From the desk of the Executive Director 

By Cathy Berg, Executive Director

 The Christmas season is soon upon us where families will gather to enjoy one another and to celebrate the true meaning of the season. This time of year is also a very busy time for many businesses as they prepare for private parties and increased patronage, and the upcoming New Year. Therefore, it is always important to make sure your seasonal hires are well versed in the laws of serving alcohol. There are several ways to do this whether it is setting up an in-house class or taking the class online. It is never too late to schedule a private TAM class for your business to insure the holidays go as smooth as possible.

 This is also the time of year where a lot of work is being done in preparation of the upcoming legislative session. Our lobbyist, Matt Krogman, works on your behalf all year round for those issues that may or may not affect the industry and your businesses. This should be an interesting year with the recent election of a new governor and legislators to take the reins in January 2019. There were a total of 27 different bills that were brought forward last year during session. If you have any concerns or anything that you wish to address, this is the time to let us know. With the change in administration in Pierre, it is important that you know who your legislators are in your district now so that you can also voice your concerns face to face. As you are aware of, the industry and regulations are consistently changing, and so we need your help to insure that these issues are addressed and are moving in the right direction. Your membership is valuable to the association and to the industry. You have worked very hard to get where you are today, and we, as an association, want to insure your business continues to thrive in the years ahead and to that next generation.

 DON’T FORGET – SAVE THE DATE - The Annual Meeting/Hog Roast is scheduled for Tuesday, January 15th, 2019 at the Red Rossa Italian Grille in Pierre, SD.   Further details will be mailed out to you right after the first of the year.

 Stay active, voice your concerns, and help us fight the fight! Contact one of our board members or our office. We welcome your input and will assist in any way that we can. You can contact our office at 800-721-1789.

 Wishing you and your family a beautiful and safe holiday season!!

 Cathy Berg, Executive Director