31 under 31 – 2022 Edition
Yankton Thrive featured the area's young leaders here and on our social media channels throughout the month of May, 2022. View the spotlights below!
Lauren is Co-Owner of Mayer signs with her husband, Jamie.
She is also mother to Jordan James Kathol who turned 4 months old at the end of April!
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
Even though Yankton may seem small, it is bursting at the seams with businesses, activities and things to do. Everywhere you go in Yankton there is something different. Axe throwing, boutiques, clothing stores, walking trails, boating, etc.! You are bound to find something you enjoy here in Yankton.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in the area?
My favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton has been to clean up any trash or debris on walking trails. I like to walk on the trails a lot, so I like to see a clean landscape.
What is your favorite recreational opportunity in the area?
My favorite recreational activity to do in Yankton is to go to the lake. Who doesn’t love to boat, get a tan and enjoy the nice weather on the lake? I also love to walk on the walking trails all around Yankton.
Tyler is Manager at Truck Trailer Sales & Service, Inc. in Yankton and he plans to take over the business once his father retires.
He is also a member of the Yankton Volunteer Fire Department.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
The biggest standout for me in the community of Yankton is the river. I never realized how good we had it until I lived somewhere that you had to drive 30 plus minutes to get on a decent body of water. Between floating the river in the summer, taking the jon boat out to catch a limit of catfish, or shoot those late season mallards, we are extremely lucky to have the Missouri River in our back yards.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in the area?
My favorite volunteer opportunity in greater Yankton is being apart of the Yankton Volunteer Fire Department. The comradery within the department is like none other. Everyone is one big family out to help others. We get together weekly, if not daily, and are able to help the community in ways I never could have imagined. I grew up around the department with my cousin, father, uncles, grandpa, and even great grandpa all being members in their time. It feels good to be able to help carry on that tradition and help keep the community safe.
Meghan is an Optician at Vision Care Associates.
Austin is the Vice President of Lance Anderson Construction Inc.
They live in Yankton together with their daughter, Lenni and dog, Bo.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton Area?
We chose to live in Yankton because not only did we both grow up in town but being apart of a family business has led us to plant our roots and raise our family here. We are blessed to have both of our families nearby. Yankton gives off a small town vibe but yet retains larger town amenities.
What is your favorite recreational opportunity in the area?
As a family who loves the outdoors, the community of Yankton and surrounding areas provide many opportunities to stay busy and enjoy all that there is to offer. A few that we love and enjoy are boating on the Missouri, camping, fishing, hiking the trails, and of course, hunting! There’s no doubt that our family will take advantage of these opportunities to create lifelong memories together!
Geoff is a full-time Land Agent with Midwest Land Group. He's licensed in both South Dakota and Nebraska and resides in Yankton with his wife Lexi and their two pups, Yeti and Wes.
Read more about Geoff on his bio at the Midwest Land Group website.
Why did you choose to live in the Yankton area?
I chose to live here in Yankton largely because of the small but strong community feel that it has. Yankton is a clean town that we see fit for growing a family.
What is your favorite recreational option in the area?
We really enjoy all the recreational aspects Yankton has to offer, from enjoying time on the boat down the Missouri River and up on Lewis and Clark Lake, to walking the trails with our pups throughout the Lewis and Clark campground area. These activities are definitely some of our favorite things the Yankton area has to offer.
Trevor is an Ophthalmologist at Willcockson Eye Associates.
Lacey is an Early Childhood Special Education Evaluator at Yankton School District.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
We chose to move back to Yankton because it’s a great place to raise our children. It’s a thriving community. Our parents, siblings, nieces, and nephews live here, and some of our closest friends also have their families here. The school system and healthcare are second to none. The outdoor recreational opportunities are amazing. We also enjoy supporting local small businesses and attending the numerous entertaining community events.
Trace is one of the owners of Backspace Brewing Co.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
After being born and raised here, I chose to move back to Yankton after five years in the Marine Corps because I realized how truly special this community is. After living overseas in Japan for two years, in California for two years, and Florida for a year, it became apparent how much I missed this place. What I love most about this town are all the unique small businesses that we have and the community’s willingness to support them. Also, having a beautiful lake area and a river are definitely huge bonuses.
Jake is the Head of Operations for the Up In Smoke food truck/catering company.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
What brought me to Yankton was my family and what has made me want to stay has been the people that also call this place home.
What do you love most about Yankton?
One of the best things I’ve noticed about Yankton is the overwhelming sense of community here. It seems like there’s always something going on and there’s always a chance for the people in the community to get together!
