With over 200 people involved in the informational day atthe 92nd Legislative Session, it is safe to say the day in Pierrewas a huge hit. The group spent their time at the State CapitolBuilding, South Dakota Crime Lab and Attorney General’sOffice, as well as attended a reception at the Ramkota RiverCentre. Nearly 100 Madison representatives discussed issues,shared stories of our progress, and promoted the greaterMadison area with over 80 legislators and 30 dignitariesthroughout the day. Coordinated by GMACC GovernmentalAffairs and Dakota State University, and sponsored by manyarea businesses, this was an active day for all participants:Leadership Madison, Chamber members, MHS students, DSU

leadership, faculty, staff and students. This successful eventprovided a great opportunity not only for our Madison group,but also for the legislators, cabinet officials, and the Governorto increase their awareness of the impact upon the state andregion by the greater Madison area.

To start the day off, constituents attended severalcommittee meetings and toured the Capitol building withguide, Steve Wegman. During the luncheon emceed byGovernmental Affairs Committee Member Erica Clements,they received an update from District 8 Legislators and heardfrom Leadership Madison Participants on their communityservice projects followed by MHS Student Council President,

Ella Graham. More joined the Madison Group during a visitfrom Governor Dennis Daugaard, followed by time in both theSenate and House Chambers. This year the area tour tookplace at The South Dakota Crime Lab with aPresentation/Q&A Session by Attorney General Marty Jackley.

During the evening reception Madison and DSUrepresentatives visited with Legislators, SD officials, andothers in an effort to continue building good relationships. Inaddition to individual conversations discussing Madison’sprogress, important issues, and areas of requested supportfrom legislators; we had twelve interactive presentations fromDakota State University faculty, staff, and students with otherdisplays from Madison Regional Health System, Chamber ofCommerce, and SD Association of Rural Water Systems Inc.

A newsletter of the Greater Madison Area Chamber of Commerce March/April 2017

Call us at 256-2454 | www.chamberofmadisonsd.com

See LEGISLATURE on page 3

Chamber Members, Madison residents, Chamber Staff, DSU faculty and staff, Chamber Leadership Madisonparticipants, and Madison High School student representatives with Governor Dennis Daugaard on the CapitolRotunda Stairway before his presentation to the group on Tuesday, January 31st during the 2017 Madison/DSUHosts the Legislature Day.

Another Successful Year for Madison/DSUHosts the Legislature—January 31, 2017

2 March/April 2017

ERIC HORTNESS,Executive Director

On January 31st, I had the opportunity totravel to Pierre as part of the Madison/DSUhosts the Legislature Day hosted by theMadison Chamber of CommerceGovernmental Affairs Committee and DakotaState University. While on the trip to Pierre Igot the opportunity to meet and get to knowpeople that I don’t normally come in contactwith on a day to day basis.

When we arrived at the State Capitol, wesat in on a committee hearing where bills areintroduced and either die in committee or aresent to the Senate or House for action. We alsohad the opportunity to watch as District 8Representative Marli Wiese was sworn intooffice. Plus, Governor Daugaard took time outof his schedule to meet with the Madison groupto answer any questions that we had.

The highlight of the trip, for me, was thechance to tour the South Dakota Crime Lab,Emergency Operations Center and DCI

Facility. The tour ended with a presentationand question and answer session withAttorney General Marty Jackley. We thenreturned to the Ramkota for a reception, whichis an opportunity to showcase our communityto the rest of the state.

In closing, I would like to encourage you totake the Madison/DSU Hosts the Legislaturebus trip next year. Also, make sure you checkout the many events that the Greater MadisonArea Chamber of Commerce has scheduledthroughout the year.

Note from theDirectorFrom the Board. . .

SHARON PATCHGMACC Board of Directors

Unique Boutique Consignment,LLC

As I look back on my first month as theExecutive Director, I have learned severalthings about your Chamber, our community,and the Greater Madison Area. Numeroustimes I have heard from others how active ofa Chamber we have, and how great of an areawe have to live and grow in. These commentsare not only coming from individuals withinour community, but also from individualsacross other parts of the state. I would like toecho those great comments that I havereceived, but the coach in me says, “there’salways room for improvement and growth.”

One of the best ways to improve and growindividually, as an employer/employee, andour community is to get involved with thecommunity activities, especially theChamber, that are available. If we (all of usincluded) want to help continue to grow ourawesome community, learning what the areahas to offer, meeting other area residents,and supporting local businesses is key.

Did you know that we have industries inMadison that work closely with very largecompanies? I have lived in Madison foraround ten years and I did not know thatinformation. The last couple of weeks, I wasfortunate enough to tour and learn aboutsome of our manufacturing plants. Google,Yeti coolers, and Carnival Cruise Lines arejust a few of the large companies that havepartnerships with Madison industries.

The Greater Madison Area Chamber ofCommerce (GMACC) has severalopportunities that will help you get involved.The GMACC has several committees that canalways use active volunteers. If you are anemployer that is a GMACC member, I wouldask yourself and your employees to considerbecoming a committee volunteer. I’mconfident that there is a committee thatwould coincide with your interests.

Participating in the “Off The ClockTuesdays” that the GMACC will be startingwould be a great way to network, meetothers, and socialize. The second Tuesday ofevery month from 4:00-6:00 p.m., theGMACC will hold the event. Each month willbe at a different location so make sure tocheck the Chamber’s Calendar of Events.

