logo
Mitchell named South Dakota's Community of the Year for third time

Mitchell named South Dakota's Community of the Year for third time

Yahoo01-03-2025
Feb. 28—MITCHELL — Mitchell's growth has transformed the city, according to locals. Now, that progress has earned it the title of Community of the Year.
Earlier this week at the Governor's Conference on Economic Development, it was revealed that Mitchell has been named South Dakota's Community of the Year. This prestigious recognition celebrates the city's continued commitment to economic growth, housing development, and workforce expansion, highlighting its role as a key leader in the state's future development.
The achievement of being named Community of the Year marks Mitchell's third time winning the award. Mitchell was first recognized in 1988, when the award was introduced, and again in 2011.
"This is a great achievement for our wonderful community and will further our current momentum we have going in Mitchell," said Mayor Jordan Hanson.
Mike Lauritsen, CEO of the Mitchell Area Development Corporation (MADC), explained that the award recognizes the collective efforts, vision and teamwork that have helped Mitchell become a standout community. He highlighted the city's growth through new housing, substantial business investments and major projects like the $500 million High Plains Soybean Processing Plant, positioning Mitchell for continued success and progress.
Lauritsen says a key moment in Mitchell's journey to earning this recognition came last fall when Gov. Kristi Noem visited for a series of ribbon-cutting ceremonies. Lauritsen made sure to use the opportunity to show the governor the city's momentum firsthand.
"We're seeing construction happening everywhere — housing, businesses, infrastructure," Lauritsen said. "The momentum is real, and I made sure to point that out while she was here."
Lauritsen's pitch to Noem included showcasing Mitchell's latest developments, from the creation of 100 new housing lots to the relocation of 52 families through the Chamber's $1,000 "Move to Mitchell" program. He emphasized how these initiatives address the growing housing and workforce needs in the city, making Mitchell a place where families and businesses can thrive.
At Noem's request, Lauritsen quickly organized a lunch with families who had relocated to Mitchell through the Chamber's relocation program. Lauritsen noted that Noem was particularly engaged during this meeting, asking questions and showing genuine interest in the experiences of the new residents.
"She was very engaged and wanted to hear about how the process was working for them," Lauritsen said. "I think it really resonated with her when she saw how our efforts are paying off in real, tangible ways."
The $500 million High Plains Soybean Processing Plant is another development that Lauritsen pointed to as a major game-changer for Mitchell and the surrounding region. The plant, which is expected to create 75 new jobs, is the largest economic development project in state history. Lauritsen highlighted how the project will strengthen the region's agricultural economy, benefiting local farmers and creating a ripple effect in Mitchell's economy.
"This soybean processing plant will not only provide high-quality jobs but also support value-added agriculture in the region," Lauritsen said. "When it opens, we'll see more money circulating in the community."
Mitchell's commitment to expanding its economy and addressing local needs is not slowing down. Lauritsen pointed to the city's ongoing projects, such as a low-interest loan program in partnership with the South Dakota Department of Transportation to build a transportation loop around the soybean plant. This new infrastructure will reduce transportation costs for area farmers and contribute to the plant's success.
"This project will make a significant difference for local farmers," Lauritsen said. "It's all about making it easier for them to get their product to market, and that's a win for the entire community."
Laurie Cooper, director of operations for the Mitchell Area Chamber of Commerce, attributes the city's prime location, right off the interstate, as a key factor in its success.
"We are the gateway to the west," Cooper said. "And because of that location, we are always driving the workforce, holding job fairs, and constantly marketing the town to businesses outside of our borders. There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes, and we are always trying to grow and make Mitchell better."
Looking ahead, Lauritsen also revealed that the Mitchell Area Development Corporation has signed a purchase agreement for a 20-acre industrial park aimed at attracting distribution centers. The site, located adjacent to the interstate, will provide another boost to the local economy. The corporation is currently seeking a zero-interest loan through the Rural Electric Economic Development (REED) fund to help with infrastructure development at the new park.
"We're very optimistic about what the future holds," Lauritsen said. "These projects are just the beginning. Mitchell has a lot of momentum, and we're going to keep pushing forward."
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

State labor commissioner highlights economic benefits of NY budget during Elmira stop
State labor commissioner highlights economic benefits of NY budget during Elmira stop

Yahoo

time8 hours ago

  • Yahoo

State labor commissioner highlights economic benefits of NY budget during Elmira stop

