Blog---June 24, 2025—9-10---It’s Your Business

   Our It’s YOUR Business Show---continued our march towards on the July 1st date when the Water Safety Laws change. We know that it will be Lake Madison---and we know the legislature passed it as a statewide change----and we can only hope that other lakes will be following what will be the state law in South Dakota.

   Larry Kotten—has been the truck driver on this journey---and today joining us was Emily Garrett-mother of Emmy’s favorite friend.

   The discussion centered around personal feelings-and yes there were tears as we talked about what happened on the Waters of Lake Madison---roughly 2 years ago.

    Emmy’s died when hit by a fast moving water vehicle. Since that time the State Legislature---led by Casey Crabtree and others passed regulations that up-the-age to what other surrounding states have had for a long time.

    We have been amazed at the outpouring from friends, family, lawmakers and people all over South Dakota—about never letting this happen again.

    Training has been taken place in encouraging numbers. We know that we have been asking the questions, featuring families, friends, and yes businesses that wanted to see that we don’t ever lose a 12 year old girl with this kind of accident in the future.

     For the last two weeks---Larry Kotten---Luke Fortney-Owner of Hillside Resort---and others have been looking for a way to count down to July 1st—when the law goes into effect. Lawmaker Crabtree and others have said that they wanting not only Lake Madison but other water sites to follow the law. There have been a lot of tears shed---including me as the host----we want South Dakota to catch up with surrounding states on their safety regulations. There has been a lot of training occurring---and as part of our broadcasts---Nyberg Ace and Hillside Resort---have been giving away $25 gift cards. Ideas have included menu items like spaghetti, steak, hamburger, ice cream dishes and food that Emmy always enjoyed.

     The July 1st date is around the time of year the accident happened—and is close to our Independence Day.

     Our commitment to the project will run from July 1st and 2nd—leading up to the Holiday. And yes we will continue to follow along—and see what boaters---will do----how about organizations—will they keep as the law says—statewide. It’s about lives---it’s about safety---and It’s YOUR Business was happy to be able to help and provide gift cards to those with suggestions on food that could be served at Hillside Resort.

     Our Show was heard live at 1320, 105.1, 107.9---some used the KELO App---Streaming on line—or just ask Alexa. Norm Anderson posted the podcast of the show—my show was to work with the leaders of this project—help welcome other guests---and set a tone that changes South Dakota---for what we hope is months and years to come.

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