Speaking of new events hosted by theGMACC, I encourage all of you to look intoattending our bus trip to Schmeckfest onMarch 25th, in Freeman, SD. This is a chanceto get to know other members of thecommunity, learn about the rich Germanheritage in another Southeastern SouthDakota community, and help promote theofferings the Madison area has to offer. Keepon the lookout for other bus trips the GMACCplans on holding.

Attend the GMACC Annual Meeting to beheld on April 10th from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at theDakota Prairie Playhouse. I know “AnnualMeeting” is somewhat of a standoffish term.Consider it more of a “Find out what theChamber of Commerce has done the pastyear in a relaxed gathering.” There will alsobe some information on where the Chamberis headed in the next several months.

See Note on page 3

Saturday, February 11th GMACCGovernmental Affairs coordinated a District 8Cracker Barrel with committee Chair CottonKoch as the Moderator. Constituents filled theMadison High School Auditorium from thecommunities of Chester, Colman, Flandreau,Howard, Madison, Oldham, Ramona andWentworth for their chance to ask questions ofall 3 District 8 Legislators. Senator JordanYoungberg–Republican, serves on theAgriculture and Natural Resources Committeeand is the Vice-Chair of the Local Government

Committee, Representative Leslie Heinemann–Majority Whip Republican, serves on the LocalGovernment Committee and is Vice Chair of theHealth and Human Services House Committees,and Representative Marli Wiese–Republican,serves on the Education and TaxationCommittees. Each presented on current issues,bill statuses plus upcoming bills/amendmentsthat may still be submitted during the 2017Legislative Session. The Chamber appreciatesthe legislators time and district participant inputinto the 90-minute session.

A Passionate Legislative Cracker Barrel

Representative Leslie Heinemann (left), Senator Jordan Youngberg, RepresentativeMarli Wiese and Moderator Cotton Koch

BOARD OFFICERSKevin JaspersPRESIDENT

Ph: (800) 658-3953 BoD 2015 – 2016Farm Credit Services of America

Randy GiedtVICE-PRESIDENT

Ph: 256-3533 BoD 2016 – 2018PPD-USA, Inc.

Sara WardnerSECRETARY/TREASURER

Ph: 256-6655 BoD 2015 – 2017Amert Construction Co. Inc.

BOARD MEMBERSLiz Avery

Ph: 256-4536 BoD 2014 – 2019East River Electric Power Cooperative

Tom Bloom Ph: 256-3521 BoD 2015 – 2017

Lake County International

Dan BureshPh: 759-7346 BoD 2017 – 2019

Intuvio Solutions, LLC

Vicki KommesPh: 256-6628 BoD 2016 – 2018

Valiant Living

Sharon PatchPh: 427-0707 BoD 2015 – 2019

Unique Boutique Consignment, LLC

Lisa Schaefer Ph: 256-4539 BoD 2017 – 2019

Bethel Lutheran Home

Adam ShawPh: 256-7706 BoD 2016 – 2018

Madison Central School District

EX-OFFICIORobert Thill

Madison City Commissioner

Kelli WollmannLake County Commissioner

Dr. José-Marie GriffithsDSU President

Joel JorgensonMadison Central School

Superintendent

Aaron WalterCommunity Center Director

SFC Darin Rus211th En. Co. National Guard

Julie GrossLake Area Improvement Corp (LAIC)

Director

STAFFEric HortnessExecutive Director

Courtney StormPromotions & Committee

Coordinator

Danielle MantheyOffice Manager

That the Greater Madison Area Chamber of Commerce has a Facebook page,Instagram account and a Twitter Handle? Keep up to date with current Chambermember events, Chamber Committee events and other area happenings when you “like”our Facebook page or follow our Twitter and Instagram accounts! Find us on Facebookat Greater Madison Area Chamber of Commerce, on Twitter by following@MadisonChamber, or on Instagram by following madisonsdchamber. You can alsoaccess all three social media accounts by using the link on our NEW Chamber website atwww.chamberofmadisonsd.com

Did You Know . . .

3March/April 2017

Education and their facilities are vital toour improvement and growth, and we enjoy atremendous partnership with our schools anduniversity. We have two opportunities linkedto this partnership. The GMACC EducationCommittee will be accepting nominations forthe Outstanding Educator of the Year andFriend of Education Award. The GMACCEndowed Scholarship (to attend DSU) isavailable for Chamber family members oremployee family members to apply. Bothhave forms available on our website. Iencourage nominations and applications asthat is another way for you to get involved.

These are just a few of the manyopportunities the Chamber has for you to getinvolved. I invite any new businesses orindividuals to contact myself about joiningthe Chamber to assist with the collectivepromotion of businesses, our community, andattractions. Since 1930, Chambermembership, involvement, and financialsupport have been key in continuing theChamber mission. Thank you currentGMACC members for renewing yourmembership investment and the continuedcommitment to sponsorship of Chamberactivities in 2017. Together we will continueto improve and grow the greater Madisonarea.

Note from the Directorcontinued from page 2

LEGISLATURE continued from page 1

Erica Clements, GMACC GovernmentalAffairs Committee Member, District 8Luncheon Emcee.

Ryan Brunner, Commissioner of School& Public Lands presenting to the groupon their capitol tour.

L-R:Representative Leslie Heinemann, Representative Marli Wiese, and SenatorJordan Youngberg after District 8 Luncheon.

