasts for 1.1% growth, according to the Commerce Department. Sales excluding autos and gas were up 0.9%, led by online retail, apparel, grocery and home furnishings. MarketWatch (4/18)
 
More shoppers giving curbside grocery pickup a try
Retailers like Whole Foods Market, Walmart, Kroger and Target are expanding their curbside grocery pickup programs across the nation as more shoppers give the service a try. Younger and wealthier consumers have been the main demographics trying the service, with 22% of people ages 25 to 35 using curbside pickup by the end of 2018, according to Cowen & Co. The Dallas Morning News (4/15)
 
Robots to reign at more Walmart stores
Walmart will widely expand its use of in-store robots to perform such tasks as cleaning floors, unloading trucks and managing inventory this year. The machines are key to keeping costs under control as the retailer raises wages and continues to expand services including grocery e-commerce. The Wall Street Journal (4/9)
 
Goodwill launches online tool to compete with Amazon
Goodwill and Price.com have teamed up to create a browser add-on that notifies online shoppers when a used version of an item they're searching for on Amazon or other sites is available online from Goodwill. The search is currently limited to Goodwill Industries of Greater New York and Northern New Jersey, but it could be expanded to cater to younger consumers whose interest in thrift-store shopping is growing. Bloomberg (4/2)
 
Report: US retail sales down slightly in Feb.
US retail sales dipped 0.2% in February from the previous month, and January sales growth was revised upward from 0.2% to 0.7%, the Commerce Department said Monday. Most of the weakness resulted from a decline in sales of building materials, which are associated with home construction rather than consumer spending. Bloomberg (4/1)

 
 
CVB Report
Lois RiesCVB Director
Everyone is ready for spring. The Pierre Convention & Visitors Bureau will focus the first week in May on National Travel & Tourism Week. The Pierre CVB joins various cities and travel-related businesses statewide to talk about the importance of tourism in South Dakota and to explore the attractions and unique spots in our own back yards. We partner with South Dakota Tourism during the events we have that week.

Spring Hospitality Training featuring Laurie Guest will take place Wednesday, May 8, 2019 at the T. F. Riggs High School Theatre in Pierre. It begins at 9:10 A.M. Laurie will speak about "Heartfelt Hospitality". Attendees will learn: 3 different encounter points and how to excel at each; 8 taboo words and phrases to remove from your vocabulary and what to say instead; High-impact opportunities to shine that the competition is most likely missing. This training is free to the public. Front-line staff are highly encouraged to attend this training session, as their interactions with guests are many times what shape the patrons experience. You won't want to miss this dynamic speaker!

On May 9th, the Pierre CVB will travel to Mitchell, SD for the annual "Lit Swap". The Lit Swap is a great way to drop off our visitors guide for the Interstate Information Centers and to connect with other travel professionals in the state. Over 1800 visitor guides will be delivered to Centers and other communities on that day.

You don't want to miss Leadercast on Friday, May 10th. This year's theme is Leading Healthy Teams. World-renowned speakers will inspire the leader within you - with insights, enthusiasm and real-world advice you can't do without.

Tuesday, May 14th, the Pierre Hospitality Committee will meet and discuss the importance of hospitality in our area. We will meet at 3:30pm at the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce Board Room. Please join us if you are interested in joining the Hospitality Committee.

It looks to be an eventful summer bringing many visitors to Pierre. Greet visitors with enthusiasm and represent the great community that we live in with pride.

Membership Report
Katie Johnson, Membership Director
Owning and operating a business today is different than it was even 5 years ago. Technology, for example, is always moving faster than most of us have time to keep up with. The Pierre Area Chamber wants to stay relevant and resourceful to our members; we value your membership and want to know what you think. We will be distributing a survey this month and encourage you to take a few minutes to let us know how we are doing, what we can do better, and most importantly where you need help. In June, Jamie and I will be attending Institute for Organizational Management (IOM), a program for nonprofit professional development with course topics focused on issues such as: media training, membership, finance, legal issues, human resources, and much more. Your feedback from this survey will help us prepare for our week with other chamber professionals so we can continue to bring value to your membership. Thank you for investing in your chamber!

As we gear up for the summer there are many fun events to add to your calendar. To stay informed, check out our What's Happening tab on our website to stay on top of all that is going on in the community. Or better yet, sign up to receive the What's Happening email every Monday morning by clicking on the What's Happening tab on our website. If you have events you would like to place on our calendar it is easy to do:
  • Go to our website: www.pierre.org
  • Click at the bottom of the scroll on 'Click Here To View All Events'
  • On the right-hand side of the new page, click on 'Submit New Event'
  • Add as much information as you can - the more details provided, the more informed the readers are
  • Click on 'Submit for Approval', and we will get your information added to the calendar and the What's Happening email
Business  After Hours will be at the Dunes Golf Course on Thursday, May 2! This will be the second Business After Hours event this year; if you haven't been to one yet, mark your calendars and hope for good weather!

