We just finished our annual legislative reception for the 100th Legislative Session and conducted our 2025 Winter Board meeting on February 10th and 11th. I would like to thank all the legislators that stopped by for ice cream and hors d’oeuvres. I feel like we had a particularly good turnout considering the freezing weather and other events they could attend. I would also like to thank Governor Larry Rhoden and Lieutenant Governor Tony Venhuizen for stopping as well and taking pictures with some of us. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet the legislators and tell them our story and promote the trucking industry. One last note of gratitude, I would like to thank the South Dakota Road Team for being at the Capitol and the board meeting, giving their time and promoting the trucking industry to the South Dakota legislature.
In our Winter Board meeting, we discussed the legislative agenda Christine has been working on in Pierre. We are looking to gain traction in transparency of third-party litigation and supporting an E-title bill on the auto dealers’ side of things. Christine has been doing a fantastic job on our behalf. We also went over our association’s financial health, and it is trending in the right direction due to the hard work of Christine and the staff.
Our next meeting will be held on May 8th and 9th along with the Cliff Tjaden Fishing Event. Hope to see you all there.
Safe travels, Anders Trucking dispatch@anderstrucking.com
Welcome to Our Newest Member
Central Insure
Mataya Naber
4900 S. Western Avenue
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
Phone: 605-607-6152
Fax: 605-338-0155
Email: mnaber@centralinsure.com Website: www.centralinsure.com Insurance/Employee Benefit Sales & Service
JUSTIN LARSON (605) 224-1611
PIERRE, SD
KURT SWANSON (605) 224-1611
PIERRE, SD
TACHA ARTZ (605) 737-7865
RAPID CITY, SD
JORDAN GAU (605) 996-4698
MITCHELL, SD NICK BACKLUND (605) 996-4698
MITCHELL, SD
GREG BALDWIN (605) 336-2795 SIOUX FALLS, SD
WE KNOW TRANSPORTATION
RUSS STOUGH (605) 336-4444
SIOUX FALLS, SD
Acrisure Truck Group consultants are experts in the coverage of all size trucks and farm equipment, so we know the risks and liabilities to make sure you are fully covered. We have four locations in South Dakota to serve you and your truck insurance needs—Pierre, Mitchell, Rapid City and Sioux Falls.
SDTA STAFF
Christine Vinatieri-Erickson President christine@southdakotatrucking.com
Michelle Wells Member Manager michelle@southdakotatrucking.com
Right now, I feel like I’m in The Matrix, dodging bullets left and right. We’re more than halfway through the legislative session, and this one has been different. Bills are being held up, creating a bottleneck as we near the finish line. But as the saying goes, this is how the sausage is made. I love the process and the challenge of driving change.
At SDTA, our focus has been on tort reform bills. We know that nuclear verdicts are impacting our trucking partners across the country. Patchwork laws in different states have created an environment where some are chasing accidents with massive lawsuits. While this isn’t a major issue in South Dakota yet, we’re working to ensure it never becomes one. One accident shouldn’t put a company out of business. That’s why SB 171 is critical it establishes transparency in third-party litigation. Check out page 11 for our key talking points on what this bill accomplishes.
Last week, we hosted our SDTA Winter Board Meeting along with the joint legislative social with SDADA. The turnout was incredible, with many legislators in attendance, along with Governor Larry Rhoden, Lt. Governor Tony Venhuizen, and Attorney General Jackley. These face-to-face conversations are invaluable in sharing our industry impact right in the backyards of their legislative districts.
Looking ahead, we’ve got our sights set on May 17, 2025, the date for the South Dakota Truck Driving Championships! This is our chance to celebrate the men and women behind the wheel who keep our economy moving. Planning is already underway with a fantastic team of volunteers, so stay tuned for details on how to sign up, volunteer, or become a sponsor.
Stay curious,
Christine Vinatieri-Erickson
DavidSchrier
David Schrier, Trimac Transportation, Rapid City, SD, was selected as the February 2025 Driver of the Month by the South Dakota Safety Management Council.
David has an extensive background with over 37 years of experience in the trucking industry. He is a true professional who has driven more than 4 million accident-free miles. David began his career hauling for Fischer Beverages and has since transported a wide range of loads, including cattle, logging materials, flatbeds, and chemical trailers carrying acid to oil fields. David is a military veteran and has worked for the U.S. government, transporting bombs and weapons, including nuclear materials. Throughout his career, he has conducted all of these tasks without any incidents.
Other drivers often seek David’s help or advice on various issues, and he is always willing to lend a hand. He is known as one of our hardest-working drivers. In his free time, David enjoys fishing and off-roading.
