P ierre Area Chamber of Commerce
December 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 December 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
President's Report
Pierre Mayor's Report
Fort Pierre Mayor's Report
Capital City Economy
PEDCO
Retail Briefs
CVB Report
Membership Report
New Members
Member Highlights
Leadership Pierre
Chamber Events
December Calendar of Events
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
 
 
 
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

 
President's Report
Jennifer Anderson, Chamber President
Your Pierre Area Chamber board of directors and staff is in the final throes of 2019. With that comes new faces and new ideas.
I would like to take a minute to thank the Board for choosing me as its President this year. My focus going into this position was internal procedures and operations, as well as facilitating a revolving strategic plan. As I reflect on the past 12 months, I believe my mission is complete. We have revised and approved new organizational Bylaws. We created a task force and implemented a new Membership Dues structure to better align with our value-added service to members. We have a new strategic plan that takes us well into the future as the membership focuses change. And we are in the final review of a revised policies and procedures manual. None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the collaborative efforts of every board member and every staff member. Thank You for your time and ideas as we worked through some often "hefty" decisions! I couldn't ask for a better group to work with!
In closing, I would also like to encourage each of you, as members of the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce, to consider getting involved as a volunteer on a committee that interests you. We have a bright and exciting future in the Pierre Area! Now is the time to get involved and be a part of it!
I hope to see you at the Annual Celebration on December 12th at Drifters!


Pierre Mayor Steve Harding's Report
It's been said...  Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.
That's certainly true here in Pierre, and that's why I am so very thankful for the thoughtful and committed partners and volunteers we have in our community. So, let me use this opportunity to call out a few of the partnerships and a few more of the volunteers who are thoughtfully changing our little corner of the world.
This summer both the Oahe Softball Complex and the Griffin Park Baseball field got upgrades thanks to local users groups that are helping us raise the bar.
The Oahe Softball Association leveraged some of its resources to help us add shade structures, new backstop fences, new fence line, and a sound system at the softball complex. At Griffin Park Baseball Field, it is the Capital City Baseball Association that has a vision and resources to add a new grass infield, new fencing and dugouts, and shade structures. Both groups are leveraging support from the local BID board to complete these projects.
A dog park is also taking shape in Pierre. And that initiative is very much thanks to a local group of interested real estate agents who are putting equity and sweat equity into realizing the new feature in southeast Pierre. We have a dedicated capital campaign cabinet that's hard at work expanding Pierre's new outdoor pool. Plus, a variety of volunteer community advisory boards that work with our citizens and staff to drive these improvements forward.
In the public safety realm, we recently welcomed a new partner to the table -the Helmsley Foundation. It's supporting life-saving activity here with the donation of new AEDs for all of our police vehicles. I'd be remiss if I didn't give a nod to our local firefighters who train and respond throughout the year -they're all volunteers!
My list could go on and on (like the dozens of businesses and hundreds of volunteers who help Pierre Go Green and Clean each spring); we have many thoughtful and committed citizens making a difference in Pierre.
This holiday season, I'm taking the time to say thank you to these groups and many more. I hope you'll do the same -after all, they're changing our world!

Fort Pierre Mayor Gloria Hanson's Report
Want to keep your property taxes from increasing? Shop in your hometown. Seriously. You're Christmas shopping anyway, and you're paying sales tax even if you shop online. Buy as much as possible in Fort Pierre, support your local economy, and save gas as well. Sunny Hannum, Fort Pierre Development, helped me come up with some suggestions:
  • Camper accessories from Chase Auto & RV
  • Power tools or grills (Webber, Traeger, CharBroil, etc.) from Lynn's Dakotamart
  • Gift cards for dining out from Drifters Bar & Grille, Perkins, Silver Spur Restaurant, Chateau Lounge, Chuckwagon or Pizza Ranch
  • Gift card for fuel, food or beverage from Dakotamart, Cowboy Country Store, Yesway, Casey's General Store or Metro City (Throw in a car wash from Yesway)
  • Pendleton bags, scarves, gloves, hats, mugs, wallets, socks, towels, blankets, shirts, and jackets at Dakota Emporium; also mesquite lamps inlaid with turquoise and adorned with copper shades.
  • Women's clothing and jewelry, Ariat men's shirts and jeans, unique footwear at Total Beauty
  • Auto detailing certificate from Catlin's Car Clinic
  • Oil change certificate from WW Tire or Ray's Garage
  • Laptops, desktops, monitors, or tablets from Wind Circle
  • Bicentennial items (Fort Pierre history book, ornaments, mugs, shotglasses, book bags, t-shirts) at the Log Cabin.
  • Fort Pierre cookbooks, trail maps, prints, greeting cards, t-shirts and sweatshirts sold by the Verendrye Museum at the Log Cabin.
  • Furniture, appliances, and home dĂ©cor at Bad River Furniture
  • Heated handgrips for 4 wheelers, motorcycle covers, MC and ATV service kits at Prairie ATV
  • Cell phone accessories, mugs, frames, hats, gloves, wall dĂ©cor, candles, and various Christmas items at Shane's Pharmacy
  • Christmas decorations, toys, clothing, household dĂ©cor, gift wrap and bags at Family Dollar
  • Green Mountain grills, barbecue accessories, and seasonings at Sioux Nation
  • Guns and ammunition at Teton River Traders
  • Golf certificate from Dunes Golf Course
  • Certificates for dog and cat grooming at Bow Wow Meow Pet Clinic
  • Custom leather tack, purses, wallets, checkbook covers, etc. at Buckin Swank Leather
  • Rodeo-related items (jewelry, artwork, wine, books) and many products from local artisans at the Casey Tibbs Rodeo Center gift shop
  • Gift cards/certificates from any of the above!!

