Message from the Chair
In 2013, Sioux Falls was put in the national spotlight when it was recognized as a “boomtown” by national media outlets. The attention came from indicators like low unemployment, a strong and diversified economy, and unfaltering growth, even during the recession a few years earlier.
Each year, we collect a handful of new accolades. We’ve been ranked on lists like best place to retire, best place for young professionals, best city for careers, and more.
our downtown is…the envy of many cities of the same size.
While our entire community earns these accolades, I am convinced that our thriving downtown is a significant contributor. A conscious and careful revitalization of our downtown has been underway for decades. As a result, our downtown is a destination for shopping, eating and entertainment that is the envy of many cities of the same size.
Personally, I never run out of things to do downtown. My family and I enjoy the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra, the State Theater, the Washington Pavilion (to name just a few), and many restaurants and shops that line Phillips Avenue, 8th Street and beyond. In this issue, our feature story looks at what to expect for downtown development and growth. You have probably heard of many of these developments individually, but when you stop to think about them as a whole, it is incredible to imagine what our downtown will be in just a few short years.
One of my favorite times of the year is quickly approaching – the holidays! I always make multiple trips to Falls Park and downtown businesses to get in the holiday spirit. As we get closer to the holiday shopping season, I want to emphasize the importance of keeping our dollars local. As you start to make your holiday shopping list, please think about making those purchases locally to support our small businesses. Your fellow chamber members and other small businesses are the essence of our community. You can find a directory of chamber members on our website at siouxfallschamber.com Let’s show each other support by being customers!
This month, we also celebrate Veterans Day, which marks the anniversary of the end of World War I on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. The Chamber’s Military & Veterans Affairs Committee works with several local veterans’ groups to organize and host the annual Veterans Day Ceremony on November 11. I invite you to take an hour or two out of your day to join us in recognizing the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans. This event is always an inspiring one.
Last, I wanted to wish everyone a happy and healthy Thanksgiving. Let’s take a moment to be thankful for family, friends and loved ones. On behalf of Chamber volunteer leadership and staff, we give thanks for all our member businesses for your support and contributions to the Sioux Falls community.
Alex Ramirez
USA Media TV