David and his wife Sue reside in Rapid City, SD.
The South Dakota Trucking Association joins the Safety Management Council in congratulating David Schrier for being selected as the February 2025 Driver of the Month.
We offer high-quality, low-cost CDL training options in the South Dakota region that are available online from any device. Our curriculum is fully compliant with the current FMCSA ELDT Training standards, and we are a member in good standing of the Training Provider Registry as a Theory provider.
To learn about our fully-online, FMCSA-compliant CDL Theory program and how you can join our trainee to employee pipeline, call the SDTA office at 605-334-8871 or go to www.southdakotatrucking.com
MAY 8, 2025
SDTA Spring/Summer Executive Committee Meeting
10:00 a.m.
AmericInn Chamberlain, SD
MAY 8, 2025
SDTA Spring/Summer Board of Directors Meeting
1:00 p.m.
AmericInn Chamberlain, SD
MAY 8, 2025
Social Hour, Dinner and Calcutta for the Annual Cliff Tjaden Fishing Event
6:00 p.m.
AmericInn Chamberlain, SD
MAY 9, 2025
Annual Cliff Tjaden Fishing Event
7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Cedar Shore Marina Oacoma, SD
MAY 17, 2025
SD Truck Driving Championships
7:00 a.m.
Southeast Technical College Sioux Falls, SD
JUNE 5-8, 2025
Wheel Jam Truck Show
State Fairgrounds Huron, SD
JULY 10, 2025
SDTA East River Golf Event
9:00 a.m.
Brandon Golf Course Brandon, SD
AUGUST 20-23, 2025
National Truck Driving Championships Minneapolis, MN
CREATE PRO VISIONS GOVER NING LITI GATION FINANCING
BRINGING TRANSPARENCY TO THIRD - P ARTY LITIGA TION FINANCING
WHAT IS SB 1 75
SB 175 introduces critical safeguards to regulate third-party litigation financing, ensuring that lawsuits are based on justice not undisclosed business investments. Currently, outside investors often hedge funds, private financiers, or foreign entities fund lawsuits in exchange for a share of the settlement or judgment. Without transparency, businesses and individuals may be unknowingly litigating against hidden financial backers whose primary goal is profit, not fairness. SB 175 requires licensing, disclosure, and restrictions on financial control over lawsuits, ensuring South Dakota’s legal system remains fair, transparent, and free from outside interference
WHY IS SB 175 NECESSARY
• Prevents Undisclosed Lawsuit Funding – Currently, litigation financiers can secretly fund lawsuits without informing courts, juries, or defendants. This creates hidden conflicts of interest and incentivizes litigation for profit, rather than legitimate claims. SB 175 requires full disclosure of litigation financing agreements to ensure transparency in courtrooms.
• Stops Abusive Litigation Practices – Litigation financiers often prolong cases to increase settlement values, driving up legal expenses and insurance premiums for businesses and consumers alike. This forces businesses into unfair settlements to avoid excessive legal costs. SB 175 ensures financiers cannot manipulate legal strategies for financial gain.
• Limits Excessive Payouts to Litigation Financiers – Many financiers take a disproportionate share of settlements, sometimes leaving plaintiffs with far less than they deserve. SB 175 caps financier payouts at a reasonable percentage, ensuring that injured parties not outside investors are the primary beneficiaries of legal awards
• Protects Small Businesses from Predatory Lawsuits – Without regulation, third-party litigation financiers can target specific industries, funding frivolous lawsuits that pressure businesses into costly settlements. South Dakota’s small businesses and family-owned companies are particularly vulnerable. SB 175 prevents predatory legal funding practices that exploit businesses and drive up operational costs
• Prevents Foreign Influence in Lawsuits – SB 175 prohibits foreign entities of concern from secretly funding lawsuits in South Dakota, preventing potential legal manipulation by adversarial nations. Without this safeguard, foreign-backed financiers could weaponize litigation to target American industries, intellectual property, and economic stability.
• Requires Licensing & Accountability – SB 175 requires litigation financiers to be licensed and regulated, ensuring ethical business practices and preventing bad actors from using South Dakota courts as profit centers. Licensing will help track and prevent exploitation of plaintiffs and businesses alike
T HE BOTTOM LINE
SB 175 ensures that third-party litigation financing is transparent, regulated, and accountable. Without this bill, undisclosed financial backers will continue manipulating lawsuits for profit, driving up legal costs, and reducing fairness in our courts. South Dakota must protect its legal system, businesses, and consumers from the harmful effects of unchecked litigation financing.