Happy Shopping! From all of us in the City of Fort Pierre, we wish you a safe and joy-filled Christmas.


     Capital City Economy
August 2019
Current Month
Same Month 2018
Percent Change
2019 YTD
2018 YTD
Percent Change
CITY TAX RECEIPTS
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pierre 2%
$721,741
$656,133
10.0%
$5,231,586
$5,197,004
0.7%
Pierre 1% BBB
$51,789
$50,524
2.5%
$356,849
$360,277
-1.0%
Fort Pierre 2%
$115,012
$112,217
2.5%
$780,104
$748,471
4.2%
Fort Pierre 1% BBB
$13,357
$11,000
21.4%
$81,077
$80,606
0.6%
OCCUPANCY TAX
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pierre BID #1
$23,896
$22,298
7.2%
$155,612
$154,080
1.0%
 
 
AIRPORT BOARDINGS
 
 
 
 
 
 
SkyWest
1,680
862
94.9%
7,460
6878
8.5%
 
 
DAILY TRAFFIC
 
 
 
 
 
 
Missouri River Bridge
15,906
15722
1.2%
116,364
117,786
-1.2%
US 14 East of Pierre
3,429
3305
3.8%
23,517
23,288
1.0%
 
 
CITY OF PIERRE BUILDING PERMITS
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential:
New Homes
Stick Built - Number
0
2
2
7
   Dollar Amount
$0
$383,570
0.0%
$590,000
$1,644,570
-64.1%
Other* - Number
0
0
2
4
   Dollar Amount
$0
$0
0.0%
$121,900
$136,000
-10.4%
Remodeling
Number
1
6
36
37
   Dollar Amount
$9,300
$109,700
-91.5%
$319,912
$321,331
-0.4%
Commercial:
New Buildings
Number
0
1
5
5
   Dollar Amount
$0
$400,000
0.0%
$5,738,340
$2,493,112
130.2%
Improvements
Number
6
5
29
14
   Dollar Amount
$991,800
$943,894
5.1%
$2,469,964
$2,536,615
-2.6%
Total Permits**
Number
78
120
438
650
   Dollar Amount
$1,301,852
$2,177,326
-40.2%
$12,168,707
$10,455,306
16.4%
 
 
HUGHES COUNTY BUILDING PERMITS
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential:
New Homes
Number
0
3
4
7
   Dollar Amount
$0
$925,000
0.0%
$1,290,000
$1,925,000
-33.0%
Other* - Number
0
0
1
2
   Dollar Amount
$0
$0
0.0%
$122,000
$70,000
74.3%
Remodeling
Number
7
7
66
30
   Dollar Amount
$147,158
$59,453
147.5%
$975,991
$549,483
77.6%
Commercial:
New Buildings
Number
0
0
1
5
   Dollar Amount
$0
$0
0.0%
$278,000
$568,000
-51.1%
Improvements
Number
1
0
3
0
   Dollar Amount
$25,000
$0
0.0%
$181,900
$0
0.0%
Total Permits**
Number
13
17
94
67
   Dollar Amount
$455,539
$1,319,161
-65.5%
$3,919,191
$4,316,455
-9.2%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
WORK FORCE                
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pierre MiSA***
Total Work Force
12,920
12,676
Total Employed
12,606
12,368
Total Unemployed
314
308
Unemployment Rate
2.4%
2.4%
* 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

GOED, Housing Featured at PEDCO Meeting
Mike Harsma, Director of Single Family Development at the S.D. Housing Development Authority, updates PEDCO members Nov. 19 on the new DakotaPlex affordable housing program. The first triplex built by inmates at the Mike Durfee State Prison in Springfield, was placed later that same day in Tyndall.
After the business of electing new board members was done, two featured presenters spoke to the PEDCO membership during its Nov. 19 annual meeting.

