P ierre Area Chamber of Commerce
November 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 November 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
Damon Wheelhouse
Allied Plumbing & Heating
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
 
 
Pick up your 2020 Labor Law poster at the 
Pierre Department of Labor
116 W. Missouri Ave.
Pierre, SD 57501
 
Pierre Economic Development Corporation 
2019 Investor List
  
Thank you to the following businesses, organizations and individuals who are supporting economic development in Central South Dakota through their PEDCO membership investment.

Platinum Investors - $1000
Avera St. Mary's/Avera Medical Group
First National Bank
Midwest Development Inc.
Montana-Dakota Utilities
Wells Fargo Bank

Gold Investors - $600
A-G-E Corporation
American Bank & Trust
Beck Motor Company
Brosz Engineering Inc.
First Dakota National Bank
SD Intrastate Pipeline Co.

Silver Investors - $300
Allied Plumbing and Heating
Anderson Nill & Associates Inc.
Bartlett & Weaver Eye Clinic
Clark Engineering Corporation
Dakota Prairie Bank
Delta Dental
Dougherty & Company LLC
Farm Credit Services of America
Fischer Rounds & Associates
Hermanson, Swenson & Rath, DDS, PC
Nystrom Electrical Contracting Inc.
RedRossa Italian Grille
Robins Water Conditioning Inc.
Stulken Petersen Lingle Walti & Jones LLP

Bronze Investors - $150
Acorn Trust Company, All Around Graphix, American Family Insurance - Boyd Conzemius Agency, AmericInn Hotel & Suites, Anderson Contractors Inc., Anderson Dentistry, Angel's Salon, Arby's Restaurant, BPRO Inc., Bechtold Thompson Dental Clinic, Black Hills Federal Credit Union, Bob's Lounge, Brakke Financial Services, Butler Machinery Co., Capital Area Counseling Service, Capital City Wine & Spirits, Capital Journal, Central Dakota Eyecare LLP, Century Business Products, Chandlers Inc., Chase Auto & RV, Clausen & Rice LLP, Clubhouse Hotel & Suites, Coca-Cola Bottling Co., Cone Ag Inc., Cowboy Country Stores, DJ's Convenience Store, Dairy Queen, Dakota Radio Group KGFX - KPLO - River 92.7 - 1001.1 The Eagle, Dakota Storm Roofing, Dentistry at the St. Charles, Rick Dockter/Ameriprise Financial, Drifters Bar & Grille, East Pierre Landscape & Garden Center, Envirotech, Feigum Funeral Home, Ferding Electric Inc., Fine Line Auto, Fort Pierre Development Corporation, Fort Pierre Livestock Auction, Foster Rentals, Friman Oil & Gas, Gateway Ford Lincoln Toyota, Governor's Inn, Grossenburg Implement, Halverson Hunts LLC, Hughes County Abstract, Ingram Pest Service, Isburg Funeral Chapels, Jake's Goodtimes Place, Jerome Beverage Inc., KCCR 1240 AM - KLXS 95.3 FM, La Minestra, Leingang Home Center, Leyden and Associates, Linn Real Estate, Mad Mary's Steakhouse & Saloon, May Adam Gerdes & Thompson, MicroFix Inc., Midcontinent Communications, Midwest Cooperatives, Moreno & Bachand PC, Morris Inc., Mustang Aviation, Nagel Agency, Northridge Plaza, Northwest Pipe Fittings Inc., Oahe Electric Cooperative, Oahe Federal Credit Union, Oahe Home Builders Association, Oahe Veterinary Clinic, Olinger Law Firm, Olson Plumbing Inc., Palmer Currier & Hoffert LLP, Peitz Heating & Cooling, Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company, Pergroup, Perkins Restaurant, Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce, Pizza Ranch, Prairie Pages Bookseller LLC, Puetz Corporation, Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center, Reinke Gray Wealth Management, Riter Rogers Wattier & Northrup LLP, Runnings, SDN Communications, Servall Uniform & Linen, ServiceMaster of Pierre, Smith Plumbing, S.D. Electric Utility Companies, State 123 Theatre, State Farm Insurance - Becki Potrzeba, Thielen Surveying & Mapping, TMA of Pierre, US Bank, Wheelhouse Plumbing, Willard & Associates Inc., Willow Creek Wildlife, WW Tire Service

Individual & Non-Profit Investors - $60
Capital University Center, Oahe Incorporated, Charles P. Schroyer, S.D. Bankers Association, S.D. Chamber of Commerce & Industry, S.D. Community Foundation, S.D. Development Corporation, S.D. Discovery Center, S.D. Rural Electric Association, S.D. Telecommunications Association, Rev. Jon B. Urbach

 

CEO's Report
Jamie Seiner , CEO
Autumn is in the South Dakota air! The colors are changing, the mosquitoes have kicked the bucket, and we are welcoming hunters from all over the world who are hoping to bag a few of our wiley state birds. Welcome hunters! Thank you for making Pierre and Ft. Pierre your hunting home for the next several days. We look forward to hosting you!