Tanya is the Service Writer/Office Administrator for C&B Operations.
What do you love most about the community of Yankton?
What I love most about the community of Yankton is all the different opportunities there are. From jobs to things to do for fun, there is something for everybody. I have also met lots of great people since I moved here last year.
Baylie is the Program Coordinator for United Way & Volunteer Services of Greater Yankton.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
There are many things I love about the Yankton community. I moved to Yankton from Minnesota in December of 2020 and was immediately pulled in by the amazing environment and how welcoming the community is to newcomers. I enjoy being a member of the tight knit community where everyone is willing to help someone in need without even thinking about it.
What is your favorite recreational option in the Yankton area?
Yankton is filled with many recreational opportunities. My favorite thing to do in the summer is go camping with my family at the beautiful camping spots here in Yankton. In the winter I love watching some Yankton Bucks and Gazelles Hockey and of course, all year I love to shop at the many local stores Yankton has to offer!
Lane is a Chiropractor and Owner of SWAT Chiropractic and Rehab.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
I chose to return to the Yankton area so I could give back to the community I grew up in. I feel it is my duty to be a leader and positive example for others, just like many of the mentors I had growing up.
As a parent, I want my children to have the opportunities and experiences I had and Yankton offers an abundance of both.
Taylor is the Human Resources Manager at Applied Engineering & The Freeman Company.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
I choose to live in Yankton because it has a small town feel. I am from a small town in Iowa, so I understand and have seen the benefits of people working together and the pride it brings during community events. Yankton to me feels like a bigger version of my small hometown. I am excited to continue getting involved within the community.
What is your favorite recreational option in the Yankton area?
Being new to town, I enjoy checking out the local restaurants, boutiques, and businesses that Yankton has to offer. Yankton in the summertime is my favorite as I love to go to the lake, walk the trails and bridge, boat, and camp.
I remember coming to Yankton when I was young on multiple family camping trips and all the joy and memories we created. Little did I know at the time that Yankton would be the town I would call home today.
Tehl is the sports play-by-play announcer for Mount Marty University on KYNT 102.1,
Host of The Current Morning show on The Current 94.3
& Host of The Country Dirt on Hot Country 93.1.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
I chose to move to Yankton because of the incredible opportunity granted to me at Mount Marty University and Riverfront Broadcasting. For a 23-year-old guy to be given the reigns as the play-by-play voice of a University located in South Dakota, while running multiple radio shows weekdays was simply too great of an opportunity to pass up. There has always been a passion in me for not only covering a sport, but the real people participating in them. I believe in the incredible impact sports can have and feel truly honored to be able to share these stories with Lancer fans. I've been here in Yankton for less than a year but I can't see myself anywhere else!
Johanna is the Director of Alumni & Parent Relations at Mount Marty University
& Anthony works for PwC on the Learning & Development Team.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
We chose to live in the Yankton area because we enjoy the feel of a small community and a slower pace of life. Coming from Washington, D.C., we like the peace that comes from living in Yankton, where we can take a deep breath and live life intentionally.
Zach is the Business Growth Coordinator at Explorers Credit Union in Yankton.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
Yankton is a beautiful area. The river and parks create a peaceful atmosphere that accentuates a growing economy.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
I recently completed my first round as a Junior Achievement teacher at Beadle elementary school. I loved the opportunity to explain financial concepts in a fun way to 2nd graders. I’ve also had the opportunity to participate in litter clean-ups like Keep Yankton Beautiful.
What is your favorite recreational option in the area?
I love the trails and the State Park. I even learned to long-board this past summer by practicing along the river every Saturday.
Samantha is the Office Manager at the Mead Cultural Education Center.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
I love living in Yankton because of its ties to the rich history of our state. Working with the Yankton County Historic Preservation Commission, I get to manage worthwhile projects such as installing new historical markers! I’m proud to live in a community that values history.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
Some of my favorite volunteer opportunities include tournaments at the NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center, and serving as a Board Member with Yankton Area Arts.
Kayla & Zach are Owners of The Open Gate Boutique.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
The Yankton area has always been home for us. When growing our family we knew that we wanted to stay in Yankton to be close to both of our families! Being a new small business in the Meridian District, we have had amazing support from our community. We couldn’t imagine living our dream anywhere else!
What is your favorite recreational option in the area?
