Blog-April 11, 2023—10-11—South Dakota Farmers Union Show

   The monthly South Dakota Farmers Union Show---covered a lot of territory this week-next and thru August.

    In studio---Wayne Soren----and Luke Reindl-----who kept me in line what a lot of what is going on---and they tested the water on what is important and what is just short.

    Great list of guests-----

    Rob Larew---President of the National Farmers Union joined us---setting the stage for the fly-in---from South Dakota Farmers Union Members next week.  We asked what was important to talk to lawmakers---the Executive Branch----and others in DC. The answer was pretty straight----what is needed in South Dakota---and how we can help those farming and ranching get the most help possible.

    Joining the Farmers Union President was Mike Rounds---SD Senator. The Senator works closely with those in agriculture—and it made for a conversation on what the Senator sees---how he can help those flying in----and it goes from the farm bill---to a push as well on ethanol that could help with the 6% cutback that those in the Middle-east have announced.

    Both President Larew---and Senator Rounds---along with our two Farmers Union guest hosts were sharing how important it is to talk to those elected in DC. Throw your heart into it and make a difference.

     Long time farm State Legislator Oren Lesmeister joined us as well. He talked about what he would be pushing with the fly-in----how the legislative session progressed or didn’t finish in 2023.

     Congressman Dusty Johnson---in our part of South Dakota was in Watertown today and Lake Area Tech. He too talked about the fly-in---portions of the farm bill he is working hard with—and perhaps he surprised me on the fact that the kids he wasn’t going to speak to today—didn’t really like all the bickering going on in DC----good stuff---and the kids can identify with someone that is listening—and not just playing politics to be playing politics.

    Jeff Kippley---is a Tax Man in South Dakota—he is also a National Farmers Union VP—we talked about taxes---we talked about Ag---and how we need to keep pushing with the fly-in----and taking care of our kids. Because of the April 18th Tax Filing Date—Jeff will be staying in South Dakota---but you know he’ll be following along---and sharing his thoughts.

   Josh Christiansen---Harrisburg High School Advisor—talked with us about how they have utilized the tools of agriculture—and the kids there love it. FFA---is getting a push with Josh—and he makes sure they understand what the #1 business in South Dakota is. Yip---Agriculture.

    Rocky Forman---Mr. Safety talked about his projects including events beginning next week with special farm bowl---county and state fairs—and visiting schools with a lean towards staying safe.

    We closed the show with Laura Edwards---South Dakota State Climatologist. She denied my rumor that there were 100+ inches of snow in Aberdeen—she put it in the 80’s---but still that is a lot---and we know she is good for anyone that listens to her.

    Our South Dakota Farmers Union Show is about working together---learning together—passing the torch together to the next generation---and bringing in national leaders to listen to the needs of us here in our great state.

    It is the oldest of the Farm Organizations---and we are happy to have them with us for the hour long show each month---and interviews from leaders throughout the rest of the month.

   Listen live at 1320, 105.1, 107.9—use the KELO App—Streaming on line—or just ask Alexa.

   Norm Anderson will have the show available as a podcast by NOON on the day that the show runs live. SD Farmers Union—has it on their website as well. Use these notes as a guide to what is in the show—and where to find it.

    Questions for me---feel free to call/text at 605-728-2455 or email me at bill.zortman@mwcradio.com.