Attorney General Marty Jackley duringhis Q&A session at the SD Crime Lab.

Governor Dennis Daugaard discussingbills, government and more with Madisonconstituents.

Representative Marli Wiese being sworn in to office.

This day is very important for thecommunity and each attending to increaseknowledge of the legislation impacting thestate, to expand our understanding of thegovernmental process, and to become moreknowledgeable of our SD Capital history andfacilities

On behalf of the Chamber, thank you to allwho participated, the generous businesssponsors, and Dakota State University forcontributing toward the GovernmentalAffairs Committee. Madison/DSU Hosts theLegislature Day would not happen withoutour members, residents and students takingthe time to be active in their governmentalprocess and have an impact upon the future ofthe greater Madison area or without thesupport of our event sponsors.

CHAMBER MEMBERANNIVERSARIES

Celebrating

All Around Line Striping, LLC

{EST. 2012}Madison Vision Clinic

Dr. Ashley Crabtree{EST. 2012}

Unique Boutique Consignment, LLC

{EST. March 12, 2012}

Five Years

Twenty Years

Prostrollo’sAll-American Auto Mall

{EST. 1957}

Sixty Years

Silver Creek Productions{EST. 1997}

Seventy YearsAmert Construction Co., Inc.

{EST. 1947}Riggin Flight Services

{EST. 1947}

Thirty YearsThe Floral Shop

at Madison Nursery{EST. 1987}

43 programs andagencies to receivesupport, includingfour new recipients

Madison, SD – Interlakes Area UnitedWay announces $120,026 of communityfunding in 2017 to programs and agenciesserving Lake, Miner and Moody Counties.

“We are extremely grateful for thetremendous support we’ve received fromdonors across the region,” said IAUWPresident Rob Buchholtz. “Everyone deservesan opportunity for a better life, and a gift tothe United Way is in an investment in thatopportunity.”

Recipients must align with the IAUWmission to create long lasting change byaddressing certain community impact areas.

“We are fortunate to partner with groupsthat provide services in the areas ofeducation, income and health,” saidBuchholtz.

IAUW will support 43 programs andagencies in 2017. Among them are severalfirst-time recipients:

FLANDREAU PUBLIC SCHOOLWEEKEND FUEL

Weekend Fuel is a backpack program forFlandreau Elementary, providing additionalfood to students who may need it onweekends. Money from IAUW will be used topurchase non-perishable, easy to preparefoods. 51 students are currently enrolled inthe program, almost double from its first-yearenrollment.

HOWARD SCHOOL DISTRICTCHALLENGE DAY

Challenge Day is a one-day, interactiveworkshop designed to show that compassionand connection is possible in school. Students,teachers and community members gathertogether to explore the dangers ofcyberbullying and bullying, the consequencesof rumors, and the importance of health andwelfare, among other issues. Organizers hopethe activity will help students find commonground and unite as one student body.

RUTLAND HIGH SCHOOL TEXT4HELP AND CHESTER HIGHSCHOOL TEXT4HELP

Text4Help is a program operated throughthe Helpline Center, promoted to high schoolstudents as an easy way to communicate withsomeone when they are dealing with a crisis.Text4Help has found young people respondpositively to having the option to text someoneanonymously to talk about emotionalconcerns, such as relationship issues, familyconflict, depression and suicide. Both schoolsplan to implement the program to provide24/7 crisis assistance and support.

Other recipients include Inter-LakesCommunity Action Partnership, the Boys andGirls Club of Moody County, Dakota SmilesDental Program, Bethel Lutheran Home,High Plains Alternative School, Lake AreaImprovement ESL, Oldham RamonaAfterschool Program, SampleStrong, EastDakota Transit, and Community CounselingServices, among others.

To receive funding, organizations mustapply and meet allocation guidelines. TheIAUW board reviews applications andconsiders them based on a number of factors,including community impact, agencyprogram’s effectiveness and efficiency, agencyaccountability and fiscal management.

ABOUT UNITED WAY: There areapproximately 1,400 United Wayorganizations across the country that exist intheir respective communities. Interlakes AreaUnited Way is voluntary, not-for-profitorganization that unites communityvolunteers and agencies to address andprovide human care needs and to partnerwith other organizations to make ourcommunity a better place.

Funds contributed through the annualcampaign provide financial support for abroad range of programs and services in Lake,Miner and Moody counties.

4 March/April 2017

Interlakes Area United Wayannounces over $120K in

local funding in 2017

IAUW board member Lexy Sattler, left,presents a check for $3,000 to LyndiHudson and Todd Lee of Howard HighSchool. The money will be used to supportHoward School District Challenge Day.

FFA Members Thank the Chamber Ag Committee

L-R: Kaitlyn Graff, Morgan Briggs, and GMACC Executive Director Eric Hortness onbehalf of the Ag Committee.

As a partner with the GMACC Ag Committee on continued Ag awareness and Ageducation the Madison FFA Chapter officers delivered treats as a part of National FFAWeek to the Chamber on February 23rd.

Chamber Ag Committee members promoted the greater Madison area community in aneffort to thank area ag producers for choosing to do their business in Madison. The cow andheifer sale at Madison Livestock Sales Co., Inc. on January 21st brought together severalhundred people for the Ag Committee to provide cookies, coffee, and Dairy Queen Blizzardcoupons to the children during the appreciation event.

