Sioux Falls Sd Hotels Holiday Inn

Commerce official: Economic rebound lies within heartland

The Great Plains International Trade Association gave awards during the forum's lunch Wednesday:
"Up and Coming Exporting Business of the Year": Sioux Steel Co., Sioux Falls
"The Fire in the Belly - Rod Galland Outstanding Exporter of the Year Memorial": Lance Weaver, Lloyd's Systems, Rapid City.
È Also on Wednesday, Daktronics of Brookings received the U.S. Department of Commerce's Export Achievement Certificate, which recognizes businesses that have benefited from U.S. Commercial Service export assistance to make their first export sale or expand to new foreign markets.

Exporting American-made products is the key to economic success and job creation, and it must start in South Dakota and rural America, a federal trade official said Wednesday at the South Dakota Great Plains International Trade Association Export Forum.

South Dakota's exports are growing at a faster rate than the rest of the country, but the state can do better, Suresh Kumar said in his keynote address.

Kumar is assistant secretary of commerce for trade promotion and director general for the U.S. & Foreign Commercial Service at the U.S. Department of Commerce.

"This is the heartland for agriculture. You have much going for you," Kumar said, adding that collaboration is key. "Our rural communities, businesses and farmers are central to the health and prosperity of our nation."

In the first six months of this year, South Dakota's exports grew 23 percent, and the nation's grew 18 percent.

In 2010 over 2009, South Dakota's exports grew 25 percent and the nation's grew 17 percent, he said. Last year, South Dakota companies exported $1.3 billion in finished goods.

"Sometimes we think international is this magical, mystical path," he said. "There is a world of opportunity despite the gloom we hear about in Europe and the challenges we face."

About 65 people registered for the forum, which continues today at the Holiday Inn-City Centre, said Rock Nelson, executive director of the Great Plains International Trade Association. It includes speakers and breakout sessions that cover import and export issues.

Sioux Falls Hotel Reservations

Sometimes a destination is about the attractions, the flash or the hype. Other times it’s about the quiet beauty, a serene lake, a breathtaking sunset or majestic mountains. It just so happens that Sioux Falls has both assets. There is incredible natural beauty that runs throughout South Dakota, making it a terrific place to visit if you desire a place where the landscape will leave you in awe. It’s also the perfect place to visit if you don’t quite want to stay in a secluded log cabin.

There is a body of water that winds through the city of Sioux Falls. It’s called the Big Sioux River, but to the Lakota Sioux it was known as “Laughing Waters. It cascades through Falls Park creating beautiful and powerful falls that visitors can view from the park or a five-story observation tower. But Falls Park has more than just views. Falls Park also marks the beginning of the Big Sioux Recreation Trail and Greenway, a 16-mile walking, jogging and biking trail that loops around the city. So you can get a little exercise while taking in the fresh air and beauty that surrounds you.

When you make your hotel reservations in Sioux Falls you’ll have trouble taking your eyes off the skyline. Sioux Falls has scenic vistas perfected. Incredible rock structures and a horizon that stretches forever is just part of this city’s charm. Take a walk in Falls Park and marvel at the force of nature. Or perhaps you want something a little more entertaining.

Meander around the Downtown Historic District and take in some live music or maybe an outdoor movie during the summer. Do a little wine tasting or visit the sculpture walk. Sioux Falls has several fine dining experiences awaiting you. From a designer cup of coffee at a sidewalk coffee shop to a perfectly tender steak, Sioux Falls has plenty to offer food lovers. If you don’t want to walk around taking in the downtown sites, sounds and tastes, you can even take a pedicab around town or a horse and carriage ride if you prefer.

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