Please vote YES on SB 175
Christine Vinatieri-Erickson – (605) 336-5377
Tim Dougherty
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2025 L EGISLATIVE R ECEPTION & S UNDAE B AR
The SDTA and SDADA’s Annual Legislative Reception and Sundae Bar took place on February 10th at the Ramkota Hotel in Pierre. It was a fantastic event, with Governor Larry Rhoden, Lt. Governor Tony Venhuizen, Attorney General Marty Jackley, and several of our state legislators in attendance. Many members of the SD Trucking and Auto Dealer Associations attended as well. Thank you to everyone who came and helped make this event a success!
Transportation Funding Talks Take Shape This Year
The new Congress will heavily influence transportation legislation in 2025. Fleets have an opportunity to voice their needs as the next major transportation funding bill takes shape.
Jeremy Wolfe| Senior Reporter | FleetOwner
T he Republican sweep across both wings of Congress means that the party’s priorities will have significant influence on new legislation and federal budgeting for the next four years. These bills are not likely to affect carriers within 12 months— but in 2025, fleets will witness and participate in debates over funding bills and economic policies.
It is a crucial time for carriers to make their concerns known. The products of these debates will affect the transportation industry for several years. The most prominent debate going into 2025 is renewed transportation funding.
“The new infrastructure bill has to be formulated by the Congress that will be taking shape in January,” David Heller, VP of government affairs for the Truckload Carriers Association, told FleetOwner. “You’re going to see more and more conversations in regard to what the next infrastructure bill looks like.”
Transportation Funding Talks Begin
This year, lawmakers will ramp up discussions on the next major funding bill for surface transportation infrastructure. The discussions are an opportunity for the trucking industry to voice its concerns and infrastructure needs.
The last major funding measure, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act published in 2021, went far beyond the business-as-usual reauthorization to fund highways, bridges, and roads. Also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, IIJA included historic provisions for surface transportation, drinking water, electric vehicle infrastructure, and more— amounting up to $1.2 trillion. IIJA is set to expire in September 2026.
Republican Congressional members often voted against increasing broad infrastructure funding in recent years, but support for specifically surface transportation infrastructure is still a major Republican infrastructure principle.
Well-maintained highways are essential for smooth, cost-effective fleet operations. As lawmakers begin negotiations, trucking organizations will be key vocal advocates for carriers’ interests in 2025. Programs like the Calls on Washington facilitated by TCA and the American Trucking Associations present an opportunity for carriers to share their thoughts on legislation.
Truck Parking
Truck parking funding will be a top issue for industry associations as they advocate for trucking in the next funding bill.
Parking availability was one of the most pressing issues for carriers and drivers in 2024, according to ATRI. Parking is also a regulatory priority for associations like ATA and TCA. While IIJA included no direct funding for truck parking, grant programs funded by the bill contributed millions of dollars to building additional parking spaces in 2024 alone.
Truck parking bills often receive support from both political parties, making the issue more likely to receive funding than other spending measures.
“It has wide bipartisan support and will get included into the next highway reauthorization bill,” TCA’s Heller said.
Alternatives to Fuel Taxes
Another major Republican infrastructure principle is to find alternative revenue streams for the Highway Trust Fund.
The vast majority of the Highway Trust Fund’s cash comes from gas and diesel taxes. The population of zero-emission vehicles is growing nationwide, and trucks continue to improve their fuel efficiency, weakening fossil fuels’ dominance in transportation.
The Congressional Budget Office projects the Highway Trust Fund’s spending will exceed its revenue by billions of dollars in only a few years. Some lawmakers have proposed new types of fuel-agnostic fees to ensure EVs contribute to highway funding.
“The fuel tax is there and has generated low administrative costs for generations. But the reality is that, because our trucks and passenger vehicles are going farther on less fuel than ever before, they’re paying less at the pump,” Heller said. “The conversation is going to transition into how we develop a highway trust fund that can be sustainable and support the infrastructure needs of this country.”
Reprinted from FleetOwner.
FINANCING YOUR MOST IMPORTANT ASSETS
Written by Michelle Wells, SDTA’s Member Manager
I am genuinely grateful for the opportunity to participate in the “See For Yourself” program at the 2025 Accelerate Clean Fuels Conference, generously sponsored by MEG Corp. A special thank you to the SD Soybean Research & Promotion Council for sponsoring my attendance.
This experience allowed me to gain valuable insights into how biodiesel is making a significant impact across various sectors of the industry.
My journey began with an essential session on “Intro to Biodiesel, Renewable Diesel, and Sustainable Aviation Fuel.” I entered the conference with minimal knowledge, but this session equipped me with the foundational information I needed.
an ambitious goal to reduce its petroleum supply to only 3% of the fuel available to consumers by 2040. While South Dakota will not adopt the same approach, it’s clear California has a vision.