Mary Lehecka Nelson, Deputy Commissioner at the Governor's Office of Economic Development, commended her hometown leaders for the progress that has been made in just the past few years. In particular she cited the investments in healthcare programs and facilities, as well as recent commitments to quality of life enhancements like securing quality air service, renovating the Boy's and Girl's Club, and approving a new outdoor pool and water treatment plant.

Lehecka Nelson is also excited for the new highway bridge to be built over the Missouri River. "My husband works in the bridges section at DOT, so it will be nice to get past all the questions about if or when it will get built."

Economic development efforts by the state, according to Lehecka Nelson, include expanding internet access, enhancing habitat and growing the cybersecurity industry into the next big industry for South Dakota.

Housing alternatives also took center stage at the meeting. Mike Harsma, Director of Single Family Development at the S.D. Housing Development Authority, provided an update on the DakotaPlex program.

DakotaPlex is an extension of the successful Governor's House program that offers two- and three-bedroom homes to be combined in one development to reduce land and site development costs. Unit costs range from $54,700 for a one bedroom unit to $66,700 for a three bedroom unit, including delivery.

The affordable housing units are currently only available within the city limits in communities of 5,000 or less in population. Immediately after the meeting, Harsma was headed to Tyndall to place the first DakotaPlex triplex configuration on its foundation.

In other corporation business, PEDCO officers for 2020 were nominated. Election of officers will occur at the December meeting. The nominees include Ron Wager, Chairman; Andy Hubbart, Chair-Elect; Kim Easland, Treasurer; Mark Anderson, Secretary; and Doug Abraham, Rick Dockter and Gordon Woods, Trustees.
 