Yankton draws so many out of town visitors in the summer to enjoy the Lewis & Clark Lake and Missouri River. We are so lucky to be able to enjoy these amenities any day of the week. In our spare time, you will find us camping, spending time on the beach, or walking along the river or lake on our wonderful walking trails.
Heath is Account Executive, Sports Director, On Air Personality and Assistant Promotions Director at 5 Star Communications (Classic Hits 106.3 FM KVHT & ESPN 101.5FM AM1570 KVTK)
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
For me it's the people. Coming from a farm, it seemed as though my life was set living and working there just like my father. However, in my chance to go out and explore new adventures I came across Yankton. Knowing no one, taking a job that I didn't know where it was going to lead I have found myself in love with those who I have met over the years. The people of Yankton welcomed me into their homes and radios. They welcomed me as a member of the community and they have been the reason I have been so successful. I'm humbled to have run across so many members of this town who care. Listeners, texting or calling, sharing their stories. Interviews with prominent members in the Yankton Community or sharing laughs and memories with the many friends I have made has made Yankton unique and special. Not everywhere you go can feel like home. It's truly those around you that make it home. The Yankton Community, the people, have made this my home forever and I still don't know everyone. I never will, but meeting new people is my favorite part of this place I get to call home everyday!
What is your favorite recreational option in the area?
WAY TOO HARD TO ANSWER THIS! I loveeeeee Yankton recreation!! In fact, you'll find me during the summer out and about EVERY DAY! Hot weekends lead me to the beaches and boating with friends. Nothing better than a hot July day then spending time on the water, or knowing I'll never catch a fish but I just keep on trying. GOLF. Yes I am not great, but you'll see me out at Fox Run at least twice a week. Usually looking frustrated and pretending I'm getting better but I'm not. THE TRAILS! As a man of fitness, running on the treadmill isn't very fun. Peaceful morning sunrises running on the trails as Lewis and Clark Lake are the best. If you have never experienced it, I'd say it's close if not the eighth wonder of the world! Disc Golf!!!! No idea how to play this, but gathering with three or four friends and throwing a disc as hard as a can keep help de-stress and just enjoy being with others. Recreational sports like Volleyball and Soccer are my favorite items to end a long weekend with. During the winter, I try to get out as much as possible, but when I say nothing beats a summer in Yankton, it's true!! And just planning walking around town. One of my parents favorite memories of Yankton remains walking across the Meridian Bridge! Go find somewhere else that offers this much in a town this size and the answer is you won't!
Micayla is the Graphic Design Specialist at Yankton Thrive.
Bryce is a Manufacturing Engineer at Manitou in Yankton.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
We chose to live in Yankton when Bryce was offered a career position at Manitou in the Spring of 2021. We had both recently graduated from the University of North Dakota and were looking to move somewhere new. We liked the location of Yankton and that it wasn’t too far from our families in North Dakota. Plus, it’s warmer here so it was a no-brainer! When I (Micayla) took the Graphic Design position at Yankton Thrive, it was finally official that we would be moving here and we were filled with excitement for our new adventure!
What do you love most about the community of Yankton?
What we love most about Yankton is that there are many different things to do basically any day of the week. There are lakes, the river, golf courses, plenty of walking and hiking trails, and many types of restaurants to choose from. Also, we love that the community is large enough to have typical needs such as grocery stores, gyms, salons, banks, clinics, and a hospital.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
Bryce is a huge history junkie so the opportunities at the Dakota Territorial Museum or Historical Downtown Yankton are definitely in his interest. As far as myself, (Micayla) I am a huge animal lover. I grew up with house pets and a family farm with all kinds of animals, so opportunities at the Heartland Humane Society would be fun and rewarding for me. I (Micayla) have worked with children since I was a teenager, and have enjoyed it immensely, so the Big Friend Little Friend organization would be something I’d be interested in as well.
What is your favorite recreational option in the area?
We are both very “outdoorsy” people so the first things that caught our eye were the Lewis & Clark Lake and Gavins Point Dam. Bryce owns an old boat that we love taking on the water as many times a week as we can in the summer, so this seemed perfect for us.
Mariah is Dealer Partner at Broadway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram;
Dealer at Gavins Point Recreational Center;
General Manager at Lewis & Clark Ford Lincoln;
Property Developer at JMN Properties
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
Growing up, the Yankton area was always our summer and weekend go-to location for fun! We would come up to enjoy the boating at Lewis & Clark Lake, beautiful, scenic walking and biking trails along the river and lake, and the great sledding along Gavins Point Dam in the winter time! As soon as I graduated high school, I moved to the greater Yankton-area full-time and knew I would return again after college to settle down in the area permanently. To me, there is no greater place to live than Yankton!! I love the size of the community with all of its small-town atmosphere combined with great career opportunities.