The session that stood out to me the most was titled “Detour Ahead? New Emissions Regulations Driving OEM Product Development.” In
Each day was packed with informative sessions. SDTA has previously invited Hoon Ge, the founder of MEG Corp, to share his expertise at our annual convention, and I can confidently say he is a wealth of knowledge on biodiesel. This time, I had the privilege of attending a session led by his son, Justin Ge. Justin’s presentation captivated me as it focused on critical aspects of storage, handling, and cold weather operability. As the manager of the fuel testing lab, he conducts rigorous tests to ensure fuel quality and swiftly identifies any performance issues, such as filter plugging. Moreover, Justin serves as a vital resource for fuel suppliers, fleet managers, and diesel end users, addressing their questions on diesel, biodiesel, fuel storage, handling best practices, and compliance with state mandates through the Diesel Helpline.
There is no doubt that California is taking the lead in the clean fuels sector. The state has set
this session, I discovered Optimus Technologies, which I previously didn’t know existed in the trucking industry. It was eye-opening to learn about the innovative products shaping our future in transportation.
I am thankful for the opportunity to attend this conference and gain valuable insights into the advancements in clean fuels. I extend my appreciation to the SD Soybean Checkoff for their support in making this possible.
Lisa Pedderson, MEG Corp.; Eric Lawson, MEG Corp; David Struck, Chairman SD Soybean Research & Promotion Council; Michelle Wells, SDTA; Tom Ostrem, United Soybean Board; Pamela & Bruce Vollan, Vollan Oil; Dan Rausch, Stern Co.; Troy Weig, Sioux Valley Cooperative, Watertown; Trevor Reinesch, Stern Co.
SDTA Gearing Up for the 46th Annual South Dakota Truck Driving Championships
The South Dakota Truck Driving Championships (SD TDCs) is an annual competition for professional truck drivers hosted by the South Dakota Trucking Association. This year marks the 46th anniversary of the SD TDCs.
This competition serves as an excellent way to promote safety within the industry. To compete, drivers must be accident-free for at least one year prior to the event. Competitors are divided into nine classes: straight truck, flatbed, three-axle, four-axle, five-axle, tank, twin trailer, sleeper berth, and step van.
Each driver has the opportunity to showcase their driving and inspection skills, knowledge, and professionalism through a series of tests. Participants must complete a written exam, a pre-trip inspection, and a skills test on a driving course. Winners from each class will advance to compete in the American Trucking Association’s National Truck Driving Championships (NTDCs), which will be held in Minneapolis, MN, on August 20-23, 2025.
The NTDCs, along with state-level competitions like the SD TDCs, are recognized as some of the largest and most ef-
fective safety programs in the industry. These annual events inspire tens of thousands of drivers to operate accident-free for the chance to compete.
Competing drivers experience a sense of pride and achievement, which boosts driver morale and fosters positive attitudes among employees. Companies can take pride in their drivers’ accomplishments, recognizing their excellence both on and off the road. This recognition helps to build strong relationships between the company and its drivers, ultimately leading to better driver retention.
As a family-oriented event, the SD TDCs promotes truck driving as a rewarding career and presents a positive image of truck drivers and the trucking industry. It’s also an enjoyable experience that fosters company pride, as supporters come to cheer for the drivers.
When asked, professional drivers will tell you that they are drawn to championships by the spirit of competition as well as the prestige of being named the best of the best. Some drivers have described it as being like the Olympics, in that they come to win but also enjoy the camaraderie and excitement.
DRIVER TESTIMONIALS
Dan Norgaard, Professional Truck Driver
Old Dominion Freight Line, Watertown, SD
My first time competing at the South Dakota Truck Diving Championships was in 1992. I look forward to every May, when we meet to show off our best skills. I have been fortunate enough to win my class and go on to compete at National competitions several times. I have competed with the best of the best and have become lifelong friends with my fellow competitors.
Everyone is so willing to share their success and ways to improve your driving pre-trip or testing scores. I have gained so much knowledge and professionalism from the competitions that have made me a better driver out on the road. That’s where the real test is performed.
I try to get others to compete at the South Dakota Truck Driving Championships, as I believe it improves the general public’s image of truck drivers. I would encourage anyone who would like to compete to sign up. We are all there to support one another and to make the highways a little safer every day. If your score isn’t as high as you wanted, keep coming back, ask questions, keep studying, and next year will be better.
Mike Whitehead, Professional Truck Driver
FedEx Freight, Inc., Lennox, SD
Mike Whitehead, driver for FedEx Freight, Inc., has been competing in the SD Truck Driving Championships since 2013. He has competed sixteen times at the SD TDC’s as well as thirteen times at the National TDC’s.
