Blog---March 14, 2025—9-10---It’s YOUR Business

   One of the things we enjoy doing on Friday—is giving our audience quite the update on what has been going on and will be in the days ahead. For years we have utilized Jodi Schwan---and Jessie Schmidt---Teri Schmidt----and Kip Rounds—SD Game Fish and Parks.

   In that first half hour we have been able to make sure you know what happened and in essence that things will be OK for another week.

   Jodi Schwan----Sioux Falls Business shared it was 8 years ago today that she started rocking and rolling with what she does for all of us today. 

   On her list this morning---interesting reuse for part of the downtown Sioux Steel property---lots of restaurant changes this week—Ode Reopens—the old Alibi Reopens, Shenanigans opens and Watecha moves----

   To me ---what better way to start the Friday show then what Jodi and her team have done and are doing. We have been fortunate to work with her for 8 so years.

  Jessie Schmidt---BBB of South Dakota ---shared another fake today—the SO CALLED BIZ SPRING FLING---is a fake event that has popped up in Sioux Falls as well communities in not only our state but other communities ----still getting those health gotchas----and phony calls that just want you to answer the phone. Don’t do it if you recognize it.

   Don’t be afraid to call the BBB if you have questions—better to call then get taken.

   Another SCHMIDT—Teri---Experience Sioux Falls---took us thru a report from our friend James Hagen—Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Tourism. 

   In essence each of South Dakota’s four tourism regions showed an increase in visitor spending in 2024—according to a recent detailed analysis of visitor spending in South Dakota. Conducted by Tourism Economics, the latest report shows that visitor spending continues to grow positively affecting every county in South Dakota through taxable sales, got creation—and yes WAGES.

    Total visitor spending in South Dakota reached a record high of $5.09 billion—a 2.8% increased compared to 2023. 

    The new Governor—Larry Rhoden shared—“South Dakota’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history and vibrant communities captivate visitors across the world. In 2024—tourism supported more than 58,000 jobs for South Dakotans and provided $2.2 billion in household income to those families. 

     To view the full Tourism Economics County and Region Level Impact Report visit SDVisit.com 

      Mr. South Dakota Game Fish and Parks voice Kip Rounds shared that we had 60’s and 70’s below zero—another round of snow—but what do we need to know about what people going outdoors are doing in day to day weather. 

      Regardless of the weather outdoors—there are opportunities to enjoy what we have been given----and so many people are. 

      He used the word Snow Geese, Boats, and Camp Grounds—as three things that should catch your interest.

      Ron Nelson---yes Mr. Commercial Real Estate for our audience –talked about how the economic activity has taken off like a rocket since the election----but we are starting to come back to earth. Great start but Tariffs and all the Doge cuts, that spike is very much leveling off. 

     Ron explains that the obvious hope is this is short term pain for long term gain. The BIG question everyone is asking is “How short term is the pain? 

     UNCERTAINTY is the word getting the most use right now. The uncertainty index has now shot to the 2nd highest level in history, higher than the 2008 economic meltdown, higher than the last government shutdown in ‘18’—second only to the pandemic. 

     Ron made the point that uncertainly can paralyze business with indecisiveness. We don’t know yet how the markets will respond to Tariffs. As he explained—he is in a construction project and he has been told to get things figured out quickly as certain materials they were using will likely be subject to tariffs. 

     He then pointed out that just like every year-we still have unbelievable opportunities here, not just in Sioux Falls, but lots of places—but especially in SIOUX FALLS where things are always special.

     Mr. Downtown Sioux Falls Brandon Hanson---talked about the St. Patrick’s Day Parade which will have snow—but we are all seeing the spring is right around the corner and as the season starts to warm up, so does Downtown Sioux Falls. 

     From keeping sidewalks spotless to assisting visitors, their work ensures downtown remains a vibrant, safe, and inviting place for everyone. 

     DTSF focuses on 3 things—keeping downtown clean and safe, driving foot traffic and boosting economic activity. And with an exciting lineup of event, now is the perfect time to explore, shop and support the small businesses that make Downtown Thrive. 

     From the Sports side---John Gaskins is busy in the Hills doing girls basketball championships---O’Gorman seems to have an early nod as the team to beat—

     Jim Ohlander—Sioux Falls Stampede shared just 12 games left in the season----before the playoffs—and he admitted this is one of the best talented teams we have seen in Sioux Falls. 

     Diana Patterson—Sanford Career Opportunities shared Sanford Sports Academy opportunities. She helps us understand each Friday—how wide open jobs and careers are for Sanford.

     Our It’s YOUR Business Show is heard live at 1320, 105.1, 107.9—use the KELO App—streaming on line –or just ask Alexa. Norm Anderson posts the podcast—and my job is to schedule the guest—prepare them for the show—ask them questions they audience may want to know—and then write this Blog. Questions for me—feel free to call/text at 605-728-BILL (2455) or email me at bill.zortman@mwcradio.com.