What are you favorite recreational options in the area?
My family and I thoroughly enjoy camping and boating in the Yankton area. From Memorial Day through Labor day you will usually find us on all evenings and weekends either out on the water at Lewis & Clark Lake or camping at Lewis & Clark State Recreational areas. There are not too many places that you can live that offer such great outdoor activities as Yankton does. We enjoy going for family hikes at Smutty Bear Trail, the Equestrian trails, and the Yankton Riverwalk. I also enjoy kayaking down the Missouri River several times throughout the summer.
Yankton also offers so many fun activities for family that we love to take advantage of with our kids. We have three girls, a 5 y.o., 3 y.o., and 1 week newborn. Our family enjoys the Christmas parade in the Meridian district every year, all of the great Riverboat Days activities, the new water park, the fun events that the Summit Activities Center offers such as private swim lessons and the Easter Egg hunt throughout the parks, playing at the awesome parks in Yankton (Memorial Park and Riverside Park are our favs!), and more. There is a lot to do in the area for kids and young families!
Emily is Co-Owner of Our Little Rascals Boutique located in downtown Yankton.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
One of my favorite volunteer opportunities in Yankton is serving at Restore Church. I do children’s ministry and sing on the worship team. Restore does different things for the community and I love being able to volunteer and help out when I can.
What is your favorite recreational option in the area?
Though we live in Crofton, we spend a lot of time in Yankton and my family loves all the different things to do in the area. We spend a lot of time at the free beach by the dam, my kids are eager for the water park to open up for the season because they loved it last year, and we love the indoor play area at Restore: Kid’s Campus. My kids are always so excited for the parades during holidays and events, and their favorite was when downtown was blocked off for the Halloween celebration last fall! We are so appreciative of all the different places to shop, and things to do in this town and always enjoy the time we spend here, no matter the time of year.
Nick is a Carpenter at Lyons Construction LLC out of Yankton, SD,
Chairperson/Mayor of Gayville, SD,
& Assistant Chief for Gayville Fire & Rescue.
Growing up and living in Gayville, I find that Yankton County is a great place to call home. There are many opportunities or activities for all age groups. Yankton County is a family. We are all from different communities or in different careers and have different backgrounds, but we still come together and support each other.
Hannah is a buyer at Hydro in Yankton, SD.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
My Husband and I chose to make Yankton our home after we both spent our younger years laying down roots and developing a love for this area and the people in it. The area is beautiful, and the people are kind.
What do you love most about Yankton?
Seeing so many dedicate their time and money supporting small businesses, families in need, local sports, and charitable organizations is the thing I love most about this community.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in the area?
The Humane society holds a special place in my heart. We've adopted many animals, and currently have 6 dogs!
What are you favorite recreational options in the area?
In the summer we live in the water, so I'm grateful we are so close to the water for swimming, kayaking, boating, fishing, camping etc. There is something for everyone here! I also love the snow and how beautiful the change of seasons can be.
Paul is a State Trooper with the South Dakota Highway Patrol
& a member of the South Dakota National Guard.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
There are many reasons why I love the Yankton area. One of those is how friendly and supportive the community is. After moving to South Dakota in 2011, it didn’t take me a lot of time to decide that Yankton was the place where I wanted to be.
Yankton offers a lot of resources to grow and succeed. I enjoy working in the Yankton area helping others, and making sure that our community is a safe and better place for everybody to live and to raise their families.
What is your favorite recreational option in the area?
One of my favorite places to visit is the Lewis and Clark Recreation Area along the Missouri River. If you like camping, fishing and being surrounded by nature, it is the place to be.
Sawyer is a Preschool Teacher at Webster Elementary School in Yankton.
What do you love most about the Yankton community / Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
The sense of community in Yankton is unmatched. Everyone I have met has been extremely friendly and gone out of their way to make me feel welcomed, and at home. The way the community comes together to support each other whether it be in times of need, sporting events, or any other circumstance, I am always amazed at the way people come together. What makes Yankton so special is the people that live here!
What is your favorite recreational option in the Yankton area?
Lewis and Clark Lake and the Missouri River offer so much to do. With kayaking, fishing, hiking, bike rides along the river, and more, there are so many opportunities to get outside. The community also does a great job at offering recreational activities for all ages and hobbies, especially during the summer.
