Governor Proclaims 'Rosie Smith Day' at Glacial Lakes & Prairies Tourism Annual Meeting

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - The Glacial Lakes & Prairies Tourism Association (GLPTA) held its Annual Meeting on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at The Goss Opera House in Watertown, where the association celebrated its accomplishments and future initiatives while honoring Executive Director Rosie Smith.

The highlight of the day was an official proclamation from Governor Larry Rhoden, declaring October 29, 2025, as Rosie Smith Day across the state of South Dakota. The recognition honors Smith's dedicated 25 years of leadership and service to the region’s tourism industry. GLPTA Past President Anjelica Uthe of Visit Watertown presented the proclamation on behalf of the Governor’s Office and the GLPTA Board of Directors.

Uthe welcomed tourism professionals, partners, and community members from across South Dakota's northeast region. The morning’s agenda was designed to foster collaboration and provide industry insights. Attendees participated in a panel discussion featuring various tourism and hospitality leaders, received updates from Smith and Kirk Holstein, Senior Director of Industry Relations, Development & Research for Travel South Dakota, and took a guided tour of the historic Goss Opera House.

In her remarks, Smith expressed her gratitude for the recognition and highlighted the crucial importance of collaboration in strengthening regional tourism. She also took the opportunity to recognize Executive Assistant Jody Williamson for her 15 years of service to the GLPTA.

The Glacial Lakes & Prairies Tourism Association is committed to promoting the natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and welcoming communities of the northeast region of South Dakota. The organization works to enhance visitor experiences and drive economic impact through marketing, partnerships, and advocacy.

GLPTA invites businesses and organizations within the region to become members to help shape the future of tourism in the Glacial Lakes & Prairies area. Membership offers opportunities to collaborate, promote local attractions, and stay informed about marketing initiatives.

To learn more or get involved, interested parties can visit www.sdglaciallakes.com.

Glacial Lakes & Prairies Tourism Association 2025–2026 Board of Directors

·         Val Rausch, President – Abbey of the Hills (Marvin)

·         Ali Jo Tonsfeldt, Vice President – Fort Sisseton State Park (Lake City)

·         Anjelica Uthe, Past President – Visit Watertown

·         Beverly Noyes-Hanson, Treasurer – Double Tree Gallery (Sisseton)

·         Kerri Vilhauer, Board Member – Children’s Museum of South Dakota (Brookings)

·         Laura Schoen Carbonneau, Board Member – Visit Brookings

·         Casey Weismantel, Board Member – Aberdeen Convention & Visitors Bureau

·         Jennessa Jandel, Board Member – City of Redfield

·         Brianna Johnson, Board Member – Huron Chamber & Visitors Bureau

·         Alissa Battest, Board Member – The Hitching Post (Aberdeen)

·         Jeny Koplin, Board Member – Schmidt’s Landing (Big Stone City)

·         Cyrus Mahmoodi, Board Member – Double P Ranch (Clark)