August is here and we are gearing up for fall ....back to school, final summer vacations, …last days on the boat!  SME is gearing up too!

Fall represents philanthropy and fun for SME!  One of our largest events, the SME Youth Benefit Auction, is held each fall.    I would encourage all membership to participate, at some level, in this great event!   This Auction is our organization's major fundraising event for Youth Business Adventure and SME College Scholarships. Last year we awarded YBA with a check for over $16,000 as a result of the efforts of this event.   We encourage each of you to donate items/packages, participate in the wine raffle and join us for a fun filled evening.   The date is September 23^rd and includes dinner, the auction and entertainment by Reza the Illusionist.    Wow, what an evening!

In the full swing is our new Board leadership.    We welcome Tom Johnson from Karl’s TV; Cheryl Dodd

 from US Bank; Dean Karsky from Dean Karsky Insurance; Cindy Elifrits Peterson from Maximizing Excellence and George Roberts from Simplified Wealth Management of SD.   SME is blessed with strong, innovative leadership!

And on behalf of SME, I offer thanks to Anita Wetch and Rob Sevold, as they leave the Board.

Also important is the new membership within SME.   Welcome Travis Rhoades, owner of Web Concentrate; Jamie Smeins, Manager of TownePlace Suites by Marriott; Ryan Harvey, Agency Field Consultant of State Farm Insurance; Mary Hitzemann, Executive Director of FaceIT TOGETHER Sioux Falls; Joel Larson, Director of Sales for Best Western Ramkota Hotel; Jill Melchert, Owner Jill Melchert Insurance and Randy Derheim, Partner in Pinnacle Hospitality (dba Tre, Callaways and Foleys); as new members approved by the board at the end of July. 

Yes fall is approaching.....and SME has so much on tap!

See you at the GOLF JAM & Business Fun Tour Tuesday, August 16th.

Elizabeth Mendelson