Opinion

The section through North and South Dakota is the youngest valley of any of the large streams of the world, dating from the great glacier which pushed the stream out of the James River valley and caused it to carve out a new course.

Every year, I am always blown away by the decorations at the South Dakota State Capitol. Volunteers decorate dozens of trees and decorate the whole Capitol in a theme. This year, the theme is “Through a Child’s Eyes,” and everything is larger than life to make you feel like a little kid again. If you’ve never experienced Christmas at the Capitol, I would encourage you to do so before the season is over – the last day to see the trees is December 26.

After the Bronco fundraiser, a matching pledge challenge up to $200,000 was issued, beginning July 9. Since that time, various fundraisers have been held, and the total amount of money toward the matching funds is currently at $28,298.40.

Kevin Robling is the Cabinet Secretary for the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks. The noise of wingbeats above the cattails creates instant excitement for my two yellow labs.

The entire view of the Spotted Tail camp near the White River was a pleasant scene of primitive life on the Dakota plains in the 1870’s. Here was a community ruled by chiefs and sub-chiefs who had gained their positions by their bravery in battle and discretion in their council of others. Their positions were maintained partly by their prowess and partly by a certain acquiescence in the wishes of the majority.

Hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving! We just had grandkids moving back from Florida, where the cost of living was much higher. They survived the hurricanes but in the coastal areas of this country, there is no affordable flood or fire insurance.

As the holiday season approaches, I want to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable achievements and shared experiences that have made this school year so special. This time of year offers us a chance to pause, express gratitude, and look ahead with hope and optimism.

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley announced that the Anti-Robocall Multistate Litigation Task Force has sent warning letters to four voice service providers who are suspected of transmitting illegal robocalls on their networks on behalf of one or more of their customers.

While he was visiting the Whetstone Agency, Spotted Tail was approached on the important subject of settling down and cultivating the soil. He had been offered plenty of ground, a good log home, and all the farming implements that he wanted and needed.

Our state motto is “Under God, the People Rule.” During my time as Governor, I have always kept my budget proposals focused on our people, not government programs. Every dollar that we invest – every policy that we support – should be focused on our people, on making them safer, stronger, and freer. Our budgets should always focus on our core priorities. That is what I have done in my first six years as governor, and that is what South Dakota will continue to do.