A newsletter of the Greater Madison Area Chamber of Commerce
January/February 2016
2015 Community Christmas Tree and Holiday Kickoff
As a part of the 85th Anniversary of your Chamber, the
Community Promotions Committee and Chamber
coordinated a new event with support of members and
community volunteers to kickoff the 2015 Holiday Season.
In September the Chamber Community Promotions
Committee began planning for a community holiday
kickoff including a community tree lighting on the Friday
after Thanksgiving, November 27th. Since that time the
Chamber requested assistance from many to make it
become a reality. We
thank the following
partners for sharing
their time, talent and
treasure
for
the
Madison Community
Christmas tree in
2015: The Joe Thompson Family, City of Madison –
Mayor Lindsay, Fred Snoderly, public works – streets,
parks, electric and police, DeLon Mork of Dairy Queen,
East River Electric Power Cooperative and Madison
Lawn Care – all planned and contributed to the project
promoted by the Chamber.
On November 19th a 40 foot spruce donated by the Joe
Thompson Family was removed by East River Electric
Power Cooperative, held by the cradle and sling designed
and built by the City of Madison, moved and set up by
East River on the Dairy Queen parking lot green space.
It was set into a 6-foot hole with stand designed that was
later packed with sand by the City of Madison and
decorated with 1,500 lights strung by Madison Lawn
Care.
See Community Christmas on page 12
(Left) East River
Electric
moving
the freshly cut 40
foot spruce from
just north of Thue
Softball Diamonds
on November 19th.
(Above Right) City of Madison - (L-R) Steve
Christensen, Jim Materese, Chad Patch, Gary
Gonyo, Fred Snoderly and Roger Robertson, all
instrumental in the Community Tree Project just
after they set it into the stand near Egan and NE
2nd Street.
L-R: Angie Thompson, Darlene Thompson, Jim Thompson, Joe Thompson, Judy Thompson, Joe
Thompson Jr., Mayor Roy Lindsay, DeLon Mork - Dairy Queen, Denny Fouberg - East River Electric
Power Coop, Rosie Jamison Madison Area Chamber of Commerce, and Billy Cross Madison Lawn
Care all partnering in the Community Christmas Tree Project
Call us at 256-2454 | www.chamberofmadisonsd.com
2
January/February 2016
BOARD OFFICERS
Liz Avery
PRESIDENT
Ph: 256-4536
BoD 2014 - 2016
East River Electric Power Cooperative
Kevin Jaspers
VICE-PRESIDENT
Ph: (800) 658-3953
BoD 2015 - 2016
Farm Credit Services of America
Sara Wardner
SECRETARY/ TRESURER
Ph: 256 – 6655
BoD 2015 - 2017
First Madison Insurance
BOARD MEMBERS
Tom Bloom
Ph: 256 – 3521
BoD 2015 - 2017
Lake County International
Donna Fawbush
Ph: 256-5666
BoD 2010 - 2016
Dakota Prairie Playhouse/DSU
Randy Giedt
Ph: 256-3533
BoD 2016 - 2018
PPD UHMW Industries
Vicki Kommes
Ph: 256-6628
BoD 2016 - 2018
ECCO, Inc.
Sharon Patch
Ph: 427-0707
BoD 2015 - 2016
Unique Boutique Consignments, LLC
Adam Shaw
Ph: 256 – 7706
BoD 2016 – 2018
Madison Central School District
Dennis Slaughter
Ph: 256 – 2851
BoD 2014 – 2016
Krug Products, Inc.
EX-OFFICIO
Robert Thill
Madison City Commissioner
Kelli Wollmann
Lake County Commissioner
Dr. José-Marie Griffiths
DSU President
Vince Schaefer
Madison Central School
Superintendent
Aaron Walter
Community Center Director
From the Board. . .
Remember the anticipation you felt when
you graduated from school? If you were like
me, you were filled with excitement, relief,
and apprehension. I wondered what I will do
for a career. Will I be successful? What does
the future hold for me? I knew there would be
challenges, but my achievements would be
bound only by my courage.
The New Year can have the same effect on
me. I feel excited for new beginnings, relief for
past successes, and apprehension about
future challenges.
The Chamber completed another eventful
and successful year, in fact, our 85th year.
Along with our 85th anniversary, we also
celebrated the longevity of two thriving
members. Rosebud Manufacturing and
ECCO have built their businesses and served
our local community since 1965 and 1975
respectively. It takes courage and a lot of
hard work to reach such impressive
milestones. We also welcomed several new
businesses to our community and dedicated a
brand new building for our hospital. These
members faced unique challenges and were
pushed forward by their tenacity.
At the end of 2015, we said goodbye to
three outgoing board members, Brenda
Thompson, Cotton Koch and Cindy Callies.
They all have served your Chamber Board
well and will be greatly missed. 2016 provides
the opportunity for new beginnings by
welcoming three new board members, Vicki
Kommes, Adam Shaw, and Randy Giedt. We
appreciate their interest and enthusiasm in
serving our members and our community,
and we look forward to working with them.
Having a dedicated board is essential for a
successful Chamber, but the real strength of
our Chamber lies in our members. Our
members provide a pool of resources which
generate new ideas and new energy to help
stimulate economic vitality. We are faced with
the continuous challenge of actively engaging
our members in the community and to help
promote business growth in a rapidly changing
environment. Your Chamber staff and your
board take that challenge very seriously.
The New Year brings much excitement
and anticipation for continued success and
innovative ways to make our community the
best place to live, work, and raise a family. I
like to think 2016 is also the beginning of the
next 85 years for our Chamber. The longevity
of the Chamber is a testament to the previous
community leaders who
had a vision and invested
in our community. Their
legacy is ours to continue.
By Julie Gross
2015 is behind us, and as I reflect on the
past year the words partnership and
collaboration come to mind. Without them,
the LAIC would cease to exist; and with them,
the LAIC is a strong, active, forward thinking
organization.
We thrive on partnerships and collaboration.
We partner with the city and county, our
investors, the Chamber, the state and countless
other individuals and organizations both in and
out of South Dakota. Our achievements occur
because of our incredible partners.
In 2015 we were proud to construct a spec
building in the Lakeview Industrial Park
which was accomplished with our partners.
The decision to offer English as a Second
language (ESL) classes occurred when we
collaborated with four entities and determined
there was a need. Over 175 Madison high
school students had the opportunity to visit
manufacturing plants in Madison due to
collaboration between the LAIC, high school,
industries and the Chamber.
We are unbelievably grateful for our
partners – they give us unwavering support
and are willing to step up when asked. Their
dedication and commitment ensures Madison
continues to grow and thrive.
In November we were asked to decorate a
tree at the Smith-Zimmermann museum for
their holiday of trees. All trees have a theme
and as I pondered a theme I asked an
individual in our community their perspective
of the LAIC. They replied we were ‘key’ to the
community. Thus, a theme transpired. “Lake
Area Improvement Corporation - the key to
our community’s success!”
The theme fits perfectly and it inspires
me. I am optimistic 2016 will be another year
full of exciting new ventures. If you’re not a
partner of the LAIC we’d love to have you join
us. We wish you a successful and prosperous
2016!
