Growing Places

On this episode of Growing Places SMGA's Economic Development Specialist Chris Fields visits with Chad Kinsley, CEO and Erica Fitzhugh, Communications and Public Relations Manager at Southeastern Electric Cooperative. If you're a member don't forget to mark your calendar for Southeastern Electric's annual meeting on Thursday, June 5 at 5pm.Chad's Hidden Gem: Lee's Meats in Tea, SD and Rural MFG in Freeman, SDEric's Hidden Gem: The Den in Salem, SD

On this episode of Growing Places SMGA CEO Tyler Tordsen sits downs for another episode of our Mayors Series. Joining him are Mayor Butch Osbey of Crooks as well as Mayor Arden Jones of Hartford. They discuss their history serving their cities as well as a large scale regional wastewater facility slated to serve their towns.Mayor Jones' Hidden Gem: Hartford Main Street Farmers Market Buffalo Ridge Brewing and Hartford SteakhouseMayor Osbey's Hidden Gem: Critters (Lucky Ladz) - Dakota Rosken's Dakota Pizza

In this episode of Growing Places SMGA CEO Tyler Tordsen and Economic Development Specialist Joshua Chase sit down the Mayor of Valley Springs, Rick Larsen. Rick is a veteran and career firefighter who is passionate about bringing new people to Valley Springs who he is sure will enjoy it as much as he has. He's standing by to give personal tours of the town he leads and loves!Mayor Larsen's Hidden Gem: The robust trail system in Sioux Falls

On this episode of Growing Places SMGA CEO Tyler Tordsen and Economic Development Specialist Chris Fields sit down with a very special guest--Jay Buchholz. Jay is the Manger of Public Relations and Key Accounts for Sioux Valley Energy. In addition his work at Sioux Valley Energy, Jay has held many positions on the Sioux Metro Board of Directors, most recently serving as the Past Chairman of the Board.Jay's Hidden Gem: South Dakota State Parks

SMGA CEO Tyler Tordsen and Economic Development Specialist Joshua Chase are joined by Jay Mitchell, Sioux Empire Market President for First Interstate Bank on this episode of Growing Places. Tune in to hear what makes First Interstate Bank a special place in a city with so many options!Jay's Hidden Gem: Kuehn Park Golf Course Special Mentions: Lenkota GC and The Bridges at Beresford

EOS Implementer Will Powell stops by to chat with SMGA CEO Tyler Tordsen and Economic Development Specialist Joshua Chase. Will brings a wealth of perspective to Growing Places and his clients while helping them to implement the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) in order to advance their businesses and business practices. Will puts his teachings into practice in his own business, Podyum, where he and his team work to place athletes across the world. Will's Hidden Gems: Palisades State Park and Good Earth State Park

Break down some acronyms with us in this latest episode of Growing Places. SMGA's Tyler Tordsen and Joshua Chase sit down with a very special guest and Hartford native -- Sadie Swier, Director of SD CEO East Women's Business Center.Sadie's Hidden Gems: Hartford Steak Co. Tavern, El Mezcal, and Dells Theatre.

In this episode of Growing Places, SMGA President and CEO Tyler Tordsen sits down with Tim Meagher, Chief Operating Officer for Vanguard Hospitality, to talk about providing quality meals to Metro patrons using locally sourced ingredients and working with local producers. Listen-in to hear about Tim's career, his wine endeavors, and how those experiences influence his mindset while providing a top of class dining experience in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.Tim's Hidden Gem: Union Social in Harrisburg, SD. 

In this episode of Growing Places Sioux Metro Growth Alliance President and CEO Tyler Tordsen and Economic Development Specialist Joshua Chase sit down with Eli Seeley, the Mayor of Beresford, South Dakota. Mayor Seeley's Hidden Gems: Creme and Sugar, Wake & Bake, Rainy Day Coffee Co., Kava Rose Brewhouse, Klassix, and Bertz and Bertz Beer Garden. Visit us here to learn more about Sioux Metro Growth Alliance.