Beck Receives PEDCO Award
Longtime PEDCO board member Trace Beck was presented with the Vernon Award for excellence Nov. 19 during the corporation's annual meeting. Pictured are, from left, son Bryan Beck, wife Lynn Beck, Trace Beck, brother Steve beck and his wife Jamie.
Trace Beck, who next month ends a 15-year term on the PEDCO Board of Directors, was presented with the corporation's highest award Nov. 19 at its annual meeting.
Beck becomes the 15th winner of the Vernon Award that was created in memory of Vern Schuetzle, a local realtor who inspired many residents in this community to get involved and give back. The award is for outstanding contributions to the growth and development of Pierre.
His run of five three-year terms started in 2005 after a successful one-year term as president of the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber president serves as a non-voting liaison to the PEDCO board, and the monthly meeting exposure confirmed that promoting economic development would be a good fit for both parties.
Beck was elected chairman of PEDCO in 2007. "It came with one condition," says PEDCO COO Jim Protexter. "Trace felt one year was not enough to get comfortable and know how to get the job done, so he suggested we switch to two-year terms. It has been that way ever since."
Beck took advantage of the new term by participating in hostings with Eagle Creek Software Services. In his second year, PEDCO completed a new 37,000 square foot, $5.2 million office to lease to Eagle Creek. The workforce peaked at 110 employees, and to date the project has injected more than $25 million in new payroll into the community.
"Trace formed the relationships and rallied a lot of partners to make that project happen," says Protexter. "It gave Pierre the opportunity to convince close to 200 people that Pierre could be their new home, and generated new investment in our rental housing market."
For his efforts, Beck was presented with the South Dakota Excellence in Economic Development award from Governor Mike Rounds during the 2008 GOED Conference.
Protexter adds that Beck was also good for PEDCO. Past financial records indicate the corporation's balance sheet in 2007 fit on just one page. Total assets of the corporation peaked in 2016 at over $6.8 million, requiring a second page to list all the accounts.
Beck is also credited for pushing for more incentives to spur commercial development. During his term on the board, Pierre started to realize the potential of using Tax Increment Financing to get deals done that otherwise wouldn't. Shooting Star Plaza (Arby's, Papa Murphy's), Eagle Creek, the ClubHouse Inn & Suites and Menard's are all examples of the successful and appropriate use of TIFs in Pierre.
In 2010 Trace Beck and his brother, Steve, made their own commercial development investment in Pierre, and without any incentive. The state-of-the-art Chevrolet dealership was completed in 2012 and serves as an anchor for future development in Northeast Pierre. They recently celebrated 50 continuous years as a dealership in South Dakota.
Outside of PEDCO, Beck serves as South Dakota's director on NADA's Board of Directors. Beck Motors is involved in the Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve program and supports a number of different organizations such as the St. Mary's Foundation, Feeding South Dakota, St. Joseph School, United Way, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Alzheimer's Association, Pierre sports including Post 8 Baseball and many others.
In 2017, Beck again went the extra miles to promote his community. He enlisted his son, Bryan, to join him on a week-long journey away from work and family to represent Pierre in nine cities across the upper Midwest in the historical documentary "Fireball Run."
Trace lives in Pierre with his wife, Lynn, as does his son Bryan, wife Grace and grandson Kenny.
Clark, Saripalli elected to PEDCO Board
Zach Clark and Prakash Reddy Saripalli were elected Nov. 19 to three-year terms on the PEDCO board of directors during its annual meeting. Joining Clark and Saripalli for a consecutive term is Doug Abraham of May Adam Law Firm. Incoming Chamber president Meredith Lee will also join the board as a liaison to the Chamber during 2020.
Zach Clark was born and raised in Pierre. He graduated from the University of South Dakota with a degree in Business Management.
After college, Zach began his career in the insurance industry in Rapid City. In 2008, Zach moved back to Pierre and purchased Bob Clark Insurance in 2014, which is now known as Clark Insurance. Clark Insurance specializes in selling individual and group health insurance products.
Zach enjoys connecting with people and serves on several civic organizations in his home town. He also enjoys hunting, coaching his children and spending time on the river with his family and friends. He and his wife Liza were married in 2010 and have two daughters, Kenzie, age 6 and Izabelle, age 4.
Prakash Saripalli was born, raised and graduated in Andhra Pradesh, a state located in the southern part of India. He migrated to the United States in early 2000, landed in California, then lived in Michigan before making Pierre his home in 2008. This completed the circuit - landed in the west, lived in the east and settled in the midwest.
Prakash and his wife own and run My3Tech, an IT Solutions and Services business serving clients across the country, as well as 1 Stop Travel Plaza, a truck stop, gas and convenience store located in Pierre. He and his wife, Radhika, have two children, Mythri and Harsha.
Prakash enjoys spending time with family, watching his children compete in various activities, exploring new technology, and watching cricket and tennis. Prakash is very active in the community and is dedicated to further promoting business development and contributing to Pierre youth activities.