SFC Darin Rus
Lake Area Improvement Corp (LAIC)
Director
STAFF
Rosie Jamison
Executive Director
Jennifer DeKam
Office Manager
DeAnna Robinson
Special Projects (PT)
GMACC Board of Directors
East River Electric Power Co-op
LAIC Perspective
211th En. Co. National Guard
Julie Gross
LIZ AVERY, PRESIDENT
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Bowling
for Business
CHAMBER TOURNAMENT
•Up to 12 Teams at Cherry Lanes Bowling
•Up to 5 members per team
•Cost is $100 per team
•Starting at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
More Information Soon
Get a Team and Have Fun with Other Chamber Members!
Register through the Chamber 256-2454
Coordinated by the Chamber Rec and Tourney Committee
Note from the
Director
ROSIE JAMISON,
Executive Director
After the close of 2015 and your Chamber
85th Anniversary, I encourage you to take
stock
of
community
and
business
accomplishments as we strive to enhance our
community, education environment and
business climate for future opportunities.
Businesses, organizations, government
officials and residents collectively have a
positive impact upon each of us. Pride in your
community is generated by cooperative
success and generates more investment of
resources resulting in continued progress.
Each resident, student and visitor is an
ambassador of our community and economic
development. Celebrate the year and be
prideful of your community. Thank you for
promoting the greater Madison area to live,
work and through member patronage.
2015 CHAMBER YEAR AT A GLANCE
•22 new organizations, owners and
businesses chose to invest in the Chamber
through membership.
•Your Chamber membership remains strong
in 2015 with 314 GMACC members.
•Commemorated Chamber 85th anniversary
with unique logo and thirty-six informative
messages on: Madison History, Chamber
History, Agriculture, Attractions, Business,
Education, Events, Recreation and Service.
This increased general knowledge and
interest throughout the year. The collection
of 85th “Did You Know” messages are found
on www.chamberofmadisonsd.com.
•Coordinated one of the largest Madison/DSU
Hosts the Legislature with over 235 Madison
constituents, SD Legislators and dignitaries
attending in January.
•Celebrated 25 member recognitions of
business milestones.
and First Lady
•Hosted Governor Daugaard
Linda on August 19th for Madison – Capital
for the Day in partnership with the City of
Madison and Lake Area Improvement
Corporation.
•Dedicated the new $36.8 million Madisonth
Regional Health System as our 5
hospital/health care facility of the
community at 323 10th Street on September
26th and moved all operations to that
location on October 11, 2015.
•Social Media – increased electronic
presence on regional tourism websites and
increased Facebook likes to 770 with a
record reached of over 16,100 in the 2nd
week in October.
•Successfully applied and received two
regional tourism grants totaling $4,800 to
promote the community and our attractions
including presence on a seasonal billboard.
•Depot Memorial Brick Wall restoration of
the Madison Depot grounds by the City of
Madison.
•Community Christmas tree and Holiday
Kickoff coordination of partners for this
initial event to generate holiday spirit,
promote community pride and local
investment.
•As of September 2015, Madison businesses
generated $234,441 more in BBB Tax
Revenue than the same date in 2014.
See Note on page 3
3
January/February 2016
Note from the Director
continued from page 2
Chamber Bucks purchased continue to
encourage more and more to “buy locally”
providing a positive impact to our area
economy and Chamber member businesses.
The Chamber Board of Directors provided
progressive leadership throughout 2015. I
want to extend appreciation to Liz Avery, for
her leadership in 2015 President and for her
commitment to continue as the President in
2016. In addition, thank you to three outgoing
Board of Directors, all served as officers during
their term(s) of service. Brenda Thompson of
Exit Realty, who served since 2011 and as Vice
President in 2012 and as President in 2013.
Cotton Koch of Madison Central School
District from 2013-2015 and as Vice President
in 2014. Finally, Cindy Callies of First
Madison Insurance since 2013 and also
provided leadership as Secretary/Treasurer in
2015. Collectively their volunteer leadership
and committee involvement will be missed.
You can meet the three new board members,
officers and all 2016 GMACC Board of
Directors in this edition.
Our continued progress and collective
success is impacted by continued membership
renewal and positive consideration of further
involvement. We look forward to continued
partnerships, relationship development and
increased promotion of our community as we
“Discover the Unexpected” together in 2016!
2015 Business Holiday Decorating Contest
Thank you to the Chamber businesses participating in the 85th Anniversary Holiday Kickoff Business Holiday Decorating Contest. Over
40 members participated and were judged early evening on November 27th with the results shared during the Community Christmas
tree lighting. Farmers Ag Center, displayed at 328 S. Highland Ave, was chosen as the overall winner and received $100 in Chamber
Bucks to the business employees.
Pictured above is the winning display and representatives (left) of Farmers
Ag Center involved with the winning display. From L – R Todd Balogh,
Corey Gerry, Billie Flatten, and Andy Olson.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Five additional businesses were recognized by category. They were presented
with a Chamber Honorable Mention Certificate of Recognition to display.
r
e
b
m
e
25M nitions
Recog in 2015
held
Congratulations
from GMACC to:
ECCO, Inc. Foundation – Residential
Home
Encore Family Store
The Community Center – Family Room
Counseling Associates
F&M Coop Oil – 90 years/New Facility
The Pub House
The Lakes Bar & Grill
The Lakes Golf Course
The Lakes Lodge & Boutique
The Lakes RV Resort
Josh and Pam’s Photography
Vast Broadband
Union Park Square
Cars for Les
Sodak’s Marina – 10 years
Rosebud Cabinetry & Lodging Furniture
– 50 years
ECCO, Inc. – 40 years
Karl’s TV & Appliance
Sparkle & Sass Boutique
Madison Regional Health System
Vast Broadband
High Plains Apache
Evergreen Townhomes – Mills Property
Management
A1 Travel SD Powered by Totally Trips
Madison Family Dental
COMMUNITY SPIRIT
DSU - Trojan Pride Committee (located at Northwestern Energy) (Back L-R)
Shannon Vostad, Jona Schmidt, Mandy Parpart, Jared Indahl, Erica
Clements, (Front L-R) Barb Stacey-Olajide, Dana Hoff, Kim Wermers, Donna
Fawbush, Kati Larsen and Travis Block
HOLIDAY
SPIRIT
Mochavino
(L-R) Leah
Keating, Nancy
Kadous, Amy
Graff, Peggy
Schroeder,
Alissa McAloon,
and not
pictured Alex
Schneider
WELCOMING TO
VISITORS
Sparkle and Sass (L-R)
Owner Somer, daughters
Aubrielle, Isabelle,
Gabrielle Pickard and
employee Taylor Otteson
ORIGINALITY
Dairy Queen (L-R) Lana Zillgitt, DeLon
Mork, Amber Corral and Tarynn Bickett
SECRET SAUCE
Johnson Jewelry - Karen Rzepecki (not
pictured Greg Johnson)
4
January/February 2016
Chamber 85th Anniversary – Did You Know…
AG
•South Dakota’s #1 industry is agriculture,
employing over 122,000 in South Dakota
through production agriculture and its
value added industries representing an
economic impact each year of $25.6 billion.
Your Chamber is proud to be serving area
Ag producers and support industries
through modern member facilities, trusted
businesses and the newest of products that
have positively impacted our local economy
for the past 85 years and our combined
progress in the future.
•In South Dakota, more than 30 percent of
all jobs are linked to agriculture and that
same percentage holds true for Lake
County and Madison and is the #1 industry
in our state, employing 115,000. We
appreciate area Ag producer patronage of
all our member business and services and
the membership of our Ag related
businesses.
