Our 2006 Healthy Birth Conference which took place on October 13th & 14th in Watertown was a huge success on many different levels.
• Two candidates for governor and 5 legislative candidates attended.
• Nearly $1000 was raised through conference fees, donations, fundraisers & book sales.
• Approximately 50 adults and 35 children took part in the conference. Participants were able to fellowship with and learn from the 4 inspiring and informative speakers and each other. Everyone went home with at least one door prize and hopefully the tools needed to better the lives of their families.

Dr. Michael Stahl shared with us how we can improve our health by what we eat and drink, and how we breathe, exercise, and think. His information on the power of positive thinking is especially important for us as we prepare to introduce legislation this year. During breaks Dr. Stahl and his wife Sue offered free nervous system screenings.

Judy Jones explained the many reasons families choose to have their babies at home, and some natural alternatives to common complaints &
problems in pregnancy.

Tammi Chaney provided wonderful information on the benefits of doulas in creating a positive birth experience.

Tammy Weis, who ran for the State Senate in District 15, spoke of her many varied birth experiences which led her to support safe home birth options for South Dakota families. She also told us about her work at Destiny Family Medical Clinic in Sioux Falls which strives to treat the whole person – mind, body, and spirit.

Chair, Mary Nelson, led a discussion on the midwifery legislation our members have been working on with Roger Hunt. This was followed by our annual meeting where Ronda Kvigne & Tammi Chaney were elected as new board members. Judy Jones was reelected to the board and Mary was reelected as chair for her final 2-year term.