Retail Briefs
Report: Retail sales rose 3.1% in the first 10 months of 2019
US retail sales rose 0.3% in October from the previous month and sales in the first 10 months of the year were up 3.1% over the same period in 2018, according to the Commerce Department. Auto and fuel sales led the October increase, and consumers cut back on spending on apparel and big-ticket purchases. The Wall Street Journal (11/15)
Retailers optimistic about 2019 holiday season
A strong economy and low unemployment has retailers optimistic about the upcoming start of the holiday shopping season, despite changing consumer shopping habits and US-China trade tensions. The National Retail Federation is forecasting a holiday sales increase of between 3.8% and 4.2%, compared to a 2.1% increase in 2018. The Associated Press (11/14)
Online grocery sales fueled Walmart's Q3 growth
Walmart revised its full-year guidance upward, after reporting a 3.2% same-store sales increase and a 41% jump in e-commerce sales in the US for the third quarter. Online grocery sales are driving e-commerce growth for the retailer, which now offers home delivery from more than 1,400 locations and click-and-collect services at more than 3,000 stores. The Wall Street Journal (11/14)
Walmart adds Siri ordering to online grocery service
Walmart and Apple have teamed up to enable online grocery ordering through Siri, allowing shoppers to add items to their shopping carts through voice commands. The move comes a week after Walmart began its national launch of Walmart Delivery Unlimited. Supermarket News (11/12)
Why Gen Z prefers shopping in stores
Members of Generation Z were raised with digital technology but prefer to do their shopping in stores, according to NPD Group data. Consumers age 22 and under are less likely to have credit cards and they're also more likely to see in-store shopping as entertainment, NPD's Marshal Cohen said. CNBC (11/11)
Pharmacy chains look for ways to counter growing competition
US pharmacies are looking for ways to counter growing competition from online and new competitors, with the latest move coming from Walgreens Boots Alliance, which reportedly is looking at going private. CVS Health and Walgreens plan to close stores, while Costco and Instacart said they will test a free one-hour prescription delivery service in California and Washington state. Reuters (11/5)
Retailers negotiating for space in new Sioux Falls, S.D., shopping center
Construction hasn't started yet on the new retail center near the Empire Mall in Sioux Falls, S.D., but at least three businesses are in negotiations with commercial brokers for space. Lloyd Cos' Empire Place is expected to have seven buildings on the space once occupied by Autos on the Mall. Argus Leader (11/5)
Target, Walmart plan for panicked last-minute shoppers
Retailers have been getting an earlier start on holiday promotions and gearing up to handle last-minute shoppers who may be caught up short because of the shorter shopping season this year. Target will invest $50 million more than last year on fourth-quarter employee compensation to ensure staffing levels, and Walmart also is planning for last-minute crowds. The Associated Press (11/1)
Supermarkets build "dark stores" to meet pickup, delivery demand
Major supermarket brands are opening so-called dark stores and launching automated mini-warehouses within existing locations as they seek to fulfill customers' online orders. "Micro-fulfillment helps retailers solve the labor and last-mile costs conundrum," notes Jefferies analyst Christopher Mandeville. CNN (10/31)
Amazon offers Prime members free 2-hour grocery delivery
Amazon is making two-hour grocery delivery free for Prime members in 2,000 eligible regions, from services including Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market. "I think that this offering is truly a game changer and that this is going to grow into one of the most beloved benefits of Prime," says Amazon's Stephenie Landry. Reuters (10/29)
Survey: 43% of holiday shoppers plan to self-gift food, beverages
Food and beverage tops all other retail categories in planned self-gifting this holiday season, with 43% of shoppers intending to buy something from the segment for themselves, according to Deloitte. About 25% of those surveyed said they will do some of their shopping at a supermarket, and consumers expect to spend 36% of their budget in physical stores. Grocery Dive (10/25)
Shorter seasons don't take a toll on holiday sales, data shows
Thanksgiving falls later this year, shortening the holiday shopping season to 26 days. However, the perception that fewer shopping days mean fewer sales isn't necessarily the reality, according to data from NRF, which shows that US consumers have increased holiday spending every year but one since 2002. Bloomberg (10/27)
How Walmart, Target, Amazon aim to win more affluent shoppers
Walmart's recent launch of its InHome delivery test is part of the retailer's strategy to court higher-income shoppers, a demographic group that rivals Amazon and Target have long been wooing. Amazon's acquisition of Whole Foods Market and Target's focus on higher-end private-label lines have drawn more affluent consumers. Modern Retail (10/25)

CVB Report
Tia Kafka , Convention & Visitors Bureau Director
The Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce and CVB Staff decorate a rotunda tree every year. This years' tree was sponsored by BankWest for Pierre Players
Hello! I am excited to be joining the Pierre Chamber of Commerce as the Pierre Convention & Visitors Bureau Director and to get working on the 2020 marketing plan.
I am originally from Sauk Centre, Minn., and have lived in Pierre with my husband Joe and our two sons, Gavin (11) and Aiden (5) for the last eight years. We love the Pierre community and all it has to offer, especially for families.
There are many events and activities planned in the Pierre area that will take place over the holidays. For a complete list of events, please visit our website at www.pierre.org . If you are planning an event, please be sure to get the details on our Community Calendar. The Chamber of Commerce website is referenced often during the holiday season, and it is easy way to inform the community of your event! If you have questions on how to add an event, contact the Chamber at 224-7361.
Christmas at the Capitol is in full swing. The trees are on display from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, now through Dec. 26, 2019. Invite family and friends to view the trees, the display is spectacular every year. This year's theme is 'Hometown Christmas.'
Happy holidays to you all. I hope you will be enjoying time with family and friends, and don't forget shop local this holiday season! #Loyal2Local

Membership Report
Katie Johnson, Membership Director
2019 was another great year for the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce! We welcomed twenty-nine new members and celebrated twenty Ribbon Cuttings, Open Houses, and Ground Breakings!

Business After Hours events were very well attended this year. Our new format allows for more businesses to participate, creating a wider variety of patrons to network within a comfortable atmosphere. Our first Business After Hours for 2020 will be at The Fieldhouse in February, if you are interested in co-hosting one of four Business After Hours in the coming year, please give me a call as soon as possible - spots are filling up fast!