•South Dakota farmers are conservationists
with a deep sense of responsibility for the
land. The Greater Madison Area Chamber
of Commerce is also committed to being a
good steward of the community’s assets
with over 300 members collectively
promoting the community through quality
goods and services, area economic growth
and opportunities to improve our quality of
live.
•In the late 1990s, corn was selling for $1.29
a bushel. In response to low prices, area
farmers started an ethanol plant near
Wentworth. Today, Dakota Ethanol
employs 38 people and produces 50 million
gallons of ethanol 140,000 tons of distillers
grain every year.
ATTRACTIONS
•Camp Lakodia was dedicated in 1941 as a
4-H Camp? Now, the camp is owned by
Fostering Hope, a non-profit that sponsors
camps for foster children. The camp is also
open to the public to rent for special events,
weddings, family reunions, business
gatherings, lodging and camping or just to
enjoy the lake and grounds.
•In 1876, Honorable Herman N. Luce built a
log cabin and settled his family near the
body of water that would later carry his
name? His cabin still stands, at Lake
Herman State Park, where guests enjoy
year-round sports, hiking, camping,
photography and more. Plan a visit soon
and experience activities of that era on
Saturday, June 13th during Herman Luce
Pioneer Day from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.
•The Prairie Historical Society was founded
in 1966. That same year, the Prairie
Village Carousel was purchased from the
Art B. Thomas Carnival Shows. The
carousel was built in the early 1900s and
is one of only a few carousels from that
time period still in regular operation.
BUSINESS
•All radio stations west of the Mississippi
start with the letter “K”. K-M-A-D for
Madison was the first choice for KJAM
Radio but was rejected by the FCC. K-J-AM was then selected and approved and
KJAM-AM started broadcasting December
3, 1959 with the studio above Collignon's
Hardware Store. In December 1968,
KJAM-FM went on the air and was the
third commercial FM station in South
Dakota. Then in October 1969, KJAM
Radio studios were moved to their present
location at 101 South. Egan Avenue.
•Mary Clough is believed to be Madison’s
first business woman? In the 1880s, she
ran a successful millenary business and
taught dressmaking in her shop. She also
operated her husband’s hospital for him.
•A surprising number of auto dealerships
once sold new cars along South Egan on
what was called Motor Row. Today,
Prostrollo All American Auto is the only
one remaining, selling the “big three”
automobile brands in Madison and beyond
now located on South Washington Avenue.
•Sixty-four percent of Madison businesses
are family-owned. Those businesses have a
deep
and
often
generations-long
commitment to Madison area citizens.
These and all Chamber member businesses
invite you to shop and access them for your
goods and services needs throughout the
year and invest back into our community .
. . we all benefit when you do.
•Present-day First Bank and Trust of
Madison was, indeed, the first bank in
Madison. First Bank of Madison was
established in 1883 by local stockholders,
sold to the Mackay Brothers, and then back
to stockholders in 1939. Today, it’s owned
by Fishback Financial.
•Madison is the smallest South Dakota city
with a daily newspaper? In the 1920s,
Madison had the Madison Outlook, the
Madison Daily Sentinel and the Madison
Daily Leader. In the Great Depression, the
Outlook folded, and the Sentinel and
Leader merged in 1938 and was run by the
Stahl family through 1946. Since 1947, the
Hunter family has operated the Madison
Daily Leader providing local, regional and
international news.
CHAMBER HISTORY
Chamber
is
a
not-for-profit
•The
membership organization that promotes
Chamber members and the community,
provides valued services to both, helps to
build productive relationships and
manages the organization resources to
benefit our future growth? The Chamber is
governed by a ten member Board of
Directors with initiatives implemented by
volunteers of Chamber Ag, Community
Promotions,
Diplomat,
Education,
Governmental
Affairs,
Industry,
Leadership Madison, and Rec and Tourney
committees, with activities coordinated by
the Chamber staff to enhance our
community and business environment.
•The Chamber has 315 members
representing business, industry, schools,
service
organizations,
churches,
individuals, financial services, attractions,
healthcare, professional and personal
services all investing in the common
Mission “to promote our members, the
Greater Madison Area community, and
economic development, resulting in a
better quality of life.” This Chamber has
grown over the past 85 years to our current
membership due to their investment of
individual involvement, committee active
participation,
Board
of
Directors
leadership and Chamber staff coordination
of initiatives. Combined these benefit us all
and help our community prosper and
continue to grow.
•The Chamber of Commerce plays an
important role in Madison and our trade
area in promoting business activity,
representing Chamber members and our
community enhancing the overall economic
environment, image and opportunities
within our area.Your Chamber represents
314 members in: business, industry,
attractions, organizations, schools, service
groups and individuals with the mission “to
promote our members, the community, and
economic development, resulting in a
better quality of life.”
•The last passenger train left the Madison
Train Depot in 1953. In 1989, the nearly
intact Depot was placed on the National
Register of Historic Places and restored to
its current use, as home for the Madison
Area Chamber and the Lake Area
Improvement Corporation since 1990.
•The Madison Area Chamber of Commerce
was founded in 1930, when Mayor C.P.
Rognes asked community business, civic
and church leaders to come together and
help him identify ways to improve local
businesses and to promote progress in
Madison, as the new Highway 34 was
being constructed through town.
EDUCATION
•DSU added its first graduate program, a
Master of Science degree in information
systems, in 1998. Since then, the
university has added six additional
master’s degree programs and two doctoral
programs: Doctor of Science in Information
Systems and Doctor of Science in Cyber
Security.
•The Greater Madison Area Chamber of
Commerce was founded in 1930, when
Dakota State University was known as
Eastern State Teachers College. Over the
years, the two organizations have worked
together to build a solid foundation for the
community and strong regional presence
for continued progress.
•May 9th marks the 131st Spring
Commencement for DSU. Congratulations
graduates!
EVENTS
•Nationally, Dairy Queen is celebrating its
75th Anniversary and since 1984,
fundraising for Children’s Miracle Network
Hospitals. For nine years, the Madison DQ
has led the way in blizzard sales
throughout the nation with 47,638
blizzards in 2014. Be a part of the 2015
event on Thursday, July 30. The goal: Sell
even more for the kids!
•The third annual Discovery Day is
scheduled for July 25, 2015. In 1963,
during Crazy Daze, the grand prize giveaway was a ’54 DeSoto filled with groceries.
HISTORY
•The home at 518 North Egan built by R. C.
McCallister is one of 27 homes on the
National Register of Historic Places. The
Madison banker was instrumental in
getting appropriation from the territorial
legislature to build the first college
structure in Madison, now Dakota State
University. Three of those college buildings
were also on the registry, Beadle Hall,
Kennedy Hall, and East Hall.
•Madison was platted in 1880 by four town
fathers, who laid out the new town with
streets running east to west and avenues
running north to south. They named three
avenues for themselves: Van Eps, Harth
and Lee.
•Lake Madison hosted a thriving
Chautauqua program from 1890 to 1932.
In 1964, the Madison Area Arts Council
was organized, making it the oldest arts
council in the state. The City also boasts an
art gallery and summer programming at
the Prairie Village Opera House.
