Honoring our veterans

On Sept. 11 we met at the Veterans Home in Hot Springs, and took 32 veterans on the ride of their lives!

We had side-by-sides in two- four-, and six-seat configurations, but when we came up one vehicle short, Adventure Rentals from Custer generously stepped up and loaned us a six-seater for the day. That kind of generosity made it possible for every veteran to have a seat.

I watched as veterans traded their walkers, oxygen tanks and wheelchairs for a front-row seat to an adventure none of us will soon forget. Drivers came from as far away as Yankton, and every one of them volunteered their time. They were just as excited as their passengers to hit the “dusty” road — literally!

Together, we traveled more than 40 miles before returning to the veterans home, where a delicious lunch was waiting for everyone.

These rides are held twice a year, and if you ever have the opportunity to participate, I highly recommend it. The smiles, laughter and memories make it an experience you won’t forget.

Staying Busy Across District 30

As we head toward the general election, our schedules always seem to heat up. I’ve had the opportunity to attend a number of workshops, informational roundtables and community meetings throughout the district.

Among them were meetings with Dakota Gold in Deadwood and Elevate Rapid City, as well as a visit to the Edgemont Senior Center. In Edgemont, I met with the mayor, board members, residents and the new vendor to discuss new contracts and the future of local services.

I also attended Fall River County Commission meetings as commissioners reviewed the findings of the legislative audit that began more than a year ago. Staying informed and listening directly to the people who live and work in our communities is an important part of representing District 30.

Next up is the Fall River GOP Lincoln Day Dinner. Sadly, I won’t be able to attend this year because I will be in Taiwan.

Representing South Dakota in Taiwan

As a member of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee (ALEC) and the South Dakota State Chair of ALEC, I have been invited to join a legislative delegation traveling to Taiwan.

The delegation includes 11 legislators from five Midwestern states. The trip is sponsored by the Taiwanese government, at no cost to South Dakota taxpayers.

Our goal is to discuss current and future trade opportunities between Taiwan and our states, with a particular focus on South Dakota agriculture. Topics will include exports such as soybeans, beef, pork and potentially ethanol.

I’m looking forward to learning more about these opportunities and bringing that information home to South Dakota.

I’ll share a full report after I return!