Loyal2Local has been a focus for the Pierre Area Chamber and we hope you will consider being loyal to local when you do your holiday shopping this year! Shopping Pierre/Fort Pierre first makes a difference to many businesses in our communities. Can't find the perfect gift? How about some Pierre Pride Dollars? They are available here at the Chamber in $5, $10 & $20 increments and are accepted anywhere in the Pierre and Fort Pierre areas!

Have you bought your ticket to the Annual Celebration this year? Mark your calendars! December 12th will be a night of rock and roll with Dueling Guitars entertainment, dinner, awards and networking! It is a great way celebrate the holiday season with your staff, office or group of friends while Song Blast entertains. Book your table now as spots are limited, we hope you will join us!

I would like to wish each of you a Very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year! And as always, thank you for investing in your chamber!

New Members
Pierre Beautiful Medical Aesthetics and Skin Care, LLC
Shaun Van Roekel
107 E. Capitol Ave
Pierre, SD 57501
605-222-2634
pierremedicalspa@gmail.com

This is a Medical Aesthetic Spa located in the historic district of Capitol Avenue. Each client will receive a customized treatment plan for natural-looking results. Services include Botox, Dermal Filler, IPL, Body Contouring and much, much more!
 
Creative Hair Design
Sarah Fry
105 E. Capitol Ave
Pierre, SD 57501
605-945-1012

We are your one stop for all the latest professional hair, cosmetic and retail products and services for the whole family!
Member Highlights

Please contact Mallory if your business or organization is celebrating something 
at  mgordon@pierre.org or 605-224-7361.
Shop Mom and Pop this Holiday Season 
(KELO.com)

PIERRE, S.D. (KELO.com ) - With Black Friday and Small Business Saturday only days away, retailers across the state are preparing for holiday shoppers.
The South Dakota Retailers Association is encouraging families to "Shop Mom & Pop" this holiday season, to support local communities and the business owners that support them.
"Mom and Pop businesses help define the unique character of our towns," said Executive Director Nathan Sanderson. "Support the shops that provided team uniforms, event space, meals, and supplies to activities in your hometown during this past year."
To Cash Hogan, owner of Hogan's Hardware Hank in Pierre, holiday shopping is personal. "My employees and I make coming into the store an experience, not just a mouse click," Hogan said.
Hogan and his employees know that to be a destination for shoppers this holiday season, they should focus on the customer experience. "For the holidays, we carry what people need, help them find it, and present it all in a fun way," noted Hogan. Care for the customer and the community is what local business does best.
Local retailers like Cash Hogan are committed to being a destination for shoppers this holiday season. Interesting and unique events and collaborations are also attracting shoppers downtown.
Main Street businesses strive to make downtown a friendly, inviting neighborhood for locals and visitors alike. These businesses also are a driving force in the overall satisfaction with the communities where people love to live, work, and raise a family.
"We all love the neighborhood feel of our cities and towns in South Dakota," said Sanderson. "It's the local charm of small businesses that keeps this sentiment strong." 
The South Dakota Retailers Association reminds consumers that:
  • When you shop local, you're making a personal investment in your neighborhood and community.
  • Small businesses employ more people directly per dollar of revenue, and they are also customers of fellow local businesses.
"The more you shop in your community, the more aware you are of what your town offers," Evans added. "It changes your mindset and you begin thinking locally."
Leadership Pierre

The objective of Leadership Pierre's Session 3 on November 7 th was to develop a better understanding of arts and culture in the Pierre/Fort Pierre area. Thank you to our Session 3 sponsors, Avera and BankWest.

Chamber Events

19th Annual Parade of Lights
The 19th annual Parade of Lights on Monday, Nov. 25 was a huge success, thanks to our participating floats and the Chamber Events Committee members. Congratulations to Fun Time Rentals for taking 1st place with their gingerbread house!

2nd place was awarded to Dakota Radio Groups' Toyland.

3rd place went to Ferding Electrics' Workshop.

Mayor's Choice Award went to Oahe Federal Credit Union' Worlds Apart float.
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South Dakota High School Rodeo Queen, Tashina Red Hawk, won the Griswold Award.

Beck Motor's Charlie Brown float was awarded the People Choice.

Open Houses & Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies

Walmart
Walmart held a Ribbon Cutting ceremony on Friday, Nov. 8 to celebrate the new store layout and Store Pickup area.

Pierre Beautiful
Pierre Beautiful Medical Aesthetics & Skin Care LLC hosted a Ribbon Cutting and Open House on Thursday, Nov. 14. Services offered include Botox, Dermal Filler, IPL, Body Contouring and much, much more!