INDUSTRY
•Wenk Brothers Produce was started in
1919 and shipped live poultry in train car
to industries all over the U.S. from
Madison? In the 1950s, they shifted their
emphasis to frozen egg products and readyto-cook poultry before closing in 2002.
•Twenty-seven homes and three university
buildings — Beadle Hall, Kennedy Hall,
and East Hall — located on North Egan
Avenue are all on the National Register of
Historic Places. In addition to these, the
Madison Depot was placed on the National
Register of Historic Places in 1989 and is
home to the Madison Area Chamber, Depot
Community Room, Madison Railroad
Museum and the Lake Area Improvement
Corporation since 1990.
•The John Morrell meat packing plant in
Madison closed in 1969, laying off 125
employees. In response, the Madison
Development Corporation, now known as
the Lake Area Improvement Corporation,
was formed to draw new business and
industry to the Madison area.
•That the Manufacturing Industry has been
impacting Madison over several decades
and generates the 2nd largest payroll in the
state of South Dakota? September 28thOctober 2nd is SD manufacturing week to
help increase our awareness about this
integral
part
of
our
economy.
Manufacturers in SD employ more than
40,000 individuals at 1,118 businesses. In
the Madison area, we have 28
manufacturing businesses employing over
1000 people, generated over $348,400 in
municipal tax revenue for 2014 and
Madison area manufacturers generated
just over $20 million in 2014 taxable sales.
We appreciate all manufacturers in the
Madison area and are proud of their
investment in our community and the
opportunities they provide for our
continued growth.
• This fall, the Madison Community Hospital
will move to its third new building? The
new facility will be named Madison
Regional Health System and is located at
323 SW 10th Street. Plan to see it on
Saturday, September 26th during the
dedication at 11 a.m. followed by Chamber
Ribbon Cutting and tours from 12-6 p.m.
Madison Regional Health System will open
later this fall continuing the quality health
care tradition of the Madison Community
Hospital for generations to come.
RECREATION
•Since 1946, the Madison Golf and Country
Club has been the place “where Madison
comes to play.” The beautiful 18-hole
course and remodeled clubhouse hosts
state-wide tournaments and will happily
host your event, also.
•Madison has ten city parks, two baseball
complexes, the Maloney Nature Area, and
a 4.2-mile paved recreation trail leading to
Lake Madison. There’s plenty of places to
play in Madison.
See Did You Know... on page 5
January/February 2016
40th Annual Business Day
The 40th Annual Business Day at the
Legislature and South Dakota Chamber
Annual Meeting is on Thursday, February
18, 2016, at the Pierre Ramkota. Business
Day provides an opportunity for SD
Chamber members and for community and
business leaders from across the state to
meet in Pierre and have a voice in the
legislative process. Registration begins at 11
a.m. with a luncheon at Noon followed by a
Legislative Update and annual Business
Caucus. Later a visit to the Legislative
Chambers at the Capitol is encouraged and
speaker at 3:30 p.m. at the Capitol. The
evening kicks off with the Economic
Developers Reception and Manufacturer’s
Showcase then closes with the Business Day
Banquet and Keynote Speaker.
All of South Dakota's legislators, the
Governor and his Cabinet members, as well
as Constitutional officers are invited to the
banquet as the guest of our board of directors,
local chambers of commerce and the South
Dakota Chamber. This is an excellent
opportunity to visit with officials about issues
of importance to your business and
community. Registration and cost for the
event
is
available
at
www.sdchamber.biz/businessday/.
5
2015 Trick or Treat
Thank you to event sponsors Larry Green, DDS and Randall Funeral Home,
and all business participants!
Did You Know... continued from page 4
•Lake County is home to over 7,000 acres of
lakes? That’s an amazing amount of
water—and it’s all accessible to you for any
kind of recreational activity. As a thriving
business community, Madison also
provides access to all the goods and
services you need to make your water
recreation truly memorable.
•Whether you come for a day or a lifetime,
Lake Madison has much to offer. There’s
boating, camping, dining, fishing and
golfing. Lodging, too, and beautiful homes
for full-time lake living. Lake Madison
really does have it all.
SERVICE
•Nearly 20 members of the Madison
Chamber are non-profit organizations, who
work together to provide services to the
greater Madison community. Learn more
on the Chamber Website about their
mission, opportunities and potential
involvement.
•Madison’s first fire department was
organized in 1884 and housed in a livery
barn on West Center Street? The fire
station built in 1930 still houses Madison’s
city offices and police department. The
current Madison Fire Department was
built in 1986 located at 200 SE 3rd with a
fire chief and 28 volunteers providing
service to the greater Madison area.
These pieces of Madison history are
brought to you by the Chamber serving you
since 1930. In Madison, you can always
discover the unexpected.
Chamber Bucks Popularity Continues
Members, residents, family and
organizations chose to use Chamber Bucks
with their flexibility as universal gift
certificates accepted by all Greater
Madison
Area
Chamber
member
businesses and organizations. It is a
perfect gift for most anyone and
guarantees merchandise and services will
be purchased locally. This means by using
them and purchasing Chamber Bucks you
are investing back into our greater
Madison area.
In 2015 over 4,100 individual Chamber
Bucks were bought, totalling $81,800 to be
spent throughout our community. Thank
you for investing in the greater Madison
area one gift at a time!
6
January/February 2016
2016 Greater Madison Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
GMACC Board Officers
PRESIDENT
VICE PRESIDENT
Liz Avery
Kevin Jaspers
Joined Board 2014
President 2015
East River Electric
Power Cooperative, Inc.
Manager of Human
Resources and
Administration
25 years at EREPC
Graduate of
DSU and USD
As the Board liaison for the Education
Committee Liz shared, “The Education Committee
promotes and supports the contribution education
makes within a community and enhances
educational parterships. A strong educational
system is essential to provide businesses with a
quality workforce, individuals with better incomes,
and communites with greater economic growth.
Education has always been my passion and the
advocacy role the committee provides is very
gratifying.”
A promotional activity during the 85th
Anniversary Year of the Chamber Avery feels
positively impacted many. “The donation of the
community Christmas tree and lighting
ceremony had a positive and perhaps unexpected
impact on our members and community.
Watching the many individuals and families
come together and seeing the excitement in the
children’s eyes reminded me how blessed we are
to live and work in a community where people
still say hello to strangers and people care for one
another. ‘Discover the Unexpected’ has a much
different meaning for me.”
Other involvements for Avery are serving as
a current board member and former president
of the Madison Central School Educational
Foundation, member of the Sioux Empire
Society for Human Resource Management,
adult leader in the Boy Scout Troop 5 and
former President of the MHS Booster Club.
Sara Wardner
Joined Board 2015
Farm Credit Services
of America
Amert Construction
Co., Inc.
Financial Officer for
36 years
Office Administration
for 7 months
Lake County
International
Previously at
Great Western Bank
for 9 years
Co-owner at LCI for
25 years of family
owned business that
started in 1962
DSU Alum
Vicki Kommes
Joined Board 2016
Joined Board 2016
PPD-USA, Inc.
ECCO, Inc.
Executive Director
and with ECCO,
Inc. for 33 years
Plant Manger for
3 ½ years
Previously with
Raven Electronic
Division. Retired US
Marine Corps
Why Giedt chose to participate in the
Chamber Board upon being asked, “To
participate in the Chamber Board to assist
in the ongoing development, growth, and
leadership programs already offered by the
Chamber. Madison’s future is bright, with
the opportunity to show surrounding
communities the value of living in a small
community. Serving on the board also
provides the opportunity to emphasize the
value of manufacturing in Madison and the
impact the jobs provide to the local
community.”
