Blog-April 9, 2024—10-11—South Dakata  Farmers Union Show
   The South Dakota Farmers Union Show—first one since we returned from the National Farmers Union Convention in Scottsdale, Arizona---did some looking back at that big event---thru the eyes of President Doug Sombke—as well as a discussion on meeting the Family of the Month---the Holan Family from Pukwana.

    And that was just the start.

   Shelby Landmark---did the tracking for the guests----I got to add a little much older approach to all that was seen—and questions we asked.

    Doug said this probably was his 25th National Convention----and quite frankly everybody knows President Sombke---and want to learn from him.

    The hope was that with the leadership of VP Jeff Kipley---this organization is in good hands---not afraid to pass the torch---to several generations getting ready to take the wheel in the future.

     Fairness in Agriculture was a theme----and family friendliness is always important. 40-50 or so from South Dakota attended—if there was more than that—my Iowa education wouldn’t let me count beyond that.

     I had the chance to interview Mike Holan---as the Farmers Union---Family of the month. My good friend Lura Roti---shared the notes---all I had to do was pick and choose—as we talked about the calving marks the first of many seasons. Once he calves are on the ground-it will be planting season and then hunting season. 

     The entire family chips in---but it is Graden---who is pushing along to be the hands that really can make a difference in the future. He is planning to attend Mitchell Technical College and study agronomy---and while the family farm Is important to him right now—his focus is on school and athletics—he plays football, basketball as well as spring and summer baseball. And if he wants to go fishing—he does---but so does Mike. As they put it—with our farm so close to the river---why not enjoy the Missouri River. 

      Mike’s dad Dennis died in 2005 when he was only 59---just 10 days after Mike and Linda Marie were married. Such is the life and the change that can happen in our lives. 

      Special family---and the are moving along to get ready to care for the farm place in the future.

       Great story—and we did name Mike and son Graden---our Little Country Town Family. Perfect for what the award is about---and the words—my dad wrote ---about “My Little Country Town.” He would have been proud of Mike and Graden---just what he was thinking of 70 or so years ago.

    Josh Christianson—Harrisburg FFA –talked about prepping for the FFA Quiz Bowl in Brookings. But he found out---he was a little late this year and the slots seem to be filled. Harrisburg was named State Champions in March of 2024.

     Corbitt Wall—Commercial Cattle Manager and livestock market analyst for DV Auction in Amarillo Texas talked to us about the current cattle markets—what they are seeing for trends going into late spring and early summer. Right now in the Texas Panhandle—about 90 from Amarillo—Farwell has a beef site that has been affected by the Avian Flu----these guys are watching—and they’ll keep us posed as well.

     Aerial Eitreim Senior Advisory Council advised us on the Junior Advisory Council-assistance they will give  at State Camp, State Convention—and with the promotion of education programs. 

     Mitch Richter---old reliable for Farmers Union Members during the legislative session—gave us a look back---a look inside and what was the core for many during the South Dakota Legislative Session. Mitch helped us in so many ways---and we appreciate what he does along with other Farm Reporters during the Session. Meeting once a week to talk about the legislation—the talks and what was to come. I like that---and anybody in agriculture can approve of what he is doing –discussions and understanding. Thanks Mitch.

     Laura Edwards—SD State Climatologist joined us to talk about the planting outlook---how wet is it---what is she seeing for temperatures----and what about spring showers becoming thundershowers? She is always on track and we appreciate all she is doing.

     We closed the show with Rocky Forman---Mr. Safety in South Dakota----yes he to does the FFA Quiz Bowl---set for Dacotah Bank Center on April 19th. I’ll see him for the State Fair in Huron later this summer.

      Our South Dakota Farmers Union Show is available live at 1320, 105.1, 107.9---use the KELO App—Streaming on line ---or just ask Alexa.

      Norm Anderson will post the podcast generally within 24 hours of the live show.

      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 (BILL) or email me at bill.zortman@mwcradio.com.