The recently-approved $254 billion New York state budget includes the most comprehensive effort to boost workforce development and economic growth in the Southern Tier and elsewhere in years, according to New York State Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon. At the invitation of the Chemung County Chamber of Commerce, Reardon made a stop in Elmira on Aug. 13 as part of a statewide tour to tout New York Gov. Kathy Hochul's budget and explain how several provisions will benefit businesses, workers and the economy in general. Reardon highlighted several ways the state budget specifically addresses the needs of both business and labor. Pays off the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt, lowering costs for businesses. Creates more access to child care, providing $400 million for child care vouchers and $110 million to build new facilities and renovate existing ones. Provides free community college for students 25 to 35 who are pursuing careers in high demand fields, including education, health care and high tech manufacturing. Modernizes child labor laws and improves worker safety. "We want to make sure we take care of everybody. We can't leave anybody behind," Reardon said. "The free community college program is really exciting. The state will pay for tuition, books, education, health care." The money invested in all of the programs Reardon outlined is a good investment that will help build the economy and help prevent people from leaving New York, she said. "It's $60 billion that stabilizes the earnings of workers. It puts more money in their pockets," Reardon said. "That's money that goes right back into the economy. It's an investment. People will earn more money, pay more taxes. It's a small investment to ensure the state stays robust." Milestones Elmira native tapped as executive director for nationally-recognized Buffalo arts center Chemung County Chamber of Commerce President Jennifer Herrick-McGonigal said she was very pleased Hochul and other state leaders are taking steps to improve business conditions in the Southern Tier, adding the move to restore solvency to the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund will be especially beneficial to businesses. "This action represents a critical win for businesses across Chemung County," Herrick-McGonigal said. "By easing the financial burden on local employers, this relief empowers them to reinvest in their workforce, grow their operations, and contribute to long-term regional economic development." Follow Jeff Murray on X (Twitter) @SGJeffMurray. To get unlimited access to the latest news, please subscribe or activate your digital account today. This article originally appeared on Elmira Star-Gazette: NY labor commissioner stops in Elmira to praise impact of budget Solve the daily Crossword

TSA launches eGates to speed up airport security checkpoint lines
TSA launches eGates to speed up airport security checkpoint lines

USA Today

time9 hours ago

  • USA Today

TSA launches eGates to speed up airport security checkpoint lines

Airport security checkpoint lines can sometimes feel like a major hold-up, but the launch of new electronic gates may help travelers get through them faster. Called eGates, these new security checkpoint features automatically compare someone's biometrics against their identification document and boarding pass instead of by a Transportation Security Administration officer at the podium, according to a news release by the agency on Aug. 19. The new pilot program is meant to streamline the airport security screening process, including "enhancing efficiency and security," the release continued. Under the new modernization program, travelers will scan their boarding pass and walk up to the eGate, which scans their face. Once cleared, they go directly to the bag screening. "eGates accomplish several objectives toward achieving Secretary Noem's goal to enhance TSA security and hospitality," said TSA Acting Deputy Administrator Adam Stahl in a statement. "This includes creating a seamless, less invasive traveler experience and shorter wait times at TSA security checkpoints." The eGates are currently being piloted in partnership with CLEAR – a privately run program that already uses biometrics to expedite travelers' security screening – and is only available to CLEAR+ members at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), where it launched earlier this month. TSA has complete operational control over the eGates, with CLEAR only transmitting limited data, like a live photo and boarding pass, the company said in a news release. "CLEAR is investing in this technology at no cost to taxpayers to modernize our checkpoints and ensure America's airports are ready to meet global expectations," said CLEAR CEO Caryn Seidman Becker in a statement. "CLEAR's secure identity platform will help unlock a better, safer, and more frictionless experience for all travelers." The eGates will roll out at Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) this month with a slated nationwide implementation before the influx of travel for the FIFA World Cup 2026 games, according to CLEAR.

Chamber celebrates 100 years, past presidents at special luncheon
Chamber celebrates 100 years, past presidents at special luncheon