Giedt is also a member of the VFW and
Retired Marine Corps Officers Association.
Continuing
Board Members
Joined Board 2015
Kevin serves as the Board Liaison to the Ag
Committee. He states “My passion involves
being an advocate for Agriculture. The
economic activity of Agriculture is very crucial
to Madison and the surrounding area. It is the
number one economic engine in our
community. With the help of the Greater Area
Madison Chamber of Commerce members, the
Chamber Ag Committee provides appreciation
events for our area farmers/ranchers and
educational events for our agricultural youth.”
As a Chamber Board of Director, Jaspers
commented
on
Chamber
staff
and
member/community promotion, “I really feel the
personnel who work for the Greater Madison
Chamber of Commerce take the mission
statement to heart. They are genuinely striving
to promote the Greater Madison Area. Serving
on the Board made me realize the time and
effort it takes to continue to promote our
community. It is a competitive world and it is
extremely important to have a vibrant Chamber
to help promote the community. This benefits
the businesses and the people of the community.
In addition to the Chamber Board and Vice
Presidency, Jaspers is currently a member of
the St Thomas Knights of Columbus, CoChairman of Brookings Area Habitat for
Humanity Lake County Partnership Team, and
South Dakota Agricultural and Rural
Leadership.
Randy Giedt
New Board Members
SECRETARY/TREASURER
As a Board liaison for the Chamber
Community Promotions Committee and CoChair of Day with Santa Sara said “I really
enjoy the projects that take place because of
the committee. I feel the activities enhance
life in Madison and give our members and
the community good experiences and
opportunities. Some examples are: Discovery
Day, Day with Santa, Lake Appreciation and
Chamber Welcome to DSU students.”
An activity Sara believes had positive
impact upon the membership and
community was: “I have heard good
comments about the Community Tree
Lighting on the Friday after Thanksgiving.
It is wonderful to see so many entities pull
together to make a holiday event for our
community come to life. This was the first
year for the event and it was very successful.
We hope it will continue to be an activity
that everyone looks forward to and become
involved.”
Her involvements are: Past Leadership
Madison Committee Member and 2010
Graduate, Treasurer/Leader for Troop 5 Boy
Scouts, UMC Education Committee Co-chair
and children’s choir director.
Adam Shaw
Joined Board 2016
Madison Central
School District
High School
Principal
for 3 years
Previous
Superintendent in
Marion, SD
When asked why Kommes chose to be
a Board Members she states, “ECCO Inc.
staff and people we support have so much
to offer our community. This appointment
will give me the opportunity to contribute
to the common good. It will be a pleasure
for me to serve in this capacity.”
Kommes is involved in the following in
addition to serving on the GMACC Board:
East Dakota Transit Board Treasurer,
Chamber of Commerce Education
Committee and Community Support
Providers of South Dakota member.
Previously she was a member of Madison
Housing Commission Board and a
Leadership Madison Graduate.
When asked why Shaw decided to serve
as a Chamber Board member, “Being a
Chamber Board member is an opportunity to
work with the Madison business community
to further enhance all the wonderful things
we have in place. I look forward to being a
part of a dynamic group of individuals who
strive to provide opportunities for everyone
involved. It is my hope that being a Chamber
Board member will allow us to continue the
partnership between the Madison School
District and our business industry.”
Shaw is also involved in the community
as a Board of Director for the following:
Career
Learning
Center,
Junior
Achievement and Trinity Lutheran Church
Youth.
Tom Bloom
Joined Board 2015
As liaison of the Rec and Tourney
Committee Tom believes “The committee
creates activities open to local business
members
and
supports
major
recreation/sport events held in Madison that
promotes the community through Chamber
volunteers.”
The Chamber Board of Directors
involvement Tom finds rewarding that
promotes our community and businesses,
“As a member of the Ag Committee we are
able to educate and promote the impact of
agriculture in the surrounding area, raising
the awareness of South Dakota’s #1
industry.”
Bloom is a member of St John Lutheran
Church of Madison and has served as Vice
President and President of the congregation
and also a board member of Pro Pheasants.
Donna Fawbush
Joined Board 2010
Secretary/Treasurer
2012-2014
Vice President 2015
Dakota State
University/Dakota
Prairie Playhouse
Events Coordinator for
22 years
As Board Liaison for the Chamber
Leadership Program Donna said “The
Chamber Leadership program promotes
community networking, encourages personal
motivation to become actively involved in
community affairs, and an increased
understanding of civic responsibilities.”
The Chamber Board of Director
involvement Donna finds most rewarding
and important to promote. “Two Chamber
programs/events I have been involved in and
find rewarding to promote is our Leadership
program and Madison Hosts the Legislature.
Both programs inspire leadership and
enhance the health of our community.”
In addition to the GMACC Board
Fawbush serves on various committees at
Dakota
State
University
including
Homecoming and the Trojan Pride
Committee, Board Member of the Specialty
Store, USA Group, Member of the PEO
Organization, and Member of the City of
Madison Planning Commission.
See GMACC Board. on page 7
7
January/February 2016
GMACC Board continued from page 6
Continuing Board Members
Sharon Patch
Dennis Slaughter
Joined Board 2015
Joined Board 2014
Unique Boutique
Owner/Operator for
4 years
Krug Products Inc.
Previous 16 years at
Prostrollo All
American Auto Mall
Board Liaison for the Community
Promotions Committee, Sharon comments, “I
have enjoy my time on the Chamber Board of
Directors and as one of the two Board
Liaisons to Community Promotions. Your
Chamber continues to prosper and provide
many things for our local business and
community. The Madison area is a strong
place in which we are privileged to live and
work. The Chamber has achived many
successes and we need to look into the future
to find ways to support and strengthen our
community.
Activities Sharon commented have
positively impacted the memebership and
community throughout the 85th Anniversary
were: “It has been a great year here in
Madison. The Community tree lighting was a
wonderful way to kick-off the holiday season
and bring our community together. Also, the
Day with Santa was a very rewarding
experience to see all the happy faces on the
children and their parents.”
In addition to the GMACC Board, Patch is
an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church
and while her family was growing up they
participated in several activities.
Manager for 22 years
As liaison of the
Leadership Madison
Committee,
Dennis
said, “This committee
provides
excellent
information on State and
Local Government along
with other opportunities for an individual to
become involved with their community. Through
particaption in this class, members will gain the
knowledge and confidence needed to become a very
active participant in community activities.”
The Chamber Board of Director
involvement Dennis finds most rewarding. “I
would strongly encourage those interested in
the community to become involved with your
Chamber as a volunteer or even becoming a
Chamber Board member. It is really amazing
to see the amount of time and work that goes
into every event the Chamber holds
throughout the year. This past year the
Chamber Board made the decision to host and
work the Gathering meal held at the United
Methodist Church. This is something I find to
be very rewarding and another way for the
Chamber to be more visible in Madison.”
Additional involvements and areas
Slaughter has served are: Family Readiness
Group for the Madison 211th National Guard
Unit, Madison Downtown and Beyond
committee member, Past Madison Central
School Board member, member of the State
Executive Council of the NFIB and previously
on the new Swimming Pool committee and
Community Center committee.