In this episode of Growing Places, SMGA CEO Tyler Tordsen sits down with Executive Director of Lewis and Clark Regional Water System - Troy Larson! Tune in for a discussion covering Troy's background, Sioux Falls eateries, and SMGA's 2024 Growth Summit on water.  Get tickets to the 2024 Growth Summit here! Troy's Hidden Gem: Lalibela Ethiopian RestaurantRecommendations: Sambusa or Beef Tibs (Troy gets both!)Hidden Gem: "something valuable or special that is not well know as maybe it should be. It can refer to a person, place, or object, preferably in the in Sioux Metro."

On this episode of Growing Places SMGA CEO Tyler Tordsen sits downs with Mayor Casey Voelker of Tea and Mayor Danny Fergen of Lennox.Mayor Voelker's Hidden Gems- Squealers Smoke Shack in Tea and Sioux Valley Grille in Canton.Mayor Fergen's Hidden Gems- El Mariachi Mexican Restaurant in Lennox and the Royal Bake Shop in Centerville. Hidden Gem: 'something valuable or special that is not well know as maybe it should be. It can refer to a person, place, or object, preferably in the in Sioux Metro."

Director of Economic Development of Heartland Energy and SD Senate Majority Leader Casey Crabtree sits down with SMGA President/CEO Tyler Tordsen to discuss the 2024 General Election. In this episode of Growing Places, get to know more about Senator Crabtree's background, thoughts on economic development while serving in Pierre, and a breakdown on everything you need to know about the seven ballot intitiatives and constitutional amdendments which voters will decide on Tuesday, November 5th.Use the link below to find your polling place, view your sample ballot, or stop in your county auditor's office today!(https://vip.sdsos.gov/VIPLogin.aspx)Timestamps:Intro: 00:00 - 7:20Serving in Pierre: 7:20 - 17:17Early Voting: 17:17 - 20:00Constitutional Amendment E: 20:38 - 22:30Constitutional Amendment F: 22:30 - 24:20Constitutional Amendment G: 24:20 - 26:26Constitutional Amendment H: 26:26 - 30:44IM 28: 30:44 - 35:38IM 29: 35:38 - 37:40RL21: 37:40 - 41:24Senator Crabtree's Hidden Gem: Buffalo Trading Post Address: 24805 457th Ave. Colton, SD

Part II of the newest season of Growing Places where you get to know the other half of the SMGA team in longtime regional advocate Karen Ruhland and Pukwana MSA's very own Bryce Healy! Learn more about their roles and experience working for the Sioux Falls MSA.  Karen's Hidden Gem: "Four Wheelin on Ditch Road" north of Sioux Falls.Bryce's Hidden Gem: "All of them" in the Sioux Metro. 

Join us for this episode of Growing Places and meet some of the new SMGA staff. Learn about their new roles and the highlights of SMGA's 2024 event season. Josh's Hidden Gem: El Mariachi Mexican Restaurant in Lennox, SD. Chris' Hidden Gem: Palisades State Park near Garretson, SD.

Tune in to this episode and meet Tyler Tordsen SMGA's new President/CEO. Hear what excites him about this organization, how he got to this role, and why he chose to serve in the state legislature. Tyler's Hidden Gem: SD Game Fish and Parks

Jason and Amber Uphoff moved to Dell  Rapids three years ago and have began the journey of restoring one of the communities many historic buildings! Tune in to hear what drew their family to  Dell  Rapids, how they are renovating their building, and what the future of Downtown Dell  Rapids has in store! Jason's Hidden Gem: Pinz Bowling Alley in Dell Rapids and King Skull Ironworks in Garretson.