At the start of the sale, member Wayne Bessman, auctioneer of Bessman Auction &Clerking Services introduced the Chamber Ag Committee. Committee member Dave Ellensshared activities and programs coordinated by the Ag Committee of your Chamber. Thank youto Chip Wojse of Madison Livestock Sale Co. for allowing the Ag Committee to host theirappreciation during the sale.

GMACC Ag Appreciationat Madison Livestock Sales Co., Inc.

Ag Committee members showing their appreciation at Madison Livestock Sales Co.,Inc. L-R: Rob Thuringer – Peterson Farms Seed; Carolyn Rudebusch – Lake CountyConservation District; Tom Bloom – Lake County International; Jesse Letsche – F&MCoop Oil; Corey Strom and Melissa Palmquist – Mustang Seeds; Darrell Gerdes – WellsFargo Bank; and Dave Ellens – Lake Crop Services, Inc.Ag Committee members not pictured: Corey Gerry – Farmers Ag Center, LLC; KevinJaspers – Farm Credit Services of America; Paul Schultz – F&M Coop Oil; Terry Schultz– Mustang Seeds; Mark Stoller and Cassie Viet – Madison Farmers Elevator Co.

5March/April 2017

Greater Madison Area Chamber of Commerce & Member

Upcoming HappeningsMARK YOUR CALENDARS . . .On February 9th during a monthly committee meeting, members present took a break from

their planning for a photo. In an effort to help improve our quality of life within the Madisonarea the Chamber Community Promotions Committee coordinates many of the events andactivities to promote members, attractions, and buying locally. Members and employees arewelcome to join. Monthly meetings are held the second Thursday of every month at noon (exceptDecember). Information is on the Calendar of Events including the monthly location for eachor contact the Chamber at 256-2454.

GMACC Community Promotions Committee

Making Great Things Happen

2016 Committee Members pictured: L-R Melissa Lock (Community Volunteer), DickFawbush (Stan’s Men’s and Women’s Apparel), Co-Chair Peg Roehrich (KJAM), SheilaMott (Camp Lakodia), Laura Boeker (Kinzley Funeral Home), Co-Chair Stace Osthus(Cars for Les), Board Liason Lisa Schaefer (Bethel Lutheran Home), Chase Hanson,Melissa Hegg, and Travis Sterzinger (Madison Daily Leader)Not Pictured current members: Teresa Namken (Montgomery’s), Board Liason SharonPatch (Unique Boutique Consignment, LLC), Holly VanDyke (ENCORE Family Store),and Christina Mapp (KydenJae Designs)

On February 2nd, the Madison Taco John’s Restaurant remodel was recognizedduring their open house and Chamber Ribbon Cutting. Joining the community fromTaco John’s were General Manager Brittany Neisis, Regional Manager Tim Brown,and owner Brett Itterman. Taco John’s staff served those attending with freshcoffee, soft drinks, and samples of their delicious breakfast burritos with potatoole’s. Congratulations from your Chamber!

Taco John’s Restaurant Ribbon Cuttingand Grand Re-Opening

Ribbon Cutting

March 144:00-6:00 p.m.

"Off the Clock" TuesdayThe Pub House

March 235:30 p.m.

53rd Annual Mountain Oyster Dinner & Silent AuctionFundraiserNicky's Restaurant

March 251:00-11:00 p.m.

GMACC Bus Trip to Schmekfest in Freeman, SDEnjoy German demonstrations, booths, food and liveentertainmentReserve your seat today: office@chamberofmadisonsd.com

March 2611:00 a.m.

St. Thomas Pork Loin Dinner & AuctionSt. Thomas School Gym

March 285:00-10:00 p.m.

Lake County Pro Pheasants 35th Annual BanquetNicky's Restaurant

March 307:00 p.m.

Candidate ForumMadison High School Auditorium

April 19:00 a.m.

Discover DSU DayDakota State University

April 611:00 a.m.

Lake Area Improvement Corporation - Annual MeetingDakota Prairie Playhouse

April 105:00-7:00 p.m.

GMACC Annual Member Recognition and MixerDakota Prairie Playhouse

April 119:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

SD Department of Revenue Taxpayer AssistanceLake County Extension Office

April 114:00-6:00 p.m.

“Off the Clock” TuesdayMochavino, LLC

April 115:30 p.m.

DSU 2016-17 Honors BanquetDakota Prairie Playhouse

April 1510:00 a.m.

Easter Experience featuring KidzBlitz followed by an egg huntfor kids ages 1-10The DSU Fieldhouse

April 215:00 p.m.

Chamber Endowed Scholarship Application DeadlineVisit www.chamberofmadison.sd.com for application form andsubmit to office@chamberofmadisonsd.com

April 276:00-8:00 p.m.

DSU "Legends and Legacy"Dakota Prairie Playhouse

May 5 & 67:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Spring Citywide Rummage SaleStop into the Chamber office or visit chamberofmadisonsd.comto register. Deadline to register is April 28th

May 610:00 a.m.

Prairie Village Consignment AuctionHistoric Prairie Village

May 610:30 a.m.

Dakota State University Spring CommencementDSU Fieldhouse

May 710:00 a.m.

Prairie Village Opening DayHistoric Prairie Village

May 99:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

SD Department of Revenue Taxpayer AssistanceLake County Extension Office

May 94:00-6:00 p.m.

“Off the Clock” TuesdaySportsman’s Steakhouse & Lounge

The vendor registration form for the2017 Chamber Show & Sell is available

on our website atwww.chamberofmadisonsd.com.

