An American Celebration

On July 4, 1930, famous American sculptor Gutzon Borglum’s 60-foot sculpture of George Washington at Mount Rushmore was unveiled to the public and dedicated. Later, Washington would be joined by Presidents Lincoln, Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt. Washington led America through her struggle for independence, Jefferson helped mold the young democracy,... Continue Reading

A Father’s Example

Albert Schweitzer once said, “Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing.” His words ring more true today than they ever have. And nowhere is the power of example more impactful than with dads. As fathers, we have the opportunity to shape the character... Continue Reading

Growing National Debt Reaches Record Level

This past week, America witnessed the national debt reach $13 trillion for the first time in our nation’s history. This staggering figure means that every person living in the United States, no matter how old or young, currently owes approximately $42,000 as their share of the nation’s debt. Despite this... Continue Reading

Staying Safe This Summer on South Dakota’s Highways

Now that warm summer weather has arrived in South Dakota, many of us will be spending more time on the roads. Whether it is for work, visiting family and friends, or simply getting around town, South Dakotans will take to the highways, and as always, safety must be a top... Continue Reading

Cost of Health Care Bill More Than Advertised

When President Obama and Congressional Democrats were trying to sell a skeptical American public on their health care overhaul bill, they frequently claimed that their proposals would cut health care costs and reduce our exploding national debt. There was plenty of evidence to the contrary at the time, but now... Continue Reading

Pausing to Remember Memorial Day’s Meaning

Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, and I hope that we get a beautiful, warm weekend across the state. Throughout South Dakota and across the nation, people will gather for barbecues and picnics with family and friends, as well we should. During our celebration, however, we must not... Continue Reading

Taxpayers on the Hook for Growing Problem

The Senate continues to debate a bill that would restructure the way the federal government regulates our nation’s financial sector, and it is clear from the events of the last two years that smart changes are necessary. Unfortunately, the Senate recently missed an opportunity to address an underlying cause of... Continue Reading

South Dakota an Example of Business-Friendly Climate

There are many reasons why South Dakota is a great place to live. Friendly people, strong communities, and many opportunities for recreation are just some of the reasons we choose to call South Dakota home, but a reason that may be overlooked sometimes is our state’s way of doing business.... Continue Reading

Milestones and Memories

For lots of South Dakota families, including ours, May is graduation season. It’s a season of milestones and memories. If there is any one image that stands out in my mind this graduation season, it’s of a bouncing red ponytail. I first became acquainted with it somewhere in my daughter’s... Continue Reading

South Dakota’s Special Mothers Touch Our Lives

All of us have special people in our lives who have guided us, loved us, and made us into the individuals we become. For many of us, no one person does more for us than our mothers. As Mother’s Day approaches, we are once again reminded of how much our... Continue Reading

History Reminds Us of Nature’s Power

South Dakota’s farmers deserve to take considerable pride in the fact that they are able to coax such abundant yields out of land that can appropriately be described as temperamental. Harsh winters, periodic droughts, flooding, and other challenges create uncertainty, but the resilience of our state’s agricultural producers leads to... Continue Reading

Conservation Programs Help Strengthen South Dakota Farms and Businesses

Spring has arrived in South Dakota, and we are once again reminded of how critical thriving farms are to our state. South Dakota farmers and ranchers work hard to maintain their lands, knowing that proper land management increases the likelihood of future success. Through conservation and smart land management, South... Continue Reading