Alex is the Owner and an Optometrist at Meridian Eye Care.
What do you love most about Yankton?
Yankton provides such unique opportunities to be involved in a growing community that is passionate about their town. I truly enjoy the overall 'family' feel of greater Yankton - it makes it so easy and fun to be able to develop personal relationships with my patients. I also enjoy supporting the Lancers, being a fellow Mount Marty alum myself!
What are you favorite recreational options in the area?
Seth is a Project Engineer at Hydro in Yankton, SD.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
Born and raised in South Dakota, I came to Yankton after college for a job near my then girlfriend, now wife Ari who is wrapping up her time at USD Sanford. This landed me at Hydro, where I work as a project engineer. What started as just a job near the better half is now looking like a career in aluminum.
What is your favorite recreational option in the area?
My wife and I lived in a camper between town and the lake for a year and a half until we found a decent deal on a house. During that time we explored the walking trails, played disc golf, and fished lake Yankton from our kayak. We then bought a cheap little sailboat and got involved with the Gavin’s Point Yacht Club, learning to sail and making good friends along the way. Sailing the lake and GPYC weekend races have been my favorite recreational opportunity so far.
Michael is an Associate Pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Yankton.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
The people are what I love most about the community. When I first moved here, it immediately felt like one large family. Everyone I met – whether at a store, coffee shop, or brewery – they were all very welcoming and friendly. This is a tight-knit community that also extends warm hospitality to newcomers.
A very close second to the people would have to be the river and lake here. Being that I grew up in Minnesota, I enjoy being in and on water as much as possible. I am looking forward to summer here as I have heard so many amazing things happen during that time – from live music to the Market at the Meridian, and of course hiking, boating, kayaking, and more!
Morgan is the Manager of the C-Store/Kitchen at the Cottonwood and Shipwreck Bar,
& Waitress at Cheers Pizza Plus.
She also makes delicious and healthy shakes & teas at River City Nutrition.
What do you love most about Yankton?
Brady is a Physical Education Teacher at Yankton High School.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
I choose to live in the Yankton area for a few reasons. I love being able to spend time with my family and friends that are still around the Yankton area. I also really value how supportive the Yankton community is as a whole and that it is easy to pursue your dreams and goals.
What do you love most about Yankton?
I love the pace of life and the access we have to many opportunities surrounding us. I have developed a golf addiction over the last few years and really enjoy playing the courses around the area.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
My favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton would be coaching during the many athletic camps that happen throughout the summer. My favorite memories growing up are of the coaches and volunteers giving us the opportunity to improve at our favorite sports and I love being able to give back in that same way.
What is your favorite recreational option in the area?
Golfing has all of my attention at the moment so I’d say my favorite recreational opportunity is playing golf with good friends. I also really enjoy taking my pup Louie around on hikes near the river or across the bridge from time to time.
Paige is a Fifth Grade Teacher at Lincoln Elementary School.
Why do you choose to live in the Yankton area?
I have chosen to live in the Yankton community because of the people, the many beautiful recreation opportunities, and the excellent school district.
What do you love most about Yankton?
One of the things that I love most about the Yankton community is the way that people support one another. Throughout the last two years I have seen first hand how the community has stepped up to serve one another in times of crisis. The school district’s free meals program during the Covid shutdown and following two school years is a great example. Numerous volunteers and organizations came together to make sure that the hundreds of children in our community were fed each day.
What is your favorite recreational option in the area?
My favorite recreation opportunity in Yankton is the many well-kept walking, hiking, and bike paths the city and surrounding area offers. It is a joy to go for a walk in Memorial Park or a hike on the Horse Trails.
Conner is a Quality Engineer at Manitou in Yankton.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
I love all the outdoor entertainment and music in the summertime. Anything from Ribfest to Riverboat Days makes for a very enjoyable summer.
What is your favorite recreational option in the area?
Audrey is the Spanish and World Language Teacher at Yankton Middle School.
What do you love most about the Yankton community?
My favorite thing about the Yankton community is all the locations and events it provides to the public. I’m always enjoying the new activities that are popping up and the beautiful nature that Yankton has to offer. Also, both my husband’s family and my own live close, and I enjoy the ability to be with them.
What is your favorite volunteer opportunity in Yankton?
My favorite volunteer opportunity is the Yankton Area Banquet at the UCC. Every time I volunteer there I feel rejuvenated and so impressed with their operation. It’s full of love and hospitality. Yankton is a wonderful place to be and I feel blessed to live and work here with my husband.