Register now to reserve your spot!We are looking forward to the

November 25, 2017 event.We look forward to seeing past

vendors and new vendors at the showthis year!

Chamber Show & Sell

2017

6 March/April 2017

Mark your calendars and plan for aday of fun, food, exploring, and activities.The Community Promotions Committeeinvites organizations to consider the dayfor fund raising opportunities, exposureor just to get involved. Help make thiscommunity day even bigger than beforewith your ideas and involvement.

If interested contact the Chamber at256-2454 or members of the CommunityPromotions Committee. We want to hearfrom you!

5th Annual

is Saturday, July 29, 2017

DISCOVERY DAY

“We would like to welcome the following NEW members to the Chamber”Signature Realty Group, LLC

Brenda Thompson & Brad Benson726 S. Washington Ave. | Madison, SD 57042 | 427-7777 bthompson.signature@gmail.com | signaturerealtysd.com

New Real Estate Agency in Madison, South Dakota specializing in residential,agricultural, and commercial Real Estate. Signature Realty was founded in January 2017.

Brad and Brenda have a combined 24 years of experience, call or stop by for moreinformation! Home. Lives. Dreams.

Priority Real Estate & Development, LLCChrista Helma

119 W. North County Rd. Suite #1 | Freeman, SD 57029 | 925-4141Christ.helma@gmail.com | www.priorityrealestateservices.com

Christa is the Broker/Owner and founder of Priority Real Estate & Development LLC. Shemanages all agents, property listings, and the overall engagement of business growth.

Agents sell real estate in the Southeastern region of SD including Madison. Christa workstirelessly to put buyers and sellers together to reach optimum results. She loves what she

does and the friendships that are made with every transaction is the most rewarded part ofwhat she does.

Pampered Chef – Jessica Lee44812 SD Hwy 34 | Madison, SD 57042 | 270-9413

jessicalee123@gmail.com | www.pamperedchef.biz/jessicaleePampered Chef Independent Director, Jessica Lee, has 10 years of experience and helps

customers find solutions to their cooking challenges. Pampered Chef is the premier directseller of high-quality kitchen tools and exists to help you enjoy the moments most important

to you and yours by inspiring satisfying, stress-free meals fit for the way you live.

South Dakota National Guard 211th – Sgt. Darin RusPO Box 283 | Madison, SD 57042 | 256-5287

The SDNG 211th provides ready forces to support global and domestic requirements underthe direction of civil authority. Their federal mission is to provide combat ready, mission-

capable forces throughout the entire spectrum of conflict under the direction of thepresident. The state mission is to provide units to assist and support civil authorities in theprotection of life and property, preserve peace, order and public safety under the direction of

the governor.

2-1-1 Helpline100 N. West Ave Ste. 310 | Sioux Falls, SD 57104 | 2-1-1

help@helplinecenter.org | http://helplinecenter.orgThe Helpline center stands ready to help service members, veteran and their families when

they have simple questions, or when they need serious help, through its Courage to Callprogram. Courage to call is available by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting helplinecenter.org. Thereyou can find supportive information, military resources, an events calendar, and referrals

to non-profit and government services

LuLaRoe – Kimberly Halverson4064 226th St. | Winfred, SD 57076 | 270-6239

lularoe@kimberlyhalverson@gmail.comwww.facebook.com/groups/lularoekimberlyhalverson

Kimberly Halverson is a local individual consultant for LuLaRoe, where fashion meetscomfort. “Through fashion we create freedom, serve others and strengthen families. A placewhere lives are being blessed and dreams achieved through love, purpose, confidence, trustand growth.” LuLaRoe carries sizes XXS-3XL in women’s dresses, tops, skirts, leggings and

men’s tops and sizes 2-14 in children’s tops, leggings and dresses.

The Weston Group – Patricia Dougherty101 S. Reid St. Ste 307 | Sioux Falls, SD 57103 | 275-4747

trish@thewestongroup.com | www.thewestongroup.comThe Weston Group was founded in 2005 to provide businesses with the tools, resources andtraining necessary for effective employee management. Human resource management and

consistent practices are vital for all organizations to have in place. The Weston Groupassesses the company's practices and develops strategies and solutions tailored to enhance

organizational success.

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS

RegistrationOpen!

Janet Weber Sarah Wyant Jim and CherylIverson

7March/April 2017

Dakota State University East River Electric

Power Cooperative First Bank & Trust Great Western Bank Heartland Consumers

Power District

Lake Area ImprovementCorporation

Lake CountyInternational

Madison RegionalHealth System

SILVER ($250 - $499)2nd Street DinerFirst Madison

InsuranceMustang SeedsNorthWestern Energy

SD Association of RuralWater Systems

Sunshine FoodsWells Fargo Bank

BRONZE ($50 - $249)Classic CornerDairy QueenDerrill Hanson, DDSEast River FCUF&M Coop OilKrug Products, Inc.Madison Family DentalMontgomery’s

Pizza Ranch of MadisonProstrollo All-American

Auto MallState Farm Insurance-

Randy SchaeferWeber Abstract

Company

GOLD ($500+)

Take a moment to consider what you have done and whatyou want to change in 2017. There are many worthyorganizations in our community that make a difference.Opportunities through involvement are valuable for increasedexposure, aid in personal and professional growth, plusproviding benefits in learning from others whileaccomplishing a common goal. In addition, relationships aredeveloped and personal skills in communication, leadershipand cooperation are increased that positively impact ourcommunity, your business/organization, you and your familywhen you are involved. Perhaps you can find a cause or areafor improvement that matters to you, then give what you can.