It's not very often these days the whole Sioux Metro Growth Alliance team huddles around the mics for a podcast episode. In this bittersweet discussion, Ryan, Sheldon, and Lisa reminisce with stories, celebrations, and lessons with Miranda Basye as she exits the the organization. Carrying much of SMGA's marketing, communications, events, and business relationships over the course of the last 8-9 months, listen to a few insights behind the process and planning of that work. Hidden Gems: Catalyst Tattoo - Centerville, SDThe Brewery - Salem, SDOther Links & Mentions:MirandaBasye.comMiranda@Cannonball.Digital

For nearly four years Jesse Fonkert has been at the helm of Sioux Metro Growth Alliance. After leading SMGA through unprecedented organizational growth, program expansion, and increased staff, Jesse joins the Growing Places Podcast in his final week serving SMGA before joining the Governor's Office of Economic Development as the Deputy Commissioner.  Jesse and your host Miranda Basye discuss Jesse's passion for economic development throughout the progression of his career thus far, lessons learned along the way, and of course a plethora of hidden gems in the metro.Hidden Gems:Buffalo Trading PostTucker's WalkThe Seed

SMGA's Ryan, Sheldon, and host Miranda join Intern Lauren Teller in discussing her internship, her impressions of economic development, and her plans for the future. Members of the SMGA team also offer pieces of sage professional advice and reflect on their own experiences as interns and young professionals. Plus! Check out this week's hidden gems! Hartford Steak Co.The GruffRuss's PlaceBlindert Insurance

Happy 50th Birthday Brandon, SD! In honor the city's milestone, we welcomed Jeremy Risty, President of the Brandon Historical Society and Social Studies teacher at Brandon Valley High School, as a guest in this week's episode.  Jeremy joins SMGA's Miranda Basye to discuss all things Brandon, including the restoration of a local 1870 cabin in collaboration with the City of Brandon and various community members.  Jeremy also talks about Brandon's 50th Birthday Celebration in collaboration with the Brandon Optimist Club, as well as his love for the growing community! Plus! Check out this episode's hidden gems!The Upper RoomPalisades State Park

Lennox, SD located just 15 minutes from the Sioux Falls Scheels boasts a desirable small-town charm and the buzz of growth. SESD Rough Sawn Lumber's owner and operator, Chris DeHann begins his journey of taking his 8-year venture to the next step of expanding his space and services to feature a full-service lumber yard with a ceremonial groundbreaking on July 10th.Chris, local landowner Paul Johnson and Lennox City Administrator Nate VanderPlaats all join SMGA's Miranda Basye in this episode of Growing Places to share their story to this milestone.Plus! Check out this episode's hidden gems!SESD Rough Sawn Lumber (Lennox Lumber Co)Chuck's Drive-in

Linda Kokenge, founder and owner of Zook's Coffee Bar in Tea, SD joins Miranda Basye in this week's Growing Places. Linda shares her story of entrepreneurship, her love for marketing, her passion for the community of Tea, and what might be next in the Zook's coffee owner's business ventures. Plus, catch this week's hidden gem, Palisades State Park in Garretson!Follow Zook's on Facebook and Instagram!

"Heart of Harrisburg" is a five-year initiative laying the foundation for a booming community future. Join Adam Walsh, Harrisburg Economic Development Corporation board chair, and Lisa Zens, Director of Economic Development to learn how Harrisburg continues to intentally grow. There's ample land, and the "Heart of Harrisburg" program provides for land use planning, and economic development that will complement business, educational, residential, and recreational activities that will position Harrisburg for a well-rounded economy in the decades to come.Plus, check out Adam's hidden gem, AirMadness! 