2015 Outgoing Board Members
Thank you to outgoing GMACC Board of Directors, for their leadership and service.
Cindy Callies
Cotton Koch
Brenda Thompson
2013-2015
Secretary/Treasurer 2015
2013-2015
Vice President 2014
2011-2015
President 2013
First Madison Insurance
Madison Central School
Exit Realty
Mission Statement - “To promote our members, the community, and economic
development, resulting in a better quality of life.”
Chamber Member
a nd
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A cco mp
w s!
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MADISON HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM
2015 STATE A CHAMPIONSHIP IN NOVEMBER
ON THE
Congratulations to Madison High School Bulldogs on a perfect 2015 record, your
first State Football Championship and positive representation of your school and
community. Thank you to our players, cheerleaders, coaches and fans for a great
season. Your Chamber members congratulate you all!
CONGRATULATIONS TO CHRIS STUDER AND BEST WISHES TO
SCOTT PARSLEY OF EAST RIVER ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Studer was promoted from Communications and Marketing Manager to the Chief
Member and Public Relations Officer (CMPRO) for the cooperative. He will
replace Scott Parsley, who will retire early in 2016 after working at the
cooperative for 30 years, most recently as the CMPRO. The Chamber has
appreciated the years of partnership through Scott’s involvement and leadership.
CONGRATULATIONS TO LAURA BIEBER
AS THE NEW MADISON AMERICINN MANAGER
Bieber was promoted from within fall of 2015
CONGRATULATIONS TO BULLDOG MEDIA GROUP INC.
ON THEIR 15TH ANNIVERSARY, SINCE 2000
As a Madison business with customers local, regional, national and international.
CONGRATULATIONS TO DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY
FOR APPROVAL ON UPCOMING BUILDING PROJECTS
In December the SD Board of Regents approved plans for three building projects
at DSU, plan of the Trojan Center 7.5 million dollar renovation, the design for the
11.5 million dollar new Beacom Center, and the 7 million dollar renovation and
furnishings for the hospital building.
CONGRATULATIONS TO RUSSELL OLSON
APPOINTED TO THE SD GAME FISH & PARKS COMMISSION
Gov. Dennis Daugaard appointed Olson of Madison to the South Dakota Game,
Fish and Parks Commission for a four year term January 2016 - 2020. Russell is
the Chief Executive Officer of Heartland Consumers Power District, an active
outdoorsman, served as District 8 Legislator from 2007 - 2013 and lifelong
resident of South Dakota.
David Owen, President of the
SD Chamber of Commerce
and Industry, in Madison
President Owen gave a preview of 2016
Legislative issues expected to be a part the
upcoming session as the guest speaker of the
Madison Rotary Club. All attending were
provided insight on the upcoming session and
expected topics: Ballot Measures, Workers’
Compensation – Wheeler Decision, Economic
Development – tax options, Education –
teacher pay, funding and tax reform, and
Medicaid Expansion.
Thank you to Madison Rotary for having
our state President as your informational
speaker.
8
January/February 2016
Congratulations on
15 Years Bulldog
Media Group Inc.
In 2000, member business Bulldog Media Group Inc. was established in
Madison SD. BMG Inc. is a performance-based, online marketing company
that works closely with the banking industry that is celebrating over 15
years of doing business throughout the US, Australia, United Kingdom and
Canada. They are a recognized industry leader that has developed
proprietary software and innovative technologies to meet the stringent rules
and regulations for their banking clients. From a startup company BMG
Inc. now employs 18 with their corporate offices located in downtown
Madison SD at 114 N. Egan Ave.
When asked about their business, growth and success locally, regionally
and internationally, President and Co-founder Darin Namken stated “It has
been a fast 15 years! Things have really changed and our staff has been
tremendous at making those adjustments. We have people that have been
behind this company for so long that it’s really
more like a family here. It’s been great to do this
right here in South Dakota. We will be
aggressively growing in 2016 by adding at least 56 more to our corporate family.”
Bulldog Media Group Inc. has assisted in
community service projects throughout the years
including moving the Madison High School Library
books and equipment to the newly constructed
MHS Library following the 2014 high school
remodel, painted the wood coverings of Egan
Avenue light poles to enhance our downtown and
in 2015 provided labor to help landscape the
DARIN NAMKEN
recently constructed ECCO Inc. residential home. President and CoCongratulations to Bulldog Media Group Inc on founder of Bulldog
this accomplishment and your continued growth Media Group Inc.
from your Chamber!
February 2, 2016 Madison/DSU Hosts the Legislature
Plan to reserve your place and
attend the entire day for the 2016
Madison/DSU Hosts the Legislature
on Tuesday, February 2nd in Pierre
coordinated
by
the
GMACC
Governmental Affairs Committee.
The event is an informational day for
all and important day for the future
of our area community through our
impact with decision makers. In 2016
in addition to being at the Capitol
Building we will visit the OAHE Dam
on the Missouri River near Pierre,
with a tour given by the Corps of
Engineers to our Madison group.
This year we will again host a
reception for state legislators, cabinet
members and other elected officials
and dignitaries and all attending
from Madison, which has been
attended by over two hundred in the
past with over one hundred from
Madison for the day. We hope for
even more to plan on attending the
event and promote our community
and businesses plus gain information
at the State Capital of the day.
Cost is $60 for the entire day
(including motor coach ride, meals
and evening reception). Meals only
are $30. Reservations are taken at
the Chamber Office at 256-2454 or
director@chamberofmadisonsd.com.
Ribbon Cuttings & Open Houses
Madison Family Dental
- Remodel and Meet Dr. Braun Open House
Many attended the open house on November 5th at 502 N.E. 2nd Street to tour the
newly remodeled office and equipment upgrades and to meet Dr. Cassondra
Braun. All seven of the dental treatment rooms have the most up-to-date dental
equipment and technology available to better diagnose and treat their patients in
a comfortable environment. Dr. Cassondra Braun joined Madison Family Dental
this summer and many had an opportunity to meet her during the open house.
L-R: Kate Shaw, Sam Carmody, Glynis Koch, Kim Paradeis, Brianna Blom, Dr.
Cassondra Braun and Dr. Troy Keyes
A1 Travel of SD
Powered by Totally Trips
Ribbon Cutting & Open House
On November 13th new manager Allison Bleyenberg, travel consultant Kim Reverts
and previous owner Joan Coomes greeted members, friends and customers during
their recognition. A1 Travel of SD Powered by Totally Trips is now owned by Chad
and Jennifer Evans. Totally Trips is based out of Missouri and their Madison Office
represents their 4th location to provide guidance and professional services in selecting,
planning and booking business and leisure travel. Check out this continued resource
in Madison as you consider your next family trip, business travel or customer
appreciation regionally, nationally or internationally located on 118 W. Center Street.
L-R: Liz Avery, Sharon Patch, Glenda Blom, Lisa Robson, Gary and Joan Coomes,
Allison Bleyenberg, Kim Reverts, Heather Zins, Sarah Gitzen, and Rosie Jamison.
