Blog---February 11, 2025—10-11—SD Farmers Union Show

   Once a month our It’s YOUR Business Show shares the hour with South Dakota Farmers Union. It’s a special show---and we talk with Farmers Union Leadership—and those that make up the rank and file membership.

    Some tough times for Farmers----and there was a large swath to cover. 

    South Dakota Farmers Union President Doug Sombke opened the door as Rocky Foreman and I talked about key issues hitting farmers. Tariffs—whether it be for Canada or Mexico. US Aid, the farm bill, and some tough times for families. As Doug was talking he shared at the end of it—that it was stuff he had holed up for 30 years. He takes his leadership seriously----as do the other leaders we had on the show.

    Right behind was Rob Larew—National Farmers Union President—it was a week ago that President Larew shared the concerns that he and National Farm Bureau President Zippy Duval had. It was pointed directly at the President---and trade concerns, and much like President Sombke ---even help from South Dakotans in DC---Noem, Thune, Rounds, and Dusty. They both expected more---but are yet to get it.

     National Conventions are coming up---the Farmers Union is headed for Oklahoma City----and you can bet they’ll work to swing things the best way they can.

      We heard from Jeff Kippley---SD and National Farmers Union VP---he had his thoughts---and he has been attending conventions all over the country. They are working the rank and file----and no doubt needs some prayers—and lots of hope. 

       We wanted to talk to Mitch Richter—SD Farmers Union rep in the capital—but a last minute meeting kept him from joining us.

       Shannon Duxbury---took thru the USDA Label for Duxbury Beef and Sale Beef off the Farm. Rocky was familiar with what they do and how they do it. Interesting process---and we can hope that works well for our residents.

       Billie Sutton joined us--- he does leadership training---and helps people so very much----we do want people to become a part of the leadership training---Sutton is known for all he has done after a rodeo accident caused him grief and injury. Since then he has looked to help others. It has been awhile since we have interviewed him but his story leaves us in awe—what he went thru and those he is trying to help. There should be more looking to Mr.Sutton for leadership and for inspiration.

       Justin Glisin—the Iowa State Climatologist gave us an update this morning on the weather—what to expect---and where we are headed.

       Our South Dakota Farmers Union Show---like the South Dakota Farm Bureau Show on the 4th Tuesday of the month—gives us a chance to work with the two leading farm organizations in South Dakota. Their memberships are for the interests of those on the farms. They do approach things a little different –but they are dedicated to their members and those in agriculture. When we can –and it isn’t often we like to have their representatives on the air telling stories. We work with both---and in them we trust our agriculture interests.

        Listen live to the show at 1320, 105.1, 107.9---use the KELO App—Streaming on line or just ask Alexa. Norm Anderson posts the podcast---and my job is to put the show together, interview the guests, and write the blog. Questions for me—feel free to call/text at 605-728-BILL---or email me at bill.zortman@mwcraido.com.