Make 2017 the year you learn and experience more byserving on a committee, give as a mentor, volunteer, or makeregular donations of your time/funds to the groups in ourcommunity that makes this place we live a better place.There’s nothing like talking and cooperating with otherbusiness people for sparking new ideas, refining old ones, and

making contacts. As it is said, “many great ideas andrelationships are developed outside the board room”.

In early January, a panel of four spoke to LeadershipMadison participants on accepting the leadership challengethrough involvement and service at First Line FundingGroup. Their collective message reinforced that you get backfar more than you give through volunteering. Take the initialstep in an area you are passionate about and want to continueor expand. The panel members are each involved in severalorganizations in addition to their Chamber business ororganization.

The Greater Madison Area Chamber of Commerce, itsmembers and your community offer a variety of opportunitiesto get involved – decide to act this year. Contact the Chamberto consider where to start in finding opportunities that matchyour interests, time, skills and an area you want to enhance.Call today and “Discover the Unexpected” rewards you get bygiving to your community.

Leadership Through Volunteer Service Panel: L – R: Dick Fawbush- Stan’s Men’s and Women’s Apparel, TimCampbell-Thrivent Financial, Lori Norby-CU Mortage Direct, and Beth Bernard-Pizza Ranch of Madison

Getting Involved Has Life Long Rewards!

The Committee invites you to join themas an active and important group with theMission “to promote awareness andinvolvement in representative democracy”.They coordinate Madison/DSU Hosts theLegislature, Cracker Barrels, LegislativePreview and Candidate Forumstraditionally. We want you!

Pictured are (L-R) Tucker Hansen –Lake County Abstract, Jane Utecht –Dakota State University, Chair CottonKoch – Madison Central School, EricaClements – Madison Regional HealthSystem, Chris Studer – East RiverElectric Power Cooperative, andGMACC Board of Directors LiaisonDan Buresh – Intuvio Solutions.

Not Pictured: GMACC Board of DirectorsLisa Schaefer (Bethel Lutheran Home)and Adam Shaw (Madison CentralSchool)

GMACCGovernmental Affairs Committee

Your generous support allows us to have and promoteMadison/DSU Hosts the Legislature, District 8 Legislator’sMeet & Greet, Cracker Barrel, and local candidate forumsthroughout the year.

2017 GMACC Governmental Affairs Committee

Sponsors

Thank You!

8 March/April 2017

The GMACC Leadership Madison Program now in its 15th year, is sponsored byparticipating Chamber members, with the mission to “Grow Leaders” within our community,encourage additional participation in organizations, and to enhance the development ofleadership skills in individuals of the Greater Madison area.

Participants of the Chamber Leadership Madison attend eleven half-day sessions and oneall-day session over a seven-month period. Throughout the program, they are provided moreexposure to the community, presentations on leadership, and opportunities to further developrelationships. Participant small groups are determined based upon the results of theirinterests and strengths assessment that provides an opportunity for each member to furtherdevelop their leadership skills and share their unique strengths during the program.Participants then plan, implement, and complete their group determined community service

project with guidance from their Leadership Madison Committee member liaison. The 21 members of the 2016-17 Leadership Madison class once again researched areas of

need in the community, designed plans to implement community involvement, promoted theircause and managed their project as a small group to further develop leadership skills andrelationships with one another and community members. Each member volunteered theirtime and shared their collective expertise by providing to the greater Madison area througha community service project.

The participants presented their community service project information at the ChamberDistrict 8 Legislative Luncheon during Madison/DSU Hosts the Legislature in Pierre onJanuary 31st and during their 2016-17 commencement on March 14th. More about the fourcommunity service projects of the current Chamber Leadership Madison Class are below.

2016-17 Chamber Leadership Madison Class Develop Four Community Service Projects

Community Service Project Group “Bright Red Bookshelf” recirculates new and gently usedchildren’s books back into the community where they are made available free for families toown. Books were collected in red boxes at KJAM, Madison Daily Leader, Madison PublicLibrary, Trinity Lutheran Church and Wells Fargo from January 16th through January 30th

through a book drive. The books were sorted, cleaned, and affixed with a label, then set out onBright Red Bookshelves at The Community Center, Madison Regional Health System andPizza Ranch where children who need or want them will have easy access to them. This projectwill be taken over by the Kiwanis Club in an effort to increase book ownership in families,encourage parent-child interactions with books, involve members of the community in an effortto increase literacy through book donations, and enhance the services provided by localorganizations in serving as bookshelf hosts to the families they already serve.

“Bright Red Bookshelf” was coordinated by Chamber Leadership Madison members: SandraGeuther – Dakota State University, Patti Kennington – Kundert-Williams Insurance, AmberCoomes – Valiant Living, Keith Miller – Wells Fargo Bank, and Derrick Nielsen – ManitouGroup

Group Community Service Project “Winter Coat Drive” kicked off the winter season bycollecting winter coats for those in need. To come up with a project that would impact the Madisoncommunity, they visited with members of the community and people with strong ties to MadisonPublic Schools. They learned that there is a need for winter attire for our school youth and movedforward with a project that would keep our school population warm, a Winter Coat Drive.