Speaking of thank you's reminds me of the evening dinner conversations we have with our children. We always go around the table and say "our gratefuls". It has become a cherished evening ritual in our home and has spilled over into this article. To begin, we would like to thank all of our chamber staff for making this organization so wonderful. Making a difference for our members and residents each and every day takes passion, dedication and perseverance. The Chamber staff and Board of Directors have been working hard for our membership over the past few months by conducting a member survey, creating a new strategic plan and forming a task force to create a value-based membership dues structure. This new dues structure will make it easier for every business to partner with the chamber, regardless of size or stature. We are so excited to meet with all members (and non-members) to discuss what this might mean for your business. Thank you for your support!

Our new Strategic Plan was created to help us achieve organizational goals and objectives for many years to come. It all begins with our collective vision statement which states perfectly why we all get out of bed each morning to do this work:

"Promoting prosperity, growth, and our way of life in the lower Oahe region."

This is more than a membership organization. We are community builders, celebraters, entrepreneurs, advocates, stewards, and residents. The lower Oahe region is our home, and we are proud of that! Thank you to board members, industry partners, volunteers, members, non-members, and staff who made our planning session a success. A handy illustration has been created to communicate our cornerstone priorities and objectives for the coming years. As our priority areas change, so will our goals and objectives. Please let us know what you think. Your feedback will help keep our work on track.  

Finally, thanks to YOU for making Pierre and Ft. Pierre such great places to live, work, and play. Thank you for being Loyal2Local by thinking about buying that item here first. THANK YOU for attending events, open houses, and local gatherings. Thank you for picking up trash when you see it and keeping our communities beautiful. Most of all, THANK YOU for being a part of our work. It means a lot to have you by our side.



Chamber Board Nominations Announced
The  Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce's nominating committee is offering a slate of candidates for 2020.
The proposed 2020 Executive Board will consist of President Meredith Lee (Lee Real Estate), Vice President Thomas Allerdings (Clubhouse Inn & Suites), Secretary Angie Bollweg (Sanford Health), Treasurer Melissa Puepke (First Dakota National Bank) and Past President Jennifer Anderson (Anderson, Nill and Associates).

Nominations for the three-year terms include: Steve Bass (Edgewood), Jodie Hickman Anderson (Strategic Association Services) and Mikel Holland (Avera St. Mary's).

Incoming president Meredith Lee will appoint Jamie Maher (Maher Dental Clinic), Pam Metzinger (Branding Iron Bistro), and Tanner Kost (Dakota Prairie Bank) to each serve a one-year term.

Any additional chamber member in good standing who is interested in submitting his or her name for consideration for a position on the Chamber Board of Directors can do so by submitting a statement of willingness to serve to the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce (800 W Dakota Ave; Pierre, SD 57501). Such statements shall be forwarded to the nominating committee no later than November 14, 2019. His or her name will be added to the ballot and voted on by all members represented at the annual meeting that will be held on November 21, 2010 from 11:30am-1:00pm. The nominees receiving the majority of the votes shall be declared elected to the Board of Directors. Should a tie occur, the nominating committee shall cast the deciding vote.  In the event no other chamber member submits his or her name, the nominated slate will become the 2020 chamber board.

Newly elected and appointed board members shall be seated at the December board meeting and shall be considered participating members until their term ends.

The Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors wants to extend a special thank you for the commitment of Bryan Beck (Beck Motors) and Paul Bowen (Slumberland).

Pierre Mayor Steve Harding's Report
To steal some language from Airport Director, Mike Isaacs, it's "all systems go" at Pierre Regional Airport.

Since United Express took the reins in April, the City is seeing more passengers than we have seen in decades. In September alone, we had more than 1,800 people fly out of Pierre. That's the highest number of passengers we have seen in September since 1982! And that's not a one-time deal. In May, we had the highest number of passengers we've seen in more than a decade; our July enplanements were the highest they've been in 20 years; and the trend continues across the board.

This momentum is leading to additional good news at our airport and in our community!

In mid-October, we hit 10,000 passengers for the year at the Airport. That's a really important number. Annual passenger numbers of 10,000 or more initiates an annual federal stipend of $1 million to maintain and improve our airport. Add that to an additional $1 million one-time federal grant we received this year to redo our taxiway in front of the terminal!

The City is also directing some resources to the airport to meet the demand of increased passenger numbers. In 2020, we'll add an additional row of parking.

