April 12, 2023

Several businesses and individuals have been recognized with annual awards from Downtown Sioux Falls Inc.

2022 Carole Pagones Vitality Award Winner: Terri Schuver, owner of Sticks and Steel

The Carole Pagones Vitality Award recognizes a person, small business or organization that has activated the downtown community in a notable way. 

Her nomination reads: “As one of the East Bank’s first businesses, Terri took a chance when not many others were. During COVID, she was able to pivot and started sharing online videos with her team. It was innovative and strategic at the same time. Terri has been a resource to downtown businesses and prospective businesses for over 20 years.”

2022 Steve Metli Visionary Award Winner: Confluence Landscape Architects

The Steve Metli Visionary Award recognizes the forward-thinkers and innovators who have made a positive impact on the development of downtown.

The nomination reads: “Confluence has been a behind-the-scenes visionary in downtown Sioux Falls through their landscape architecture. From the Downtown River Greenway project to Kirby Dog Park, the team at Confluence has left an indelible impact in downtown Sioux Falls.”

2022 Spirit of Downtown Award Winners: Dick and Sandy Murphy, owners of Mrs. Murphy’s Irish Gifts

The Spirit of Downtown Award honors a person or organization that has a legacy of advocating for downtown, making substantial contributions to our community through their passion for the heart of Sioux Falls.

Their nomination reads: “For 25 years, the Murphys have offered a unique shopping experience downtown with the only Irish gift shop in South Dakota. From the moment a person enters Mrs. Murphy’s Irish Gifts, they are treated like old friends rather than just another customer. Dick and Sandy have set the standard for customer service for downtown. The way they connect with their clientele leaves a lasting impression and elevates people’s overall experience in downtown, which has helped foster a thriving shopping scene here. The Murphys laid roots decades ago that led to the robust retail landscape we now have. The Murphys have led cooperative efforts among other small-business owners to champion downtown, from neighborhood tours to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.”

“Downtown has some great momentum,” said Joe Batcheller, DTSF president. “DTSF plays a big role in making it the heartbeat of Sioux Falls. So do a lot of other people and organizations, like award winners Dick and Sandy Murphy, Terri Schuver and Confluence. It’s important to pause and celebrate downtown’s success and all the incredible people who have helped make this place such a beloved part of the city.”