9
January/February 2016
12 Days of Christmas Gift Certificate Contributors
2nd Street Diner
Gary's Bakery
Madison Vision Clinic
Stadium Sports Grill
4 Seasons Fleamarket
Grapevines - Gifts for all
McDonald's
Stan's Men's & Women's
B&B Appliance
of Life's Journey's
Mochavino
Apparel
Bud's Clean Up
Great Western Bank
Montgomery's
SUBWAY
Camp Lakodia
Hillside Steakhouse and
Nicky's Restaurant &
Sunshine
CarQuest Auto Parts
BluCabana Bar
Lounge
Super Wash
Cars for Les
Interlakes Sport Center
One Stop
Susan's Solid Surface
Celtic Clippers
Jack's Service
Pizza Ranch of Madison
Specialties - DFC
Central Business
Jack's ''The Meat Store''
Power Promotions
Taco John's
Cherry Lanes
Cold Storage
Probuild
The Community Center
Classic Corner
James River Equipment
Prostrollo All-American
The Eyecare Center
Country Café
John Green Art Studio
Auto Mall
The Floral Shop Dairy Queen
Johnsons Jewelry
Pulford's Auto Parts Madison Nursery
Dakotaland FCU
Josh and Pam's Computer
NAPA
The Pawn Shop
Dar's Hair Design
Repair
Sample Our Flowers
The Pub House
DSU Bookstore
Karl's TV & Appliance
Scooby’s Convenience
The Shepherd Shop
El Vaquero Mexican
KolorWorks Paint &
Shopko
Unique Boutique
Restaurant
Decorating
Skipper's Italian Grill
Consignment
ENCORE Family Store
Lewis
Sparkle & Sass Boutique
Urban Junk
F&M Co-op
Madison Ace Hardware
Sportsman's Steakhouse
Wireless World
First Bank & Trust
Madison Discount Liquor
& Lounge
Thank you for your contributions to entice people to shop locally for the holidays and make a difference in
our community growth and opportunities!
ck’sMarket
JaMeat
(605) 256-2556 • 1-800-615-2556
208 SW 1st St • Madison, SD
Gary’s
five Chamber members businesses and organizations given to one winner each
week day plus four bonus drawings during the 12 days before Christmas. Sixteen
local shoppers won WINNER
REGISTRATION LOCATION
$450 or more each
Sharon O’Connell
KolorWorks Paint & Design
weekday
from
Gayla Anderson
Gary’s Bakery
December 7th-22nd.
Becky Hofer
Encore Family Store
Thank you to
The Community Center
Chamber members Beverly Riedel
Johnson Jewelry
for participating in Dave Heim
Mike
Stangeland
Great Western Bank
the
Chamber
Sunshine Foods
Holiday Promotion Carol Fischer
Sparkle and Sass Boutique
and to all who Lindsey Symens
Casey’s General Store
registered
and Jim Wise
East River Federal Credit Union
shopped
locally Marie Bickett
Dakotaland Federal Credit Union
this holiday season Carolyn Feige
Sportsman’s Steakhouse &Lounge
and throughout the Cathy Janke
Paula Kingery
The Floral Shop – Madison Nursery
year.
Congratulations to Clarence Hofer Sr. Madison Vision Clinic
Dairy Queen
the
following Jo Duffy
Leah Knofczynski
The Shepherd Shop
winners:
Jay Van Liere
270-2142
483-3322
www.LakeViewRealty.org
45904 Sharon Lane • Lake Madison, SD
256-6160 • Cell 270-1471
F&M Coop
256-4516 • Madison, SD
...It’s Simply Better
256-4747
302 S. Egan Ave. • Madison, SD
Bud's Clean-Up Service
LOCK
& KEY
For all your lock & key needs!
Chamber 12 Days of Christmas
= $7,330 in 2015
A total of $7300 in gift certificates or Chamber Bucks were donated by seventy
First Madison Insurance
109 S Egan, Madison, SD • (605) 256-6634
www.FirstMadisonInsurance.com
Commercial, Residential and
Rolloff Waste Services
22925 455th Ave • Madison, SD 57042
(605) 256-2518
215 N. VAN EPS • 256-3541
211 NW 1st St., Madison, SD
256-1525
121 South Egan, Madison, SD 57042
www.madisonsdrealty.com
256-3888
We cover your part of the world.
432 SE 12th St., Madison
256-6536
Got Pests? Call the Experts.
A&B
PEST CONTROL
MARK SIMONSON
270-0601
Residential • Commercial • Agricultural
214 S Egan Ave in Madison
www.DailyLeaderExtra.com
256-4555 or 1-877-635-7323
Bethel
Lutheran Home
1001 South Egan Avenue
Madison, South Dakota 57042
If you are interested in this
great offer please call
(605) 556-7500
www.MadisonSDHomes.com
218 S Egan Ave in Madison
www.LeaderPrinting.com
256-4444 or 1-877-LPC-PRINT
301 North Egan • Madison • 605-256-6532
www.greatwesternbank.com
Melissa, Kirsten or Travis
at (605) 256-4555
Promote your business in the Chamber Business to Business Directory for only $10 an issue.
10
January/February 2016
14th Annual Chamber Show & Sell = Success
The Annual Chamber Show & Sell
brought hundreds of shoppers out in Madison
on Saturday, November 28th to view a record
number 116 vendor booths from three states.
This was the largest event since the first
event in 2002. Vendors came from as far as
Shakopee, MN, Big Stone City, SD, Pierre,
SD, plus many from our local Madison area.
They offered a variety of art, specialty foods,
crafts, decorations, accessories, wooden and
metal displays, clothing and more. Thank you
to the GMACC Diplomat Committee, Board
Members,
Chamber
members,
DSU,
Community Center, and Dakota Prairie
Playhouse staff, SD National Guard, DSU
Men’s Basketball Team, DSU Career Services
Association, Madison Christian School, KJAM
Radio and Madison Daily Leader for helping
to make this a great event for customers,
vendors and our community overall! Special
thank you to Chamber Members Susan and
Marlon Overholt of Dakota Fixture & Cabinet
for their assistance to vendors and
coordinators to ensure a positive experience
for all attending. This is an important holiday
event and fund raiser of the Greater Madison
Area Chamber of Commerce. We appreciate
everyone’s support and patronage. The 2016
Annual Chamber Show & Sell will once again
be the Saturday following Thanksgiving,
which is November 26, 2016. Mark your
calendars and plan to attend!
2015 Chamber and DSU Holiday Mixer
Kicked off the Holiday Season on November 23rd
Over seventy enjoyed the 2015 Holiday Mixer which combined a celebration of the
Chamber 85th Anniversary, successful partnering with members and an opportunity to meet
DSU President, Dr. Jose’ Marie Griffiths. The event was coordinated by the Chamber
Diplomat Committee and DSU Foundation staff. Holiday drawings were held and the winners
were: Laura Osborn $25 in Chamber Bucks, Joel Morgan DSU Alumni Gift Basket of DSU
Logo Items and Amy Crissinger Grapevines - Gifts for Life’s Journey Floral Arrangement.
The Holiday Mixer was catered by Sodexo, DSU Food Service and Catering, and beverages
provided by DSU Foundation.
Pictured are: The Hostesses of the 2015 Holiday Mixer held at the DSU Alumni and
Foundation Kringen Center L-R Rosie Jamison GMACC, Donna Fawbush DSU and
Chamber Board, Cindy Callies First Madison Insurance, Diplomat Committee and
Chamber Board, Jennifer DeKam GMACC, Jill Ruhd, Peg Kietzer DSU Foundation,
Lisa Robson Bulldog Media Group & Diplomat Committee and Jona Schmidt – DSU
Foundation and Alumni. Not pictured were Diplomat Committee Members Alicia
Entringer, Jerrilyn McNary and Karen Kalvig.