“I’d tell any newcomers that have never done the truck driving championships to give it a try! It’s challenging because you’ve got to prepare for taking the written test, completing a pre-trip inspection, and driving the skills course. But it will make you a better driver in the end!”
Gary Schmidt, Professional Truck Driver
Cliff Viessman, Inc., Gary, SD
Gary Schmidt has been driving for Cliff Viessman, Inc., since 1991. He started to compete in the SD TDCs in 1999, but wishes he had started earlier.
“It gives him a new perspective on safety and safe driving. I’m always aware I must maintain eligibility if I want to compete in this event. I’ve learned a lot about the industry as I prepare myself for the written test each year.”
He too has met many friends over the years, including ATA President Chris Spear, pictured with Gary.
Jeff Eschen, Professional Truck Driver K&J Trucking, Inc., Sioux Falls, SD
Jeff Eschen has been a professional truck driver for 21 years, 13 of which have been with K&J Trucking, Inc., Sioux Falls. He has competed in the SD Truck Driving Championships four times, qualifying for the National Truck Driving Championships twice.
Jeff says, “My favorite part of the Truck Driving Championships is the pre-trip inspection. I like finding new defects. It’s a challenge. I truly enjoy the friendships I have made and the camaraderie among the competitors.”
Jeff encourages new drivers to challenge themselves and join in on the fun by participating in this year’s event. Once you compete, typically you’re hooked! Check it out!
Jeremy Senger, Professional Truck Driver FedEx Freight, Inc., Rapid City, SD
Jeremy Senger has been a professional truck driver for 23 years, 11 of which have been with FedEx Freight, Inc., Rapid City. He has qualified for the National competition three out of his four times competing in South Dakota.
“I compete because I enjoy it. My favorite part is the pre-trip inspections. I like looking for the hidden defects that are planted. It is a challenge!”
“I also enjoy the friendships that I have made, both at state and national competitions. If you haven’t tried it, you should.”
For more information on driver registration, sponsorship, or volunteering at the event, please go to https://southdakotatrucking.com/Events, call the SDTA office at 605-334-8871, or email michelle@southdakotatrucking.com.
46TH ANNUAL SD TRUCK DRIVING CHAMPIONSHIPS
46TH ANNUAL SD TRUCK DRIVING CHAMPIONSHIPS
SOUTHEAST TECHNICAL COLLEGE, SIOUX FALLS, SD
SOUTHEAST TECHNICAL COLLEGE, SIOUX FALLS, SD
SATURDAY, MAY 17, 2025
SATURDAY, MAY 17, 2025
Schedule of Events
Schedule of Events
SATURDAY, MAY 17
SATURDAY, MAY 17
a.m.
a.m.
7:00-7:30 a.m. Driver Registration
7:00-7:30 a.m. Driver Registration
Drivers not registered by 7:30 a.m. docked 25 Points for failure to follow instructions
Drivers not registered by 7:30 a.m. docked 25 Points for failure to follow instructions
7:00-7:30 a.m. Breakfast
7:00-7:30 a.m. Breakfast
7:30-8:30 a.m. Welcome & Driver Orientation
7:30-8:30 a.m. Welcome & Driver Orientation
8:30-9:30 a.m. Written Exam
8:30-9:30 a.m. Written Exam
8:30-9:15 a.m.
8:30-9:15 a.m. Course Problem Stewards & Captains Walk Through With Instructions
Course Problem Stewards & Captains Walk Through With Instructions * All Course Stewards / Captains Must Be Present
* All Course Stewards / Captains Must Be Present
9:15 - 9:30 Course Problem Stewards / Captains Explain Responsibilities To Volunteers
9:15 - 9:30 Course Problem Stewards / Captains Explain Responsibilities To Volunteers
9:30 - 10:00 Course Walk Through For Drivers In All Classes
9:30 - 10:00 Course Walk Through For Drivers In All Classes
10:00 a.m.
Driving Competition And Pre-Trip Inspections Begins
10:00 a.m. Driving Competition And Pre-Trip Inspections Begins
p.m.
p.m.
6:00 p.m.
Social Hour - Cash Bar
6:00 p.m. Social Hour - Cash Bar
Ramkota Hotel - Washington Room (3200 W Maple Street, Sioux Falls)
Ramkota Hotel - Washington Room (3200 W Maple Street, Sioux Falls)
7:00 p.m.
Awards Banquet
7:00 p.m. Awards Banquet
Ramkota Hotel - Washington Room
Ramkota Hotel - Washington Room
SUNDAY, MAY 18
SUNDAY, MAY 18
a.m.
a.m.