Yahoo

timea day ago

  • Yahoo

Chamber celebrates 100 years, past presidents at special luncheon

A lot has happened in the last 100 years — perhaps a period of more rapid and drastic societal transformation than any other point in human history. And through it all, the Somerset-Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce has been working on behalf of this community. The Chamber is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and as such held a special luncheon on Tuesday at the Lake Cumberland Farmers Market at Citizens National Bank Pavilion to recognize both the milestone and all the past board presidents of the Chamber — 25 of whom were in attendance. Present Tuesday were Steven J. Fischer (1972), Frank B. Barker (1982), Mike Whitaker (1990), Jack Evans (1992), John Nelson (1995), Susan Wilson (1996), Brenda Peckinpaugh (1999), Don Bloomer (2003), Mike Tarter (2004), Teresa Hail (2005), Mark Ross (2006), Jack Wilhelm (2007), Allen Anderson (2008), Charles Coldiron (2009), Cathy Epperson (2010), Doug Parkey (2012), Leah Taylor (2013), Chris Girdler (2014), Seth Atwell (2017), Daniel Cheshire (2018), Linda Skaarup (2019), Troy Lovell (2020), Tiffany Finley (2022), Shawn Daugherty (2023), Lisa Phelps (2024), and current Chamber president Laura Glover — the "100 year" president, as she was dubbed. "I'm lucky to be the one who gets to celebrate with you a glimpse of the past and also a promise of the future for our entire business community, and that is what each of you ... represent today," said Glover, speaking to the past presidents present. "... You have helped make the Chamber what it is today, and for that, we are appreciative." What the Chamber is today is bigger and better than ever. Executive Director Bobby Clue shared that the Chamber's membership was a little over 400 in number when he started in the position in 2011; today, the Chamber has more than 1,200 members, making it the sixth-largest business support organization in Kentucky. Last year alone, he said, the Chamber brought in 226 new members, and it also maintains a high retention rate, close to 98% of existing members. "These programs and so many others are not possible without the solid foundation that you, our past presidents, laid before us," Clue said at Tuesday's event. "But if I'm being honest, what I'm most proud of are the countless, often unseen ways the Chamber makes a direct impact on businesses." Bobby Clue at 100th year luncheon Somerset-Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Bobby Clue speaks to the crowd at Tuesday's celebration luncheon honoring past Chamber board presidents for the organization's 100th anniversary. Clue talked about how the Chamber helped small businesses stay afloat during the Covid-19 years in particular, or the times he introduced two businesses owners who didn't previously know each other, and would watch that introduction "spark new partnerships, new opportunities and new growth." He added, "Each day, I draw inspiration from your example, and I'm humbled that you've entrusted me with the responsibility of helping to usher this organization into the next century." Current Chamber board vice-president Dr. Bruce Gover, who will take over the position next year from Glover, spoke on the future of the Chamber, mentioned one of the most controversial topics when it comes to the future of human existence in any respect — artificial intelligence, and its impact on the business community. "As we celebrate our strengths, we must prepare for what's ahead. Over the next five years, small- and medium-sized businesses in Somerset-Pulaski County will face a transformative period, I think, largely driven by ... artificial intelligence," he said. "A.I. is no longer a distant concept. It is here, it's on Main Street ... and it's going to require a reshaping of how our businesses adapt to that environment. "For our local entrepreneurs and small business owners, artificial intelligence offers a powerful boost to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer engagement," said Gover. "... Businesses that delay adoption of artificial intelligence, or at least embracing some of the concepts there, will find themselves possibly at a competitive disadvantage. That's why it's crucial for our Chamber to play a pivotal role and a proactive role in supporting the education, training and integration of these new technologies." Other factors facing the local business landscape, he said, include retaining young talent in the area and facing the challenges posed by inflation. He said that the Chamber is beginning a "new process of strategically positioning the Chamber of Commerce for the next century," with a process of strategic planning to start in the coming months. He also asked for input from the past president, for them to offer their voice, and even provided survey forms on which those past presidents were asked to give their opinions on a variety of topics. Those in attendance received the gift of a keychain in the shape of a key, symbolizing the Chamber opening the door to what the future holds, and watched a video with comments from past presidents on the Chamber's success over the years. Clue said that Tuesday's event "exceeded (his) wildest expectations," and gave him the opportunity to meet some past presidents he hadn't encountered before. "You'll never see that group together again," Clue told the Commonwealth Journal. "That's a one-time opportunity, and it's really cool. It's a special thing about turning 100 years old." Several of the past presidents also spoke to the Commonwealth Journal following the luncheon, as well as the burial of a time capsule on the grounds of the Somerset Energy Center grounds set to be opened in 50 years' time. "It's certainly a celebration of what has happened in the past, but I think even more so, it is a great look to the future," said Charles Coldiron. "We can't live in the past and we've got to prepare for the future, and I think the leadership of the community, both industrially and politically, (have) been looking forward, and that's what it's going to take to keep this area continuing to prosper as it has over the past 100 years." Chris Girdler said, "This is what community is all about, is people volunteering their time and efforts, services, resources, and all of the above. I think seeing this many people come out together is a great example of the collaboration that this community's had over the last several years that has led to the success that we're continuing to see, and I think it's a sign of what's left to come." Frank Barker talked about instituting a June Dairy Month event. "We had a cow down there, and I milked it ... right on the square," he said. In 1996, Susan Wilson became only the second female president of the Chamber, following Judy Burdine nine years earlier. Said Wilson following Tuesday's event, "It's always good to stop and take a look at where you've been and talk about where you're going. ... I just commend all the Chamber staff and the current officers for all that they're doing. It's just been really great." Solve the daily Crossword

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store