Coats were collected at five local businesses: Campbell's Supply, Sunshine Foods, Shopko,The Community Center, and Madison Public Library. Collecting ran from November 11th throughDecember 11th. Coats were picked up from each location weekly, laundered over the weekend, anddelivered to the appropriate schools at the beginning of the following week. It was a successfulendeavor, bringing in over nearly 100 coats the first week, and over 250 coats total, then givento MCSD and St. John’s Lutheran Church. Many students received coats in early December asa benefit of the coat drive.

“Winter Coat Drive” Chamber Leadership Madison members are: Laurie Bunker – Cityof Madison, Stacy Millard – Thrivent Financial, Amanda Trimble – James RiverEquipment, and Sean DeVaney – First Line Funding Group

Winter Coat Drive Bright Red Bookshelf

Group Community Service Project “Paint the Town Red” is a project that focuses on paintingfire hydrants throughout the city of Madison. This project will not only bring our communitytogether, but also make a visual impact on our neighborhoods and community. On Saturday,April 22nd volunteers will meet at Trojan Field parking lot at 9:00 a.m. Here supplies will behanded out and individuals will be assigned their hydrants to complete. Each group will consistof two or three individuals. The hydrants will need to be cleaned and then painted. All supplieswill be provided and each hydrant is estimated to take one hour. If the weather is an issue onApril 22nd the rescheduled date will be Saturday, April 29th. (The date was chosen to coincidewith when the city flushes the hydrants. This usually takes place each year at the end of April.)

Paint the Town Red

“Paint the Town Red” Chamber Leadership Madison members are: Eric Heppler – LakeCounty International, Jeremi Matthies – Manitou Group, Jill Strom – James RiverEquipment, Alesha Richardson – Falcon Plastics, Laura Reed – Dakota StateUniveristy, and Katie Hahn – Heartland Consumers Power District

Heat the Streets – 5k Run/WalkCommunity Service Group Project “Heat the Streets 5k Run/Walk” planned a 5k fun run on

behalf of The United Way in Madison to benefit ICAP. Upon planning this event the groupdiscovered most of the funds for low income families run out in January and February eachyear. The group knows South Dakota winters can last into March and even April some yearsleading them to donate the proceeds to ICAP to help pay heating costs for low income familiesin the greater Madison area. The hope this group has is for The United Way and/or ICAP totake the 5K fun run strategies that the group develops and apply them to make this a yearlyevent. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, April 29th at 10 a.m. Registration will be$25. Contact any one of the group members to register.

“Heat the Streets 5k Run/Walk” Chamber Leadership Madison members: RyanMcCullough – Madison Care and Rehabilitation Center, LLC, Becky Glanzer – BethelLutheran Home, Nick Podhradsky – SBS CyberSecurity, LLC, Shayla Ebsen – East RiverElectric Power Cooperative, Kara Barry – First Line Funding Group, Megan Rummel –East River Electric Power Cooperative

9March/April 2017

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Annual Bethel FoundationDinner is April 20th

Submitted by Rosie Jamison- BethelFoundation

The Bethel Foundation Board ofDirectors invite the greater Madison area tothe 21st Annual Bethel Foundation Dinnerand Auction being held on Thursday, April20, 2017.

The event includes social hour, silentdessert auction, dinner, program and live

auction. Any one or groups interested in enjoying one another are welcome to comein support of Bethel Lutheran Home and Community. The event begins at 5:30 p.m.at the Dakota Prairie Playhouse in Madison.

Tickets for the 21st Annual Bethel Foundation Dinner and Auction are: $30 perperson and $240 for a table of eight. Reserve your table/ticket before the venue is fullby contacting Bethel Foundation (605) 256-4539 or rosie@bethelcommunity.com

10 March/April 2017

CelebrateNATIONAL AG WEEK

March 19-25Agriculture is South Dakota’s #1

industry, creating a $25.6 billion economicimpact annually in South Dakota andemploying over 122,000 South Dakotans.South Dakota always has been and willcontinue to be an agricultural state. Ourproducers are progressive, and are usingadvancements in technology to producehigher yields than ever before.

South Dakota livestock producers takegreat pride in caring for their animals andtheir operations. They take responsibilityfor delivering safe and nutritious beef,pork, lamb, poultry and dairy products toconsumers. As our global populationclimbs to 9 billion people in the next 40years, South Dakota farmers and ranchersare ready to supply the food the worldneeds.

Do you know the following facts aboutour South Dakota Family Farms andRanches?

-98% of farms and ranches in SouthDakota are family owned and operated.

-2500 farms have been in the samefamily for over 100 years.

-Agriculture accounts for 20% of the jobsin South Dakota.

-Pork Production brings over$500,000,000 to South Dakota annually.

-South Dakota’s grain production ranksnear the top in several crops in 2015including: Sunflowers #1, Honey #2, Oats#2, Alfalfa Hay #3, Corn #6, Wheat #6, andSoybeans #7.

In the coming weeks, the GreaterMadison Area Chamber of CommerceAgricultural Committee will be presentingAg in the Classroom to many of the areaschools. To show our appreciation to ourfarmers and ranchers we strive to promoteAgriculture in our community and in ourschools. Please join us and say thanks to allour farmers and ranchers that do businessin our community.