New Members
Borns Group
1610 14th Ave SE
Watertown, SD 57201
605-882-3365
Give Pat a call today for help with your printing needs; lettershop, printing, statement mailing, mail lists, marketing, non-profit marketing.
 
Marty Jackley with GPNA, LLP's
111 West Capitol Ave #230
Pierre, SD 57501
605-494-0105
GPNA LLP's, Pierre location is now open and welcomes back Marty Jackley, former partner and AG for SD, overseeing the office. We are here to help you with all your legal needs.
 
River City Toastmasters
Lutheran Memorial Church (basement conference room)
320 E. Prospect Ave.
Brian Underdahl 
605-220-1003
A non-profit organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills in a friendly and supportive environment.
 
United Express Operated by SkyWest
3800 Airport Rd
Pierre, SD 57501
605-224-1271
United Express operated by SkyWest airlines connects the people of the Pierre area on daily flights to Denver!

 
 
South Dakota Missouri River Tourism Update
Karen Kern, Executive Director of SDMRT
20207 SD Hwy 1804
PO Box 786
Pierre, SD 57501
888-386-4617
Hospitality Training Workshop & Great Tourism Day - May 8, 2019
Good businesses know they need to keep their customers happy! If you are in the customer service business it's one of the keys to success. Customers look for your staff to answer their questions - from the lower level staff to the manager - everyone needs to have the answers. And, you have the chance to get training for you and staff FREE!

Wednesday, May 8 there will be a Hospitality Training Workshop at Riggs High School Theater in Pierre, beginning at 9 a.m. The workshop is being sponsored by SD Missouri River Tourism, Pierre Chamber of Commerce, Fort Pierre Tourism and SD Dept. of Tourism.

Laurie Guest will be the speaker for the Hospitality Workshop that morning. She has been known as the "go-to" for customer service training and has her own training company. She will make you laugh with a perfect blend of humor and content that matters to your career.

Her presentation will be "Heartfelt Hospitality" - a fresh approach to customer service. You will learn 3 different encounter points and how to excel at each, 8 taboo words and phrases to remove from your vocabulary and what to say instead, and high-impact opportunities that the competition is most likely missing.

At 11 a.m. SD Missouri River Tourism will have its annual Great Tourism Day (annual meeting) and luncheon at Drifters Bar & Grille in Fort Pierre. There is no cost for members of SD Missouri River Tourism - if you are not a member and would like to attend the cost is $20 or you can join our organization before that day and come free. You must RSVP for the luncheon.

You will hear a presentation by Secretary of Tourism Jim Hagen on the "State of Tourism in South Dakota." At 1 p.m. enjoy a tour of Riverwalk Landing Development with Mark Zarecky. During the meeting SDMRT will be drawing for a ½ page ad in our 2020 Missouri River Guide - FREE and a 2020 Tourism Conference Registration, also FREE.
We hope to see you May 8 at both events - let's start the visitor season off with a bang!!
 
Chamber Events

Ribbon Cuttings & Open Houses
Pierre Area Referral Services relocated to 108 W. Missouri Ave. and celebrated with a Ribbon Cutting on Thursday, March 28.



United Express operated by SkyWest Airlines celebrated their first jet touch down in
Pierre with a Ribbon Cutting and cake on Wednesday, April 3.

1 Stop Travel Plaza, located in the former Triple M station, showed off their renovations,
improvements and new ownership with a Ribbon Cutting on Tuesday, April 16.


SAVE THE DATES

May Calendar of Events

May 1-27: Bogo Sale Event at Shoe Sensation in Northridge Plaza. Buy one get one Free Sale Sale. 

May 1, 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30: Adult Education and Literacy Classes from 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm on Mondays & Wednesdays or 8:30 am to 11:45 am on Tuesdays & Thursdays, at The Right Turn, 115 E. Sioux Ave. Pierre. Contact 605 773-4755 to register or kpauly@midconetwork.com Free to attend if over 18.

May 1: Mabel's Family Support Group - Alzheimer's & Dementia from 12:00 - 1:00 PM at Edgewood, 1950 E. Fourth St. Contact: Katie Nagel, 494-3400 or katie.nagle@edgewoodvista.com . Free to attend, $7 for lunch (please RSVP).