Another sign of confidence from the federal government came this fall, when the Pierre airport was added to the federal flight contract. This allows federal employees and US military personnel who are on official business, the ability to fly from DC to Pierre and vice-versa. Previously, people traveling on the federal dime had to fly into Rapid City or Sioux Falls and then drive into Pierre.  Keep in mind, the federal government is one of the top ten employers in our community. This change certainly improves convenience for those people and accessibility to and from Central South Dakota.

This is all great news for our airport, but you might be wondering why you should care. There's a couple of reasons.

First, reliable commercial air service is once again available in Central South Dakota. But convenience isn't the biggest boon our community realizes as a result of increased passengers loads. More passengers flying in and out of Pierre keep our tax dollars local, and draw in the tax dollars of visitors who come to Pierre to utilize our airport. Those passengers are buying gas here, eating at our restaurants, and patronizing our other businesses. This not only boosts the bottom line for our local businesses, it also boosts our local tax receipts. And it's those tax dollars that pay for street improvements, park maintenance, public safety and a variety of other community services.

When it's "all systems go" at the airport, the whole community is poised for takeoff!

Fort Pierre Mayor Gloria Hanson's Report
This isn't really a city report, but more of a story of the goodness of human nature. And heaven knows, we can all use some positive news once in a while.

The story began when my husband, Ron, received a message from his bank telling him that suspicious activity had been detected on his debit card. (I find it comforting to know that someone is paying attention to that kind of thing.) And the activity was certainly out of the ordinary - one purchase was attempted in London, not one of our regular places of business! The bank official told Ron not to worry, that his debit card would be cancelled and he would be issued another one.

Fast forward a few days. Ron had been waiting for a good opportunity to make a trip to the family farm near Winner, and got word from a neighbor that the roads were passable. So he made a quick trip to the farm.

About 5 o'clock the same day, I got a call from Ron who said, "I'm in a bit of a pickle." Turns out he had stopped in Winner for gas on his way home, inserted his debit card into the gas pump, and only when he got a "fraud alert" message did he remember his debit card had been cancelled. And he had very little cash and no credit card with him. He quickly drove to the bank branch there. It was closed, and that was when he called me.

I suggested he go back to the station, explain his situation, and see if they would call me for my credit card information. He did that, and the friendly attendant said she would have to check with her manager, who responded that would not be possible.

Here's where the story gets good. The clerk asked Ron if $25 would get him home, and said to him, "I've been in your situation and I'm going to help you out. Put $25 of gas in your car and it will be taken out of my paycheck." This young lady didn't know Ron at all, so she was clearly taking a risk.

Ron thanked her sincerely and profusely for getting him out of a jam, and her response was, "It's called 'paying it forward."   Maybe it's because this incident took place in small town, rural South Dakota, but I'd like to think caring and trusting people like that young woman can be found anywhere. I am personally thankful for this true life experience. It restores some of my faith in humanity.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Capital City Economy
July 2019
Current Month
Same Month 2018
Percent Change
2019 YTD
2018 YTD
Percent Change
CITY TAX RECEIPTS
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pierre 2%
$732,908
$719,305
1.9%
$4,509,846
$4,540,870
-0.7%
Pierre 1% BBB
$51,020
$53,139
-4.0%
$305,060
$309,752
-1.5%
Fort Pierre 2%
$108,646
$104,059
4.4%
$665,092
$636,254
4.5%
Fort Pierre 1% BBB
$12,252
$13,005
-5.8%
$67,720
$69,607
-2.7%
OCCUPANCY TAX
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pierre BID #1
$24,452
$23,642
3.4%
$131,716
$131,782
-0.1%
 
 
AIRPORT BOARDINGS
 
 
 
 
 
 
SkyWest
1,732
966
79.3%
5,718
6016
-5.0%
 
 
DAILY TRAFFIC
 
 
 
 
 
 
Missouri River Bridge
16,504
16333
1.0%
100,458
102,064
-1.6%
US 14 East of Pierre
3,470
3408
1.8%
20,088
19,983
0.5%
 
 
CITY OF PIERRE BUILDING PERMITS
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential:
New Homes
Stick Built - Number
0
0
2
5
   Dollar Amount
$0
$0
0.0%
$590,000
$1,261,000
-53.2%
Other* - Number
0
2
2
3
   Dollar Amount
$0
$101,000
0.0%
$121,900
$136,000
-10.4%
Remodeling
Number
7
4
35
39
   Dollar Amount
$77,450
$20,730
273.6%
$310,612
$475,426
-34.7%
Commercial:
New Buildings
Number
1
0
5
4
   Dollar Amount
$4,500,000
$0
0.0%
$5,738,340
$2,093,112
174.2%
Improvements
Number
2
1
23
9
   Dollar Amount
$50,000
$10,000
400.0%
$1,478,164
$1,592,721
-7.2%
Total Permits**
Number
79
85
360
483
   Dollar Amount
$5,750,378
$526,400
992.4%
$10,866,855
$8,277,980
31.3%
 