SD Secretary of Labor and Regulation, Marcia Hultman, and the Apprenticeship Program Manager, Tara Bartekoske join SMGA's Miranda Basye and Ryan Solberg in discussing SD's labor market trends, the StartToday SD Apprenticeship Program and of course their favorite hidden gems in the metro. PLUS, catch some data points about SD's work ethic and productivity trends!Email Tara's team! StartToday@state.sd.usGet business support for starting an apprentice program! https://www.starttodaysd.com/businesses/about

SMGA is thrilled to welcome Lauren Teller to the team as our 2023 Summer Intern! She's already made an impact to our work. As a Sioux Falls native and senior at Augustana University studying English, Government/International Affairs, and Spanish, Lauren hits the ground running with policy work, writing, and research.Learn more about Lauren in this week's Growing Places. Plus! Catch her favorite hidden gem, Lunch Thyme in Crooks!

Garrett Gross and Bob Fitch know a thing or two about storytelling. Add Mindy's technical expertise, and you've rounded out the skill set of one of the leanest, most impactful media teams in our region!AGE Media and Promotion, proud publisher of SMGA's own Growing Places Magazine joins host Miranda Basye to talk small town stories, business lessons, and relationship building. Plus, get clued in on a few NEW hidden gems out in the metro.Waddy's Bar - Hudson, SDChuck's Drive-in - Lennox, SDSchmeckfest - Freeman, SDManolis Grocery - Huron, SDInterested in advertising in an AGE Media publication (including the SMGA Growing Places Magazine)? Contact Bob or Garret today!Garrett Gross - garrett@agemedia.pubBob Fitch - bob@agemedia.pub

It's not often a town of 900 sees a tattoo artist setup up shop on main street.  Catalyst Tattoo owners, Stephan and Dan are enjoying life in small town South Dakota and finding success in their craft. Join this week's episode with Stephan, Dan, and Jared Hybertson to learn more about one of Centerville's newest businesses. We know you'll love the joy, energy, and excitement these gentlemen bring in the show!

DGR Engineering's Trent Bruce joins Miranda and Sheldon for this episode of Growing Places. We're thrilled to celebrate DGR Engineering as the 2022 Business Partner of the Year! Trent explains DGR's approach to solving complex problems and supporting each community to achieve their on unique growth needs and pushing the envelope to set communities in the Sioux Metro up for long-term success.Many wonderful hidden gems were mentioned in this episode. Here's a look at just a couple!Monarch Steakhouse - Renner, SDHartford Steakhouse

Each year the Governor's Office of Economic Development (GOED) highlights an individual who has excelled in economic development over their careers. This year, GOED honored two, one of which was Sioux Metro Growth Alliance (SGMA) President & CEO, Jesse Fonkert!In this episode, Jesse, Ryan, and Miranda reflect on Jesse's journey to his role today and what he looks forward to in the region for continued growth and development. Plus, we've got a long list of hidden gems mentioned!The Seed (Centerville, SD)El Tapatio (Brandon, SD)Lake Vermillion State ParkLake Time Steakhouse (Canistota, SD)Chuck's Drive-In (Lennox, SD)Lenkota Country Club (Lennox, SD)

As our region looks to increase housing options to give our growing workforce and families a place to call home, it's not always single family homes that help fulfill those needs. Denise Hanzlik, Executive Director of South Dakota Multi-Housing Association joins SMGA's Miranda Basye and Sheldon Jensen to discuss the pillars of advocacy and education. Denise also supports the Dell Rapids, SD community in her role as a city councilor. Learn more about supporting the Sioux Metro's housing needs, small town living, and some of Denise's favorite hidden gems in this episode of Growing Places!Denise's Hidden Gems:Order a coffee and treat at LaDelle and Fourth!Bowling, food and drinks at Pinz!Nature walks along the river.