Creative Hair Designs
Creative Hair Designs, found at 106 E. Capitol Ave., held a Ribbon Cutting and Open House to celebrate the new business owned and operated by Sarah Fry. Stop by 105 E. Capitol Ave. to see her on-hand Glo makeup and products, or to make an appointment!

Capital Area Counseling Service
Capital Area Counseling Service hosted an Open House and Ribbon Cutting on Sunday, Nov. 24 to celebrate the construction of their new facility, found at 2001 Eastgate Avenue.

Save the Dates!
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December Calendar of Events

December 1-26: Christmas at the Capital. Wednesday, November 27 - Thursday, December 26 from 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM, daily. South Dakota Capitol Building. Free.

December 1, 8, 15, 22: 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.

December 1: In Concert for Christmas. Sunday, December 1 from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM. First United Methodist Church, 117 N Central Avenue, Pierre. For more information, contact Elaine Scott at (605)224-5939 or email Pierre1UNC@mncomm.com

December 1: Spruce Top Porch Pot Workshop 3. Sunday, December 1 from 3:00 - 5:00 PM. East Pierre Landscape & Garden Center, 5400 SD Hwy 34, Pierre. For more information call (605)223-8832. Fees: $10 plus materials cost (finished pots usually cost $40-$80).

December 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19: Adult Education and Literacy Classes. Mondays & Wednesdays from 3:00 - 7:00 PM and Tuesdays & Thursdays from 8:30 - 11:45 AM. No classes the weeks of Christmas and New Year. The Right Turn, 115 E. Sioux Ave. To register, call (605)773-4755 or email kpauly@midconetwork.com .  Free to attend if over 18.

December 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18: Zumba Gold. Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:00 - 9:45 AM. Oahe Family YMCA 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.
December 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18: "Seasoned citizen" Tai Chi. Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 - 10:45 AM. Oahe Family YMCA Multipurpose Room. Contact Mindy Cheap at (605)773-7445 for more information. Free for Senior Center and Y members, $12 for one per week or $24 for two days per week.
December 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 12, 16, 17, 19: 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.
December 2-4: 15th Annual Tyler Wilcox Memorial Guns n' Hoses Blood Drive. Monday, Dec. 2 from 11:30AM - 6:00 PM at the Fort Pierre Fire Station. Tuesday, Dec. 3 from 11:30 AM - 6:00 PM at Pierre Faith Lutheran Church. Wednesday, Dec. 4 from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Pierre Faith Lutheran Church. Contact Vitalant, 605-225-7732 or 877-258-4825. Website code: pierregunsandhoses
December 2: Canvasback Art Club. Monday, December 2 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 ranchvet66@yahoo.com
December 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: 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.
December 3: Volunteers Needed at Food Bank. Tuesday, December 3 from 5:30 - 7:30 PM. Feeding South Dakota, 20562 Grace Avenue. Contact Feeding SD at (605)494-3663 for more information.
December 4: Mabel's Family Support Group - Alzheimer's & Dementia. Wednesday, December 4 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).

December 4, 11, 18: River City Toastmasters. Wednesdays from 12:10 - 12:50 PM. Lutheran Memorial Church, basement conference room. Contact Brian Underdahl at (605)220-1003 for more information. Free.

December 4: Stanley American Legion Post 20 Monthly Meeting. Wednesday, December 4 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Moose Lodge. Email Royce Loesch for more information: royceloesch@gmail.com

December 5, 19: Breast Cancer Survivors. First and third Thursdays of every month from 12:00 - 1:00 PM. Countryside Hospice Support & Memory Center, 415 S. Crow Street, Pierre. Call (605)945-0827 for more information.

December 5: Spruce Top Porch Pot Workshop 4. Thursday, December 5 from 3:00 - 5:00 PM. East Pierre Landscape & Garden Center, 5400 SD Hwy 34, Pierre. For more information call (605)223-8832. Fees: $10 plus materials cost (finished pots usual cost $40-80).

December 6, 12: "Seasoned Citizens" Chair Workouts. 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.

December 6&7, 12-14: Pierre Players Presents "Arsenic and Old Lace" at 7:30 PM. Contact the Box M-F: 5-7pm and 2 hours before doors open, 605-224-7826 email info@pierre.players.com .

December 6-27: Light Up The Pierre Area with the 1st annual Holiday Light Competition. Register by Dec. 5 to be included in the competition by emailing your name, address and phone number to contactchamber@pierre.org . Lights must be ready and go on by Dec. 6 at 6:00pm nightly until December 26.