 
HUGHES COUNTY BUILDING PERMITS
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential:
New Homes
Number
1
0
4
4
   Dollar Amount
$355,000
$0
0.0%
$1,290,000
$1,000,000
29.0%
Other* - Number
2
1
1
2
   Dollar Amount
$80,000
$35,000
128.6%
$122,000
$70,000
74.3%
Remodeling
Number
8
5
59
23
   Dollar Amount
$391,888
$213,662
83.4%
$828,833
$490,030
69.1%
Commercial:
New Buildings
Number
0
0
1
5
   Dollar Amount
$0
$0
0.0%
$278,000
$568,000
-51.1%
Improvements
Number
0
0
2
0
   Dollar Amount
$0
$0
0.0%
$156,900
$0
0.0%
Total Permits**
Number
17
14
81
50
   Dollar Amount
$1,133,023
$650,397
74.2%
$3,463,652
$2,997,294
15.6%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
WORK FORCE              
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pierre MiSA***
Total Work Force
13,070
12,794
Total Employed
12,807
12,527
Total Unemployed
263
267
Unemployment Rate
2.0%
2.1%
* 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


PEDCO, Chamber Dig In At Riggs Construction Career Camp

Over 100 students participated in a construction career camp hosted by Pierre Associated General Contractors Oct. 17 on the campus of Riggs High School. PEDCO COO Jim Protexter and Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Jamie Seiner volunteered to help keep the students moving through the six stations.

Students were introduced to future career opportunities in heavy equipment, welding, design, carpentry, surveying and concrete materials. The career camp is designed to be a hands-on experience, from operating a crane or skid steer to assembling walls and trusses for a garden shed.

PEDCO Annual Meeting
All PEDCO members are invited to attend the Board of Directors Annual Meeting from Noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019, in the Pierre Chamber community room.

The main purpose of the annual meeting is to elect nominees to the board of directors. A nominating committee will develop the slate of nominees. Members interested in consideration by the nominating committee may contact PEDCO at [email protected] . Officers are selected from the board at the December meeting.

Food and beverages will be provided to registered members. To register for the annual meeting, please email Alicia Fabel at [email protected]. by COB Wednesday, Nov. 13.

PEDCO Notice of Elections
The Pierre Economic Development Corporation will nominate board members at its Nov. 18 annual meeting. In accordance with PEDCO's bylaws, the nominating committee is submitting the following slate for approval by the membership:

Meredith Lee, Lee Real Estate (Chamber Liaison)

Current board member nominations for renewal:

Doug Abraham, May Adam Law Firm

Additional nominations may be made from the floor by members during the Annual Meeting.

Loan Program Overview
PEDCO currently has six loans outstanding that support a wide variety of community interests, including small businesses, housing, healthcare and tourism. If your Pierre or Hughes County business is in need of new, short-term financing (up to five years) for working capital, real estate or construction, contact PEDCO at 224-6610. Below are the program guidelines:

Eligible  Uses of Funds
  • Business purposes including: start up costs, purchase of land, site improvements, machinery and equipment, and interim construction loans
Ineligible Use of Funds
  • Purchase, construction, renovation or tenant improvements of an eligible place of business that is for passive real estate investment purposes
  • Refinancing purposes
  • Repay delinquent taxes
  • Reimburse funds owed to any owner
Ineligible Borrowers
  • Speculative Development
  • Lending institutions, insurance companies
  • Business engaged in pyramid sales
  • Gambling concerns and private clubs
  • Business engaged in activities prohibited by law
  • Business that are not members in good standing of PEDCO
Structure
  • PEDCO may fund up to 45% of a project in a subordinated lien position
  • Bank or credit union must participate in a project with a minimum of 20%
  • Borrower must demonstrate that credit is not available elsewhere on reasonable terms
The Process
  • The bank or credit union will share its credit analysis with PEDCO for review
  • PEDCO Executive Committee will meet to review the project on an as-needed basis
Collateral
  • Second on assets that banks or credit union takes as collateral
Fees
  • To insure ongoing compliance with the membership requirement, an origination fee equal to the minimum annual dues over the term of the note will be added to the loan
Retail Briefs
Report: US retailers reported slower Sept. sales
US retail sales dipped 0.3% in September from the previous month, according to the Commerce Department, marking the first month-to-month dip in seven months. August sales growth figures were revised upward from 0.4% to 0.6%, and September's sales were up 4.1% compared to the same month last year. CNBC (10/16)

Report: Gyms are moving into retail centers
The number of gyms in retail centers has jumped 23.5% since 2010, according to a report by JLL. Centers anchored by grocery stores are most popular for gyms, the report shows. Chain Store Age (10/14)