The South Dakota Development Corporation (SDDC) team is more than good office mates. The small-but-mighty team at SDDC is making small business owner dreams come true every day! Brad Jankord, Vice President of Lending, joins Miranda Basye to discuss the ins and outs of 504 loans, his personal passion for finance and way too many hidden gems to count!Looking for a 504 loan, or interested in learning more? Contact Brad!Hidden Gems:PinzMonarch SteakhouseBuffalo Ridge BrewingPalisades State Park

Marmen Energy's presence just to the north of I90 near the Brandon exit is hard to ignore - where ginormous wind towers are carefully and expertly constructed. Yannick Laroche, one of the original Marmen leaders assigned to constructing and getting the Brandon location up and running, continues to call the Sioux Metro his home, noting he found love here. Join Yannick, Miranda, and Ryan in this episode of Growing Places for a bit of Marmen Energy history, education, and vision casting.Follow Marmen on Social Media for event information!Workforce developmentPlus! Check out Yannick's hidden gems for lunch!TailgatorsBottoms upThe Gruff

 At each annual meeting, SMGA recognizes the accomplishments of businesses, people, and communities from the prior year. Honored for Community Innovation was the City of Salem. Jeremy Grady, member of the Salem Economic Development Corporation and market president at First Dakota National Bank, joins the Growing Places Podcast to unpack the keys Salem's Exponential Growth where in less than one year, after devastating losses to the community from the 2022 derecho, the Salem community rebuilt a local Economic Development Corporation, rallied together in fundraising nearly $250,000 for local economic development work, and launched an industrial park, and already has future housing plans in the works. Jeremy's Hidden Gem - https://www.mccookcountryclub.com/ https://www.facebook.com/SalemSouthDakota/https://www.salemsd.com/https://www.firstdakota.com/Read more about Salem's accomplishments online here:2022 Partners in Progress Awards21-Acre Industrial ParkSalem Community Raises over $245,000 for Economic Development

Every community, organization, and business needs leadership. The right kind of leadership is essential in a growing community. This week's guest, Harrisburg Mayor, Derick "Digger" Wenck discusses his path to mayoral duties, community involvement, and of course the origination of the coolest nickname in local government, Digger.Interested in more information about what's going on in Harrisburg? Check out the links below!https://harrisburgsd.gov/https://www.harrisburgdistrict41-2.org/https://www.facebook.com/HarrisburgSoDak/https://www.harrisburgsdchamber.com/https://www.hedcsd.com/

Owning a gym let alone two wasn't the original plan for Rapid Fitness owner and founder, Matt Beukelman. And yet, here he and his wife, Margo, are, leading the charge for healthier living in two Sioux Metro Communities - Brandon, SD and Dell Rapids, SD.In this episode, Matt shares his journey of entrepreneurship with us and discusses his community-first approach to leadership as he grows his fitness network and his member impact. Everything from his routines to get energized, his philosophy on equipment and space, growth dreams, and supporting workforce development through internship and training programs!Connect with Matt and Margo!https://rapidfitnessonline.com/matthew.beukelman@gmail.comFacebookYouTubeOrder "The Margo" or "The Matt" at LaDelle and Fourth!

Travel South Dakota's Erin Weinzettel joins the Growing Places Podcast to discuss South Dakota's Passport Program highlighting the hidden gems across our state, many of which are located in small communities. We also discuss  some community marketing strategies and the Marketing Assistance Program offered to communities. Feel free to contact Erin or Calvin for any Travel South Dakota questions or community support! Calvin.Bloemendaal@TravelSouthDakota.comerin.weinzettel@travelsouthdakota.com

Owner, Founder, and lead cake lady at Sugar Palace by Emily, Emily Studemann  joins SMGA's Miranda Basye and Lisa Zens on this week's Growing Places. Emily shares her story of falling in love with frosting, gaining baking experience, and ultimately knowing she wanted to open up her own bakery since the age of 16. Tune in to hear more about Harrisburg's newest sweet spot!

This week Sheldon sits down with Eric Pauli, Community Relations Manager for Xcel Energy. Eric shares his background from serving as a lineman to moving into the corporate side of the utility world. Eric also speaks on different grant opportunities Xcel offers our community members. Tune in to hear about the future of the electric utility world as well! Eric would love to connect via phone at (605) 321-6006.Eric's Hidden Gems: Rocky Run Golf Course, Dell Rapids, SD, and Big J's Roadhouse, Harrisburg, SD!