8:00
Champions Club Breakfast For All 2025 and past SD TDC Class Champions
8:00 Champions Club Breakfast For All 2025 and past SD TDC Class Champions
Ramkota Hotel, Maple Room (3200 W Maple Street, Sioux Falls)
Ramkota Hotel, Maple Room (3200 W Maple Street, Sioux Falls)
ENTRY FEES ARE DUE BY APRIL 30, 2025 NO REFUNDS AFTER 4/30/25
ENTRY FEES ARE DUE BY APRIL 30, 2025 NO REFUNDS AFTER 4/30/25
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TDC Banquet tickets are available for $75.
Condolences
Brenda Kay (DeJong) Bultsma was born on July 10, 1958 to Case and Edith (Brumbaugh) DeJong and passed away on February 1, 2025 surrounded by her family.
Brenda grew up on the family farm outside of Platte, SD along with her five brothers and sisters. She was active in 4-H and was a Boom’s Drive In alumna. Brenda graduated from Platte High School in 1976 and attended South Dakota State University before returning to Platte.
Brenda and David Bultsma were married on June 10, 1977. With the arrival of their son, Joshua, in 1979, Brenda’s life’s focus became clear. She was committed to staying home with her children and so she began to provide child care for other families. Bridget and Jarrod were added to the family in 1981 and 1987. There was never anything more important than family.
Nurturing and guiding children became Brenda’s true calling and passion as she honed her skills and knowledge of what young children need. Over the years, she took countless child development and early education online classes to develop the skills she needed to be the professional she was. She became a certified Early Childhood Educator and a licensed day care provider. Some called her a “child whisperer” because she had a way of bringing out a child’s best qualities while helping them develop the skills that lead to a happy, productive life: kindness, curiosity, love of learning, sharing.
Brenda was multifaceted. While she developed her day care and then preschool services, she also was an active mother. She taught Sunday School, brought treats for school, was a 4-H leader, served on community and church committees. Brenda thoughtfully cared for her parents and Dave’s parents as they aged and their health declined, providing meals, mowing their lawns, and driving them to appointments. As a neighbor, she was the one who had a meal to take to someone who had been in the hospital, someone who had a baby, someone who experienced a tragedy in the family. She was tender, and she was a fierce advocate for her family, the children she cared for, and the things that mattered to her.
Brenda gave back to her community in big and small ways. She was instrumental in bringing a ‘Governor’s House’ to Platte, which opened as a community daycare and preschool. She dedicated herself fully to getting Bright Beginnings Learning Center built, opened, and operating. She shoveled the walks in the morning, greeted children with warmth, provided her classic home-made meals at noon, taught preschool in the afternoon, and stayed until the last child was picked up.
She had a compassionate heart which allowed her to see a need; and she had a servant’s commitment to meeting needs. When Josh went to Iraq in 2004, she helped organize a support group for other families with deployed soldiers. The group wrote letters, sent care packages, and offered each other support during this anxious time. Eleven years later, she offered the same support when Jarrod deployed to Kuwait. She supported Jarrod’s wife who was home with a toddler and a baby by loading up the pick-up with a grandchild or two from Platte, a box of rolls from the bakery and drove to Wessington Springs to help in whatever way was needed.
Brenda always knew how to make lemonade out of lemons. Following her cancer diagnosis in 1995, she became a strong advocate for raising money for cancer research and awareness. We rallied for many years to walk and run a booth for Relay for Life. She faced both cancer and heart failure with grit and determination, continuing to care for children throughout her treatments. After she was diagnosed with ALS in 2021, she continued to provide child care and early education even while her body was failing her. Even simple tasks required immense energy.
Brenda and Dave were always a team, but never more so than in navigating the ALS journey. From her first symptoms to her diagnosis in 2021 and throughout the next years, Dave and Brenda worked closely together to make decisions about her care. Brenda did everything she could as long as she could, but the disease was ruthless. Dave took the “in sickness and in health” marriage vow and showed us what that really means. His precise, steady care for Brenda allowed her to remain home which was her goal.
Continued from Page 25.
Brenda was curious, fun-loving, and well-informed. She was a natural when it came to implementing technology. As her ability to talk went away, she received an ‘Eye-Speak’ device, which allowed her to communicate by typing messages with her eyes. She, Lois, Dave, and others worked together to maximize its use. This ability to continue to communicate made life so much richer for her and those around her. Early in her illness, she “banked” words and phrases in the hope that her eye-speak device would be able to use her voice. While that didn’t work quite as well as hoped, it was a delight to hear an occasional word or phrase in Brenda’s own voice. She kept her head up and supported those who were grieving her steady losses. One unexpected glimmer, which became her calling card, was the word “laughing.” When she typed in the word “laughing,” a banked recording of Brenda and Lois laughing would come up. When we would be saying goodbye after a visit or when tears came, she would type in “laughing” and the mood was lifted.