ROB THURINGER – CHAIR, AGCOMMITTEE

Greater Madison Area Chamber ofCommerce

The Greater Madison Area Chamber ofCommerce is taking applications nowthrough April 21, 2017 for their annualscholarship of $500. Those eligible include:employees or family of Chamber Membersand are currently attending Dakota StateUniversity or will be attending in the fallof 2017.

For an application please visit theChamber website at http://chamberofmadisonsd.smartcms.site or stop by theChamber office.

The selection process will be completedby the Dakota State University FoundationScholarship Committee. Please contact theChamber office at 256-2454 with questions.

Chamber Endowed Scholarship — Applications Now Available

11March/April 2017

East River welcomes the public to attendthe 53rd annual Mountain Oyster Feed atNicky’s in Madison on Thursday, March 23with serving beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Proceeds from the event will once againbenefit LifeScape, formerly Children’s CareHospital and School and SD Achieve, whosemission it is to empower children and adultswith disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. Withmore than $200,000 contributed to LifeScapeover the years, East River’s Annual MountainOyster Feed has helped provide for the verybest in medical care, therapy, education andother services for the children at LifeScape.

The event’s menu will include mountainoysters, pork sandwiches, baked beans,coleslaw and dessert. More than 100 doorprizes will be given away, with drawingsevery half hour. The event will also include araffle and silent auction.

Tickets will be sold at the door:1 meal + 5 door prize entries - $101 meal + 20 door prize entries - $20Kids ages 6-11 (meal only) - $5Kids 5 and under - Free

Visit eastriver.coop/events for moreinformation.

Attend the

East River Mountain Oyster Feed

As of January 1, 2017, Golden LivingCenter is under new ownership of SkylineHealthcare. The local facility located on thenortheast side of Madison was renamedMadison Care and Rehabilitation Center,LLC. Skyline Healthcare, headquartered inWood Ridge, N.J., has operated facilities inNew Jersey and Pennsylvania for more than20 years. Skyline also recently acquired otherlong-term care facilities in Nebraska, Kansas,Florida, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas andMassachusetts. Skyline now operates 114facilities in 11 states. The Daily Leaderreported “Kenneth Nichols, chief developmentofficer of Skyline, said that the plan of actionin the South Dakota facilities will have threephases: stabilize staffing, look at clinicalprograms that work in each uniquecommunity, and consider renovation ofphysical facilities.”

Several age groups participated in eitherATV or motorcycle classes during the OutlawRaces held on the weekends in January andFebruary. These classes were then brokendown to address different modifications. Thiswas a wonderful opportunity for some familytime during the winter months on the east endof Lake Brant. Concessions and treats wereprovided by Chamber member The ShipwreckBar and Grill.

2017 OutlawIce Races

Congratulations on 38 Years of

Distinguished Service Jim Iverson!

On behalf of the GMACC members, Boardof Directors, and staff, we congratulate Mr.Iverson on his retirement as administrator ofBethel Lutheran Home. The Chamber hasappreciated the support from Jim of Chambermembership, encouragement of employeeparticipation, and promotion of activities.

Jim served on the Board of Directors in the1990’s and was President in 1991. He wasinstrumental in beginning the ChamberLeadership Madison Program now which is inits 15th year.

Best Wishes in your retirement!

Golden Living Centeris now

SUPPORT YOURCHAMBER NEWSLETTER!

ADVERTISE YOUR PRODUCT & REACH 7,600 HOUSEHOLDS.

Call Melissa, Travis or Chase at 256-4555 or E-mail at ads@madisondailyleader.com

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12 March/April 2017

On February 27th, the GMACC Recreation and Tournament Committee hosted their Second Annual Bowling forBusiness Event. The event was full again this year with 12 teams participating! The first game was played with thecompany teams each group signed up with and the second was random mixed teams of participants for additionalnetworking opportunities. Trophies were awarded for the highest and lowest scores and more prizes were giventhroughout the event of friendly competition. $260 in 50/50 raffle tickets were sold to go towards the ChamberEndowed Scholarship fund. Todd Olson won the drawing and donated his winnings to the Youth Bowling ScholarshipFund.

Thank you to Cherry Lanes for hosting the event, to Nicky’s Restaurant for tasty appetizers and the GMACCRecreation and Tournament Committee members for continuing this wonderful event!

BOWLING FOR BUSINESS

Produced by: Written & Edited by:

High Men’s game and first Turkey won byAidan Tisdall (DSU Financial Aid team)with a score of 229.

High Women’s game won by VerlenneSheeks (Madison Daily Leader Team) witha score of 214.

Lowest Score Team: PPD-USA, Inc. with a score of 399receiving Traveling Trophy. Pictured: Tyron Davis, JessicaRumbolz, Susan Wise, Joseph McCreery, and Dillon Norgaard.

1st Place Team: DSU Financial Aid with a Score of 890receiving a Traveling Trophy and Chamber Bucks. Pictured:Marissa Kearin, Lacee Fedeler, Aidan Tisdall, Cody Kuusela,and Melinda Fedeler.

Todd Olson donating his half of the50/50 raffle to the Youth BowlingScholarship Fund, accepted by MitchSchneider of Cherry Lanes.

Winning team of the 2nd game with mixed business members forincreased networking with a score of 867. Mike Miller – B&GTransportation, Susan Wise – PPD-USA, Inc., Verlenne Sheeks –Madison Daily Leader, Aidan Tisdall – DSU Financial Aid, andLori Rhodes – East River Federal Credit Union.