Companies pay for employees to travel for cheaper health care
Amazon will pay for employees with cancer to travel to City of Hope in Los Angeles for care, part of a growing trend among US companies that find they can negotiate better care at more competitive prices by bypassing local providers. Medical Tourism Association CEO Jonathan Edelheit said companies with increasing health costs send employees abroad for less expensive care, and one saved $20 million over five years because workers went out of the US for orthopedic and weight-loss surgeries. The Wall Street Journal (10/15)

Survey: People still visiting malls for the experience
Of the 20,000 people surveyed for Shopkick, 90% said they visit malls, 60% shop there once a month and 18% went once a week. Although foot traffic has declined, young people still meet at malls for a taste of independence, and older people go there together to walk for exercise. The Motley Fool (10/9)

Walmart hiring more data scientists for AI initiatives
Walmart is adding to its team of around 1,500 data scientists as it looks to implement artificial intelligence across more of its operations. "We're involved in robotics, we're involved in micro-personalization, we're involved in probably the biggest supply chain in the world," says Chief Data Officer Bill Groves. Business Insider (10/8)

Big-box stores seek to outdo each other in energy efficiency
Retailers are working to improve their energy efficiency, partially in response to consumer interest in sustainability as well as the rapidly dropping cost of solar power. "Target and Walmart are competing over who can be greener," says Gregory Wetstone, president and CEO of the American Council on Renewable Energy. The New York Times (10/7)

Survey: Seasonal trends could reflect sustainability concerns
About half of US consumers said they would give unwrapped gifts this holiday season to cut down on paper waste, and two-thirds said they would be happy to receive unwrapped presents, according to an Accenture survey. The data reflects an increased focus on sustainability, with 56% of respondents also saying they would welcome vintage and preowned gifts. Forbes (10/3)

CVB Report
Lois Ries, Convention & Visitors Bureau Director
It's Christmas time in Pierre with Christmas at the Capitol. This year's theme is "A Hometown Christmas". Nearly 100 Christmas trees fill the rotunda and hallways of the capitol for the 39 th year. The Christmas trees are decorated by schools, churches, communities and civic groups from across the state. November 26 is the lighting ceremony and the official start to the viewing of the trees. The display will be open to the public from November 26, 2019 through December 26, 2019, 8am - 10pm (CST) each day.

Other parts of the Capitol building will also be decorated, including the grand marble staircase and the Capitol grounds. The big South Dakota tree that is featured in the rotunda will be decorated by the SD Realtors who are celebrating their 75th anniversary.

Many events go on during the holiday season. If you are planning an event, be sure to get it on the Chamber of Commerce community calendar.

This will be my last article for the newsletter. I will be retiring the end of November. The CVB has been a huge part of my life for the last 11 years. It has been an honor to have this opportunity to encourage visitors to come to Pierre and enjoy all the unique and fun things we have to do here. I have enjoyed working with the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce Staff - Jamie, Katie, Mallory and Alicia - they are the best; Jim with PEDCO, South Dakota Tourism, South Dakota Convention & Visitors Bureau Association, Pierre BID, Visitor Industry Alliance, City of Pierre and all of the tourist attractions and businesses in Pierre and across the State of South Dakota. I will miss working with all those wonderful colleagues. It has been an unforgettable experience.

 
Membership Report
Katie Johnson, Membership Director
2019 is coming to a close and we are looking forward to 2020. In the past week we have started to meet with members to discuss our new dues structure! Our new Membership Advantages were approved by our Board of Directors after learning how the structure change would affect each of their businesses. We have learned our old dues structure was a little dated and needed better definition of what you get for your investment.

With our new membership packet, the benefits will be clearly defined for each membership level; you will learn how you can get more involved with the chamber, and most importantly, tips on how to get the most out of your membership investment. Our goal is to meet with all chamber members throughout the year and explain how the changes will benefit your bottom line. We are currently meeting with our members who renew in January, February and March, but will attempt to meet each member before the year is over. If you are interested in learning more right away, give me a call and we can schedule a meeting!

Help us ring in the holiday season by joining us for the 19th Annual Parade of Lights. Line up for the parade starts at 5pm in Riggs parking lot, and the parade will begin at 6pm on Monday, November 25 th. Registration forms are available at the Chamber. Pre-registration is requested but not mandatory. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place entries, in addition to the Mayor's Choice, Griswold and People's Choice awards.

Tuesday, November 26 th is the Grand Tree Lighting in the Capitol rotunda; the trees are always so b eautiful, and it really gets you in the Christmas spirit!

Shop Small Saturday is Saturday, November 30 th. It is a great opportunity to be Loyal2Local and shop our small local retailers as you start your holiday shopping. Many great items can be found right here in the Pierre/Ft. Pierre area!
Be sure to call the Chamber today to reserve your table for the Chamber's Annual Celebration on Thursday, December 12 th at Drifters! Our entertainment this year is SongBlast Dueling Guitars from Minnesota. If you google them, you will understand why we are so excited for this event!