Brenda’s love for her family has never been in doubt. It was the constant from beginning to end and always. She is survived by her husband of over 47 years, Dave Bultsma; three children Joshua (Julie) Bultsma - Coy, Rory, Riata, Tayten and Rozi; Bridget (Jared) Bender - Hayes; and Jarrod (Jacki) Bultsma - Dawson, Hayden and Austen.
NAME:
Brenda’s surviving siblings are Lloyd DeJong, Linda Pranger, Mary DeJong (Tate Profilet), Lyle (Sandy) DeJong, and Lois (Bob) Ziebol. She is also survived by her in-laws: Cheryl Reed, Beverly Antonsen, Jan Urban, Barb (Todd) Powell, Bill (Chandel) Bultsma, and Patricia (Bill) Frei; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and all the children she taught and cared for over the years.
She was welcomed into heaven by her parents Case and Edith DeJong and parents-in-law Ted and Carol Bultsma, sister-inlaw Judy DeJong, and brothers-in-law Bill Pranger, Ray Urban, Kevin Antonsen and many other beloved family members.
ALS took so much from Brenda but never her focus on how to take the journey with grace, humor and kindness. Her hospice care givers, community helpers and family all felt her love. In the end she was condensed to her essence: a wise soul and a loving heart.
She was a remarkable woman who did remarkable things and we are so glad she is able to be whole in body and spirit once again.
The family is so grateful for the wonderful hospice assistants and community volunteers, friends, relatives and neighbors who helped in so many ways. Your kindness will always be remembered.
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DOT Secretary Duffy Outlines Highway Bill Priorities
Permitting Overhaul, Emerging Technologies Top List
Eugene Mulero | Senior Reporter | Transport Topics
The nation’s top transportation official during a recent industry conference appeared to offer guidance for federal policymakers to follow when planning federal highway policy updates during this session of Congress.
At the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials conference in Washington on Feb. 5, Secretary Sean Duffy outlined various policy and funding proposals meant to steer Congress’ consideration of upcoming surface transportation legislation.
House and Senate transportation committees are on the clock to draft and advance comprehensive highway legislation; federal authority for certain highway programs expires in the fall of 2026.
Duffy specified among Trump administration priorities a reform of environmental permitting regulations vital to construction projects, adoption of emerging technologies designed to improve safety and efficiency, and creation of a wide-ranging cost-savings framework.
“Everyone wants their projects to be funded and fast-tracked and so I think there’s a real understanding right now in Congress that it’s taking way too long. And that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do environmental studies. And that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t go through a permitting process, but we can’t have it take as long as it’s taking right now,” Duffy said during the AASHTO forum.
“So I think there’s a real appetite on the Hill to help us streamline this permitting process to move our projects far more quickly.”
The secretary also expressed support for allowing states to set their own agendas.
“I also think we have to rethink the federal-state partnership. I don’t know that it’s been working so well,” Duffy said. “I think that you guys know how to do your jobs, and I think we should rethink the way we’re doing business together by giving you all a lot more autonomy, a lot more authority, a lot more freedom to do the projects that you know are important in your communities.”
Last month, AASHTO praised Duffy’s Senate confirmation to join President Donald Trump’s Cabinet. At the time, Jim Tymon, the group’s executive director, said, “With his experience navigating the political landscape as a member of Congress, Secretary Duffy will be a valuable partner to state
Duffy, pictured before a Senate committee in January, told AASHTO members he thinks USDOT can give state transportation departments more autonomy and authority. (Susan Walsh/Associated Press)
departments of transportation in building a world-class transportation system that benefits all Americans. From reauthorizing the next federal surface transportation bill to enhancing safety, mobility and quality of life in communities across the country, AASHTO members are eager to collaborate with the Trump administration and Congress to deliver an effective and efficient transportation network for generations to come.”
On Capitol Hill, Republican leaders have pointed to the potential for introducing later this year a version of a longterm highway bill. Members of the transportation committees intend to adopt Trump’s regulatory streamlining agenda and authorize technological advancements and energy-efficiency initiatives. For Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chairwoman of the Environment and Public Works Committee, improving safety throughout mobility corridors will be among her primary objectives. “Safety first, whether it’s how we rebuild our highways … what we’re doing during construction; the materials that we use. Are we building for the cars of the future,” she noted at the AASHTO conference the day before Duffy’s address.