May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: River City Toastmasters every Wednesday from 12:10 - 12:50 PM at in basement conference room of Lutheran Memorial Church. Free. Contact: Brian Underdahl, 605-220-1003

May 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29: English as a Second Language on Monday and Wednesdays from 5:45 pm - 7:15 pm at The Right Turn, 115 E. Sioux Ave. Pierre. Contact 605 773-4755 or kpauly@midconetwork.com  to register. Free.

May 1: Stanley American Legion Post 20 Monthly Meeting from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at the Moose Lodge, 910 N. Deadwood St. Contact: Royce Loesch, royceloesch@gmail.com 

May 2: Breast Cancer Survivors meeting from 12:00 - 1:00 PM at Countryside Classroom, 200 E. Dakota Ave., Suite 1. Contact: 945-0827

May 2: Spring Business After Hours from 4:30 - 6:00 PM at Dunes Golf Course. Co-hosts include: Black Hills Federal Credit Union, Cell Savers, Lynn's Dakotamart, Dakota Horse Stars Therapeutic Riding Center and Quality Quick Print. Free.

May 2-4: Pierre Players Presents: Born Yesterday at the Grand Opera House, 109 S. Pierre St. Doors open at 7:00, with the show starting at 7:30 PM. Contact: Grand Opera House, 224-7826. Fees: $13 students/seniors, $15 adults.

May 3: 1st Public Riverboat Cruise of the Season, boarding begins at 6:30 in Lilly Park with boat ride from 7:00 - 9:00 PM. Contact: Steamboats, 224-6572. Fees: $25 adults, kids 13 & under free. Purchase tickets online at https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/sdriverboats/items/?flow=19518 

May 4: Sandbox Sand Delivery from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM in Pierre/Ft. Pierre area. Contact: Pierre Chamber to sign up by May 2, 605-224-7361

May 4, 11, 18, 25: Capital City Farmers Market from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM on the corner of Sioux Ave and Coteau St. Contact: Lindy Geraets, 222-1290

May 4: Family Farm Visit from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM 30 minutes west of Fort Pierre (call for exact directions when you RSVP). Contact: Crystal Neuharth, 605-685-5860

May 4: Capital City Ladies Day Out from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM at The Fieldhouse, 2013 Eastgate Ave. Contact: Kristina Healey, 701-471-5179

May 4: FitCare: Motivate Your Mood at The Right Turn, 115 E. Sioux Ave. from 12:00 - 2:00 PM. Contact: The Right Turn, 605-773-4755

May 4: Make & Take an Herb Planter at East Pierre Landscape & Garden Center from 5:30 - 7:00 PM. Fees: $25 (includes pot, soil, 3 herbs & instructions) Pre-registration required. Contact: 224-8832 or info@eastpierregarden.com

May 5: Build a Succulent Planter Class at East Pierre Landscape & Garden Center from 5:00 - 7:00 PM. Fees: $25 (includes pot, soil, 3 herbs & instructions) Pre-registration required. Contact: 224-8832 or info@eastpierregarden.com

May 6: Canvasback Art Club meeting at Rawlins Library, 1000 E. Church from 7:00 - 9:00 PM. Contact: Bev Letellier, 605-224-7993

May 7: Volunteers Needed at Food Bank from 5:30 - 7:30 PM at Feeding South Dakota, 20562 Grace Ave. Contact: Feeding SD, 605-494-3663

May 7, 14, 21, 28, June 4, 11: Basic Dog Obedience Class at Stanley County Old High School Gym, 112 S. 1st St. from 6:30 - 7:30 PM. Fees: $40. Contact: CUC, 605-773-2160

May 8: Spring Hospitality Training at Riggs Theater from 9:10 - 11:00 AM. Front-line staff who work closely with customers are highly encouraged to attend. Free & all are welcome.

May 9: Leadership Pierre Graduation at Drifters Event Center from 5:30 - 7:30 PM. Open to graduating class' family, coworkers and employee sponsors for $25. Contact: Jamie Seiner, 224-7361

May 10-11: 7th Annual Rumble on the River Walleye Tournament Fundraiser for the Pierre Fire Department. Contact: 605-222-8035

May 10: Leadercast 2019: Leading Healthy Teams at Ramkota in Amphitheater II from 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Admission: $65 for members, $80 for non-members. Contact: Pierre Chamber, 605-224-7361 to register.