Dr. José-Marie Griffiths – Chamber Members, DSU members and Foundation
DSU President and Liz Avery Board attended throughout the event.
– GMACC President & East
River Electric Power Coop.
Pictured are a few of items from the 2015 Show and Sell. All enjoy this event to shop
while visiting with friends, continuing a family tradition to come and see the items,
crafts, and art shared by vendors new and continued at the annual Chamber Show &
Sell.
11
January/February 2016
Day with Santa 2015 Thank You
The Chamber Day with Santa was held on
December 12, 2015 at the Downtown City
Armory. More than 450 children and over 1100
total people attended the event coordinated by
the Chamber Day with Santa Committee and
Chamber staff. Santa arrived at the Armory on
a Madison Fire Department fire truck escorted
by the Madison Police Department. Children
visited Santa, registered for prizes, and
enjoyed refreshments. During the event they
were able to make craft projects, play games
and decorate cookies at seven different activity
booths provided by Madison businesses and
area community organizations. After visiting
Santa, 425 children received goodie bags from
Santa’s Elf. Prizes were awarded throughout
the event by age and gender with the Grand
Prize Drawings held at the end of the event.
Donations and contributions from 58 Chamber
Members and others made the day possible.
Thank You to the following for making the
day a memorable event for many children and
a success for the community: Kie-lyn Haar,
Ashley Carrico, Sharon Patch, Liz Avery, Sara
Wardner, Joanne Wheeler, Deb and Dean
Feistner, Mike and Amanda Trimble, Good
Shepherd Free Lutheran Volunteers, Pam
Boldt, Stephanie Johnson, Joyce Hyland, Rylie
and Danese Johannsen, Shannon and Sherise
Kaufman, Dennis Zingmark, Jim Stearns, City
of Madison, Madison Fire and Police
Department, American Legion, Scott Jamison,
Sue and Marty Warns, plus Eleni and Elijah
Sims. Also a special appreciation to our DSU
Baseball Team and coaches Scott and Eric
Hortness – 18 DSU Baseball student- athletes
donated 2 hours of community service each for
the event assembly and set up. This event is
made possible by all of their collective
volunteer efforts. THANK YOU!
See Day with Santa. on page 12
to all who
helped make the 2015
DAY WITH SANTA
Event Fun For Many Children
The Greater Madison Area Chamber Day with Santa Committee
coordinates this event and appreciates the following businesses,
members, groups and sponsors for their participation or assistance.
2015 CHAMBER DAY WITH SANTA GOODIE BAG
CONTRIBUTORS
Joyce Hyland, Rylie Johannsen and Sara Wardner
with Santa.
Classic Corner
Coca-Cola
Dairy Queen
Dakotaland FCU
ENCORE Family Store
Madison Daily Leader
Madison’s Magical Christmas
Manitou Group
McDonalds Restaurant
One Stop
Pawn Shop
Pizza Ranch of Madison
Power Promotions
Sparkle & Sass Boutique
Unique Boutique Consignment
We Care Dental
SPONSORS FOR CHAMBER DAY WITH SANTA
DSU Baseball helped on day two.
2nd Street Diner
4 Seasons Flea Market &
Boutique
Amert Construction Co., Inc.
Derrill Hanson, DDS
East River Federal Credit
Union
ECCO, Inc.
Gary's Bakery & Café
Great Western Bank
Krug Products, Inc.
Madison Discount Liquor
Madison Family Dental
Madison Kiwanis Club
Madison Lawn Care
Madison Vision Clinic
McDonald’s Restaurant
Meyer Farms
Mochavino, LLC
Montgomery's
Nicky's Restaurant & Lounge
NorthWestern Energy
Parks Marina, Inc.
Phillips, Gene & Margie
Prostrollo All-American Auto
Mall
Schwader Tax Service
Sturdevant's Auto Parts
Sunshine Foods
The Pampered Chef - Rita
Feldhaus
Wilbur Ellis – Chester
ORGANIZATIONS PROVIDING ACTIVITIES
Country Swingers 4-H Club
Country Cousins 4-H Club
Dakotaland Federal Credit
Union
KJAM
Good Shepherd Free Lutheran
Church
Lake County 4-H
MHS - Buckle Up Bulldogs
SUPPORT FOR THE EVENT
American Legion
City of Madison
Grapevines – Gifts for all of
Life’s Journeys
Madison Police Department
Madison Fire Department
Montgomery’s
TOY DONATIONS & DISCOUNTS FOR THE EVENT
Campbell Supply
James River Equipment
Lake County International
Lewis
Madison Ace Hardware
One Stop
Shopko Hometown
Volunteers and DSU Baseball Team
L-R Sharon Patch, Deb Feistner, Pam Boldt and Jennifer DeKam at registration. JoAnn Wheeler not
pictured.
And of Course . . .a very special
Thank You to SANTA for children to see
and share their Christmas wishes.
12
Community Christmas
continued from page 1
The Madison Holiday Community Kickoff
was on November 27th from 4-7 with the tree
lighting at 7 p.m. The bitter cold curtailed
several from strolling on Egan Avenue.
However, many still came and enjoyed the
festivities during the event. We were glad to
have the Holiday Train for little ones,
marshmallow roast and letter writing to
Santa plus treats and hot drinks by the 2017
European Youth Trip Group. In addition,
stores held open houses throughout the day
and specials into the evening to promote
holiday shopping while the Madison Kiwanis
Club sang Christmas Carols on Egan and
before the tree lighting.
The Community Christmas tree was lit by
Joe Thompson who had planted the spruce
tree in his back yard in the 1970s that
provided nearly a forty foot symbol of
Christmas placed at the busy intersection of
Egan and NE 2nd Avenue. Many witnessed
the tree lighting following comments of
appreciation shared by Honorable Mayor Roy
Lindsay and Rosie Jamison the Executive
Director of the Chamber and Christmas
Carols lead by the Madison Kiwanis Club.
Thank you to all who participated in the
first Holiday Kickoff – businesses,
organizations, volunteers, and attendees. We
appreciate the collaboration, partnership,
support and vision in promoting the holiday
spirit and Madison community pride in 2015
during the 85th year of your Chamber.
January/February 2016
Christmas at the Museum
Activities, Lebahn Train,
Music and Treats
Many enjoyed the day including
viewing the Smith-Zimmermann
Museum of Trees, Santa and Fun on
Sunday, December 13th This year
people viewed twenty one trees
adorning the Museum for the holiday
from organizations. Your Chamber tree
had the 85th Anniversary messages as
ornaments as a reminder of the
Chamber milestone in 2015.
Thank you to the Lake County
Historical Society for providing this
holiday
event
and
to
those
participating in the Christmas tree
displays.
Day with Santa continued from page 11
2015 Community Christmas Tree after
being lit by Joe Thompson on November 27th
KJAM gave rides to children on the East
River Electric Cooperative train.
One of four grand prize winners of Day
with Santa.
Day with Santa radio stars – Eleni and
Elijah Sims and Ethan with JJ Reed.
Santa giving Jeff Nelson of Lake County
Food Pantry a donation.