This week Miranda and Sheldon sit down with Jared Hybertson and discuss Sioux Metro Growth Alliance's newest municipal member: Centerville, SD! Jared is the executive director of the Centerville Development Corporation. In our conversation, we hear about the history of Centerville, the unique retail opportunities the community offers, and the city's new housing development. Contact Jared at 605-563-2302 to learn more about his community. 

This week the SMGA Team sits down to learn more about their newest teammate, Miranda Basye! Miranda is joining SMGA as the Director of Engagement working on Marketing, Events, and Fundraising. Tune in to learn more about her, why she is excited for this role, and a story about why Minnows lead to strong marketing!

This week Ryan and Sheldon sit down with the Dakota Institute CEO Dr. Jared McEntaffer. They learn about the resources this new organization will provide the region including business consulting and economic analysis. Dr. McEntaffer provides a unique look at what conditions our communities will face over the next few months. 

In this episode, the entire SMGA team (Jesse, Lisa, Ryan, and Sheldon) come together and provide a retrospective look at 2022 and share goals and predictions for what 2023 has in store! 

This week Callie Tuschen Co-Owner of Buffalo Ridge Brewing in Hartford, SD sits down with the SMGA team to share about her business and downtown Hartford. Buffalo Ridge Brewing started in 2018 and recently celebrated its 4th Anniversary. Tune in to hear about exciting plans for the future of downtown Hartford and a great story of entrepreneurship! 

This week Tyler Klatt, Assistant Commission Administrator with Minnehaha County swings by to provide SMGA with an update from the county. Our discussion focuses on the potential for a new county juvenile detention facility and the new highway department building under construction.

This week Rachel Neiman, Executive Director of the Brandon Valley Area Chamber of Commerce stops by to talk with Jesse and Sheldon about the Brandon Community. Tune in to hear about their Pizza Battle and the future of SMGA's largest community.

This week, Carrie Bell, Executive Director of the Harrisburg Chamber of Commerce sits down for a conversation with Sheldon about the explosive growth seen by the community. The Harrisburg Chamber supports the business community of Harrisburg and South Sioux Falls connecting members together through regular events and networking opportunities.

This week Sadie Swier with the SDCEO Women's Business Center East stops by the office for a conversation about her organization, how she ended up in her position, and the amazing programming SDCEO provides our region. Tune in to hear about the power of connection, a supportive ecosystem, and so much more.

Peter Hauck is the Assistant Director of the Prairie Family Business Association. This week Sheldon and Jesse sit down with Peter to discuss the vital role PFBA plays in the Sioux Metro's entrepreneurial ecosystem. PFBA provides a variety of resources for family businesses including retreats and peer groups. Peter is also a small business owner himself. Learn about Peter's business, his love for Caesar Salads and more by tuning in!

This week Sheldon sits down with Jay Buchholz and Ben Pierson from Sioux Valley Energy. Jay and Ben provide an overview of our power grid, electrical utiltities and the gradual shift to renewable energy. Sioux Valley Energy is hosting an Electric Vehicle Drive event on Thursday, September 29th at the Sioux Empire Fairgrounds. Learn more about this event by listening to our conversation!

This week Councilmember Mitch Rayman and Superintendent Matt Alley swing by for a conversation sharing the story of Salem, SD. Salem is SMGA's newest member community and this episode features a great overview of what the community has to offer, why it is unique in the metro and why the future looks bright!

South Dakota's Secretary of Tourism Jim Hagen and Industry Relations Representative Calvin Bloemendaal stop by the Sioux Metro offices this week for an engaging conversation about all things tourism in the Sioux Metro and South Dakota as a whole. They focus on the department's new strategic initiatives including the Great Finds Passport Program and how our communities can best attract tourists to stop on down.