“I am confident that under the secretary’s leadership, we can improve America’s infrastructure by focusing our investments on core projects like roads and bridges, streamlining project delivery, and getting the department back to the fundamental missions of federal transportation programs — moving people and goods safely and efficiently,” Rep. Sam Graves (R-Mo.), the panel’s chairman, said last month. “President Trump is a builder and a strong supporter of infrastructure, and I look forward to working closely with Secretary Duffy to help carry out the president’s vision for the nation’s transportation network as we begin efforts to craft the next surface transportation bill.”
Reprinted from Transport Topics.
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THE NATION’S TOP TRUCK BOTTLENECKS 2025
Since 2002, the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) has collected and processed truck GPS data in support of the U.S. Department of Transportation Freight Mobility Initiative.
Utilizing an extensive database of freight truck GPS data, ATRI develops and monitors a series of key performance measures on the nation’s freight transportation system. Among its many GPS analyses, ATRI converts its truck GPS dataset into an ongoing truck bottleneck analysis that is used to quantify the impact of traffic congestion on truck-borne freight at over 325 specific locations. While other outside analyses may identify congested corridors, no dataset available today specifically identifies granular chokepoints in the nation’s truck freight transportation system.
Measuring the performance of freight movement across our nation’s highways is critical to understanding where and at what level investments should be made. The information provided through this research empowers decision-making in both the private and public sectors by helping stakeholders better understand how congestion and delays constrain mobility on the U.S. highway transportation system. ATRI’s annual bottleneck list provides a clear roadmap for reducing supply chain impediments and guiding investment decisions as Congress begins to focus attention on our country’s next transportation investment reauthorization bill.
ATRI’s bottleneck analysis incorporates and synthesizes several unique components, including a massive database of truck GPS data at freight-significant locations throughout the U.S., and a speed/ volume algorithm that quantifies the impact of congestion on truck-based freight. In addition, the annual reports provide a chronological repository of mobility profiles, allowing congestion changes to be assessed over time. This allows both transportation analysts and planners to conduct performance benchmarking and identify influential factors contributing to congestion and the requisite consequences on freight mobility.
2025 TOP TRUCK BOTTLENECKS
1 Fort Lee, NJ: I-95 at SR 4
2 Chicago, IL: I-294 at I-290/I-88
3 Houston, TX: I-45 at I-69/US 59
4 Atlanta, GA: I-285 at I-85 (North)
5 Nashville, TN: I-24/I-40 at I-440 (East)
6 Atlanta, GA: I-75 at I-285 (North)
7 Los Angeles, CA: SR 60 at SR 57
8 Cincinnati, OH: I-71 at I-75
9 Houston, TX: I-10 at I-45
10 Atlanta, GA: I-20 at I-285 (West)
11 Hartford, CT: I-84 at I-91
12 McDonough, GA: I-75
13 Dallas, TX: I-45 at I-30
14 Atlanta, GA: I-20 at I-285 (East)
15 Chicago, IL: I-290 at I-90/I-94
16 Nashville, TN: I-40 at I-65 (East)
17 Indianapolis, IN: I-65 at I-70 (North)
18 Los Angeles, CA: I-710 at I-105
19 Washington, DC: I-495 (West Side)
20 Ontario, CA: I-10 at I-15
21 Chicago, IL: I-55
22 Houston, TX: I-45 at I-610 (North)
23 Chicago, IL: I-80 at I-94
24 Baton Rouge, LA: I-10 at I-110
25 Providence, RI: I-95 at I-195
26 Denver, CO: I-70 at I-25
27 Portland, OR: I-5 at I-84
28 Chattanooga, TN: I-75 at I-24
29 Atlanta, GA: I-285 at SR 400
30 Houston, TX: I-10 at I-610 (West)
31 Portland, OR: I-5 at Columbia River
32 Detroit, MI: I-94 at I-75
33 Indianapolis, IN: I-65 at I-70 (South)
34 Philadelphia, PA: I-76 at I-676
35 Brooklyn, NY: I-278 at Belt Parkway
36 Charlotte, NC: I-77 near Lake Norman
37 Chicago, IL: I-90 at I-94 (North)
38 Atlanta, GA: I-20 at I-75/I-85
39 Norwalk, CT: I-95
40 Corona, CA: I-15 at SR 91
41 Greenville, SC: I-85 at I-385
42 Stamford, CT: I-95
Infrastructure Investment Makes Impact in Chicago
Once the #1 truck bottleneck in the country for three years in a row, Chicago's newly-constructed Byrne Interchange saw rush hour truck speeds improve by nearly 25 percent once construction was completed.
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