Thank you for investing in your chamber, and we look forward to visiting with you soon!
Ope! Sorry We Missed You!

 
I would like to apologize for unintentionally not listing some of our sponsors for the 'Imagine This! Tour of Homes' in last month's newsletter. This is such a great event and would not be possible without the sponsorship's from these great businesses. So, THANK YOU again for all your help, your time, your donations, and your membership! 
Sincerely, 
Katie Johnson, 
IOM Membership Director
New Member
Resurrection Lutheran Church
103 N. Taylor Ave
Pierre, SD 57501
605-224-7100
 
Resurrection Lutheran Church exists in response to the good news of the Gospel, which is ours by faith in Jesus Christ. Our mission, to enable our members to experience the grace and acceptance of Christ within God's family.
Member Highlights

Please contact Mallory if your business or organization is celebrating something 
at  [email protected] or 605-224-7361.
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
In tourism, sports and travel shows can be a large part of the marketing budget. Attending a show can be costly, so you need to look for ways to keep those costs reasonable. Planning wisely can be the key.

Choose your shows wisely. Are they in your target marketing area? Can attendees get to your area and business easily? Is what you're promoting the right "fit" for the audience you will be talking to.

Researching different display booths is very important. The weight and size of the exhibit enters into the picture. If you are taking the booth with you to the show, you'll want something that is easy to pack, maintain and easy to store between shows. If you are shipping the booth to a show you need to consider the weight.

Getting attention to your product or business is the main reason for attending a show - so focusing on certain details ahead of time can be important. You'll need a theme or brand that catches attendee's attention - if a visitor is confused about what you're promoting you will have lost their interest immediately. Consequently, your graphics are extremely important. To be successful you need to drive a high level of traffic to your trade show booth. One other possible way to bring attention to your business is to partner with another entity in your area - although you are competition, there will be double the exposure for the same cost.

Handing out free merchandise is something else you can offer. Promotional items can assure your name and brand will be remembered. The promotional items must make a connection between your business and the customer.

Promoting ahead of the actual show dates can also be beneficial. Marketing in show programs or the local newspaper will bring visitors your way. Social media promotions are also a great way to alert potential customers to where you will be exhibiting - and what they can see when they get to your booth. Always include your booth number if you can.

When exhibitors plan ahead after deciding to promote through trade shows they can come away with great benefits. Research is the key.
Leadership Pierre

Leadership Pierre met on Thursday, October 10 for Session 2, which focused on education and the opportunities in the Pierre and Fort Pierre area. Thank you Avera, our Session 2 sponsor.

Chamber Events

Fall Business After Hours
Fall Business After Hours was hosted by Avera on Thursday, October 17th in the Helmsley Center. Avera@Home, Breast Health & Radiology, CareFlight, Avera Cancer Institute, St. Benedict's Guest House, Volunteer Services and Orthopedics were all on hand to give information on services they provide. A delicious caramel apple station and snacks were provided by Branding Iron Bistro. Winter Business After Hours will be at The Fieldhouse in February 2020. See you there!

Save the Dates!

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November Calendar of Events

November 1-2: Grey Goose Road Halloween Display. Final Days: Friday, November 1 and Saturday, November 2 from 6:00 - 10:00 PM. 19988 Grey Goose Road, Pierre. For more information, email: [email protected] . Free.

November 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 22, 29: "Seasoned Citizens" Chair Workouts. Tuesdays through November 12 from 9:00 - 9:45 AM at Pierre Senior Center; Fridays through December 20 from 10:00 - 10:45 AM at Parkwood Apartments. Contact Mindy Cheap, Recreation Superintendent, at (605)773-7445 for more information. Free for Senior Center members and Parkwood residents. For all others, $12 for one day per week and $24 for 2 days per week.

November 2-3: Canvasback Art Club 24th Annual Art Show. Saturday, November 2 from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM and Sunday, November 3 from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Community Room at Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce, 800 W Dakota Avenue, Pierre. Free.

November 3: Anytime Fitness Fall 5K. Saturday, November 2. Registration from 10:00 - 10:45 AM, Race begins at 11:00 AM. Steamboat Park Amphitheater. Preregister at The Right Turn or Anytime Fitness. For more information, email: [email protected] . Fee: $30.

November 3: 30th Annual Casey Tibbs Foundation Tribute Dinner. Saturday, November 2 from 6:00 - 10:00 PM. Casey Tibbs Rodeo Center, 210 Verendrye Dr. Fort Pierre. Call (605)494-1094 for more information. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
November 3: Hank Harris Live at Drifters, Fort Pierre. Saturday, November 2from 6:30 - 9:30 PM. Free.