December 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14: Pierre Players Presents "Arsenic and Old Lace." 7:30 PM on Friday December 6; Saturday, December 7; and Friday, December 12 through Sunday, December 14. 2:00 PM on Saturday, December 8. Grand Opera House, 109 S Pierre St, Pierre. For more information, email info@pierreplayers.com . Admission: General $15, Seniors & Students $13. $5 for all admission on preview night, Wednesday, December 4 at 7:30 PM.

December 7: Pie Day at the Capitol from 11 AM - 3 PM.

December 7: Santa at The Alley Exchange. Saturday, December 7 from 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM.

December 7: A New Christmas Tradition Concert with a Cowboy Twist. Saturday, December 7 from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM. T.F. Riggs Theater, Pierre. From more information contact Carmen Magee at (605)280-8938 or Gary Heintz at (605)222-0079. Admission: $20 at the door.

December 7: A Country Christmas on Ice at the Expo Center, 320 Casey Tibbs St. starting at 7:00 PM. Free will offerings accepted.

December 9: Stately Stitchers Guild Meeting. Monday, December 9 from 6:45 - 8:45 PM at Lutheran Memorial Church (basement), 320 E Prospect Avenue, Pierre. For more information contact Myrna Buckles at (605)222-6847.

December 10: Chamber's Hospitality Committee Meeting. Second Tuesday of every month from 4:00 - 5:00 PM. Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce boardroom, 800 West Dakota Ave, Pierre. Contact the Chamber at (605)224-7361 for more information.

December 12: Chamber Annual Celebration, Featuring Dueling Guitars. Thursday, December 12 from 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM. Drifter's Bar & Grille, Fort Pierre. For more information, call (605)224-7361. Admission: $65 per person or $500 per table of 8.

December 13: Women's Cancer Support. Second Friday of each month from noon - 1:00 PM at Avera St. Mary's Helmsley Center Cafeteria Conference Room. For more information contact Gloria at (605)224-3100 or email gloria.rowen@avera.org .

December 13: Swisher's Dance Club from 7:30 - 1:00 PM at the American Legion Cabin. Contact Bev at 222-1401

December 14 : Women of the Moose Craft and Vendor Fair from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Contact Melissa Neyhart, 605-280-8493 or Kristin Bowen, 605-222-8540

December 14: Christmas Café and Bake Shoppe at First Congragational United Church of Christ, 123 N. Highland Ave. from 2:00 - 4:00 PM. Contact 224-5514

December 14: YMCA Pizza Pool Party for 1st - 5th Graders. Saturday, December 14 from 6:30 - 9:00 PM at Oahe Family YMCA. For more information, contact Lisa Maunu at (605)224-1683 or email lisa@oaheymca.org . $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

December 14: Central SD Survivors of Suicide Support Group. Fourteenth of every month from 6:30 - 8:00 PM. Email Julie Moore for more information: mailto:julie.moore@avera.org . Free.

December 16: Bariatric and Weight Loss Support Group. Third Monday of every month from 7:00 - 8:00 PM. Sanford Clinic, 521 E Sioux Ave, Pierre. Contact Angie Bollweg at (605)945-5560 for more information. Free.

December 18: Lunch & Learn for Early Childhood Providers at The Right Turn, 115 E. Sioux from 12:30 - 1:15 PM. Contact 605-773-4755

December 18: Building Resiliency - Early Childhood Training at The Right Turn, 115 E. Sioux from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. Admission: $5. Contact 605-773-4755

December 19: Lunch & Learn: Pre-Legislative Tour at the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce, 800 W. Dakota Ave. from 12:00 - 1:00 PM. Contact 605-224-7361

December 19: Dementia Caregivers Support Group. Third Thursday of every month from 6:00 - 7:00 PM. Countryside Hospice Support & Memory Center, 415 S. Crow Street, Pierre. Call (605)945-0827 for more information.

December 19: Holiday Jam with the Hegg Brothers. Thursday, December 19 from 7:00 - 9:00 PM at T.F. Riggs Theater. Purchase tickets from the Rotary Club, Boys and Girls Club or Prairie Pages. Adults $20, Students $10.

December 20: Men's Cancer Support. Third Friday of every month from noon - 1:00 PM at Avera St. Mary's Helmsley Center Cafeteria Conference Room. For more information contact Gloria at (605)224-3100 or email gloria.rowen@avera.org .

December 21: The Barstool Prophets at The Fieldhouse. Saturday, December 21 from 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM. For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/628668897663914/.
For future months, go to www.pierre.org