ABOUT US

Who We Are

Keep It Local™ is a branch of DCH, an advertising and marketing agency proudly based in Sioux Falls. As a locally owned and operated business, we understand the unique challenges that come with running a company in today’s ever-changing landscape.

Staying up-to-date with evolving technology can be daunting, and finding the time and budget to promote your services effectively is even more challenging. That’s where we come in.

Our Mission

We created Keep It Local™ to make marketing more accessible and to help local businesses navigate these hurdles. Our mission is to help businesses thrive by connecting them with the tools, insights, and support they need.

Networking

Marketing Tools

Community Support.

100% ROI Guranteed

Community-Driven

We empower customers to make community-focused decisions, supporting businesses that make a real impact locally.

Lasting Partnerships

We work closely with business owners to co-create content, host events, and offer exclusive deals. This collaboration helps build customer loyalty and supports ongoing success.

Showcasing Unique Offerings:

Our platform features diverse businesses from your community, giving each one the visibility it deserves

A Movement for Local Growth

Backed by DCH’s Proven Success, As part of DCH, we leverage over three decades of experience and proven marketing expertise. DCH has a long history of building successful campaigns that drive results. By partnering with us, your business gets the benefits of our industry knowledge combined with a community-centered approach

We’re not just a marketing platform, Keep It Local™ is a movement. We are a community of like-minded individuals committed to building stronger local economies by supporting businesses and leaders that make our city unique.

Meet the Management Team

Alex Hage

4

Mark Elliott

3

Audrey Kruse

Director of Business Development

Lloyd Uthe

Senior Digital Marketing Strategist

AJ 1

AJ Lemke

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Alex Hage

My first job was at a vineyard, Calico Skies, where I discovered two things: I don’t have the delicate touch for vines, and I’m better suited for the tasting room (turns out wine and people skills pair well). From there, I zigzagged through cornfields at AgReliant Genetics, counting pollination rates, and dabbled in aquaponics on an organic farm retrofitted into an old dairy barn. Yes, it was as quirky as it sounds. Somewhere in there, I realized I liked solving problems, and my passion for local food and sustainable systems took off.

Fast forward to my first full-time gig at DCH—working for my dad. I figured out pretty quickly that marketing was my calling. I get to help clients tackle challenges, share their stories, and create solutions that actually work. Plus, I work with a ridiculously talented team that keeps things interesting.

What drives me? I believe failure only happens when you give up. That mindset keeps me going, whether it’s in work, life, or convincing my kids to eat their vegetables

When I’m not working, I’m wrangling two wild boys (ages 4 and 3), nerding out on podcasts, or unsuccessfully trying to get my wife to watch “Kill Tony.” My motto? Treat everyone the way you’d treat your grandma.

Got a problem to solve? Let’s talk—I’m all about turning headaches into “aha” moments.

MARK ELLIOTT

Mark Elliott is a seasoned marketing strategist with over 25 years of experience in propelling businesses to growth and transformation. His career milestones include expanding Hot Stuff Pizza to 1,500 franchised locations and rebranding Sioux Valley Hospital into the now renowned Sanford Health. He has also spearheaded significant marketing initiatives for Sanford Children’s Hospital, setting new benchmarks for healthcare marketing campaigns.

From a young age, Mark displayed a keen interest in advertising, analyzing commercials during TV breaks. Today, he thrives on identifying clients’ challenges and converting them into opportunities that yield results. His guiding principle is to “Begin with the End in Mind,” ensuring that strategic planning and foresight inform every decision he makes.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Mark finds equilibrium through golf, pickleball, and prayer. His faith, family, and the enduring values instilled by his parents keep him grounded. Mark lives by the mantra, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” whether he is helping a client realize their vision or spending quality time with his children. His daily endeavor is to lead with purpose and passion.

Mark’s commitment is to results, not awards. He believes in the synergy of marketing, finance, and operations to uncover opportunities and create strategies aligned with clients’ goals. His holistic approach is designed to drive success.

 

Audrey J Kruse

 Audrey is a strategist shaped by science, curiosity, and a life that’s taken unexpected turns. After spending her 20s as a nurse in high-acuity specialties—including trauma, surgical, and cardiovascular care—she transitioned into business development and marketing with a unique perspective: one that recognizes the patterns behind human behavior, the nuance of communication, and the value of structured systems.

Now serving as Director of Business Development at DCH, Audrey draws on her background in clinical leadership, quality improvement, and research to approach problems with precision and perspective. Her early passion for design, combined with years of experience in project development and client-facing roles, allows her to move fluidly between creative ideation and structured execution.

Her path into marketing unfolded during a quiet turning point—one that revealed new questions, unexpected strengths, and a deep appreciation for complexity.  She’s driven by psychological insight, curiosity, and a genuine interest in how people and ideas connect. Outside of work, Audrey finds clarity and energy through Muay Thai, yoga, DIY projects and staying active in ways that keep her grounded and growing. 

Lloyd Uthe

When it comes to sales, I believe in keeping it personal. My goal is to make sure every client feels like they’re my top priority. It’s about more than just closing a deal—it’s about building relationships that last.

I’ve spent years working across industries like agriculture and automotive, honing my skills in sales strategy, market analysis, and good old-fashioned customer service. I bring a traditional, customer-first approach to everything I do.

Hard work is at the core of who I am and I bring that mentality to every project I take on.  My weekends? You’ll find me out on the lake, recharging by the campfire or improving my golf swing. 

If you’re looking for someone who takes the time to understand your needs and delivers real value, I’m your guy. Let’s connect—I’m always up for a conversation about how we can grow your business together.

AJ Lemke