Who says there isn't anything going on in South Dakota?

By Gordon Garnos

AT ISSUE: The cry is often heard, "Nothing ever happens in South Dakota." Those who feel that way just don't know what they are talking about. If those ostriches would just pull their heads out of the sand once in a while, they would soon learn what is going on. The tragic part of that idea is those same ostriches don't read. In reality South Dakota is a very busy state.

SOUTH DAKOTA IS so fortunate in having the initiative and referendum as state law. Both were born and are products of the state's progressive movement of many years ago. They give a power to the people that many states don't have. They allow the people to make laws and laws unfavorable to the people can be referred to a vote for their approval or disapproval.

Saying that, the ballot in the General Election this November is going to be rather busy. While I have already discussed a couple of the ballot issues they are only two of seven that will be appearing on this fall's ballot.

Unfortunately, there are a couple of ballot issues that are loaded with dynamite. As the time gets closer we will be thoroughly examining all of them. In the meantime, read carefully what they will do, or won't do.

Speaking of elections, it is extremely interesting, at least at this point, that South Dakota could well become the pivotal point in deciding the close Democratic primary race for President of these United States between Mrs. Clinton and Obama. The race is so close by the time the primary gets to South Dakota the final tally of delegate votes could be the deciding factor.

BUT THE ELECTIONS come later this year. There is currently a lot happening now around the state.

The folks in Union County have a major zoning election coming up which will help settle the question as to whether or not an oil refinery will be constructed there. Not only is this a major decision for the Union County folks, but the outcome is extremely important to all of South Dakota.

It is interesting to note that the Dakota Wesleyan University at Mitchell recently conducted a couple of polls. The results of the first one showed 69 percent of South Dakotans supported the refinery and 31 percent opposed it. Tied to this is the pipeline issue. Sixty six percent supported the construction of the TransCanda Keystone Pipeline in eastern South Dakota and 34 percent opposed it.

Also, there is now an attempt by the Federal Reserve and other regulators to put the squeeze on credit card operations, which there are several in the state. Needless to say, they have created thousands of jobs for South Dakotans from Sioux Falls to Spearfish. Also, needless to say, there are such operations across the country that have so abused their customers that the Federal Reserve, etc., are looking at them with a jaundiced eye. And, needless to say, it is about time. That goes for these pay day loan operations as well, no matter what some bankers may think.

ANOTHER ISSUE raising its ugly head right now are the ethanol battles. First, there's the question about ethanol raising the price of food and secondly, Governor Rounds attempting to tax correctly the product at the blender pumps popping up around the state. I don't know whether he is right or the Democrat legislators who are taking his tax adjustment on accusing him of sidestepping the legislative process. This isn't much of a prediction but my money is on that both issues will continue to grow this summer. The results of both could affect all of us.

South Dakota's tourism industry is looking hard at what the increased gasoline prices are going to do to it this summer. If you are a pessimist I suppose you could say millions of dollars will be lost this summer to the state because of the gas prices. On the other hand, an idea for South Dakotans, that instead of heading out of state for your vacation, try taking a look at what South Dakota has to offer. You will be absolutely surprised at what you will see. Our state has so many hidden treasures I can't begin to name all of them. So, take a look around. You will be amazed at what is waiting for you....


Gordon Garnos was long-time editor of the Watertown Public Opinion and recently retired after 39 years with that newspaper. Garnos, a lifelong resident of South Dakota except for his military service in the U.S. Air Force, was born and raised in Presho.