Blog—March 18, 2025—9-10—Leader of the Band Show

  Our Leader of the Band Show---really took advantage of a topic that has a lot of us talking---The Legislative Session and Governor Rhoden’s Open for Opportunity Tour that started Monday at the South Dakota Military Alliance.

  This morning---Scott Lawrence –with his guests—took us thru the legislative session—the Governor and Lt Governor’s Monday event---giving thoughts on where we are hopefully getting somewhere as we go down the road.

   With Larry Rhoden and Tony Venhuizen---sharing thoughts on the 2025 Legislature work—even with a change of Governor’s along the way---we were able to understand what was accomplishment—what was missed---and what still needs work.

   Lt Governor Venhuizen was put into play with Governor Noem accepted a Presidential position----Mr. Rhoden—long-time leader as Lt Governor became Governor—and has gotten some “we’re glad you’re here’s” with the style he has and the things that were accomplished. They have made a good team—and while many of the new faces in the Legislature—perhaps didn’t quite understand what they were working with----had to grow up quickly. South Dakota for the 2nd year in a row won the National “Sterling Silver Cup” for economic development---

   The hour long show include the Lt Governor, Dean Karsky---Minnehaha County Leader, Mitch Rave—VP Public Policy for the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber---and Casey Crabtree one of those highly visible in the Senate.

    The Leader of the Band—Scott Lawrence knew just the right names and numbers to pick for this show. We heard from the leaders that the work accomplished by the legislature didn’t deserve an A or B---one put it as a C- or D---the other (Mr. Casey) gave them an F.

    Prisons—property Tax----and pipelines were bounced around. The 3 p-s had many wondering where we go from here. Some pointing fingers as those that were first year law-makers—

    New faces---made a difference---not taking advantage of airport dollars certainly was not in Sioux Falls or Rapid City favor-----eminent domain---not two good words that go together. Airports and Data Centers----part of the discussion.

    Getting these leaders today with Mr. Lawrence made for an interesting show ---and makes us wonder where we are going with work still to be done by lawmakers.

    Surprisingly there were discussions about new lawmakers---not understanding—and for the most part needing a little schooling about what needs done and how you get it done. 

     All had their say in this hour long show---high marks for the Governor’s Open for Opportunity Tour---with a number of communities being visited today. 

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

     Norm Anderson will post the Podcast to the show---my job is to work to welcome or schedule the guests---help Scott Lawrence host the show----and then write the blog---sharing what was in the show—and what you can look for. Use your own discretion as to your take---but know it was a well planned and discussed set of opportunities. Feel free to call me at 605-728-2455 (BILL) or email me at bill.zortman@mwcradio.com.