This November, as people across our country celebrate National American Indian Heritage Month, we reflect on the important contributions made by Native Americans to South Dakota and our nation. The rich traditions of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota people are weaved into the fabric of South Dakota’s history, and are... Continue Reading
The passing months have highlighted some of the country’s deep divides and overwhelming challenges. As the end of the year approaches, it is important to pause and give thanks for the many blessings that come with living in this great country. The national celebration of Thanksgiving reminds each of us... Continue Reading
Battles fought in wars around the world, both past and present, have been depicted for many Americans through the lens of a camera. Behind the triumphs and the sadness of the photographs, are the men and women who have so valiantly honored the call to duty in defense of freedom.... Continue Reading
When I walked into the Newseum in Washington, D.C. in July, I was not surprised to see the large gathering of South Dakotans who had come out for a 90th birthday party – although they may have been surprised to see me. The room was filled with a lifetime of... Continue Reading
Throughout our history, young men and women have answered the call of their country to defend liberty and the freedoms we enjoy. They have served within our borders and around the world in the name of democracy and justice. Soon, we will all have the opportunity to exercise one of... Continue Reading
It’s the time of the year when communities across South Dakota commence with their annual homecoming celebrations. From Sisseton to Spearfish, school festivities bring together current students, alumni, and community members to cheer on the hometown team and renew their school spirit. Whether it is the parades, the tailgates, or... Continue Reading
The annual hunting population boom will soon be upon us as friends, family, and visitors make their way to the fields in search of our state bird, the Chinese ring-necked pheasant. In parts of South Dakota, more people will return for the pheasant opener than holidays and it can be... Continue Reading
ObamaCare, which was signed into law in March of 2010, was pitched to the American people as a way to lower the cost of health care. Throughout the 2008 election cycle, candidate Obama repeatedly claimed that his health care bill would cut premiums by an average of $2,500 per family.... Continue Reading
Earlier this month, our country looked back with sadness on the 11th anniversary of the September 11th attacks. Despite the anguish of losing more than 3,000 American lives that day, our country was inspired by the courage and sacrifice of the many men and women who honored the call to... Continue Reading
The record flooding of last year is something that is still fresh in the minds of many South Dakotans. The snowpack and runoff led to high water levels in the region and forced the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to make water management decisions on the Missouri River that greatly... Continue Reading
Harvest season is usually one of the best and busiest times in South Dakota. Normally, on a fall drive through the countryside, the familiar sound of combines harvesting truckload after truckload of corn, soybeans, and other crops marks the end of another productive year. This year, however, the drought-stricken South... Continue Reading
Like many South Dakotans, I am extraordinarily blessed to have a wonderful family built on a foundation of love, respect, trust, and faith. With the guidance of my mom and dad, I learned the importance of education and the value of hard work. My family supported my successes and helped... Continue Reading