November 3, 10, 17, 24: Open Skate at PAYSA Rink (behind Walmart). Sundays from 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Contact Sara at (407)590-7484 for more information. $3 to skate, $2 to rent skates.

November 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27, 28: Adult Education and Literacy Classes. Mondays & Wednesdays from 3:00 - 7:00 PM and Tuesdays & Thursdays from 8:30 - 11:45 AM at The Right Turn, 115 E. Sioux Ave. To register, call (605)773-4755 or email [email protected] .  Free to attend if over 18.

November 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27: Zumba Gold. Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:00 - 9:45 AM at the Oahe Family YMCA's Multipurpose Room. Last class is December 18, 2019. Contact Mindy Cheap at (605)773-7445 for more information. Free for Senior Center and Y members, $12 for one day a week or $24 for two days per week.
November 4, 6, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27: "Seasoned citizen" Tai Chi. Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 - 10:45 AM at the Oahe Family YMCA's Multipurpose Room. No class November 11. Last class is December 17, 2019. Contact Mindy Cheap at (605)773-7445 for more information. Free for Senior Center and Y members, $12 for one day a week or $24 for two days per week.
November 4, 5, 7, 11, 12, 14, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28: Reading Buddies . Mondays from 12:45 - 1:15 PM at Buchanan Elementary; Tuesdays, from 1:45 - 2:15 PM at Kennedy Elementary; Thursdays, 10:00 - 10:30 AM at Pierre Indian Learning Center; the first Monday of each month from 2:30 - 3:00 PM at Blunt Elementary; Thursdays from 12:45 - 1:15 PM at Stanley County Elementary. Contact Teri Royer at (605)224-3337 for more information. Volunteers needed.
November 4, 11: Basic Dog Obedience Class (Final Classes of the 6-week Course). Mondays through November 11 from 6:30 - 7:30 PM. Pat Duffy Community Center, 19 East Main Avenue, Fort Pierre. Contact CUC at (605)779-2160 for more information and to preregister. $40 per dog.
November 4: Canvasback Art Club. Monday, November 4 from 7:00 - 9:00 PM at Rawlins Library, 1000 E Church St. Pierre. For more information, contact Bev Letellier at (605)224-7993 or email [email protected]
November 5, 12, 19, 26: Touching Hearts Fundraising Raffle Drawing with The Right Turn. Drawings every Tuesday at 9:00 AM. Call (605)773-4755 for more information. Raffle tickets can be purchased at The Right Turn, Don's Sinclair, Branding Iron Bistro, The Fieldhouse, and Dakotamart. $20 for 5 tickets or $5 each.
November 5: Volunteers Needed at Food Bank. Tuesday, November 5 from 5:30 - 7:30 PM. Feeding South Dakota, 20562 Grace Avenue. Contact Feeding SD at (605)494-3663 for more information.

November 5, 12: Common Sense Parenting. Tuesday, November 5 & 12 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Oahe Child Development Center (Head Start Building), 23017 E Capitol Avenue, Pierre. Contact Dawn Tassler at (605)224-3189 for more information. Free.

November 5: Women's Suffrage Centennial. Tuesday, November 5 from 7:00 - 8:30 PM at Ramkota, Pierre. For more information, email: [email protected] .

November 6: Mabel's Family Support Group - Alzheimer's & Dementia. Wednesday, November 6 from 12:00 - 1:00 PM at Edgewood. Contact Katie Nagle at (605)494-3400 for more information. Free to attend, $7 for lunch (please RSVP).

November 6, 13, 20, 27: River City Toastmasters. Wednesdays from 12:10 - 12:50 PM at Lutheran Memorial Church, basement conference room. Contact Brian Underdahl at (605)220-1003 for more information. Free.

November 6: Stanley American Legion Post 20 Monthly Meeting. Wednesday, November 2 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Moose Lodge. Email Royce Loesch for more information: [email protected]

November 7-8: 4th Annual 'Share the Warmth' Coat Drive Give Away from 1:00 - 6:00 PM in the Trinity Center of First United Methodist Church, 117 N. Central Ave. Contact Charlene Lund, 224-7132

November 7, 21: Breast Cancer Survivors. Thursday, November 7 & 21 from 12:00 - 1:00 PM at 415 S. Crow Street, Pierre. Call (605)945-0827 for more information.

November 7, 14, 21: Spanish Conversation Course. Thursdays through November 21, 2019 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. Capital University Center, 925 E. Sioux Avenue, Pierre. To register, contact CUC at (605)773-2160. $130 course fee plus book cost.

November 8: Ribbon Cutting at Walmart for new remodel at 8:00 AM.

November 9-10: Zonta Holiday vendor & Craft Show at Ramkota River Centre, Pierre. Saturday, November 9 from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM and Sunday, November 10 from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Contact Callie at (605)295-4831 or Kelli at (605)280-1511 for more information. Admission is free.