May 10-12: Becoming One with the Spirit of The Horse LLC at Dakota Horse Stars Therapeutic Riding Center, 29958 SD Hwy 1806, Ft. Pierre from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Registration fees vary. Contact: Diana Melvin, 605-223-3172 or 605-280-0439

May 10: High School Baseball game vs Sioux Falls at Hyde Stadium from 5:30 - 10:00 PM. Fees: $5 adults, kids free.

May 10: Ballroom Swisher's Dance Club at the American Legion Cabin from 7:00 - 11:00 PM. Guests always welcome for $10 at the door. Contact: Bev Krietlow, 605-222-1401

May 11: Sibling Readiness Class at Avera St. Mary's Hospital from 9:30 - 10:30 AM. Fees: $5 and scholarships available. Contact: Dawn Tassler, 605-224-3189

May 11: Family Fun Saturday: 'Happy Birthday Cultural Heritage Center!' at the Cultural Heritage Center, 900 Governors Dr. from 10:00 - 11:30 AM. Free to attend & free admission into museum gallery during event.

May 11: High School Baseball game vs Harrisburg at Hyde Stadium from 1:00 - 5:00 PM. Admission: $5 adults, kids free.

May 11: Plant Swap at Andrea Royer Studio, 112 S. Pierre St. from 3:00 - 5:00 PM. Free will donations accepted. Bring a plant, cuttings or seedlings to trade for new and different varieties.

May 11: Night on the Town at Pat Duffy Community Youth & Involved Center from 5:30 - 11:30 PM. Admission: $100 per ticket (includes dinner, drinks & entertainment). Contact: Pat Duffy, 605-223-2701 or DeLynn Hanson, 605-280-7929

May 12: Mother's Day Paddleboat Cruise boarding at 1:30 PM in Lilly Park, with ride from 2:00 - 4:00 PM. Fees: $25 per adult, kids 13 & under free. Purchase tickets online at https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/sdriverboats/items/?flow=19518 

May 14: Chamber's Hospitality Committee Meeting at the Chamber, 800 W. Dakota Ave. at 3:30 PM.

May 15: Oahe Yacht Club Social/Meeting on The Sunset River Boat with a Mardi Gras theme from 6:00 - 8:30 PM. Contact: Bev Krietlow, 605-222-1401

May 16: Veterans at Work Program with SHRM online via Skype from 2:00 - 3:00 PM. Link online at https://meet.lync.com/esurance.com/lpedersen/8K405R5V 

May 16: Breastfeeding Class at Avera St. Mary's Cafeteria Conference Room from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. Fee: $10. Contact: Dawn Tassler, 605-224-3189

May 18: Childbirth Class at Avera St. Mary's Hospital Cafeteria Conference Room from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Fee: $40. Contact: Dawn Tassler, 605-224-3189

May 23: 2019 Junior Achievement Golf Scramble at Hillsview Golf Course from 12:00 - 5:00 PM. Fees: $200 per 4 person team (includes entry fee & lunch), Hole Sponsor, $100 (sign w/ logo on course). Contact: Rachel Petersen, 605-336-7318

May 24: Effective Communication with Alzheimer's & Dementia Lunch & Learn at Edgewood, 1950 E. Fourth St. from 12:00 - 1:00 PM. Free to attend, but please RSVP for lunch. Contact: Steve Bass, 605-494-3400

May 25: 7th Annual Wishard Memorial Disc Golf Tournament at Oahe Downstream Recreational Area from 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Admission fees vary depending on division. Contact: Dan, 605-209-2788 or Lothr, 605-929-2681

May 25: Oahe Speedway Shootout Races, 28390 Spectators Rd., Pierre from 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM. Admission: Adults $10, Teens $5, Kids 12 & Under Always Free! Contact: Oahe Speedway, 605-301-0459 (please leave a message) or oahespeedway@gmail.com

May 26: Oahe Speedway Pepsi Points Race #1 w/ Alex Lindhold Street Trophy Specialty Race from 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM. Admission: Adults $10, Teens $5, Kids 12 & Under Always Free! Contact: Oahe Speedway, 605-301-0459 (please leave a message) or oahespeedway@gmail.com

May 27: Oahe Speedway Pepsi Points Race #2 from 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM. Admission: Adults $10, Teens $5, Kids 12 & Under Always Free! Contact: Oahe Speedway, 605-301-0459 (please leave a message) or oahespeedway@gmail.com

May 28: OPEN AUDITIONS: Peter and the Starcatcher at Grand Opera House, 109 S. Pierre St. from 7:00 - 9:00 PM. Contact: Director Hannah Cards, 605-222-7723 or Hannah.carda@state.sd.us

For future months, go to www.pierre.org