Art LaCroix was Rapid City’s best mayor, ever. Always creative, always doing what some called “impossible.” Thanks to him we have a Civic Center, city wide bike path, a modern airport.

He received a battlefield commission during the Battle of the Bulge. His achievements were a source of pride for all of us.

During a hearing of an advisory committee to the Civil Rights Commission he told a story that none of us had heard.

“I walked up the steps into the lobby of the Alex Johnson hotel. I was still in uniform, and was feeling proud. I was told, ‘We do not serve Indians here. Please leave.’ Now I am welcome everywhere in Rapid City.”

As a former US Army I captain I cannot believe that happened in our town, to a man in the uniform of an Officer of the United States!!??

Art’s nephew Lloyd LaCroix is running for City Council and faces some of the same prejudice. Lloyd has an opponent who defends the racist statements made by Councilman Bill Clayton.

I’m urging all my friends to show that Rapid City rejects such sorry politics and elect the best candidate for the job, Lloyd LaCroix.