November 11-16: Community Appreciation Week at the Oahe Family YMCA. Thursday, November 14 Staff Soup Cookoff is from 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM. Saturday, November 16 Early Morning Breakfast starts at 5:30 AM and Family Swim with Norbert is from noon - 4:00 PM. For more information, contact Aaron Fabel at (605)224-1683 or email [email protected] . Free.

November 11: Stately Stitchers Guild Meeting. Monday, November 11 from 6:45 - 8:45 PM at Lutheran Memorial Church (basement), 320 E Prospect Avenue, Pierre. For more information contact Pam Hoepfer at (605)280-0443 or Barb Friedman at (605)224-6482.

November 12: Chamber's Hospitality Committee Meeting. Tuesday, November 12 from 4:00 - 5:00 PM at Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce (boardroom), 800 West Dakota Ave, Pierre. Contact the Chamber at (605)224-7361 for more information.

November 14: Buffalo Ridge Brewing Project Tap Takeover at Drifter's Bar & Grille, Fort Pierre. Thursday, November 14 from 4:00 - 10:00 PM. For more information, email: [email protected] .

November 14: Ribbon Cutting and Open House at Pierre Beautiful and Creative Hair Designs from 4:00 - 6:00 PM with  the Ribbon Cutting at 4:30, one after the other at 105 & 107 E. Capitol Ave.

November 14: Breastfeeding Class at Avera St. Mary's Hospital (cafeteria conference room). Thursday, November 14 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. Contact Dawn Tassler at (605)224-3189 for more information or to register (required). $10, scholarships available.

November 14: Central SD Survivors of Suicide Support Group. Thursday, November 14 from 6:30 - 8:00 PM. Email Julie Moore for more information: mailto:[email protected] . Free.

November 16: Sibling Readiness Class at Avera St. Mary's Hospital. Saturday, November 16 from 9:30 - 10:30 AM. Dawn Tassler at (605)224-3189 for more information or to register (required). $5, scholarships available.

November 16: YMCA Pizza Pool Party for 1st - 5th Graders. Saturday, November 16 from 6:30 - 9:00 PM at Oahe Family YMCA. For more information, contact Lisa Maunu at (605)224-1683 or email [email protected] . $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

November 16: Capital Area Snow Queen. Saturday, November 16 from 7:00 - 9:00 PM at Pierre Music Store. For more information contact Jessica Meffers at (605)290-3852 or email: [email protected] . Free will offering.

November 18: Bariatric and Weight Loss Support Group. Monday, November 18 from 7:00 - 8:00 PM at Sanford Clinic. Contact Angie Bollweg at (605)945-5560 for more information. Free.

November 21: Dementia Caregivers Support Group. Thursday, November 21 from 6:00 - 7:00 PM at 415 S. Crow Street. Call (605)945-0827 for more information.

November 22: Annual Christmas Tree Lighting & Cowboy Christmas at Pat Duffy Center. Friday, November 22 from 4:00 - 8:00 PM. For more information, contact Sunny Hannum at (605)223-7603 or email: [email protected] . Free will offering for chili cookoff.

November 23: Capital City Farmer's Thanksgiving Market. Saturday, November 23 from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM at the corners of Sioux and Coteau, Pierre. For more information, visit www.capcitymarket.com or contact Lindy Geraets at (605)22-1290.

November 25: PARADE OF LIGHTS 2019. Monday, November 25. Lineup at 5:00 PM at Riggs High School Parking Lot. Parade begins at 6:00 PM. For more information, visit www.pierre.org or contact the Chamber at (605)224-7361.

November 26: Pierre Area Right to Life Meeting. Tuesday, November 26 from 6:30 - 8:00 PM at Birth Right Facility, 318 South Henry, Pierre. Email Irma LeFaive for more information: [email protected]

November 26: Christmas at the Capitol Grand Lighting Ceremony. Tuesday, November 26 from 6:30 - 7:00 PM.
November 27-30: Christmas at the Capitol. Every day through December 26 from 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM at the South Dakota State Capitol. Free and open to the public.
November 27: KC Hughes Band at Drifter's Bar & Grille. Wednesday, November 27 from 7:00 - 11:00 PM. For more information, email [email protected] . Free.
November 28: Turkey Trot 5K/10K. Thursday, November 28. Registration begins at 9:00 AM, race begins at 10:00 AM. Race begins and ends at the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce. For more information, email [email protected] .
November 30: SHOP SMALL SATURDAY 2019. Saturday, November 30. Kick off the season by shopping local!
November 30: The Greatest Gift of All. Saturday, November 30 at 2:00 PM & 3:00 PM at Riggs High School Theater. For more information, email Sunny Hannum, Artistic Director for Hosanna Dance: [email protected] . Free will offering.

For future months, go to www.pierre.org