Blog---September 19, 2023—10-11—SD Farmers Union Show

   Each month we bring together leaders of South Dakota Farmers Union----update---check the compass where those are traveling and get a chance to congratulate those of all ages that are making a difference in agriculture.

   This morning National President Rob Larew---and Vice President Jeff Kipley –yes that Jeff Kipley in South Dakota shared the news made with the South Dakota Fly-in last week. We wanted to know the conversations and what was accomplished regardless of whether those on the journey were teens or those hitting 60-70-or 80.

    Obviously lots of talk about the Farm Bill ---just 11 or so days away from a due date. The Pipeline scenario-----and other things that affect us not only in the mid-west but round this country.

     Wayne Soren ---in our studio---talked about the fly-in----the kind of discussions held in DC----coming and going---and what to push for in the future.

     The fly-in comes for many at the harvest time of the year-or just before it---and we wanted to know how does that affect those that can go---and those want to go but just can’t.

     The dedication we heard from our leadership----was amazing---but perhaps even more was those folks making their first trip----and wanting to learn -make a difference and be part o pushing the torch to the next generation.

     Gail Gullickson—Brookings County FSA/USDA helped us understand the help that is there—and what she is doing to be a part of a lot of lives.

      We talked as well with Corey Chicoine—from Elk Point—who was part of the fly-in and with his father have a family farm. Corey was making that first Fly-in----but vowed to keep talking to those he met in DC---as well as pushing to go in future years. He even had words of encouragement for those new farm families----they can be a part of the effort---and pass the torch as well to their next generation.

       Mr. Soren talked about a big event in Mitchell that was going on today. Dale Bednareck—CEO and President of Performance Pet Products---was dedicating I today----state lawmaker Casey Crabtree---will share the event in our Wednesday—It’s YOUR Agri Business Show.

        Helping us throughout the show was Shelby Landmark---new Communications Specialist----SD Farmers Union. She helped collect guests—make sure we were all talking to each other-and understood the order that was planned.

        Quiz Bowl team from Platte Geddes captured the event at the SD State Fair---joining us to talk about it was Tristen Petrik----we talked safety----on the farm----going to and from---and why it is important that we see the need for safety---and spread the word. Congratulations to his team----and all of those working to be safer in their community.

       The old “Man in Motion”-Rocky Foreman---joined us on SAFETY WEEK. Rocky understands that what he does on the road to different schools and events---with fairs----and his mannerisms make it well understood—that safety can be just one little gesture between a tragedy---and staying alive. Rocky and I have worked together for a number of years---I always appreciate what he does—and how he does it.

       Karla Hofhenke –made sure we were all on the right circle for the show. I appreciate her---and she knows if there is anything I can do for Farmers Union----I’m there to make a difference too.

       With each fly-in, each convention---each phone call----I get more and more admiration for this organization. We all care----and hopefully they have learned that about me---and I know I have learned that about them.

        Listen live to our SD Farmers Union Show ---generally on a Tuesday---generally the 2ndTuesday-----but it can be subject to change.

        Farmers Union posts the live show----and this blog---to share what is in the show—and where to find it.

        For those out there that have story lines---I’m not hard to find----bil.zortman@mwcradio.com or feel free to call 605-728-BILL.